I Hate Critics Movie Review Podcast

Bob Zerull
I Hate Critics Movie Review Podcast

A Film Critics, a Troll and a Film Fan with Perspective discuss movie.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    We Love Companion

    New Releases: Companion Director: Drew Hancock Starring: Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid Release Date: Friday, January 31st, 2025 "Companion" is a 2025 American science fiction thriller directed by Drew Hancock, featuring Sophie Thatcher as Iris and Jack Quaid as Josh. The film follows a weekend getaway to a lakeside estate that spirals into chaos after the sudden death of a billionaire. What begins as a tragedy soon unravels into a tense exploration of control, entitlement, and the blurred lines between humanity and artificial intelligence. Critics have lauded the film's suspenseful narrative and dark humor, with some comparing it to "The Stepford Wives" for its modern take on artificial companions and the ethical dilemmas surrounding advanced technology. You’re Cordially Invited Director: Nicholas Stoller Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Will Ferrell Release Date: January 30th, 2025 (Amazon Prime) This 2025 romantic comedy brings together Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell for a hilariously chaotic clash of weddings. When Jim (Ferrell), a widowed father, and Margot (Witherspoon), a reality TV producer, realize that both their weddings are double-booked at the same venue, chaos ensues. The unexpected mix-up forces the two families to navigate their differences, leading to comedic confrontations and surprising emotional moments. "You're Cordially Invited" blends classic rom-com elements with sharp humor, making for an entertaining and lighthearted watch. Classic Revisit: A.I. Artificial Intelligence Director: Steven Spielberg Release Year: 2001 Originally developed by Stanley Kubrick and later directed by Steven Spielberg, "A.I. Artificial Intelligence" is a sci-fi film that explores deep philosophical questions about identity, love, and the meaning of consciousness. Based on the 1969 short story "Supertoys Last All Summer Long" by Brian Aldiss, the movie tells the story of David (Haley Joel Osment), a child-like android programmed to love. When his human family abandons him, David embarks on a journey to become "real" in hopes of reuniting with his mother. Along the way, he encounters Gigolo Joe (Jude Law), a pleasure-seeking android, and a series of adventures that question what it means to be human. Upon its release, "A.I." received mixed reviews, with some praising its emotional depth and visual effects, while others criticized its tonal shifts between Kubrick’s darker vision and Spielberg’s sentimental style. Over time, the film has been re-evaluated and is now considered one of Spielberg’s most thought-provoking works. Follow & Support Us: Website: I Hate Critics Facebook: Everyone is a Critic Podcast Twitter/X: @criticspod Instagram: @criticspod Patreon: Support Us Merch: TeePublic Store YouTube: Watch Us More From the Critics Crew: Jeff’s Art: Jeff Lassiter Art Sean’s Reviews: Sean at the Movies Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

    53 min
  2. JAN 30

    We Love Steven Soderbergh

    New Releases Presence Steven Soderbergh returns to the supernatural thriller genre with Presence, a film that offers a unique perspective—literally. Shot entirely from the viewpoint of a poltergeist, the film follows a family struggling with grief, personal turmoil, and eerie disturbances in their new home. Starring Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, and Callina Liang, Presence delivers a deeply immersive experience that plays with perception and psychological horror. But does the concept hold up for a full-length feature? We discuss! The Brutalist Adrien Brody leads The Brutalist, a sweeping period drama directed by Brady Corbet. The film follows a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor as he rebuilds his life in post-war America. With Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, and Joe Alwyn rounding out the cast, The Brutalist dives deep into themes of artistic ambition, prejudice, and resilience. How does this slow-burn drama hold up against Corbet’s previous work? We break it down. Classic Rewind Erin Brockovich (2000) In honor of Steven Soderbergh’s Presence, we revisit one of his most acclaimed films, Erin Brockovich. Starring Julia Roberts in an Oscar-winning performance, this legal drama tells the true story of a determined woman who takes on a corporate giant responsible for environmental pollution. Does the film still pack the same punch today? We take a look back at this powerhouse performance and its lasting impact. Follow & Support Us! Website: I Hate Critics Facebook: Everyone is a Critic Podcast Twitter/X: @criticspod Instagram: @criticspod Patreon: Support Us Merch: TeePublic Store YouTube: Watch Us Check out Jeff's art at Jeff Lassiter Art and read Sean's reviews at Sean at the Movies. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

    1h 10m
  3. JAN 23

    We Love David Lynch RIP

    This week on the I Hate Critics Movie Review Podcast, we delve into an eclectic mix of films that tackle themes ranging from psychological transformation to comedic misadventures and the dark underbelly of suburban life. Here’s what we’re covering: Wolf Man (2025) Leigh Whannell’s reimagining of the 1941 classic takes a deeply psychological approach to the werewolf mythos. Christopher Abbott and Julia Garner deliver haunting performances in this story about lycanthropy as a metaphor for degenerative illness and family trauma. With its poignant themes and atmospheric direction, "Wolf Man" is a horror film that lingers long after the credits roll. One of Them Days (2025) Keke Palmer and SZA shine in this hilarious buddy comedy directed by Lawrence Lamont. As Dreux and Alyssa, they embark on a chaotic quest to recover their lost rent money. Produced by Issa Rae’s Hoorae Media, the film is filled with laughs, heart, and sharp social commentary. Critics have praised the chemistry between the leads, making it a standout entry in the buddy-comedy genre. A Different Man (2024) Sebastian Stan stars in this darkly comedic psychological exploration of identity and beauty. Aaron Schimberg’s film has been hailed as a thought-provoking masterpiece, earning accolades such as a spot on the National Board of Review’s top 10 independent films list and a place on Sight & Sound’s Best 50 Movies of 2024. Blue Velvet (1986) David Lynch’s neo-noir psychological thriller remains a seminal work in cinematic history. Kyle MacLachlan, Isabella Rossellini, and Dennis Hopper deliver unforgettable performances in this surreal exploration of crime and the duality of human nature. "Blue Velvet" juxtaposes idyllic suburban life with unsettling darkness, solidifying its place as a controversial yet classic piece of cinema. Follow Us: Website: I Hate Critics Facebook: Everyone is a Critic Podcast Twitter: @criticspod Instagram: @criticspod Patreon: Support Us Merch: TeePublic Store YouTube: Watch Us Check out Jeff's art at Jeff Lassiter Art and read Sean's reviews at Sean at the Movies. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

    1h 1m
  4. JAN 17

    1995 - Tales From the Crypt: Demon Knight

    Demon Knight is a 1995 supernatural horror film that serves as the first feature-length movie based on the popular HBO anthology series Tales from the Crypt. Directed by Ernest R. Dickerson and co-produced by Universal Pictures, the film combines elements of horror, action, and dark humor, remaining true to the series’ macabre tone. Plot Summary The story follows a mysterious drifter named Brayker (played by William Sadler) who possesses a powerful artifact: a key-shaped relic filled with the blood of Christ. This key is the last of seven mystical keys that can unlock cosmic chaos if it falls into the wrong hands. Brayker seeks refuge in a rundown boarding house in a remote desert town, where he is pursued by the sinister Collector (played by Billy Zane), a demonic entity determined to claim the key. As the Collector lays siege to the boarding house, he tempts the occupants with promises of their deepest desires, trying to corrupt their souls. Brayker and the residents must work together to resist his temptations and survive the night. Key Cast • Billy Zane as The Collector: A charismatic and malevolent demon. • William Sadler as Brayker: A mysterious guardian of the key. • Jada Pinkett (now Jada Pinkett Smith) as Jeryline: A tough young woman who becomes a central figure in the fight against evil. • Thomas Haden Church as Roach: A selfish resident who makes a deal with the Collector. • CCH Pounder as Irene: The no-nonsense owner of the boarding house. Themes and Style The film blends horror with a heavy dose of dark humor, a hallmark of Tales from the Crypt. It explores themes of temptation, redemption, and the fight between good and evil. The practical effects, creature design, and gore are highlights, making it a cult favorite among horror fans. Reception Upon release, Demon Knight received mixed reviews. Critics praised Billy Zane’s over-the-top performance and the film’s fun, campy tone but criticized its thin plot and reliance on genre clichés. Over the years, it has gained a cult following for its unique blend of horror and comedy. Legacy Demon Knight was followed by another Tales from the Crypt movie, Bordello of Blood (1996), though the sequel was less well-received. Despite its flaws, Demon Knight is often celebrated as a quintessential 1990s horror flick and a standout entry in the Tales from the Cryptfranchise.

    58 min
  5. JAN 15

    We Love Pamela Anderson

    New Releases: The Last Showgirl “The Last Showgirl” (2024) is a poignant drama directed by Gia Coppola and written by Kate Gersten. Starring Pamela Anderson in a career-defining role as Shelly Gardner, the film explores the struggles of a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl grappling with the impending closure of her long-running revue, Le Razzle Dazzle. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a standout performance as Annette, Shelly’s best friend and confidante, while Dave Bautista and Billie Lourd bring depth as the show’s producer and Shelly’s estranged daughter, respectively. Better Man “Better Man” (2024) is an innovative biographical musical film about British pop star Robbie Williams, directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman). The film’s bold narrative choice to portray Williams as a CGI chimpanzee—motion-captured by Jonno Davies—adds a surreal twist to this exploration of his rise to fame with Take That, solo career, and personal struggles with addiction and depression. A Complete Unknown James Mangold’s A Complete Unknown (2024) chronicles the early career of Bob Dylan, culminating in his controversial electric performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. Timothée Chalamet delivers a mesmerizing performance as Dylan, performing all the music live. The ensemble cast includes Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Elle Fanning as Dylan’s girlfriend, and Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez. This film is a must-watch for Dylan fans and music lovers alike. Classic Revisit: I’m Not There I’m Not There (2007) remains a unique and experimental biopic about Bob Dylan. Directed by Todd Haynes, the film features six different actors—including Cate Blanchett, Christian Bale, and Heath Ledger—portraying various facets of Dylan’s enigmatic persona. Its kaleidoscopic storytelling and creative structure offer an unparalleled cinematic experience. Follow Us: Website: I Hate Critics Facebook: Everyone is a Critic Podcast Twitter: @criticspod Instagram: @criticspod Patreon: Support Us Merch: TeePublic Store YouTube: Watch Us Check out Jeff’s art at Jeff Lassiter Art and read Sean’s reviews at Sean at the Movies. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

    1h 6m
4.4
out of 5
57 Ratings

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A Film Critics, a Troll and a Film Fan with Perspective discuss movie.

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