The Middle of Culture

Show Notes:- Spiritbox concert recap: Peter attended a standout show in Salt Lake City, noting the energy, mixed-gender crowd, and explosive live performance that solidifies Spiritbox's rising status in metal.- Graduation celebrations: Aubrey graduated from the University of Utah; Peter recounts the efficient ceremony and celebratory Rodizio Grill outing.- TTRPG return: Peter is back to GMing, running Keys from the Golden Vault for his old group, reflecting on the prep and joy of returning to the table.Reading updates:- Peter: The Artist's Way to rekindle creative energy.- Eden: Finished volume 6 of Adachi and Shimamura, started reading Late Bloomer (romantic, flower-farm drama with "sexy conflict").Other updates:- Free Comic Book Day: Eden helped run the busiest, most successful FCBD at the comic shop yet, featuring coffee, custom buttons, and signings by Phil Hester and Eric Gapster.- Infinity Nikki patch 1.5 chaos: Eden breaks down the game's disastrous update—retcons, glitches, co-op flops, disappearing currency, and a literal girlcott.- Girls Frontline 2: Exilium: Eden praises the writing in this tactical gacha game while lamenting its horny robot girl aesthetic.Marvel's Thunderbolts* (spoiler-free and spoiler-filled discussion):- Florence Pugh carries the film with emotional depth.- Emphasis on connection and community over brute force.- The ending subverts typical MCU punch-fests.- Surprises and smart character arcs elevate it above recent Marvel fare.2003's Hulk retrospective:- Hulk as a metaphor for trauma and abuse—possibly the most emotionally resonant portrayal of the character.- Praise for Jennifer Connelly and Sam Elliott.- Visual style mixing comic book panels and split screens—ambitious if inconsistent.- Talbot's goofy subplot and memorable death scene.- Mixed feelings on the CGI Hulk's look but appreciation for its bold emotional scope.Pop Culture Quick Hits:- Jeremy Renner's lowball pay offer and the uncertain future of Hawkeye Season 2.- Reactions to the Murderbot trailer and miscasting concerns.- Hype (and tempered expectations) for Fantastic Four and the future of the MCU.Join us in another two weeks for more great pop-culture discussion and exploration. Reach out at feedback@themiddleofculture.com and we'll see you then!

What We've Been Up ToPeter's Update: - Recovering from a cold - Saw his wife Elissa perform as Mary Poppins in local theater - Unable to watch planned content like Andor and Daredevil Born Again - Finished playing Avowed, started Eternal Strands but finding limited character progression - Considering returning to Dragon Age: The Veilguard and excited about Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion RemasteredEden's Update: - Preparing for Free Comic Book Day at their comic shop - Working with local artists Phil Hester and Eric Gapster who will be signing - Special coffee brew called "Daydreams" and beer samples planned for the event - Recently visited House on the Rock in Wisconsin, describing it as a fascinating collection of oddities created by an eccentric collectorGaming Corner- Peter discusses his frustrations with Eternal Strands' limited character progression despite enjoying the gameplay- Eden is playing Claire Obscure Expedition 33, describing it as "Super Mario RPG's combat with very slick French production value"- Both agree Oblivion is worth revisiting, with Eden calling it "the best Elder Scrolls game"- Discussion of Oblivion's unique development quirks, including voice actors recording lines alphabetically rather than by sceneMusic Highlights- Peter recommends several new metal releases: - Dormant Ordeal - Tooth and Nail - Kardashev - Alunea - Tribunal - In Penitence and Ruin - Conan - Violence Dimension - Structure - HeritageBracket Tournament: Disney vs. Marvel vs. Star Wars vs. Muppets- We conduct a bracket tournament comparing properties from these four franchises- Notable matchups include The Incredibles vs. Muppet Christmas Carol and Iron Man vs. The Great Muppet Caper- The Muppet Christmas Carol ultimately emerges as the champion- Discussion of what makes the Muppet movies so special, particularly Michael Caine's serious performance alongside MuppetsComing Up Next- In two weeks: Special episode reviewing Ang Lee's Hulk (2003) starring Eric Bana- Peter has never seen it, while Eden maintains it's "still the best version of the Hulk"

Catching Up:• Peter shares a laid-back spring break filled with Avowed, a vasectomy, and home recovery. He praises the game's gray morality and engaging writing.• Eden talks about buying a Boox Palma (a minimalist e-reader) to curb phone addiction, reading five books in a week, and recommends the Practice Perfect romance series by Carson Tate.Tech Dalliances:• Both hosts talk about recent tech indulgences.• Eden raves about the Boox Palma as a life-improving gadget for focused reading.• Peter details his journey with the Ayn Odin 2 Portal, a handheld Android gaming device. His dream of retro emulation quickly becomes a nightmare of BIOS files and sideloading drama.• The takeaway? Sometimes it's better to just play your modern Steam backlog.Comics Corner:• Eden shares thoughts on DC's new Absolute line and its reimaginings of classic characters:• Absolute Wonder Woman is a standout.• Absolute Batman explores a working-class Bruce Wayne.• Absolute Martian Manhunter earns high praise for reinventing a character Eden never cared about.• A rant about Hush 2 and a Harley Quinn scratch-and-sniff fart fetish comic provides comic book industry absurdity.Main Topic -- Andor Episodes 1-3:Peter's First Watch:• Came in skeptical due to Star Wars burnout.• Found episode one a bit slow, episode two better, and episode three "hooked" him.• Admits it's the most he's enjoyed Star Wars since Return of the Jedi--possibly ever.Themes and Analysis:• Andor is a serious, adult take on Star Wars, unafraid to depict the empire as a metaphor for real-world fascism and police brutality.• The show avoids nostalgic gimmicks and "wink-wink" references in favor of grounded storytelling and rich characterization.Setting Praise:• Ferix, Cassian's home, is a fully realized working-class world with its own culture, social code, and resistance instincts.• The show's commitment to practical sets over digital environments makes it visually compelling.Character Deep Dives:• Cassian Andor's backstory reveals a lifetime of loss and injustice, priming him for future rebellion.• Marva's complex relationship with Cassian is explored through strong performances and layered writing.• Syril Karn is identified as a perfect example of authoritarian overreach--ambitious, small-minded, and terrifyingly familiar.Visual & Directorial Highlights:• Directed by Toby Haynes, the series is praised for its cinematography, lighting, and gripping action sequences.• The bell ringer, glove wall, and "droid that is stairs" moments are noted as the kind of world-building Star Wars does best.Looking Ahead:• Eden hints that the upcoming arcs in Andor get even better.• Season 2 will follow a similar structure: four arcs of three episodes, each set a year apart leading up to Rogue One.Closing Thoughts:• Peter is intrigued and excited to continue.• The hosts tease more Andor discussions ahead and wrap up with their usual mix of sarcasm, cultural critique, and sincere enthusiasm.

Welcome back!• Peter and Eden catch up on life, touching on:• Why modern society feels like a "hellscape."• Eden's unique take on a book club (it's really just a reason to meet at a bar and talk about books).• A foray into Bad Movie Bros, a community dedicated to watching and laughing at terrible films.• Highlights from their recent March Badness-- including absurd movies like The Core and the utterly bizarre 1980 film The Apple.Cultural Tangents & Side Discussions• The joys of intentionally bad movies and their ability to bring people together.• The absolute madness of The Apple, a musical disaster that features a literal rapture via a spectral Buick.• Eden's ongoing quest to master Riichi Mahjong-- and the realization that half of the players in Mahjong Soul are either total newbies or unbeatable experts.• Peter's thoughts on Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson and the daunting length of his books.• Tsunami Sea by Spiritbox and why Peter thinks they are the next big thing in metal.• Bioluminescence by Dawn of Ouroboros, blending prog, death, and jazz influences.• A surprising deep dive into Poppy, a genre-defying artist oscillating between pop, metal, and chaos.Main Segment: Desert Island Albums• How We Chose: Instead of just picking favorites, Peter and Eden each framed our choices as "Which five albums would I be most sad to never hear again?"• No Live Albums or Compilations Allowed!Our Picks:• Eden's Five:1. Koyaanisqatsi (Philip Glass) -- The haunting neoclassical score from the experimental documentary.2. Systems/Layers (Rachel's) -- A genre-defying, deeply personal post-classical album.3. F# A# ∞ (Godspeed You! Black Emperor) -- A post-rock masterpiece of apocalyptic soundscapes.4. The Harp of New Albion (Terry Riley) -- Experimental piano music with a tuning that bends reality.5. Promises (Pharoah Sanders & Floating Points) -- A jazz masterpiece that Eden describes as the finest piece of jazz music ever recorded.• Peter's Five:1. Through Silver and Blood (Neurosis) -- An impenetrable wall of sound and raw emotion.2. Terrasite (Cattle Decapitation) -- A brutal yet oddly cathartic death metal record.3. Slow Forever (Cobalt) -- A riff-heavy American black metal album that never gets old.4. Dreaming Neon Black (Nevermore) -- A concept album of insanity, grief, and power.5. Folium Limina (The Otolith) -- A haunting, violin-infused post-doom album that Peter has written three books to.Honorable Mentions:• Rush's Permanent Waves and Moving Pictures (though both hosts realized they could mentally replay these albums in full without ever hearing them again).• Mariner by Cult of Luna & Julie Christmas.• Catharsis by YOB.• Chopin's Opus 28 Preludes, specifically Amy Kobayashi's recording.Final Thoughts• Reflecting on how music shapes personal identity and memory.• The joy of rediscovering albums that remain impactful years later.• Eden's experience revisiting The Harp of New Albion and realizing its timeless brilliance.• Peter's increasing excitement for The Otolith and the music that fuels creativity.Thanks for listening and join us in two weeks for another fun episode!

Life Updates & Gaming AdventuresThe February blues hit hard as we commiserate about adulting struggles, work deadlines, and the never-ending battle against muddy paw printsEden champions Obsidian's Avowed as a triumph of weird fantasy and complex moral choices that puts other RPGs on noticePeter confesses he hasn't fallen under Avowed's spell yet but is intrigued by Eden's passionate defense of its uniquenessMusical JourneysPeter takes us into the melancholic melodies of Dawn of Solace and the powerful vocal performances in Lacuna Coil's latest releasesEden surprises everyone (including themselves) with an unexpected deep dive into 1960s Brazilian samba, featuring hidden gems from Tenorio Jr. and the Salambanso TrioLiterary ExplorationsEden savors the sweet cultural journey of A Bánh Mì for Two while struggling through the deliberately paced Cold War classic The Spy Who Came in from the ColdPeter connects the dots between Le Carré and Nick Harkaway's The Gone Away World, revealing literary legacies hiding in plain sight, and assures everyone he will, eventually, start Wind and TruthFeatured Topic: Akane Banashi - Where Tradition Meets AmbitionWe unpack the first three volumes of this captivating manga about Rakugo, the centuries-old Japanese art of storytelling. Akane Banashi masterfully transforms this traditional art form into a compelling underdog narrative with:The perfect blend of reverence for tradition and the fire of youthful ambitionCompetition that feels both high-stakes and surprisingly cozyCharacters who demonstrate that truly owning a story means finding your authentic voice within itA fascinating peek into an art form that feels both foreign and surprisingly universalTune in as Peter shares his perspective as a manga newcomer, and we both explore why this series about sitting alone on stage telling stories has us completely hooked!

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Middle of Culture! Your hosts, Peter and Eden, are here to dive into the world of pop culture, sci-fi, and everything in between. This week, we're braving the cold and tackling a highly recommended novella that's been on our TBR list for far too long.What we are checking out:Peter has been diving into some serious reading, tackling "The Lost Metal" from the Mistborn series and a nonfiction book on philosophyEden has been exploring new manga and video games, including finishing "Nichijou" and starting "Indiana Jones and the Great Circle"A deep dive into "Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes," a spiritual successor to the beloved Suikoden series, and its stunning HD 2D graphicsAll Systems RedWe both share our initial thoughts on "All Systems Red," agreeing that it's an enjoyable read but not necessarily a mind-blowing oneDiscussion on the book's cozy sci-fi reputation and appeal to fans of softer, quieter mediaWe dive into the book's exploration of personhood, autonomy, and the dehumanization of cyborgs and AIEden brings up the interesting dynamic between Murderbot and the augmented human, and the implications of respectability politicBoth hosts express curiosity about the broader sociopolitical context of the series and the motivations of the antagonistic groupSpeculation on how the TV adaptation will handle the casting and portrayal of Murderbot, especially regarding its degendered identity.Wrap-Up:Thank you for joining us on this journey through "All Systems Red." We hope you enjoyed our discussion and are as excited as we are to see how the Murderbot Diaries will be brought to life on screen. Stay tuned for our next episode, and as always, take care of yourselves!

Welcome back to The Middle of Culture. This week, we take a deep dive into the state of entertainment in 2025. From the bleak outlook of upcoming movies and TV to the rare gems in music and video games, we break down what we're anticipating with excitement and what we're bracing for in disappointment.Movies and TVMission Impossible: The Final Reckoning -- The only movie Peter is planning to see opening weekendSuperman: Legacy and Fantastic Four -- Will DC's latest reboot succeed? Will Marvel recover?Disney's live-action remakes (Lilo and Stitch, How to Train Your Dragon) -- Do we really need these?Just how bad will Tron: Ares suck, and why is it all going to be Jared Leto's fault?Daredevil Born Again -- The trailer has some promise, but will it deliver?GQuuuuuuX -- A bizarre Gundam reimagining that might be brilliant or a disasterGamingAvowed -- Will Obsidian continue its strong storytelling streak?Doom: The Dark Ages -- Medieval DOOM? Yes, pleaseClaro Obscure Expedition 33 -- A turn-based RPG with an eerie, unique premiseNintendo Switch 2 -- Worth it or just another console collecting dust?MusicNew albums from Spiritbox, Lacuna Coil, Testament, Mastodon, and moreThe resurgence of Rebecca Black as a hyper-pop queenPlus:Eden's latest manga obsession Nichijou, weird food adventures, and why TikTok's vibes are now offThe increasing difficulty of finding things to truly look forward to in today's entertainment landscapeJoin us for a candid, sometimes cynical, but always insightful look at what's ahead for pop culture in 2025.

This Week on "The Middle of Culture": Return to The Matrix!Twenty years after Neo and Trinity's supposed final chapter, we're diving deep into 2021's surprise sequel "The Matrix Resurrections." After weeks of defending the oft-maligned sequels, we're here to ask: Does this unexpected return stick the landing? (Spoiler: We might have some hot takes that'll surprise you!)

In this special retrospective episode of The Middle of Culture, Eden and Peter reflect on two years of podcasting by pitting every movie they've covered in a bracket-style showdown to crown the "Best Movie of the Podcast (So Far)." This reflective journey explores their evolving tastes, the movies that shaped their discussions, and the surprises along the way.Highlights- Catching Up: Eden and Peter share life updates, holiday anecdotes, and recent media they've consumed, from action games like God of War to the folk music of Forndom and Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series.Bracket Breakdown:• A pool of 35 movies, including classics (The Matrix), animation masterpieces (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse), underrated sci-fi (Solaris), and beloved kaiju flicks (Godzilla Minus One), is narrowed down.• Hilarious eliminations of duds• Heated debates over matchups like Logan vs. 1954's Godzilla and Dune: Part Two vs. Speed Racer.The Final Showdown: The climactic battle between two seminal movies that redefined their respective genres and continue to influence movies today.

This week, we return to dissect The Matrix Revolutions, the third and originally final installment in the Matrix series. From its action-heavy sequences to its emotional farewells, we explore how the film concludes Neo's journey and its place in the trilogy. Along the way, we discuss their latest media obsessions, frustrations with games, and what's on our radar this holiday season.Episode Highlights:• Personal updates: Peter shares his writing goals and Eden looks forward to a quiet holiday break.• What we're into:• Peter's latest reads include finishing the original Mistborn trilogy and starting The Armageddon Protocol.• Eden dives into speculative fiction, including The Red Scholar's Wake and Querido Hermano.• New music discoveries range from avant-garde death metal to gothic rock supergroups.• Gaming adventures: Peter's frustrations with Dragon Age: The Veilguard crashing on PC and a final verdict on Cyberpunk 2077 as one of the all-time greats.• Trailer talk: A skeptical look at the new Superman movie trailer, featuring too many characters and not enough focus.Main Topic -- The Matrix Revolutions:• Is it the weakest of the trilogy? Yes.• Is it still better than most action movies? Also yes.• The epic Zion defense sequence: Maybe too long but undeniably tense and visually striking.• Neo's final battle with Agent Smith: A rain-soaked, philosophical showdown that cements Neo's legacy.• Trinity's emotional farewell: A standout moment of love and sacrifice that hits all the right notes.• Final thoughts: Despite its flaws, Revolutions is a satisfying end to the trilogy and better than its reputation suggests.Engagement:What are your thoughts on The Matrix Revolutions? Does it deserve more love, or is it a fitting conclusion to the trilogy? Share your feedback at feedback@themiddleofculture.com or join the conversation on social media.If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends. Let's keep the Matrix conversation going as we gear up for The Matrix Resurrections in the next episode.Next Episode:Join us as we tackle The Matrix Resurrections and see how Lana Wachowski flips the script on sequels and expectations. Don't miss it!

Peter and Eden are back, diving headfirst into their analysis of The Matrix Reloaded. They explore its ambitious themes, dazzling action sequences, and how it stacks up against the original Matrix. From the philosophical depth of free will and control to Morpheus' magnetic leadership, the hosts dissect what makes this movie a messy yet compelling cinematic experience.Episode Highlights:• Desert Chronicles: Eden shares their relaxed Palm Springs getaway, complete with a Bing Crosby connection, senior living quirks, and the joys of retro cable TV ads.• Thanksgiving Recap: Peter talks about on-call holiday drama and a family gaming night featuring the hilariously chaotic Modern Problems Require Fantasy Solutions.• Movie Reviews: The hosts share thoughts on festive Netflix picks (Hot Frosty and Our Little Secret), the cultural milestone of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, and their accidental discovery of Columbo on Tubi.• Music Deep Dive: Peter and Eden swap recent music obsessions, including the latest from Opeth, Beyond Grace, and Mother of Millions. Plus, Peter's favorite albums of the year and his Apple Music Replay stats.• Book Club & More: Updates on Mistborn, The Stormlight Archive, and Eden's ongoing Steerswoman series read.• Main Topic -- "The Matrix Reloaded": The duo reflects on:• The bold yet messy expansion of the Matrix universe.• Iconic action sequences like the breathtaking freeway scene.• Neo's journey as a messianic figure grappling with destiny, love, and change.• Philosophical explorations of control, choice, and humanity's capacity to evolve.• That infamous CGI fight scene with countless Agent Smiths--both a triumph and a testament to 2003 tech.• The thrilling cliffhanger ending that left them itching for The Matrix Revolutions.Key Takeaways:• The Matrix Reloaded may not surpass the original, but it stands tall as a thought-provoking, visually arresting sequel.• Love it or hate it, the Wachowskis' vision remains bold, unique, and worth discussing.• They can't wait to tackle The Matrix Revolutions--will it live up to the hype, good or bad?If you've got thoughts on The Matrix Reloaded, your favorite fight scene, or a movie sequel you believe deserves more love, drop us a line at feedback@themiddleofculture.com.Enjoying the show? Leave us a review, share with a friend, and don't forget to hit that subscribe button! Next Episode Teaser: The countdown to Revolutions begins. What's in store for Neo and Zion? Stay tuned.

This week on The Middle of Culture, Eden and Peter navigate the whirlwind that is November. We delve into our personal struggles and victories, offering our listeners a peek into our hectic lives, creative endeavors, and coping strategies for challenging times.Key Highlights:The November Grind: Peter shares his experience participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) for the third year, discussing the challenges of staying motivated while juggling work and life stress. He offers insights into using tools like Obsidian to streamline his writing process and reflects on the emotional toll of creative burnout.Gaming Spotlight: Eden provides a thoughtful, spoiler-free review of Dragon Age: The Veil Guard. We discuss its strengths and shortcomings, highlighting gameplay, companions, and the series' evolution. Eden's commentary is both critical and affectionate, perfect for fans debating whether to dive in.Music & Media Recommendations: Peter gushes about new album releases, including standouts from Garea, Schammasch, and Iotunn, while Eden shares their newfound love for the Steerswoman fantasy series by Rosemary Kirstein.Mental Health Matters: Both hosts reflect on the importance of creating boundaries, whether by stepping back from social media or finding solace in hobbies. They discuss the value of supporting loved ones and fostering community in trying times.

# The Middle of Culture - The Matrix (1999)In this episode, hosts Peter and Eden dive into the groundbreaking 1999 film The Matrix. Having not seen it in nearly 20 years, Peter watches it for the first time since the early 2000s, while Eden revisits this influential sci-fi classic.First, we discuss what we have been checking out lately, with Eden discussing "Pupposites Attract" and Peter discussing his different approach to NaNoWriMo this year. Then we dive into "The Matrix", discussing such things as:- The film's incredible lasting influence on cinema, fashion, video games, and popular culture- Stellar performances from the perfect cast, particularly: - Keanu Reeves as Neo - Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus - Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity - Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith - Joe Pantoliano as Cypher- The revolutionary special effects and filming techniques, including the iconic "bullet time"- The movie's excellent pacing across its 136-minute runtime- Thoughtful use of reflections throughout the film to emphasize themes of reality vs simulation- Discussion of alternative casting choices that could have dramatically changed the film- The film's R rating despite relatively tame content by today's standardsFun Facts:- Will Smith turned down the role of Neo to make Wild Wild West instead- The film made nearly $500 million on a $60 million budget- First in a planned series reviewing all Matrix filmsNext Episode: The hosts will continue their Matrix journey with The Matrix Reloaded (2003).Contact the show: feedback@themiddleofculture.com

Pixels, Preferences, and the Passage of Time: A Gaming JourneyThis week on "The Middle of Culture," Eden and Peter dive into the ever-shifting landscape of their video game tastes. But before they press start on the main topic, they level up listeners with their recent media adventures!Eden takes us on a whirlwind tour:- They ponder whether "The Wild Robot" tugs at heartstrings or manipulates emotions- Their dragon-sized anticipation for "Dragon Age: The Veilguard," complete with a nostalgic stroll through Bioware's gaming history- A yakuza-style plunge into "Like A Dragon"- A sneak peek into the fashionable world of the upcoming "Infinity Nikki"- Unraveling the intricate threads of "Claudine," a comic that boldly tackles gender and relationship complexitiesPeter's playlist is just as diverse:- Gearing up for demon-slaying action in Diablo IV's "Vessel of Hatred" expansion- Falling head over heels for Balatro's iOS debut- Diving into the mystical depths of "The Well of Ascension"- Clocking in for some laughs with "Superstore"- A headbanging journey through recent metal releases featuring Sylosis, Blood Incantation, Devenial Verdict, and a potential album of the year from LowenFinally, our hosts press pause on their current obsessions to reflect on how their gaming preferences have evolved. They explore their drift away from the intense worlds of RTS, TBS, and FPS genres, gravitating instead towards immersive RPGs and laid-back sim games that offer a different kind of digital escape.Join Eden and Peter as they navigate the changing tides of their virtual adventures, proving that in gaming, as in life, the only constant is change!

Buckle up, culture enthusiasts! Eden and Peter are back, and they're taking you on an interstellar journey to the haunting world of Solaris. But first, fasten your seatbelts for a whirlwind tour of their latest obsessions:

Tarkovsky's "Solaris" Divides Our Hosts!Journey with us through the cosmos of pop culture in this week's episode of The Middle of Culture! Our hosts dive deep into the enigmatic world of Andrei Tarkovsky's 1972 sci-fi classic, "Solaris." But before we blast off, strap in for our signature pop culture roundup:- Diablo 4: Is it heaven or hell?- Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn: Worth a re-read?- New sonic landscapes from A Swarm of the Sun and Oceans of Slumber- Eden's musical discoveries and galactic adventures in Star Wars OutlawsThen, brace yourself for an interstellar debate! Our hosts go head-to-head over Tarkovsky's "Solaris":

Get ready for an unexpected ride on this week's "The Middle of Culture"! Life threw us a curveball, but Eden and I rolled with the punches, delivering an episode packed with pop culture goodness.First, we dive deep into our recent obsessions:- Eden takes us on a journey through the grim darkness of Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader and the galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: Outlaws.- Comic book fans, perk up your ears – Eden's got the latest scoop from the world of panels and speech bubbles.- Meanwhile, I confess my rekindled love affair with Diablo IV and drop a beat with a rundown of the hottest metal releases you can't miss.But wait, there's more! We cap off the show by dissecting the lifeblood of TV series – relationships. Which character dynamics elevated shows to new heights, and which ones made us reach for the remote? Tune in for our hot takes!

This week on "The Middle of Culture," brace yourselves for an epic journey into cinematic chaos! Eden and Peter dive headfirst into the 2023 live-action adaptation of 'Knights of the Zodiac,' based on the beloved anime 'Saint Seiya.' But why would our intrepid hosts willingly subject themselves to this cosmic catastrophe? Buckle up because Peter's behind-the-scenes tale of how this movie made it onto their watchlist might outshine the film itself. Get ready for an episode that's equal parts hilarious commentary, nostalgic musings, and a masterclass in questionable decision-making. Trust us, you won't want to miss this zodiac-sized adventure!

Join us for an insider's look at San Diego Comic Con 2024! This week on 'The Middle of Culture,' Eden and Peter share their unique perspectives on the world's biggest pop culture event. From Eden's presentation at the Comic Arts Conference to Peter's first-time experience, discover the highlights beyond the Hall H hype.Dive into their adventures on the bustling conference floor, gain insights from intriguing panels, and get the scoop on upcoming TV announcements from Ballroom 20. Plus, don't miss their exclusive thoughts on Apple TV+'s 'Silo' season 2 reveal!Whether you're a seasoned con-goer or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a fresh take on SDCC's academic side, fan experiences, and the future of your favorite franchises. Tune in for an episode that's as diverse and exciting as Comic Con itself!

Buckle up for a high-octane episode of "The Middle of Culture" as hosts Eden and Peter, fueled by their passion for film, rev their engines for a deep dive into the Wachowski sisters' 2008 film "Speed Racer." At the time, it was a critical and commercial flop, but since its release, this visually stunning adaptation has gained a devoted following. But does it truly deserve a victory lap?Before hitting the track, our hosts share their current media obsessions:- Peter's self-inflicted productivity book challenge- Eden's adventures in the latest Final Fantasy XIV expansionThen, it's pedal to the metal as we explore:- The jarring disconnect between "Speed Racer's" initial reception and its cult status- Our honest, unfiltered reactions to this polarizing film- Are the movie's unique visuals just there to compensate for its shortcomings?- Are internet defenders genuinely onto something, or just along for the ride?- The ultimate question: Is "Speed Racer" worth your valuable viewing time?Join us for a nitro-boosted discussion that'll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about this controversial piece of cinema. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a skeptic, this episode is sure to fuel your pop culture engine!#SpeedRacer #CultClassics #WachowskiSisters #MovieReview #PopCulturePodcast #FinalFantasyXIV #ProductivityBooks

Madame Web: Marvel Masterpiece or Cinematic Catastrophe?Swing into the world of Sony's latest Spider-Verse entry! This week on 'The Middle of Culture,' hosts Eden and Peter face off in an epic showdown over 'Madame Web.' Is it a hidden gem or a box office disaster? Eden's fallen under the movie's spell, while Peter claims it's more toxic than a radioactive spider bite. Join us for a hilarious, no-holds-barred debate as we:- Unravel the tangled mess that is the plot- Debate the relative values of lifeless and wooden acting- Discuss Dakota Johnson's psychic powers Whether you're a die-hard Spidey fan or a casual moviegoer, this episode promises laugh-out-loud moments and hot takes you won't want to miss!Subscribe now and join the conversation: Is 'Madame Web' a cult classic in the making or a franchise-killing flop? Let's weave through this web of opinions together!

In this week's episode of “The Middle of Culture,” hosts Eden and I dive into a variety of topics, from personal anecdotes and life updates to a lively discussion about our favorite action movies. I share my experience of living the temporary bachelor life while my family visits Alaska, and Eden discusses their new work project focused on improving website accessibility. The episode's highlight is an entertaining bracket showdown where we determine the best action movie from a list of 32 contenders, ultimately crowning a surprising entry as the winner.

On this week's episode of “The Middle of Culture,” Eden and I immerse ourselves in the world of live music!

In this week's episode of The Middle of Culture, Eden and I dive back into the legendary world of kaiju, focusing on the 2001 film "Godzilla, Mothra, King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack." The title might be a mouthful, but the movie offers even more monstrous action! With Godzilla, Mothra, and King Ghidorah headlining, and an additional surprise monster appearance, the film delivers a thrilling showdown of epic proportions.We'll explore the human narrative within this colossal creature feature and discuss Godzilla's transition into modern times. Plus, does this film coexist with the 1998 "Godzilla" starring Matthew Broderick? We'll answer these questions and more as we dissect one of the most thrilling entries in the Godzilla universe.

On this week's episode of 'The Middle of Culture', Eden and I dive into the Hugo-nominated novella, 'Ogres' by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Written from a unique second-person perspective, this tale unveils a world dominated by ogres--powerful beings towering over humans. Eden and I explore the narrative, discuss the themes, and share our personal takeaways from this story. Tune in to discover how 'Ogres' left us, whether it thrilled or fell short of our expectations. Don't miss this deep dive into this blend of fantasy and social commentary.

It's time for more Godzilla! This week on The Middle of Culture, we move to the 80s for "Godzilla vs. Biollante". What happens when you merge Godzilla with 80s action movies? Is it successful at one, both or neither? Listen as we discuss this entry in the colorful Godzilla franchise/history.

We're back this week with more Dune! On The Middle of Culture, we discuss the recent release, Dune Part 2. Did it succeed on the promises of Part 1? Is Paul the Lisan Al Gaib? Is Stilgar the unheralded comedic genius of the planet Arrakis? Listen as Eden and I discuss these questions and much more. Beware, spoilers abound!

He's back! It's time for more Godzilla. And this time, the monster has to face a formidable foe to be sure. A moth. A giant moth. And then the moth's twin larvae. That's right, this week on The Middle of Culture, we dive into the 1964 classic (?) Mothra versus Godzilla. Eden assures us this is one of the better Godzilla movies, and Peter begins to have serious doubts about this Godzilla journey, if this is one of the best ones. Still, it was a fun time and the conversation was a joy. Join us as we discuss this entry in the Godzilla-verse!

We're back baby! After both of us being under the weather, Eden and I are back to discuss our adventures with model kits. That is, of course, after we catch up on a full month's worth of media consumption that, given our recent illnesses, was quite a lot. So, join us as we catch up, and then dive into Gundam model building and our experiences with it.

We will be back in 2 weeks when Eden is hale and hearty!

This week on The Middle of Culture, join Eden and me as we journey back to the birth of a cinematic legend with a nostalgic look at the 1954 original Godzilla. Unearth the origins of a colossal cultural icon that continues to reign supreme to this day. Dive into the depths of the silver screen as we explore how Godzilla, in all its monstrous glory, first roared to life. We revisit this timeless classic that laid the foundation for an epic franchise. Discover why the original Godzilla remains a cinematic masterpiece that withstands the test of time. Godzilla has become more than just a movie; it's a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the enduring power of storytelling.

Here's a more engaging and SEO-optimized version of your podcast description:"

Join Eden, a lifelong Godzilla aficionado, Peter, an intrigued newcomer, and our special guest Gareth, as we plunge into the cinematic world of 'Godzilla Minus One'. This week's episode is a thrilling exploration of the most recent entry to one of the most iconic monster movies series ever made. Be prepared to be astonished by the moving nature of this film. We delve into the heart-stopping visuals, with Godzilla portrayed as a menacing, terrifying force of nature. But it's not just about the monster; this movie offers much more. We dissect the profound narrative, a poignant reflection on healing and moving forward from the dark shadows of WWII. Tune in for an in-depth discussion where we uncover the layers of storytelling, character development, and the legendary impact of Godzilla on cinema. Don't miss this episode if you're a Godzilla enthusiast or just love great storytelling in film!

Join Eden and me, lifelong gaming enthusiasts, in our next episode where we dive deep into the world of quick-play video games. We're exploring the latest gaming trend that's taking the industry by storm: Reverse Bullet Hell, or as we like to call them, ‘Bullet Heaven' games. These games can offer an exciting experience without the hefty time commitment. We'll be showcasing a few standout titles in this genre, dissecting what makes them so captivating and discussing their meteoric rise in popularity. Tune in to discover why these fast-paced games have become a sensation, and maybe find your next gaming obsession!

This week we have a special guest, as John, Peter and Eden's father, joins us for a special Thanksgiving week episode of the Middle of Culture. As a palate cleanse from last week's terrible, horrible, no good, very bad movie, we look to another 1985 action film. This time, we dive into the Jackie Chan classic, "Police Story". Listen as we discuss what makes this movie an enduring classic, and an essential film for any action movie fans.

The strikes are over, and to celebrate we decided to get back to a movie. Mind you, we doubt the WGA or SAG AFTRA had anything to do with this movie from 1985. But hey, Gymkata is the movie and watching it is an experience.

The 90s were a weird time for metal. The rise and fall of grunge, the rise of nu-metal, and the enshitification of some classic metal bands from the 80s all made for a weird time. And then there was Testament.

This week we dive into some Daredevil. Eden gives a great overview of "single issue" comics, and then we spend some time talking about these examples and our thoughts and experiences with them. For Peter, it was a very educational and interesting, and we hope it is for all of you as well!

Last week Eden and Cassi talked about video games in general. This week, Peter is back, and he and Eden get a little more specific with a face off between video game RPGs. We picked 64 we thought were worth mentioning and then pit them against each other to pick our favorite from each pairing.

This week Eden and Cassi come to the rescue. I've had some stuff going on that really put me in a place I wasn't going to be great co-host, so they graciously gave me the week off and came in with some hot video game talk. Give them a listen and a 5 star review for saving the week!

As the strike continues, we continue to avoid major Hollywood fare. This week Eden brings up a short story collection. Peter bounced off it hard, but Eden reminds us the importance of media that moves us to action, not just make us feel good.

No full episode this week, just a message about what is going to tantalize your ears.

Our initial plan this week was to watch an old, reportedly hilarious bad movie. But in an attempt at solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, we jumped into some books this week. Join us as Eden and I discuss books that were foundational to us, that we love, and then throw shade at some books we think are bad.

Visual novels are flourishing in the modern era. They offer an opportunity to tell and experience a story that, traditionally, would have just been in the written format, but with technology, these stories can be enhanced both with visuals and sound design. And most importantly, can be made responsive the the choices of you, the reader. This week we discuss the visual novel "Heaven Will Be Mine" and our thoughts about both the story as well as the experience of "reading" a visual novel.

This week Eden and I get a little into the woods. We've talked many times about music, but we wanted to discuss some of the how and why music means so much to us, and also why we continually seek out new music, rather than continue to relish the music we listened to in our early years. Yeah, it's a little navel gazey, but there you have it.

Spider-Man returns, this time traveling across the Spider-Verse, as Eden and I discuss the sequel to Into the Spider-Verse. How does this film hold up to the absolute banger that was the first? Listen and find out. General impressions kick things off after we catch up on some new media, and then we go full spoiler mode and discuss the film. I'll just say this, this movie deserves your time, attention, and money.

It's Spider-Verse season! While we originally planned to discuss the recent release of Across the Spider-Verse this week, we made a last minute decision (mostly for scheduling reasons) to start with the first film, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. And you know what? That was the correct decision. It is a movie that is so incredibly well and lovingly made that it is worth watching again and then gushing over for the next 30+ minutes, and that is exactly what we do.

It was finally Peter's turn to pick something, because he finally felt like he was in a position to do so. This week we took a look at the most recent issue of Uncanny Magazine, issue 52. Uncanny is an online magazine published every two months of speculative prose, poetry, and nonfiction works. Peter has been a subscriber for a bit now, but hasn't dived in and this seemed like a good time to finally get in and check it out.

Gamera returns! And with him comes the reckoning of some serious psychological trauma. In this conclusion to the trilogy, the movie takes a much darker and more psychological turn, and in the end, is it better for it? Listen along as we discuss our thoughts and opinions of this concluding movie.

Gamera returns! This week we dive into the second installment of this relatively recent Gamera trilogy, and see the might turtle take on Legion, a wild upside down crab looking monster. If you enjoyed the first, this one is sure to please, as it really takes everything about the first and levels it up in significant ways.