Join Rem, Ian and Jonathan for a weekly discussion and debate of your favorite Sci-Fi movies. From 'Alien' to 'Inception' to 'Forbidden Planet', we break down great Sci-Fi movies and answer burning questions such as 'Why did Ridley Scott's Alien have no
This time on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem are joined by Wayne Henderson to discuss 'The Dark Tower'.
This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss "War for the Planet of the Apes".
Here's our quick discussion about Alien: Covenant.
This time on the Sci-Fi TV Podcast, Jonathan and Rem are joined by Susanne and Athanasia to discuss the return of Twin Peaks!
We're very pleased to welcome back Karen from The Walking DeadCast and Wayne from The Packers Fan Podcast to discuss Season 2 of 'The Leftovers'. Questions to consider: What did you think of this dramatic departure in location and characters for Season 2 Would you want to live in Jarden/Miracle? Favorite Scenes? Favorite Character? How about the brilliant music score, and repeated themes, in both seasons? Is Patti really gone? Predictions for Season 3? Who is David Burton? What's the connection to Australia? Virgil (Shoot Patti) vs. Kevin Sr. (throw Patti down the well), how are Virgil and Kevin Sr. related? Predictions for Season 3? “While worldwide flooding is expected, we should be taking off before the rain begins,” “In the event of cabin decompression, place your oxygen masks over your mouths as we all prepare to take our last breaths. Please be sure to keep your seatbelt fastened, as everything you know and love will soon be gone. Flight Attendants: Please prepare for Final Departure” Rem's Points: Jarden seems to have become a beneficiary and a hostage to the Departure (They derive a big benefit from Tourism, but are now a walled off park where people tend to repeat even mundane events, thinking they're preventing another departure) (When the prisoner is released, the jailer also goes free) Also, if Evi's disappearance is really a departure, would that mean that Jarden was no longer saved? Bold moves, the intro at Axis Munde, introducing the Murphy's in a new location Foreshadowing of David Burton, Evie and the girls were secretly part of the GR Lori goes from being part of the GR to trying to destroy them Seems to be a power triad between Patti, Virgil and Kevin Sr., but who really has the power? Extro For a real deep dive into each episode, I suggest you subscribe to Jim and A-Ron's Podcast called ‘Following the Leftovers' over on the Bald Move Network. They go into much more depth and detail on each episode, and you've still got time to go through their podcast before Season 3 of The Leftovers starts on Sunday, April 16th. Find them at BaldMove.com The Walking Dead ‘Cast with Karen and Jason, where can we find you and Jason? As of this recording, we're into the last few episodes of Season 7 and war seems to be brewing... Find our other excellent Podcasts at Podcastica.com Wayne, how can we follow your Podcasts and your super secret projects to come? And a big thanks to Kyran Mountain, our Podcast Producer. You can find Kyran at PodcastSmarter.com. Get it touch and he can help you start a Podcast, or even take over some of your regular podcast duties, like editing, show notes and publishing. Next on the Sci-Fi TV Podcast, we're planning to revisit the first two seasons of Twin Peaks, which aired in 1990-91 and will be returning this May, 25 years later. After that, it's our exploration of all things BattleStar Galactica. Thanks as always for listening, and you'll find all the show notes and contact info on the website at Sci-Fi TV Podcast.com ================================================================ Episode 1 (Axis Mundy). Prehistoric pregnant women? I was looking at purpose here or just pure chance? A bit 2001 with the classical music Very bold move! Not until the piano kicks in five minutes later do we even know that this is the leftovers Evie meets Dr. good heart who has an Australian accent Evie and the girls are silence in the car, one of the small signs we never realize that they're part of the guilty remnant (Great foreshadowing) The Murphy family seems pretty normal at first There's a cricket in the house! Crack in the road is part of the tour, as is the woman in the wedding dress Some dude is living at the top of the concrete tower Letter for David Burton in Sydney Australia We're introduced to ‘Miracle', Texas home of the city of Jarden, where no departures ever happened Michael is selling holy water by donation John goes to see Isaac, who does readings by hand print John asks Isaac for a reading, but Isaac sees some bad stuff Evie is in the choir, and Jordan has its own theme song Girls run naked in the forest John is on the fire department, and they torch Isaac's house Erica goes running and digs up a bird from a box in the ground, and it is still alive Michael delivers a sermon, and Matt and Mary have already come to Miracle Matt's story about Mary is interrupted by the priest, weird looks abound Dude brings a goat into a restaurant and cuts its throat Perfect strangers cast member fakes his own departure Kevin very cautiously put his hand down the drain Michael goes to see the old man, and we see that miracle is walled off with security, guards and spotlights Jon finds a pie at the door just as Kevin Nora and Jill arrive next-door John introduces himself to Nora, gives them a pie Nice barbeque John thinks that Kevin is not being truthful with them John was in prison for attempted murder The cake comes out and Evie has a seizure Earthquake in the middle of the lights, and they realize Evie is gone John and Michael find the car at the quarry, walked in music playing Water is drained out of the river Cricket chirps Episode 2 (A Matter of Geography) This is the other side of the Garvey's move to Jarden, focusing on Kevin, Nora and Jill They're planning to keep the baby Big confessions: Kevin tells them about Patti, and walking in his sleep, Nora hires hookers, Fast forward 2 months, Kevin doing laundry and Lily is crying like crazy, he's got earbuds in! Kevin and Nora go to a custody hearing, and they get offered another baby ‘Where is my mind?' is playing for Kevin Fixing washer, buys shovel and digs up Patti, gets pulled over by cop intentionally and confesses about Patti All this honesty seems to be really good for Jill, she visits with Tommy Tommy is with Lori Nora is offered 2.7 Million for her house, MIT wants to research her house because of its anomalous nature MIT thinks Geography is a factor, and Nora could have departed if she was sitting at the table instead Cop questions Kevin about Patti's death, and the cop seemed very eager to close the case Kevin gets his first visit from Patti Kevin Sr. was released and is planning to go to Australia They move to Jarden (Miracle National Park) Dogs need to be quarantined Kevin meets old man, who invites Kevin to come see him ‘about his situation' The house they planned to rent had burned down, was it the one John burned down? Nora spontaneously buys house for 3 million, Kevin is a bit stunned They camp out the first night The family takes possession of the house, Kevin has a fight with Patti John brings the Garvey's a pie Merge into the Birthday party for John Kevin flips out over a lightbulb, apologizes to Nora Kevin wakes up at the river which is now drained, finds himself tied to a concrete block. Goes to Evie's empty car, puts hand on window. Leaves as John and Michael drive up in the truck looking for Evie. (Did they choose this spot thinking it might be a good spot for departures to happen? Episode 3 (Off Ramp) Crazy drum intro, Lori washing her car Tommy has infiltrated the GR, rescues woman named Susan Lori is writing a book, setting up an office and and space for people to stay Tommy brings Susan to GR support group Video of Holy Wayne at his beginning Tommy is drinking, not doing so well Lori talks to douchy landlord, he doesn't want people staying at the office GR member go to Lori's meeting and try to intimidate them News story about a guy name David Buron, resurrecting from a cave is on the TV as Tommy returns home Lori arrives at office to find all their stuff out on the street and her laptop with her book is missing Lori breaks into Landlord's house, steal back the laptop, the runs over two of the GR standing on the road in front of her Tommy tries to recruit the wrong woman, she blows the whistle on him (literally) and he get chained up in a truck. Meg comes, has sex with him, and threatens to set him on fire Lori buys a new dress for a meeting with a publisher Tommy is very traumatized by the event Susan trying to return to her normal life, but it's not working. On the highway, she steers her vehicle into oncoming traffic, killing herself and family During the meeting with the publisher, they mention a guy in Australia who believes he can't die (David Burton?) Lori attacks the publisher Lori wonders why they're failing, Tommy says it's because they not offering people anything, so they take the Holy Wayne story and apply it to Tommy Episode 4 (Orange Sticker) Earthquake! Nora is alone and Kevin isn't home Evi's gone, and Nora thinks the departure might have happened again She faints, tries to connect to anyone, ‘did the departure happen again'? Kevin comes back Patti “looks like you have some explaining to do, sport' Kevin tells Nora and Jill exactly what happened when he woke up in a drained river. Very refreshing to see the honesty! Search party starts looking for the girls at the river, Kevin searches for his phone Jill gets Michael to help fix the sink. Romance is brewing! Nora meets John's Dad while buying Whiskey & Cigarettes (He's like an old Danny Glover) Patti helps Kevin find his phone in the drained river, tells him not to get in the truck with John John takes Kevin to the motel where Isaac is staying, and John shoots Isaac. Kevin takes John back and Erica patches him up Patti tell Kevin about her ex, and his ‘interests' Nora has a drink with Jill, confronts Matt about Jarden, is it real? Matt says Mary woke up one night! Patti finally gets Kevin to talk to her (Rick Astley) Tower guy asks who's your friend? (Song from Grease “Better shape up”) Michael scrapes orange sticker off their house Episode 5 (No Room at the Inn) Somewhat Matt Centric, montage of him taking care of Mary Matt takes Mary on a doctor's appointment, runners are trying to get into Miracle Matt drops phone in toilet, then finds out Mary is pregnant Matt stops to help people on the way back (Matt should just never stop for, or try to help anyone!) Matt and Mary try to get back in, and John refuses to help them (John refuses to believe Mary woke up, miracles don't happen in Jarden) Matt and Mary have to go through the camp ordeal to try to get back into Miracle Matt sees a guy in stocks Nora sneaks Matt and Mary in the back of their car They come upon a car accident where the two people who attacked him crashed, takes the man's wrist band, but won't take the kids. They get Mary home, Matt goes back out to the camp and takes the man's place in the stocks Episode 6 (Lense) Researcher goes to Miracle to explore the departure, goes to Evie's house and then Nora's house. He starts probing here with equipment and she throws him out of the yard Nora throws a rock through the Murphy's window Damn Apple ringtones! Nora meets guy from DSD, and he's trying to get Erica to talk to him Erica digs up another bird box, bird is dead. She puts it on a pile of dead birds Nora talks to DSD guy about a new questionnaire and the nature of the departure Nora asks him about ‘Lensing', the possibility that a person could be responsible for another person's departure Erika has to patch up Dr. Goodheart, who got beat up and palm printed by John Kevin left Lily in the hood of the truck, and he's starting to really lose it Erica has stuff stashed away, as if she's planning to leave him Nora possessed by A Demon? Erica chases guy who delivers a pie to their door, she drives it back to John's Dad's place (What did the dad do?) Nora takes Mary to see Matt, who's out of the stocks We learn that John shot the Dad at some point Nora gets a call from Lori Garvey, looking for Tommy At the fundraiser, Nora steals the new questionnaire from DSD guy (George Brevity) Gerry the Goat man brings in a goat to slaughter, Erica calls out everyone who'd doing stuff thinking they're preventing another departure Nora takes questionnaire to Erica's place, and applies the questions to her Erica explains the bird thing (Bury a bird, wait 3 days, and if it's alive when you open the box, make a wish and it will come true) Erica wished that her kids would be ok if she left, and the bird was alive when she opened the box) next night, Evie was gone Kevin tells Nora that he's seeing Patti, Erica throws rock through window Episode ends with ‘I am a Rock' Episode 7 (A Most Powerful Adversary) Kevin wakes up to Patti telling him Nora has left with the baby Jill tells Michael about Nora leaving and Kevin losing his marbles Kevin tries a locksmith to remove a handcuff, doesn't go so well Patty tells Kevin this weird story about a chalice (Audio) Michael watches Kevin have conversation with imaginary Patty, put his bike in the truck, and gets in the truck They drive to Virgil's place, and Virgil lays out the story again Virgil tells Kevin how he must get rid of PattI Who was Virgil's adversary? Kevin drives out in the woods looking for PattI Let's do battle! Lori comes to the park to see Kevin, she's looking for Tommy Piano version of ‘Where is my mind?' playing Kevin goes to fire hall to get handcuff removed, and John gets his handprint Kevin goes and talks to Lori, she believes he must take medication and do counselling, that he's having a psychotic break Kevin brings Lori back home Nora calls Kevin, Jill comes home and Kevin drives off to Virgil's place Virgil gives poison to Kevin, empties the epinephrine syringe and then shoots himself. Virgil did the same with Edward, the guy on the pillar Episode 8 (International Assassin) There is so much in this episode, could dissect it for hours! Kevin wakes up in a hotel, puts on a suit and then kills a guy broken flowers There's a bird flying around the hotel Virgil is the concierge Is the bird flying around the same bird that Erica buried in a box? Kevin saves little girl in pool, turns out to be a young Patti Levin How do you's father is such a dick! Virtual tells Kevin he is an international assassin, and he must assassinate Patty, who is running for President Virgil says don't drink the water Interesting how the closet changes to offer just one type of suit when he change his clothes Kevin sees his dad on TV Flowers are being delivered for Mary Jamison Kevin get strapped to a chair and is questioned by Gladys, and Windex in the eyes! Kevin Senior has a fire burning on the bed, is that why the fire alarm is going off for Kevin? Kevin passes 100 man in a Mapleton cop uniform Kevin gets patted down, agent says congratulations Holy Wayne is a security gate agent for Senator Leven Wayne said he felt déjà vu and remembered seeing Kevin the last time he was sitting on the toilet Lots of offers for water, but Patty never touches the stuff Patty says our cave collapsed about October 14 Kevin start shooting, Patty tries to convince him she is a double, and he shoots her anyway Virtual smashes the bird with the binder Virgil drank the water Kevin goes back to his room, Neil has been locked out of his room and has a drink with Kevin Neil tells Kevin that he's dead, and can't find a single woman to take a dump on him Patty is wearing a sign that says "I need to keep my mouth shut”, Kevin takes young Patty to the well There is a well in Jardin Texas The music as a very surreal quality The well is a conduit between the worlds Jordan is dark and misty and Kevin is attacked by David Burton Kevin and Patty walk to the well What did David whisper to Kevin? how do you seem so resigned and compliant, and says such horrible things about herself, Kevin pushes her in. Kevin here's adult Patty calling for help. He tries to climb down the well and falls in with her Patty tells the story about Jeopardy and making money to leave Neal. Kevin drowns Patty and is covered in rubble during earthquake Kevin crawls out of his own grave, and Michael says "holy shit“ Episode 9 (Ten Thirteen) This is a Meg centric episode starts with Meg having lunch with mom. She's doing a lot of Coke and mom has a heart attack Meg and the boyfriend go on a tour of miracle Meg goes to see Isaac the psychic Meg meet EV and EV tells her and joke about the broken pencil Later, Meg in the guilty remnant bored at school bus of kids and roll in a fake hand grenade Meg goes to a nice house has a meeting with what appears to be the guilty remnant high Council Tommy is holding a hug session, and Meg shows up for a hug Tommy has a fight with Laurie leaves wakes up in a park and sees a woman abandon a dog at a playground Tommy gets drunk, goes to a guilty remnant house looking for mag Megan is going to miracle and brings Tommy along on a road trip Megs ringtone is crickets chirping Megan Tommy stop for a drink and we hear that excellent song from stir Joel Simpson Tom is just completely lost here, and Meg is seemingly just toying with him Meg takes Tommy to the guilty remnant compound, where an innocent guy happened onto their property, and they stone him to death! We hear the song magic by Olivia Newton John, an Australian? Meg goes to miracle to see the bridge leading into Jarden She runs into Matt and has a conversation with him She says to Matt "you're waiting for me” Tommy goes into the barn open up the trailer and finds EV and her two friends Episode 10 (I Live Here Now) Third view of the girls leaving, and we finally see their members of the guilty remnant Kevin and the girls see each other at the river When he climbs out of his grave Michael tells Kevin he was dead for eight hours Against John's wishes, Erica opens the gift, and there is a dead cricket inside. Would that remind Erica dead birds in boxes? The imprint is matched to Kevin, and Jon and the officers take Kevin to the dog pound Nora is taken care of Mary in the baby, earthquake happens and Mary wakes up! Nora text Mary to see much out on the campground Meg and Tommy are at the campground too, and Tommy is oblivious! Make drives a truck and trailer to the middle of the bridge Meg gets arrested and the three girls come out of the trailer John confront Kevin at the dog pound, and shoots Kevin John leaves the dog pound and sees EV on the bridge Michael tells the true story about when he and EV were kids in the bathtub, Erica and John go to the bridge, and Erica can't seem to reach EV The clock countdown to zero the guilty remnant start a march across the bridge Erica says she doesn't understand, and EV says you understand, like Patty said to Kevin in season one Matt and Mary start to cross the bridge, crazy camper woman steals Nora's baby Tommy for the first time in a long time does a smart thing by bringing Nora and Lily to safety in the camper Kevin wakes up back at the hotel, and is not pleased And the hotel music has come back with him! This time Kevin chooses the police officers uniform Gets a phone call of a disturbance down in the lounge, sounds like the Australian voice of David Burton All the audio from the karaoke soon Kevin gets up and sings the song home and was transported back to the dog pound Kevin is bleeding when he returns to the dog pound and makes his way through a devastated Jardin to the medical clinic where he encounters John again He also gets his dog back! Then the dog leaves… Kevin goes to the tourist centre and finds a whole bunch of guilty remnant including Meg, and she sings the Jordan song Jon is patching up Kevin, and weeps because he has no idea what is going on John walks Kevin back to his place, and wonders if Erica is home One more earthquake is Kevin approaches home Kevin walks into his house and everyone is there
The Leftovers Show Notes - Season 1 Welcome to the very first episode of The Sci-Fi TV Podcast, my name is Rem and to help us get started, we're very happy to welcome Karen, one half of the most popular Walking Dead Podcast on the planet, the Walking Dead ‘Cast. And a big welcome to Wayne Henderson, from the Packers Fan Podcast, 11.22.63 A Look Back, and another mysterious tv fan podcast later in 2017. On our first episode, we're talking about Season 1 of the HBO series The Leftovers. We're doing two catch you up episodes to refresh you for the 3rd and final season which begins Sunday April 16th on HBO. We'll spoil everything in season 1, but not season 2, so you have a chance to catch up on season 2 before we do our next episode. Might be a bit of language here too, Questions to consider: What first got you watching The Leftovers? The Damon Lindelof factor (Lost!) Will we ever know the reason for the departure? What else is coming? Favorite Scene? Favorite Character? What other unanswered questions do you have? Dean the dog shooter. Angel? What's with his truck? What does Kevin and Kevin Sr. have specifically? Is it that they're resisting spiritual guidance? Did the GR use real bodies or mannequins? Thanks to Karen and Wayne for joining us, and we'll be back with a look at season 2 in early March as we make our way to the third and final episode of The Leftovers. Get all the show notes, video clips and more on the website at Sci-Fi TV Podcast.com ==================================================================== Episode 1 (Pilot) Tunefind.com That song! “Retrograde” by James Blake Kevin and his up in the laundromat with a crying baby in season two like the woman did at the beginning of season one - Jill might act out less if Kevin actually told her what he was feeling and going through. She acts out because she's not being included or talked to. (Kevin won't tell her not to go to the Memorial) - What so obviously seems like the Christian rapture is being denied by Matt the Priest Tom reading ‘The stranger, by Albert Camus lots of quick jarring cuts gives you the sense that there's tension and immediate danger just under the surface Empty picture frames - The kids have lost all sense of meaning and purpose, and have become hedonistic. Dogs, Deer and assorted animals. Kevin keeps waking up on the floor Tommy screaming under water Dog shooter at end, 'don't just stand there'. What caused the dogs to go crazy? Matt as the Job of the Bible Episode 2 (Penguins one, us zero) Did Dean the dog shooter just give the black pickup truck to Kevin? Can't reconcile the black truck and how Dean would just give it to him Chopping down the tree, is that to demonstrate the nature of futility? Why did Nora push the cup off the table? Episode 3 (Two boats and a helicopter) Stop light goes from green straight to read and then flashes red, and pigeons on top of the street light Matt has the awesome creepy dream sequence! Episode 4 (BJ and the AC) Baby Jesus stolen Christine accosted by naked guy: ‘ you walk over the dead, they're all in white', ‘I know what's inside you' Kevin tries to arrest the GR, for trespassing at the school Kevin almost crashes car, loses control of it Kevin driving black truck now? Jill almost torching BJ, felt dark and sacrilegious Tom takes Christine to hospital Lori tries to serve divorce to Kevin by Meg reading a note from Lori Jill gives Lori a lighter The Twins return the BJ On the bus, Tom and Christine find dead bodies in white all over the road, like the naked guy said Kevin meets Nora (moments of brutal honesty) Kevin and cops mass arrest the GR The rest of the GR is breaking into homes and stealing pictures (also brutal considering what happens later in the season Kevin finds Matt replacing the BJ, and throws his away. Lori tries to get light from gutter Episode 5 (Gladys) Gladys seems to be agreeing to something with Patty Gladys and another GR walked past a man who has fallen, they offer no help Gladys is kidnapped, strapped to a tree, and stoned to death One of the hardest death scenes of any TV show to watch Then Dean shoots some dogs? Kevin has lost a bunch of his shirts We learned that Dean actually exists, and is not one of Kevin's hallucinations Kevin tells Jill about the GR person who died. Jill thought it was her mom, Kevin explained everything, finally being a good communicative parent Lori has a panic attack and goes to the hospital Patty picks up Lorene from the hospital and take her to a hotel, plays the radio! Kevin calls the ATF and leaves a message to be called back Laurie and Patty have breakfast and Patty chats up a storm! Kevin runs into Nora at the laundromat, they don't have his shirts Kevin questions Matt, asked if he was involved in Gladys is murder Patty gives a speech to Laurie [grab the audio] 35:00 Patty writes the name Neil on a bag Sean: he gets Gladys's body shipped to Virginia, Kevin leaves another message and Taras him a new one Patty leaves a bag on Neil's doorstep Kevin is having issues with the house alarm Kevin talks to the agent finally, and the agent makes a dark suggestion that seems to indicate doing away with the GR (illuminate the infestation), something like what happened to Wayne's compound The agent offers to send troops to wipe out the guilty remnant Kevin gets loaded, buys more beer, then goes and harasses the laundromat guy Meg has stopped talking, dressed in white and rights to Patty that she is ready Matt sets up a public address system outside the guilty remnant house, Laurie goes out with a whistle and blows it in his face Matt seemed so hopeful when Laurie came out, poor guy takes such a shit kicking Kevin tells Jill about the divorce, and she seems to really appreciate that he actually talked to her, Kevin weeps into a pillow Switch to a facility where Gladys's body is removed from the box and cremated This is the saddest episode of the entire series Episode 6 (Guest) Nora Centric Nora conducts interviews for Benefits recipients She spies on the pre-school teacher to was having affair with her husband Nora hires a prostitute to shoot her (Blasting music) Nora goes to court to file for divorce, runs into Kevin, who is also getting a divorce...she invites him to Miami Nora meets with co-worker, he queries how she asks a particular question (Question 121 “In Nora goes to conference, has to wade through a protest, and finds someone has stolen her conference ID She meets super douchy guy named Marcus, and she really doesn't care what he does Confronts a woman who she thinks took her badge, but it's not her Nora makes out with Marcus' body double Hotel security kicks her out of the hotel She goes to a copy store and makes a fake ID Goes back to the hotel and confronts the woman who stole her identity Nora meets the guy who wrote the book (Patrick Johanson) and flips out on him Meets tall bald guy who takes her to see Holy Wayne Nora goes shopping for her own groceries instead of her family Kevin asks Nora out on a date Nora does another interview, asks question 121 ‘In your opinion, do you believe _______________ is in a better place? Nora's ‘yes' streak is broken. Episode 7 (Solace for tired feet) Jill and friends are taking turns doing the refrigerator challenge Nora and Kevin on fourth date, and they're gonna do it! Jill gets stuck, and her grandfather breaks her out Tommy and Christine are in Gary, Indiana Holy Wayne call Tom, tells him to take some money to one of his other concubines Jill tells Kevin that his dad escaped, Kevin doesn't tell Jill anything...constantly, very frustrating Kevin has a dream of the dog shooter, he's got a dog in a mailbox and dead GR members in the truck (including Lori) Kevin wakes up with bandaged hand on the floor, and do tied up in back yard Doesn't look like a dog bite, more a human bite Kevin's dad busted up a library, seems he was trying to get hold of a National Geographic for Kevin Tommy take half his money and gives it to the the other couple hosting Wayne's other baby Jill's Grandpa shows up at home, and talks to Jill (He actually talks to her) Kevin arrives, arrests Grandpa (Kevin Sr.) Jill orders something online Kevin doesn't remember getting the dog or talking to Amy Kevin Sr. is with Matt, and Kevin is losing it. Tom learns about Wayne baby franchise and almost gets shot Kevin Sr. meets Kevin at diner, gives him NG magazine, Kevin refuses (May 1972 issue of National Geographic) Kev. Sr. says ‘You need to accept it'. Is Kevin on the Hero's Journey in the Joseph Campbell sense? Matt tries to quote scripture, Kevin tells him to fuck off. Kevin goes to Nora's, and they make the sweet love! Meg tells Lori that Kevin is with Nora, Lori says ‘so?' Kevin tells Nora he thinks he might be going crazy Kevin finds NG magazine that Jill ordered, flips out on Jill Wayne calls Tom, Tom throws the phone against the wall, goes home to see Christine has given birth to a baby girl Episode 8 (Cairo) Patti is bringing stuff to the church (laying out clothes), Kevin is cooking dinner (laying out a tablecloth and napkins) Patty give a pile of money to Lor, asks ‘Ready'? Nora has dinner with the Garvey's, Jill asks Nora about her gun Nice to see some romance as a doom buffer Kevin wakes up in his car in the woods (at a cabin with Dean the dog shooter) Uh, oh….Patti is tied to a chair in a cabin, much to Kevin's absolute surprise! Meg goes thermal on Matt for one of his posters Kevin can't remember anything, Dean explains Patti's abduction to him They're in Cairo, New York Patti will not forgive or forget Lori disciplines Meg against violence (This is Meg's turning point, I believe) We learn Meg's mom died Oct. 13th, the day before the departure Meg apologizes to Matt, he accepts...this guy is a saint! Jill and Amy fight, Jill accuses Amy of sleeping with Kevin (Nobody is ok) and that blows up their friendship Great dynamics between Kevin and Patti, they talk about the GR, and Patti says they have no information about Dean's identity, he prefers ‘Guardian Angel'. Dean: Go back to the truck, I need to talk to the other guy (Tyler Durden multiple personality) Jill and the twins break into Nora's house, and find Kevlar and gun Really seems like Jill is just looking for someone to be straight and honest with her Kevin leaves crackly message for Nora Finds all his shirts on trees in the woods near cabin (implosion imminent) Kevin goes back to cabin to find Dean put a plastic bag on her head, they fight, Kevin wins and releases her Dean walks out, says ‘Shut the Fuck up, I tried'....was he talking to Patti or his own voices? Lori and Meg me up with guys and a trailer to take possession of a bunch of dead bodies The GR start moving bodies into the church Nora goes home to find her gun has been moved Jill goes home, Amy leaves (she seems essentially homeless) Jill frees the dog and goes to stay with the GR Kevin and Patti talk at the cabin Patti about Gladys' murder: ‘she was ok with it'....and when Lori's time comes, she'll be good with it too' Still don't completely understand this scene…. Kevin cuts Patti loose, and she cuts her own throat Episode 9 (The Garvey's at their best) Kevin hides smokes under a mailbox, (Tommy put money under a mailbox, dog in a mailbox) Flashback! Lori is talking and Jill is happy. Nora and husband are awaken by her kids Lori is a Psychiatrist and Patti is her patient Kevin is a secret smoker Deer rampages through the school, terrifies the kids and does a lot of damage Patti feels like something terrible is going to happen (like the world is going to end) Patti says ‘Something's wrong inside you' (Lori is pregnant) Nora wants to work for the Mayor's campaign Kevin Sr. is Chief and not crazy Tommy got arrested, problem with his biological father, Kevin kicks his ass Gladys is a dog breeder Jill prepping for the Science Fair Big party for Kevin Sr. Mary is talking and walking Seems to be some estrangement between Nora and Husband Everybody at the party is happy! Kevin: Why isn't it enough? Kevin Sr. ‘Every man rebels against the idea that this is it', ‘You have no greater purpose because it is enough' Kevin runs, smoke break, women in a car ask ‘Are you ready?', and drive on. Sewer cover blows up in front of him! Deer gets caught in house of a family whose son has Downs and departed Deer gets hit by car, Kevin puts it down Kevin goes to motel with woman, and she departs while they're having sex We see the woman with the crying kid that we saw in the first episode Lori sees Mary in the waiting room at the Doctor Nora frustrated with kids and husband, they depart when she has her back turned Jill and Tommy form a human circuit at the science fair. Someone in the circuit departs, and the light goes out Lori is pregnant, and the baby departs right out of her husband Each of the Garvey's had a personal departure experience Departures seem to happen at time of emotional peak? Episode 10 (The Prodigal Son Returns) Patti is dead Spanish version of ‘If you go away' Jill tries smoking with mom Christine says about Wayne ‘He's never coming for us'. She abandons the baby in a public washroom, Tommy finds the baby and Christine is gone Church dude asks Tommy ‘Can I help you'? Jill puts on the GR white, defies her mom to talk. ‘Nothing else Matters' played Montage of bodies and clothes gathered… Next morning, all the departed have been replaced with doubles Nora goes insane after seeing her family back at the table Kevin called Matt to help with burying Patti's body Kevin gets hauled into a mental hospital, given a copy of NG Magazine and a note saying ‘Stop talking to yourself and they'll let you watch TV' He's taken to a lounge where his Dad talks to him. Patti shows up too, Kevin Sr. said ‘3 years ago, we realized why we're still here' Wake the fuck up! Kevin wakes up in the car with Matt, it was a dream. They stop at a restaurant Kevin tells Matt about the other woman, and wanting to leave his family Kevin feels tremendous guilt for wanting to be away from his family, and then losing them one by one. Goes to bathroom and finds badly injured Holy Wayne Wayne asks Kevin to make a wish, in hopes that he wasn't a fraud all along Damn, Wayne is a phenomenal actor! Police burst in, take Wayne's body and question Kevin Matt and Kevin go home to Mapleton, which is about to explode on the GR Riots break out, the community torches the GR cul du sac Meg ‘We made them remember' Houses burning, GR being beaten, general chaos Burning house, Lori comes out, screams ‘Jill!” Kevin goes into house, rescues Jill Nora holds hands with the replacement bodies at the table, writes note to Kevin. She's planning to leave Tommy finds Lori by the ocean Kevin and Jill walk home, find the dog, and Nora at his door with Christine's baby
Coming soon! Rem, Jonathan and Kyran are back to talk about the new Sci-Fi TV Podcast!
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Kyran Mountain. Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan, Rem and Kyran present the final episode of The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast! Movie News: Jonathan: 'Godzilla Resurgence' Becomes Biggest Live-Action Film of Year Kyran: Death on the set of Blade Runner 2 Rem: IBM's computer Watson creates a trailer for new movie ‘Morgan' --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies to see: Jonathan: About Time (2013) Rem: Westworld (1973) Kyran: Zathura (2005) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies To Avoid: Rem: Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) Kyran: Zathura (2005) Jonathan: Battlefield Earth (2000) Top Five List of Essential Sci-Fi Movies Listener picks 1. Blade Runner 2. The Matrix 3. Star Wars 5: Empire Strikes Back 4. Star Wars IV: A New Hope 5. Aliens Honourable Mentions: Alien Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan Serenity Dune Enemy Mine Forbidden Planet The Day The Earth Stood Still The Terminator X-Men 3: The Last Stand Combined Host Top 5 List (Rem, Jonathan, Kyran) 1. Star Wars IV: A New Hope 2. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 3. 2001: A Space Odyssey 4. The Martian 5. Blade Runner Rem's picks: 1. 2001: A Space Odyssey 2. Blade Runner 3. The Matrix 4. War Of The Worlds 5. The Day The Earth Stood Still Honourable Mentions: Alien The Terminator Star Wars IV: A New Hope Contact Jonathan's picks: 1. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 2. Star Wars IV: A New Hope 3. Inception 4. The Iron Giant 5. Serenity Honourable Mentions: Galaxy Quest Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back District 9 Kyran's picks 1. The Martian 2. Star Wars Series 3. Back To The Future 4. Edge Of Tomorrow 5. Minority Report Honourable Mentions: The Last Starfighter Ender's Game Big thanks to Ian Fults, our co host partner from the very beginning. Thanks some of our previous guests, and Ian, Bonnie and Tim, and everyone else who joined us: Trevor Laboucane, Judy Marston, Jaime Pahal, Jason Cabassi, Kevin Bachelder, Cris Nicols, Cecile Korst, Josh Readon, Rob Cesternino, Nick Miller, Wayne Henderson, Robin Ess, Tony, Mr. Blahg, Dallas Ross, Scott Hertzog, Christina Smith, Andrew Jackson, Elizabeth Round, Pi'ilani and her daughter Kanoi, Daniel McIntyre, Jen Briney, Seth Heasley, Brian Campbell, Doug Ferguson, Roger Cousineau We'll leave the Podcast in iTunes and the Website will be online for the next 6 months. Listener Feedback Wayne Henderson I'm sorry to hear about the end of the SFMP, Rem. I sure have enjoyed listening to it, over the years! Top 5 Essential SF movies: 3. Star Wars - A New Hope. 4. Star Wars - Empire Strikes Back. 2. The Matrix. 1. Blade Runner. 5. Alien. Bonnie Beyea NNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!! Cathy Oliver I'm sad to hear this Rem. I may not have participated but that is only because it isn't my genre of movie. You know I support you always and hope whatever you have in store keeps you happy! Rena Lavictoire You must be on your way to another form of sharing yourself...I hear Skype works really well on Sundays Jeff Ritchot Sorry to hear bud you and Jonathan are extremely talented and very entertaining to listen to can't wait to support your next adventure cheers man! David Oliver Sorry to hear its the end Rem. ' Here are my picks for the essential Sci-Fi movies. 1-Blade Runner, 2-The Matrix 3-The 5th Element 4-Serenity 5-Silent Running (Yes, Im that old) Oscar Esquivel 1-alien 2-original 3 star wars 3-inception 4-john Carter (i know, I know) 5-edge of tommorow Hans-Kristian Moslund Amazing journey for you guys, what an effort and pleasure for the fans. You have followed me in many hours of driving and house cleaning, and it will never be the same agin. Rem and Jonathan - you are the best !! - and you absolutely have made a difference for me !! Thank you - thank you - thank you !!!. Mark Des Cotes Thanks for the ride guys. My top 5 would be, in reverse order. 5 - Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 4 - The Matrix 3 - Ghostbusters (The Original) 2 - Back To The Future 1 - Star Wars A New Hope Stefan Kanzok I can only echo everyone else here. More of a passive listener but I enjoyed every episode immensely. You always made me feel like being one at the same table discussing the movies we love. You will be sorely missed. THANK YOU!! My top 5 essential Sci-fi movies would be 1. Serenity, 2. The Empire strikes back, 3. The Matrix, 4. The Martian, 5. Star Trek (2009). Thanks again and all the best to you!!! Kelly A. Beam Sorry to hear that you're ending the podcast. It's been great listening to you guys. It's probably too late for this, but here are my top 5 (in no particular order): Star Wars (A New Hope) Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan Jurassic Park The Matrix Aliens Chuck Moore No! Don't go! Andrew Lantz Nooooooooooo Steve Ferguson So sorry to hear your podcasting adventure is coming to an end. I'd like to personally thank you for your recommendations, your commentary, and the hours of entertainment I've had listening to you. Good fortune and much love to whatever you gents wind up pursuing! Now on to my top five list... 5) Back to the Future. 4) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 3) Star Trek II - The Wrath of Khan 2) Star Wars Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes Back 1) Blade Runner: The Final Cut Ton de Witte Well all good things must come to an end still a pity I loved listening. 5 the Matrix 4 blade runner 3 gattaca 2 the day the earth stood still 1 forbidden planet Not necessarily in this order these movies have influenced other movies or were very original and they made an impression on me. Jeff Pierce Awwww man..... sorry to hear this. but really enjoyed everything you guys have done. thanks for the fun. all the best Jennifer Robertson Such a shame. I will miss you guys and I wish you all the luck for the future. Jennifer Robertson Insert "Wilhelm Scream" here Shawn Smalldridge Thanks for all the great shows guys! Matt Young Nooooooooooooo, just found you guys when you joined Podcastica. Really sorry to hear that it's ending now. Live long and prosper, where you're going, you won't need roads.... it's a trap! David Zapanta Well, damn. You will be missed. Thanks for making my commute more bearable. Much luck to all of you in your future endeavors...! Now, as for my Top 5 Essential Sci-Fi Movies, here they are in no particular order:...See More Scott Chappel Spent many hours listening as I traveled for work. 1-The Matrix, 2-Blade Runner, 3- Empire Strikes Back, 4-Inception and 5- Wrath of Khan. You will be missed. Bair Innokentev I wish all the best for Rem, Jonathan, Kyran and Ian, your show was truly a masterpiece from start to finish! As for Top 5 Movies, I would like to list the following: - The Terminator - Robocop - Minority Report - Inception - Disctrict 9 Honorable mentions: - Men In Black - Galaxy Quest (I have to admit, I still haven't seen Wrath of Khan, but until that, Galaxy Quest is the best Star Trek movie for me) Michael Simshauser Ok, my top five for the last episode: 1) Alien, 2) 2001, 3) Sleeper, 4) The Day the Earth Stood Still & 5) The Last Starfighter Graeme McKenzie Did you run of movies? Good luck in the future guys Lisa Lyons NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! The top 5 of David and Lisa Lyons... 1: Aliens 2: Star Wars Empire Strikes Back 3: Star Trek Wrath of Khan 4: The Martian 5: District 9 - Guys, we just want to thank you for so many thought-provoking discussions, and a wonderful series of podcasts. I'm honestly going to miss your presence in the car on the way to and from work; and hope that whatever you end up doing works out well for you all! Hans-Kristian Moslund top 5: 1. Blade Runner, 2. The Matrix 3 : Edge Of Tomorrow 4. Aliens 5: Star Wars. will miss you guys - thanks for the great work - it made a difference Liz Irwin I'm so sad to see you guys go. Honestly one of my favorite all time podcasts. 1. Dune I can't narrow it down after that...but man, I'm so sad!! Jamie Piper No way ! So sad . Love your podcast.What about Earth Girls are Easy ? Scott Buchanan Star Wars (the original, still the best. And yes I know I'm showing my age) Blade Runner The Empire strikes back (running theme here) Star Trek the Undiscovered Country X-men Days of future past (it's borderline close enough for me) Thank you for the excellent work these past 140 episodes Kisses! Sooz Lee Ean Beecham Nooo! Why?! One of my favourite podcasts, listen to it while I'm commuting all the time, will be missed! John Sheehy All the best, and congratulations on an excellent podcast series that will be missed 1. X-Men 3: The Last Stand 2. Star Trek 2: Wrath of Khan 3. Star Wars 5: Empire Strikes Back 4. Aliens 5. Terminator 2: Judgement "Holding a Mirror Up to Society" 1. District 9 2. Robot & Frank 3. Cube 4. Ex-Machina 5. Gattaca Doug Ferguson Man, I'm going to miss this show. You guys helped me become a better podcaster myself. Plus HOURS and HOURS of entertainment and opinions. What a good run. Your show will be missed. Only 5 of the top Sci-fi movies?? Yikes! In no particular order... Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Children of Men Terminator 2: Judgement Day Alien Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back Pi'ilani Req I'm so sad that you're going dark. But, I have a list of five sci Fi movies I need to watch now The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast September 2016
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Kyran Mountain. Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan, Rem and Kyran discuss some films to avoid and other films we're looking forward to in coming months! Movie News: Jonathan: R2D2 Actor Kenny Baker passes away Restoration of the original Star Trek Enterprise Model Kyran: Impressions about Suicide Squad and a Ghostbusters sequel is unlikely Rem: Looking forward to The Circle and Arrival --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies to see: Jonathan: Robot Jox (1989) Rem: The Fourth Kind (2009) Kyran: Ghostbusters (2016) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies To Avoid: Jonathan: The Avengers (1998) The Original 70's Avengers Promo Kyran: Tron (1982) Rem: Gravity (2013) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast - August 2016
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon. Kyran is away this month due to a family emergency. We wish Kyran and his family all the best. Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss some films to avoid and other films we're looking forward to in coming months! Movie News: Jonathan: Debate and controversy over Sulu being gay. Should it matter? Rem: Latest on Alien 5 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies to see: Jonathan: Fantastic Voyage (1966) Rem: Circle (2015) and The Real History of Science Fiction --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies To Avoid: Jonathan and Rem: Independence Day: Resurgence (2016) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Listener Feedback Ton de Witte I don't care if Sulu is gay or not, like it is in the normal world. people are what they are. Saw deadpool on Blu ray now that was a funny entertaining movie, highly recommended. Ray R As for the Sulu thing it's seem a tough call to me but I have to come down ever so slightly on Takei's side here. I think it's changing Gene's vision of the character. Pegg responds to Takei's comments saying they picked an established character so we would already know the character and accept the character - frankly I think Pegg is underestimating the audience, we don't need to be made to like a character and then find out they're gay. I think for once society is ahead of Star Trek on this one and it wouldn't be blinked at to have a character be gay, I think this is only noteworthy because it's changing an existing character. I like the fact that they say it's normalized in the movie, like it's no big deal, but I'd prefer the real-world side of things had been equally normalized with a new character rather than what seems to a sort of strategy or trick to get people to like a gay Star Trek character. We don't need a trick, we need good writing and a good performance, that's what makes the difference between a token character and a 3 dimensional one. Scott Buchanan Saw Independence Day 2016 and I'll admit it was sloppy, trashy fun. When I saw it, it was exactly the mindless spectacle i needed to take my mind off other things. John Sheehy Star Trek movies can hit the ground running because while it is a reboot the characters are already defined for us, and they evolve to new events. They don't have the time to do something meaningful like the DS9 episode Rejoined, which focused on a society defining what is allowed and banning other types of loving relationships and this episode challenged views through storytelling. Dark Tower…. That story be slow but I'll stick with it based on last month's encouragement to get through to the other books. Been mostly re-watching Mr Robot - Season 1 and had very little sci-fi this month expect for the incredibly fun and enjoyable movie that is Independence Day ….. Yes I watched the 1996 again and I think I did myself a favour because I have a podcast to watch these terrible movies and create reviews that are probably more entertaining than actually having to watch the movie ….bit like a MST3K The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast - June 2016
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon, Kyran Mountain and Wayne Henderson from MediaVoiceOvers.com Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan, Rem and Kyran welcome Welcome Wayne Henderson from MediaVoiceOvers.com to discuss some movies to watch, some to avoid and other films we're looking forward to in coming months! Contact Wayne Henderson at Wayne@MediaVoiceOvers.com Movie News: Wayne: Filming of Stephen King's Dark Tower series has begun! Jonathan: Michael Straczynsky's Rising Stars gets optioned by MGM Kyran: Both Ghostbusters casts appear on Jimmy Kimmel James Rolfe refuses to review the new Ghostbusters Rem: Godzilla Resurgence being released in Japan at the end of July --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies to see: Wayne: Time after Time (1979) - Mary Steenburgen and Malcolm McDowell Jonathan: The Martian (2015) - Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig & Jeff Daniels Kyran: Edge Of Tomorrow (2015) - Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt Rem: Her (2013) - Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams and Scarlett Johansson --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Movies To Avoid: Wayne: Laserblast (1978) - Cheryl Smith and Kim Milford Jonathan: Battleship (2012) - Taylor Kitch, Rihanna and Alexander Skarsgard Kyran: X-Men: Apocalypse (2016) - Jennifer Lawrence, Michael Fassbender & Jame McAvoy Rem: Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007) - Steven Pasquale, Reiko Aylesworth & John Oritz --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Listener Feedback Will Neville Hey guys - Was just curious if you planned on changing the format on the podcast? The new format contains a lot of spoilers of newer movies that I haven't seen yet. Alicia Postigo Hey guys, I just listened to the last podcast and Jonathan got the pronunciation of my last name right the first time, just FYI. Keep up the awesome pod-casting. Ray R I'd love to hear your thoughts on the whole Ghostbusters fiasco. There doesn't seem to be much redeeming about the movie except for Kate McKinnon, Cecily Strong, Chris Hemsworth, Andy Garcia, and Nate Corddry all but one of whom appear to be minor characters. Previously I had no intention of seeing the film because it just doesn't look like it would be any good but I've actively soured on the film since the internet lost it's mind over James Rolfe not wanting to see it. http://cinemassacre.com/2016/05/17/ghostbusters-2016-no-review-i-refuse/ The backlash to Rolfe's completely reasonable video that has nothing to do with gender has made it such that if you don't want to see Ghostbusters you're automatically sexist regardless of your reasons. I plan to have a movie marathon weekend when Ghostbusters comes out and see every other movie in theatres except Ghostbusters while wearing my Cinemassacre t-shirt. A quiet protest for the voice of reason. If I go see Finding Dory on Ghostbuster's opening for reasons having nothing to do with gender or identity am I still sexist? Do people really reveal the content of their character by the movies they watch? Liz Irwin The level of anticipation I have towards The Dark Tower movie is hard to quantify. I truly believed nobody would ever try to make it into a movie or series. It's an epic tale and I'm beyond thrilled with the casting of Roland, a little nervous regarding McConaughey. Nick Jensen I love the Dark Tower series, well the first four are amazing, but as far as the movie goes I'm not really holding my breath. History has shown that Hollywood has not been able to adapt King well at all, unless your name is Frank Darabont or Rob Reiner, and being as expansive and non-traditional as the Dark Tower is I could see this not working out. That being said, I will probably see it because I'm a huge Stephen King fan. The movie I'm most looking forward to is Jason Bourne, I know it's not sci-fi but it's the one I'm looking forward to the most, and I'm still very interested in Suicide Squad even though I'm getting a bit of comic book movie fatigue. Movies to avoid: Goosebumps, loved the books as a kid and picked it up to watch while drinking a couldn't finish it; Legend with Tom Hardy, not sci-fi but I love Tom Hardy but could only watch about 30 minutes of this there was no storyline whatsoever, very disappointing. John Sheehy John Sheehy I've been looking forward to the Ghostbusters since I first heard about it. Don't know if Starbuck is going to make a cameo but this cast have made some really good comedy movies. Whatever this thing on the internet is I've been trying to ignore it, I'm going to blindly call both sides idiots, the movie isn't out yet. Disappointed with X-Men, it seems flat and I felt it's been twisted in the direction of a Young Adult Franchise Cash-cow. Warcraft is the best collection of actors to ever have we want to leave a movie….a few nice moments but it was tough going. The King and Queen however do look promising in the first episode of Preacher….Ruth Negga was in an Irish cult hit and delighted to see her get bigger roles than just helping Brad Pitt figure out how to stop Zombie's My Sci-fi recommendation is for everyone to watch Repo Men for all the health care questions and I'm also going to recommend Eye in the Sky. (Drone movie with Helen Mirren et al) I think we all grew up watching movies exploring how we will react and use technology in the future and this movie follows a familiar approach. Also it serves as a reminder that we are now living in the not-to-distant future when we can wage war from thousands of miles. Please spend some time to consider that rather than on an internet tantrum over a reboot. I don't just mean the war aspect but also, if Eye in the Sky was released 20/30 years ago it would have been classed as a Sci Fiction and today it's just mainstream drama. US Army Video MAV - Micro Aerial Vehicles https://youtu.be/_5YkQ9w3PJ4 Regarding the format change: Chris Williams I loved the new format, you guys are excellent. Something I would enjoy is a section for good indie/smaller film recommendations. Movies you have enjoyed that we may not have heard of. Anyway thanks for all of the effort you put it, fantastic show :) Michael Simshauser Can't say I'm a fan of the new format. Firstly although I wonder if a name change to the podcast maybe in order ? A majority of the beginning of the show was dedicated to talking about Warcraft and Captain America-Civil War. While I am interested in seeing Warcraft and have already seen Civil War, to me they are Fantasy and Superheroes and strictly not Science Fiction. I applaud you for trying something new but I believe it needs more tweaking especially if you are looking at expansion. And the echo that was on Rem's audio throughout the episode also detracted from the episode as well. I have been listening to you guys for awhile now and have found many great films and podcasts because of your podcast and I hope that you can return to your halcyon days soon. Robert Sedler I prefer the old format, mostly because I could easily avoid spoilers by selecting episodes for films I had seen, skipping any and all discussion of films I had not seen yet. Because I really dislike modern movie theaters (mostly because of modern movie audiences) I won't be seeing films like CA:CW or Deadpool until I can rent them. When the discussion this week covered these films I heard a spoiler or two and was then forced to pull the plug on this week's podcast. I appreciate the need to evolve, but I really do prefer a more in-depth look at one film rather than covering so many at a time. Will Neville Sorry guys, but I think I prefer the old format as well. Spoilers are the main issue for me. Is there anything you guys can do about that? Perhaps a spoiler-free version? Other podcasts that I listen to do this. A great example is the Game of Thrones The Podcast by Bald Move. They provide a separate spoiler-free episode that only discusses the TV show and none f the book spoilers. Hans-Kristian Moslund First - you guys are rock-stars, really enjoy the show. And thank you for taking the risk to explore new frontiers, and bold. :-). .. . What worked for me in the new format; - reminded me a bit of a great hang-out with friends, talking about movies - i loved Jonathan doing the interview - i liked that you talked about 'new stuff' coming up, and also some visits to the pasts (what to re-watch and what to avoid) - in general - your podcast is the best Sci-Fi show in town, defacto the gold standard. - great with guests, but really enjoy having 2 key hosts. Some ideas that I could suggest for consideration ; - maybe introduce a bit more tight format with 3-4 sections, without losing the great relaxed setting - suggestions could be : what's coming up / what are you guys excited about. What have you rewatched and enjoyed (with the same format as before the change - but like 20 min or so). - And I would really really like a "series pilot episodes rewatch", where you looked into the premise for a new, old, failed series (the castle, expanse, bsg, dr.who, the 100, B5, dome etc.etc) and also discussed what universe / worldview the serie represented. - have a 5 - 10 min "fun" segment, discussing "biggest ships", "biggest guns", "strangest creature", "stupidst plot", "best suit". Sci Fi technology that has become real, or coming. - Also, suggest the "top 3-5" things that our friends from "game of microphone" uses when you review stuff. - there are a lot of podcast about 'super guys movies' (e.g. total geekcall), you are the kings of sci-fi, so i have you as nr 1 podcast for that reason. the super guys stuff also is fun, but I would always hope to hear more about sci-fi than super-guy´s stuff from your show. John Sheehy Hey guys, the new format is great with all the wandering conversions. It's more a different show from the same team rather than a different format but there is so much going on in SciFi/Fantasy/Superhero movies at the moment, it's great your covering it all and I like the mix of guests. Culturally Ill Podcast An unlikely endeavor of insignificant proportions, we will strive to bring you a podcast that takes a look at films and television shows of cultural importance. When we fail at that, we'll bring you a podcast bad-mouthing and fanboying (or girling) our favorite and least favorite movies and shows! The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast - June 2016
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon, Bonnie B. and Kyran Mountain Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem welcome Bonnie and Kyran to discuss upcoming movies, what we've seen lately in theatres, some suggestions for classic Sci-Fi Movies to watch... and some to avoid! What We're Looking Forward To: Kyran: - The New Warcraft Movie https://worldofwarcraft.com/en-us/start Bonnie: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Jonathan: Star Trek Beyond Rem: Alien: Covenant Neil Blomkamp's Alien 5 What We've Seen Recently Deadpool and Captain America: Civil War Here's a Sci-Fi Classic to Watch Kyran: Ender's Game (2013) Bonnie: The Black Hole (1979) Jonathan: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) Rem: Demon Seed (1977) Here's a Sci-Fi Clunker to avoid Kyran: They Live (1988) Jonathan: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2014) Rem: The Box (2009) Listener Feedback Hans-Kristian Moslund Looking forward to; “star trek beyond”, as I actually really like the reboot. And did I read that the tv-series are starting again? Wonder how that is going to be. x-men apocalypse” is also on my budget. I didn't really enjoy civil-war, so I am betting on Apocalypse to get me excited. I actually look forward to compare “apocalypse” with “dawn-of-justice”, so I can make up my mind if I am to stay on team DC, or shift to team Marvel. Want to watch; Might want to rewatch “dark city” again, haven't seen it since release, but would really like to explore in hindsight if that actually was a good movie or not. I am not really sure what to expect here. Avoid; not sure – but how about a recommendation. I got into “the expanse” series – and liked it. I would actually really appreciate to hear the Sci-Fi gurus take on “essential Sci-Fi series”. Ton de Witte Looking forward : Dr. Strange Recently : X men days of future past, I just didn't get around to watching the blu ray but because Age of Apocalypse came out I thought it time Classic : blade runner which of the 5 versions I don't know. Avoid: I rarely avoid a sci fi movie but one of the worst I have seen was Star crash I think however that I might like it now as a camp movie. Jordan at The Night Time Podcast says: @ScifiMovieGuys i'd love to see more classic film discussion, and of course more episodes. how about return of the living dead? I appreciate the great work you do. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast - May 2016
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss The Road from 2009 and directed by John Hillcoat. Listener Feedback Liz Irwin This is one of those incredibly depressing movies. It was a really well done film but not one I can watch more than once. Sue Lavictoire Read the book and saw the movie only years ago and as usual they were different but they were good. Robert Sedler The Road is one of the best post-apocalyptic films to come out of a genre that's had its fair share of both highs and lows. Bleak, colorless, and unforgiving, the raw landscape of the world is all too believable. Add some fantastic acting performances into the mix and you have essential Sci--Fi viewing. (Great Podcast, guys, keep up the good work!) Jordan Bonaparte A dark and painful movie/book to watch/read, as a father I find some beauty in the relationship between the main characters, but as a human living amongst other humans I find the story and setting very believable, and that's scary as hell. I would say this is a much watch for anyone into dystopian fiction... Beautifully tragic. Seth Heasley Love it, but don't really want to watch it again. Being a father, this hits really close to home. Josh Adams (from the ‘I Hate Critics' Podcast) For all of the critical talk about despair, drab colors, and lack of life in The Road, I found quite a bit to hold onto. Viggo Mortensen's performance as the father, doing everything he can to maintain some semblance of reality for his child, is completely unheralded. Maybe it's his gaunt frame, maybe it's his piercing visage, but I found a new depth to him as an actor that Eastern Promises and Lord of the Rings had previously not roused in me. I found myself in his shoes, feeling the tension the entire film, waiting for something awful to happen to him or his son. That tension and the bleak nature of the world around them lent more power to the few glimpses of joy the film gives them. When you consider the post-apocalyptic genre, substance usually sits in the far back with respect to style. Director John Hillcoat crafted a substantive film from Cormac McCarthy's novel that I felt a part of, bleak or not. It is a film that I felt was far more what our current world would produce than The Walking Dead or something similar. I hate to speak of this feeling as something only I own, but the father-son dynamic between Mortensen and Smit-McPhee is, I feel, an excellent representation of all the feelings all fathers have for their sons. The need to protect, the need to teach, the need to pass on. Those 'survivalist' feelings, to me, run parallel to the way our world has always been, and the film seems to understand that. Ergo, as the father and the son go, so does the world. It's not a feeling exclusive to parents, or fathers for that matter, but it's certainly something I feel strongly about, and something that seems to be instinctive. I love this film, and I feel very strongly that it is an unheralded, subtle masterpiece. Alicia Postigo Hey guys! First, I love your show. Second, I enjoyed this this movie very much - of course I love Viggo Mortensen so I'm not very objective. The movie is very touching. I was surprised when I first saw it because I don't usually dig post-apocalyptic movies, but the father-son relationship got me. My favorite quote is "You carry the fire [What fire?] The one inside you." The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Road
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss Sunshine from 2007 and directed by Danny Boyle. Listener Feedback Jennifer RobertsonI did like this movie, even though it was a bit of a slow burn. I don't think it is Boyle's best movie but I did like the casting, especially Cillian Murphy and and Captain America. My biggest problem with the movie is that it uses ideas from sci-fi movies that Boyle loves in a way that makes them feel "copied" rather than "inspired". When the crew found out the captain of the first mission went all biblical and they all died I thought I was watching Event Horizon. All in all I would call the film a bit of a miss, but I forgive it a lot because I think Danny Boyle put a lot into it. (Except research about how the sun works, apparently!!) Paul DudleyReally enjoyed the first two thirds of this movie . However the last third when it turned into a gory slasher type movie put me off . Ton de WitteEntertaining movie but the last slasher part could have been left out. Clear inspiration from classic sci fi movies and that makes it a strange mix so the movie lacks its own identity. Not the best sci fi movie but nice enough to watch it. Doug FergusonSunshine was a rare treat in the theatres; a visual masterpiece. The tone is one of the strongest points of the film, a mix of wonderment and high tension. The third act falters a bit, but it didn't ruin the movie for me.Though I am a little sick of the trope of religious people being insane and sabotaging missions in the name of God. It's too easy and paints a very negative picture of people of faith. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Sunshine
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem have a quick chat about Batman V Superman. The Positive Very much a movie geared toward an audience that is already knowledgeable in the Batman and Superman lore. The Negative This isn't a Marvel movie. It's darker and and doesn't have to light, quippy dialogue you'll find in the Marvel movies. If you don't know the comics, it'll be tougher to follow the story. Listener Feedback Audrey SrodI enjoyed your chat. As a non-comic book reader, I did not enjoy this movie. I found the first 75% of the film to suck and the last 25% was ok. I did like Holly Hunter and Wonder Women. I give DC credit for doing something new, we have never seen Superman die before. I am was intrigued enough by the end that I may see the next film that comes about. Question-? Superman is going to comeback to life, so how will Clark Kent explain that he is alive to non-family members, i.e. Perry White?John SheehyThis movie starts with convection of character and intimacy in relationships and then you realize an hour has past and nothing has happened. I liked that the three leads believed in what they were doing but wonder woman does nothing but walk around, the change from enemies to bff was ridiculously quick and superman's death is completely hollow as its common knowledge that he will back for lots more movies...Awful Movie? ... YesEssential Viewing... Definitely. (that's a first)There are so many good things in this movie for me ruined by the decisions to jam in characters and jump start the DC bandwagon MCU.2 needlessly destroyed buildings out of 10 Hans-Kristian MoslundThank you for putting the chat up there - I enjoyed your thoughts on this one. I grew up as a DC fan - left the universe in my early 20ties , and briefly picked up interest again with "death of superman". I really liked this movie, and to me a couple of points came across very clear. This was really meant to be a comic-book in a movie format, and the key scenes still stuck in my head framed as classic comic books boxes. The overload of heroes and fights ---- well, that is actually what I saw in my old comics Also, this was absolutely more for the DC fans than the critics, and I was happy with the gamble the franchise took – must more daring and relevant that the other boring superman stuff from the past. No doubt that viewers new to the universe struggled. I must admit that i had to do some research after viewing to full understand some of the points - but that is actually ok for me. Anyways, I think that the platform is now established, and o-boy – can not wait to see what is in store for us. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Batman V Superman Quick chat
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem finally talk about the movie Rem has been resisting, 'Dude, Where's my Car?', from 2000 and directed by Danny Leiner. Initial Ratings (0 to 10)Jonathan: 3.0 Shibby'sRem: -12 raised to the power 9 Special Treaters The Positive Jonathan enjoyed this movie, and Rem only begrudgingly watched it this week. Dude had a few laugh worthy moments and it'll have a strong nostalgia pull for people who saw it when they were younger. The Negative The target viewer here is a 10 boy, so older audiences won't relate. It's not a great movie, and you'll have to turn off your brain to enjoy it. Verdict Certainly not essential viewing, but it's got a few laughs. If you're over 15 year old, skip it. The Survivor Fans Podcast with Jo Ann & Stacy More information about Trepanning Listener Feedback Luca FenuIremember seeing it, but honestly nothing else beside a general sense of amusement... Was there any sci-fi there??? really? Ray RAliens and Brent Spiner - it's scifi... I saw this with Jon. We were on our first road trip to the US and stopped to see this at a semi-abandoned mall. A fight broke out in the theatre before the movie started and people were arrested so we felt we were getting the authentic american movie-going experience. When the guys jump into Brent Spiner's compound and proclaim "there's something very Canadian about this place" we were the only ones who laughed - it was awkward. After the movie we couldn't find his car. We didn't watch this movie, we lived it. Doug FergusonIt's been too long since I've seen this to have much to say, but I'm just really entertained that you guys are actually reviewing it. Ton de WitteDefinitely not high scifi art, but it has aliens in it and some funny moments. Dude where's my podcast? Steve FergusonI can't help but love this film, and see it as the heir apparent to the Bob Hope / Bing Crosby "Road" movies ("Road To Bali", "Road To Rio", etc). Just...without the singing. Accept it's a silly comedy, and you'll be just fine. Actually, maybe it should have been a musical. That would have been something...right? Cory MetcalfeYeah, it's a bit stupid but I liked this movies. It made me laugh. So I'll file this under guilty pleasure The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Dude Where's my Car?
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss The Top 5 Sci-Fi Robots in Film and Television. We also discuss the differences between Robots, Androids and Cyborgs. We'll talk about your favorite Robots and ours! Jonathan's Top 5 Robots Data from 'Star Trek: The Next Generation R2D2 from 'Star Wars' WALL-E Ash from 'Alien' The Iron Giant Honorable Mentions C-3PO, Optimus Prime, The Robot from 'Lost in Space', Gort, Johnny 5 Rem's Top 5 Robots The Terminator Cylon Centurions Gort from 'The Day The Earth Stood Still' ED-209 from 'RoboCop' WALL-E Honorable Mentions Huey, Dewey and Louie from 'Silent Running', Maria from Metropolis, The Replicants from 'Blade Runner', Johnny Sokko and his Flying Robot, Marvin from The Hitchhiker's Guide, Gerty 3000 from 'Moon', The Gunslinger from 'Westworld', Johnny 5 from 'Short Circuit', Sid 6.7 from 'Virtuosity, Mark13 from 'Hardware' and MechaGodzilla! What if R2D2 has subtitles? Johnny Sokko and his Flying Robot Listener Feedback Brian CampbellCherry 2000 Ton de WitteTwiggy from Buck Rogers in the 25th century Nick MillerAndrew from 'Bicentennial Man'ED-209 from 'Robocop'The Replicants from 'Blade Runner'Box from 'Logan's Run'The Police in 'THX-1138'Beta (the replacement alex) from 'The Last Starfighter'Johnny Cab from Total RecallRobot Bill and Ted from Bogus JourneyFembots from Austin PowersSentinels from 'The Matrix'I, Robot... any of themTet from Oblivion?Baymax from Big Hero 6TARS and CASE from Interstellarand lastly....Freakin' Ultron from Avengers! Stefan KanzokDear Jonathan and Rem, recently discovered your podcast and enjoyed previous episodes tremendously! Here a some robots/machines that I did not see on the list:Chip and his squad (from Small soldiers)Eve (from Wall-E) in fact ALL the robots from Wall-E (favorites: the little cleaning guy, the boxing robot)Andrew (from the Bicentennial man)Data (Star Trek)Maximillian (from The black hole) One more thing about (menacing) robots: Did anyone see the trailer for "Kill Command"? If not - check it out here: http://themoviebox.net/8689 Mark Des CotesThe Sentinels from X-Men: Days of Future Past, V.I.N.C.E.N.T., B.O.B. and Maximilian from Disney's The Black Hole. Bair InnokentevInterstellar has some really innovative robots named TARS, CASE and KIPP, with their unusual body shape and incredible functionality. I wonder whether they are sentient or not?I would also like to mention Maximillian from the Black Hole, Jaegers from the Pacific Rim and ABC robot from the Judge Dredd (1995).Oh, and finally, does Optimus Prime count as a robot? Sue LavictoireCan't remember her name but the one from the Jetsons cartoon (Rosie the Robot) Liz IrwinMy all time favorite is Bender. Cylon's, Wall-e and C3PO. Data is my favorite Android. Nick JensenI gotta go with Bender as well, he's the best. Then probably The Terminator. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Ex Machina - Sci Fi Movie Podcast
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss "Ex Machina" from 2015 and directed by Alex Garland.Initial Ratings (0 to 10)Jonathan: 9.0 Creepy RobotsRem: 9.1 Broken Robotic Limbs The Positive Ex Machina is a perfect example of great Sci-Fi, and is absolutely essential viewing. Rem loved the cast, and Oscar Isaac in particular. Jonathan really enjoyed the music score, and found it perfect for the mood of the story being told. The Negative Ex Machina is not a fast paced action movie, and requires the viewer to really pay attention. In a world of bigger and faster, it might be tough to watch by younger audiences. Verdict Possibly one of the most important films we've discussed on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast. This is a fascinating exploration about the relationship between Humanity and Technology, and it's one of our best examples of essential Sci-Fi viewing. Learn more about The Turing Test Book Reference "Embodiment and the Inner Life: Cognition and Consciousness in the Space of Possible Minds" Other Films similar to "Ex Machina" Moon Robot & Frank The Tinder Experiment A Robot Wedding in Japan Humans Marrying Robots? Listener Feedback Fox SterlingI think some people will be marrying robots but the majority of us will stick to people. By the time we all can marry them they will have already taken over and wiped out humanity. Except for one ragtag group of resisters led by a man named John Connor. Jennifer RobertsonOf all the possible fears there are in the sci-fi universe, robots and AI are not high on my threat list. I've seen how far we have come in robot technology (and it is underwhelming to say the least) and if my predictive text and auto correct on my cell phone is any indication, the AI isn't that much ahead of it. Bandrew ScottThis is one of those films that prove, you don't need large casts, huge sets, or massive explosions to make a good film. This is a prime example of what can be accomplished with good vision. Not only is the story telling amazing, but the set design is gorgeous, the special effects are seamless, and the acting is as flawless as you can get. All around, one of my favorite SciFi films of all time. Absolutely essential SciFi viewing. Jamie PiperLove this film , it's deep thought provoking and haunting. Special effects are great on such a small budget and Oscar issacs dance scene is the best . As for robots leading to humanity's down fall , who cares if their this hot ! Great work on the podcast guys , still the best ! Russ LaytonSurrogates Erik FetenI enjoyed it, but it didn't bowl me over the way it did for so many others. I may have gone into it with too many expectations. Michael SimshauserWill most likely be watching this weekend as its a 99c rental on ITunes Australia. Nick JensenMarrying robots? Probably, I think a guy in Japan legally married a sex pillow so this is definitely in our future. This movie is amazing, it embodies what great sci-fi should be; awesome thought provoking story with amazing special effects. Love when an original movie like this comes around, makes me proud to be a sci-fi fan. James Rogershaunting future...goooood movie Jim GoodmanI didn't enjoy this film as much as I wanted to. I had heard nothing but good things about it before seeing it. For me this is just another Frankenstein retelling with a fresh CGI coat of paint. Good performances and beautiful sets did not make up for this 200 year old story that has been done to death. Bobby RafuseWell, after watching for the first time with my brother today I can say we were both digging from start to end. Great performances from the cast. I'm now going to have to check out the anime it's based from Appleseed. As for the question of AI. I think it's a door we probably shouldn't be knocking on so quickly. This movie kinda shows that a little haha I almost see it as an inevitable that they would end up revolting & destroy us with the way our race is. Daniele TottleSpoiler alert, don't read this comment if you have not seen the movie /// I thought the movie had great potential and did a lot of things right. Great setting with a strong opening story and a beautiful photography/cinematography. But it fell short in the final act due to the characters. The performances were great but writing-wise Nathan and Caleb were so one-dimensional and absurd that when they died i could not care less. Ava was written better, a deeper character for sure, but when she started her killing spree i felt violently pulled out of the story and even a little insulted. It seemed like the writers had a brilliant movie in mind but could not find a decent ending that didn't involve the most cliché final act of all time. Eager to hear what you guys thought about it. It's great listening to you, don't ever stop sci-fiing! Bob ZerullEx Machina is a masterpiece. A24 is knocking it out of the park with movies like this, Enemy, Under the Skin smile emoticon and The Witch. This movie should've been nominated for an Oscar. Brian CampbellJonathan is already married, but there's hope for you Remi! Todd E. Waters @ScifiMovieGuys Enjoyed it, but not sure what all the fuss was about. Perhaps I missed the point. Karlis from England dropped us an email... Hi Remi and Jonathan, I don't tend to write in about each film but after seeing this one recently i just had to write something about it because it felt like something a bit different. I absolutely loved it. Not just for the wonderful dialogue and clever plot that kept me guessing all the way through as i flip flopped between who had the power and who to trust but it was wonderfully made from the bottom up. The subtle touches were wonderfully clever and thought out. It starts with sweeping overhead shots showing the vast wilderness before leading us into the small claustrophobic and controlled world of Nathan done to show us the stark contrast between the two worlds. One full of life and unruly the other plain and mechanical. The use of colour is a wonderful touch. With the red of the power outage actually giving is a hint that this is dangerous. I wondered at the end if ava leaving caleb at the end was due to a lack of empathy or of it was that she partly felt that he would jeopardize her freedom or because maybe she felt so little for him she didn't even care enough to finish him off. Where as she wanted to end Nathan's story. Aside from the story I think this could be a decision made by the filmmakers to show the seduction of technology and how its advancement and progress could lead to our entrapment losing some of our freedom, which is sort of like everyone being buried in their phones. The subtext about society and the questions of what it means to be alive gives this film a lot of depth and a lot to think about afterwards but really what i love about this film is the performances, the pace and the slow development of the plot. As Caleb learns more so do we as viewers and due to this fact the end is a surprise because it's the first time we have not been shown exactly what Caleb is seeing. Overall this is a wonderfully made film deserving of the plaudits it got.I think this should be viewed as essential sci fi viewing. All the best Karlis (Leicestershire, England) The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Ex Machina - Sci Fi Movie Podcast
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem dig deeper into Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines from 2003 and directed by Jonathan Mostow. Listener Feedback Shane WestI've been a huge fan of the show since I heard about it on The Walking Deadcast. I'm a huge fan of the Terminator franchise in that it made me want to study history due to it's Cold War themes. Basically, this franchise is one of the reasons I became a History Professor. As it pertains to Terminator 3, I have to say that this is in no way, shape, or form essential sci-fi viewing. Besides the fact that there were some essential continuity errors (ie//Arnold is a T-800 Cyberdyne Series Model 101 NOT a T-101 and that John was 10 years old during the events of T2 NOT 13), this film spits in the face of a wonderful story. T2 was the perfect ending of that story. Even though T2 ended in uncertainty, you couldn't help but have unbridled hope in the future. Because of T3, I wish they would have used the original ending. T3 neutralized all the sacrifices made in T2. (i.e.// Uncle Bob and Miles Dyson) Those two died for absolutely nothing. With the first 2 movies, I was emotionally invested in the characters. Even today, after seeing these movies over and over again, I still hold out hope for Kyle. I still get emotional when Uncle Bob gives one final thumbs up as he's consumed by the molten steel. I don't get that from T3. The plot is full of holes. Judgement Day is inevitable!? Really!? What was all that “there is no fate but what we make ourselves” talk? T3 left me cheated. Instead of the perfect ending to a franchise in T2, we have this followed by Christian Bale grunting for 2 hours pretending to be John Connor. The only positives we got out of this were The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Terminator Genisys (yes, I loved that flick). Can we just pretend that T3 just doesn't exist? Ray RThis isn't the kind of film people feel strongly about. I enjoyed it and it has some rewatchability but "love" is a bridge too far. I don't think it lived up to the legacy of T2 but it was an entertaining and amusing film in it's own right. The ending was a nice twist but it's so late in the movie before the film takes any real risks by that point it's almost too late to really matter. That said, the twist does have a classic sci-fi feel to it - like a good Outer Limits episode from the 90s.Best Line Of The Film (also known as the "Jimmy Shaker Day", ask Jon): "Next time bring a clue, not a paintball gun" Mitch ToddI never engaged with the characters, so I never cared what happened. It just seemed to miss. Jim GoodmanT3 is not an awful movie, but it pales in comparison to the two films that came before it. It kinda breaks/bends the "rules" that were set in the previous movies, but they had to to make this a film franchise. With the time in between the releases of T2 and T3, I would have hoped that a stronger story would have evolved, but the plot just seems to be a bit of a rehash of what came before and that was disappointing. The T-X lacks the character menace of the T-1000, but the action sequences in the film are very well done. Brian CampbellIt's tired. It's been done. The only change in the "Kill John Connor" story is we finally get to see the Apocalypse happen at the end, but even still we don't get to see a large scale war between humans and machines. By the way, the lead actor was totally miscast. Hard to believe this mousy guy becomes the leader of mankind. Ton de WitteBasically a rehash of T2 with some T1 injected. An enjoyable rehash nevertheless but nothing special. Michael SimshauserI saw this movie gratis during my brief tenure in recruitment and I'm glad I didn't pay to see it. Still more enjoyable than Terminator Salvation and a clearer story than Terminator Genisys. Not required sci-fi viewing but an mildly enjoyable sci-fi action movie with a kind of downer ending. Nick JensenThe Rise of the Machines is the beginning of Hollywood rehashing great original material and making an underwhelming franchise out of what were two of the best sci-fi movies ever, as they love to do. Some of the storylines were interesting and intriguing; I liked the TX going after people other than John Connor and killing his lieutenants as teenagers, the sub-plot of the terminator in this film being used to assassinate John was pretty cool, and I get a guilty pleasure out of the amped up chase scene with the firetruck and crane truck. Probably the biggest mistake of this movie is the casting of Nick Stahl as John Connor...he is not a good actor and completely not believable as the leader of the human resistance, the future scene with him and his scar makes me laugh every time. If a better actor had been cast as John it would've improved this film a lot. I view Terminator and T2 completely separately from the rest of the 'Terminator' films, the original two are amazing and sci-fi classics that everyone should see. From Rise of the Machines on the series is definitely NOT essential viewing, but I can watch this movie and be entertained by what it is; not even in the same league as 1 and 2 but still enjoyable enough to turn your brain off and watch. Doug FergusonThe main problem with this film is that it shouldn't exist. Terminator 2 was the ideal ending for the series, but the studio just keeps milking the premise.That being said, it's actually an entertaining film. Some of those action sequences are amazing, like the destruction of that highway as Arnold is hanging from that truck. So impossible... so much fun. You just have to get over the fact that this film ruins the significance of T2's ending.Not a big fan of the T-X. Couldn't match the menace of the T-1000 despite being the newer, hotter model, so to speak. Bill MadiaWhat I liked about this film was the concept of the apocalypse being unavoidable. As far as recycling plot elements from earlier films, if time travel IS a possibility, the machines, just to be sure, would use it to send agents back to various time periods in the hope that ONE will succeed. I also liked that John Connor did not want the responsibility that he was destined for. To me, it added a dimension to an archetype we rarely see. Luke Skywalker, Paul Atreides, Harry Potter, etc. all accept their destinies. It took years of convincing, alone in a bunker with his soon-to-be wife to make him into the fighter he became. Is it essential viewing? Not really, but it is a good extension of the story. In my opinion. John Sheehy1 Pair of Cracked Sunglasses out of 5 from me, for this awful movie. Topher Grace would have made a more convincing John Connors. I was surprised you gave this film a full podcast. It would probably be best featured in a "Top 5 Movies from Essential Franchises that are Not Essential Viewing"… For me this is the Alien: Resurrection of the Terminator series Jennifer RobertsonUtterly forgettable. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Terminator 3
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem dig deeper into Man of Steel from 2013 and directed by Zack Snyder. Listener Feedback Scott BuchananI'm not a Superman fan so didn't have problems or expectations that fans did. I was fine with SM killing when he was given no other choice. Maybe this is the genesis of his no killing ever rule. It felt physical. It had impact. I enjoyed it. I know I'm in the minority. David ZapantaI have very mixed feelings about this movie. On the one hand, I liked that Superman was perceived as an extraterrestrial, an unknowable quantity to be feared by the average citizen. On the other hand, though, Clark was a bit too brooding and the movie on the whole not as lighthearted as it could have or should have been. Brooding works for Batman, not so much the Man of Steel. Destroying Metropolis, killing Zod—these don't dovetail very well with the idea of Superman as an ultimate force for good. I did like seeing a bit more of Krypton, but this part of the story felt like it belonged in an entirely different movie. Man of Steel is not essentially viewing in my opinion. Glad you're covering it, though, and curious to hear your thoughts. Anthony RooneyI enjoyed it as a generic superhero movie but, for me, that superhero wasn't Superman. Hope-man maybe? Bob ZerullThe further I get away from this movie the more I dislike it. That said, they had to redefine Superman here, because the Superman we all grew up with doesn't hold up in today. So while I didn't like it I thought it did a good job setting up the next movie...unfortunately I'm not confident that the next one is going to be any good. Brian CampbellI guess I've always had a problem with the Superman character, after all he's the superhero to end all superheroes with a larger selection of powers than Batman's utility belt. That being said, while I found this movie a little difficult to engage with emotionally, I DID like a few of the updates to the story. Here are some of my Likes and Dislikes:Liked: Positioning Clark Kent as an alien threat. I found that to be a more believable reaction from the government than in the past.Liked: Henry Cavill's portrayal of Superman. A little more serious, but this movie has a serious threat, not a comical Gene Hackman or Richard Pryor. I can't blame Cavill for that.Liked: The villains. The Kryptonian villains did a great job representing an understandable threat and their motivation was clear.Liked: The special effects. Zac Snyder knows his stuff.Didn't Like: The script. The story just kind of failed to engage on many levels.Didn't Like: Jonathan Clark waving off into a tornado. Seriously? Let your dad die on the off chance that someone might see some heroic shenanigans?Didn't Like: The massive amounts of destruction. Yeah, weird, but you basically disintegrate the Earth's core and that's it. Game over. There was no coming back for mankind. Plus, I kept yelling at the screen "GET OUT OF THE CITY, YOU MORON!".Didn't Like: The glasses-on/glasses-off master-disguise of Clark Kent, but I never do. Jim GoodmanI could have easily watched a film based around Russell Crowe playing Superman's father. To me, the first 20 minutes of this movie were the most interesting as I enjoyed this new take on the Superman mythos. As for the rest of the movie, this darker take on the character takes out the innocence of the character that I enjoyed in the previous incarnations. The question of "was the neck snap at the end necessary" will be carried around as much as "who shot first"? Was it needed for the tortured soul aspect of Superman that they were trying to accomplish in this movie - yes. Is it a good reflection of the innocence of the character that I liked in the other Superman films - no. I would have also liked to have seen another solo Superman effort before the release of Dawn of Justice. Ton de WitteI enjoyed it, good production and well acted. What I didn't like was that it had the origin of superman. You would think that after the previous films and TV series it was a known story. I also didn't like the rehash of Zod from superman II it looked like a whole chunk of that movie was pasted into this one. Also the movie went on to long the whole last fight was unnecessary. All in all entertaining movie but could have been much more. Bill MadiaFor me, the main thing I felt this film lacked was a sense of wonder. The 1978 film had a tagline of "You'll believe a man can fly." Watching THAT film today, with its antiquated visual effects, still leaves the viewer with a sense of wonder! AND a big smile on your face! Also, a major contributor to that sense is the music of John Williams!! Almost 40 years later, you can still hum the theme. Now, only three years later, can you hum Hans Zimmer's theme? I could go on, but I'll leave it at that. Great show, by the way. Nick JensenI agree with Brian and Ton's comments overall. There were good parts, Henry Cavill playing a big, muscular and serious Superman that was seen as an alien threat by the government was nice. But rehashing the origins was tiresome, and unnecessary; I'm not a huge Superman fan but even I know all about his origins. Seems like they can't quite nail down the Superman character in the new reboots, hoping that Supes v Bats is better but I'm not really holding my breath; really looking forward to Suicide Squad which is new territory not just retreading old material. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Man of Steel
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem have gathered your suggestions and theirs, and made the definitive list of the Sci-Fi Movies that you don't need to watch. You can skip them and move on to better movies! Jonathan and Rem's combined list: Battleship Battlefield Earth 2012 Armageddon Under The Skin Jonathan's list: Battlefield Earth Battleship Armageddon The Adventures of Pluto Nash The Core Rem's list: 2012 Under the Skin Armageddon Battleship Skyline Listener list: Battlefield Earth Johnny Mnemonic Cowboys and Aliens Waterworld List to our discussion of Plan 9 from Outer Space Listener Feedback Christina SmithWell number 1 on my list would be Guardians of the Galaxy. I couldn't evenwatch 20 minutes of that nonsense! Also, Howard the Duck and Mac and Me Robin EssOblivion. What a mess of tired cliches and paper women. Bob Bhatia In no particular order:Johnny MnemonicLawnmower Man 2: Beyond CyberspaceBattlefield EarthMasters of the UniverseHighlander 2: The Quickening Seth HeasleyI'm tempted to put Interstellar on the list based on how disappointing I found it, but I'll relent and go with the more obvious choices:The TNG Star Trek Movies (yes, all of them, including First Contact)Star Trek The Motion PictureStar Trek VThe Matrix SequelsJudge Dredd (skip it and go with the remake, which is something one rarely says) Kelly A. BeamAlien Resurrection Ray R.Battlefield Earth Hans-Kristian MoslundElysium, Battleship, waterworld, Irobot, Cowboys and aliens Scott ChappelStar Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace. The Matrix Revolutions, Cowboys and Aliens. Lost In Space movie. It's easy to make a bad movie with no budget, but films like these big money flops are harder to forgive. Blizzard McflyKeanu Reeves version of "the day the earth stood still" Jim GoodmanHere's a list: Starship Troopers 2 &3, Skyline, Star Wars Episode II Attack of the Clones, Armageddon, Battlefield Earth, Waterworld, Superman IV Quest for Peace, Lost In Space, Alien Vs Predator Requiem, Johnny Mnemonic, Timeline, and Aeon Flux to name a few that I think can be passed over in my opinion. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast 5 Movies You Don't Need To Watch
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem dig deeper into the back half of the Alien franchise with 'Alien 3', directed by David Fincher and released in 1992. The PositiveFollowing 'Aliens' was going to be difficult, and Alien 3 certainly did have its work in front of it. Jonathan liked the story much more than Rem, pointing out that it's a 'misunderstood masterpiece' and a coherent end to the character of Ellen Ripley and the Alien Franchise. We saw some solid performances in Sigourney Weaver, Charles Dance and Paul McGann, and a dark and murky environment in which to tell this story. We did think that considering all the production issues and problems with the script, it's surprising that Alien 3 actually made it to the big screen. The NegativeEven though we give a bit of forgiveness for coming on the heels of Aliens, there were still may problems with Alien 3. Part of it resulted from extensive studio interference in the writing and shooting, Alien 3 spent nearly a year in editing. Rem noticed some inconsistencies in the some of the leaps taken in the story (How did two face huggers and and Alien egg Pod get onto the EEV unit?), some of the visual effects were very poorly done, and the film suffered from a general brown tone throughout the movie. The VerdictIf you're a fan of the first two Alien movies, then Alien 3 is a fitting end to the trilogy and can be considered an essential view to finish the series. (But you can skip Alien: Resurrection, the fourth movie) Listener Feedback Doug FergusonThe more I think about Alien 3, the more I've come to appreciate it. It's actually a pretty good movie, BUT it's a terrible sequel. As a follow up to the masterpiece of Aliens, it falls short and alienates (pardon the pun) the audience with the opening deaths, essentially negating the point of the previous movie. It's insulting.But if you can get past that, which is admittedly difficult. then you actually get a fairly ambitious, visually engrossing, claustrophobic film that is refreshingly unpredictable in how it plays out. Shame that it isn't what it could have been. Josh AdamsAlien 3 is a fascinating movie for me on many levels. At that point, around the age of 13, I was allowed to be interested in rated R films, and had seen the first 2. The trailer completely surprised me when I went to see something in early 1992, and the entire experience captivated me- until I saw the movie. For the first ten years of it's existence, I was admittedly let down by the film, which I saw as too convenient and had characters that were generally unlikable, save for Clemens- and then they quickly disposed of him. It had an egregious amount of swearing as well, which was a shocker for me as a teen. Since then, I've come to understand the many histories of this script and film, and I now have a begrudging appreciation, especially for the score, cinematography, and production design. It is far from perfect, but I'll always hold it in a special place; it was the last genre film that I knew nothing about until the trailer. Ton de WitteOk just saw the assembly cut for the first time which is a lot longer than the theatrical cut. I think that the assembly cut is better than the theatrical cut, it is also a different movie because certain things were altered. What didn't work, well the movie suffers from being 3rd in the series in the sense that you know what the alien is which makes it less awesome. The assembly cut was enjoyable not great but worth the watch. Michael SimshauserAlien 3 is an interesting beast to say the least. From the moment that the 20th Century Fox fanfare instead of rising to its cinemascope crescendo slides into a dark abyss. And this says a lot about the film and the issues around making it. Script troubles from the start changing from being set on Earth, to being set on a Wooden Prison Planet (thanks to NZ director Vincent Ward whose 1988 film The Navigator - A Medieval Odyssey might be worth a look as it made it into the book 101 Sci-fi Films you need to see before you die) through so many script revisions and rewrites. It finally started shooting without a script with first time director David Fincher. With all the interference from the studio, producers, losing a great cinematographer in Jordan Cronenweth it is nothing less than amazing that a film came out the other end and that David Fincher has gone onto bigger and better things. Is the film bleak ? Yes. Is it nihilistic ? Yes. But what it does have is a good cast of English actors in an interesting setting: Charles Dance, future Dr Who Paul McGann and Pete Postlewaite as well as Sigourney Weaver and Charles S Dutton. A great moody score by Eliott Goldenthal which was apparently recorded in LA during the riots of 1992. I don't rate it as highly as Alien, but I do rate it above Aliens and way above Alien Resurrection and the AvP movies. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Alien 3
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem talk about the movies they'll be discussing in 2016. Here are trailers for just a few of the movies we plan to discuss: You'll find our entire 2016 recording schedule Here The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode VII The Force Awakens
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon, Bonnie, Jaime and Jordan Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! !!! Spoiler Alert - We're talking about all the plot lines, so don't listen until you've seen it! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem record a round table reaction to Star Wars VII The Force Awakens with guests Bonnie, Jaime and Jordan. The PositiveAll our fears and concerns about the future of Star Wars were put to rest today. We all went to the morning showing of Star Wars Episode VII The Force Awakens and immediately sat down to discuss our first impressions. This is the Star Wars we've been waiting for! The NegativeWe noticed that Episode VII followed roughly the same storyline as Episode IV, so you'll see a lot of familiar territory in Episode VII. The VerdictAt this point, yes, it's essential viewing. We're going to watch it a few more times to get a better sense of the story and direction of this latest trilogy. Listener Feedback Wayne HendersonIt was brilliant! I need to see it in full Imax next! Peter WayneIMAX tomorrow afternoon!! Jennifer RobertsonFABULOUS!! Thank you JJ, you brought me back to my childhood! It was a fantastic film!! Bobby RafuseI'll be the "On the fence" guy. I thought visually the movie was stunning, but there was a lot of things I would have done differently. I approve of the movie but there was something missing for me. I think maybe I just over hyped certain characters too much for myself that ended up being a let down & I was actually more surprised in the characters I thought I wouldn't like & ended up liking them more than expected. Anthony FarnsworthI cried during the opening crawl and had a big smile on my face the whole time. I came out very happy. Saw it twice in 12 hours and plan on seeing it again sundayDrea AgeAs a fan I had to force myself to have the lowest expectations possible in an attempt to avoid the heart break of the atrocities that followed the original trilogy. Went last night and was overwhelmed by awesomeness....loved it all, grateful JJ did it right and hopefully will do it right a few more times. I love this universe and am glad to be back in it with style! Never though a droid would be able to rival R2D2 but BB8 stole my heart and rolled away with it into a galaxy far far away! The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode VII The Force Awakens
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Mr. Blahg Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem close out our discussion of the Star Wars Prequels with Episode III Revenge of the Sith" from 2005 and directed by George Lucas. We're very happy to welcome back Mr. Blahg from the "Under The Comic Covers" Podcast which you'll also find on the Podcastica Network. The PositiveYes, it is darkest of the three prequels, and it really is the best. Lucas seemed to learn a few lessons from feedback on the previous two installments. This episode concludes the transition from Anakin Skywalker to Darth Vader, and Jonathan liked that his transition was done in a plausible and believable way. The opening sequence was quite impressive and there were a few moments of good character development. The sound and visuals were stunning, of course. Rem enjoyed how Episode 3 started to put familiar pieces in place that would make for a natural transition into Episode 4. The NegativeWhile visually stunning, the story still suffers from a poorly written script and cringe worthy dialogue, particularly with the Padme/Anakin scenes. We concluded that Darth Maul from Episode 1 should have been keep through through the prequels to be a constant and familiar threat. Also, more Christopher Lee would have been good! We'd have preferred less of the vaudevillian and virtually ineffective use of the Battle Droids. The VerdictBoth Jonathan and Mr. Blahg consider this to be essential viewing, and once you've endured Episodes 1 and 2, you'll find Episode 3 to be the best of the bunch. Listener Feedback Fox SterlingProbably the best of the prequels. They certainly went more hardcore with the spousal abuse ending and the killing of younglings. Glad to finally see Anakin became Darth Vader but not wild about that "Noooo" line reading. The Chewbacca cameo was definitely unnecessary. And how is Padme pregnant with twins? She's tiny! There's no way there are two human fetuses in there. What I'm really left wondering is how did Vader not know where Luke was since he was taken to his home planet and with his step brother? Overall a decent movie though and Ewan is again the best performance. Brian CampbellAaaaaah! That feeling of relief that it was finally over. That Anakin wasn't smart enough to realize that he was fulfilling his own prophecy, was a testament to horrible writing that was matched by the horrible dialogue. The laughter from the audience when Darth Vader screamed "Noooooooooooooo!" was the perfect punctuation to Lucas' folly. Sorry, when I think of "what could have been", I get bitter. Makes me want to find "high ground" in Episode VII. Nick JensenThe best of the prequels, but it didn't have much to compete with and had the most interesting plot waiting for it (Anakin finally turning into Darth Vader). But Lucas continues to show that he shouldn't be allowed to write dialogue and get help with his scripts, I believe he had a great vision with the first Star Wars but really gets in his own way the more he messes with the universe; none of the prequels were great and left a lot to be desired...glad he finally gave it to others to continue the universe. Is this movie, or any of the prequels, essential viewing? Nooooooooooo. I think the prequels take more away from the original trilogy than they add, the only thing I enjoyed about the prequels was the light saber fights and Ewan McGregor. Paola CatapanoBoooring, like the other prequels... fingers' crossed for the next trilogy! Michael SimshauserI went to the midnight screening of Episode III when I lived in Canberra. It was a great experience seeing it in that setting and for those of us that had grown up with Star Wars, it also had a sense of finality as well. This film was the best of the prequel trilogy as it had all the things that we wanted to see from the start of the prequels: Wookies, Order 66 and most importantly how Anakin became Darth Vader. The only parts that pulled me out the movie were when Anakin questions Mace Windu when he becomes a member of the Jedi Council but not a Jedi Master. Anyone that has seen Pulp Fiction knows better than to say "what" to Samuel L Jackson. And also what was Emperor Palpatine doing when Yoda turned up ? Paperwork. But apart from that, a great movie. Essential scifi viewing if you want to know how Darth came into being. As for my hopes for Episode VII, I simply don't want it to suck. Doug FergusonI actually really enjoy Revenge of the Sith for the most part. When I saw it in theatres and it opened with that huge space battle, I was on board. Seeing Palpatine manipulate Anakin actually works for me. Where this movie falls flat is, again, the romance between Padme and Anakin. The dialogue is brutally bad and seeing Padme, a once strong female character, be reduced to a whiny wife dependent on her clearly unstable husband was hard to watch. I would have loved to see the strength that we saw from in the first two films come out again and have her stand up to Anakin. Alas, at the end she dies from a broken heart... not as impactful as I would have hoped for her. There were some other issues... like Chewbacca being awkwardly shoehorned in and some campiness from R2, but relatively speaking, those are forgivable. Ton de WitteI liked it, a treacherous Sith master has his apprentice killed by the next apprentice. Sidious's manipulations come to full bloom and the empire is founded and along the way all opponents are eliminated. The effects were very good and the final fight between Obi Wan and Vader was awesome. Overall an enjoyable movie, required viewing. To understand this movie better watch the 2 clone wars animated movies these are a very good bridge between parts 2 and 3, and if you want more watch the clone wars series. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode III Revenge of the Sith
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Bonnie Beyea and Mr. Blahg Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem discuss John Carter from 2012 and directed by Andrew Stanton. Full Show Notes will be Posted Friday. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Thing
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Bonnie Beyea and Mr. Blahg Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem are joined by Bonnie from TableTop Setup and Mr. Blahg from Under The Comic Covers to dig deeper into the three 'The Thing' movies, based on the 1938 Novella 'Who Goes There?', written by John W. Campbell Jr. The PositiveAll three films succeed in different ways to tell a creepy story of an Alien invader who literally absorbs and imitates its victims. The first version in 1951 strays somewhat from the original story, but presents a story with strong dialogue, good character development and leaves the viewer with a sense of optimism once the credits roll. John Carpenter's version from 1982 goes into much darker material with gore and creature effects that still make a lasting impression. Carpenter also built a strong sense of fear and paranoia, making it impossible to know who to trust. The 2011 Prequel gave us the backstory of the Norwegian station that was discovered by the crew of the 1982 version. Staying pretty close to the Alien from 82 and the Novella, we have slightly more Female representation in the roles of Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Kim Bubbs. The NegativeIt's difficult to feel any sense of fear of James Arness as The Thing in the 1951. Granted, it may have been terrifying in the 50's, but a big plant creature (described as an 'Intellectual Carrot') certainly won't be scaring anyone. Since the film is over 60 years old, we can forgive that. It was tougher to find fault with the Carpenter version, since it told the story so well, and really swung for the fence with creature effects. Mr. Blahg didn't like MacReady's hat...so there's that. With the 2011 Prequel, we thought the end sequence at the Alien craft was a bit Hollywood, and the story would have been best resolved at the Norwegian camp, but again not much wrong here. The VerdictWe all agreed that the 82 and 2011 should be watched, the 82 is certainly required viewing, and the 2011 will give good background on the events that transpired before the 82. You can watch in either order. Mr. Blahg and Bonnie suggest watching the 2011 and then go back to the 82. We all concluded that the 1951 can be watched for fun, but it's not essential. Watch "The Thing from Another World" free on YouTube! Visit "Does The Dog Die?" (https://www.doesthedogdie.com/) to find out if a dog is harmed or killed in a movie. Listener Feedback Jennifer RobertsonI have not seen the first, and I barely remember the remake. But the Carpenter version I love. Being a horror and sci-fi fan, I love it when the 2 are blended successfully, but they are not often as successfully fused as they are in this version of The Thing. Rewatching the movie for the podcast I was impressed that although old, it is not any less watchable because of it's age. The tension is there, the atmosphere is there, and Wilford Brimley is there.Too often horror tries to set itself in a sci-fi environment, with disastrous results that just come off as cheesy and very weak. While these disasters are almost an insult to true sci-fi fans, please understand that for us horror fans it is nice to have the catalyst of a story NOT be from the bible, a burial ground, an eclipse, a curse or a crypt….sometimes having the monster come from outer space is a refreshing change, even if the science part of the fiction is bad.It was interesting to see the interaction between the men in the group once the fear and mistrust set in. I think when horror is done well it strips us down to our core, to our primal emotions and selves, not our contrived “civilized” selves and in that sense it can complement the mirror on humanity that good sci-fi does so well (to quote you guys!!). Mike GorhamI have never seen the original sadly. I thought the prequel was done very well even with the CGI syncing up to the Carpenter movie. The Thing is my favorite movie. Its a shame we won't see a sequel from Carpenter. The PS2 sequel game did a great job telling a story and Carpenter(quite the gamer himself) even said the game is a perfectly sequel so he won't make one himself Kevin McVeyI've only seen the Carpenter version but I think it is one of the best horror films and a very underrated film in general. Many things stand out in this film for me: think the special effects are some of the best EVER in a movie because they have not aged at all. Even after 33 years the visuals look (to me) as good as they did when I saw the film 15 years ago Nick JensenI have not seen the original, interested to hear your opinion of it, but Carpenter's The Thing is a classic and one of the best sci-fi movies around; definitely an essential. When you think of sci-fi/horror movies The Thing and Alien are the movies that come to mind, and the suspense and tension that Carpenter builds in this movie is amazing. I liked the idea of the prequel explaining what happened prior to Carpenters movie, but I never got around to seeing it, I hope it doesn't ruin any of Carpenters work and eager to hear if you recommend watching it. I have read the story this was based on, 'Who Goes There?' by John Campbell, and recommend it if you're interested in the source material for these films. Can't wait to hear your thoughts! Seth HeasleyI actually like all three. The first is a very 50s version, the Carpenter film is fantastic with all those gorious (not a typo) effects, and the third one, while not a great film, hit some of the same beats without taking anything away from the Carpenter version. Michael SimshauserI've seen all three and I can recommend two out of the three. The 1951 version is a Science Fiction classic with all the pitfalls of being a 50s SciFi movie but being one of the first of that decade. The 1982 version is one of the only movies I can think of where the remake is better than the original. From Carpenters direction, Ennio Morricone's haunting score, Rob Bottin's great effects and fantastic cinematography by Dean Cundey it all comes together as a masterpiece, that was unfortunately released at the same time as ET. This movie is the pinnacle of Science Fiction/Thriller/Horror and is absolutely essential viewing. Doug FergusonHaven't seen the 50's version, but I've seen the other two. The 80's version is the clear winner, but I also feel that the 2011 one is dismissed too quickly. It's actually a pretty decent prequel to John Carpenter's version.You guys should dig up the video of the practical effects they were initially going to use for this latest version. They looked incredible and I think it's a shame that they opted out for standard CGI. Wasn't bad CG, but those original effects were incredible and in the same vein as the 1982 movie. Would have linked them up better in my opinion. Thanks to Doug Ferguson for the link to a clip on the creating of some of the creatures... Josh AdamsI haven't seen the original, but Carpenter's version is still my favorite horror movie. I still have a hard time watching it for whatever reason. I actually really enjoyed the prequel as well. It's not nearly on the same level as the 1982 film, but still very moody and jarring. It doesn't hurt that Mary Elizabeth Winstead is in it. Oh my. Ton de WitteSeen all three, the best in my opinion is the 82 version. The 82 version was of course a remake of the first version but added stuff and changed enough to make it a far better and original movie. The first version is a good movie but a true child of its time with an arrogant scientist and other things of the era. The 2011 movie is almost a step by step remake of the 82 one even if the lead is female this time. This does not mean it is a bad movie and it has a few original things but it doesn't have the surprises of the 82 version if you saw that one first. I did like that the 2011 version stops where the 82 began. Overall I would rank them 82, original, 2011. 82 and original are essential viewing 2011 is not essential but still an enjoyable movie.Jordan Bonaparte from The Night Time Podcast (http://nighttimepodcast.com/)I'm a huge fan of Carpenter's #TheThing , had no idea it was based on a book/ prior movie #Mindblown now I got weekend plans! Tony ArnoldiSecond was the best! Heather McAlendin-KendallWatched all three. I enjoyed the 82 version the best but certainly got a charge out of the original for it's time period it was entertaining. (Heather is a Published author who lives in Toronto, and writes Multi-genre fiction including: erotic romance; paranormal fiction; fantasy and faerie tales. Visit her site at mcalendin.com) The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Thing
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem are joined by Pi'ilani to dig deeper into The Hunger Games series based on the novels by Suzanne Collins. The PositiveThe 3 book series was made into 4 films and we appreciated the very good character development, these are people who are deeply scarred by the events following their participation in The Hunger Games. We also enjoyed Donald Sutherland, Elizabeth Banks Woody Harrelson and Stanley Tucci as they supported Jennifer Lawrence in her excellent portrayal of Katness Everdeen. Pi'ilani found the fight sequences to be very well performed and choreographed. The NegativeThe prevailing feeling is that the third book could have been done in one movie instead of two. Seems like they were padding both movies to justify having the final two installments. The VerdictEven though the two final movies would have best been done in one, it's still an entertaining series. We suggest watching the movies and then read the books after to pick details that weren't present in the movies. Listener Feedback Facebook feedback from Shanna (one of Pi'ilani's friends) I think the movie was really well done and faithful to the series. One thing I always liked about the film is that anything that was added fleshed out the story. Usually they gave us conversations from Snow or Coin's side that we knew were happening but that we never got since the book is only from Katniss' perspective. I also think split these made sense. Even in the books it's essentially two parts, Katniss recovers and assimilated into District 13 and then Katniss and the rebels attack the Capitol and essentially have to enter another version of the Hunger Games. My only issue with both the book and the movie is I really feel for Gale. He's in a catch-22 cause the decisions and actions he took made sense for war but would never make sense to Katniss and I just always hate that he could never get a fair shot because of everything happening around them. But that's my personal sadness over how that relationship shakes out. Not a critique of the writing. Audrey SrodI got into the Hunger Games due to the 1st movie, which is the best. After movie 3 I had to know how it ended so I picked up the Mockingjay book, that is the only book I read. The story was good, I like how things ended, and Peeta was the right choice for her. The movies did a better job of depicting Katniss. I disliked book Katniss, she was so weak, fragile, and indecisive. I hated all her mini mental breakdowns in the book, she was always thinking about herself or her small inner circle vs the larger picture. War was going on and all she cried about was Peeta, then Peeta comes back and she is a dick to him. Actually, she was a dick to him a lot even before the torture. She was her best self and treated Peeta the best in the arena. I like that she was flawed, but I prefer movie Katniss. Scott BuchananA guilty pleasure I came across by accident. The first one was the strongest, with the 2nd one slowly revealing a broader world with twists on the games from #1. Liked #3 but it really is set up for the big finale. Jennifer Lawrence is strong and very human as our hero, while Donald Sutherland brings serious presence as the central villain. My main criticism is that at times the surrounding districts feel tiny in comparison to the capital, which can take away from the expansive sense of the films. And we only needed 3 not 4 films (thanks Peter Jackson for this terrible precedent over too many movies). Stuff happening doesn't necessarily equal plot. RexTo be honest I wasn't the series' biggest fan. Never read the books so I'm sure I'm missing out on the nuances and profound themes a film adaptation cannot accurately portray. That all being written, the first was a bit slow, the second had much more depth and the last two were absolute departures in tone. It became what it shouldn't have been: a CG spectacle marginalizing its prevailing themes of freedom and faith (in oneself, others, etc). Plus it could have been done in three films, no doubt. Huw LloydHi guys, stumbled across you on iTunes and have been binging on the podcast since. I haven't read the books to my shame. However I'm really enjoying the films. What really impressed me in the first film in particular. Was that it never shied away from showing the consequences of violence both psychological and the physical. TamelaOverall I really enjoyed the HG series (books & movies). I had reservations about Mockingjay because it's the least interesting book of the series. And LGS made a mistake to split an already boring book. MJ2 had some great moments but the last 30 mins fizzled - just like the books. But really enjoyed the emotional scenes from Lawrence. John SheehyThe Hunger Games world holding some potential interest I think is a rouse as this story never gets itself distracted from the mission of regard towards its lead character.It's all become shallow and boring as a cast pander to one person who then acts like a spoilt child... Over and over againIs this essential Sci fi? NopeIs this even Sci fi? .... Because what does the mirror to humanity reflect in you? I would probably prefer my kids watch Battle Royale or Lord of the Flies.... But they're small so it's still all like 'Let It Go' and 'Minions' The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Hunger Games Series
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem dig deeper into "Reign of Fire" from 2002 and directed by Rob Bowan. The PositiveThis is a movie that takes Dragons seriously, very seriously, and we found this gritty portrayal of the typical mythical beast to interesting and refreshing. We see a world that is harsh and desolate, with a grey tinge to everything, like a world burned by dragons. We also appreciated the attempt to show a plausible scenario where a dragon could actually 'breath fire'. Reign of Fire boasts a very beef and mostly believable cast and created a world you expect to see in the midst of a dragon apocalypse. The NegativeThough there was much effort and heart put into the making of Reign of Fire, it was't without issues. We found the stereotypical 'The Americans are here to save us' trope was over done and not necessary. The VerdictThough not required viewing, it's an entertaining action movie. Listener Feedback Josh AdamsSuch a great concept, such a great cast, such an awful film. Seth Heasley (Take me to your Reader Podcast)But is this movie British? Dean Martin, care to comment? Dean Martin (Science Fiction Film Podcast)Brrrrrrrrritttttiiiish as shhhhhhiiiiiitiit. Jennifer RobertsonJennifer Robertson The movie is complete fodder but I loved every minute of it. This film is so full of man candy a girl can't help but swoon. The dragons were cool and the story was original I thought. The Americans coming to save the day theme made me throw up in my mouth a little but hey...there were numerous hotties to make up for it. Anthony FarnsworthLove what they were trying to go for here but man did it fall apart real quick. I would have preferred to actually see the world crumble. You know how in Fear the Walking dead they glossed over the 10 days of zombies ruining everything? I think they got the idea to do that here, such a big missed opportunity. Maybe "Remake this movie RIGHT!" should do this movie. Also Matthew McConaughey wins for sure. Brian CampbellLove the idea of going after an airborne, fire breathing creature in choppers. Jumping out as bait was also brilliant! It's like slathering yourself in chum and jumping into shark infested water with a pocket knife! But wait, just when I thought it couldn't get any sillier, Matthew McConaughey's character pretty much jumps right into a dragon's mouth. Was the idiocy intended to make the Americans look stupid? If so, mission accomplished! As Dean Martin would say; British as sheeeeeeeeeeeeit! Drea AgeIt's a close call but McConaughey's bad boy, I'll bring this damn dragon down by myself with this pointy stick! just slightly wins out over the kinder, brighter pre-Batman voiced Star Wars loving Bale beef cake....but just slightly! Katherine HeasleyGerard Butler! Ton de WitteI didn't have high expectations for this movie but it was better than expected. Not great, not essential viewing but entertaining. McConaughey loses because he did stupid things and you can't beat Bale having a castle. Nick JensenLiked the concept of the movie, it was really original. The cast is also great and the effects hold up really well. Re-watched this and was surprised how engaged in the story I got; definitely has some flaws and slow points but overall an enjoyable watch (though not essential). Have to go with McConaughey, looking super jacked with his sweet dragon tats and badass bomber jacket sans sleeves! But Bale and Butler are British as Shhhiiittttttt! Scott BuchananChristian Bale all the way Will Neville dropped us a note on the Facebook, saying: Hey guys - Love the podcast! You guys do a great job! I commented on your post about the potential list of movie reviews you'll be doing for 2016 but I also wanted to make a suggestion for the list. Have you thought about review The Last Starfighter? It's a guilty pleasure of mine as it came out at the perfect time for me - a young kid in the 80's who loved playing arcade video games. I would love to hear your guys take on it. I'm also hoping The Final Countdown makes the cut. It's another one of my favorites from when I was a kid. I think it was the first time that I learned about the potential consequences of changing the past - which blew my mind! This would be further reinforced a few years later after reading The Sound of Thunder, which was great! Unfortunately, the 2005 movie version was pretty bad unfortunately, as was the Butterfly Effect in 2004. Keep up the good work! I'm looking forward to upcoming podcasts. - Will The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Reign of Fire
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Rem dig deeper into "Star Wars Episode III Attack of the Clones" from 2012 and directed by George Lucas. The PositiveWhen talking about the Star Wars, it's important to distinguish between the prequels (1-3) and the original trilogy (4-6). When discussing the prequels, the conversation usually turns to 'which one was least bad', and you'll find most people split, half think 'Clones' was better than 'Sith', but the other half hold the opposite opinion. Jonathan thought Clones was the best of the bunch, and Rem prefers 'Sith'. If we were to remove the awful attempt at a romance between Anakin and Padme, Clones actually becomes a tolerable story about an attempt to assassinate Senator Padme and the search for the culprit. John Williams turns out a fantastic music score as usual, and there were some very interesting sound desgin. The NegativeAs we said, the romance between Padme and Anakin was poorly written, and the actors did their best with very poor dialogue. We'd love to have had more development of the Count Dooku character and his story line. Even though there was less Jar Jar Binks, there was a noticeable increase in the annoyance factor of C-3PO. Over all, Clones is a film that wasn't necessary, and didn't understand what it was trying to accomplish. The VerdictConsidered one of the least worst of the prequels, "Attack of the Clones", like the other prequels really isn't required viewing. If you've not seen the prequels, good for you. Best to keep it that way. Listener Feedback Kevin McVeyBy far, the WORST of the series! Corey BlantonI still cringe thinking about the scene where Anakin and Padme are in that field and Anakin starts riding on the back of some kind of giant cow-beetle. The special effects looked horrible here and I feel sorry for Natalie Portman having to share the screen with one of the worst actors ever in Hayden Christiansen. Brian CampbellI loved this episode! The realistic CG environments really pull you into the action plus we get the benefit of watching the chemistry between Hayden and Portman just sizzle on-screen. Just watching Anakin leer at Padme while monotoning: "From the moment I met you, all those years ago, not a day has gone by when I haven't thought of you. And now that I'm with you again... I'm in agony." Well that doesn't give me the creeps at all! Anthony FarnsworthEpisode 2 made me want to try some "Deathsticks" Doug FergusonI'm finding as time goes on, this is the episode that's the hardest to defend. George Lucas should never be let anywhere near a screenplay when romantic dialogue is needed. Just... no. Padme and Anakin's story the worst until it gets to Tatooine and it's no longer just them. BUT, there are some cool things this film has to offer. I enjoy the story following Obi-wan as he investigates the clone army and chases Jango Fett. And I really love the battle in the arena at the end. That whole sequence progressing from execution to huge Jedi battle is actually one of my favourite scenes in a Star Wars movie, second only to the battle on Hoth. The major downside is I feel that there was a missed opportunity here. I would have really loved it if it turned out that Count Dooku was actually a renegade Jedi who knew where the Republic was heading and turned out to be the beginning of the Rebel Alliance! In this movie he would be treated as a bad guy, but as an audience member, we see tragedy unfold as his attempts to expose Palpatine are thwarted by Obi-Wan and Anakin as those two try and do the right thing. I think that would have been a much stronger, bolder choice. But alas... I mean, come on, since it's a prequel and we know how things are going to play out, might as well use that as an advantage. Jennifer RobertsonI believe this episode inspired the documentary film The People vs. George Lucas. Balbinder BhatiaGentlemen and possible guest of any gender, I'm not sure if this is worse than Episode 1, (at the very most it is on par with that trainwreck). I remember when I went to see this at the Cinema, thinking how it was better and how cool the Yoda fight scene was, having revisited the film as a more discerning adult, I can't believe I was ever so naïve, maybe it was just the hopefulness of youth. With the exception of Ewan McGregor turning himself into Alec Guiness playing Obi Wan, there wasn't much to like about this film. Hayden Christensen was stiff and boring most of the way through, they didn't need to bring in baby Bobo Fett, and yes they had less Jar Jar Binks, but then went and added more of the second most annoying character in the series C3PO. Yes I said it. Deal with it and keep up the great work Ton de WitteI enjoyed the action scenes. The romantic stuff? Well, not the strongest stuff by Lucas. What I liked was count Dooku trying to recruit Obi Wan to the dark side. Those Siths are always busy trying to become the big boss and betraying the other Sith, just like Vader wanted to recruit Luke and Sidious having Anakin kill Dooku. Overall this movie is a victim of having to be a bridge, like I and III to the original trilogy. Nick JensenOh man, this is probably the hardest Star Wars movie for me to watch. Like Episode I there are a few good things to enjoy, I like the battle at the end with all of the Jedi (and can't complain about how Natalie Portman and her costume look during their "execution") and the really metropolitan world at the beginning I enjoyed. However, the good parts of this film are few and far between, and nothing as cool as Darth Maul shows up. Lucas makes these prequels focus on Anakin, but somehow finds the worst actors to play him...a huge failure considering this shifts the whole view of the original trilogy as well. I can forgive Jake Lloyd more than Hayden Christensen, because Jake was just a kid and it's harder to find good child actors I guess but ugh Hayden Christensen wtf. How could anything that Lucas saw in auditions make him want to cast this guy with no likability or charisma, then again I'm making the assumption that Lucas knows what to look for in actors. History shows that Lucas doesn't know how to direct actors and it really shows, also a lot of the effects are pretty bad so quite a fail all around on this one. Also to answer the question you asked...no, this is not better than Episode I to me. Hayden Christensen's horrible acting really tips the scale and makes this the worst of the series for me. On the flip side Darth Maul helps me enjoy Episode I more, even if he was criminally underused. Trevor LaboucaneI've been re-watching these with my daughter. Every time I see any of Episodes I, II or III I have a harder time listening to the dialogue. I think I would describe the feeling as increasing disappointment. Ray RI think this was the best of the prequels. If you ignore the love story (no aspect of which isn't horrible) then it's a really good film. It has a real film noir mystery component which admittedly is hard to recapture on subsequent viewings but Obi-Wan as the gumshoe (a bizarre cross between Sam Spade and a Priest which I think really works) trying to unravel a mystery all leading up to an epic battle is a real strength of the film. I don't care how cool you were on the outside, when Yoda showed up and said "Around the survivors, a perimeter create" your inner child was yelling "F yea! Kick some ass Yoda!". And then he follows up this brigade commander badass-ery with a person lightsaber duel unlike any other. And the cinematic moment before that when Mace reveals himself by activating his purple lightsaber from just out of frame...these are some great Star Wars moments. Don't let that horrifically written and performed love story totally kill the film. I want a Phantom Edit that removes the love story and then you'll have a truly great film. I'd do the edit myself if I wasn't a year behind in editing on my YouTube Channel Vacation Impossible and deathly afraid of a lawsuit Mitch ToddI'm waiting with baited breath for the new movie - Star Wars: The Return of Jar Jar Binks! Geoff Adamsworst of the prequels by a lot. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode II Attack of the Clones
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Jaime, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "The Cabin in the Woods from 2012 and directed by Drew Goddard. The PositiveAs we say on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, a good movie is one that 'holds up the mirror' to society and shows us more about ourselves. Enemy Mine is a great example of exactly that. Through these two characters, we learn more about Xenophobia, Governmental Politics and fear of anyone who is different from us. Excellent performances from Louis Gosset Jr. and Dennis Quaid. The NegativeBeing a Sci-Fi movie that came out in 1985, we understand the visual effects would be pretty rudimentary, and the sound design was weak, but most of that could be forgiven. We the ending sequence seemed rushed and there was a tendency to portray the Scavengers as obviously 'bad humans' and they came across as the stereotypical movie foes, and it hurt some of the magic created between Jerry and Davidge. The VerdictForgive the visual effects and some of the poor characterization at the end, and focus on the wonderful story of Jerry and Davidge. Two war movies with a similar premise to Enemy Mine.... Loosely based on the actual WWI Christmas cease fire between German and English troops. The two sides met halfway across the battlefield and sang silent night and played soccer. Each year the two countries re-enact the game in tribute. During World War II, an American pilot and a marooned Japanese navy captain are deserted on a small uninhabited island in the Pacific Ocean. There, they must cease their hostility and cooperate if they want to survive, but will they? Listener Feedback Elizabeth IrwinI love this movie. I've watch this dozens of times, maybe more. I'm sure you guys will discuss what this is an allegory of but for me it was all about the relationships between father and child. Wait, let me back that up a little, the relationship between Willis and Jerry was so sweet and I loved Drac Jerry. I loved the dynamic they had and the social commentary this relationship was representing. I loved how their friendship grew and bloomed. But this was in, what, 1985? I was a girl being raised by a single father. I identified with the desperate parental figure that is Willis, the quasi-terrified, overprotective father (much like my father was of me as I approached becoming a teen). I loved how much he loved that little boy and everything he did to fulfill the wishes of Jerry. I love the insights and thoughts you guys bring to the movies that I love so much so I'll leave the rest to you guys. But for me as a young girl this is all about the father child relationship in the lengths each other went to in order to make sure Zammis survived. No, I strike that, they wanted him to thrive - and that meant being better and doing better. And in the end when he stands in front of, what appears to be millions Drac, reciting Zammis lineage in order to allow him to become a full Drac, I watch with tears brimming even 30 years later. Seth HeasleyLove the fact that they had to add a "mine" sequence so people wouldn't be confused by the title. Heaven forbid the viewer should have to figure out that "Enemy Mine" is really just "My Enemy."(Rem: so they wanted to avoid confusion between my actual enemy and the mineral extraction facility that belongs to my foe) Josh AdamsHere's the deal- I think this movie works, but I also kind of laugh at it. As we're all used to with most Wolfgang Petersen films, Enemy Mine has some pretty big unintentional guffaws, including the overly saccharine relationship between Davidge and Zammis in the last quarter of the film. There are some actually frightening moments (the 'sand' snake)- I remember being absolutely terrified by sand and things like leeches after I saw this. I think at times it's pretty beautiful in the way that the two mains begin to relate to each other, and it seems to hit at the core of what some good science fiction does- relate to our human experience through the scope of an 'alien' issue. Overall, I find this to be both a nostalgic and good film, while still being a bit dated with too many touches of Petersen's occasionally inept storytelling hand. Ton de WitteI liked this movie. Of course the two enemies forced to work together story has been done before but this has a nice twist in the sense that one of the two gets pregnant. Essential viewing no but an entertaining movie. I still get a good feeling when I hear that the name of Willis E. Davidge was added to the line of Jeriba. Brian CampbellI think I rented Enemy Mine from the now defunct Blockbuster Video chain. Initially, I wasn't thrilled by the special effects nor the acting. Louis Gossett Jr. disappeared into the role of Jeri, while Dennis Quaid was an angry version of Dennis Quaid. However, I did find myself getting pulled into the story as the relationship between Davidge and Jeri blossomed through their trials on the harsh planet. I found Davidge to be a little bit too abrasive at times, driving home the fact that we humans are just so very bad people and need to be taught to live with other wiser, kinder, races.Yes, the colonial humans are boorish and unrefined conquerors. I didn't need the sadistic slave miners to drive that point home. I get it. Every generation needs it's Avatar. I wasn't sure when Davidge and Jeri had time to make a baby, but I have to admit getting a little teary eyed during certain scenes with Davidge and his human-drac hybrid boy. Ultimately I was relieved to see Davidge and Zammies make it to the Drac home world at the end. So I have to say over-all I did find Enemy Mine enjoyable. Dean MartinBrokeback in Space. Michael Sims-hauserI've seen this film described as a Science Fiction version of Hell in the Pacific. Two enemies stranded together and forced to rely on each other to survive. Only difference here is that one of them is an reptilian race that reproduce asexually... Based on novella by Barry Longyear, which I have read and like most books movies are based on, adds so much to the story. Also apparently there are sequels to the novella as well. The production of this will was always going to be difficult. Having the director replaced early in the piece is always going to drive the budget up, but I still think that Wolfgang Petersen adapted something unique. And for that reason alone this is required scifi viewing in my humble opinion. John SheehyThis is why I subscribe to your Podcast... I had forgotten about this classic ... Thanks again Nick JensenI have this movie in a combo-pack with Alien Nation, and I think that's appropriate, both are decent movies with good premises. I do like most of the ideas in this movie, especially the exploration of an alien society and culture which I find lacking in a lot of sci-fi movies. If the special effects were better and the last third or so of the script/story were more fleshed out and executed better this would be an essential sci-fi movie. However, the movie that we got is not essential viewing but a good, random sci-fi watch for sure. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Enemy Mine
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Jaime, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "The Cabin in the Woods from 2012 and directed by Drew Goddard. The PositiveIf you find yourself initially confused when you start watching it, that's ok. You're supposed to wonder what the hell is going on. That's part of the charm, Cabin is not your typical teen slasher movie. It's a funny and clever mashup of different genres done in typical Joss Whedon style. The NegativeBecause it's such a unique movie, some will skip it and not see the humor behind it. The VerdictNot necessarily essential in the Sci-Fi realm, but if you're a Joss Whedon fan, you'll love it. Listener Feedback Jennifer RobertsonCabin in the Woods was an absolute riot. I feel like not enough people "got" the movie, but Richard Jenkins and his crew were hysterical and perfect. Joss Whedon took a big risk with this movie and I for one am glad he did. It is hard to do good horror, and even harder, I think, to blend it with another genre. Looking at these 2 posters side by side it is interesting that one was pretty out of the box, and the other was dangerously inside the box. Mitch ToddI just saw Cabin in the Woods. #MindBlown David ZapantaI love Cabin in the Woods. Great horror-comedy—it's like the witty love child of The Truman Show and Scream. Explaining horror movie tropes as scenarios created by white collar workers trying to save the world was genius. Great performances from everyone, especially Bradley Whitford, who provided much-needed comic relief. A very solid, satisfying movie overall, with great creature designs and set pieces. I hope the rumors of a sequel are just that—rumors. Michael ClaudioI love this movie for its accurate depiction of a casual trip to a cabin in the woods. Nothing bad happens, 5 friends have fun on their trip and then they go back to college completely safe and remain the bestest of friends. Highly recommend this flick! Lily McGrattanI'm not allowed to watch scary movies anymore. The Shining, It, and Cure (Japanese movie) left too many scars. o.o;;; Ton de WitteJust watched Cabin in the woods. Now that was a nice new take on the group gets slaughtered in a desolate place genre. Horror comedy at its best, essential viewing I say. Dusty TweedhopeWhat a cool movie. I started watching it thinking "This is dumb. Typical characters in a slasher movie setup. BOOOOORRRRRINGGGGGG." But man, after we saw that this movie had a HUGE side of the story that was going on, and that was SO unlike other horror type flicks, it became really interesting. I thought the dirt bike jump scene over the canyon was totally awesome, and another example of how unpredictable and unique this film was. It was a really fun spin on a horror type movie, I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would. Liz IrwinHope not too late for this. Cabin in the woods was so good. I really underestimated this movie before hand I put off seeing it because I thought it was just another stab and kill in the woods movie. But the actual story really blew me away and all of us who are watching it in a group, who all -incidentally - have different tastes in movies, loved it and the ending knock our socks off. Some felt it was a little directionless in the end but I felt like that was kind of it's charm, if I could use that term in regards to this movie… Balbinder BhatiaHi there Gentlemen, I enjoyed both movies a lot. Cabin in the woods was a lot of fun. Very few films can pull off the horror and comedy however in my humble opinion, this film was the best effort since Army of Darkness. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Cabin in the Woods
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "Jurassic World" from 2015 and directed by Colin Trevorrow. The PositiveWhether you consider this a continuation of the original story or a reboot, Jurassic World certainly delivers excellent visual effects and sound design. There was an interesting theme around corporate greed and the never ending quest for more, and there some interesting ethical debates about not only the resurrection of dinosaurs, but their subsequent genetic manipulation. The NegativeWhile trying to make a statement about corporate culture and greed, Jurassic World really falls into the trap it's trying to criticize. By throwing in the obligatory kids plot line, the film tries to cash in on younger audiences. By the end, we're mostly cheering for the dinosaurs. The VerdictYou can skip this one and re-watch the original. Listener Feedback Jennifer RobertsonJurassic World sadly reminded me of my age and the fact I was no longer the target audience for summer blockbusters anymore. I was expecting to relive the excitement I felt seeing the first movie 20 years ago, and instead I left with a sad empty feeling for noticing that BDH was running faster than a T-Rex in her stilettos for a few moments. At least I am old enough to buy alcohol, which helped. Josh AdamsIt's supposed to be fun, and everyone and their mother saw it, so I'm supposed to like it. However, it's about as big and dumb as a Transformers movie to me, nostalgic accents aside. Jamie LomasJurassic World was a bit too mushy at the end for me (Aw, go Raptor, go!), but all in all, it was very solid. My 2nd favorite movie in the series (after the original, of course). Nick JensenI enjoyed the original Jurassic Park when it came out but it was never a favorite movie of my childhood, so when Jurassic World came was announced I didn't really care that much; I have no plans to see it and hear it is a typical summer blockbuster. Michael ClaudioI love the concept of Jurassic World of the park actually succeeding and then its downfall being greed. The need for sponsorship and more money led to the park's failure. I thought it was great to see Starlord take a break from Guardians of the Galaxy to help the park out when it needed it the most. Overall I enjoyed the movie, sure it wasn't Jurassic Park, but it was what I expected it to be. Anthony FarnsworthShe ran away from the t-rex in high heels. Lily McGrattanJurassic World was an enjoyable movie filled with fluff. Dusty TweedhopeJurassic park was decent in my books. The movie wasn't without a good amount of cheesy moments, but overall, it was pretty tolerable. The characters were developed quite well, and I found myself cheering for them during the tense scenes. There was some stupid-decision making for SURE, but at least it let to some good action. Watching my wife jump at the scare scenes was sweet, and laughing at the funny moments made the night a fun experience. Of course, this flick couldn't touch the magic I felt watching the first JP when I was in grade 5, but I found it better than the other follow ups. Overall, a fun night with a few jumps, and a few laughs made it a memorable flick. Liz IrwinJurassic World was a really funny movie and way better than any other successors to the original movie. I think the casting is what really sold this movie. And the dinosaurs, you can never go wrong with dinosaurs. Actually you CAN go wrong with dinosaurs but they didn't this time Doug FergusonJurassic World had its entertaining sequences for sure, but left itself way open for scrutiny by having characters that are too dumb to care about. It seemed to care more of checking off a nostalgia list than telling a good human story. They pandered to what they thought people wanted a Jurassic Park movie to be, but what people wanted was a story as well told as the original. I appreciate that at least this sequel felt like it had a point, unlike Jurassic Park 3 which was one of the most useless and pointless movie I've ever seen. This was way better than that. All in all... meh. Balbinder BhatiaJurassic world though by no means a perfect film, (sorry Bryce Dallas Howard, I just didn't care for your character Claire at all), it did have fleeting moments now and again that took me back to being younger and seeing Jurassic Park for the first time and being filled with wonder. The rest was padded out with some great action sequences, the inevitable family drama and of course freaking Awesome Dinosaurs! The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Jurassic World
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan continue exploring Mars colonization themes by comparing Mission To Mars with Red Planet and post the question: Which movie is better? The PositiveBoth movies delivers strong visual and sound effects, and we saw strong casting in each. We tended to prefer the story and character development in Mission To Mars. So when people inevitably start dying, we tend to care more about those characters. Red Planet had a cool robot... The NegativeEven with relatively strong casting, both movies suffered from clunky dialogue and poor character development. Regardless of which story is playing out, poor character development made us care very little about the plight of either Mars crew. The VerdictYou can skip both of these and go watch The Martian. Listener Feedback We asked you: Which was the better movie? Anthony FarnsworthNot the val kilmer one Audrey SrodI like my horror films, so I like Red Planet more. It has a darker feel to it, I like the action, & those Alien bloodsuckers. Both movies have good actors, however Red Planet has hotter looking actors/actresses. Steve FergusonNeither were great, but I liked Red Planet more. Mission to Mars got a little too silly at the end, like they were aiming for The Abyss but failed. Brian CampbellI'll swim upstream on this one and say that Mission To Mars was the better produced and acted of the two. Yes, it quickly devolves into schmaltzy sentimentality. Yes, Jerry O'Connell should be relegated to cheap SyFy Channel movies. But these are overcome by stellar (see how I did that?) performances from the other actors, pretty solid special effects (except for the CG alien) and I liked the positive joy joy feelings that it inspired. Doug FergusonIt's been ages since I've seen either. What I remember is that Mission to Mars was pretty good except the final act which sucked so bad that it ruined the whole movie. Honestly, one of the worst movie endings ever.Red Planet... I know I saw it, but I barely remember anything. So, what's worse: it being so unmemorable that it leaves no lasting impression or being memorable because it sucked? Anthony RooneyOh, forget silly competitions, I'm not doing that. Mission to Mars is a superb movie and one that I find myself returning to time and time again. I disagree - strongly - with the negative comments above regarding Jerry O'Connell and the ending. I have no problem with that actor or the character he was portraying, and the ending, even though it left one wondering what happened next (for one crew member in particular), was a satisfying one. PS I was overjoyed to find a Mission to Mars ride at Disneyworld in Florida, a few years ago when I visited - give it a whirl if you're ever in the vicinity. Nigel RudyardEr, Red Planet is rubbish. Val Kilmer's in it. Boss soundtrack though. Dusty TweedhopeThis is a tough pick... Simply because I thought both films were bad. I remember seeing them when I was younger, and not enjoying it. I thought another view may reveal things I missed, or didn't appreciate, but no. Still no dice.I guess if I had to pick one, I would pick Mission To Mars. Although the scene when they meet the aliens, was one of the cheesiest scenes I've ever seen. I found the story to be somewhat better, and the effects were decent, but still, the ending was a big killer for me. The Red Planet, I found to be so, so bad. An astronaut Val Kilmer who has to be told to spit his gum out, and take off his super cool sunglasses, and generally comes across as a badass rockstar...What the F.The rest of the movie I found to be full of scientific inaccuracies, lacklustre effects, and a story that really came across as uninteresting. Again, no dice.At least Mission to Mars had an element of mystery with the mysterious alien civilization, which added to the story. I found it at least left the viewer needing some kind of an answer. Too bad the answer was cheesy as balls.I love space movies, but these two missed the mark for me, and make me glad that Ridley Scott gave us the great Mars movie we have all been waiting for. Nick JensenYes! The Mission to the Red Planet Smackdown, two great essential sci-fi classics! They need to get on the sarcasm font tech. These movies are in the Armageddon/Deep Impact vein, similar themed movies coming out at the same time. Neither are great movies but there are things to enjoy in both. On paper Mission to Mars has the better cast and director, but I find Red Planet the more watchable movie. Both are flawed attempts to explore mankind's first trips to Mars, hoping The Martian did this theme justice (haven't seen it yet!). Fox SterlingRed Planet! Val Kilmer Dude!Been playing the new Metal Gear Game and I started listening to your podcast during the side ops. You guys are great! I've been flying through the episodes. Thanks for all the entertainment guys! Roger Cousineau (The Geek Likes.com)I haven't seen any of them and I bet that none of you are going to convince me otherwise. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast The Red Planet SmackDown
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan welcome discuss "The Martian" from 2015 and directed by Ridley Scott. The PositiveA faithful and triumphant adaptation of the novel by Any Weir, The Martian tells an interesting and compelling story of survival against overwhelming odds. There's a high degree of scientific accuracy, and it shows a very plausible scenario around Mars colonization. Matt Damon plays the character of Mark Watney with all the warmth and humor we enjoyed in the novel. The NegativeThe Martian is an excellent adaption of the original novel. There were a few tiny points that were inaccurate (the initial dust storm that strands Watney on Mars), but whatever small points we bring up do not detract from the quality and enjoyment of the movie. The VerdictWatch the movie and then read the book. You'll thank us later. Follow NASA on Facebook Listener Feedback Bandrew ScottReally great film. But it is not exempt from the law "If you read the book first, you'll like it more". Corey BlantonLoved the book, hoping to find time to see the movie this weekend. Victor DraxGreat book, hoping the movie is as good -I'm setting myself up for disappointment, I always do this with my favorite books.Mark is great in the sense that he's "one of us", he's a man of science, but he explains things in a way that we can understand. Sometimes he gets a little too science-wordy, though.To me, the best part of the book is everything that happens on Earth, I could relate to that a lot more. I hope that was kept in the movie. Brian CampbellThe Martian was okay. I can't say that there were too many surprises in the story. The overall lightheartedness of the film had me feeling like the ending was a foregone conclusion. I found that the only character that I was concerned about not coming home was a minor character in the film. Kat KraftA few things I like: humor, non-violent, no need for romance and no helpless females, strong intelligent characters, good acting. My question for you all - what would your annoying playlist consist of??? Mr. Blahg (from ‘Under The Comic Covers' on the Podcastica Network)I really enjoyed the film... smart people making smart decisions. No villain, and no contrived sentimentality... plus, an extraordinarily charismatic cast. Two very big thumbs up! Jennifer RobertsonSaw it opening night, what a treat! I loved the fact I still felt tension even when I pretty much knew the inevitable outcome of things. Damon was amazing, as was the rest of the cast. The Martian landscape was eerie and beautiful all at the same time. Finally, a DECENT movie about Mars has been made. Joshua K. ReardonOkay, I straight up enjoyed the hell out of this movie. I wish I had read the book before seeing it, but it was still amazing. The special effects were beautiful and for anyone who has spent some time in isolation, this rings incredibly true. Matt HurtI saw it and loved it. And I love that the science in the book wasn't dumbed down or overly explained in the movie. Obviously there are no long explanations of the equations Watney runs to figure out what he needs, but the methods used in the movie were presented to the audience without pandering. I really loved that. Lisa LyonsI saw it in 2d... and flinched when the airlock explosion happened! However... as with all great Sci-fi, it holds a 'what if' mirror up... and does it in such a way that my husband and I are still discussing what we saw, a week later! I'd call it essential viewing. Dusty TweedhopeGood book, and good flick. A few scientific inaccuracies, but that's just my inner super dork being picky.Comment on “Monsters” Michael SimshauserToday on a trip from Sydney to Perth I watched Monsters and then listened to your Podcast on it. I would have to agree with one of the first Facebook commentators with the point of the aliens being an invasive species. Here in Australia we have some introduced species so I get the bit about the US only trying to cull them every six years. As for the design of the creatures I believe there was an analogy that Gareth Edwards was trying to draw. When both the characters are first in the hotel room one of them is channel surfing and finds a documentary on squids/octopi and the clips mentions a mating through tentacles. I really liked the film although I did see parallels with Godzilla The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan welcome Doug Ferguson from 'The Music A to Z Podcast and Checking The Gate Podcast to help us discuss "Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menace" from 1999 and directed by George Lucas. The PositiveDoug enjoyed seeing familiar characters such as R2D2, Yoda and a somewhat incomplete C-3PO, which added an anchor point to the story. Great costumes and outstanding sound design, but that's about it! The NegativeWhile the problems with The Phantom Menace are too long to list completely, we highlighted a weak and non engaging storyline with wooden and uninteresting characters. As Roger says in the comments, this is a movie that just didn't need to be made. The VerdictIf by some wonder happenstance you've not seen The Phantom Menace or the two movies that followed, good for you. Do yourself a favor and avoid this prequel series at all costs. Listener Feedback Brian Campbell Is this being reviewed this weekend? If so, here's my comment: Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is the perfect example of what happens when a producer becomes so powerful that no one around him is willing to say "Hey, that's not such a great idea.". I guess the same could be said for Episodes 2 & 3. I believe, in my heart, that Empire Strikes Back Lucas would have talked Phantom Menace Lucas out of Jar Jar Binks. Roger CousineauWhat could have saved this movie and made it better? Forget saving. I don't think it was required at all! We didn't need a Darth Vader origin story. But if the itch to make a prequel was something George Lucas absolutely needed to scratch, then may I suggest he could have taken the way-way back machine at ludicrous speed and made a wholly original movie set a long, long time ago in the past. For instance, I could have gone for a crazy origin story about the Jedi Order. Cheers! Victor DraxWHERE DID IT GO WRONG: Right in development. the first question we should ask ourselves is "Do we need this movie?" And I mean, why not start at the story shown in Episode II, or mix I & II? I know the real reason is "because that way we'd sell less", but the biggest fault in Episode I is a lack of protagonist (if we have Obi Wan, why do we need Qui Gon?) that we like, with a goal that we care about. WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER: Forgetting about this and Episode II and starting at the story in Episode III, which is where the real important events happen. Everything before could be referenced briefly. I know, George, that you want to sell those toys, but think about your body of work. We asked how Phantom Menace could have been made better?Bonnie suggested fire Wayne HendersonAll of the visual effects just looked so sterile and fake, even when it was first released. The music was good, though. Jason CabassiI just watched this again recently. It was worse than I remembered! Sterile acting, boring, confusing, contrived plotting. Horrible jokes. But yeah, the lightsaber battle with Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn, and Darth Maul was fantastic. And Ian McDiarmid is a great villain. And the pod race was pretty fun, too. BTW, my 4-year-old son sat through all three original movies in the days prior. He was transfixed. But with the prequels, he got bored and lost interest. For ROTS he just said "Can we skip to the part where Anakin turns into Dark Vader?" Ton de WitteThe big problem with prequels in a franchise as big as star wars is the expectations they generate and the impossibility to fulfill those expectations. Now Jar Jar Banks should have stuck his tongue in the race pod the whole movie, and a better young actor to play Anakin would both have been a big improvement. Having said this the light sabre battles and the pod race were good as was McDiarmid. To conclude I don't care which universe you came from, some parts of the movie had to hurt. Erik FetenPoo-doo jokes have no place in my SW universe. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan welcome Roger from The Geek Likes Blog to discuss "Cube" from 1997 and directed by Vincenzo Natali. The PositiveWe're a little extra of this one because Cube is a Canadian movie with a really interesting premise. There's a tension that permeates the movie and it's punctuated with a thick sense of claustrophobia, which will keep you tense right to the end. The NegativeThough it's a very good idea, the execution suffers due to poor writing and an over abundance of story cliches, and we would have like to see more character development. Instead, most of the characters came off one dimension caricatures. The VerdictCube is worth a watch, you might be pleasantly surprised with how well the movie was made considering the budget. Regarding the sequels, you can skip 'em. Visit Rogers Blog The Geek Likes Roger mentioned and episode of The Twilight Zone episode called “Five Characters in Search of an Exit” which first aired in 1961. Here's more info on IMDB After writing Cube, Vincenzo Natali developed and filmed a short entitled "Elevated" The short was set in an elevator and was intended to give investors an idea of how Cube would hypothetically look and come across. It eventually got the feature financed. "Cubed" is being developed by Lionsgate (The Hollywood Reporter) and will be directed by up-and-coming Iranian-American filmmaker Saman Kesh (he directed the short sci-fi film "Controller". Listener Feedback John SheehyCube Cube Cube....what a show. If I woke up in the Cube I hope it would be like the first time I watched it...... Started with a group of about 10 and only 3 of them stayed, glued to it at the end.Why is there this cube? Who cares.... there are people in it what follows is an examination of who we are and what strength means according to the situation.... Ye didn't see that coming Mr Policeman! I agreed with the show on Robot and Frank saying it was a good starting place for people not into sci-fi... The Cube would surely be on the other end of the accessible spectrum Ton de WittePray and move as little as possible to begin with, then hope I meet an autistic fellow who can find the safe rooms. Very interesting movie made by people who have a very morbid imagination, essential viewing I would say. Oh yes take some extra pairs of shoes with you in case you don't meet the autistic fellow wink emoticon Ray RCube was an amazing film! I'm forever indebted to Jon for introducing me to it (along with other great things he got me into like Doctor Who). The suspense and the character-driven nature of the film was fantastic and so strong you didn't need much in the way of special effects. The entire thing shot on a Toronto sound stage on a razor-thin budget of $350,000 this shows how an amazing story and outstanding performances can shine when big budget distractions are removed. The sequel (which I call FashionCube) and the prequel weren't nearly as good but I guess I'll speak to those when you get to them, which I assume you will. Cube is a must-watch as a great film regardless of genre. Oh and if I woke up in the cube? I sure as hell wouldn't waste time and energy on the whys and the philosophy and the big picture, I'd focus on getting the F out and staying alive - like The Wren but with a better outcome and no french accent wink emoticon Bandrew ScottYES! This is one of my favorite sci-fi Films!I discovered this film after coming across Cube 2: Hypercube on the SciFi channel...yes...you read that right. The SciFi Channel, and not the SyFy Channel. But I digress. I spent weeks trying to find a copy of this film at a rental store, but couldn't find it in my entire city. I ended up having to buy it online, and I don't regret that decision. This film is a testament to what can be done with a minimal budget, a good idea, and very goofy dialogue. The film captures the feeling of paranoia and claustrophobia expertly, and you almost feel like another person trapped in the cube. Overall a great viewing experience (and one of my favorites), but I don't think it's essential Sci-Fi Viewing unless you're a huge sci-fi fan. It may even push some viewers away from the genre with the unanswered questions you're left with. If I were to wake up in a cube like this, I would be the first to go. I am incredibly unobservant of my surroundings, so if those unobserved surroundings were actively trying to kill me, I'd be done for. Thanks for the awesome podcast, keep up the great work, and can't wait to hear more! Dean Martin (Science Fiction Film Podcast)I remember being pleasantly surprised by this flick. I also seem to remember some gruesome laser work by the Cube's defense system. Jim GoodmanMy advice would be to not wake up in a sequel. Nick MillerStay in one spot until you starve, or are eventually moved to the exit. Either is better than exploring. Mitch ToddBite into the cyanide pill in your tooth. Don't have one? Today is not your day. Joshua K. ReardonDon't suck on the button, it's a trap. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Cube
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "Heavy Metal" from 1981 and directed by Gerald Potterton. The PositiveThis animated movie is based on the Heavy Metal Magazine, and fans of the magazine will see very familiar material on the big screen. There's a huge nostalgia fact here if you saw it as a younger person, and the soundtrack...well, the soundtrack rocks! The NegativeHeavy Metal has great difficulty holding up over the years, it's a very dated style of animation. The story lacks cohesion and the soundtrack is very 80's based. The VerdictA great nostalgia watch if you saw Heavy Metal in the 80's as a teen. Does it hold up now? You might appreciated it from an historical perspective, but if you're looking for and strong story, give this a pass. South Park tribute to Heavy Metal Listener Feedback Wayne HendersonAlthough the soundtrack albums didn't contain very much "heavy metal", I love the tracks from Black Sabbath, Cheap Trick, and Sammy Hagar. I had such high hopes for the movie, after reading the comic book for a few years. However, it was a big "meh" for me...unless I missed something. Looking forward to hearing what you and the gang found from digging deep into this movie. Elizabeth IrwinHoly Crap! You guys are reviewing Heavy Metal!?!?! YES!! Man, this movie was a TRIP, literal, figurative, whichever qualifier you want to use. The first time I saw this movie I was a young, impressionable kid. I had no idea what any of the drug references were though I was quite clear on the sexual references - as they were drawn out clearly! hehe! Over the years I've watched it quite a few times. It's not for everyone, but for those sick and twisted (Spike and Mike's precursor?) folks like myself this is a gem. I'm never one to critique a movie well, so I won't even attempt it. I'll just say I love this twisted, psychedelic space opera move that makes me want to play air guitar with a vengeance, light up a fake joint and just ride the crazy wave. In conclusion: Death! DEATH! To all who oppose us! P.S. The Syfy show Metal Hurlant Chronicles reminded me of Heavy Metal and their opening show monologue felt like it came directly out of this movie. I tried to memorize it but, alas, I am not one who can memorize. Mitch ToddI wasn't on drugs when I saw this movie, but I felt like I was. Brian CampbellI must confess to sneaking into this as a teen and thinking that I had stumbled onto hormonal gold. However, having seen it as an adult, barring some great songs from the movie, I find that myself, as a teenager, was the intended audience. The animation is rough, at best. The story is interesting, as it does hold up a mirror to mankind and the nature of evil and corruption, but falls apart with an overlong ending. And do I remember some cheesy narration in there somewhere? By the way, I did go out and buy the double album after seeing it in the theater. It rocked. Evan BrookmanWhere and when I grew up the Heavy Metal magazine was pretty risque. Sounds ridiculous by today's standard but I'm confident had I been caught looking at them I would have been beaten for looking at porn. That said, I had seen some of them and recognized the cover art, which I thought was sci fi cool but I had never gotten to really read the magazines or know the stories. When the movie was released I knew little more about it than it was animated science fiction with an R rating and I was not old enough to get in. In a weird quirk of fate I ended up going to "The Big city" Richmond, VA with my mom. She had a bunch of shopping and errands to do at or near the mall and luckily for me Heavy Metal was playing and I was transfixed by the poster. I told my mom I would like to go see this cartoon they are showing while she did whatever stuff she needed to do. Mom, bless her soul was as good a mom as you could possibly find but movies, TV, comics cartoons & scifi were not her cup of tea. The lady had about 3 movies she knew, Gone With the Wind, The Sound of Music and Marry Poppins, which was also as close to scifi as she came. So, when I asked to go see an R rated cartoon I was shocked! she seemed pretty indifferent. She verified it was indeed a "cartoon" and the people at the ticket kiosk let her buy my ticket and I proceeded to go see Heavy Metal by myself..... It was awesome for 1981 and I had certainly never seen anything like it back then.... 34 years ago.. I liked the whole movie, animated boobs probably made me blush.... But I think I liked the war scene with the bomber crashing (spoiler alert).... it ended with a connection TO a theme enjoyed by many podcastica listeners and had Mob Rules playing for much of its story.... I have a nostalgic liking of this movie and in 1981 I thought it was completely BAD ASS! Unfortunately, to me, it looks very dated now... I think I saw it on VH1 a few months ago and the animation seemed very washed out and old and the film just lacked some lustre in transition from 1981 big screen to my 2015 living room... Chaotic muse said on Twitter:It remains your one way ticket to midnight. Really though, it's animation is dated but the stories capture the genre spirit TheGeekLikes said:I was 18 when I say this in a theater, so you can imagine how my mind was titillated. Great musical score! Ton de WitteBased on stories from the magazine Heavy Metal. These fantasy stories are told by the evil loc nar who is trying to corrupt the little girl who will become a future threat. I liked the different animation styles and the music, essential viewing, difficult to say but I lean towards no. If you listen to fools the mob rules, wise words from Black Sabbath. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show!
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Bonnie Beyea Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "Robot & Frank" from 2012 and directed by Jake Shreier. The PositiveThis is a quintessential example of a movie holding up the mirror to society so we can learn more about ourselves. Exploring themes of Senior abandonment, the nature of friendship, and our relationship with Technology, Robot & Frank is a touching and laugh out loud story that is as enlightening as it is entertaining. The NegativeAside from a few nitpick things like music score choices and some minor character issues, It's hard to find much wrong with this movie. The VerdictRobot & Frank had a limited theatrical release, and that's a loss, because this movie deserves more. Haven't seen it, haven't heard of it? Watch it tonight and you'll thank us. Listener Feedback Josh AdamsThis was a touching, if not unspectacular little film. Langella gives a very solid performance in a 'square peg, round hole' type of role, and Sarandon is her usual graceful self. The ending, as somewhat morose as it may have been, was still artfully done. Sarsgaard was a solid choice for the robot's voice- not quite as smarmy as Moon's Kevin Spacey, and not simply rote like you might expect. I don't own this film, which is my usual benchmark for a full recommendation, but it certainly entertains. I see this becoming a film that people come back to once advances in AI come to the point where they help in the healthcare field. John SheehyGreat choice Nick JensenI thought this was a good movie and would have no problems recommending it to others. It's a good story with a little bit of future tech thrown in to make it really interesting. Not essential viewing, but a good watch. Shawn SmalldridgeThis movie is awesome! When I saw the trailer for it I knew right away that this movie was going to be right up my alley. Frank Langella does an amazing job bringing his character to life. The relationship that builds between Frank and the Robot is fantastically done. It's a gem of a movie that unfortunately got overlooked quite a bit. The effects are subdued but fit in perfectly with the vibe of this movie. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Robot And Frank
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Ian Fults Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! Sci-Fi Movie Podcast - Prometheus This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian and Jonathan dig deeper into "Prometheus" from 2012 and directed by . The PositiveThere was much buzz and anticipation with Prometheus, Fans of the Alien series were looking for more backstory and answers about one of the most terrifying and beloved Sci-Fi monsters of all time. We found the chise. The NegativeIt would take pages to detail the problems with Prometheus, suffice to say all the money, special effects and talent thrown at this movie still can't resurrect a fundamentally flawed and incoherent script. The VerdictThe more you're a fan of the Alien series, the more you're likely to be disappointed with Prometheus. It's a film that's technically solid, but it's hard to feel for the characters and what they're trying to achieve. Listener Feedback Mr. Blahg I will concede that it has a few problems, and I believe some of that had to do with editing (specifically towards the end), but overall I loved this film. I think people came into this expecting either Alien or Aliens and/or wanted very specific answers that it didn't give... I personally enjoyed the questions it raised and am happy to try and piece together my own thoughts on the meaning and connection to the previous films (and I do think I have a particular bead on how it all connects, but that would take some time to unpack... and it may be too far out in left field). I'm looking forward to the sequel. Audrey SrodI had no expectations, I really did not want to see it but went with someone who did. I also did not know the alien connection until the very end. It had been years since I had seen Alien and did not recognize the ship. All in all I liked it, even though this movie answers no damn questions but raises a ton of them. You have to suspend your disbelief for a lot of aspects. I laugh at how Charlize could not run right or left. Janalee CurtisAs a person who hasn't seen the Alien movies (as I am a huge wimp) I REALLY enjoyed Prometheus. Sayeed RahmanI'm just glad there's gonna be another movie. Kira TchkaI love this movie. Josh AdamsI absolutely love this movie, even as I recognize its flaws. My expectations were met, and the whole premise delightfully aligned with my 20 year old theory for where the aliens came from. I think that people that are hard on this kind of WANT to be hard on it, and use the other failures of the franchise as easy bait for their opinions. Suffice to say, Prometheus isn't a great film, but it's one I certainly love. David ZapantaPrometheus is the prequel that dare not speak its name. This movie could have just as easily been titled When Smart People Do Stupid Things. The existence of this prequel is baffling to me. That Ridley Scott would return to the Alien universe in this fashion is even more baffling. Michael Fassbender's David was the best thing in this whole fiasco, and Charlize Theron was compelling enough with what little she had to work with. Same goes for Idris Elba. Went into this with low expectations that were completely dashed to bits. To me, there are only two films in this franchise: Alien, and Aliens. Sorry for the rant, but Prometheus seriously chaps my hide. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, though...! Steve FergusonYou know, I enjoyed this movie when I first saw it, due in no small part to the atmosphere and Michael Fassbender's portrayal of David. But every time I think back to it, I can't help but think of it's tremendous flaws, most of which are centered around the script. Way too much effort was made to shoehorn in an Alien connection but without any logic. I put a lot of the blame on the shoulders of Damon Lindelof, who churned out a script that makes little sense, is full of questionable plot elements, and is focused on being unpredictable. You may know him as being a writer for Lost. Jason CabassiI expected not to like this movie, but then I went ahead and liked it anyway, quite a lot. Lindelof ended up changing a lot more than the ending, I think. He read the script and didn't like that it was mostly just a prequel to the Alien films, and thought it should stand on its own. (Quoting Lindeloff )"If the ending to [Prometheus] is just going to be the room that John Hurt walks into that's full of [alien] eggs [in Alien], there's nothing interesting in that, because we know where it's going to end. Good stories, you don't know where they're going to end. A true prequel should essentially precede the events of the original film, but be about something entirely different, feature different characters, have an entirely different theme, although it takes place in that same world." Nick JensenI like this movie. It's not great, because it does have flaws, but I think that people judge it a bit too harshly. I think that Scott/the writers had a movie in mind that had nothing to do with the Alien franchise; but were persuaded or decided to start trying to tie the Alien universe into the movie. That's where most of the criticism comes from, that it's not 'Aliens' enough; but if you watch the movie without the idea that it's going to be just like the original Alien movies and that it's going to be a different view into that universe it's more enjoyable. It did have some story problems but the unanswered questions left by the movie aren't an issue for me; watch Alien again and tell me you know everything about where the xenomorphs come from. We now know they were a product of the Engineers, and hopefully they are explored more in future movies. So not essential sci-fi, but still enjoyable; especially if you don't need every detail about the space jockey or xenomorphs origins spelled out, it's still a good look into that universe. Corey BlantonPrometheus gets a lot of hate. I love Prometheus. It was one of those movies I HAD to watch multiple times because there is so many layers to uncover, so many themes, so much more than just some "scientists" making very unscientific mistakes (i.e. petting space cobras, taking off helmets on unknown planets, running straight forward instead of left or right when a big wheel-like ship is rolling at you.) One thing I think a lot of people overlook is a reflection on human nature; each character has something that they seek and are destroyed by the thing they seek. Shaw desperately wants to have a child, she gives birth in the worst possible way (to an alien thingy in a surgery/abortion machine). Holloway desperately is seeking the answer to existence, he is destroyed in learning that answer is not as grand as he had hoped. Weyland wants to live forever, and when he confronts the one thing he thinks can give that to him, it literally kills him. The things we seek so desperately, ultimately bring us to our end. There are so many other themes and meaning you can find in this movie. And on a non-serious note about the movie, the geologist was so hilariously awful in this, I admit it. "I'm a geologist. I love rocks!" and sparking space joints. Some stuff was cliche and bad, but it shouldn't take that much away from an otherwise very deep movie with tons of hidden themes and meaning. Take from it what you will, I guess, but for me... Awesome movie! Jennifer RobertsonI went into the theater stoked for this film, and at about 35 mins had an unquestionable look of WTF on my face. Elements were good, but on a whole there was something missing. Things did not tie together naturally at all. The biggest piece of the puzzle missing for me was the philosophy of the engineers. Intelligent, impressive beings that stirred my curiosity and Noomi Rapace's sketchy dialogue didn't give them enough substance for me. I didn't hate the film, and I have rewatched it from time to time, but it did disappoint. It was a bit of a hot mess. Doug FergusonPrometheus is the kind of movie that highlights the importance of the screenplay. This film had a legendary director attached and he directed the hell out of this movie. Visually stunning. A great group of talented actors, like Michael Fassbender who hits his role out of the park.But at the end of the film, you just get a frustrating glimpse of a better movie that could have been because the screenplay was a mess. And I can't believe that both Ridley Scott and the studio felt that this script was ready. It has so many leaps in logic and unanswered questions that it feels more like a second draft than a shooting script.What a wasted opportunity to explore the origin of man and the chaos of the universe.Here's to hoping that The Martian is better! Ton de WitteI went in not knowing what to expect and I liked the movie. The beginning seems to be a religious act of sacrifice, we can only assume that that particular piece of the space jockey religion has changed or was abandoned and that the space jockeys became xenophobic. Or a new religion arose that wanted to wipe out all inferior species so they developed a bio weapon which went out of control. If you look at the alien species they are a bit too perfect no flaws at all, then space jockeys realised that and fled the laboratory so to speak before they could deploy the weapon. Ok some things in this movie are cliché but I enjoy it. Shaw's operation was interesting to say the least she must be the only one infected with an alien to walk away alive, Ripley doesn't count she was cloned. Essential viewing no, but as there is a sequel coming to this prequel this story hasn't ended, so perhaps the common opinion about this movie will mutate from the face hugger people seem to think it is into an alien. Anthony FarnsworthA common trend here that i'll be following, i love this movie but i also recognize its flaws. Ridley Scott really knows how to capture the eerie atmosphere and make everything aesthetically pleasing. The visuals are fantastic right out the gate with the first shots of the movie scoping over the Isle of Man and seeing the engineer performing this bizarre ritual which disintegrates him causing the creation of mankind (at least i think that's what happened). And that's just it, nothing is too clear about this movie, a lot of confusion, some of the confusion i like because blatant exposition would just dumb the movie down and like to speculate as to what's really going on... but then again there are other confusing aspects of the movie that bring it down for me. For example not only could i care less about the geologist and biologist being lost and scared in the alien ruins but why the heck did they all of a sudden get curious about the snake alien when literally just moments ago they ditched the group because they found a dead alien corpse? And why did the the geologist turn into mutated zombie alien on steroids? Or why didn't charlize theron just simply run left or right out of the giant alien space craft? Questions that most likely won't ever be answered and i don't care for them to be answered other than putting it on really bad story telling and lazy script writing. I'm almost positive i heard something about the writer being renown for mucking movies up, why he was allowed to write this? The world may never know. Regardless, i enjoyed the movie as another addition in the alien universe, but most definitely not required sci-fi viewing. Dusty TweedhopeHad to really remind myself that it was NOT part of the alien franchise. Related to, but not part of. I loved this film. Very good variety of characters, incredible scenery, mesmerizing effects, and interesting plot. I look forward to the sequel immensely. Brian CampbellWhat do you do when a space cobra rears itself up in front of you? Why you stare in bemused wonderment, of course! Loved the special effects and the story started out with some great ambition. However, the plot collapses upon itself as the characters become LOST in a Damonic way. (See what I did there?)Erik FetenI actually love that none of the ships or the events in Prometheus are directly connected to Alien. The theory I've heard that is my favorite is that the derelict ship we see in Alien is one that left for Earth 2000 years ago and has been sitting there the whole time in waiting... that it was a ship meant to eradicate the human population for killing off an Engineer sent to educate our species (insert religious overtones for who was killed 2000 years ago). Pure speculation, but I happen to dig that one. Michael SimshauserI'll get this out of the road first, I enjoyed Prometheus, even with Damon Lindelof's hack job on it. Dan O'Bannon he is not. The layers within the script I attribute to Jon Spaits original script. But unfortunately the layers and the great visuals by Sir Ridley Scott cannot stop the frustration I felt stupid people from doing stupid things in this movie. Like getting lost in a place that they just mapped, touching an unidentified possibly dangerous life form and running away from a threat in a straight line. I am looking forward to seeing where the sequel goes from here. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Men in Black
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Jonathan Colbon and Doug Ferguson Get the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Archive for 5 Bucks! This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into "Men In Black" from 1997 and directed by Barry Sonnenfeld. The PositiveThis is a great Sci-Fi Comedy, and still holds up well for a movie nearly two decades old. The 'buddy connection' between Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith was a real standout, two strong actors who create an chemistry greater than the sum of its parts. The visual effects stand up surprisingly well, and we consider the first Men In Black to be the best of the franchise. The NegativeDoug found some of the characterization was not quite in sync with how the dialogue described the characters, and Rem and Jonathan didn't buy Vincent D'Onofrio's interpretation of Edgar the Bug. And how could the full size bug fit into that Edgar suit? The VerdictMen in Black is a fun movie, and it stands up well for its age. We suggest you watch the first one and skip the sequels. Big thank you to Doug Ferguson for joining us this week. Doug has two Podcasts: Music A to Z Podcast Checking The Gate Podcast The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is a member of the Podcastica Network, visit Podcastica.com The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Men in Black
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults an Jonathan Colbon Podcast length: 28:14 This week on, Rem announces that The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast has become a member of the Podcastica Podcast Network! See the other great podcasts were teamed up with at Podcastica.com. Ian, Jonathan and Rem also present a Double Bill, feature two of our SmackDown episodes: Darth Vader vs. Gandalf and A Borg Cube vs. The Death Star. Who would win? The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter!
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults an Jonathan Colbon Podcast length: 56:14 This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into "Star Trek III: The Search from Spock" from 1984 and directed by Leonard Nimoy. The PositiveThis third installment of the original Star Trek franchise is a direct continuation of the events in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, and as Ian says, it's the 'Empire Strikes Back' of the Star Trek series. 'Spock' is one of the odd numbered movies, which according to the curse, tends to make it one of the lesser movies in the overall series. Jonathan considers this to be the best of the worst odd numbered movies. Great music, some solid acting from Deforest Kelly and William Shatner make this one better than most people give it credit for. The NegativeIt was always going to be hard for 'Spock' to follow the popularity critical praise of 'Khan', Rem considers this to be something of a part 2 of the 'Khan'. Jonathan found the characterization of Commander Kruge seemed one dimensional and a poor successor to Khan. The VerdictThis will be essential viewing if you're a fan of the franchise, and it's the middle tier of the 2, 3, 4 collection. Don't let the odd number curse hold you back, it's a good watch as part of the original Star Trek movie series. Get more detail on Star Trek III on IMDB Listener Feedback John Sheehylways going to be tough to follow up Wrath of Khan, remember feeling yeah this is movie is ok but it was the start of the decline in the Star Trek series until the brilliant Undiscovered Country.Christopher Lloyd for me introduced the more rounded and thoughtful Klingons that became the model particularly in TNG/DS9 Lisa LyonsThe follow on from the best film of the franchise! And the only film to make us cry. The loss of the Enterprise, and seeing the crew falling apart without Spock? Very heart rending. However, the biggest moment for me was that darkened room, a single figure shrouded by shadow and what sounded like Spock's voice from the darkness! BOOM! DeForrest Kelly nailed it!!! Sent shivers down my spine! "That green-blooded son of a bitch! He did it to me on purpose!" Ken BizarroI love Trek III. It has an adventure vibe to it much like "Wrath," with the added element of "Kirk gone rogue" in there. The late James Horner's soaring music, especially in my very favorite sequence, "Stealing the Enterprise" ranges from exciting to heartbreaking. Giving the fancy new Excelsior a pompous captain (James Sikking) was genius, and the movie is visually stunning too- the shot of the Enterprise pulling away with Excelsior coming around the space dock in the background- made my heart race. If I'm not mistaken, this film also introduced the Klingon Bird of Prey, one of the best spaceship designs to come out of the film franchise. Balbinder BhatiaWhen I first saw this film, years ago I have to admit I didn't like it at all. It didn't have the dramatic flair of The Wrath of Khan or the fun of The Voyage home that followed it. Also Robin Curtis replacing Kirstie Alley as Saavik did not sit well with me. However as I have gotten older and wiser I have come to appreciate this film more. It has a lot to offer towards the Star Trek cannon. For instance we finally get to see the new Klingons in more detail than in their debut in the Motion Picture. Also there are 2 important onscreen deaths firstly that of David, which will effect Kirks motivations from then on and secondly that of the Enterprise, the ship that has carried us through from the start of Star Trek. I should also mention that Deforest Kelly gives his best performance in a Star Trek film here (in my humble opinion) There are still lots about the film I don't like, again Robin Curtis (I'm not picking on her, I'm sure she is a lovely person, but the change irks me), also the character of Saavik helping the now very young Spock going through Pon Farr is a bit strange. Brian CampbellA mediocre entry at best. To spend almost an entire movie "resurrecting" a character was a little tedious. At the theater, I was kind of bummed that Lt. Saavik had been swapped out for a less crush-worthy actress. Lessly crusher, if you will. The movies saving grace, at least for me, was Jim from Taxi. A little perplexing, however, that such a war-like species as the Klingons could ever develop warp speed. Michael SimshauserThe middle film of the unofficial trilogy (II,III,IV) but is the flipside to Star Trek II, turning Spock's last words "The needs of the many outweighs the needs of the one" on its head, that their friend was so important that they would all risk their careers, their lives and ultimately their ship. But again we learn that some will end up paying the ultimate price. Best scenes for me were the Kirk's response after officially being told not to go to Genesis (The answer is no, I am therefore going anyway.) and Kirk's reaction to his son's brutal murder and McCoy's line after Kirk and the crew watch the Enterprise that they had been on for so long and survived so much burn up in the atmosphere of Genesis. Maybe not as essential viewing as II,IV or VI but still able to be viewed on its own or as a part of the unofficial trilogy of II,III and IV. Ton de WitteGood movie, liked Christopher Lloyd. It was of course inevitable that Spock returned without the trinity having a discussion Star Trek would be less fun. All there is left to say is, impressive they can make planets Mike CrateI've never really liked Star Trek III even though I've seen and heard many warm words for the movie but it was such a let down after Wrath of Khan and I can never judge it as a standalone. I've watched ST: V more than this movie which speaks volumes. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter!
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults and Jonathan Colbon Podcast length: 55:39 This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into "V for Vendetta" from 2005 and directed by James McTeigue. The PositivePositioned somewhat as an historical piece, and a futuristic cautionary tale, V for Vendetta shows and dystopian future and asks what measures we could or should go to in order to overthrow and oppressive Totalitarian Government. We're treated to strong performances from Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving and John Hurt. The NegativeAs with most of the movies based on graphic novels, we usually consider the original material to be superior and the same holds true for V for Vendetta. We found that Evey didn't play as well on screen, and her motivations were quite different from the character in the graphic novel. There were elements in the graphic novel that were missing from the film, and readers will certainly notice those elements missing. The VerdictThis film stands up well on its own as a dystopian future story. It might not be as good as the graphic novel, but if you're not planning to read the original story, you'll find V for Vendetta both entertaining and thought provoking. Get more detail on V for Vendetta at IMDB Listener Feedback Nick JensenI really enjoy this movie. I've never read the graphic novel but I've always been interested in picking it up since I really like Moore's Watchmen. However, I feel that sometimes reading the source material can sometimes make watching a film adaptation a bit harder if you have strong feelings towards the original; I'm interested on your thoughts on this if any of you have read the graphic novel. That being said, I think this movie is really entertaining and makes you think about governments and how they can/shouldn't interact with the people they govern. Hugo Weaving is perfect as V, I'm so glad they got him to play this part. Essential Sci-fi viewing? Probably not, but definitely an entertaining dystopian future movie. Ray RI liked it - top notch performances all around. Haunting moments/plots that stick with you. Corey BlantonI have to say I really enjoyed V for Vendetta. I think I have a soft spot for movies about overcoming a fascist, over-controlling government. Natalie Portman is great, and still hot as ever, even with a shaved head. And Hugo Weaving really delivers, even with an expressionless face in the Guy Fawkes mask. The character that always stood out to me and was the most captivating though was the chancellor. His constant yelling at his government underlings in those meetings on the larger than necessary big screen really gives you a hitler-esque feel to him that you can't help but dislike and hate. But every time he was on that big screen, all I could think about was, 'how much cocaine has this guy been doing?!' His pupils were gigantic! All the time! But still a fantastic portrayal. Very entertaining movie, and definitely worth a watch if you haven't seen it. Ton de WitteGreat movie, I didn't read the graphic novel but saw the movie because the Wachowski's were involved and I like the things they produce/direct/write. The movie is a bit strange because it is a dystopian movie in which a hero tries to change the situation to better the world but also a revenge movie. V kills everyone who was involved with which the things that made him what he is, it seems a bit that making the world better is more of a nice side effect to him. The movie is very well made, essential viewing yes to show that heroes aren't always nice guys to. Now I am off to youtube to see if there is a film about the overture 1812 with real canons as intended. Remember remember V ! Jennifer RobertsonBest. Movie. Ever. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show!
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Ian Fults, Jonathan Colbon and Kyran Mountain Podcast length: 59:17 This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into "They Live" from 1988 and directed by John Carpenter. We're very pleased to welcome Kyran Mountain, Audio Producer and creator of MNTN Media. The PositiveSure, it's a B-Movie. We know it's a B-Movie, but there are some very good qualities in this movie. Far and away, the story idea is what really drives They Live. It's a compelling idea, and there are people who actually believe that Extraterrestrials really have invaded and are secretly running the world. See the material of David Icke to learn more. The NegativeThere was some debate on the fight scene and we seemed a bit split. Ian loved it, and Jonathan thought it went on far too long. Ian loves the movie, but Jonathan believes there's a real nostalgia love for the movie that makes us think the movie is better than it actually is. Kyran didn't like it, but agrees that the movie could certainly stand a reboot. The dialogue and acting were poor, and prevented the movie from being all that it could have been. The VerdictKeep your expectations low and you might enjoy it. You'll likely enjoy the story premise the most, and we'd love to see this one rebooted. Get more detail on Watchmen on IMDB Listener Feedback Anthony FarnsworthI put this on for my friend about a week ago, he was a little suspicious because he never heard of it but when John Carpenter's name popped up he cracked his knuckles and sat up and knew he was going to be in for a good time. The movie has a simple premise and doesn't waste anytime getting right to the point. It feels like whoever wrote this movie just saw "Network" and were mad as hell and werent gonna take it anymore. Ian is always going on about mirrors and humanity, well it doesnt get much more cut and dry than this movie, besides the whole aliens thing. I could watch the unscripted improvised fight scene between Piper and David over and over and never be bored of it. Fun fact, the cripple fight scene on South Park is a direct recreation of the fight in They Live. Theres nothing too deep about the movie, but all together its a solid good time. Definitely recommend this one, wouldnt say essential sci-fi viewing but if your going to watch it make sure you have your bubblegum! Take care guys, can't wait to hear the discussion! Also glad you went back to 1 a week, smart move Jennifer RobertsonI was 15 when this movie came out and back then I LOVED IT! I still quote this movie to this day. "I'm all out of bubble gum", "this one: real f---ing ugly", and of course the classic "formaldehyde-face!" I honestly don't know if any other person (notice I didn't say actor) could have done this movie as well as Piper did. I think the movie worked as well as it did and has stayed watchable over the decades because Piper does not take the part too seriously. I don't see it as spoofy, but I do see it as a very fun film and I can't think of another sci-fi movie that isn't a bonafide spoof with so many laughs. We see a lot of horror and action sci-fi crossovers but not so many comedy sci-fi crossovers. Sci-fi, as a general rule, can often show us parts of ourselves we don't necessarily like, and that's all good, but once in a while it is nice to have a fun time with popcorn. Seth HeasleyProbably my favorite movie poster of all time. Also, "formaldehyde face" is an awesome insult. Lisa LyonsOne of the best quotes ever made and it was in a B movie! "I came here to kick ass and chew gum. And I'm all outta gum!" Great concept, reasonably well done. Good casting and stories, but implementation could have been better... But then it's a B movie, so what do you expect? Essential viewing? Maybe, just understand that it's a romp, not a high brow story! It's fun! Rowdy Roddy Piper at his best, never would he get such a good role again. Ray RI absolutely love this movie. The backstory of how the glasses came to be is absent so there's a plot hole and the dialogue isn't exactly Aaron Sorkin but if you can put those two things aside this is a great and fun film. The less-than-subtle commentary on the consumer society sticks with you. I frankly never looked at a billboard the same way again. I once tried to access the official website for this movie from an old employer after work hours and it was blocked with the category "Tasteless" and I couldn't disagree more. I think the nature of our hero, crass and unsophisticated, that is actually part of what works with this film. This isn't the president or the military or nations or scientists dealing with aliens - this is a guy on the street. He's cool (for the time) but he's common. If he ran for president he'd pass the want-to-have-a-beer-with-him test. This kind of everyman is lacking from most science fiction films except perhaps for the guy walking down wall street reacting when stuff blows up in a Michael Bay or Roland Emmerich film. Despite all of our hero's failings there is much about him that anyone can relate to. We've all walked into a grocery store and felt like something was different about everyone else there. We've all felt surrounded by mindless drones. We've all wondered about the true intentions of those in power. Or maybe it's just me. Oh but that fight in the alley where he tries to get his friend to wear the glasses...there was nothing redeeming about that scene. I loved when Duke Nukem quoted the movie Brian CampbellSo glad you guys have finally gotten around to this little gem. Carpenter is really having fun with this inventive concept and with a great leading hero in in Rowdy Roddy Piper, buckle up kids, you're in for a great ride! The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast has gotten so well at asking the question, "Does this hold a mirror up to our society?" Well I'll let you put on your cheap black sunglasses and look at some billboards for the answer to that question. The good? Great story, original concept, and of course one of the longest street brawls ever committed to celluloid. And of course, any movie with David Keith is instantly 20% better. Just look at Pitch Black and Chronicles of Riddick. What didn't work? Well the pacing is a touch uneven (as in all Carpenter work) and the acting is a tad 80's action-isn. Also, Roddy Piper is not wearing a kilt at any point in this movie. But that's a small complaint for a guy who gave us Big Trouble in Little China a few years prior. Was this Carpenter's pinnacle of his career? Josh AdamsI finally watched this back in March. So much fun and even a bit creepy. Ton de WitteBig fun, essential viewing ? Yes if you want to know why you should stop having bubblegum in your pockets. Do aliens walk among us ? I know Elvis was one but he went back to his own planet. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast They Live
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Mr. Blahg, Ian Fults, Jonathan Colbon Podcast length: 1:10:08 This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into "Watchmen" from 2009 and directed by Zack Snyder. We're very pleased to welcome Mr. Blahg, from The Under The Comic Covers Podcast which you'll find on the Podcastica Network. The PositiveConsidered at one time to be un-filmable, Watchmen is a dark take on the Superhero genre in an alternate United States where the U.S. won in Vietnam, and Richard Nixon is still President! Ian loved that the movie adaptation took very good care of Alan Moore's original Graphic Novel, and found the casting to be spot on, particularly Rorschach. Jonathan talked about the symbolism in the movie, which was abundant. This is a film should be watched several times to be fully appreciated. The NegativeThe only small points we could find were the somewhat cheesy Leonard Cohen music during the 'Love Scene', and some fans will not enjoy this because of the comparison with the Graphic Novel. The VerdictWe had mixed opinions on which to do first, the movie or the graphic novel, but we all agree that Watchmen is a great story and is well worth exploring. Get more detail on Watchmen on IMDB Radio vs. The Martians Podcast As per Mr. Blahg's suggestion, learn more about David Zapanta Listener Feedback Cory Metcalfe This movie is truly outstanding, that is all Ian FoggoGrowing up in the 80's, this was a comic I stumbled upon, which was very hard to do when you live in an island. A few years after I read this, I even gave the complete series as a gift to a friend. I was completely stoked to see that this was going to be made into a movie, and as a comic book and Sci-Fi fan, thought that this was and has been one of the best Superhero movies put out. Athena NeillEnjoyed the movie. Loathed the Silk Spectre's costumes. Impractical and misogynistic in every way. I would like to light them on fire. David ZapantaThis movie is vastly underrated—and fan backlash to the altered ending overshadowed a pretty impressive page-to-screen adaptation. I do, however, think trying to cram 12 chapters into a single movie was overambitious. The source material would have been better served as an onscreen trilogy—really let the story expand and breathe. At the end of the day, I'm glad this movie exists. Great cast, slick cinematography, and a surprising (but necessary) fidelity to the comics. Snyder's Sucker Punch is loathsome; Watchmen is not. Mike GorhamThis was the first Blu Ray movie I ever watched. Breathtaking does not begin to describe it Corey BlantonI really enjoyed this movie. I still enjoy rewatching it. I think this movie was put together really well. The cast is fantastic. Some great use of song choice. I love the opening with "The Times, They Are A Changin'" by Bob Dylan that sort of sets up the world in which the movie takes place. Also "The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel was perfect for The Comedian's funeral. And how can you not like Rorschach in this? His dialogue is just plain awesome throughout this movie. I mean come on: https://youtu.be/B3lsJmwNO40Lisa LyonsThere was a time that this was a comic book that was unfilmable. But then, they also said Lord of the Rings could never be filmed! Watchmen was, without a doubt, one comic book that made me a comic fan. That and the wonderful Camelot 3000. So, going into this film, I knew the source incredibly well. Dr Manhattan was precisely how I imagined him, but stealing every scene, without a doubt was Rorschach. He was perfectly cast, and carried off with such aplomb by Jackie Earle Haley that I couldn't have imagined anyone else in that role... I'm still of two minds if the comic ending or the film ending is best. I mean the ultimate outcome of both is humanity uniting, but is an Alien invasion more or less believable? Finally, on the DVD release there was a short animation that takes the Pirates story that develops in parallel in the comic, and turns it into a stand alone story. Weird, strange, but good... Oddly reminiscent of Heavy Metal type cartoons. Anthony FarnsworthYay! Love mr blahg!I really enjoyed this movie, the graphic novel even more so. I read the graphic novel prior to watching the movie, in fact Watchmen was the first graphic novel i ever read and owned. I wasn't sure what to expect, just thought "hey a cliche superhero team, they're making a movie about it so it must be good"...cliche superhero team...boy was i wrong. Turning the page and seeing a giant exploded alien carcass is definitely up there with the top 5 times my mind has been blown, although the movie did it different, i rather enjoy both versions and can understand why they chose to go the direction they did in the movie, both work, but i sure would have loved to see cthulhu body parts scattered across a ruined Manhattan. A visual masterpiece, its very fitting with Zack Snyder's resume and i believe he did the graphic novel justice. Its one of those pieces of media that had me talking for quite awhile, unlike avengers which is a cut and dry superhero team movie, Watchmen presents many existential quandaries to think about which i find to be rare with your typical superhero movie. I would recommend both the movie and novel to anyone, the deleted scenes are just as enjoyable. Cant wait to hear the discussion fellas, take care. Ton de WitteI read the graphic novel first. When I saw the movie I was impressed with how well it followed the novel. Some things were absent and the ending was different but a great translation to film. And there are 3 versions of this movie, theatrical, directors cut and ultimate cut. Didn't see the last one which seems to have the tales of the black freighter in it so review all three if you can. Essential viewing this one as well as reading the graphic novel.Now do we understand who is locked up with whom and where ? Doug FergusonApparently a lot of people really don't like the movie... but I do! I think Snyder did a great job adapting the graphic novel, which was an ambitious undertaking to say the least. I think the casting was great and the tone was dark and mysterious. There were a few questionable changes, but overall I feel that they stayed true to the source material and I actually thought the ending change worked better for the cinematic medium. I'm sure Alan Moore would have hated it, but that's because he's Alan Moore. Though, part of me wonders about the project that only exists only in a parallel universe. Apparently Terry Gilliam was approached ages ago to adapt Watchmen and he turned it down saying that it couldn't be done in a single movie, but he would do it if it were a miniseries. I would have LOVED to see that, but it never came to pass... Ray RMy first viewing was the extended cut DVD - I found it long and tedious, a missed opportunity. I hear fans of the comic loved it but as a casual moviegoer I thought it could have been better. Nick JensenI really enjoy this movie and the graphic novel. Like a lot of the other posts, I read the graphic novel first and then saw the movie, and think it's a great adaptation. The parts that they changed, like the costumes and the ending, all really worked well; and honestly look better. I think one of the main reasons why a lot of the general public didn't really embrace the movie was because of it's marketing. They marketed this as a typical fast-paced action comic book movie, but this movie and the source material are more of a dramatic, noir detective mystery story. So people went in to the movie with the wrong expectations of what they were going to see. But I love this movie and can't wait to hear your discussion. Michael SimshauserI'm on the fence with the movie. There are things that just simply that the comic can do that the movie cannot. While I own this movie and the related DVDs (Tales of the Black Freighter & the Motion Comic), any discussion of this movie always makes me want to read the comic, not watch the movie. Might be a different state of affairs when I get my hands on the Director's Cut. My two cents on whether it's required viewing, perhaps not. But the comic is definitely required reading. For another point of view, Radio vs the Martians (another podcast) had a great recent episode discussing the movie and the comic and the history and the changes made between the comic and its film adaptation. The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast is partially funded by Patreon. You can help make the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast even better by becoming a support. Go to our Patreon page and show your support! Please share your comments and thoughts on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Facebook page or send us Email and we'll add your feedback to the show! Subscribe to The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast Newsletter! Sci Fi Movie Podcast Watchmen
This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into “The Iron Giant” from 1999 and directed by by Brad Bird. The PositiveWe loved how the The Iron Giant (Based on the Ted Hughes book ‘The Iron Man) really captures the Cold War paranoia of the late 50's and gives us that realistic sense of how we'd respond to a perceived external threat. This is a wonderful that the whole family can watch, and the central them ‘You choose who you want to be' is a message that could hold great value for youngsters. The NegativeThe only thing Ian didn't like was that he didn't discover this movie sooner! Jonathan found the portrayal of the military seemed a bit stereotypical and one noted, calling them “Trigger happy Yabbo's”. Rem liked that the Giant survived and the end, but Jonathan thought the value of the Giant's sacrifice was diminished because didn't die. The VerdictThe Iron Giant might not be essential Sci-Fi viewing, but it's a sweet and inspiring movie that you can share with the kids. Director: Brad Bird Writers: Brad Bird (screen story) & Ted Hughes (book) CastJennifer Aniston – Annie Hughes (Voice)Harry Connick Jr. – Dean McCoppin (Voice)Vin Diesel – The Iron Giant (Voice)Christopher McDonald – Kent Mansley (Voice)Eli Marienthal – Hogarth Hughes (Voice)
Hey, it's Rem from the Sci-Fi Movie Podcast. This is a quick update on our recording schedule. Beginning today, and for the rest of 2015, we are changing to a one show per month schedule. Why once per month? Right now, I'm really struggling with having enough time. We get a show out every week […] The post Sci Fi Movie Podcast Recording Schedule appeared first on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast.
Help support The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast by becoming a Patron! Hosted by Remi Lavictoire, Ian Fults, Jonathan Colbon Podcast length: 56:40 This week on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast, Rem, Ian, Jonathan dig deeper into “Flash Gordon” from 1980 and directed Mike Hodges. The Positive Flash Gordon is a fun, campy movie and you'll have to know that […] The post Sci Fi Movie Podcast Flash Gordon appeared first on The Sci-Fi Movie Podcast.