Podcasts about film buff

Disney's live action Snow White was destroyed by the internet. It's time to fight back and The Film Buff is on the front lines.

The Film Buff explores the evolution of sequels, franchises, and the rise of the term "IP" in modern cinema, offering context for what makes The Accountant 2 stand out. Far from a typical action sequel, the film shines through its rich, character-driven moments, particularly the compelling dynamic between Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal. Their nuanced performances elevate the narrative, creating a sequel that prioritizes emotional depth and human connection over conventional action tropes, setting a new standard for the genre.

The Film Buff explores the evolution of sequels, franchises, and the rise of the term "IP" in modern cinema, offering context for what makes The Accountant 2 stand out. Far from a typical action sequel, the film shines through its rich, character-driven moments, particularly the compelling dynamic between Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal. Their nuanced performances elevate the narrative, creating a sequel that prioritizes emotional depth and human connection over conventional action tropes, setting a new standard for the genre.

Kris McPeak hosts a solo episode of the Top Five podcast, where she shares her top five wishlist of guest hosts she would love to have on the show.   Despite a recording mishap, Kris outlines her choices, starting with Adam Corolla, Tina Fey, the hosts of the Ruthless Variety Program, Kevin Smith, and finally, Jimmy Fallon. She also includes an honorable mention for Brian Koppelman and David Levine of the show 'Billions.'   Kris discusses why she admires these individuals and how their unique qualities would add to her podcast. 00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitch 00:29 Solo Show Explanation and Memorial Day 01:13 Top Five Wishlist of Guest Hosts 05:46 Honorable Mention and Number One Guest Host 07:52 Recap and Conclusion

In 2005, Disney was in the midst of its direct-to-VHS era, a time when nearly every animated franchise received a sequel—some even spawning trilogies with two follow-ups. Among this wave of releases, Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch stands out as a shining gem, according to The Film Buff. However, this doesn't mean he's finished exploring this era of oft-maligned films or the Lilo & Stitch franchise itself. Those who brought us Lilo and Stitch 2: Stitch has a Glitch Crew Directors: Michael LaBash Tony Leondis Screenwriters: Tony Leondis Michael LaBash Eddie Guzelian Alexa Junge Michael Lucker (uncredited) Producer: Christopher Chase Animation Department: Storyboard Artist: Toby Shelton Musician: Andrew Malloy Characters Author: Chris Sanders

In 2005, Disney was in the midst of its direct-to-VHS era, a time when nearly every animated franchise received a sequel—some even spawning trilogies with two follow-ups. Among this wave of releases, Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch stands out as a shining gem, according to The Film Buff. However, this doesn't mean he's finished exploring this era of oft-maligned films or the Lilo & Stitch franchise itself.

Tonight, The Film Buff continues his in-depth exploration of the Mission: Impossible series with a discussion of its fourth installment, Ghost Protocol. This film marked a pivotal moment, surpassing Alien as the definitive director-driven franchise in Hollywood.

Today, AKAPAD the Film Buff uncovers a major misconception about Netflix's recent release, Sirens, sparking a fiery debate across Reddit. Fortunately, he's here to set the record straight with his expert insights.

Today, AKAPAD the Film Buff uncovers a major misconception about Netflix's recent release, Sirens, sparking a fiery debate across Reddit. Fortunately, he's here to set the record straight with his expert insights.

The Film Buff examines the genre classification of HBO's latest release, Mountainhead, arguing that it should be viewed as a science fiction film rather than a dark satire. This distinction is crucial for a deeper understanding of the film's narrative and themes.

The Film Buff examines the genre classification of HBO's latest release, Mountainhead, arguing that it should be viewed as a science fiction film rather than a dark satire. This distinction is crucial for a deeper understanding of the film's narrative and themes.

The Film Buff is furious! The Last Showgirl embodies the essence of exceptional filmmaking, yet the Academy Awards snubbed it entirely. Pamela Anderson delivered a career-defining performance worthy of an Oscar, and Jamie Lee Curtis shone brilliantly as her co-star. Tragically, their remarkable work was overlooked, failing to keep pace with the global acclaim it deserved.

The Film Buff is furious! The Last Showgirl embodies the essence of exceptional filmmaking, yet the Academy Awards snubbed it entirely. Pamela Anderson delivered a career-defining performance worthy of an Oscar, and Jamie Lee Curtis shone brilliantly as her co-star. Tragically, their remarkable work was overlooked, failing to keep pace with the global acclaim it deserved.

Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning - Ep 346: We answer the call once more as our Xenu overlord rises up to save the world in the way only he can - doing the most impossible stunts possible! Your hosts choose to accept the mission as they discuss Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, the once two-part supposed send-off to one of the world's biggest movie stars. Does this film go bigger and better than the rest? Or is the mission truly, finally impossible? Tune in to find out, only on Normies Like Us! This Podcast will self-destruct in 5 seconds. 5. 4. 3. 2... @NormiesLikeUs https://www.instagram.com/normieslikeus/ @jacob https://www.instagram.com/jacob/ @MikeHasInsta https://www.instagram.com/mikehasinsta/ https://letterboxd.com/BabblingBrooksy/ https://letterboxd.com/hobbes72/ https://letterboxd.com/mikejromans/

On the 452nd episode of Piecing It Together, William-Patrick Coleman joins me to talk about Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning. The 8th and possibly final entry in the long running Tom Cruise action series gave us an opportunity to look back at the whole series and talk about what might have inspired this conclusion. Puzzle pieces include Furious 7, Meg 2: The Trench and Avengers: Endgame.As always, SPOILER ALERT for Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning and the movies we discuss!Written by Christopher McQuarrie and Erik JendersenDirected by Christopher McQuarrieStarring Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon PeggParamountWilliam-Patrick Coleman is the host of the FILMBUFF YouTube channel.Check out FILMBUFF at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrku_45HWx_zSx6mCSdxMkQAnd follow William on Instagram @filmbuff_showMy latest David Rosen album MISSING PIECES: 2018-2024 is a compilation album that fills in the gaps in unreleased music made during the sessions for 2018's A Different Kind Of Dream, 2020's David Rosen, 2022's MORE CONTENT and 2025's upcoming And Other Unexplained Phenomena. Find it on Bandcamp, Apple Music, Spotify and everywhere else you can find music.You can also find more about all of my music on my website https://www.bydavidrosen.comMy latest music video is “Shaking" which you can watch at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzm8s4nuqlAThe song at the end of the episode is a piece of the score of the film Friday & Friday which you will get to hear more about at a later date....Make sure to “Like” Piecing It Together on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PiecingPodAnd “Follow” us on Twitter @PiecingPodAnd Join the Conversation in our Facebook Group, Piecing It Together – A Movie Discussion Group.And check out https://www.piecingpod.com for more about our show!And if you want to SUPPORT THE SHOW, you can now sign up for our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/bydavidrosenYou can also support the show by checking out our Dashery store to buy shirts and more featuring Piecing It Together logos, movie designs, and artwork for my various music projects at https://bydavidrosen.dashery.com/Share the episode, comment and give us feedback! And of course, SUBSCRIBE!And of course, don't forget to leave us a 5 star review on Goodpods,

Today, The Film Buff guides you through the 2021 Amazon Studios film The Tomorrow War, which may be the most straightforward and logically consistent time-travel movie ever made.

Today, The Film Buff guides you through the 2021 Amazon Studios film The Tomorrow War, which may be the most straightforward and logically consistent time-travel movie ever made.

In this weekend's Animation Spotlight episode, The Film Buff dives into what makes Stitch! The Movie a standout universe-expanding sequel, holding its own against Disney's ambitious follow-ups like Star Wars and the MCU.

In this weekend's Animation Spotlight episode, The Film Buff dives into what makes Stitch! The Movie a standout universe-expanding sequel, holding its own against Disney's ambitious follow-ups like Star Wars and the MCU.

It's Animation Saturday, and The Film Buff is dropping a bombshell from his in-depth Hellboy study! Is Hellboy: Blood and Iron the ultimate portrayal of the character across all its many media incarnations? To dive deeper, AKAPAD poses a bold question: Should Hellboy stick to one-hour animated adventures? Is this the format that best showcases our favorite horned hero?

It's Animation Saturday, and The Film Buff is dropping a bombshell from his in-depth Hellboy study! Is Hellboy: Blood and Iron the ultimate portrayal of the character across all its many media incarnations? To dive deeper, AKAPAD poses a bold question: Should Hellboy stick to one-hour animated adventures? Is this the format that best showcases our favorite horned hero?

Discover why movie tropes captivate audiences in this engaging episode! The Film Buff dives into Netflix's latest release, Nonnas, exploring its charm and appeal.

If you ever need to hear the argument as to how and why movie tropes are benficial for the audience than is the episode for you. The Film Buff leaps into another Netflix release with Nonnas.

The Studio, now streaming on Apple TV+, joins a storied tradition of Hollywood turning the camera on itself, yet it stands out as a testament to the industry's storytelling prowess. This series exemplifies the creative strength of modern television, blending sharp wit with incisive commentary. Seth Rogen, who stars in and co-created the show, reaffirms his place as one of today's most compelling storytellers. His ability to weave humor with heartfelt narrative demands attention, marking The Studio as a must-watch and Rogen as a creative force to follow closely. Those who brought The Studio to The Film Buff. Main Cast: Seth Rogen as Matt Remick (head of Continental Studios) Catherine O'Hara as Patty Leigh (former studio head, Matt's mentor) Ike Barinholtz as Sal Seperstein (Matt's colleague and best friend) Kathryn Hahn as Maya (head of marketing at Continental Studios) Chase Sui Wonders as Quinn (creative executive, Matt's assistant) Bryan Cranston as Griffin Mill (CEO of Continental Studios, guest star) Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Petra (Matt's secretary, guest star) Dewayne Perkins as Tyler (marketing team member, guest star) Rebecca Hall as Linda (Matt's girlfriend, pediatric oncologist) Notable Guest Stars (Appearing as Themselves or in Cameo Roles): Martin Scorsese Anthony Mackie Charlize Theron Zack Snyder Zoë Kravitz Ice Cube Paul Dano Zac Efron Quinta Brunson Ziwe Greta Lee Adam Scott Ron Howard Ted Sarandos Antony Starr Aaron Sorkin Devon Bostick Steve Buscemi Lil Rel Howery Peter Berg David Krumholtz Nicholas Stoller Matt Belloni (voice cameo) Key Crew: Seth Rogen (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer) Evan Goldberg (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer) Peter Huyck (Creator, Executive Producer) Alex Gregory (Creator, Executive Producer) Frida Perez (Creator, Executive Producer) James Weaver (Executive Producer) Alex McAtee (Executive Producer) Josh Fagen (Executive Producer) Production Companies: Point Grey Pictures Lionsgate Television

The Studio, now streaming on Apple TV+, joins a storied tradition of Hollywood turning the camera on itself, yet it stands out as a testament to the industry's storytelling prowess. This series exemplifies the creative strength of modern television, blending sharp wit with incisive commentary. Seth Rogen, who stars in and co-created the show, reaffirms his place as one of today's most compelling storytellers. His ability to weave humor with heartfelt narrative demands attention, marking The Studio as a must-watch and Rogen as a creative force to follow closely.Those who brought The Studio to The Film Buff. Main Cast:Seth Rogen as Matt Remick (head of Continental Studios)Catherine O'Hara as Patty Leigh (former studio head, Matt's mentor)Ike Barinholtz as Sal Seperstein (Matt's colleague and best friend)Kathryn Hahn as Maya (head of marketing at Continental Studios)Chase Sui Wonders as Quinn (creative executive, Matt's assistant)Bryan Cranston as Griffin Mill (CEO of Continental Studios, guest star)Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Petra (Matt's secretary, guest star)Dewayne Perkins as Tyler (marketing team member, guest star)Rebecca Hall as Linda (Matt's girlfriend, pediatric oncologist)Notable Guest Stars (Appearing as Themselves or in Cameo Roles):Martin ScorseseAnthony MackieCharlize TheronZack SnyderZoë KravitzIce CubePaul DanoZac EfronQuinta BrunsonZiweGreta LeeAdam ScottRon HowardTed SarandosAntony StarrAaron SorkinDevon BostickSteve BuscemiLil Rel HoweryPeter BergDavid KrumholtzNicholas StollerMatt Belloni (voice cameo)Key Crew:Seth Rogen (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer)Evan Goldberg (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer)Peter Huyck (Creator, Executive Producer)Alex Gregory (Creator, Executive Producer)Frida Perez (Creator, Executive Producer)James Weaver (Executive Producer)Alex McAtee (Executive Producer)Josh Fagen (Executive Producer)Production Companies:Point Grey PicturesLionsgate Television

From Netflix comes a film crafted to captivate. Has the world rediscovered the joy of simply enjoying a movie, or does a feverish, cynical mindset still strip away the ability to immerse in a story as lives hang in the balance? AKAPAD, The Film Buff, does what he does best: dives into a new Netflix release and breaks it down for you.

Welcome to a Bad Influence Hollywood Spectacular! Join the guys as they talk Chicken Jockey, Asher's Reveiw of Sinners, The Acadamy's new rules, Our Favorite Horror Movies, AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you for letting us be your bad influence.     Music: Universal Theme - Brian Tyler   Academy Award Original Closing Credits Theme Music

From Netflix comes a film crafted to captivate. Has the world rediscovered the joy of simply enjoying a movie, or does a feverish, cynical mindset still strip away the ability to immerse in a story as lives hang in the balance? AKAPAD, The Film Buff, does what he does best: dives into a new Netflix release and breaks it down for you.

Didi (2024), streaming on Hulu, delivers a poignant American drama that revitalizes the genre. This immensely significant film deserves acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the complex, often elusive teenage experience—a theme that has challenged filmmakers across generations.The Film Buff is grateful for those who brought us DIDI. Izaac Wang as Chris Wang (Dìdi)Joan Chen as Chungsing Wang (Chris's mother)Shirley Chen as Vivian Wang (Chris's older sister)Chang Li Hua as Nai Nai (Chris's grandmother)Mahaela Park as Madi (Chris's love interest)Raul Dial as Fahad (Chris's friend)Aaron Chang as Soup (Chris's friend)Chiron Cillia Denk as DonovanSunil Mukherjee Maurillo as Cory (credited as Sunil Maurillo)Montay Boseman as NuggetAlysha Syed as JadeAlaysia Simmons as EllieTarnvir Kamboj as HardeepShiu Fang Wang as Shiu FangJayden Chiang as MaxJoziah Lagonoy as JoshJoshua Hankerson as MackGeorgie August as Georgia (credited as Dalila George August)Director: Sean WangWriter: Sean WangProducers:Executive Producers (under AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, and Maiden Voyage Pictures banners):Music Composer: Giosuè GrecoMusic Supervisor: Toko NagataCinematographer: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Sam A. Davis (Director of Photography)Editor: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Arielle ZakowskiProduction Companies: AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, Maiden Voyage PicturesDistributor: Focus FeaturesCastCrew

Gareth Evans and Netflix deliver a gritty, unrelenting masterpiece with Havoc, a dark, visceral love letter to the action-cop genre. This blood-soaked thrill ride, where corruption taints every soul and no one escapes unscathed by the credits, is a raw, pulse-pounding triumph. The Film Buff is all in for this chaotic, adrenaline-fueled delight! The Film Buff is grateful to those who brought us Havoc. The Cast: Tom Hardy as Walker Jessie Mei Li as Ellie Timothy Olyphant as Vincent Forest Whitaker as Lawrence Beaumont Justin Cornwell as Charlie Quelin Sepulveda as Mia Luis Guzmán as Raul Yeo Yann Yann as Tsui's Mother Sunny Pang as Ching Michelle Waterson as The Assassin Richard Harrington Jeremy Ang Jones as Tsui Fong Gordon Alexander as Hayes Tom Wu Narges Rashidi Jill Winternitz Serhat Metin as Cortez Xelia Mendes-Jones Jim Caesar Sharon D. Clarke Alan Leong The Crew: Gareth Evans – Director, Screenwriter, Producer Tom Hardy – Producer Ed Talfan – Producer Aram Tertzakian – Producer Scott Frank – Additional Literary Material (uncredited) John Lee Hancock – Additional Literary Material (uncredited) Matt Flannery – Director of Photography Tom Pearce – Production Designer Siân Jenkins – Costume Designer Aria Prayogi – Music Sara Jones – Editor Matt Platts-Mills – Editor Gareth Evans – Editor Jude Poyer – Action Designer & Stunt Coordinator Kelly Valentine Hendry – Casting Henry Engelhardt – Executive Producer Diane Briere de L'Isle – Executive Producer Nick Spicer – Executive Producer Nate Bolotin – Executive Producer Andrew Eaton – Executive Producer

Gareth Evans and Netflix deliver a gritty, unrelenting masterpiece with Havoc, a dark, visceral love letter to the action-cop genre. This blood-soaked thrill ride, where corruption taints every soul and no one escapes unscathed by the credits, is a raw, pulse-pounding triumph. The Film Buff is all in for this chaotic, adrenaline-fueled delight!The Film Buff is grateful to those who brought us Havoc. The Cast:Tom Hardy as WalkerJessie Mei Li as EllieTimothy Olyphant as VincentForest Whitaker as Lawrence BeaumontJustin Cornwell as CharlieQuelin Sepulveda as MiaLuis Guzmán as RaulYeo Yann Yann as Tsui's MotherSunny Pang as ChingMichelle Waterson as The AssassinRichard HarringtonJeremy Ang Jones as Tsui FongGordon Alexander as HayesTom WuNarges RashidiJill WinternitzSerhat Metin as CortezXelia Mendes-JonesJim CaesarSharon D. ClarkeAlan LeongThe Crew:Gareth Evans – Director, Screenwriter, ProducerTom Hardy – ProducerEd Talfan – ProducerAram Tertzakian – ProducerScott Frank – Additional Literary Material (uncredited)John Lee Hancock – Additional Literary Material (uncredited)Matt Flannery – Director of PhotographyTom Pearce – Production DesignerSiân Jenkins – Costume DesignerAria Prayogi – MusicSara Jones – EditorMatt Platts-Mills – EditorGareth Evans – EditorJude Poyer – Action Designer & Stunt CoordinatorKelly Valentine Hendry – CastingHenry Engelhardt – Executive ProducerDiane Briere de L'Isle – Executive ProducerNick Spicer – Executive ProducerNate Bolotin – Executive ProducerAndrew Eaton – Executive Producer

Today, Peter A. DeLuca, The Film Buff, dives into Halina Reijn's latest film, Babygirl, a must-see that shouldn't be missed or overlooked, now available on HBO Max.

Today, Peter A. DeLuca, The Film Buff, dives into Halina Reijn's latest film, Babygirl, a must-see that shouldn't be missed or overlooked, now available on HBO Max.

Happy almost-Friday, AKAPAD'ers! The Film Buff is back with another gem sidelined by the pandemic: North Hollywood (2021). This vibrant coming-of-age skate flick would've been a thousand times more celebrated, watched, and loved if COVID hadn't thrown its release off course. Trust us, this one deserves way more hype! #NorthHollywood #HiddenGem North Hollywood is a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Mikey Alfred. It follows Michael (Ryder McLaughlin), a high school graduate in North Hollywood, California, who dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder. Torn between his father Oliver's (Vince Vaughn) expectations of pursuing a conventional career or joining the family construction business, Michael faces tension with his friends and family as he chases his passion. After connecting with professional skaters, he drifts from his childhood friends, who don't share his ambition, and navigates a budding romance. The film explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and balancing personal dreams with familial pressures, set against the vibrant skate culture of Los Angeles. Cast: Ryder McLaughlin as Michael Vince Vaughn as Oliver Miranda Cosgrove as Rachel Nico Hiraga as Jay Aramis Hudson as Adolf Angus Cloud as Walker Tyshawn Jones as Isiah Bob Worrest as Nolan Gillian Jacobs as (uncredited role, noted in reviews) Andrew Reynolds as (cameo, table scene) Louie Lopez as (cameo, table scene) Kader Sylla as (cameo, ticketer) Davonte Jolly as (cameo, skate filmer) Sunny Suljic as Clark (cameo, two appearances) Na-Kel Smith as (cameo, multiple appearances) Zach Saraceno as (cameo, skater) Kevin White as (cameo, skater) Crew: Director: Mikey Alfred Writer: Rusty Johnson Producers: Mikey Alfred, Pharrell Williams, Noah Centineo, Yuri Shulga, Malcolm Washington, Katelin Espitia, Jus Ske Cinematographer: Ayinde Anderson Editor: Mikki Lovitch Production Companies: Illegal Civilization, First Try Productions, Happy Place Music Supervisor: Hal Williams Soundtrack Contributors: (Various artists, noted for complementing skate culture visuals) The film, loosely based on Alfred's life, premiered at SoFi Stadium in March 2021 as a drive-in event and runs for 1 hour and 33 minutes. It's unrated and features a mix of established actors and real professional skaters, reflecting the authentic skateboarding scene.

The Film Buff does not know where to go with this one because 2025's Companion now availanle on HBO MAX offers muliple avennues of disscussion points. This is not a bad problem to have iand is what AKAPAD strives for, Companion is an important film that lends itself as a front runnrer of the greatest AI film ever made. Those who brought us Companion Cast Sophie Thatcher as Iris Jack Quaid as Josh Lukas Gage as Patrick Megan Suri as Kat Harvey Guillén as Eli Rupert Friend as Sergey Jaboukie Young-White as Teddy Matthew J. McCarthy as Sid Marc Menchaca as Deputy Hendrix Ashley Lambert as Josh's Car (voice) Crew Director & Writer: Drew Hancock Producers: Zach Cregger Roy Lee Raphael Margules J.D. Lifshitz Richard Brener (Executive Producer) Jamie Buckner (Executive Producer) Pete Chiappetta (Executive Producer) Andrew Childs (Executive Producer) Andrew Lary (Executive Producer) Josh Mack (Executive Producer) Adam Ridley (Executive Producer) Ryan Ridley (Executive Producer) Tracy Rosenblum (Executive Producer) Paulina Sussman (Executive Producer) Anthony Tittanegro (Executive Producer)​ Cinematography: Eli Born Editing: Brett W. Bachman, Josh Ethier Music: Hrishikesh Hirway Casting: Nancy Nayor Production Design: Scott Kuzio Art Direction: John Duhigg Cox, Naomi Munro Set Decoration: Kendall Anderson Costume Design: Vanessa Porter​

Today, The Film Buff explores the responsibility of watching films like 2073 and appreciating them as presented, without letting personal politics influence the viewing experience.

It's TGIF and The Film Buff is ready for action with Amazon's newest drop G20 Those who brought is G20 Cast: Viola Davis – President Danielle Sutton Anthony Anderson – Derek Sutton Marsai Martin – Serena Sutton Ramón Rodríguez – Agent Manny Ruiz Antony Starr – Corporal Edward Rutledge Douglas Hodge – Prime Minister Oliver Everett Elizabeth Marvel – Treasury Secretary Joanna Worth Sabrina Impacciatore Clark Gregg Christopher Farrar – Demetrius Sutton Crew: Patricia Riggen – Director Caitlin Parrish – Screenplay Erica Weiss – Screenplay Noah Miller – Screenplay, Story Logan Miller – Screenplay, Story Andrew Lazar – Producer Viola Davis – Producer Julius Tennon – Producer David Fliegel – Executive Producer Rob Williams – Executive Producer Danny Sherman – Executive Producer Janine van Assen – Co-Producer Emma E. Hickox – Editor More about G20 In G20 (2025), Viola Davis dominates as U.S. President Danielle Sutton, a war hero turned commander-in-chief thrust into chaos when terrorists, led by a crypto-obsessed ex-soldier (Antony Starr), hijack a G20 summit in Cape Town. With her family and global leaders at risk, Sutton unleashes her military grit in a relentless battle to save them and avert economic disaster. Directed by Patricia Riggen, this action-packed thriller is a great fun flick in the style of Air Force One, delivering high-octane thrills and geopolitical stakes with Davis' magnetic star power front and center.

Luca Guadagnino delivered two films in 2024, and The Film Buff is all in. Given the strength of his previous works, AKAPAD decided to give Challengers another shot—and it did not disappoint. By the end, what unfolds might just be the greatest tennis film ever made. Those who brought us Challengers Main Cast Zendaya as Tashi Duncan Josh O'Connor as Patrick Zweig Mike Faist as Art Donaldson Darnell Appling as New Rochelle Final Umpire Shane Harris as Art's Security Guard Nada Despotovich as Tashi's Mother AJ Lister as Lily Donaldson Naheem Garcia as Tashi's Father Jake Jensen as Finn Larsen Hailey Gates as Helen Crew Director & Writing Director: Luca Guadagnino Writer: Justin Kuritzkes Producers Amy Pascal Luca Guadagnino Zendaya Rachel O'Connor Cinematography & Editing Cinematographer: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom Editor: Marco Costa Music Composer: Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross Production Design Production Designer: Merissa Lombardo Costume Design Costume Designer: Jonathan Anderson Casting Francine Maisler

Today, The Film Buff explores the mastery of director Luca Guadagnino and his ability to construct films that culminate in powerful final shots. This technique aligns so closely with Pete's recent viewings that he insists the film must have been reverse-engineered to achieve this effect. Queer is recently available on HBO MAX. Those who brought us Queer. Daniel Craig as William Lee Drew Starkey as Eugene Allerton Jason Schwartzman as Joe Guidry Lesley Manville as Dr. Cotter Henrique Zaga as Winston Moor Drew Droege as John Dumé Andra Ursuța as Mary Ariel Schulman as Tom Weston Andrés Duprat as Dr. Hernandez Omar Apollo as Chimu Bar Guy David Lowery as Jim Cochran Lisandro Alonso as Mr. Cotter Michaël Borremans as Doctor Ronia Ava as Joan Vollmer Crew Director: Luca Guadagnino Screenwriter: Justin Kuritzkes Producers: Lorenzo Mieli, Luca Guadagnino Executive Producers: Christian Vesper, James Grauerholz, Peter Spears, Elena Recchia, Maria Teresa Monaco Cinematographer: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom Editor: Marco Costa Music: Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross Production Designer: Inbal Weinberg Costume Designer: Jonathan Anderson Casting Directors: Luis Rosales, Maurilio Mangano, Valentina Materiale

A Complete Unknown is now streaming on Hulu, and The Film Buff is here to dive into the career of director James Mangold, the rise of star Timothée Chalamet, and the creative allure of Bob Dylan. Don't miss this episode! Those who brought us A Complete Unknown Timothée Chalamet – Bob Dylan Elle Fanning – Sylvie Russo Monica Barbaro – Joan Baez Boyd Holbrook – Johnny Cash Edward Norton – Pete Seeger Nick Offerman – Alan Loma Corey Stoll – Tom Wilson Vincent D'Onofrio – Albert Grossman Crew: Director: James Mangold Writers: James Mangold, Jay Cocks Producers: James Mangold, Bob Dylan, Brian Kavanaugh-Jones, Andrew Rona, Fred Berger Cinematography: Phedon Papamichael Production Company: Searchlight Picture More about this film. Get ready to go electric! A Complete Unknown, directed by James Mangold, dives into the transformative years of Bob Dylan's career as he shakes up the folk scene and reinvents himself as a rock icon. Starring Timothée Chalamet as the enigmatic singer-songwriter, the film follows Dylan's rise to fame, his controversial switch to electric guitar, and the cultural revolution he helped ignite. With Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro, and Edward Norton rounding out the cast, A Complete Unknown promises a soulful, star-studded journey through music history.

Now streaming on Disney+, The Film Buff dives into Mufasa: The Lion King—a remarkable prequel directed by an Oscar winner. But is it truly an animated feature? Let's break it down!

In 2024, Netflix released another outstanding addition to modern science fiction. What followed was a stark revelation about The Film Buff. Today, Peter urges you to take the time to experience this film, as its lack of press could signal a troubling future for the sci-fi genre as a whole. Those who brought us Bionic Main Cast: Jessica Córes as Maria Gabz as Gabi Bruno Gagliasso Christian Malheiros Kagga Jayson Klebber Toledo Director: Afonso Poyart

While conducting his in-depth study of Daredevil's media appearances for this week's Weekend Animation, The Film Buff examines the Fantastic Four animated series' Season 2 premiere, "And a Blind Man Shall Lead Them." However, the real takeaway from this episode isn't what you might expect. Is Marvel overlooking this accessible yet compelling character during a booming era for comic book adaptations? More about this series and episode. FANTASTIC FOUR – THE CARTOON YOU (KIND OF) FORGOT! Before X-Men: The Animated Series and Spider-Man stole the '90s cartoon spotlight, Marvel threw their first family onto the small screen with Fantastic Four—a show that had one rough start but managed to pull off an epic comeback. Running from 1994 to 1996, this series was part of the Marvel Action Hour alongside Iron Man, and while it didn't set the world on fire (except maybe when Johnny yelled “Flame On!”), it gave us some killer classic comic adaptations—especially in Season 2. SEASON 1: WHAT WENT WRONG? Picture this: weirdly stiff animation, cringe-worthy dialogue, and more camp than a summer retreat. If you ever wanted to hear The Thing rattle off one-liners like he was auditioning for a bad stand-up gig, Season 1 was your jam. Fans weren't exactly clobberin' their way to praise it, but the potential was there. SEASON 2: NOW WE'RE TALKIN'! Cue the glow-up! The second season got a total overhaul, ditching the cheese for serious storytelling, improved animation, and a focus on classic comic arcs. One of the biggest standouts? The season premiere, featuring none other than Marvel's favorite blind lawyer—Daredevil! "AND A BLIND MAN SHALL LEAD THEM" (SEASON 2, EP. 1) Based on Fantastic Four #39-40 (1965) by Stan "The Man" Lee and Jack "King" Kirby, this episode is a true-blue Marvel throwback that packs action, drama, and a touch of legal consultation from Matt Murdock. THE PLOT: After getting wrecked by Doctor Doom, the Fantastic Four lose their powers thanks to a nasty energy blast. No stretching, no invisibility, no rock-smashing—just four regular humans with a serious supervillain problem. With the Baxter Building under siege, Reed Richards does what any genius would do—call a blind lawyer for help. Enter Daredevil, who proves that you don't need sight to throw hands. Using a combo of street smarts and insane agility, Matt helps the team stay in the fight until they can reclaim their powers and put Doom back in his place. WHY THIS EPISODE ROCKS:

Today, The Film Buff makes a passionate case for Den of Thieves 2: Pantera on Netflix. Too many moviegoers misunderstood this film, and he's here to set the record straight. Don't miss out—this sequel deserves your attention.

As Season 3 of HBO's The White Lotus nears its finale, The Film Buff raises a fundamental question: What is the true purpose of this show? Is it a sharp satire of wealth and privilege, an intricate character study, or simply a voyeuristic escape into the world of the ultra-rich? With each season offering new mysteries and moral dilemmas, the answer may be more complex than it seems.

The Film Buff's Saturday Night Message: WATCH THE ELECTRIC STATE This Saturday night, The Film Buff is bringing you an important PSA:

This Friday, The Film Buff dives into Control Freak, the latest Hulu release that signals the rise of a bold new direction in horror. But what exactly is this emerging genre? Why does it matter? And most importantly, why should you experience this film for yourself? Join us as we break down the film's chilling themes, its genre-defining impact, and why Control Freak is a must-watch for horror fans. Those who broughht is Control Freak Cast Kelly Marie Tran – Val Kieu Chinh – Aunt Thuy Scott Takeda – Dr. Chen Callie Johnson – Crystal Miles Robbins – Robbie Zack Gold – Mason Apollo Bacala – Abbot Monk Chelsea Parsons – Rachel Chrissy Morgan – Film Crew Christina Pope – Makeup Artist to Motivational Speaker Ian Choi – Dying Vietnamese Boy Joshua Henry – Monk Justin Piaoan – Young Sang Mikah Fikes – Film Crew Milton Saul – Security Guard Noel Morales – Photographer Nova Mai Murillo – Young Val Samantha Coppola – Ashley Stanley White Jr. – Sanshi Steven Hudson – Monk Toan Le – Sang Vincent Dean – Audience Member Crew Shal Ngo – Writer, Director Arbi Pedrossian – Producer David Brooks – Producer Hatuey Rodriguez – Producer Jenna Cavelle – Producer Miles Alva – Executive Producer Shaum S. Sengupta – Producer More about Control Freak ‘Control Freak' (2025): A Chilling Descent into Supernatural Terror Hulu's Control Freak (2025), directed by Shal Ngo, is a gripping psychological horror film that blends the terror of demonic possession with the high-stakes world of self-help culture. Starring Kelly Marie Tran as Val, a successful yet troubled motivational speaker, the film follows her downward spiral after she becomes infected with a malevolent parasitic entity from her ancestral homeland. As Val's once-perfect life unravels, her struggle to maintain control mirrors the sinister force overtaking her mind and body. With a career built on self-empowerment, she faces the ultimate test: can she conquer a force that thrives on fear and insecurity? The film's tense atmosphere, combined with Ngo's sharp direction, crafts an unnerving portrait of ambition, identity, and the dark forces that lurk beneath the surface. With a supporting cast including Kieu Chinh, Scott Takeda, and Miles Robbins, Control Freak delivers a harrowing journey into the supernatural, pushing the boundaries of psychological horror. The film is set to premiere on Hulu on March 13, 2025, marking one of the streamer's most anticipated horror releases of the yea More about the Kelly Marie Tran Star Wars Drama The Kelly Marie Tran Star Wars controversy stemmed from the intense online harassment she faced after her role as Rose Tico in Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017). Tran, the first Asian woman to have a leading role in the Star Wars franchise, was targeted with racist and sexist abuse by a subset of fans who disliked her character. The harassment became so severe that she eventually deleted her social media accounts and withdrew from the public eye. In response to the bullying, Tran wrote a powerful essay for The New York Times, stating that she had internalized the negativity and began to believe the racist narratives directed at her. She later compared the experience to an "embarrassingly horrible breakup" and spoke about how therapy helped her reclaim her self-worth. Many industry figures, including Mark Hamill and director Rian Johnson, defended her against the online trolls, but the backlash still affected her career, as her character's screen time was significantly reduced in The Rise of Skywalker (2019)​

As episodes of The Film Buff accumulated, a clearer definition of the show began to emerge from the shadows. At its core, The Film Buff is driven by a singular mission: to watch films and ensure that audiences know—without a doubt—that Peter A DeLuca has experienced them firsthand. In a landscape where film criticism is often tainted by fleeting internet opinions and the lingering suspicion that some reviewers may not even watch the films they discuss, The Film Buff stands as a defiant counterpoint. In today's episode, the 2024 musical biopic Better Man is not only watched but thoroughly analyzed, as The Film Buff brings its signature perspective to the story of Robbie Williams. Thos who brought us Better Man. Director: Michael Gracey Producers: Paul Currie Jules Daly Michael Gracey Coco Xiaolu Ma Craig McMahon Screenwriters: Simon Gleeson Oliver Cole Michael Gracey Main Cast: Damon Herriman Kate Mulvany Alison Steadman Steve Pemberton Jake Simmance Robbie Williams Karina Banno Raechelle Banno More about this film. Better Man (2024), directed by The Greatest Showman's Michael Gracey, is a dazzling, heart-wrenching, and deeply personal portrait of British pop icon Robbie Williams. But this isn't just another paint-by-numbers rock biopic. Instead, it's a high-wire act of self-exploration—Williams, known for his brash charisma and razor-sharp wit, serves as both the subject and, in many ways, the narrator of his own story. The film traces his meteoric rise from the starry-eyed teen who joined Take That, to his tumultuous split from the boyband, and onto his record-smashing solo career. Williams' triumphs are balanced against his struggles with addiction, self-doubt, and the unforgiving pressure of fame. But what sets Better Man apart is its playful and unconventional approach—it's part spectacle, part confessional, an introspective rollercoaster that captures the chaos of celebrity life while never losing sight of the man behind the headlines. With Gracey's signature visual flair and Williams' own self-deprecating humor infused into the storytelling, Better Man isn't just a music film; it's a reckoning with stardom, a love letter to the highs and lows of a life lived in the spotlight. If Bohemian Rhapsody was a rock opera and Rocketman was a fantasy, Better Man is something even more audacious—a movie where the star gets to rewrite his own legend, flaws and all.

Dead Money" is exactly the kind of film that fuels AKAPAD The Film Buff's passion for cinema. Join Peter, your obsessive Film Freak, as he dives into why movies like this bring him pure joy. Blending the high-stakes intensity of The Hustler with the over-the-top energy of The Big Hit, this film delivers a unique cinematic punch. But don't worry—The Film Buff is here to break it all down for you More one Dead Money (2024) Dead Money (2024) is a thriller centered around professional poker player Andy and his girlfriend Chloe, who find themselves in a life-threatening situation after a home poker game is robbed. Andy is forced to play the biggest poker game of his life to secure their safety. The film combines gambling elements with high-stakes tension and action. Directed by Luc Walpoth and written by Josh Wilcox, the cast includes Emile Hirsch, David Keith, India Eisley, Jackie Earle Haley, Rory Culkin, and Peter Facinelli​ Those who brought is Dead Money. Cast: Emile Hirsch as Andy David Keith as Jack India Eisley as Chloe Jackie Earle Haley as Wendel AKA Shotgun Rory Culkin as Uncle Lonnie AKA Revolver Peter Facinelli as LT Jimmy Jean-Louis as Faizel Jocelyn Hudon as Kelly Michael Malarkey as Freddy Yung Bleu as Deshawn Jefferson Seth Michaels as Julio Brennan Brown as Bobby Kirkland Noah Segan as Buck Terence Rosemore as Eric Alex Collins as Motivational Speaker Casey Hendershot as Shivan Ron Clinton Smith as Coach Presley Keith as Lily Quinn Bozza as Paul John Crow as Kenji Aoki Fred Galyean as Ryans Kevin Hagan as Vinny D Esosa Idahosa as Douglas Conlan Kisilewicz as Quinten Sara Sometti Michaels as Sara Randall Newsome as Nikolai John Santiago as Clyde Njema Williams as Stan Crew: Director: Luc Walpoth Writer: Josh Wilcox Director of Photography: Ivan Abel Editor: Gardner Gould Music Composer: Mathieu Carratier Producers: Sara Sometti Michaels, Seth Michaels Casting: Shannon Makhanian

The Film Buff dives into the 2024 Best Picture winner, Anora, with unfiltered enthusiasm and sharp analysis.