Once Upon a Franchise

Once Upon a Franchise
  • 5.0 (1)
  • TV & Film
  • Updated Weekly

A weekly podcast where film critics Manuel São Bento and Ren Vieira revisit every installment of major movie franchises. From iconic blockbusters to hidden gems, each episode dives deep into one title, blending critical insight with passionate, friendly banter. Join us on a cinematic journey through the franchises that shaped pop culture - one film (or show) at a time.

  1. May 15

    MCU Episode 18 - Black Panther (2018)

    Manel and Ren journey to the hidden kingdom of Wakanda to discuss the cultural phenomenon that is Black Panther (2018). They break down why Ryan Coogler’s film remains a pivotal cornerstone of the MCU, balancing grand superhero spectacle with an intimate political drama about sovereignty and responsibility. From the breathtaking world-building and the sonic landscape of Ludwig Göransson’s score to the tragic, moral complexity of Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger, they analyze how T’Challa’s journey from isolationist king to global leader resonates more than ever.

    42 min

  2. May 1

    MCU Episode 17 - Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

    In this episode, Manel and Ren dive into the neon-soaked, synth-driven "personality transplant" that is Thor: Ragnarok. They break down how director Taika Waititi stripped away the God of Thunder’s Shakespearean stiffness to reveal Chris Hemsworth’s comedic brilliance, while introducing the MCU's most captivating new addition, Tessa Thompson’s Valkyrie. From the "buddy cop" energy of Hulk and Thor to the chilling, colonialist subtext of Cate Blanchett’s Hela, they analyze whether the film’s high-octane humor masks the tragedy of Asgard’s destruction or successfully evolves the franchise.

    1h 2m

  3. Apr 17

    MCU Episode 16 - Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

    Pack your bags for Queens because this week Manel and Ren are suiting up for the wall-crawler’s definitive solo debut in the MCU: Spider-Man: Homecoming! They're diving deep into why Tom Holland’s awkward, hopeful energy makes him the ultimate Peter Parker, the brilliant "blue-collar" villainy of Michael Keaton’s Vulture, and the complex — often debated — mentorship dynamic with Tony Stark.

    1h 2m

  4. Apr 3

    MCU Episode 15 - Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

    Join Manel and Ren as they explore the heart and the "hiccups" of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. From the sophisticated thematic layering of the Gamora-Nebula fallout to the divisive MCU’s "humor problem", they’re breaking down why this messy, gorgeous sequel remains the emotional anchor of the cosmic franchise. "Daddy" issues, the brilliance of a narcissistic planet, Yondu’s tear-inducing funeral... even Pac-Man gets a shoutout.

    1 hr

  5. Mar 27

    MCU Episode 14 - Doctor Strange (2016)

    Join Manel and Ren as they open their minds to discuss Doctor Strange (2016), the MCU’s mind-bending foray into the mystical arts. They dive into Stephen Strange’s journey from arrogance to enlightenment, Benedict Cumberbatch’s seamless transformation into the Sorcerer Supreme, and the film's philosophical exploration of time and mortality. Jump in as they explore the stunning visual effects, the unique "bargain" finale, and how this origin story successfully pushes the boundaries of the franchise into a brand-new metaphysical dimension.

    50 min

  6. Mar 20

    MCU Episode 13 - Captain America: Civil War (2016)

    Join Manel and Ren as they pick their sides to discuss Captain America: Civil War (2016), the high-stakes political thriller that fractured the Avengers. They explore the dense themes of accountability and vengeance, the masterclass introductions of Black Panther and Spider-Man, and why Zemo remains one of the franchise’s most effective villain. Jump in as they defend the film's grounded visual aesthetic, celebrate Wanda’s pivotal growth, and explain why this emotional tragedy earns top spots in their respective rankings.

    1h 23m

  7. Jan 29

    MCU Episode 12 - Ant-Man (2015)

    Join Manel and Ren as they shrink down to discuss Ant-Man (2015), the MCU’s refreshing palette cleanser. They dive into its unique heist-movie structure, the passing of the mantle from Hank Pym to Scott Lang, and Paul Rudd’s undeniable charm. Jump in as they explore why this smaller-scale story works so well, its creative visual effects, and how it proves that sometimes, less really is more.

    1h 9m

  8. Jan 20

    MCU Episode 11 - Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

    Join Manel and Ren as they tackle Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), debating whether it’s a misunderstood deconstruction of heroism or a victim of its own ambition. They dive into Tony Stark’s god complex, the introduction of the Maximoffs and Vision, and the heavy themes of legacy vs. obsolescence. Jump in to discuss if this "darker" chapter is a top-tier sequel or just a bridge to the future of the MCU.

    1h 6m
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About

A weekly podcast where film critics Manuel São Bento and Ren Vieira revisit every installment of major movie franchises. From iconic blockbusters to hidden gems, each episode dives deep into one title, blending critical insight with passionate, friendly banter. Join us on a cinematic journey through the franchises that shaped pop culture - one film (or show) at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Once Upon a Franchise
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Once Upon a Franchise
  • Show Website
    Once Upon a Franchise