Review It Yourself

Review It Yourself

Film Reviews without the Faff! With Sean from the North and Sarah from the South. New episodes every Sunday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 4d ago

    Shrek (2001) with Luke from 'The Howdy Beans Podcast' and co-host Sarah

    Why Shrek remains the funniest and most heartfelt fairy tale. In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean and Sarah are joined by Luke from The Howdy Beans Podcast to revisit the animated classic that changed fairy tales forever: Shrek (2001). Twenty Five years after its release, Shrek remains one of the most influential animated films ever made. Packed with unforgettable characters, sharp comedy, emotional depth, and a soundtrack that became iconic, DreamWorks' green ogre continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Together, Sean, Sarah, and Luke explore what makes Shrek such an enduring classic. From Mike Myers' legendary performance and Eddie Murphy's scene-stealing Donkey to the film's clever subversion of traditional fairy tale tropes, this conversation covers everything that helped Shrek become a cultural phenomenon. The discussion also dives into the film's surprisingly emotional themes, including friendship, acceptance, self-worth, prejudice, and finding people who truly see you for who you are. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, personal memories, favourite moments, and reflections on why Shrek still works so well more than two decades later. Whether you grew up watching Shrek on rainy school days or are discovering it for the first time, this episode celebrates one of the greatest animated movies ever made. In This EpisodeWhy Shrek revolutionised animated filmmakingThe genius of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron DiazFairy tale satire done rightFriendship and acceptance as core themesWhy Donkey remains one of animation's greatest sidekicksThe emotional depth hidden beneath the comedyFavourite scenes, quotes, and momentsHow Shrek continues to connect with audiences todayAbout Our GuestLuke is the host of The Howdy Beans Podcast, where he explores movies, books, video games, and overlooked gems that deserve more attention. If you enjoy discovering unusual, underrated, and fascinating entertainment, be sure to check out his show. Follow The Howdy Beans PodcastYouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, TikTok and Instagram: Search: The Howdy Beans Podcast Listen If You EnjoyShrekDreamWorks AnimationAnimated movie reviewsFamily filmsFairy tale adaptationsMovie podcastsComedy filmsNostalgia discussionsFilm analysisPop culture podcastsFollow Review It YourselfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com Support The PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating on Spotify ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ⭐ Follow and subscribe wherever you listen ⭐ Share the episode with fellow movie fans ⭐ Recommend Review It Yourself to friends and family Your support helps more listeners discover independent film discussion and keeps the podcast growing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Jul 18

    Spartacus (1960) with co-host Sarah

    Epic Battles, Betrayal, and One of Cinema’s Most Powerful Endings! In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean and Sarah tackle one of the greatest historical epics ever made: Spartacus (1960). What begins as a discussion of Roman slavery, gladiatorial combat, and rebellion quickly becomes an emotional deep dive into a film that still packs a punch more than six decades later. Sarah discovers that she may never have actually seen the ending of Spartacus, leading to genuine shock as the hosts unpack the devastating final act, the famous “I’m Spartacus” moment, and why this classic remains one of the most influential films in cinema history. Sean and Sarah explore the film’s incredible cast, including Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Peter Ustinov, Charles Laughton, Jean Simmons, and Tony Curtis. They also discuss Stanley Kubrick’s direction, the film’s Academy Award success, the realities of Roman history, and how Spartacus helped redefine the Hollywood epic. Whether you're a fan of classic films, historical dramas, sword-and-sandal adventures, or simply want to revisit one of the greatest movies ever made, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In This EpisodeReviewing Spartacus (1960)Sarah's reaction to the film's tragic endingThe historical Spartacus and the Third Servile WarKirk Douglas and Stanley Kubrick's legendary collaborationThe iconic "I'm Spartacus" sceneRoman slavery, gladiator schools, and rebellionPeter Ustinov's Oscar-winning performanceThe film's lasting influence on cinemaWhy Spartacus remains essential viewing today About Spartacus (1960)Released in 1960 and directed by Stanley Kubrick, Spartacus stars Kirk Douglas as the Thracian slave who leads a massive revolt against the Roman Republic. The film won four Academy Awards and remains one of the defining historical epics of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Follow Review It Yourself📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 🐦 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview 🦋 BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 📧 Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com Support the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, please: Follow the podcast on your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyShare the episode with fellow film fansFollow us on social media for updates and new releasesYour support helps more listeners discover the show and keeps independent podcasting alive. Listen If You EnjoyClassic CinemaHistorical MoviesStanley Kubrick FilmsKirk Douglas MoviesRoman HistoryGladiator FilmsFilm ReviewsMovie Discussion PodcastsHollywood ClassicsAcademy Award-Winning Films Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Jul 11

    Goodnight Mister Tom (1998 TV Film) with Luke from 'The Howdy Beans Podcast'

    From Wartime Hardship to Hope, One of Britain's Most Beloved Stories. In this heartfelt episode of Review It Yourself, Sean is joined by Luke from The Howdy Beans Podcast to discuss the beloved 1998 television adaptation of Goodnight Mister Tom. Based on the classic novel by Michelle Magorian, this moving story follows young evacuee William Beech as he leaves wartime London and forms an unlikely bond with the gruff but compassionate Tom Oakley. Together, we explore why Goodnight Mister Tom remains one of the most emotionally powerful British films ever made. From its unforgettable performances by John Thaw and Nick Robinson to its themes of friendship, trauma, healing, childhood resilience and life during World War II, this episode dives deep into what makes this adaptation such an enduring classic. Luke shares his lifelong connection to the film, while we discuss how the story changes as you revisit it at different stages of life. We also compare the television adaptation to the original novel, reflect on the legacy of Michelle Magorian, and examine why this story continues to move audiences decades after its release. Whether you grew up watching Goodnight Mister Tom, studied the novel at school, or are discovering it for the first time, this episode celebrates a timeless piece of British storytelling that continues to touch hearts across generations. In This EpisodeWhy Goodnight Mister Tom remains a British classicJohn Thaw's unforgettable performance as Tom OakleyWillie Beech's emotional journey from abuse to belongingThe realities of child evacuation during World War IIComparing the film adaptation with Michelle Magorian's novelThemes of kindness, healing, friendship, loss and hopeWhy this story still resonates with modern audiencesLuke's personal history with the filmBritish television adaptations that stand the test of time Guest DetailsLuke "The Elder Bean" from The Howdy Beans Podcast joins us for this discussion. Listen to The Howdy Beans Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-howdy-beans-podcast/id1781351772 Follow The Howdy Beans Podcast: X / Twitter: https://x.com/HowdyBeans_podYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHowdyBeansPodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_howdybeans_podcast The Howdy Beans Podcast covers movies, television, books, video games, nostalgia, Goosebumps novels, cult classics and much more. Follow, Contact & Support Review It YourselfStay up to date with the latest film reviews, television discussions, book chats, interviews and special episodes from Review It Yourself. Follow Review It Yourself: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode on Goodnight Mister Tom, please: Follow Review It Yourself on your favourite podcast appLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyShare this episode on social mediaRecommend the show to friends, family and fellow film loversEvery follow, review and share helps independent podcasts grow and reach new listeners. Why You Should Watch Goodnight Mister TomMore than twenty-five years after its release, Goodnight Mister Tom remains one of the finest British television dramas ever produced. Combining powerful performances, emotional storytelling and an authentic depiction of wartime Britain, it continues to resonate with viewers of all ages. If you're a fan of British drama, literary adaptations, World War II stories, coming-of-age films or emotionally moving character studies, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Book Recommendations: -The Day They Took The Children, No Time To Wave Goodbye and Waiting for the All Clear by Ben Wicks. -Under Fire: Black Britain in Wartime 1939-45 by Stephen Bourne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Jul 4

    Who Dares Wins (1982) with Paul from 'History Rage'

    An explosive SAS action thriller sparks fierce debate and unforgettable eighties nostalgia In this episode of Review It Yourself, we dive into the controversial 1982 British action thriller Who Dares Wins — the cult classic starring Lewis Collins that blends SAS action, Cold War paranoia, terrorism, political extremism, and one unforgettable embassy siege finale. Joined by returning guest Paul from 'History Rage', we break down why Who Dares Wins starts with genuine tension and political intrigue before veering into one of the most divisive first halves we’ve ever reviewed on the podcast. Is this an underrated British action gem inspired by the real Iranian Embassy siege? Or is it a painfully slow thriller redeemed only by its explosive final act? Expect discussion on: The film’s connection to the 1980 Iranian Embassy siegeSAS representation in 1980s British cinemaNuclear protest politics and Cold War fearsLewis Collins as an action heroWild pacing problems and baffling plot decisionsThe infamous embassy assault sequenceWhether Who Dares Wins deserves cult classic status If you love vintage action movies, British cult cinema, SAS thrillers, Cannon-style action films, or deep-dive movie reviews with strong opinions and humour, this episode is for you. Guest Paul returns for another lively debate-filled review, bringing his passion for classic action cinema and plenty of disagreement along the way. Find Paul at https://www.historyrage.com/ Follow Review It Yourself and join the conversation: Instagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021X: @YourselfReviewBlueSky: Review It YourselfThreads: @YourselfReviewEmail: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com Enjoying the show? Support Review It Yourself by: Following and subscribing on your favourite podcast appLeaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifySharing the episode with fellow film fansRecommending the podcast on social media Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Jun 27

    Troy (2004), Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) and Odyssey (2026): Preview It Yourself 12

    Ancient epics, Nolan controversy, and brutal trailer reactions from passionate film fans. In this episode of Review It Yourself, hosts Sean and Sarah dive into the newly released trailer for Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated adaptation of The Odyssey (2026), while comparing it to classic historical epics including Troy (2004) and Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014). Does Nolan’s Odyssey look like the next cinematic masterpiece — or an emotionally empty spectacle? Sean and Sarah break down the trailer’s visuals, performances, accents, dialogue, battle sequences, and overall tone, while debating whether Homer’s legendary story can truly work on screen in the modern blockbuster era. The conversation also explores: Why modern historical epics struggle to connect emotionallyComparisons with Dune, Oppenheimer, and TenetMatt Damon, Robert Pattinson, Tom Holland, and the cast expectationsWhy Troy still works as an epic movie experienceRidley Scott’s approach to historical filmmakingWhether audiences still want large-scale mythological cinemaThe importance of atmosphere, wonder, and character in fantasy storytelling If you love movie reviews, historical epics, mythology, Christopher Nolan discussions, or film trailer breakdowns, this episode is packed with passionate debate and sharp opinions. Featured Films & TopicsThe Odyssey (2026)Troy (2004)Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)Christopher NolanRidley ScottHomer’s OdysseyHistorical & mythological cinemaEpic movie trailersFantasy and war films About Review It YourselfReview It Yourself is the podcast where honest opinions meet movies, TV, games, trailers, and pop culture discussion — without corporate fluff or forced positivity. 📢 Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com Support The PodcastIf you enjoy the show: Follow the podcast on your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyShare the episode with fellow film fansSubscribe for more movie reviews, trailer reactions, and pop culture discussions Whether you’re excited for Nolan’s Odyssey or already worried about another overblown epic, this episode gives you plenty to think about before the film arrives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Troy (2004), Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014) and Odyssey (2026): Preview It Yourself 12
  6. Jun 20

    Crave (2025) with Director, Writer and Star Deb Twiss

    Love, grief, desire, and rebirth collide in Deb Twiss’s Crave journeyIn this emotionally honest and deeply engaging episode of Review It Yourself, Sean sits down with filmmaker, writer, actor, and creative force Deb Twiss to discuss her powerful new independent film Crave (2025). Exploring themes of love after loss, emotional vulnerability, self-discovery, relationships, intimacy, and personal liberation, Crave is a bold indie drama that refuses to shy away from the complexities of real human connection. Deb Twiss opens up about the deeply personal inspirations behind Crave, including grief, healing, and navigating life after devastating loss. Together, Sean and Deb unpack how the film balances sensuality, emotional honesty, hope, and realism while also diving into the realities of independent filmmaking, guerrilla shooting techniques, music, cinematography, and character-driven storytelling. If you love independent cinema, emotionally intelligent drama, behind-the-scenes filmmaking discussions, or films exploring mature relationships and emotional growth, this is an essential listen. In This EpisodeDeb Twiss discusses the inspiration behind Crave (2025)The emotional themes of grief, healing, desire, and personal rebirthCreating authentic adult relationships on screenHow music shapes the emotional identity of the filmIndependent filmmaking and guerrilla production techniquesShooting scenes using innovative low-budget filmmaking methods About Crave (2025)Crave follows Abigail, a woman struggling to rebuild her life after the death of her husband. As she forms a passionate and emotionally complex connection with her friend Max, the film explores themes of grief, emotional dependency, intimacy, healing, liberation, and rediscovering identity. Set against the backdrop of New York City, Crave combines raw emotional honesty with stylish indie filmmaking to create a mature, thought-provoking drama about what it means to truly reconnect with yourself and others. Why You Should ListenThis episode goes far beyond a standard film review. Sean and Deb Twiss explore: The emotional realities behind storytellingHow personal experiences shape creative workThe changing landscape of independent cinemaThe importance of authentic representation in relationshipsMental health, emotional growth, and vulnerabilityHow filmmakers can create visually stunning work on limited budgetsWhether you are a filmmaker, film fan, writer, actor, or simply someone interested in meaningful conversations about life, art, and emotional resilience, this episode offers genuine insight and inspiration. Guest Details – Deb TwissDeb Twiss is a filmmaker, writer, actor, and creative artist behind the 2025 indie drama Crave. Follow and support Deb Twiss: Instagram: deborahtwiss Threads: @deborahtwissCrave on IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38068899/ Follow Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more film reviews, filmmaker interviews, TV discussions, pop culture conversations, and independent cinema coverage. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode of Review It Yourself, please: Follow the podcast on your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyShare the episode on social mediaRecommend the podcast to fellow film fansEngage with the show online and send in your film review requests Every review, share, comment, and recommendation genuinely helps independent podcasts grow and reach new listeners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Jun 13

    Vertical Limit (2000) Part Two with co-host Sarah

    High-altitude chaos, nitro explosions, and questionable climbing decisions collide In this second part of Review It Yourself’s deep dive into Vertical Limit, Sean and Sarah push further up the mountain—and deeper into the madness. From explosive set pieces to surprisingly brutal injuries, this episode breaks down everything that makes this cult climbing thriller unforgettable… for better and worse. Picking up where Part One left off, the conversation explores the film’s most intense sequences, including the deadly realities of high-altitude climbing, where your body is already failing long before the danger even begins . The hosts dive into the film’s logic (or lack of it), debating whether the action holds up or collapses under its own ambition—often hilariously. Expect plenty of sharp observations and laughs as they unpack the film’s wild choices, from characters making questionable survival decisions to the sheer physical toll of climbing up… and especially down. There’s also discussion of memorable moments that stuck with them since childhood, including some genuinely grim scenes involving injury and survival . By the end, Sean and Sarah reflect on whether Vertical Limit deserves its place as a cult favourite, or if it’s simply an over-the-top relic of early 2000s action cinema. Either way, it’s a film that sparks strong reactions—and makes for a highly entertaining review. If you enjoy film reviews with honest opinions, humour, and zero pretension, this episode delivers exactly that. 🎧 What you’ll hear in this episode:A breakdown of Vertical Limit’s most intense and ridiculous momentsDiscussion of realism vs spectacle in extreme climbing filmsMemorable (and painful) injury scenes and survival momentsWhether the film still holds up todayTangents, laughs, and classic Review It Yourself banter 📲 Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com 💬 Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, here’s how you can help support Review It Yourself: Follow/subscribe on your podcast platformLeave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare the episode with friends who love film discussionsEngage on social media and let us know your thoughts Every bit of support helps the podcast grow and keeps new episodes coming. Film Reviews Without the Faff—just honest opinions, debate, and a lot of fun. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Jun 13

    Vertical Limit (2000) Part One with co-host Sarah

    A ridiculous climb, impossible odds, and a surprisingly fun debate In this episode of Review It Yourself, we take on the 2000 survival thriller Vertical Limit—a film that’s equal parts intense, absurd, and weirdly unforgettable. Hosts Sean and Sarah go head-to-head as nostalgia clashes with scepticism in a lively, funny, and surprisingly thoughtful deep dive into one of the most over-the-top mountaineering films ever made. Sean comes in with a soft spot for the film, while Sarah questions whether it deserves any praise at all. What follows is a sharp, entertaining breakdown of explosive action scenes, questionable realism, and the emotional stakes behind the story. From the infamous opening tragedy to the film’s relentless escalation, the discussion highlights just how much Vertical Limit asks its audience to suspend disbelief. But this episode goes beyond just picking apart unrealistic climbing sequences. Sean and Sarah dig into the deeper themes—exploring ambition, ego, and the ethics of risking lives for glory. The film’s portrayal of mountaineering culture, corporate greed, and extreme decision-making becomes a springboard for wider conversation about human nature under pressure. Along the way, there’s plenty of humour as the hosts debate whether this is the “dumbest” film they’ve covered—or simply one of the most entertaining. They also touch on standout performances, character motivations, and the film’s place in early 2000s action cinema. The result is an episode that balances critique with genuine enjoyment, making it perfect for film fans who love both analysis and banter. If you enjoy film reviews that don’t take themselves too seriously—but still offer real insight—this episode delivers exactly that. 🎧 Why You Should ListenA fun and honest Vertical Limit (2000) reviewDebate: nostalgia vs. reality in action filmsDiscussion of mountaineering accuracy and cinematic exaggerationThemes of ambition, ego, survival, and corporate greedPlenty of laughs alongside thoughtful film analysis 📢 Follow & Connect with Review It YourselfStay up to date with new episodes, join the conversation, and share your thoughts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com 💬 Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, here’s how you can help Review It Yourself grow: Subscribe on your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and review on Apple PodcastsShare the episode with friends and fellow film fansEngage on social media and join the discussionYour support helps keep the show going and brings more honest, entertaining film reviews your way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4.7
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Film Reviews without the Faff! With Sean from the North and Sarah from the South. New episodes every Sunday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.