Smokey and the Snobby: Funny Movie Reviews & Hot Takes

Raffi and Aren Mahserdjian

Welcome to Smokey and the Snobby, the movie podcast where one of us loves high-octane car chases and the other prefers Cannes Film Festival winners... guess who's who? Each week, this father-son duo fires up the engines and reviews films from both ends of the cinematic highway. Whether it's a fast-paced blockbuster or a slow-burning art house drama, we score each ride on our patented but very different 1-to-10 Smokey scale based on runtime, plot detours, and how lost we got in the weeds. Expect laughs, popcorn debates, and a whole lot of loving disagreement.

  1. EPISODE 37: BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA

    2d ago

    EPISODE 37: BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA

    Get ready to venture into the wild world of martial arts, ancient sorcery, and over-the-top action as Smokey and the Snobby take on the cult classic Big Trouble in Little China. Directed by John Carpenter and starring Kurt Russell as the unforgettable Jack Burton, this 1986 action-comedy has become one of the most beloved cult films of all time. In this episode, we break down everything that makes Big Trouble in Little China a fan favorite—from its unique blend of kung fu action, fantasy adventure, comedy, and 1980s practical effects to its unforgettable characters, quotable dialogue, and influence on pop culture. Was Jack Burton really the hero, or was he just along for the ride? How did the film go from box office disappointment to cult classic status? And does it still hold up nearly 40 years later? Join us as Smokey and Snobby debate the movie's best scenes, memorable villains like Lo Pan, epic martial arts battles, practical special effects, and the film's lasting impact on action movies, fantasy films, and cult cinema. Whether you're a lifelong fan or watching Big Trouble in Little China for the first time, this episode is packed with movie trivia, behind-the-scenes facts, nostalgic 80s movie discussion, and plenty of laughs. If you love movie reviews, film analysis, cult classics, action movies, fantasy adventures, 1980s cinema, John Carpenter films, Kurt Russell movies, and deep dives into Hollywood's most underrated gems, this episode is for you.

    52 min
  2. EPISODE 36: RUNNING SCARED(1986)

    Jun 3

    EPISODE 36: RUNNING SCARED(1986)

    Looking for the ultimate 80s buddy cop movie that isn’t Lethal Weapon? In this episode, we’re breaking down the 1986 action-comedy classic Running Scared, starring Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal as two hilarious, fast-talking Chicago detectives planning their retirement to sunny Florida. We dive deep into why the undeniable, improvised chemistry between Crystal and Hines sets a benchmark for the buddy cop genre. Plus, we talk about Jimmy Smits’ breakout performance as the villainous drug lord Julio Gonzales, the film's iconic car chase on the Chicago El train tracks, and that synth-heavy, Grammy-winning soundtrack featuring Michael McDonald's "Sweet Freedom." Whether you’re a die-hard fan of 80s cinema, a lover of classic action-comedies, or discovering this underrated gem for the first time, this episode is your ultimate retrospective guide. Hit play to find out if Running Scared (1986) still holds up today, how it influenced modern action films, and why it deserves a spot on your movie watch list!

    59 min
  3. EPISODE 35: MISERY

    May 27

    EPISODE 35: MISERY

    Is Annie Wilkes the ultimate toxic fan, or just a deeply misunderstood critic? This week on Smokey and the Snobby, we are breaking down Rob Reiner’s iconic 1990 psychological horror thriller, Misery. Based on the legendary Stephen King novel, this masterclass in isolation and tension features an Oscar-winning performance by Kathy Bates alongside James Caan as the tormented author Paul Sheldon. Whether you are a die-hard fan of classic 90s thriller movies or love a good suspense film breakdown, your favorite movie podcasters are diving deep into the infamous hobbling scene, the toxic dynamics of fandom, and why this adaptation still holds up as one of the best horror movies of all time. Does Misery stand the test of time as a top-tier Stephen King movie adaptation, or does its claustrophobic tension drag? Grab your favorite drink, lock your doors, and join the Smokey and the Snobby discuss their fan theories and plot holes. follow us on Instagram @SmokeyandthesSnobby

    1h 15m
  4. EPISODE 34: ENCINO MAN

    May 20

    EPISODE 34: ENCINO MAN

    Lets take it back to the 90s! Join as we talk about the great Encino Man, known as California Man because no one knew what the heck Encino was outside of the U.S. Join us as we review the ultimate fish-out-of-water movie that launched Brendan Fraser’s career, co-starring pop culture icons Pauly Shore and Sean Astin. We break down the hilarious plot, from digging up a frozen caveman in a California backyard to surviving high school drama. Is it a masterpiece of 1990s cinema or total prehistoric pandemonium? Hit play to find out if this throwback comedy still holds up today!

    1h 1m
  5. EPISODE 33: CASINO WITH SPECIAL GUEST

    May 13

    EPISODE 33: CASINO WITH SPECIAL GUEST

    Step into the neon-lit world of Las Vegas with Smokey and the Snobby as we break down the legendary mob epic Casino. In this episode, we dive deep into the unforgettable performances by Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone and Don Rickles while exploring how Martin Scorsese created one of the greatest crime dramas ever made. Joining us for this special episode is guest Christ Mironescu, bringing fresh takes, heated debates, behind-the-scenes insights, and hilarious commentary as we discuss mafia power struggles, Vegas corruption, unforgettable movie moments, and whether Casino still holds up as one of the best gangster films of all time. From the dazzling casino floors to brutal mob betrayals, we cover iconic scenes, legendary quotes, real-life inspirations, cinematography, soundtrack choices, and the lasting influence Casino has had on crime movies and pop culture. Whether you’re a longtime fan of mob films, a lover of classic cinema, or discovering this Scorsese masterpiece for the first time, this episode delivers movie analysis, comedy, nostalgia, and passionate film discussion.

    1h 16m
  6. EPISODE 32: DEVIL WEARS PRADA

    May 6

    EPISODE 32: DEVIL WEARS PRADA

    Dive deep into our The Devil Wears Prada movie review on the Smokey and the Snobby Podcast. We analyze Miranda Priestly’s fashion legacy, Andy’s career transformation, and 2000s style trends. Is it the ultimate fashion film? Listen for our one expert film analysis and another Dingus with ears take. What better guest to have on this episode than our boss lady herself! We made this entire episode a family affair...Smokey, Snobby and Marie! If you've ever had a boss who sent you on an impossible errand during a hurricane or if you simply appreciate a well-placed monologue about cerulean blue, this episode is for you. We bring our signature blend of wit and critical analysis to one of the most quotable movies of all time. "That’s all." — Every time we finish a recording session.

    1h 9m
  7. EPISODE 31: THE PROMISE

    Apr 29

    EPISODE 31: THE PROMISE

    In the last movie for Armenian Heritage Month we discuss "The Promise". tune in as Smokey and the Snobby review the historical drama starring Oscar Isaac, Christian Bale, and Charlotte Le Bon set during the Armenian Genocide and the fall of the Ottoman Empire in World War I. We discuss the film’s story, performances, and how cinema can help raise awareness about the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Rotten Tomatoes check out our Instagram

    1h 14m
  8. EPISODE 30: UNCLE RAPHAEL

    Apr 22

    EPISODE 30: UNCLE RAPHAEL

    Armenian Heritage Month continues! Join us as we discuss over-the-top characters, comedic moments, and Armenian cultural themes, while debating whether Uncle Rafael is a hidden indie gem or a movie that should’ve stayed at the family dinner table. A movie about an Armenian Uncle to everyone, especially a classic American family he helps bring back together. a wholesome watch. As always, Smokey may find the charm and hidden gems, while Snobby is ready to roast every questionable decision the filmmakers made.

    49 min
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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Smokey and the Snobby, the movie podcast where one of us loves high-octane car chases and the other prefers Cannes Film Festival winners... guess who's who? Each week, this father-son duo fires up the engines and reviews films from both ends of the cinematic highway. Whether it's a fast-paced blockbuster or a slow-burning art house drama, we score each ride on our patented but very different 1-to-10 Smokey scale based on runtime, plot detours, and how lost we got in the weeds. Expect laughs, popcorn debates, and a whole lot of loving disagreement.

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