Media Matters Podcast Network

Michael Wilson
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Visual Arts
  • Updated Weekly

HIT OR MISS: WHO TREK A Star Trek and a Doctor Who Podcast celebrating every visual part of the franchises, from 1963 to the present day. Honest but respectful reviews, episode discussions, general chat & interviews. SILVER SCREEN Film reviews and analysis from Film Studies BA graduate Michael Wilson, his knowledgeable but enigmatic co-host D.K and a host of fellow cinephile guests. In 60-90 minutes they'll review and analyse new releases, classics, guilty pleasures and films they love, hate, or love to hate.

  1. 6d ago

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Bride of Chaotica!" (VOY) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 4 - "For weeks afterwards we were going around shouting "invaders from the Fifth Dimension!" to each other." What happens when Star Trek pays tribute to the science fiction that inspired it? This week on Hit or Miss Star Trek, Captain Michael Wilson is joined by returning First Officer DK and returning guest Mary to revisit one of Star Trek: Voyager's most gloriously entertaining adventures: Bride of Chaotica! Together we celebrate an episode that transforms the holodeck into a black-and-white movie serial inspired by the likes of Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers, complete with melodramatic villains, fearless heroes, crackling death rays and scenery-chewing performances. Along the way we discuss Kate Mulgrew's unforgettable turn as Queen Arachnia, Voyager's wonderfully theatrical embrace of classic sci-fi, the episode's remarkable production story, and why this affectionate parody has become one of the franchise's most beloved holodeck adventures. As always, there's Behind the Scenes trivia, Poetry Corner (including limericks from both DK and Mary!), favourite moments and quotes, our regular Hit or Miss section, and plenty of laughter as we decide whether this monochrome adventure deserves its legendary reputation. So fire up the rocket ship, beware the Death Ray, and don't let the photonic invaders mistake you for one of Chaotica's henchmen as you join us for one of Star Trek's most joyful celebrations of classic science fiction. Links: • Follow Mary on Threads - @flutemusikcosplay • Follow Mary on BlueSky - @flutemusik Follow DK everywhere - https://linktr.ee/DannyKingdom?utm_source=threads&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson Co-host - D.K Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar "We're right there with you Kate. We had a blast"

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Bride of Chaotica!" (VOY) Review & More

  2. Jul 18

    SSP Cinema Classics 29 - The Haunting (1963) Review

    Cinema Classics Number 29 - "Supposing it is in my imagination. The knocking, the voices. Everything! Every cursed bit of the haunting. Suppose the haunting is all in my mind." Welcome back to Silver Screen Cinema Classics, where we revisit the films that defined their genres, influenced generations of filmmakers, and continue to spark debate. This month, Michael is joined by Neil and Michelle from I Is For Investigate podcast to step through the doors of Hill House and explore Robert Wise's 1963 classic, The Haunting. Is Hill House genuinely haunted, or are we witnessing the slow collapse of a troubled mind? Together, we examine the film's unique approach to horror, its masterful atmosphere, and the filmmaking techniques that continue to unsettle audiences more than sixty years later. We discuss Nelson Gidding's screenplay and its ambiguous interpretation of Jackson's story, Julie Harris' extraordinary performance as Eleanor, and Robert Wise's remarkable direction, which relies on suggestion, sound design and psychological unease rather than overt shocks. Along the way we delve into the innovative camera work, distorted lenses, practical effects and groundbreaking sound design, as well as the film's fascinating production history and its lasting influence on everything from The Blair Witch Project to Paranormal Activity. We also consider the film's portrayal of Theodora, its themes of loneliness and belonging, and why audiences continue to disagree over whether The Haunting is one of the scariest films ever made or simply one of the most effective exercises in psychological suggestion. As always, we round things off by choosing our favourite characters, moments and lines before delivering our final verdicts on a film that remains a landmark of supernatural cinema. So lock the doors, keep the lights on, and join us as we investigate the mysteries of Hill House. After all, whatever walks there... walks alone. Links: • I is for Investigate: https://open.spotify.c... • Destination Yesterday website: https://www.destination-yesterday.com/ • Destination Yesterday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourdestinationisyesterday Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479 Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6 Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter • Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/ • Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com Created, Hosted, Edited, Produced and Written by Michael Wilson "The house... it's alive!"

    SSP Cinema Classics 29 - The Haunting (1963) Review

  3. Jul 12

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Our Man Bashir" (DS9) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 3 - "They have an episode where a Runabout shrinks to the size of a pin!" The holosuites are open once again as we continue our ongoing Hit or Miss Star Trek series exploring holodeck and holosuite adventures from across the franchise. Hosted by Captain Michael Wilson, the M of these proceedings, and joined by special guest and self-confessed SPY-fi queen Nita — our very own Miss Moneypenny — we're heading to the swinging sixties for one of Deep Space Nine's most beloved genre excursions: Our Man Bashir. Along the way we explore the episode's many connections to the James Bond franchise and the wider world of spy fiction, examining how Deep Space Nine lovingly recreates the look, sound and feel of classic espionage adventures while simultaneously poking fun at some of their more absurd conventions. From the lavish production design and stylish direction to the Bond-inspired score and larger-than-life villains, we discuss why this remains one of the series' most successful acts of genre homage. But beneath the tuxedos and one-liners lies far more than a simple parody. We take a deep dive into Bashir's fantasy life and what it reveals about the character, exploring the difference between being a competent professional and imagining oneself as an effortless hero. We examine the episode's role in reshaping audience perceptions of Bashir, its importance in his wider character journey, and the intriguing ways it foreshadows revelations still to come. Naturally, no discussion of Our Man Bashir would be complete without talking about Garak. We explore the endlessly entertaining chemistry between the station's doctor and its resident ex-spy, discussing the episode's use of their relationship, the recurring questions of queer subtext that continue to surround the pair, and why their scenes together remain some of the most memorable in all of Deep Space Nine. We also tackle some of the criticisms that have followed the episode over the years, including accusations of sexism and the portrayal of its female characters. Is the episode endorsing outdated spy movie attitudes, or is it presenting them through the lens of Bashir's fantasy and the genre conventions it is deliberately recreating? It's a conversation that sparks plenty of debate. Elsewhere, Hailing Frequencies Open sees us discussing some of our favourite and least favourite holodeck adventures from across Star Trek, the Hit or Miss section debates holo happenings and a rare ship that Mike doesn't like, and Poetry Corner returns with a licence to rhyme. So pour yourself a glass of Dom Pérignon, straighten your bow tie and prepare to enter a world where villains explain their plans in exhausting detail, every attractive stranger is suspicious, and reality has an unfortunate habit of interrupting the fantasy. Links: Follow Nita everywhere - @Sci-FiQueens Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar "Julian Bashir, Secret Agent, will return."

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Our Man Bashir" (DS9) Review & More

  4. Jul 5

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Elementary, Dear Data" (TNG) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 2 - "She's such a bitch!" Hit or Miss: Star Trek continues its holodeck season with one of the most beloved adventures from Star Trek: The Next Generation: "Elementary, Dear Data". Joining Captain Wilson this week are returning guest Sandy and HoM Trek newcomer Lynn as the crew heads to Victorian London for a Sherlock Holmes mystery that ultimately becomes something far more ambitious. Before stepping onto the streets of Baker Street, hailing frequencies are opened once again for Lynn's first-timer interrogation of Trek history and favourites, plus further discussion of favourite and least favourite hologram content, while the Hit or Miss segment revisits a selection of simulations and an extremely recent hero ship. The main review focuses on "Elementary, Dear Data", the classic second-season episode that sees Data and Geordi's Holmes roleplay accidentally create one of Star Trek's most memorable adversaries: Professor James Moriarty. What begins as a simple holodeck mystery quickly evolves into a story about artificial intelligence, self-awareness, free will and the nature of existence itself. The discussion explores the episode's affection for Arthur Conan Doyle's work, the surprisingly modern questions it raises about computer-generated intelligence, the strengths and limitations of the holodeck as a storytelling device, and whether Moriarty should be considered a genuinely living being. Along the way the crew examines the episode's production history, its award-nominated recreation of Victorian London, the philosophical themes at the heart of the story, and the curious ways in which its ideas feel even more relevant in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. There's also plenty of praise for Brent Spiner's performance as Sherlock Holmes and, in particular, Daniel Davis' unforgettable turn as Moriarty, a guest performance that remains one of the most celebrated in Star Trek history. Is "Elementary, Dear Data" simply a fun Sherlock Holmes pastiche, or one of The Next Generation's earliest and most thought-provoking examinations of artificial life? Join us as we investigate one of Star Trek's most enduring holodeck adventures and discover why some mysteries refuse to stay confined to the program. The game is afoot. Links for Lynn: • Adventures in Time and Space: A Doctor Who Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​ • Gene Genie Reviews: A Life on Mars/Ashes to Ashes Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​ • You Can't Handle The Review! - A Film Review Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​ • Email: thistlepodcasts@outlook.com. • Thistle Podcasts Facebook page: https://www.facebook.c...​ • ThistlePodcasts Instagram Page: https://www.instagram....​ • Dr Who Pod Facebook: https://m.facebook.com...​ • Dr Who Pod Instagram: / adventuresintimeandspa... ​ Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson Additional material by Lynn McKinnon Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar "I have a lot of hats."

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Elementary, Dear Data" (TNG) Review & More

  5. Jun 28

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "A Space Adventure Hour" (SNW) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 1 - "It does sound a bit "soap opera" when you put it like that" The holodeck is officially open as Hit or Miss: Star Trek launches a brand-new season exploring one of the franchise's most beloved—and notoriously unreliable—pieces of technology. Joining the Captain Wilson Command Hologram as the show's newest recurring First Officer is actor, writer and performer Justin Avery Smith, fresh from his acclaimed one-man show Revenge of the Soy Boy, and switching focus back from Wars to Trek. Before stepping into this week's main review, the duo opens hailing frequencies to discuss some of their favourite holodeck stories from across the franchise, while the Hit or Miss segment tackles a selection of memorable holographic outings including a socially prophetic TNG episode, a Voyager holoprogram, a new and unique ship, a beloved main cast member of three Trek series, and a very emotional Star Trek: Voyager story. For the main review, attention turns to Strange New Worlds and the third-season episode A Space Adventure Hour, a loving homage to decades of Star Trek holodeck adventures. The discussion covers the episode's recreation of classic Original Series aesthetics, its surprisingly deep collection of references to Star Trek history and production lore, Jonathan Frakes' direction, the introduction of the holodeck years earlier than previously established canon, and Martin Quinn's continuing performance as Scotty. Along the way the crew examines the episode's central mystery, its use of familiar holodeck malfunction tropes, the effectiveness of its B-plot aboard the Enterprise, the various real-world Star Trek figures hidden within the holographic story, and whether the episode succeeds as a celebration of the franchise or simply recycles ideas Trek has explored before. The conversation also dives into the episode's strongest and most controversial moments, from its heartfelt defence of science fiction and Star Trek's cultural importance to its ongoing handling of Spock's romantic storylines, leading to one of the podcast's most passionate debates of the season so far. Was A Space Adventure Hour an affectionate love letter to Star Trek's past, or a hollow recreation of better stories? Join us as we fire up the recreation room and begin a brand-new season of holographic adventures. Computer, begin program. Links Follow Justin at: justinaverysmith.com Facebook and Instagram - Justinaverysmith BlueSky - justinaverysmith@bluesky.social TikTok - @justaverysmith YouTube - @JustAVerySmith Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson Co-host - Justin Avery Smith Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar "They wrote themselves into this corner."

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "A Space Adventure Hour" (SNW) Review & More

  6. Jun 20

    SSP Cinema Classics 28 - King Kong vs Godzilla (1962/63) Review

    Cinema Classics Number 28 — "King Kong could kill us all. You wouldn't care. Publicity's all you want. Publicity." Welcome back film fans and podcast pals. In this Cinema Classics episode we’re bringing the Simian Squad back together—our unintentionally assembled trio born from past reviews of Planet of the Apes and King Kong, where a shared love of great apes (and great films… mostly) turned into a recurring team-up. Host Michael is joined once again by co-host D.K and returning guest Nita as we head to Japan for the original 1962 clash of cinematic titans, King Kong vs. Godzilla—the battle of the century… but is it actually any good? We start with the unusual origins of the project and the fascinating behind-the-scenes details—from early script ideas and returning creative figures, to suitmation choices, practical effects, and some truly bizarre production decisions. There’s also plenty of talk about the tonal shift this represents for the Godzilla series, moving away from its more serious roots into something far more comedic, chaotic, and deliberately over-the-top... it is deliberate, right? As always, we break things down across the key areas, getting into the writing and what the film is really saying beneath the monster mayhem—touching on its satire of media, corporate greed, and the obsession with spectacle. The direction and performances are put under the microscope, along with the contrast between Kong and Godzilla as characters, the handling of the human cast, and the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of the visual effects and action. We also spend some time comparing the Japanese and U.S. versions, and whether those changes help or hinder the overall experience. So whether you’re here for the monster madness, the oddball humour, or just to see two icons collide, join us as we dig into the spectacle, the silliness, and everything in between—because sometimes, you just want to watch two people in monster suits throw rocks at each other. Links: Follow Nita everywhere: @Sci-FiQueens Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479 Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6 Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter • Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/ • Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson. Co-hosted and Additional Material by D.K Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson. "Godzilla has disappeared without a trace. As for King Kong, our International Communications Satellite is following him. And strangely enough, we wish him luck on his long, long journey home."

    SSP Cinema Classics 28 - King Kong vs Godzilla (1962/63) Review

  7. Jun 11

    Silver Screen Podcast - Legend Review (80s Fantasy Season)

    Episode 156 - "Looking upon these creatures, one would not think that they could contain such power. One could rule the universe with it." As our journey through the fantasy films of the 1980s draws ever closer to its final destination, Silver Screen Podcast ventures deep into the enchanted forests, swirling mist and murky shadows of Ridley Scott’s cult fantasy oddity, Legend (1985). Joining Michael Wilson for this dreamlike adventure are regular co-host D.K., returning guest and filmmaker Michael Whaley, and fellow veteran guest Lady Vean as the panel tackles one of the most visually iconic — and divisive — fantasy films of the decade. Starring a young Tom Cruise, Mia Sara and an unforgettable Tim Curry beneath layers of demonic prosthetics as the Lord of Darkness, Legend remains a film that inspires fascination, nostalgia and confusion in almost equal measure. Across the episode the team explore the movie’s extraordinary production design, Rob Bottin’s remarkable creature effects, Ridley Scott’s obsession with atmosphere over narrative clarity, and the many different cuts and endings that have helped shape the film’s long cult afterlife. Is Legend a genuine fairy tale masterpiece powered by mood, myth and visual storytelling? Or is it a beautiful but underwritten fantasy sketch held together by pure aesthetic magic? The discussion also covers the contrasting Jerry Goldsmith and Tangerine Dream soundtracks, surreal dream logic, the film’s strange pacing and symbolism, memorable creature performances, and whether Scott’s commitment to atmosphere ultimately elevates or undermines the storytelling. Perhaps most importantly, Michael finds himself unexpectedly standing almost alone in defence of the film as the rest of the panel prove far less enchanted by this particular fantasy classic. So join us as winter falls, darkness rises, dresses dance of their own accord and Tim Curry attempts to seduce the entire production from atop an ornate throne. Just whatever you do… don’t touch the unicorn. Links: ​ Michael Whaley; • Instagram: @alwaysmichaelwhaley @cmwhaleyphoto • YouTube: @turnaphrasefilms Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479 Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6 Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter • Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/ • Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson Co-hosted and co-written by D.K Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson. "Higher, higher, burning fire, making music like a choir!"

    Silver Screen Podcast - Legend Review (80s Fantasy Season)

  8. Jun 7

    HoM: Doctor Who Podcast - "Army of Ghosts/Doomsday" Review & More

    Series 2, Episode 9 " Five million Cybermen, easy. One Doctor? NOW you're scared." This was an impromptu one, but sometimes those turn out to be the most fun. As our Cybermen season continues, Michael, DK and special guest/editor/story chooser Will Templar take a trip back to one of the biggest, loudest and most emotional finales of the Russell T Davies era as Hit or Miss: Doctor Who tackles the Series 2 crossover event: Army of Ghosts / Doomsday. The Cybermen have crossed over from a parallel world. Torchwood are playing with forces they absolutely should not be. The Daleks are waiting inside the Genesis Ark. And somewhere in the middle of all that chaos, Rose Tyler faces her final journey as the Doctor’s companion. Across the episode we discuss whether this ambitious two-parter actually manages to balance its enormous amount of moving pieces, the now legendary Dalek/Cybermen smack talk, Torchwood’s deeply uncomfortable politics, emotional manipulation versus earned tragedy, Graeme Harper’s direction, Murray Gold’s devastating score, and whether the farewell at Bad Wolf Bay still lands as powerfully twenty years later knowing the wider history of the show. Elsewhere there’s the usual trip Into The Vortex, quick-fire Hit or Miss reviews on stories and characters including Hide, Amy Pond and Lux, behind-the-scenes discussion, favourite moments and lines, production analysis, and a full scoring breakdown as we decide whether this blockbuster finale truly deserves its iconic reputation. So grab your 3D glasses, avoid touching anything brought to you by Daleks, and join us for a true Series 1 and 2 crossover event. Allons-y! VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO WILL TEMPLAR FOR ALL HIS HELP WITH THIS EPISODE. Links: Follow Will on YouTube - @WhoGameshows-o5m Follow Mike and the podcasts all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Hosted and written by Michael Wilson Co-hosted and additional material by D.K Hit or Miss section by Will Templar Producer - Michael K. Wilson Edited by Will Templar Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Will Templar "I... I love you." "Quite right too...And I suppose... if it's my last chance to say it... Rose Tyler......"

    HoM: Doctor Who Podcast - "Army of Ghosts/Doomsday" Review & More
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HIT OR MISS: WHO TREK A Star Trek and a Doctor Who Podcast celebrating every visual part of the franchises, from 1963 to the present day. Honest but respectful reviews, episode discussions, general chat & interviews. SILVER SCREEN Film reviews and analysis from Film Studies BA graduate Michael Wilson, his knowledgeable but enigmatic co-host D.K and a host of fellow cinephile guests. In 60-90 minutes they'll review and analyse new releases, classics, guilty pleasures and films they love, hate, or love to hate.

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