The Ringer-Verse

Daniel Chin, a film enthusiast and insightful critic, joins hosts Jomi and Steve to dissect the cinematic landscape of 2025. They share their confidence levels on movies like 'Thunderbolts' and 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.' The trio also debates the risks of live-action adaptations and Pixar's latest efforts, while expressing cautious anticipation for the 'Minecraft Movie.' Their lively banter mixes humor with honest critiques, illuminating the complex dynamics shaping the future of film franchises.

In this discussion, Matt James, the Ringer's deputy art lead and gaming expert, shares insights about the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal. He and host Ben Lindbergh dive into the exciting new features and the mixed public response. They discuss the potential for enhanced gaming with mouse functionality and the anticipation surrounding Mario Kart 9, including its innovative 24-player support. The podcast explores the console's place in the gaming landscape and ponders what future updates will bring to the beloved franchise.

The hosts dive into the finale of 'Skeleton Crew', expressing mixed feelings about character arcs and unresolved plotlines. They explore the newly released 'Daredevil: Born Again' trailer, indulging in nostalgia while analyzing character dynamics like Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk. Humorous takes on social media trends and cultural critiques add flavor to their discussion, while reflections on childhood movie tragedies evoke shared emotional experiences. Get ready for a blend of laughter, insightful commentary, and playful debates on current pop culture!

The hosts dive into the latest episodes of 'Skeleton Crew,' highlighting character development and exciting quests. They also tackle the buzz around the potential recasting of T'Challa in the upcoming 'Black Panther' films, discussing its cultural significance. Expect a mix of humor and thoughtful commentary as they reflect on the storytelling in Star Wars and the broader superhero genre. The conversation touches on audience expectations and the emotional depth missing in recent releases, creating a lively and engaging debate.

In this discussion, guest Jessica Clemons, a regular contributor known for her unique takes on fandom culture, teams up with Matt James, Deputy Art Lead at The Ringer and a Path of Exile enthusiast, to delve into the gaming horizon of 2025. They reflect on last year's gaming surprises and dissect the hype surrounding anticipated titles like 'GTA VI' and the new Switch. Their predictions cover a range of upcoming games, exploring the unpredictability of releases and the evolving landscape of gaming adaptations, igniting excitement for future innovations.

Dive into a hilarious reimagining of the 'Lord of the Rings' with an all-Black cast! The hosts explore the importance of representation in fantasy films and propose a playful yet impactful adaptation. From choosing directors like Jordan Peele to casting iconic roles with actors like Idris Elba and Zendaya, their chemistry shines through. Expect laughter as they brainstorm filming locations in Nigeria and debate comedic recasting options for beloved characters like Gollum. It's a lively celebration of diversity in storytelling!

Jessica Clemons, known for her expertise in fandom and insights on TV and movies, joins hosts Jomi and Steve for a lively discussion. They delve into the themes of celebrity desperation in film, sharing their horror movie experiences. A humorous debate ensues over 'Wicked' and animated adaptations like 'The Lion King'. The trio reflects on the evolution of 'The Dragon Prince' and the challenges it faced. With personal anecdotes and playful banter, they capture the year's pop culture highlights and what they look forward to in 2024.

Join Ringer staff writer Daniel Chin as he dives into the highly anticipated second season of 'Squid Game,' discussing its challenges in recapturing the magic of the first season and introducing fresh dynamics. He also analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of 'What If...?' Season 3, reflecting on its impact within the MCU. The crew shares exciting recommendations for December, including hidden gems in gaming and animation, a heartfelt tribute to beloved characters, and warns gamers about the addictive allure of 'Path of Exile 2.'

Dive into a lively discussion about the most anticipated movies and TV shows of 2024! The hosts rank everything from 'Kraven the Hunter' to 'Joker: Folie à Deux,' and critically assess sequels like 'Gladiator II' and 'Furiosa.' Hear their spirited debates on the balance between artistic expression and commercial success, as well as reflections on classic franchises like 'Planet of the Apes' and 'Dune.' Plus, enjoy humorous banter and intriguing takes on Netflix’s adaptations, making this a must-listen for pop culture enthusiasts!

In this lively discussion, Steve Ahlman, a witty game contributor, Matt James, a creative force at The Ringer, and insightful writer Justin Charity delve into the gaming trends of 2023. They highlight both 'naughty' and 'nice' trends, from live-service failures to the shift in console exclusivity. The trio drafts their most anticipated titles for 2024, celebrating diverse genres like expansive RPGs and charming indie games. The conversation brims with humor and debate, making it a must-listen for gaming enthusiasts!