Movie Wars

2-Vices Media
Movie Wars

A panel of stand-up comedians blends humor with deep film analysis, using their unique ‘War Card’ system to grade movies across key categories. Each episode delivers thoughtful insights and spirited debate, offering a fresh, comedic take on film critique. New episode every Tuesday!

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    The Northman

    This podcast episode delves into the cinematic exploration of Robert Eggers' film, "The Northman," presenting it as a quintessential epic that transcends conventional storytelling. We engage in a thorough analysis of the film's historical accuracy, character development, and the unique directorial style of Eggers, who has emerged as a significant auteur in contemporary cinema. Our discussion encompasses the film's profound thematic elements, such as revenge and destiny, while also examining the profound impact of its visual aesthetics and sound design. We express our admiration for the cast's performances, particularly highlighting the complexities brought forth by Nicole Kidman and Alexander Skarsgård. Ultimately, we advocate for the film's recognition as a modern epic that offers a stark yet compelling glimpse into the Norse mythology and the human condition, urging our audience to appreciate its artistry and depth. The discussion commences with an introduction to the guest, John Detoy, a notable comedian from Nashville, who has recently returned from touring. The conversation explores various facets of Detoy's career, notably his recent performances and his hosting role at the Nateland show. The episode also delves into the cultural significance of New Orleans, with a light touch on local delicacies such as king cake, and transitions into a more profound examination of the film 'The Northman.' The hosts express their admiration for the film, highlighting its rich storytelling and historical accuracy, which sets it apart from traditional epics like 'Gladiator' and 'Braveheart.' They emphasize that 'The Northman' embodies a personal journey of revenge, devoid of the sensationalism often present in Hollywood epics. As the episode unfolds, they dissect the film's themes and cinematography, lauding its artistic merit and Eggers' meticulous attention to detail, which reflects a commitment to authenticity in storytelling. Takeaways: The podcast discusses the film 'The Northman' and its artistic interpretation of Norse mythology. Robert Eggers' dedication to historical accuracy in filmmaking is a prominent theme throughout the episode. The dialogue and character development in 'The Northman' are analyzed for their depth and complexity. The hosts express their admiration for the strong performances of the cast, particularly Nicole Kidman and Alexander Skarsgard. Companies mentioned in this episode: Spirit Airlines Honest Fox Productions Mentioned in this episode: Shoot The Flick Podcast

    1h 21m
  2. 4 MAR

    Brazil

    This podcast episode delves into the intricate layers and profound themes of Terry Gilliam's cinematic masterpiece, "Brazil." We explore how the film serves as a poignant critique of bureaucracy, illustrating a dystopian world where absurdity permeates daily life. As we dissect the film's visual style and narrative structure, we emphasize the significance of its surrealistic elements, allowing viewers to perceive the world through a lens that questions authority and societal norms. The conversation also touches upon the film's historical context, relating its relevance to contemporary issues. Ultimately, we celebrate "Brazil" not merely as a film but as a catalyst for introspection and dialogue regarding the human condition in an increasingly mechanized society. Kyle was honored to be joined by Seth Keys and our guest host, Mozart Gabriel, who most recently directed Metallica's music video "Inamorata." More on Mozart: Gabriel is the son of Native American famous artist Tony Abeyta, and up runner Project Runway season 11 star Patricia Michaels. Born in Santa Fé NM. Gabriel was raised in Chicago IL, till the age of 5 and moved back to his native Reservation Taos NM. From 2000-2003 Gabriel was home school in the fine arts in Venice Italy by his mother and his father who attended his Masters in NYU. Gabriel took part in theater in New York, and landed small parts with Nickelodeon, a Nisa commercial, and the Ron Howard film The Missing. Gabriel was A student for the 3 years he attended in Landmark School for his struggles in Dyslexia. Soon after he spent 2 years at the Chicago Academy of The Art's for Music and Media Arts. Graduating from From Vancouver Film School in 2012, along with his acceptance as a Sundance Institute Fellowship Writer. He worked in Nashville TN for 2 years producing Music Videos, for The Foxies, Stereo Specter, and Hannah Aldridge. Enjoy ads from our friends over at Revisionist Almanac and Greatest Movie of All-Time Podcast. The discourse surrounding Terry Gilliam's cinematic opus, Brazil, offers a profound exploration of the absurdity and intricacies of modern bureaucratic systems. The film serves as a critical lens through which we can examine the dystopian realities of a society ensnared by its own convoluted regulations and technological advancements. As the protagonists navigate a world rife with inefficiencies, the narrative unveils the most critical takeaways: the perils of complacency within an authoritative structure and the inherent folly of a system that prioritizes conformity over individuality. The podcast encapsulates these themes, reflecting on the film's darkly comedic portrayal of a future that mirrors contemporary anxieties about governmental overreach and the dehumanization that ensues from an over-reliance on technology. Each speaker articulates their personal connection to the film, revealing how its surrealistic yet familiar landscape resonates with their own experiences of navigating modern societal expectations. Takeaways: The film 'Brazil' serves as a profound critique of bureaucracy, highlighting the absurdity of an overly complex system that stifles individuality and creativity. The cinematography in 'Brazil' effectively creates a surreal atmosphere, immersing the audience in a dystopian world filled with chaotic yet visually stunning imagery. Terry Gilliam's unique storytelling approach blends humor with dark themes, encouraging viewers to reflect on the implications of technological...

    1h 38m
  3. 25 FEB

    Before The Devil Knows You're Dead

    "Before The Devil Knows You're Dead" serves as a profound exploration of familial dysfunction, characterized by the stark performances of Ethan Hawke and Philip Seymour Hoffman, under the masterful direction of Sidney Lumet in his final cinematic endeavor. Kyle was honored to be joined by Seth Keys and our guest host, Mozart Gabriel, who most recently directed Metallica's music video "Inamorata." More on Mozart: Gabriel is the son of Native American famous artist Tony Abeyta, and up runner Project Runway season 11 star Patricia Michaels. Born in Santa Fé NM. Gabriel was raised in Chicago IL, till the age of 5 and moved back to his native Reservation Taos NM. From 2000-2003 Gabriel was home school in the fine arts in Venice Italy by his mother and his father who attended his Masters in NYU. Gabriel took part in theater in New York, and landed small parts with Nickelodeon, a Nisa commercial, and the Ron Howard film The Missing. Gabriel was A student for the 3 years he attended in Landmark School for his struggles in Dyslexia. Soon after he spent 2 years at the Chicago Academy of The Art's for Music and Media Arts. Graduating from From Vancouver Film School in 2012, along with his acceptance as a Sundance Institute Fellowship Writer. He worked in Nashville TN for 2 years producing Music Videos, for The Foxies, Stereo Specter, and Hannah Aldridge. Enjoy ads from our friends over at Revisionist Almanac and Shoot The Flick. The episode delves into the intricate dynamics of the characters, whose seemingly simplistic motivations rest beneath the surface of a heist gone awry—a narrative device that Lumet employs to expose the moral decay and emotional turmoil that permeate their lives. We examine how the screenplay, penned by Kelly Masterson, effectively intertwines elements of suspense with deeply personal stakes, reflecting the complexities of betrayal and desperation. As we dissect the film's thematic richness, we also contemplate the broader implications of its portrayal of New York City, challenging the notion of the metropolis as merely a backdrop, while recognizing its role as an active participant in the narrative. Join us as we unravel the layers of this compelling film, revealing insights that resonate with the essence of human frailty and aspiration. Takeaways: The film 'Before The Devil Knows You're Dead' serves as a profound exploration of familial dysfunction, showcasing the dark undercurrents that can exist within perceived ordinary lives. Ethan Hawke and Philip Seymour Hoffman's performances are lauded for their depth, highlighting the nuanced portrayal of complex emotional states that resonate with audiences. The screenplay, penned by Kelly Masterson, reflects a remarkable debut at the age of 50, emphasizing the idea that it is never too late to pursue one's passion in filmmaking. Director Sidney Lumet's final film encapsulates his lifelong mastery of storytelling, blending tension and character development in a manner that is both compelling and unsettling. The film's editing style, reminiscent of works like 'Pulp Fiction', reinforces the narrative's urgency while maintaining a rhythmic flow that keeps viewers engaged throughout its duration. The use of New York City as a backdrop is subtly integrated, yet it raises questions about the authenticity of the setting, suggesting that the emotional landscape is more critical than the geographic one. Companies mentioned in this episode: Columbia...

    1h 29m
  4. 18 FEB

    Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

    Kyle has his friend, standup comedian, and film critic Matthew Blevins join for the final entry of the Movie Wars Mad Max series. We close out with the controversial final chapter, Furiosa. We delve into the stark contrasts between this latest installment and its predecessors, particularly focusing on the diminished depth of character and narrative coherence that plagued "Furiosa." Our discourse scrutinizes the portrayal of the titular character, Furiosa, as well as the lack of engaging villains, which ultimately detracts from the film's potential impact. Furthermore, we explore the overall cinematic techniques employed, lamenting the absence of the gritty realism and imaginative vehicle design that characterized earlier films in the series. This examination culminates in a broader reflection on the evolution of the franchise, as we ponder the implications of its current trajectory within the realm of action cinema. Stoked to feature ads from our friend's Greatest Movie of All-Time Podcast and Shoot The Flick! Takeaways: The podcast episode delves into the contrasting elements of the Mad Max franchise, particularly focusing on the film 'Furiosa' and its perceived shortcomings compared to earlier installments. Listeners are informed about the significance of character depth within the franchise, highlighting how characters in 'Furiosa' lack the complexity and engagement seen in previous films. The hosts express their disappointment with the film's visual aesthetics, noting that the vehicles and settings were not as imaginative or compelling as those in 'Fury Road' or 'Road Warrior'. A critical analysis of the film's narrative structure reveals a lack of the Western archetype that has been central to the franchise, leading to a diminished sense of urgency and engagement. The discussion touches on how the performances in 'Furiosa' did not resonate well with the audience due to lackluster writing and character development, particularly in the portrayal of the antagonist. Overall, the hosts conclude that while 'Furiosa' attempts to expand the Mad Max universe, it ultimately fails to capture the essence that made the original films iconic. Companies mentioned in this episode: Mad Max Furiosa Ghostbusters Road Warrior Beyond Thunderdome Kill Bill Silence of the Lambs Red Dragon Zuckerberg Deer Hunter Snyder Gemini Man Thomas Harris Seth Robert Eggers Cyberpunk 2077 The Witch The Northman Fury Road Zack Snyder Fig Newtons Mentioned in this episode: The Greatest Movie Of All-Time Podcast Thankful for our friends over at The Greatest Movie Of All Time podcast. Brilliant, go check them out. Shoot The Flick Podcast

    1h 25m
  5. 11 FEB

    Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021)

    The culmination of our exploration into the Snyder Trilogy series has arrived, as we delve into the intricacies of Zack Snyder's Justice League, a project emblematic of the profound influence of fan advocacy in contemporary cinema. The episode is punctuated by a thoughtful examination of the transformative journey from the initial theatrical release to the acclaimed Snyder Cut, which has engendered a fervent discourse surrounding artistic integrity and creator vision. We will scrutinize pivotal themes, such as the depth of character development afforded to figures like Cyborg and the ramifications of the narrative's darker undertones. In the context of James Gunn's recent Superman trailer, we reflect upon the evolution of the superhero genre and its intersection with societal expectations. Join us as we navigate the complexities and nuances that define this cinematic landscape, culminating in a comprehensive assessment of Snyder's artistic contributions and the resultant legacy of his work. Takeaways: The Snyder Cut represents a significant turning point in fan influence over film production, showcasing the power of social media campaigns. In this episode, we critically analyze the contrasts between Zack Snyder's Justice League and the theatrical version, emphasizing character depth and narrative coherence. The introduction of Darkseid adds a layer of complexity to the plot, enhancing the stakes and the overall story arc of the DCEU. Cyborg's character development serves as a compelling focal point, illustrating themes of identity and belonging within a superhero context. The podcast delves into the stylistic choices of Snyder's direction, particularly his use of slow motion and visual storytelling techniques that polarize audiences. Ultimately, this installment of the Snyder Trilogy series reflects on the potential future of the DCEU and the possibilities that lay beyond the Snyder Cut. Companies mentioned in this episode: Warner Brothers HBO Max Netflix Mentioned in this episode: The Greatest Movie Of All-Time Podcast Thankful for our friends over at The Greatest Movie Of All Time podcast. Brilliant, go check them out. Shoot The Flick Podcast

    1h 36m
  6. 4 FEB

    Justice League (2017)

    The third episode of our Snyder trilogy series delves into the much-maligned Joss Whedon version of Justice League, often referred to as JOSSTICE LEAGUE. This film, criticized for its lack of cohesive storytelling and character development, represents a stark departure from Zack Snyder's envisioned narrative. The hosts dissect the significant issues that arose during production, including the poor treatment of cast members and the noticeable tonal shifts that left audiences disengaged. With a focus on the cast's performance, they explore how the actors seemed exhausted and uninvested, reflecting the chaotic environment behind the scenes. Ultimately, the episode underscores the sentiment that Joss Whedon's approach diluted the potential of beloved characters and failed to deliver a satisfying cinematic experience. Stoked to feature ads from our friend's Greatest Movie of All-Time Podcast and Shoot The Flick! Takeaways: The drastic difference between Snyder's and Whedon's versions highlights the impact of directorial vision. Joss Whedon's changes to the script and characters led to a significant loss of quality. The character development present in Snyder's cut makes the Justice League story more engaging. The open discussion around the filmmaking process reveals the dysfunction within DC's creative team. Superman and Cyborg's portrayals suffered under Whedon's direction, leading to a lack of depth. The podcast emphasizes the importance of character continuity and emotional investment in superhero films. Mentioned in this episode: The Greatest Movie Of All-Time Podcast Thankful for our friends over at The Greatest Movie Of All Time podcast. Brilliant, go check them out. Shoot The Flick Podcast

    1h 36m
  7. 31 JAN

    Conversation with Producer/Screenwriter Adam Simon

    Adam G. Simon (also known as Adam Gregory Simon) is a Los Angeles-born screenwriter, producer, and actor for television and film who now resides and produces In Southeast Asia with his partner Larissa Andrade, where they are raising their son. As a writer, Adam is known for his work as the writer of Point Blank (2019) an action film for Netflix, based on Fred Cavaye's French Action Thriller, "A Bout Portant". The film was directed by Joe Lynch and stars Anthony Mackie, Marcia Gay Harden, Frank Grillo, Teyonah Paris, Boris McGiver, and Markice Moore. While critics mostly panned the film, it went on to find a large audience and in 2024, years after its debut, reemerged on Netflix as the sixth most-watched film globally. Adam is the lead writer of One Day in October (2024) an eight-episode series surrounding the events of October 7, 2023, and shot on location in Israel. The series is being distributed by Fox Global with a 2025 release date. Adam also penned the screenplay for Man Down (2015) a psychological war drama directed by Dito Montiel which stars Shia LaBeouf, Gary Oldman, Jai Courtney, and Kate Mara. The film debuted at the Venice Italy Film Festival. As a producer: Adam G. Simon is a Producer on The Dreadful a period horror film directed by Natasha Kermani. The film stars Sophie Turner, Kit Harington, Marcia Gay Harden and Laurence O'Fuarain. In 2023 Adam reunited with Dito Montiel to Executive Produce Riff Raff (2024) A dark comedy that stars Jennifer Coolidge, Bill Murray, Pete Davidson, Ed Harris, and Gabrielle Union. The film was accepted to the 2024 Toronto Film Festival where it made its debut. He executive produced The Performance (2023) a film by Shira Piven that stars Jeremy Piven, Robert Carlyle, and Maime McCoy based on the Arthur Miller short story of the same name. Adam is developing Hit Kick Punch Kill an action-comedy he wrote and is producing with StoryBoard Media slated for 2025. Adam and Filmmaker Joe Carnahan co-wrote The Brass Catchers, an action thriller that they are producing together. Adam produced On Our Way (2021) a coming-of-age film that stars James Badge Dale, Jordana Brewster, Michael Richardson, Vanessa Redgrave, and Keith Powers. Before starting his professional career as a writer and producer, Adam worked as a bodyguard and close protection specialist. He is an advocate for the homeless having been homeless himself while writing Man Down and speaks as an advocate for homeless veterans and survivors of abuse. Kyle welcomes writer, producer, and actor Adam G. Simon for an engaging conversation that dives deep into the film industry and the impact of artificial intelligence on...

    1h 44m
  8. 28 JAN

    Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn Of Justice

    Welcome back to the Movie Wars Podcast as we dive deep into the controversial waters of Zack Snyder's Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn Of Justice. We're continuing our exploration of Snyder's trilogy as James Gunn's "Superman" trailers makes the rounds. This episode explores the divisive nature of the film, sparked by the recent release of James Gunn's Superman trailer, which has reignited discussions about the character's portrayal on screen. Our hosts passionately debate the strengths and weaknesses of the film, focusing on the impact of Jesse Eisenberg's interpretation of Lex Luthor and the underwhelming representation of Doomsday. As they dissect the cinematography, editing, and overall storytelling, they reflect on how Snyder set the stage for a cinematic universe that many believe fell short of its potential. Join us as we navigate through the highs and lows of this superhero epic, revealing insights that may just change the way you view this pivotal film in the DC franchise. Stoked to feature ads from our friend's Greatest Movie of All-Time Podcast and Shoot The Flick! Delving into the contentious and multifaceted narrative of Zack Snyder's 'Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice,' this episode of the podcast offers an in-depth examination of the film's impact and legacy. The conversation begins with the context of the Snyder Trilogy, particularly in light of James Gunn's recent Superman trailer release, setting the stage for a discussion that spans both admiration and critique. The hosts navigate through the film's thematic elements, focusing on the moral dilemmas faced by Batman and Superman and how these reflect on the nature of justice and heroism. They engage in a critical analysis of the much-discussed Martha scene, weighing its emotional resonance against the overall narrative structure of the film. In addition to thematic explorations, the hosts dissect the performances of the lead actors, particularly Ben Affleck's portrayal of Batman. They discuss how Affleck's physicality and emotional depth contribute to a more complex version of the character, contrasting it with previous iterations. Eisenberg's portrayal of Lex Luthor is also scrutinized, with hosts debating whether his eccentric take aligns with the character's traditional attributes or detracts from the story's weight. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the film within the context of the larger superhero genre and its reception by audiences and critics alike. As the discussion progresses, the hosts reflect on the cinematographic choices made by Snyder, praising the visual storytelling while also critiquing the pacing and editing of the film. They address how these decisions affect the audience's engagement and emotional investment in the characters. The episode culminates in a collective reflection on the film's place within the DC Extended Universe and what it signifies for future adaptations of iconic characters. Ultimately, this podcast serves as a platform for rich dialogue about the intricacies of storytelling in superhero cinema, inviting listeners to revisit 'Batman Vs. Superman' with a more nuanced perspective. Takeaways: The podcast dives into the controversial aspects of Batman vs. Superman, discussing its divisive nature among fans. Host emphasizes that both Batman and Superman have unique character arcs that unfold throughout the film. The panel reflects on how Jesse Eisenberg's portrayal of Lex Luthor deviates from traditional interpretations of the character. Listeners are reminded of the significance of the Martha scene and its impact on the story's emotional depth. The discussion touches on how the film's editing and pacing affect the overall...

    1h 42m

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A panel of stand-up comedians blends humor with deep film analysis, using their unique ‘War Card’ system to grade movies across key categories. Each episode delivers thoughtful insights and spirited debate, offering a fresh, comedic take on film critique. New episode every Tuesday!

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