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The Prequels can't escape our gaze forever. So once more we take a trip back in time to fix up Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. It's Dan's favorite Star Wars Prequel, does that mean that our intrepid heroes will go easy on it? Not likely. They have a solemn duty to fix it!00:00 - Intro01:13 - Movie Recap07:08 - What Dan Loves11:55 - What Nate Loves14:18 - Dan's Fix19:57 - Nate's Fix"Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones." Released in 2002, this film is the second installment in the Star Wars prequel trilogy and marks a pivotal chapter in the epic saga. George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars universe, returned to direct and co-write "Attack of the Clones," continuing his ambitious prequel trilogy that explores the origins of the iconic characters and the tumultuous events that shape the galaxy. Lucas's vision for this film was to deepen the narrative established in "The Phantom Menace" and set the stage for Anakin Skywalker's transformation into Darth Vader.No review of a Star Wars film would be complete without highlighting the contributions of composer John Williams. His score for "Attack of the Clones" is both epic and emotionally resonant, enhancing the film’s narrative. Themes such as "Across the Stars," which underscores the forbidden love between Anakin and Padmé, are memorable and beautifully orchestrated. Williams's music adds depth to the film, making key scenes more impactful.Hayden Christensen took on the challenging role of Anakin Skywalker, a character transitioning from a gifted Jedi apprentice to a troubled young man on the path to becoming Darth Vader. Christensen's performance captures Anakin's inner turmoil, ambition, and vulnerability. His portrayal highlights the character's struggle with his emotions and the temptations of the dark side.Natalie Portman returns as Padmé Amidala, bringing poise and depth to the character. Portman’s performance captures Padmé's strength, intelligence, and compassion. She portrays Padmé as a dedicated leader who is deeply committed to her responsibilities and the well-being of the Republic.Ewan McGregor reprises his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi, delivering a performance that balances charm and gravitas. McGregor’s portrayal captures Obi-Wan's wisdom, wit, and dedication to the Jedi Order. His mentorship of Anakin is a central element of the film, showcasing their evolving relationship.Christopher Lee's portrayal of Count Dooku is a standout performance in "Attack of the Clones." As the charismatic and enigmatic Sith Lord, Lee brings a commanding presence to the screen. Dooku’s character is central to the film’s exploration of political manipulation and the dark side of the Force.

Dan's been wanting to take on the MCU for a while now, and seized the opportunity to work with his friend, colleague, author, podcaster, and all around great guy Joshua Howell on Avengers: Age of Ultron. The most derided Avengers movie to date, it seemed the perfect place to start because it definitely needs some fixing. Check Joshua out at https://www.fierceliterature.com/and see his podcast Brilliant But Lazy here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJWJstJO8QQ00:00 - Intro02:56 - Movie Recap05:48 - What Joshua Loves07:42 - What Dan Loves12:33 - Joshua's Fix(es)22:27 - Dan's Fix Released in 2015, Avengers: Age of Ultron is the second Avengers installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), directed by the acclaimed Joss Whedon. Robert Downey Jr. once again shines as Tony Stark, bringing charisma and complexity to the role. Stark's creation of Ultron stems from his desire to protect the world, but his actions have unintended consequences. Downey Jr. portrays Stark's internal conflict, balancing his confidence with underlying guilt and fear. Chris Evans delivers a strong performance as Steve Rogers, embodying the moral center of the Avengers. Rogers's unwavering sense of duty and justice contrasts with Stark’s more pragmatic approach, leading to tension between the two. Evans captures Rogers’s resilience and leadership, showcasing his ability to inspire his teammates even in the face of overwhelming odds. Chris Hemsworth returns as Thor, bringing both humor and gravitas to the character. Thor's journey in "Age of Ultron" involves uncovering the mystery behind the Infinity Stones and grappling with his role in the larger cosmic conflict. Hemsworth’s portrayal balances Thor’s godly arrogance with a growing sense of responsibility. Mark Ruffalo’s portrayal of Bruce Banner continues to be a standout in the MCU. Banner’s struggle with his dual identity as the Hulk is a central theme in "Age of Ultron." Ruffalo brings a nuanced performance, capturing Banner’s intellect and vulnerability. The Hulkbuster fight showcases Ruffalo’s ability to convey the raw power and uncontrollable rage of the Hulk, while his interactions with Black Widow add a layer of emotional complexity.Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow is given more depth in "Age of Ultron." Her relationship with Banner provides a new dimension to her character, revealing her desire for redemption and connection. Johansson portrays Natasha’s strength and resilience, while also exposing her vulnerability and regret. Jeremy Renner’s Clint Barton, or Hawkeye, is given significant development in "Age of Ultron." The reveal of his wife (played by Linda Cardellini) and home life adds depth to his character, highlighting his humanity and motivations. Renner’s performance brings warmth and relatability to Barton, emphasizing his role as the heart of the team. His interactions with the other Avengers, particularly during the farm scenes, provide a grounded perspective amidst the superhuman drama.James Spader’s voice performance as Ultron is a highlight of the film. Spader brings a chilling yet charismatic presence to the AI antagonist, infusing Ultron with a mix of intelligence, sarcasm, and menace. His portrayal emphasizes Ultron’s warped sense of purpose and his disdain for humanity. Elizabeth Olsen introduces Wanda Maximoff, also known as Scarlet Witch, with a powerful performance. Olsen captures Wanda’s journey from a vengeful adversary to a conflicted ally. Her portrayal conveys Wanda’s emotional depth and immense power, adding a new dimension to the Avengers’ roster. The scenes where she manipulates the Avengers’ minds are particularly effective, showcasing Olsen’s ability to portray both vulnerability and intensity.Paul Bettany, previously the voice of JARVIS, steps into the role of Vision, bringing a serene and philosophical presence to the character. Vision’s creation is a pivotal moment in the film, and Bettany’s performance captures hi

Not that long ago, in a galaxy very very near Dan and Nate got to meet in person to tackle the first of the Star Wars prequels. Universally debated among Star Wars fans, is it good, is it bad? Either way, they are going to make it better! If they were movie producers in 1999 that had seen the film, this is what they would do to fix it!

00:00 - Intro

00:58 - Movie Recap

07:10 - What Dan Loves

10:35 - What Nate Loves

12:59 - Dan's Fix

16:46 - Nate's Fix


Released in 1999, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace marked the long-awaited return of one of cinema's most beloved franchises. Directed by George Lucas, this epic space opera takes viewers on a journey to a galaxy far, far away, where Jedi Knights, Sith Lords, and epic battles between good and evil await. In this in-depth video review, we delve into the cast, director, and composer of The Phantom Menace, examining their contributions to the enduring legacy of the Star Wars saga.

Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn: Neeson delivers a commanding performance as Qui-Gon Jinn, a wise and enigmatic Jedi Master who serves as mentor to the young Anakin Skywalker. With his stoic demeanor and quiet strength, Neeson embodies the noble ideals of the Jedi Order, bringing depth and gravitas to the role.Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi: McGregor steps into the role of the legendary Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi with aplomb, capturing the character's youthful energy and sense of adventure. With his charming wit and swashbuckling bravado, McGregor brings a new dimension to the iconic character, laying the groundwork for his transformation into the wise and venerable Jedi Master seen in the original trilogy.Natalie Portman as Queen Amidala: Portman delivers a regal and captivating performance as Queen Amidala, the young ruler of Naboo. With her poise, grace, and inner strength, Portman portrays Amidala as a formidable leader and a force to be reckoned with, capturing the character's determination and resilience in the face of adversity.Ray Park as Darth Maul: Ray Park's portrayal of Darth Maul adds a menacing physicality to the character, with his acrobatic martial arts skills bringing the Sith Lord to life in electrifying fashion. Park's iconic performance, combined with his intense presence and mastery of the double-bladed lightsaber, solidifies Darth Maul as one of the most memorable villains in cinematic history.
George Lucas, the visionary filmmaker behind the original Star Wars trilogy, returns to the director's chair for The Phantom Menace, bringing his singular vision and creative genius to the screen once again.With its groundbreaking special effects and stunning visual design, The Phantom Menace transports viewers to a galaxy far, far away, immersing them in a world of epic space battles, exotic alien planets, and larger-than-life characters. From the bustling streets of Coruscant to the serene beauty of Naboo, Lucas creates a visually stunning and immersive universe that captivates audiences from start to finish.No discussion of The Phantom Menace would be complete without mentioning the iconic score composed by the legendary John Williams. With its stirring orchestral arrangements, haunting melodies, and memorable themes, Williams' score elevates the film to new heights, capturing the grandeur and spectacle of the Star Wars universe. Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace is a cinematic masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences with its epic story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking special effects. From its talented cast and visionary director to its iconic composer, The Phantom Menace represents the culmination of George Lucas' creative vision and the enduring legacy of the Star Wars saga. As we celebrate the film's 25th anniversary, let us rediscover the magic of The Phantom Menace and revel in the timeless appeal of the Star Wars universe.

In our second part of celebrating all things Star Trek, Dan and Nate are again joined by Graham. If you love Star Trek and you've seen all 800+ hours of it, then we've got some recommendations for you! Building on everything that Star Trek does well, we talk about other movies or shows that we love and that are somewhat similar to Star Trek. If you're looking for something new to watch, then watch this!
00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Dan's Recommendations
05:54 - Graham's Recommendations
12:38 - Nate's Recommendations
Since its inception in 1966, Star Trek has not only captivated audiences with its tales of exploration, adventure, and diplomacy but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of science fiction television. In this celebratory video, we embark on a journey through the stars, exploring the profound influence that Star Trek has had on other science fiction shows, from beloved classics to modern masterpieces.
From The Orville to The Expanse, from Galaxy Quest to Stargate SG-1, the influence of Star Trek on science fiction television is undeniable. Through its exploration of themes such as exploration, diplomacy, and the human condition, Star Trek has inspired countless shows to boldly go where no one has gone before, forging new frontiers and captivating audiences for generations to come. As we celebrate the legacy of Star Trek, let us also celebrate the diverse and vibrant tapestry of science fiction television that it has inspired, and may its influence continue to inspire future generations of storytellers and dreamers.

We love everything about Star Trek! We've fixed and pitched our way through the movies and we had so much more to say. We also invited our cousin Graham back to help us cover it all. With so many series, movies and everything else it's hard to know where to start. It's also very easy for certain series and films to get lost in the shuffle. We celebrate all things Star Trek by debating the best place for a new fan to jump in to these very deep waters, and discussing the most underrated piece of Star Trek. If you love Star Trek too, then enjoy!

00:00 - Intro
1:17 - Dan's best place to start
8:30 - Graham's best place to start
12:20 - Nate's best place to start
17:05 - Dan's most underrated Star Trek
20:55 - Graham's most underrated Star Trek
24:57 - Nate's most underrated Star Trek

In 1966, Gene Roddenberry introduced audiences to the USS Enterprise and its crew in the original Star Trek series. Led by Captain James T. Kirk, played with swagger and charm by William Shatner, the crew of the Enterprise embarked on a five-year mission to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no one has gone before.

The original series broke new ground with its diverse cast and progressive themes, tackling social issues such as racism, war, and the Cold War allegory in thought-provoking and allegorical ways. With its innovative storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, and memorable characters like Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy) and Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy (DeForest Kelley), the original series laid the foundation for what would become one of the most beloved franchises in history.

In 1987, Star Trek returned to television with The Next Generation, helmed by Gene Roddenberry and featuring a new cast of characters led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard, played with gravitas and authority by Sir Patrick Stewart. Set decades after the original series, The Next Generation followed the adventures of the USS Enterprise-D as it explored the galaxy and encountered new species and civilizations.

Following the success of The Next Generation, Star Trek continued to expand its universe with the launch of Deep Space Nine in 1993 and Voyager in 1995. Set on a space station near a stable wormhole and a starship lost in the far reaches of the galaxy, respectively, Deep Space Nine and Voyager explored new aspects of the Star Trek universe while remaining true to Gene Roddenberry's vision of a hopeful future.

Deep Space Nine delved into darker and more complex themes, exploring issues of war, politics, and religion in ways that were unprecedented for the franchise. Voyager, on the other hand, followed the adventures of the USS Voyager as it journeyed home from the Delta Quadrant, encountering new species and challenges along the way.

New iterations of the Star Trek franchise have expanded its legacy, offering fresh perspectives while staying true to its core principles. "Star Trek: Discovery" (2017) ventures into the 23rd century, while "Star Trek: Picard" (2020) brings back Admiral Jean-Luc Picard for a new mission. "Star Trek: Lower Decks" (2020) takes a comedic approach, and "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" (upcoming) revisits the era of Captain Pike. Also upcoming is "Star Trek: Prodigy," targeting younger audiences. These series continue to inspire and explore the human condition, ensuring Gene Roddenberry's legacy endures.

As we celebrate Star Trek and its enduring legacy, we are reminded of the power of storytelling to inspire, to uplift, and to unite. From its humble beginnings with the original series to its current incarnations, Star Trek has continued to push the boundaries of what is possible, challenging us to imagine a better world and inspiring us to strive for greatness. As we look to the future, let us continue to boldly go where no one has gone before, and may the spirit of Star Trek live long and prosper.

Nate really wanted to take a crack at this 1965 absurd British comedy that even the biggest Beatles fan would probably rather forget. When we get tough assignments you know how we rise to the occasion. We're here to fix Help! (The movie, not the album... the album is amazing).

00:00 - Intro
01:30 - Movie Recap
05:02 - What Dan Likes
07:59 - What Nate Likes
13:10 - Dan's Fix
17:37 - Nate's Fix

Released in 1965, HELP! stands as a vibrant testament to The Beatles' cultural impact beyond the realm of music. Directed by Richard Lester, this comedic musical adventure takes viewers on a whirlwind journey with the Fab Four as they find themselves entangled in a farcical plot involving an ancient cult and a sacred ring. In this comprehensive video review, we delve into the cinematic brilliance of HELP!, examining the performances of each Beatle and the directorial prowess of Richard Lester.

HELP! showcases The Beatles at the height of their fame, effortlessly transitioning from musical icons to silver screen stars. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr each bring their unique personalities and comedic talents to their respective roles, infusing the film with charm, wit, and irreverence.

John Lennon as John: With his dry wit and deadpan delivery, Lennon shines as the group's leader, effortlessly commanding the screen with his charismatic presence and sharp comedic timing. Whether he's delivering sardonic one-liners or getting caught up in the film's zany antics, Lennon proves himself to be a natural actor with a flair for comedy.
Paul McCartney as Paul: McCartney brings his trademark charm and boyish charisma to the role of Paul, the heartthrob of the group. With his infectious smile and easygoing demeanor, McCartney lights up the screen, effortlessly winning over audiences with his natural charisma and magnetic screen presence.
George Harrison as George: Harrison, the quietest member of The Beatles, shines in HELP! with his understated humor and laid-back attitude. Despite having fewer lines than his bandmates, Harrison makes the most of his screen time, delivering memorable moments and showcasing his comedic chops.
Ringo Starr as Ringo: Starr, known for his affable personality and distinctive comedic timing, steals the show as the lovable and hapless Ringo. From his deadpan delivery to his expressive facial expressions, Starr imbues his character with warmth and humanity, endearing himself to audiences as the heart and soul of the film.

At the helm of HELP! is director Richard Lester, whose innovative filmmaking techniques and irreverent sense of humor helped to redefine the musical comedy genre. Building upon the success of A Hard Day's Night, Lester brings his signature style to HELP!, infusing the film with kinetic energy, visual flair, and offbeat humor.

With its fast-paced humor and slapstick antics, HELP! is a masterclass in comedic timing and physical comedy. Lester's keen sense of timing and his ability to wring laughs out of even the most absurd situations ensure that the film remains as funny and enjoyable today as it was upon its release.

As a musical comedy, HELP! features several standout musical sequences that showcase The Beatles' musical talents and Lester's directorial flair. From the energetic performance of the title track to the psychedelic stylings of "Ticket to Ride," Lester infuses each musical number with visual dynamism and creative ingenuity.

In conclusion, HELP! stands as a testament to The Beatles' enduring legacy as cultural icons and Richard Lester's talent as a director. With its infectious energy, irreverent humor, and catchy soundtrack, HELP! remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain audiences of all ages. As we celebrate the film's 60th anniversary, let us rediscover the magic of HELP! and revel in the joy and camaraderie of The Beatles' cinematic adventure.