Media Matters Podcast Network

Michael Wilson

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. 4d ago

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Fair Haven" (VOY) Review & More

    Series 8, Episode 7 - "Their treehouse got destroyed in the hurricane!" Ah, we're back! Welcome aboard the good ship Hit or Miss: Star Trek as we resume our mission to explore the many strange and wonderful ways Star Trek has used the holodeck. This time, we're heading to the picturesque Irish village of Fair Haven as Captain Janeway discovers that even a holographic romance can come with a few complications. Captain Michael Wilson is joined by regular First Officer Justin O'Smith and the lovely Lady Vean O'Clare for a look at the infamous Voyager episode Fair Haven. And while the three of us don't exactly see eye-to-eye on everything this time around, Michael and Vean find themselves engaged in a particularly spirited — but always good-natured — debate, with Justin stepping in as something of a mediator as we try to work out whether there's more to this holodeck romance than meets the eye. Before we dive into the episode itself, we open the hailing frequencies for another round of Hit or Miss and discuss how we spent Star Trek Day before heading into the storm. From the questionable historical authenticity of Fair Haven and its rather peculiar approach to Irish culture, to Harry Kim's latest romantic misadventures and Janeway's increasingly uncomfortable attempts to redesign Michael Sullivan to her liking, there's certainly plenty for us to discuss. We also examine the episode's portrayal of loneliness, the ethics of changing someone to fit your ideal partner, the questionable logic surrounding the holodeck, and whether Janeway ultimately learns the right lesson. We also have a little poetry, some thoughts on the performances and production, a particularly amusing line involving Father Mulligan, and our usual final verdicts. But will Justin and Vean be able to talk Mike down from the edge or will it be a case of "delete the episode"? Links: Follow Justin at justinaverysmith.com Facebook and Instagram - Justinaverysmith BlueSky - justinaverysmith@bluesky.social TikTok - @justaverysmith YouTube - @JustAVerySmith Follow Vean - @LadyVean Facebook - Veantirme Chevalier Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespod 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 "Actually, they probably shouldn't have done this."

    HoM: Star Trek Podcast - "Fair Haven" (VOY) Review & More
  2. Oct 15

    Silver Screen Podcast - Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Review (Sequel Season)

    Episode 166 - "You know, Bob, long distance relationships can be difficult, especially when one of you is dead and the other is ignoring you for thirty years." In loving memory of Catherine O’Hara. Hello and welcome, friends, to an ending… and a beginning! Our mini sequel season comes to a close as we kick off spooky season with a return to the afterlife and the Ghost with the Most in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Michael Wilson is joined by co-host D.K. and returning guest Lady Vean to see whether this long-awaited sequel was worth the wait. We discuss our first impressions before getting into the film’s development, Tim Burton’s return, the decision to bring back so many familiar faces while leaving the Maitlands behind, and whether the story has enough substance of its own or leans a little too heavily on nostalgia. We also debate the performances, including Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder’s returns, Jenna Ortega’s Astrid, the new additions to the cast and, of course, the late, great Catherine O’Hara. We also take a look at Burton’s distinctive visual style, the practical effects and CGI, Danny Elfman’s returning score and some very memorable musical moments. Finally, we pick our favourite characters, moments and lines before giving our verdicts on whether Beetlejuice Beetlejuice manages to recapture the strange charm of the original — and whether it really needed to come back from the dead in the first place! So grab your Handbook for the Recently Deceased and join us for another Silver Screen Podcast review! Links: Find D.K everywhere via http://linktr.ee/dannykingdom 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 Hosted by Michael Wilson Co-hosted by D.K Written by Michael Wilson Additional Material by D.K Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson "I want to make memories with people I love, rather than be haunted by them later."

    Silver Screen Podcast - Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Review (Sequel Season)
  3. Oct 8

    Silver Screen Podcast - Bad Times at the El Royale Review

    Episode 165 - "We might need to work on your sales pitch, son. "The El Royale: no place for a priest"." Sometimes a film just deserves a little more attention. This week on the Silver Screen Podcast, we're checking into the mysterious El Royale for a review of Drew Goddard's stylish, sprawling and criminally underseen 2018 neo-noir thriller, Bad Times at the El Royale. Joining Michael Wilson are three fantastic guests: regular friend of the show Tobi, Will from Who Gameshows and his own YouTube channel, and first-time guest Carla. With a hotel sitting directly on the California–Nevada border, seven strangers with secrets of their own, and a story that constantly shifts perspective, Bad Times at the El Royale is a film packed with mysteries, moral ambiguity and hidden depths. We discuss its intricate plotting, themes of morality, faith, redemption and identity, and the question at the heart of the film: who actually gets to decide what is right and what is wrong? We also take a closer look at Drew Goddard's direction, the film's striking production design and cinematography, its use of colour and framing, the ingenious one-way mirror sequence, and the decision to shoot Cynthia Erivo's musical performances live on set. And speaking of Cynthia Erivo... there's plenty of love for Darlene Sweet and one of the film's most powerful performances. We discuss the brilliant ensemble cast, the 1960s setting, Michael Giacchino's score, the soundtrack, the film's shifting timelines and perspectives, its third-act problems, its box-office disappointment, and why a movie that came so close to greatness may nevertheless be worth revisiting. And, naturally, we reveal where Bad Times at the El Royale lands on the Silver Screen scoreboard. So check in, choose your side of the line, and whatever you do... Don't trust the mirrors. Links: Follow Tobi on BlueSky - @Darksonic.bsky.social Follow Carla on Instagram - @carlamphotog Follow Will on YouTube - youtube.com/@WhoGameshows ​ 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. "Thank y'all for coming to listen to me tonight. It means a lot to me."

    Silver Screen Podcast - Bad Times at the El Royale Review
  4. Sep 27

    HoM: Doctor Who Podcast - "Human Resources" Review & More

    Series 2, Episode 10 - "Well I know Telford isn't the most desirable place to work but it seems a little extreme to brainwash your staff into accepting it." Hello TARDIS travellers and Cyber Fans, and welcome back to Hit or Miss: Doctor Who! After a little time spent exploring the final frontier, we're back in the TARDIS to continue our Cybermen season — and this time, we're stepping away from television altogether! For our first ever Big Finish review, Mike, D.K. and returning guest Stephen from Adventures in Space and Time take a trip into the world of Doctor Who audio to discuss Human Resources, the two-part finale to the first series of the Eighth Doctor Adventures. With Paul McGann's Eighth Doctor and Sheridan Smith's Lucie Miller at its heart, Human Resources takes us from the world of corporate recruitment to an altogether more terrifying job interview, as the Cybermen enter the picture and the Doctor finds himself facing one of his oldest and deadliest enemies. Before getting into the story itself, we take a look at Big Finish, the wider world of Doctor Who audio and some of our favourite Cybermen appearances outside television. We also discuss the uncertain future of Doctor Who on television and consider what we'd like to see when — and if — the TARDIS returns to our screens. Then it's time for Human Resources: its writing, humour and corporate satire, the performances, Nicholas Briggs' direction, the excellent sound design and production, and some genuinely fantastic twists and surprises along the way. Is Part One merely laying the groundwork for an explosive second half? How effectively are the Cybermen used? And can a story set around office life really make us fear the workplace more than we already do? Links for Stephen: • 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 podcasts all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913 Follow D.K everywhere via linktr.ee/dannykingdom Hosted and written by Michael Wilson Co-hosted and additional material by D.K Editor & Producer - Michael K. Wilson Created by Michael K. Wilson Based on a format by Will Templar "I did like Sheridan Smith in "Two Packets of Lager" and stuff like that."

    HoM: Doctor Who Podcast - "Human Resources" Review & More
  5. Sep 24

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

    Episode 164 - "Do you know that hawks and wolves mate for life? The Bishop didn't even leave us that... not even that." The 80s Fantasy Season may have ridden off into the sunset some time ago, but apparently the quest wasn't quite over yet... We're finally bringing you our planned-but-delayed review of Richard Donner's medieval fantasy adventure Ladyhawke! Joining host Michael for this long-awaited return to the world of knights, curses and animal transformations are Sandy, stepping into the breach once again, and Adrienne, the very person responsible for putting Ladyhawke on our original 80s Fantasy Season list! Before we get into our verdict, we're taking a look behind the scenes at how Ladyhawke came together, Richard Donner's long struggle to get the film made, the inspirations behind the story, its unusual casting history, and the rather infamous decision to give a medieval fantasy film a synthesiser-heavy, progressive-rock-inspired soundtrack. We also look at the performances, direction, locations, production design and visual effects, and why Ladyhawke can sometimes look considerably more convincing than it feels narratively. Finally, we reveal our scores and ask the all-important question: does Ladyhawke deserve its cult reputation? Or is there more magic here to be found? 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 The Silver Screen Podcast is also available WHEREVER you get your audio podcasts. Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson. Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson. "I told the truth, Lord. How can I learn any moral lessons when you keep confusing me this way?"

    Silver Screen Podcast - Ladyhawke Review (80s Fantasy Season)
  6. Sep 19

    SSP Cinema Classics 31 - Metropolis Review

    Cinema Classics Number 31 - "The mediator between the head and the hands must be the heart." Few films have shaped the history of cinema quite like Metropolis. Fritz Lang's groundbreaking 1927 masterpiece didn't just help define science fiction—it redefined what film itself could be. Nearly a century later, its towering cityscapes, astonishing visual effects and timeless questions about technology, class and humanity continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. In this extended two-hour edition of Silver Screen: Cinema Classics, Michael Wilson is joined by co-host DK and returning guest Tobi to take a deep dive into one of the most influential films ever made. Together they explore the recently restored version of Metropolis, discussing its remarkable production history, revolutionary effects, unforgettable imagery, political and religious symbolism, themes of industrialisation, and what it truly means to be human. Along the way they also examine the film's enduring legacy, There's an extra twist this month too. Alongside the restored original, DK also reviews Giorgio Moroder's famous 1984 reconstruction, complete with its rock soundtrack and colour tinting. Throughout the episode the team compares both versions, debating whether Moroder's bold reinterpretation offers an accessible gateway into Lang's masterpiece or whether nothing can truly replace the original. As always, the discussion also ventures Behind the Scenes, From the Schüfftan Process and the iconic Maschinenmensch to the rediscovery of the long-lost footage that helped restore the film to something close to Lang's original vision, there's no shortage of cinematic history to uncover. Finally, the team reveal their favourite performances, moments and characters before awarding their scores and answering the biggest question of all... Is Metropolis simply one of the most important films ever made... or is it still one of the greatest? 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 Follow D.K everywhere via https://linktr.ee/dannykingdom Follow Tobi at @darksonic.bsky.social 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. "Your magnificent city, Father - and you the brain of this city - and all of us in the city's light...And where are the people, Father, whose hands built your city?"

    SSP Cinema Classics 31 - Metropolis Review
  7. Sep 10

    Silver Screen Podcast - Batman Forever Review (Sequel Season)

    Episode 162 - "I see without seeing. To me, darkness is as clear as daylight. What am I?" Riddle me this, podcast pals... Silver Screen Podcast is back for another deep dive into a cinematic sequel — or, in this case, threequel — as the Bat-Signal shines over Gotham and we revisit Joel Schumacher's Batman Forever. Michael is back in the host's chair, joined by regular co-host D.K., returning guest Lady Vean, and first-timer Sean Connell for a packed trip to Gotham City. Batman Forever represented a very different direction for the franchise. But beneath the neon, spectacle and increasingly colourful approach, is there a more thoughtful Batman story hiding? We delve into the film's exploration of Bruce Wayne's psychology, his connection with Dick Grayson, and Batman's relationship with fear. We also discuss the film's villains, its bizarre romance subplot, its often-questionable humour, and the tonal shifts that make Batman Forever such a fascinating — and divisive — chapter in the franchise. We'll also take a closer look at Joel Schumacher's direction as well as the performances, visual effects, action sequences and soundtrack. And then there's the Schumacher Cut. We discuss the legendary alternate version of Batman Forever, the additional footage that reportedly exists, what we know about the darker original cut, and whether we might ever actually get to see it. So dust off your Robin costume, grab a suspiciously large penny and prepare to take a trip back to 1995 as Silver Screen asks whether Batman Forever deserves the reputation it has acquired over the years — or whether nostalgia has painted our memories a little brighter. Even when it comes to Bat-nipples and wall-scaling cars. Links: Silver Screen Podcast 'Batman' review: https://youtu.be/lHV2Yk0dthU Silver Screen Podcast 'Batman Returns' review: https://youtu.be/zvonXR2TgFM Follow Sean on Instagram: @smcbeadfactory @sconnell82 Find D.K everywhere via http://linktr.ee/dannykingdom 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 Hosted by Michael Wilson Co-hosted by D.K Written by Michael Wilson Additional Material by D.K Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson “I'm both Bruce Wayne and Batman. Not because I have to be... now because I choose to be.”

    Silver Screen Podcast - Batman Forever Review (Sequel Season)
  8. Sep 3

    Silver Screen Podcast - John Wick Chapter 2 Review (Sequel Season)

    Episode 161 - "So I guess you have a choice. You want a war? Or do you wanna just give me a gun?" The Silver Screen Podcast’s sequel season continues as we return to the world of professional assassins, blood markers and very strict hotel rules for a look at 2017’s John Wick: Chapter 2! Mike is joined by Michael Whaley and Lynn as we discuss whether Chad Stahelski’s sequel improves upon its predecessor, expanding the mythology and introducing us to the mysterious High Table, the Continental’s wider world and the consequences of John Wick being dragged back into the life he left behind. We’ll be discussing Keanu Reeves’ continued evolution into the role, the film’s new characters, its spectacular action sequences and increasingly elaborate world-building, as well as the stunning visual style and that unforgettable hall-of-mirrors finale. But does John Wick: Chapter 2 successfully build upon the foundations of the original, or does the relentless violence and occasionally sluggish pacing hold it back? Join us as we check back into the Continental and discover whether this sequel has what it takes to stay on the right side of the High Table! CW: Suicide - 44:53 to 47:21 Links: Silver Screen Podcast 'John Wick' review: https://youtu.be/qSAym-y-6xo Michael Whaley; • Instagram: @alwaysmichaelwhaley @cmwhaleyphoto • YouTube: @turnaphrasefilms Lynn: Adventures in Time and Space: A Doctor Who Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​ 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... ​ 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 Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson. Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson. "You leave me no choice but to declare you excommunicado."

    Silver Screen Podcast - John Wick Chapter 2 Review (Sequel Season)

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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