The Reel Debaters

The Reel Debaters
  • 4.9 (21)
  • TV & FILM
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

FADE IN: INT. PODCAST STUDIO – NIGHT A crew of MOVIE NERDS, COMEDIANS, and INDUSTRY INSIDERS gather around a mic. Laughter, debates, and caffeine-fueled energy fill the air. NARRATOR (V.O.) Movies are serious business. They’re not. MONTAGE: James Bond as a nanny? Indiana Jones and Lara Croft’s married? Conan The Barbarian teaching sex-ed? NARRATOR (V.O.) The Reel Debaters take iconic films, pop culture, and absurd “what ifs,” then debate them to cinematic death. CUT TO: The cast leans in, arguing, laughing, and dissecting every frame. NARRATOR (V.O.) It’s more than a podcast, it’s a big-screen jam session where every frame is a point of contention. TEXT ON SCREEN: Recorded at Sick Bad Panda Studios. Catch us live in Winnipeg for movie trivia nights and film events FADE OUT.

  1. #308 If You Give A Chad A Spot with Finn Mccager Kristen Sawatzky and and Jesse De Rocquigny

    3D AGO

    #308 If You Give A Chad A Spot with Finn Mccager Kristen Sawatzky and and Jesse De Rocquigny

    In Episode 308, the Reel Debaters sit down with the Director Finn McCager, Actor and Stunt performer Kristen Sawatzky and Cinematographer Jesse de Rocquigny of Give a Chad a Spot for a deep dive into the making of the film. This conversation pulls back the curtain on indie filmmaking, creative collaboration, and the choices that shaped the final product you see on screen. We cover: The origin of Give a Chad a Spot and how the story came togetherWriting the script and shaping the film’s toneCasting, performances, and character developmentVisual style, cinematography choices, and lighting choicesThe challenges and rewards of independent filmmakingLessons learned from production and what’s next for the team Watch it here! (The audio in this and a few previous episodes has suffered due to hidden gremlins in our mixer; it has been sorted and should no longer be an issue as we advance. Thank you for your patience) Next Reel Debaters Trivia+ Night Jan 29th @ The Handsome Daughter 61 Sherbrook Ave, Wpg, MB 5 rounds of Themed Trivia, a colouring contest and cosplay challenge all in the theme of........... THE GILMORE GIRLS Tickets on sale now on Eventbrite and thereeldebaters.ca Rush and Limited Seating Doors open at 645, Register at 7, Trivia starts at 730 Episode Sponsors: Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade. Unleash your inner action hero with walk-in axe-throwing, classic arcade games, and cold drinks to celebrate your victories. Whether you’re blowing off steam or settling a movie debate the old-fashioned way, Smash N Axe is Winnipeg’s go-to spot for big throws and high scores. Listener Deal: Get $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing and $5 off a Transcanada Bluebeary Beer when you mention Dr. Smashington. Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade – Winnipeg Throw hard. Game harder. Credits Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode Description: If you give a chad a spot review and interview Guests: Finn McCager, Kristen Sawatzky, Jesse De Rocquigny The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast www.thereeldebaters.ca Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1 hr
  2. #307 "It’s a Wonderful Fight" The Best Secret Santa

    2025-12-28

    #307 "It’s a Wonderful Fight" The Best Secret Santa

    What happens when the Reel Debaters go Secret Santa shopping… for their favourite movie and TV characters? Bad ideas, inspired choices, and a lot of judgment. In Episode 307, the cast debates the perfect Secret Santa gifts if they were shopping for iconic characters, deciding who deserves something thoughtful and who’s getting a wildly inappropriate gag gift. Then it’s back to business with sharp takes on Knives Out, Wake Up Dead Man, reactions to the Jake Paul fight, Bugonia, and more. Reel Debaters Trivia+ Gilmore Girls Trivia+ Night January 29th, at The Handsome Daughter, 61 Sherbrook Ave Tickets On Sale Dec 31st At 10 Am. Follow and subscribe to avoid missing out. Limited Seating. Doors 645 pm, Register 7 pm, Trivia 730pm Episode Sponsors: Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade. Unleash your inner action hero with walk-in axe-throwing, classic arcade games, and cold drinks to celebrate your victories. Whether you’re blowing off steam or settling a movie debate the old-fashioned way, Smash N Axe is Winnipeg’s go-to spot for big throws and high scores. Listener Deal: Get $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing and $5 off a Transcanada Bluebeary Beer when you mention Dr. Smashington. Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade – Winnipeg Throw hard. Game harder. Credits Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Produced by: Jimmy Skinner, Emily Clark, Martin Navarro and Charles Fernandes Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode Description: The Cast shops for their favourite characters and argues about it The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast www.thereeldebaters.ca Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 34m
  3. #306 Doug Morrow and Ashley Hyra. The Make Up From The Long Walk

    2025-12-21

    #306 Doug Morrow and Ashley Hyra. The Make Up From The Long Walk

    This week on The Reel Debaters, we’re heading behind the blood, sweat, and prosthetics with Doug Morrow and Ashley Hyra, the makeup artists behind The Long Walk. Doug and Ashley take us deep into the creative trenches of modern film makeup, breaking down their methods, the realities of working on set, and the problem-solving wizardry required when things do not go according to plan. From long days in the chair to last-minute fixes under pressure, they share candid behind-the-scenes stories straight from production. We also talk about what it’s like working in today’s film industry, how the craft has evolved, and what still keeps them inspired. To round things out, we get personal with what they like to watch when they’re not creating movie magic themselves. Press play and walk with us. Next Reel Debaters Trivia+ Night -January 29th At The Handsome Daughter- -5 rounds of Trivia, a colouring contest and a cosplay challenge- THEME: THE GILMORE GIRLS Tickets on sale January 1st on Eventbrite and thereeldebaters.ca Rush Seating Doors open at 645, Register at 7, Trivia starts at 730 Episode Sponsors: Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade. Unleash your inner action hero with walk-in axe-throwing, classic arcade games, and cold drinks to celebrate your victories. Whether you’re blowing off steam or settling a movie debate the old-fashioned way, Smash N Axe is Winnipeg’s go-to spot for big throws and high scores. Listener Deal: Get $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing and $5 off a Transcanada Bluebeary Beer when you mention Dr. Smashington. Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade – Winnipeg Throw hard. Game harder. Credits Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Produced by: Jimmy Skinner Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode Description: The Long Walk Make Up Team Guests: Doug Morrow and Ashley Hyra The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast www.thereeldebaters.ca Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 37m
  4. #305 Fatal Adaptation. When movies go episodic

    2025-12-14

    #305 Fatal Adaptation. When movies go episodic

    On Episode 305 of The Reel Debaters, we debate the best movies adapted for television. Some films thrive when stretched into episodic storytelling, gaining depth, character arcs, and cultural staying power. Others lose what made them special the moment the opening credits roll. From prestige series to cult curiosities, this is a no-holds-barred debate on when adaptation elevates the original… and when it pulls the plug. 🎙️ Topics include: Why Hollywood keeps adapting movies for TVFilms that became stronger as a seriesAdaptations that misunderstood the sourceNostalgia vs reinventionA game of what genres and themes we should never touch Reel Debaters Trivia+Next Trivia Night: January 29th at The Handsome Daughter Vote now on this post for your choice till January 31st: Gilmore Girls...WHICH IS WINNING! The Sopranos Shrek Buffy The Vampire Slayer Tickets on Sale Soon. Subscribe now so you don't miss out. This episode of The Reel Debaters is sponsored by Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade. Unleash your inner action hero with walk-in axe-throwing, classic arcade games, and cold drinks to celebrate your victories. Whether you’re blowing off steam or settling a movie debate the old-fashioned way, Smash N Axe is Winnipeg’s go-to spot for big throws and high scores. Listener Deal: Get $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing and $5 off a Transcanada Bluebeary Beer when you mention the code: Dr. Smashington. Smash N Axe Throwing & Arcade Winnipeg Throw hard. Game harder. Credits Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Produced by: Jimmy Skinner Charles Fernandes Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode: Movies Adapted for television and streaming The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast www.thereeldebaters.ca Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 27m
  5. #304 Aaron Merke and Safehaven

    2025-12-07

    #304 Aaron Merke and Safehaven

    This week, we descend into the shadowy corridors of Safehaven, the new supernatural thriller premiering on Tubi. This week's guest is a double-threat force behind the series: the head of special FX and makeup design and the actor who steps into the enigmatic role of Francis Zelk, Aaron Merke We get to find out more about the architect behind Safehaven’s bruised dreamscapes and haunting practical effects, and also being one of the faces pulling you deeper into the show’s mystery. On this episode, he walks us through the strange dance of designing terror for the cast while performing within it. From early concept sketches to surreal on-set moments, from building creatures out of psychology to embodying a character tied to the show’s unsettling atmosphere, we explore how Safehaven’s world was stitched together. About SAFEHAVEN Based on the graphic novel, Safehaven follows Jenna Frost, a teenager tormented by visions that claw at her sanity and reality. As those visions take shape, the town’s darkest corners crawl into the light. The series blends psychological horror, supernatural lore, and YA drama into one slow-burning nightmare. Credits The Reel Debaters Podcast is produced by Sick Bad Panda Studios in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 🎙️ Executive Producer: Michael Petrow 🎧 Produced by: Emily Clark 🎛️ Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios 🎬 Episode: Aaron Merke from Safehaven 🎤 Featuring Guests: Aaron Merke Subscribe at TheReelDebaters.ca and wherever you get your podcasts. Drop your questions, hot takes, or film ideas on our voicemail — click the mic on our website. Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast www.thereeldebaters.ca thereeldebaters@gmail.com Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 18m
  6. #303 "A Tale Of 2 Witches" The Wicked Episode

    2025-11-30

    #303 "A Tale Of 2 Witches" The Wicked Episode

    We’re heading back to Oz — and this time, it’s all about the movie. Episode 304 is your full-blown Reel Talk review of Wicked (2024) It's all on the table: the performances, the music, the visuals, the changes from the stage, and whether the movie sticks the landing as one of the most anticipated musical adaptations of the decade. We break down everything, including: Did Wicked, the movie, hit the emotional beats fans expected? Ariana Grande vs. Broadway Glinda — who floats higher? Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba: misunderstood icon or emerald hurricane? The songs — which ones soared and which ones felt… magically mid? CGI, chemistry, choreography… and yes, who actually hit those notes. Is this the future of musical blockbusters or just another glossy adaptation? Expect classic Reel Debaters chaos: bold opinions, friendly yelling, unlicensed attempts at the high notes, and at least one of us trying not to cry at “Defying Gravity.” Short reactions to what else we watched this week: Pluribus — still looking for someone who’s seen it. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives — Whitney, please. The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker — the chaotic neutral energy is real. HIM — horror? comedy? emotional damage? You decide. CHRISTMAS MOVIE TRIVIA+December 6 • 7:30 pm Little Brown Jug — 335 William Ave 5 rounds of holiday movie trivia, ugly sweater competition, seasonal colouring contest, and prizes (even for those who insist Die Hard isn’t a Christmas movie — you monsters). Drink great beer, win great things, and watch us confidently mispronounce reindeer names. EPISODE SPONSOR: Smash N Axe Arcade Disco Axe throwing. Arcade nostalgia. Neon-lit chaos. Use code: DR SMASHINGTON $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing $5 off a TransCanada Bluebeary Beer when you mention Dr Smashington at the bar Leave Us a Voicemail Drop your Wicked (2024) review at: thereeldebaters.ca Credits Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Produced by: Jimmy Skinner, Charles Fernandes, Emily Clark Recorded and Mixed at Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode: Wicked Movie Reel Talk The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 44m
  7. #302 "Dial M for Membership" The Best Streaming Site

    2025-11-16

    #302 "Dial M for Membership" The Best Streaming Site

    Set your profile icon, because Episode 301 goes full cinematic cage match as we throw eight streaming giants into a single-elimination showdown. Who keeps autoplaying their way to victory? Who freezes on the loading screen? And which service becomes the true King of the Content Jungle Topics: Wpg Comic Con 2025/Cute As Can Be Vendor Shoutout/London Listens To The Show?/We Love Paul Gross/ We also roll out fresh reviews including: MJ: The Musical IT: Welcome to Derry Netflix’s Frankenstein Featuring: Michael Petrow, Jimmy Skinner & Charles Fernandes Holiday Featurette: Christmas Movie Trivia+ Night!December 6th – Little Brown Jug Brewery 335 William Ave, Wpg, MB 5 rounds of Trivia/Ugly Sweater Contest/Cosplay Face-Off/ Christmas Coloring Contest Prizes, laughs, drinks, and probably at least one Krampus question argument. 🎟️ Tickets on sale now! Come get festive, competitive, and possibly roasted by us. Hit play, hit subscribe, hit whoever you have to see us show up each week in your player and don’t forget: Smash N Axe Arcade Disco is backing this episode — go support your local axe-throwing, arcade-powered party palace. Mention Dr. Smashington for $15 off your first hour of walk-in axe throwing and $5 TransCanada Bluebeary Beer! Credits The Reel Debaters Podcast is produced by Sick Bad Panda Studios in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Executive Producer: Michael Petrow Produced by: Jimmy Skinner Charles Fernandes Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Episode: The Best Streaming Service Special thanks to our sponsors and partners: Smash N Axe & Arcade Disco — Winnipeg’s most explosive axe-throwing and retro gaming experience! Visit smashnaxe.com for details. The Reel Debaters Podcast combines movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — all from the heart of Winnipeg’s growing film community. Proudly made in Manitoba, where Canada makes movies Connect with The Reel Debaters Podcast thereeldebaters.ca thereeldebaters@gmail.com Instagram / threads / Facebook: @reeldebaterspod Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts

    1h 51m
  8. #301 Three Men, a Little Lady and "The End Of Our Own Making"

    2025-11-09

    #301 Three Men, a Little Lady and "The End Of Our Own Making"

    In this episode of The Reel Debaters Podcast, we sit down with the creative minds behind The End Of Our Own Making — a tense, character-driven Winnipeg production that explores the fallout of an active shooter targeting the staff of a private security company. Host Michael Petrow is joined by writer/director Cam Paterson, actors Darcy Fehr and Suzanne Pringle, and director of photography Ryan Herdman to unpack the emotional weight, creative process, and technical challenges of bringing such a raw and relevant story to life. From crafting tension in confined spaces to navigating the emotional toll of portraying trauma, the team dives deep into what it means to tell a story that reflects both humanity’s fragility and resilience. They also discuss: How the script evolved from concept to screenThe importance of authenticity in performance and productionCapturing intensity through cinematography and soundThe collaborative spirit of Manitoba’s film communityWhy The End Of Our Own Making is more than just a thriller—it’s a mirror to the world we live in Whether you’re a filmmaker, cinephile, or supporter of local cinema, this episode shines a spotlight on the depth and talent of Manitoba’s indie film scene. The Reel Debaters Podcast — produced by Sick Bad Panda Studios in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. 🎙️ Executive Producer: Michael Petrow 🎛️ Recorded at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios Special thanks to our sponsors and community partners: Thanks to our sponsor, Smash N Axe Arcade Disco Winnipeg — axe throwing, smash rooms, arcade games, drinks, and deals for Reel Debaters listeners. Mention Discount Code Dr. Smashington for $15 off Walk-In Axe Throwing and a $5 Transcanada Bluebeary Beer! About the Show: The Reel Debaters Podcast blends movie debates, reviews, and interviews with filmmakers, actors, and creatives from across Canada and beyond — recorded right here in Winnipeg’s thriving film scene. Follow & Subscribe: thereeldebaters.ca 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & YouTube

    1h 26m
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4.9
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

FADE IN: INT. PODCAST STUDIO – NIGHT A crew of MOVIE NERDS, COMEDIANS, and INDUSTRY INSIDERS gather around a mic. Laughter, debates, and caffeine-fueled energy fill the air. NARRATOR (V.O.) Movies are serious business. They’re not. MONTAGE: James Bond as a nanny? Indiana Jones and Lara Croft’s married? Conan The Barbarian teaching sex-ed? NARRATOR (V.O.) The Reel Debaters take iconic films, pop culture, and absurd “what ifs,” then debate them to cinematic death. CUT TO: The cast leans in, arguing, laughing, and dissecting every frame. NARRATOR (V.O.) It’s more than a podcast, it’s a big-screen jam session where every frame is a point of contention. TEXT ON SCREEN: Recorded at Sick Bad Panda Studios. Catch us live in Winnipeg for movie trivia nights and film events FADE OUT.

Information

  • Creator
    The Reel Debaters
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    301
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    DEBATED © Sick Bad Panda Studios
  • Show Website
    The Reel Debaters