Movies, Films and Flix

This week we discuss Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004), Milla Jovovich's motorcycle-jumping and dumpster-diving stunts, the big slow ugly hulking menace that is the Nemesis Program, and wardrobe trends among the ass-kicking heroes of film. As we answer some inspired Listener Questions we explore other major action franchises' tank top wardrobing trends, a few nods to iconic zombie cinema, and the deviation of films from its video game source material.

Mark and John talk about 2002's Resident Evil and get ready to do a deep-dive into the entire franchise. Paul W.S. Anderson's Resident Evil series is an odd outlier in the Hollywood system, and it's been fun to watch as Milla Jovovich's Alice character has evolved from a buttkicking hero into an ultimate badass who gets stuck in very uncomfortable outfits. If you are looking for a podcast episode that covers every aspect of 2002's Resident Evil (even the Blu-ray commentaries) you've come to the right place. If you aren't a fan of the franchise, this episode might change your opionion and make you realize its an underrated addition to the zombie genre.Enjoy!

Mark, John and Megan discuss the amazing Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. If you are looking for a massive science fiction film that features 300+ aliens, huge set pieces and Cara Delevingne sticking her head into a jellyfish's butt you will love this movie. Luc Besson was given $177 million to make his dream project and he used every cent to create this underappreciated gem. Every cent of the $177 is seen onscreen and there are some truly jaw-dropping moments that showcase why WETA are the best at creating jawdropping visual effects. You need to watch the movie then listen to this podcast. You will love it.Enjoy!

Mark and Megan discuss Ben Wheatley's gunfight classic Free Fire. If you haven't watched Free Fire you need to immediately check it out because it's loaded with fantastic action, dialogue and actors. It's an absolute blast that features A-list talent like Brie Larson, Armie Hammer, Cillain Murphy, Jack Reynor, Sam Riley and Sharlto Copley. Also, Ben Wheatley (Sightseers, Down Terrace, Kill List, A Field in England) is one of the most interesting directors working today and hopefully this podcast will inspire you to check out his brilliant films. Enjoy!

Mark and Robert discuss the greatest trilogy of films to ever be tied together by an ice cream cone. Director/writer Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost pulled their talents together and created a fan-favorite trilogy of movies that feature zombies, rural cops, and a pub crawl to end all pub crawls. These movies are endlessly rewatchable and feature some of the funniest 21st-century gags (WTF!) that get funnier once you learn how much work went into crafting them. In this podcast, you will hear about the best moments, cheekiest gags and best usages of music featured in the glorious Cornetto Trilogy. Enjoy!

Mark and John talk about M. Night Shyamalan's B-movie classic 'The Happening.' They discuss alternate timelines, lemon drinks and Mark Wahlberg giving an A+ effort in his quest to convincingly play a science teacher. If you are looking for some 'The Happening' hate you've come to the wrong place because they love the movie, and think Shyamalan knew exactly what he was doing when he plotted everything out.Enjoy!

Last week Mark and John discussed Tom Holland's Fright Night (1985) and the documentary of the making of the film (You're So Cool, Brewster). This week they explore the merits of the Fright Night (2011) remake, CGI versus iconography, and its dynamite cast. They address why was there no Billy Cole or wolf form, modernized characters and David Tennant's new spin on Peter Vincent, vampire turning farms, and what would happen if Green Room (2015) and From Dusk til Dawn (1996) crossed paths as they answer some inspired Listener Questions.

Mark and John discuss Tom Holland's Fright Night (1985), a contemporary vampire film that is loaded with gooey practical special effects and humor; and discuss the documentary of the making of Fright Night (1985) (You're So Cool, Brewster), covering the inspirational behind-the-scenes story of the film. On their banterous journey, they muse the best (i.e., favorite) vampire films, the role of Billy Cole (and what he actually is), and the wonderfully charming vampire neighbor Jerry. Next week (in part 2) they move on to the Fright Night (2011) remake!

Mark and John discuss the techno-thriller Upgrade (2018), Leigh Whannell's wondrous writing, and brutal tech-marionetted fight scenes! They also muse about whether or not this is a contemporary exploitation movie, what kinds of projects they'd love to see Whannell pursue next, the motives behind STEM, and possible sequel plots.Enjoy!

Mark and John discuss the Star Wars prequel Solo and wonder how giant space monsters feed themselves. If you are a fan of the Star Wars world and like podcasts that get incredibly nerdy about it, you will love this episode. You will hear about spoilers, cameos, Easter eggs and all the behind the scenes drama that happened before the movie hit the screens. Enjoy!