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. 1d ago

    SSP Cinema Classics 30 - The Big Boss (1971) Review

    Cinema Classics Number 30 - "You know I broke a promise. Never to fight again." Bruce Lee changed action cinema forever, but does his first starring role still pack the same punch over fifty years later? This month on The Silver Screen Podcast: Cinema Classics, Michael is joined by resident music supervisor and first-time Cinema Classics panellist Al Trotter to take a deep dive into the 1971 martial arts landmark The Big Boss. Together they discuss the film that launched Bruce Lee to international superstardom, exploring its fascinating production history, troubled shoot in Thailand, brutal fight choreography, lasting influence on action cinema, and the complicated censorship that has surrounded the film for decades. Along the way they ask whether the simple revenge story still holds up today, how Bruce's incredible screen presence elevates every scene, and whether this classic deserves its legendary reputation. Plus, behind-the-scenes trivia, favourite moments, memorable lines, and, of course, the all-important final scores. Join us as we revisit the film that started one of cinema's greatest legacies. Links: 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. Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson. "Beat it or I'll kill you right now."

    SSP Cinema Classics 30 - The Big Boss (1971) Review

  2. Aug 2

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Kobayashi" (PRO) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 6 - "You can't scare me, I'm defending the Muppet episode of Strange New Worlds." The Kobayashi Maru. The ultimate no-win scenario. But what if the real lesson isn't about winning at all? Captain Michael Wilson is joined by First Officers D.K. and Justin Avery Smith as the crew continue their journey through Star Trek's greatest holodeck adventures with one of the most beloved episodes of Star Trek: Prodigy. This time we're stepping onto the USS Enterprise-D bridge alongside some of the most iconic figures in Star Trek history as Dal attempts to conquer the legendary Kobayashi Maru test. Along the way we discuss Aaron Waltke's love letter to the franchise, the ingenious use of archive performances from Leonard Nimoy, James Doohan, René Auberjonois and Nichelle Nichols' fellow castmates, gorgeous animation, emotional character development, AC/DC, Murf eating grenades, and why this episode perfectly balances fan service with genuine storytelling. Before that, though, there's the usual madness as Hailing Frequencies Open returns, the crew tackle another round of Hit or Miss, and Poetry Corner somehow survives another week. Is Kobayashi an unbeatable triumph, or does this famous simulation finally meet its match? Join us as we find out. Live Long and Prosper... and remember: sometimes the greatest victory is learning why you couldn't win in the first place. Links: Follow D.K everywhere via https://linktr.ee/DannyKingdom 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-hosts - D.K & Justin Avery Smith Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar "We pick on the Oberth-class so much on this show." In memory of those who inspire us to go boldly.

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Kobayashi" (PRO) Review & More

  3. Jul 26

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Crisis Point" & "Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus" (LD) Reviews & More

    Series 8, Episode 5 - "TNG is objectively the greatest TV show that has ever been created." Holodecks have always been one of Star Trek's greatest storytelling playgrounds, but what happens when Lower Decks decides to turn one into a full-blown movie franchise? This week on Hit or Miss Star Trek, Michael Wilson is joined once again by newly recurring First Officer Justin Avery Smith, alongside special first-time guest Jason Roy Gaston, to review both Crisis Point and Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus in one feature-length discussion. Together we explore two of the series' most ambitious episodes, packed with affectionate tributes to decades of Star Trek films, spectacular cinematic parody, surprisingly heartfelt character development, and enough meta humour to keep even the most eagle-eyed fans busy. Along the way we discuss Mariner and Boimler's emotional journeys, Lower Decks' unique approach to storytelling, George Takei's welcome return as Sulu, and whether these holodeck adventures succeed as both comedy and genuine Star Trek. As always, there's Behind the Scenes trivia, Poetry Corner, favourite moments and quotes, plenty of laughs, and our final Hit or Miss scores to determine whether these cinematic love letters truly deserve their place among the franchise's finest holodeck stories. All this plus a full interview with Jason about his Trek history and favourites. Naturally there is also a (slightly truncated) Hit or Miss section taking in two different instances of holographic relocation and two divisive starships. So get the popcorn ready, watch out for flying credits and avoid any bitey horseys as you dive into this holographic review double-bill. Links: Follow Jason everywhere via https://linktr.ee/jasonroygaston 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 "What is Star Trek if not the gayest science-fiction?"

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Crisis Point" & "Crisis Point 2: Paradoxus" (LD) Reviews & More

  4. Jul 19

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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About

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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