‘The Electric State’ Is a Netflix Nightmare. Plus, 10 (Better) Movies We Missed.
Mar 17, 2025
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In this lively discussion, Chris Ryan critiques the Netflix debacle 'The Electric State,' a film many consider one of the worst of the decade, diving into its disappointing execution and the Russo brothers' recent failures. Mark Anthony Green joins later to share his creative journey behind 'Opus,' highlighting the emotional challenges of filmmaking. The conversation shifts to a list of overlooked films worth watching, bringing to light hidden gems amidst criticisms of today's cinematic landscape. Expect insights, laughs, and a fresh take on modern filmmaking!
The podcast critiques 'The Electric State' as a glaring example of Netflix's decline in producing quality films amid lackluster originals.
A discussion on the Russo brothers' unsuccessful post-Marvel projects highlights concerns over creative direction in blockbuster filmmaking.
Listeners are introduced to a variety of underrated films that have been overlooked, providing alternatives to mainstream releases.
Mark Anthony Green's journey creating 'Opus' illustrates the challenges and triumphs filmmakers face bringing personal stories to life.
The episode emphasizes the shifting landscape of the film industry, raising questions about the balance between corporate interests and artistic integrity.
Deep dives
The Seattle Supersonics Legacy
The podcast delves into the storied history of the Seattle Supersonics, highlighting iconic players like Sean Kemp and Gary Payton. The emotional connection of fans is emphasized, portraying their passionate experiences with the team as pivotal in their lives. However, this legacy is overshadowed by the team's relocation to Oklahoma City, which is described as a profound loss for the Seattle basketball community. The narrative captures the essence of a city's heartbreak over the loss of a cherished sports franchise.
Voices from the Community
The discussion features various voices from the community, including fans, players, and even politicians, all sharing their perspectives on the Supersonics' impact. This chorus of sentiments underscores how the team was not just a source of entertainment but a vital part of Seattle’s identity. Politicians reveal their efforts to keep the team, reflecting the desperation and frustration felt by a city that values sports as a unifying force. These personal stories create a rich tapestry that illustrates the emotional weight of the Supersonics' departure.
Corporate Decisions and Fan Loyalty
The episode scrutinizes the corporate decisions that led to the Supersonics' relocation, portraying the disconnect between team ownership and the fanbase. Listeners are shown how economic factors played a significant role in the team's fate, ultimately prioritizing profits over community connection. The podcast poses tough questions about loyalty and the consequences of treating sports franchises as mere business transactions. By exploring these themes, it raises awareness of the broader implications when corporate decisions override passionate local ties.
Lessons from the Move
The podcast reflects on the lessons learned from the Supersonics’ move, hinting at how such events can galvanize community action and mobilize efforts for sports teams. The heartbreak of losing the Supersonics serves as a cautionary tale for other cities and fans, detailing how crucial it is to advocate for local teams. Inspiring examples of activism and community solidarity are highlighted, showcasing how fans can unite in the face of adversity. This narrative serves to engage listeners on the importance of protecting local sports relationships.
Exploring the Player Experience
Personal stories from Supersonics players add an intimate touch, revealing how their lives were intertwined with the city and fanbase. Players share their experiences of wearing the Sonics jersey with pride and the emotional implications of representing Seattle. The podcast dives into the mental toll on players when significant losses, like the team's relocation, occur, demonstrating how it affects not just their careers but also their identities. This perspective cultivates deep empathy for the players as people, rather than just figures on a court.
Political Reactions to the Move
The political environment surrounding the Supersonics' relocation is examined, revealing the responses from local government officials and their attempts to retain the franchise. Politicians recount initiatives and public campaigns aimed at securing the team's future in Seattle, painting a picture of a city desperately wanting to keep a piece of its cultural heritage. This political angle showcases the collective efforts to cooperate with the community and highlight just how intertwined sports are with local identity. It demonstrates the high stakes involved in team relocation decisions and their possible ramifications.
Community and Cultural Identity
The overarching theme of community and cultural identity emerges throughout the episode, disclosing how the Supersonics were a vital part of Seattle's social fabric. The narrative incorporates discussions on the role of sports in uniting diverse groups and fostering a shared identity among residents. Listeners are reminded that sports often reflect larger societal themes, and losing a team can have consequences that resonate beyond the basketball court. This theme serves to underscore the multifaceted importance that sports franchises hold in people's lives.
A Reflection on Dinosaurs and The King
A unique comparison is made with the mention of the infamous Kingdome, bringing a nostalgic and humorous element to the podcast. The discussion highlights how venues like the Kingdome became iconic symbols and environments for unforgettable moments in sports history. This light-hearted comparison serves to remind listeners of the transcendental experiences tied to live sports events. Reflections on the physical spaces of these memories help create a further emotional connection to the topic.
The Impacts of Relocation on Spirit
The podcast concludes with an examination of the long-term impacts of the Supersonics' relocation on the city's spirit and identity. The analysis explores how decades later, the absence of the Sonics continues to affect residents and fans alike. A sense of mourning lingers in the narratives shared, as people grapple with lost memories tied to the franchise. The challenges of replacing that proper connection to a once-beloved team encapsulate the reflective tone of the discussion, prompting listeners to consider the significance of remaining engaged in their community's sports culture.
Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the latest Netflix mega-budget action movie, ‘The Electric State,’ one of the worst movies of the decade so far (1:00). They discuss the state of Netflix’s influence on the movie industry and the series of disastrous movies made by the Russo brothers since they left Marvel. Then, they run through a list of other movies they’ve missed on the show, including ‘The Gorge’ (47:00), ‘Last Breath’ (56:00), ‘The Monkey’ (1:00:00), ‘Eephus’ (1:04:00), ‘Becoming Led Zeppelin’ (1:07:00), ‘Chaos: The Manson Murders’ (1:10:00), ‘Love Hurts’ (1:12:00), and ‘The Actor’ (1:13:00). Finally, Sean is joined by writer-director Mark Anthony Green to discuss the long journey to making his first feature, ‘Opus,’ starring Ayo Edeberi and John Malkovich (1:18:00).
