Sparrow's Under Review

Stacey Sparrow
  • 4.8 (9)
  • FILM REVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Sparrows UnderReview, where hosts Stacey and JR dive deep into the world of movies, video games, and television, offering candid and honest reviews of everything under the sun. Stacey's unfiltered opinions paired with JR's logical insights create a perfect blend of thought, opinion, and common sense. Whether you're looking for the latest media critiques or timeless favorites revisited, Sparrows UnderReview is your go-to podcast for balanced and engaging reviews. Join us for thoughtful discussions and fresh perspectives on all things media, food , and books !!! Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Rotten Tomatoes Said 83%, the Box Office Said Nah : The Good Luck , Have Fun, Don't die Movie Review

    19H AGO

    Rotten Tomatoes Said 83%, the Box Office Said Nah : The Good Luck , Have Fun, Don't die Movie Review

    Overview: Stacey and JR review the sci-fi comedy Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, comparing it to their previous review of Wuthering Heights. They break down the film's budget, box office performance, critical reception, and share their spoiler-free takes. Key Topics: Box Office vs. Budget: $20M budget, only ~$8–9M worldwide box officeCritical Reception: 83% on Rotten Tomatoes, 67/100 on Metacritic, B from CinemaScoreComparison to Wuthering Heights: Despite a much smaller box office, Good Luck scored significantly higher with critics than Wuthering Heights (57% RT, $221M box office on an $80M budget)Genre: Sci-fi comedy with elements of horror, action, and drama — compared to Scary Movie vibes and the indie feel of Everything Everywhere All at OnceSpoiler-Free Impressions: JR calls it a future cult classic; Stacey says it kept her engaged and giggling. Both recommend it.Viewing Tips: Pay close attention to the opening 5 minutes and all diner scenes. "Don't worry about a damn piece of pie."Double Feature Weekend: Watched back-to-back with Wuthering Heights on Friday the 13th weekend — both left them wanting more.Call to Action: Watch both Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die and Wuthering Heights, then comment which one you preferred.

    12 min
  2. Hoppers 2026 Pixar Review: Plot Twists, Box Office Numbers & Bold Opinions | Sparrows Under Review

    MAY 5

    Hoppers 2026 Pixar Review: Plot Twists, Box Office Numbers & Bold Opinions | Sparrows Under Review

    Hosts: JR Sparrow & Stacey Sparrow Guest Intro: King Jerm (Poddin' Saved Our Marriage) This Week's Review: Hoppers (Disney/Pixar, 2026) This week JR Sparrow flies solo to review Pixar's latest animated feature, Hoppers — currently the 4th highest-grossing film of 2026with a $375 million box office haul on a $150 million budget. What's it about? Hoppers follows Mabel Tanaka, a young girl raised near a forest by her grandmother, who becomes deeply connected to nature and wildlife. When Mabel is transformed into a beaver, she finds herself navigating a world of animal kingdoms — insects, amphibians, fish, reptiles, and birds — each with their own rulers, agendas, and comedy. The film tackles themes of government, environmental activism, neglect, and loss, wrapped in stunning Pixar animation. Director: Daniel Chung End Credits Song: Save the Day by Scissor Critical Reception: Rotten Tomatoes: 94%Metacritic: 73/100 (based on 46 critics)CinemaScore: ARogerEbert.com (Neil Minow): ★★★★ — "Pixar at its very best"JR's Take: A well-crafted, thoughtful film that demands your full attention from the start. The plot twists are earned, the ensemble voice cast is stellar, and the writing subverts villain expectations in a refreshing way. Best suited for teens and adults, though younger kids will enjoy the humor and colorful animal characters. Features a standout performance from Meryl Streep. 2026 Box Office Rankings (as of April 28): Super Mario GalaxyPegasus 3Project Hail MaryHoppersWeathering HeightsFind us on Threads — drop your takes, requests, and what movies you want covered next! Sparrows Under Review — every take is examined, nothing escapes the spotlight. Follow Poddin' Saved Our Marriage with King Jerm — new episodes every Friday

    13 min
  3. The CoHo Movie Universe: A Deep Dive into Colleen Hoover's Film Adaptations

    APR 28

    The CoHo Movie Universe: A Deep Dive into Colleen Hoover's Film Adaptations

    JR Sparrow flies solo this week to break down the growing cinematic universe built around bestselling author Colleen Hoover — aka the "CoHo Movie Universe." With over 26 books and a built-in audience supercharged by BookTok, Hoover's work has attracted major Hollywood studios including Sony, Paramount, Universal, and Amazon MGM. In this episode: How TikTok's BookTok community turned Colleen Hoover into a publishing phenomenon — and made her irresistible to HollywoodA rundown of the four CoHo films: It Ends With Us, Regretting You, Reminders of Him, and the upcoming VerityBox office breakdown: It Ends With Us ($35M), Regretting You ($90M), Reminders of Him ($88M on a $25M budget)Why critics gave Reminders of Him mixed reviews — and why JR disagreesJR's personal ranking of the CoHo films and why Reminders of Him might be the best entry point for new viewersWhat Colleen Hoover's hands-on involvement means for the franchise's futureJR's Take: Reminders of Him tells a grounded, realistic story about redemption, community, and second chances — themes that resonate far beyond the romance genre. Don't let the critic scores fool you. Subscribe & Listen: 🎙️ Search Sparrows UnderReview Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. New episodes dropping regularly — don't miss Stacey's return next week.

    12 min
  4. Send Help – No Seriously, We Need It

    APR 21

    Send Help – No Seriously, We Need It

    Stacey and Jr. Sparrow sit down with King Jerm to review a 2026 thriller directed by Sam Raimi, starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien. Jr. calls it his top film of the first quarter of 2026 — a suspenseful, twist-filled ride that kept him on the edge of his seat. Stacey came in for Rachel McAdams and left with a lot to say about the film's morally complex lead character. What We Cover: First impressions and why this film was on Jr.'s radar earlySam Raimi's filmography and how this film compares to his usual style (think Evil Dead, Drag Me to Hell, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness)Stacey's "you go, girl" reaction to the main character's big revealThe moment Stacey says the character went too far — and what she would have done differentlyThe subtle clues you might miss on a first watch (and why Jr. wants to rewatch it)Comparisons to M. Night Shyamalan's Old and other suspense films from recent yearsBy the Numbers: Budget: $40 millionBox Office: $90.4 millionRotten Tomatoes: 93% positiveMetacritic: 75/100CinemaScore: B+The Verdict: A well-earned B+ in the hosts' book — with Jr. ready to rewatch for hidden clues and Stacey impressed by the lead's calculated, survivor-mentality performance.

    10 min
  5. The Strangers: Chapter 3 – Terrifying or Tired? Our Honest Take

    APR 14

    The Strangers: Chapter 3 – Terrifying or Tired? Our Honest Take

    Episode Summary In this episode of Sparrows Under Review, Jr and Stacey complete their trilogy review with The Strangers: Chapter 3. After loving Chapter 1, being disappointed by Chapter 2, they discuss whether the final installment delivers a satisfying conclusion—or leaves them wanting more. 📽️ The Trilogy Experience All three films were shot in 2022 as one production, then released over multiple yearsChapter 1: 2024 release, grossed $48MChapter 2: 2025 release, grossed $22MChapter 3: Released January 15th, grossed only $9.2MProduction budget: ~$8.5M for all three films combined🎬 Chapter 3 Breakdown Maya is the sole survivor from previous chaptersOne of the Strangers has been killedThe sheriff's backstory is revealedEnding is divisive: provides closure on the history but execution was disappointing⭐ Final Verdict Jr's Rating: 100% dumpster juice as a standalone filmRecommendation: Watch all three movies as a trilogy in one sitting (4.5-5 hours total)Certified as a "Sparrow Under Review trilogy" - enshrined in the show's legacyNot recommended as a standalone watch💡 Viewer Challenge What would you change about the ending to make it better? Let us know in the comments! Key Discussion Points 📽️ The Trilogy Experience All three films were shot in 2022 as one production, then released over multiple yearsChapter 1: 2024 release, grossed $48MChapter 2: 2025 release, grossed $22MChapter 3: Released January 15th, grossed only $9.2MProduction budget: ~$8.5M for all three films combined🎬 Chapter 3 Breakdown Maya is the sole survivor from previous chaptersOne of the Strangers has been killedThe sheriff's backstory is revealedEnding is divisive: provides closure on the history but execution was disappointing⭐ Final Verdict Jr's Rating: 100% dumpster juice as a standalone filmRecommendation: Watch all three movies as a trilogy in one sitting (4.5-5 hours total)Certified as a "Sparrow Under Review trilogy" - enshrined in the show's legacyNot recommended as a standalone watch💡 Viewer Challenge What would you change about the ending to make it better? Let us know in the comments!

    13 min
  6. Super Mario Galaxy Movie: Worth the Hype or Not?

    APR 7

    Super Mario Galaxy Movie: Worth the Hype or Not?

    JR Sparrow, Stacey, and King Jerm sit down fresh off opening weekend to give their take on The Super Mario Bros. Movie: Galaxy — and they've got a lot to say. What's Covered: The hosts' history with the Super Mario franchise — owning every game but skipping a fewTheir opening weekend theater experience at Regal Theater in Nitro, WV (sold-out Yoshi buckets, uncomfortable seats, and a spot on the screen)A spoiler-light breakdown of the film's plot, pacing (98 min), and how it sets up a larger Nintendo cinematic universeEaster eggs and callbacks to Super Mario 2 — including the villain Wart (voiced by Luis Guzmán)The surprise appearance of Star Fox / Fox McCloud (voiced by Glenn Powell Jr.)Donald Glover as a surprisingly ruthless YoshiReturning cast: Chris Pratt (Mario), Jack Black (Bowser), Keegan-Michael Key (Toad), Brie Larson (Princess Rosalina)The mid/post-credits scene — don't leave early!Critical reception breakdown: Rotten Tomatoes 41%, Metacritic 36/100 vs. CinemaScore A- and PostTrak 79%Box office: $110M budget vs. $122.1M opening weekend haul (and counting)Should you see Movie 1 first? JR and Stacey debate itThe Verdict: A fun, fast, family-friendly film that serves as a bridge to a larger Nintendo universe. Critics may be harsh, but audiences are showing up — and the hosts recommend you do too. Stay until the END of the credits.

    16 min
  7. Unhinged – Why This Movie Lives Rent-Free in Our Heads

    MAR 31

    Unhinged – Why This Movie Lives Rent-Free in Our Heads

    Episode: The Movie That Defined Our Pandemic (Unhinged Review) Hosts: JR Sparrow & Stacey Sparrow, with intro by King Jerm Duration: ~13 minutes JR and Stacey dive into their all-time favorite pandemic movie: Russell Crowe's "Unhinged." This road rage thriller became the couple's go-to film during COVID, and they explore why this underrated movie resonates so deeply with anyone who's ever experienced frustration on the road. The conversation spirals into hilarious and relatable rants about driving pet peeves, West Virginia road rules, and their own "unhinged" moments behind the wheel. Why they love it: Raw emotion, compelling story, Russell Crowe's intense performancePandemic comfort film: Watched it 2-3 times together, plus multiple viewings with Stacey's dadWhere to watch: Currently streaming on Tubi (free)The premise: Road rage thriller that taps into universal driving frustrationsLeft lane etiquette: Should only be used for passing or going 5-10+ mph over the speed limitThe honking debate: When is it appropriate to honk at a green light?Semi-truck frustrations: Especially on hills in mountainous areasWest Virginia driving culture: Local knowledge of roads, potholes, and coal truck safetyJR admits he makes his own driving rules (just like Russell Crowe's character)Stacey relates to both the angry driver AND the person being honked atMultiple road trip horror stories across the US (Florida, Savannah, Indianapolis)The couple's upcoming Buc-ee's trips in Ohio"Any person that's ever gotten in a vehicle and someone has disobeyed one of your driving laws... you have experienced Unhinged." - JR "Drive in the right lane if you cannot afford a speeding ticket." - Stacey "If you're in Southern West Virginia... you give leeway to the coal truck or you will die." - JR "The speed limit in West Virginia is 70 everywhere. Or 90." - JR & Stacey Rating: Favorite couple's movie of all time Rewatchability: Infinite (it could be a TNT movie on repeat) Who should watch: Anyone who's ever been frustrated by another driver Follow them: Find Sparrows Under Review on FacebookShare your stories: What's the craziest thing you've experienced or seen on the road?New episodes: Every Friday on any DSP (Digital Streaming Platform)Strong language throughoutRoad rage themesPassionate discussions about drivingProduced by: Sparrows Under Review "Every take is examined and nothing escapes the spotlight" Episode SummaryKey Topics DiscussedThe Movie: Unhinged (2020)Driving Pet Peeves & Road RulesRelatable MomentsNotable QuotesHosts' VerdictCall to ActionContent Warnings

    13 min
  8. Scream 7

    MAR 24

    Scream 7

    Hosts: JR Sparrow & Stacey Sparrow | Intro by: King Germ JR and Stacey catch a surprise release of Scream 7 while JR recovers at the Cleveland Clinic. They break down the franchise's goriest installment yet — from the brutal Sabrina Carpenter lookalike opening to Courteney Cox and Matthew Lillard's returns — and debate whether the low critic scores are fair for a movie that pulled in $179M at the box office. 0:00 — Intro0:28 — Welcome & Background1:14 — First Impressions & Gore Factor4:52 — Stacey's Take6:07 — Box Office & Budget7:39 — Critic Scores & Ratings8:36 — The Scream Franchise Legacy10:01 — Final Verdict & Recommendations10:29 — Outro

    11 min
See All (169)

4.8
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to Sparrows UnderReview, where hosts Stacey and JR dive deep into the world of movies, video games, and television, offering candid and honest reviews of everything under the sun. Stacey's unfiltered opinions paired with JR's logical insights create a perfect blend of thought, opinion, and common sense. Whether you're looking for the latest media critiques or timeless favorites revisited, Sparrows UnderReview is your go-to podcast for balanced and engaging reviews. Join us for thoughtful discussions and fresh perspectives on all things media, food , and books !!! Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Stacey Sparrow
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    169
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Stacey Sparrow
  • Show Website
    Sparrow's Under Review

You Might Also Like