Sparrow's Under Review

Stacey Sparrow

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. 2026 Update

    JAN 6

    2026 Update

    Episode Summary: Welcome to a special New Year’s episode! JR and Stacy are joined by friends to kick off 2026 with a deep dive into the most anticipated movies of the year, pop culture trends, and a few personal favorites. From superhero blockbusters to animated classics and unexpected sequels, the crew covers it all with their signature banter and honest takes. Key Topics Discussed: 2026 Movie Releases: The hosts run through a comprehensive list of upcoming films, including "The Odyssey," "Supergirl," "Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping," "Coyote vs. Acme," "The Legend of Aang," "Toy Story 5," "Street Fighter," "Scream 7," "Evil Dead Burn," "The Devil Wears Prada 2," "Ready or Not 2," "Moana (Live Action)," "Greenland 2: Migration," "The Strangers: Chapter 3," "Terrifier 4," "Dune: Messiah," "The Drama" (starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson), "The Sheep Detectives," "Super Mario Galaxy," "Faulker and Law," "Angry Birds 3," "Watchdogs," "The Cat in the Hat," "Matchbox," "Jumanji 4," "Hoppers," "Violent Night 2," "Verity," "Reminders of Him," "Star Wars: Mandalorian & Baby Yoda," "Goat It," "Mortal Kombat 2," "Trek 5," "Avengers: Doomsday," "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," "Lilo & Stitch (Live Action)," "Billie Eilish Concert Movie," "Scary Movie 6," "Michael Jackson Biopic," "I Can Only Imagine 2," "Hamnet," and "28 Days Later" sequel.Sequels & Nostalgia: The team debates the merits of long-running franchises like "Toy Story," "Scream," and "Evil Dead," and whether sequels can still capture the magic.Animated & Family Films: Highlights include new entries in beloved series and adaptations, such as "The Cat in the Hat" and "Super Mario Galaxy."Video Game Adaptations: Discussion of upcoming movies based on games like "Street Fighter," "Watchdogs," and "Angry Birds."Personal Picks & Hot Takes: Each host shares their most anticipated films and a few that left them skeptical.Pop Culture Moments: Shoutouts to returning stars (Meryl Streep in "Devil Wears Prada 2"), music crossovers (Billie Eilish), and more.Listener Engagement: What 2026 movie are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments or on Facebook at Sparrows Under Review.Follow the show on Threads and Facebook for updates and behind-the-scenes content.Closing: Thanks for tuning in to this extra-long kickoff episode for 2026! Stay subscribed for more movie reviews, pop culture discussions, and fun throughout the year.

    28 min
  2. Twilight to Die My Love: A Deep Dive with Stacey & JR

    12/23/2025

    Twilight to Die My Love: A Deep Dive with Stacey & JR

    Episode Description:In this episode, Stacey and JR Sparrow dive into a candid review and discussion of the film "Die My Love," starring Robert Pattinson. The conversation covers personal stories, the film's release journey, psychological themes, and the impact of postpartum depression as depicted in the movie. The hosts share their unique perspectives, highlight key performances, and reflect on the importance of mental health awareness. Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Robert Pattinson ObsessionStacey shares her long-standing fascination with Robert Pattinson and how it led to watching "Die My Love." 01:15 – Guest Promo: King JermKing Jerm introduces his own podcast and encourages listeners to check it out. 02:45 – The Twilight Story & Movie FandomStacey recounts her Twilight journey, collecting memorabilia, and the nostalgia of early fandom. 04:30 – The Search for the MovieJR and Stacey discuss the challenges of finding "Die My Love" in theaters and the impact of boutique releases. 07:00 – Movie Release & Streaming TrendsJR explains how movies are now released on various platforms and the process of preparing for movie nights. 09:00 – First Impressions & Psychological DramaThe hosts share their initial thoughts on the film and its unique storytelling style. 12:00 – Navigating Confusion & FlashbacksStacey and JR talk about the film’s use of flashbacks and how it can be confusing without context. 14:30 – Watching Experience & AnecdotesThe duo reminisces about where and how they watched the movie, including some humorous delivery mishaps. 16:30 – Book Adaptation & Martin Scorsese’s RoleDiscussion about the film’s origins as a novel and Martin Scorsese’s involvement as a producer. 18:30 – Cast Highlights: Jennifer Lawrence, Robert Pattinson, Sissy SpacekThe hosts highlight standout performances and fun casting connections. 22:00 – Thematic Deep Dive: Postpartum DepressionA thoughtful conversation about the film’s portrayal of postpartum depression and its real-life implications. 25:00 – Character Relationships & AffairsAnalysis of the main character’s relationships, infidelity, and the impact on her mental health. 28:00 – The Ending & Final ThoughtsReflections on the film’s conclusion, its message, and recommendations for viewers. 31:00 – Closing RemarksStacey and JR wrap up the episode, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness. Connect with the Hosts: Stacey SparrowJR SparrowSpecial Guest: King Jerm (Pod and Saved Our Marriage Podcast)

    19 min
  3. Coal Miner's Boxer : "Christy"

    12/16/2025

    Coal Miner's Boxer : "Christy"

    Podcast Episode Description: In this episode, JR and Stacey Sparrow review the movie "Christy," a biopic about professional boxer Christy Martin from West Virginia. They discuss the film’s portrayal of Christy’s life, her impact on women’s sports, and the challenges she faced both in and out of the ring. The conversation covers the movie’s strengths, its handling of sensitive topics, and the hosts’ personal connections to the story. Timestamped Show Notes: 0:00 – Introduction: Movies about West Virginia and the hosts’ connection to the region0:26 – Guest plug: King Jerm from "Pod and Saved Our Marriage"0:38 – Meet the hosts: JR and Stacey introduce themselves0:41 – Movie overview: "Kristy" and its focus on Christy Martin1:05 – Initial impressions: Neither host is a boxing fan, but JR followed Christy’s career2:42 – The film’s portrayal of Christy’s life and the addition of fictional elements4:30 – Discussion of Christy’s mother and family dynamics6:03 – Christy’s look and the stereotypes of the era7:46 – Christy’s college years and the start of her boxing career8:45 – Hiding her identity for success in boxing9:28 – Christy’s career highlights: Don King, Mike Tyson undercard, Sports Illustrated cover10:50 – Later career, struggles with addiction, and the fight with Laila Ali12:18 – Critique of the movie’s time jumps and missing details13:11 – The film’s handling of Christy’s losses and career record14:56 – Final thoughts: The movie’s strengths, acting, and recommendations for viewersLinks & Recommendations: Watch "Christy" for an insightful look at Christy Martin’s lifeRead the Wikipedia pages for both the movie and Christy Martin for more context

    18 min
  4. Planes, Trains and Automobiles

    12/09/2025

    Planes, Trains and Automobiles

    Podcast Episode Description:In this episode, JR Sparrow and Stacey Sparrow review the classic film "Planes, Trains and Automobiles," discussing its cast, plot, and nostalgic value. They share personal insights, compare the film to other holiday movies, and reflect on its emotional impact and legacy. The conversation also touches on potential remakes and the enduring appeal of feel-good comedies. Show Notes & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet JR and Stacey, podcast setup, and episode overview00:14 – Guest intro: King Jerm from "Pot and Saved Our Marriage"00:47 – Movie revealed: "Planes, Trains and Automobiles"01:10 – Cast and shoutouts: Steve Martin, John Candy, and movie suggestion origins01:57 – Why this movie? Holiday/Thanksgiving special, nostalgia, and comedy style02:54 – Movie plot: Steve Martin’s character, shower curtain rings, and the setup03:50 – The cab chase: Kevin Bacon cameo and New York City chaos04:49 – Airport misadventures and meeting John Candy’s character06:03 – Travel detours: From New York to Wichita, Kansas07:10 – Realism and geography: Where should they have landed?08:18 – The journey continues: Planes, trains, buses, rental cars, and a milk truck09:47 – Watching the restored version: 4K, Apple TV, and nostalgia11:05 – Emotional moments: Realizing the character’s loneliness12:08 – Reflections on the film’s message and giving grace during the holidays13:24 – Post-release info: 4K Blu-ray, deleted scenes, and John Candy’s legacy14:45 – Ratings: Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and CinemaScore15:49 – Remake rumors: Will Smith, Kevin Hart, Drew Barrymore, Adam Sandler17:00 – Casting ideas and comedic duos18:10 – Closing: Thank you, movie suggestions, and where to follow the show

    16 min
  5. The Dark Side of Disney :The Black Cauldron

    12/02/2025

    The Dark Side of Disney :The Black Cauldron

    In this episode, Jayo and Stacey dive into the history and controversy behind Disney’s 1985 animated film, "The Black Cauldron." They discuss the film’s troubled production, its impact on Disney’s animation department, and why it stands out as one of the studio’s most infamous movies. The hosts share personal anecdotes, debate the film’s legacy, and invite listeners to share their own thoughts and facts about "The Black Cauldron." Show Notes & Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Jayo and the episode’s theme00:22 – Guest intro: King Germ from "Pod and Saved Our Marriage"00:48 – Topic reveal: The dark side at Disney01:05 – The Black Cauldron: First impressions and memories02:04 – Why this movie? Jayo’s personal connection02:17 – The film’s box office flop and historical context03:24 – Production history: Delays, budget, and technology04:36 – The last film at Disney’s original animation building05:10 – The rise of Disney’s animation renaissance06:00 – The first use of CGI in a Disney film06:45 – What is CGI? Explaining the technology07:30 – The film’s unique sound and PG rating08:20 – Why was the PG rating significant?09:00 – Controversial scenes and test screenings09:50 – The impact of studio cuts on the story10:30 – Storyline discussion: Characters and plot gaps12:00 – The William H. Macy monkey and voice actors13:00 – Comparing characters to TV actors14:00 – Final thoughts: The film’s place in Disney history14:45 – The legacy: Tim Burton, Pixar, and the Disney Renaissance15:00 – Listener challenge: Share your Black Cauldron facts15:30 – Outro and where to find the hosts

    14 min
  6. Roofman

    11/25/2025

    Roofman

    Episode Description:In this episode, JR Sparrow and Stacey Sparrow dive into a wild movie review, discussing the film "Roof Man" starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst. The conversation covers the film's plot twists, true story origins, standout performances, and the hosts' personal takes on the movie's themes and characters. Along the way, they share laughs, debate details, and offer insights into what makes this film memorable. Show Notes & Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & Weekly RecapJR and Stacey reflect on their week and introduce the show. 00:11 – Special Guest: King JermKing Jerm joins to promote his podcast and share thoughts on marriage and podcasting. 00:40 – Movie Introduction: Ruth MannJR introduces the movie, sharing initial impressions and how they discovered it. 01:07 – Movie Trailer & First ImpressionsThe hosts discuss how they came across the trailer and their expectations. 02:04 – True Story OriginsRealization that the movie is based on true events and reactions to that fact. 03:34 – Plot OverviewA breakdown of the movie’s story, focusing on the main character’s journey and challenges. 04:41 – Character Analysis & Turning PointsDiscussion about the protagonist’s background, motivations, and pivotal moments. 05:47 – The Role of SteveThe impact of the character Steve and his advice to the protagonist. 06:53 – Movie Structure & ForeshadowingHow the film’s narrative structure and foreshadowing affect the viewing experience. 07:57 – Final Act & ReflectionsThe hosts reflect on the movie’s ending, lessons learned, and personal takeaways. 09:12 – Box Office & Critical ReceptionBudget, box office numbers, and critical scores from Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and CinemaScore. 12:06 – Closing Thoughts & OutroFinal recommendations, shoutouts, and reminders to follow and subscribe.

    13 min
4.8
out of 5
8 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.