J.J. Abrams returns to Star Wars with The Rise of Skywalker, and to end a 9-film saga. For this go round, Rey (Daisy Ridley), Finn (John Boyega), and Poe (Oscar Isaac) have been tasked with locating a hidden planet that contains the key to bringing down the entirety of The First Order, now led by Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). Still conflicted with his connection to Rey, Kylo – aka Ben Solo – struggles and pontificates on his place in this world, as Rey continues to force forward towards completing her journey and saving the galaxy. And yes, Rey and Kylo continue their back-and-forth psychic shenanigans about who is worth redemption, and who is truly pulling whom into the Dark Side.

On this episode, we dive head-first into the final film in this epic series (for now), and specifically what we loved and loathed about this latest attempt to satisfy fans worldwide. Is it too safe? Does it wrap up all of those insane loose ends? Does Kylo care about Rey as more than just a frenemy, or would Finn be better suited? Also, what's up with all those cameos?! We have a lot to discuss, and limited time to do it, so this is one podcast you do NOT want to miss!

Find more information on the episode HERE

Direct download: HO379_Star_Wars_Rise_of_Skywalker.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:35pm PDT
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What were your entertainment highlights of 2019?

On this special of The Hollywood Outsider podcast, it is time to say goodbye to the year! Though we have one more episode planned for next week, this is our last regular-esque episode of the show. And for it, we review Jumanji: The Next Level, 6 Underground, discuss Richard Jewell and The Garden Left Behind as well as our thoughts on HBO’s Watchmen finale, and then we close the year with our thoughts on the best this year had to offer.

After our goodbyes, we have attached our anniversary episode of Remake This Movie RIGHT from earlier this year. To celebrate Star Wars week, enjoy as Aaron and friends debate the best way to remake The Phantom Menace in proper fashion.

For two decades, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace has, much like the Empire, lay in hiding while waiting for the right time to strike. Midi-chlorians, Trade Federations, and Jar Jar Binks have kept this series from its own potential for far too long. Since Disney seems to be in no hurry to correct this wrong, it is left up to our Cinematic Architects to roll up our sleeves and return to work: We’re going to Remake Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace RIGHT!

Clips selected from 1999’s Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace.

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 31:02) Reviews: Jumanji: The Next Level, 6 Underground, Richard Jewell, The Garden Left Behind, Watchmen
  • (31:03 – 57:15) Goodbye 2019
  • (57:16– 2:07:46) Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace - Remake This Movie RIGHT
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to bonus content, including Patreon exclusive podcast content, by visiting Patreon.com/TheHollywoodOutsider.
  • This month's Patreon-exclusive Bad Movie Night focuses on SOLO - A Star Wars Story, while last month's focused on Taking Lives and featured an exclusive interview with writer Jon Bokenkamp
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO378_Goodbye_2019_Remake_Phantom_Menace.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:47am PDT
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What were your favorite films and television shows of the 2010s?

On this week's episode of The Hollywood Outsider podcast, we are discussing a decade's worth of film and television content. We know - it's a lot. Reflecting on the changes in entertainment over this past decade in film and television, our top 10 films and TV shows that released 2010-2019, our favorite entertainers, writers, and directors of the decade, experiences, and much more. So strap in, because we're about to go through a wealth of entertainment history!

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 29:54) Reflecting on a Decade in Film and Television
  • (29:55 – 1:23:45) Best Films of the 2010s
  • (1:23:46 – 1:57:05) Best Television Series of the 2010s
  • (1:57:06– 2:23:56) Best Experiences and Surprises | Best of Decade Awards | Listener Top 10 for Movies and TV 
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to bonus content, including Patreon exclusive podcast content, by visiting Patreon.com/TheHollywoodOutsider.
  • Recent Patreon-exclusive Bad Movie Night episodes on Taking Lives will feature an exclusive interview with writer Jon Bokenkamp and also SOLO - A Star Wars Story
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO377_2010s_Decade_in_Film_and_TV.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:24am PDT
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It's the 2019 HOliday Podcast Special!

Every year, we love to celebrate the holiday season with our listeners, and there is no better way to do that than with our 6th Annual Holiday Special!

It all started with a random idea, as Aaron and Scott were big fans of holiday specials, yet podcasts seemed to skip over the idea completely. Therefore, we decided we can do whatever we want here at The Hollywood Outsider, so let’s create our own tradition and the Annual Holiday Special was born!

Every year we do a little something different, so this year we're taking our Movie Battle Royale and sprinkling some Christmas magic on it for a Santa Battle Royale. That's right, who will survive as the best Saint Nick to EVER grace our screens? Only one way to find out.

That’s not all, oh no. We also talk about our standards on when decorating can begin, the best holiday movie of the last decade, and the best holiday TV episode of the last decade. The Christmas spirit kicks into overdrive as we open up and share our personal memories of the holiday season, stories that remind us of Christmas. And no holiday special would be complete without a visit from the big man himself, so get ready as Santa Claus drops by the studio to tell us just how wrong (or right) we are all throughout the episode!

With a special game from Amanda, Santa in his sleigh, Scott’s annual Christmas Poem, and a lot of fun for everyone – This is the one podcast you don’t want to miss this holiday season!

Direct download: HO_2019_Holiday_Special.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:58pm PDT
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Director Tara Wood wastes no time introducing us to her intentions with QT8: The First Eight; this is – first and foremost – a celebration of the works of Quentin Tarantino. It is an important anecdote to note, because if you were hoping for a shockingly tawdry expose plunging into Tarantino’s childhood – ripe with family secrets explaining his fascination with the criminal underbelly, gimps, and a vernacular so profane it might make Richard Pryor blush – then prepare for disappointment. Tara Wood, like so many of us, is a fan.

Instead, QT8 takes us on a journey through the past 21 years of Tarantino’s filmography, from Reservoir Dogs to The Hateful Eight, and specifically acts as our guide through the creation and release of those films. How he turned his residuals from The Golden Girls into a feature film career, his inspirations and motivations, most of all his unrivaled knowledge of cinema history.

On this special episode, director Tara Wood discusses the intricacies of getting her film made, assembling an exciting cast of actors of Tarantino's films (including Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Michael Madsen, Diane Kruger, and many more), how she chose to elaborate on Harvey Weinstein's involvement and Uma Thurman's ill-fated stunt, and why she chose Tarantino to profile. If you're a fan of Quentin Tarantino, this is one interview and film you won't want to miss!

Read our full review of the film HERE
QT8: The First Eight releases on VOD December 3, 2019

Direct download: Tara_Wood_QT8_The_First_Eight.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:54am PDT
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Anna, Elsa,and Olaf search out the origins of Elsa's magical powers by journeying to an enchanted land in Frozen 2. Hardened writer Lloyd Vogel is assigned to profile Tom Hanks' Mr. Rogers for an article on heroes, and Lloyd learns about forgiveness along the way in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. And Daniel Craig leads an astounding ensemble cast in Rian Johnson's clever mystery, Knives Out. All three films are reviewed, spoiler-free, on this latest episode of The Hollywood Outsider podcast!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: Knives_Out_Frozen_2_Mr_Rogers.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:47am PDT
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What movies are you most excited for this holiday season?

On this special episode of The Hollywood Outsider podcast, it’s our Holiday Movie Preview 2019! Every wide release for the remainder of the year is on tap as we debate the best and worst of the upcoming season. From Knives Out, 21 Bridges, and Frozen 2, to Jumanji: The Next Level, Cats, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and everything in between! Not only theatrical, but we also offer several streaming originals you won’t want to miss in the overstuffed holiday season.

Also, Disney Plus has finally arrived! With new original series such as The Mandalorian, Encore, and The World According to Jeff Goldblum; and original films such as Lady and the Tramp and Noelle, as well as a catalog ranging from Disney Classics to Star Wars to Marvel to Pixar and so much more - the biggest bullet in the streaming war has officially been fired. We also review Last Christmas and QT8: The First Eight, as well as our news roundup, and more!

If you want to write a service person this holiday season as Amanda discussed in this episode, please send your letters to:
AFSP
Attn: Amanda Sink
PO Box 178
Roscoe, IL 61073

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO375_HOliday_Movie_Preview_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:15am PDT
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Do you feel our nostalgia for classics causes us to be TOO respectful of these films?

On this week's podcast, instead of a typical topic of the week, we field several intriguing listener questions and topics. From the aforementioned debate on if we're too nostalgic to where the film business is headed after 2019, movies to describe our dream lives, why some franchises get stale and others do not, to what is the funniest nude scene in film. There's a lot here to cover, and it's a lot of fun.

Also this week: reviews of Doctor Sleep, His Dark Materials, Terminator: Dark Fate (along with the future of the franchise), and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO374_Respecting_Classics_Doctor_Sleep_Terminator.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:28pm PDT
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Have we finally reached the PEAK of television - the best it is and will ever be?

With streaming platforms and content being announced every day, how does today's television rank with history? Is this the best it'll ever be or could it be better? A conversation centered on the topic of television at its height, hosts Aaron, John, and Amanda talk about their thoughts on this and so much more on this week's episode of The Hollywood Outsider Podcast.

Also this week: news roundup, Stump the HO makes a return, reviews of Dolemite is My Name, The Wrong Todd, Making Waves and much more.

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 21:54) News Roundup | Stump the HO
  • (21:55 – 44:09) Reviews: Dolemite is My Name, The Wrong Todd, Making Waves | Upcoming Releases
  • (44:10 – 1:17:18) From The Outside In: Has Television Peaked?
  • (1:17:19 – 1:28:05) Recommendations | Closing
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to bonus content, including Patreon exclusive podcast content, by visiting Patreon.com/TheHollywoodOutsider.
  • Next month's Patreon-exclusive Bad Movie Night on Taking Lives will feature an exclusive interview with writer Jon Bokenkamp
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO373_Have_We_Arrived_At_Peak_TV.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:09am PDT
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What are your rules for needing a sequel?

This past weekend, another crop of sequels hit theaters with Maleficent 2 and Zombieland: Double Tap. One movie fans have clamored for a sequel for the past decade, and the other had crickets chirping when you mentioned another chapter. So what determines when a sequel should get made? Is it always just success? Shouldn't there be more to it?

On this week's episode of The Hollywood Outsider, we debate when a sequel SHOULD be made. And in following the spirit of Zombieland, we're going to handle this via our own collection of rules, this time those rules that are necessary to green-lighting a proper sequel.

Also this week: news roundup, another round of Movie Innuendo, reviews of HBO's Watchmen and Zombieland: Double Tap, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO372_Rules_to_making_a_sequel.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:49am PDT
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What is the scariest movie in history?

Every Halloween, fans around the world debate the scariest moments and characters in entertainment. Those scenes that leave fans terrified of a finger-knifed murderer haunting their dreams or a masked boogeyman terrorizing their neighborhood. We each have our own life experiences which feed our fears, but what singular movie is truly the greatest of them all?

On this week's episode of The Hollywood Outsider, we return to one of our favorite segments as we decide, once-and-for-all, what the is the BEST! Could it be The Exorcist, or possibly Poltergeist? Could A Nightmare on Elm Street out-slash The Blair Witch Project? Is Paranormal Activity more ghastly (and ghostly) than The Ring? Do exploding stomachs out-scare the horrific haunting that takes place in The Conjuring? Find out the winner with our Scariest Movie Battle Royale!

Also this week: a news roundup, reviews of Gemini Man and El Camino, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO371_Scariest_Movie_Battle_Royale.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:16am PDT
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What popular character do you wish there was an alternative take on?

With JOKER taking over theaters worldwide, we decided this was a prime time to debate whether or not it is ever acceptable to deviate from the source material and offer an alternative take on a popular character. Many people find this to be sacrilege, to even consider changing the motives or backstory of a firmly established character. But what if someone has a brilliant idea? Should they be hindered from realizing their vision simply because we're reluctant to change?

After our normal show, we dive into the film itself, JOKER. For months, media outlets have been speculating and predicting various outcomes of the release to this Joaquin Phoenix starring take on the Clown Prince of Crime. No Batman, only Joker. Does it live up to the hype? Is this a direction we could use more of? We discuss the film in its entirety with our JOKER spoilercast.

Also this week: a news roundup, John offers up a movie everyone seems to hate yet he loves with his "HOT TAKE", and more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO370_Alternative_Takes_and_JOKER.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:59am PDT
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Was 1999 the greatest year in movies?

Two decades ago, an absolutely hella fly year in entertainment took hold in 1999. Classics like The Matrix, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, The Sixth Sense, The Mummy, The Blair Witch Project, and Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me hit theaters. Not to be outdone, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, Angel, ER, Friends, Touched By An Angel, and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit took over our television sets. It was a prime time for entertainment.

Much has changed since then, but what is even more interesting is how much remains the same. For this special episode, we’re not only going to look back at the year in film and television – complete with commercials and Breaking News segments direct from the year itself – we are going to settle the longstanding debate on if 1999 truly IS the greatest year in movie history! With the magic of technology and time travel, we hope you enjoy yet another in our annual series of Hollywood Outsider Time Capsule podcasts.

Welcome back to 1999!

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 37:48) Opening | 1999 Related Movie and TV Discussion
  • (37:49 – 46:43) What's This Movie | In Memoriam | The Top 10 of 1999 in Film and TV
  • (46:44 – 1:30:40) From The Outside In: 1999 - A Year In Movies And Television
  • (1:30:41 – 1:41:51) 1999 Sing-Out | Closing
  • Listen to our previous Time Capsule episodes for 1987, 1988, and 1997
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to bonus content, including Patreon exclusive podcast content, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO369_1999_Year_in_Movies_and_TV.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:48am PDT
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What life skills have you learned from movies and television?

The Karate Kid inspired millions to stand up to their bullies. You know what else it did? It taught people useful tools like waxing on, waxing off, and using chopsticks. Countless movies and TV shows have taught us so much over the years that it might be inconceivable to identify any one specific lesson we learned. But we're going to try anyway.

On this week's episode of The Hollywood Outsider, original host Brian Williams returns to debate the crucial life lessons we've learned from years of watching movies and TV shows. From our childhoods to the ever present, from social to dating to survival skills, it's all on tap for a very fun discussion on the parents that lived inside our screens.

Also this week: a news roundup, we discuss the emergence of Downton Abbey, and fan favorite "Sylvester Stallone" drops by to discuss and review Rambo: Last Blood with Aaron personally.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO368_Life_Skills_Rambo_Downton_Abbey.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:01am PDT
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On this special episode, Tony Moran - the Michael Myers in John Carpenter's Halloween - stopped by to discuss working on that film, its legacy, and even clears up the confusion with Nick Castle's Shape. It's an interview any fan of Halloween will love!

 

Direct download: Interview_Halloween_Tony_Moran.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:30am PDT
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Want to know what new TV shows to watch this Fall?

It's time for our Fall TV preview 2019, including our most anticipated new and returning shows on the Fall television schedule. TV has evolved so much, and there are so many options, it becomes overwhelming every year to know what we should be spending our time on. Therefore we rolled up our sleeves, jumped in the water, and pulled out some of the best – and worst – that television has to offer. The Morning Show, The Mandalorian, Evil, Watchmen, His Dark Materials, The Witcher, and so many more shows are discussed and dissected on our annual plunge into the biggest season for television.

Also this week: MoviePass says goodbye, reviews of Hustlers and Unbelievable, a game of What Would've Happened, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO367_Fall_TV_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:01am PDT
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Have movies ever forced you to face your fears?

What are you afraid of? Slashers in the woods? Bees? Spiders? Clowns? Do you willingly seek out movies or TV shows that showcase these fears, or avoid them like a Ritchie dodges Paul Bunyan? On this week's From The Outside In topic, we spin off of IT into a discussion on when movies forced us to throw away childish things and face our own innate fears head on, for better or worse. And why it is that movies can sometimes help with this trauma.

Also this week, twenty-seven years after their first encounter with the terrifying Pennywise, the Losers Club have grown up and moved away, forgetting everything that happened the first time around. When they each receive a phone call from Mike saying Pennywise is back in Derry, they all reunite to confront their fears and destroy Pennywise once and for all. After our normal show, Wayne Henderson from Castle Rock Zone (and our IT Remake This Movie RIGHT episode) joins Aaron and Amanda to drop down into the sewers and discuss the conclusion to Stephen King's magnum opus, IT: Chapter Two.

Also this week: a news roundup, Face/Off gets a reboot and we offer our favorite duos, and our spoiler-free reviews of Freaks.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO366_Facing_Movie_Fears_and_IT_Chapter_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:45pm PDT
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As we take the week off, here are three of our most popular topics from earlier this year: Television's most unappreciated supporting characters, our Stephen King Movie Battle Royale, and TV crossovers we need. 

First up, from Episode 351: We discuss the most unappreciated supporting characters on television, as well as what unappreciated even means to us. From shows like Fringe, Sons of Anarchy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and many others, we debate why we love these respective characters and the actors who portray them, as well as why we think audiences never quite appreciated them.

Next, we head to Episode 347: We take a look at the movie adaptations of arguably the greatest horror author in history, Stephen King. For several decades now, both readers and audiences have been terrified by the works of Stephen King, in all forms of entertainment. As with anything, not all of his adaptations click, and occasionally the results are scarier than the source material. But those that do, have become classic films that have horrified generations. Because we love King, we left it to our listeners to decide the final eight films with which we’d handle our latest Movie Battle Royale, and the nominees are all great in their own way: Pet Sematary, The Mist, Misery, Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, Stand By Me, IT (2017), The Shining. But which of them is the greatest Stephen King adaptation of them all? Find out on our Movie Battle Royale!

Finally, we head to Episode 346: We take a look at that weirdly connective phenomena which is known as the “TV crossover”. Networks have utilized these for years as examples as to how to sell their television shows to people who might not be watching them: Mulder and Scully went to COPS, Angela Lansbury headed to Magnum P.I., and the CW combines an entire DC universe once a year. These events can often be nothing more than publicity stunts, but often times they create something beautiful. And we’re going to throw our two cents in the mix, crossing over TV shows to create several brand new properties! Oh, we have some ideas.

Direct download: Best_of_HO_2019_Vol_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:30am PDT
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What were your favorite moments in entertainment from this past summer?

A summer full of movies and TV shows are in the bag, so how was it? Many people have complained that this season has been overrun by sequels and franchise films, was it really that bad though? Or are moviegoers suffering from too much awesome? We’re about to find out as we break down the best (and worst) this season had to offer with our 2019 Summer Entertainment Awards!

We debate the summer of 2019 at length – where it stood, what was lacking, what caught our eye on television, and even our own favorite summer film or television experiences. Avengers: Endgame, Hobbs and Shaw, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Annabelle Comes Home, The Boys, Stranger Things, and much more are discussed on this annual special episode.

Discussed on this episode of The Hollywood Outsider Movie and TV Podcast:

  • Where does this summer end up, overall or vs last year
  • Best and worst summer movie experiences
  • Is summer still the biggest season for movies?
  • Summer TV standouts

HO Award Categories
Most Memorable Scene of the Summer
Best Overall Line
Best Summer Viewing Experience (home or theater)
Worst Summer Viewing Experience (home or theater)
The Head-Slam-Against-A-Wall scene (worst or most nonsensical)
Best Action or Stunt Sequence
Best Use of CGI / Special Effects
The Darwin Award | Most Idiotic or Annoying Character
Best Supporting Character
Biggest Badass
Most Engaging Actor of the Summer
Most Disappointing Property
Most Original Premise
Box Office Top 10
Top 5 Summer Properties
Listener Top 10

Direct download: HO365_2019_Summer_Entertainment_Awards.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:36pm PDT
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It's time for the 8th Anniversary of The Hollywood Outsider podcast!

Back in June, we put together one of our most memorable events since we started this podcast: The 2019 Hollywood Outsider Cruise! To celebrate our 8th year, for one entire week, each host since our inception (Aaron Peterson, Scott Clark, Brian Williams, John Davenport, Amanda Sink, and even Justin Macumber in spirit) gathered with dozens of friends and listeners on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas for a week-long excursion of fun and amazing memories. We had numerous gatherings and outings on the ship, and we also had a special, live recording! 

For this episode of our show, we're taking you on the ship with us, presenting you with the live recording of the actual gathering of every host as we reminisce, recollect, and most of all reflect on what it has been like to be part of the show. Whether you're a new listener or have been here since the beginning, this is a lighthearted and jovial time you won't want to miss...and it's delivered to you straight from international waters!  

Be sure to come back next week for our 2019 Summer Entertainment Awards!

 

Direct download: HO364_HOllywood_Outsider_Anniversary_Special.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am PDT
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Do you remember the first time one of your childhood heroes came back to life?

Maybe it was first seeing Michael Bay's Transformers, and realizing modern technology can bring Optimus Prime roaring back to life. Or perhaps it was witnessing either Obi-Wan or Luke Skywalker returning to screens after decades away. Could it be Ghostbusters, or My Little Pony, or even the Power Rangers as new life was flushed through them with new creative minds behind the camera? Or could it have been seeing a scruffy archeologist back for more whip-cracking adventure spanning multiple continents?

On this week's From The Outside In topic, we take a cue from Dora the Explorer's return and take a look at those moments when our own childhood heroes are sprung back to life. Not all of these resurgences went as smoothly as we would have hoped, yet that does not take away from the excitement we felt as we all approached opening day or the first time a new episode hit the airwaves. Our favorites, the ones that crushed our dreams, and maybe even one or two that had us questioning our own childhood memories.

Also this week: a news roundup, The Hunt becomes the latest casualty in an ages old issue, MoviePass was shadier than we even knew, and our spoiler-free reviews of Good Boys, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, and Dora and the Lost City of Gold.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO363_Childhood_Heroes.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:19am PDT
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Michael Pressman has been a filmmaker for decades, navigating the Hollywood system wearing various creative hats. Most notably, Michael has directed film classics such as Boulevard Nights, Some Kind of Hero, Doctor Detroit, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze. As well as the best in television with projects ranging from Picket Fences to Justified to Law and Order to Sneaky Pete to his current work in Chicago Med. 

On this exclusive interview, Aaron sat down with Michael to discuss his versatile career, working with legends like Richard Pryor and Dan Aykroyd, and how television continues to change. 

Find more info at https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/

Direct download: Michael_Pressman_Interview.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:09am PDT
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What makes a great buddy action duo?

Throughout history, actors have been paired up in an effort to double up on fanbases, bringing in a larger audience to watch these heroes take on the evil in the world while quips fly between them. It's a tale as old as time. But why do audiences love these bickering blowhards so much? What is it about a pair of bickering action heroes that enrapture audiences for sequel upon sequel, franchise after franchise?

On this week's From The Outside In topic, we take a look at a sub-genre: the buddy action duo. With Fast and Furious unleashing their first spin-off in this very genre with Hobbs and Shaw, it seemed the perfect time to examine the intricacies of these films. Yin and yang, banding together to take down some sadistic bad guy while spectacularly blowing shit up. Usually they're cops or some type of anti-hero. Why do we love them, and who did it the best?

Also this week: a news roundup, a new game called What Would've Happened?, and our spoiler-free reviews of Hobbs and Shaw and Velocipastor. Come back next week as we discuss TV anti-heroes!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO362_Buddy_Action_Duos.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:47pm PDT
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What Constitutes a Classic Film and What Do We Miss About Them?

Any movie buff worth their salt is familiar with the term 'classic film', yet that term carries a completely different meaning for each and every fan. Does classic mean from the '60s or before? Do movies from the '80s and '90s qualify as classics?

On this week's From The Outside In topic, we discuss the concept of classic films and what defines them for us. We also debate what we miss about these films, and especially what we don't. Inspired by Once Upon A Time In Hollywood's time capsule approach to storytelling, we decided there is no better time to jump down this rabbit hole.

Speaking of Hollywood, after our normal show we open up Quentin Tarantino's latest film and debate if the choices Tarantino made here were warranted. Much has been written on this latest film, about the performances of Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, as well as Tarantino's penchant for revisionist history, and as fans of the film we felt it deserved proper attention. So be sure to stick around for our Once Upon A Time In Hollywood spoiler discussion.

Also this week: a news roundup, how much we should pay for streaming channels, our spoiler-free review of Amazon Prime's The Boys, and much more. Come back next week for our next topic, Buddy Action Duos, and our review of Hobbs and Shaw!

Discussed on this episode

 

Direct download: HO361_Classic_Films_and_Once_Upon_A_TIme_In_HOllywood.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am PDT
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Heather, Josh, and Mike are wannabe documentarians who head to Maryland on a mission to decipher the legend of The Blair Witch. The three went into the woods for a 2 day hike to find this local urban legend, and one year after they disappeared, their footage was found. This movie was that footage.

As we release this, it is the 20th anniversary of The Blair Witch Project. If you find a list of the greatest horror films, you’ll find this now classic on that list. $250 million made worldwide, popularizing an entire genre and inspiring countless filmmakers across the globe, and even earned a Guiness world record for top budget to box office ratio – Blair Witch has earned the title of classic. And for the film’s 20th anniversary, we wanted to sit down and discuss the film and its legacy with one of the filmmakers directly responsible for it, Eduardo Sánchez.

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Direct download: Director_Eduardo_Sanchez_The_Blair_Witch_Project.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:30pm PDT
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The 50th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con 2019 has officially come to a close!

With the greatest event in popular geek culture finishing it's 2019 run, it's time for us to dive into the biggest news, panels, and trailers released at this year’s convention. Spotlighted on this special episode are details from Comic-Con 2019 on HBO's Watchmen, Westworld, and His Dark Materials, Star Trek's Picard, Snowpiercer as a TV series, Netflix's The Witcher, Walking Dead's move to theaters, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Top Gun 2, and so much more. If you're a fan of entertainment, THIS is the podcast for you!

Don't forget to listen to recent episodes like our Drive-In Theater discussion or our recent spoilercast on 2019's The Lion King. Come back next week for an interview with Blair Witch director, Eduardo Sanchez, and our thoughts on Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon A Time In Hollywood!

You can find all trailers discussed on this episode here, and the interviews Kyle Nolan referenced at NoReruns.net

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 48:59) Opening | Amanda's Panel: Watchmen, Game of Thrones panel, Marvel Phase 4
  • (49:00 – 1:10:54) Kyle Nolan - Man on the Street Report - NoReruns.net
  • (1:10:55 – 1:31:07) John's Panel: Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Star Trek: Picard, Battle of the Planets and Grimjack, Dark Crystal, His Dark Materials
  • (1:31:08 – 1:53:26) Aaron's Panel: Snowpiercer, The Orville, The Witcher, Terminator with Top Gun: Maverick trailer, Westworld Season 3, Walking Dead: The Movie  | Closing
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO360_Comic_Con_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:42am PDT
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On this special episode, Aaron and Amanda sit down to discuss the ups and downs of Jon Favreau's attempt to reimagine The Lion King for 2019's audiences. From the animation to the voices to the singing that combines it all - take a listen to our latest spoilercast!

Direct download: The_Lion_King_Spoilercast.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:14am PDT
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Do you love drive-in movie theaters?

If you're a movie buff who has been on this planet for any length of time, then you know what a drive-in movie means. Cars full of family and friends, loaded up with chairs, drinks, and snacks, all parking in the middle of a gigantic lot in order to indulge in a double-feature of cinematic goodness under the stars. Many of us have been going to drive-in movies since we were children, and passing that experience down to our children. But in this day and age of hustle, does the average moviegoer have a desire to even watch films this way?

On this week's From The Outside In topic, we discuss drive-in theaters and whether or not there is still a place for them in today's environment of bombastic entertainment that demands a crisp screen and state-of-the-art sound system, as well as our favorite memories of drive-ins of the past.

Also this week: a news roundup, thoughts on characters randomly breaking into song, our spoiler-free reviews of Veronica Mars' Hulu revival, Crawl, Point Blank, and much more. Come back next week for our 2019 Comic-Con Wrap-Up!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO359_Drive_In_Theaters_Veronica_Mars.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:34pm PDT
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What are the most quotable movies in history?

If you're a fan of entertainment, then odds are you randomly drop movie or TV quotes as breadcrumbs to identify your fellow die-hards. The devoted amongst us love to utilize the work of far better writers than ourselves to broaden conversations on a daily basis, occasionally even making new friends in the process. "I'll be back", "Ouch", "You can't handle the truth!" - these are just a few of the quotes people use all the time, often without even realizing they're doing it.

On this week's From The Outside In topic, we discuss why it is we do this practice of using established pop-culture language to handle the conversing for us, as well as what our favorite movie quotes are, as well as the movies we most often find ourselves referencing seemingly every day of our lives.

Also this week: a news roundup, Netflix wages war on smoking after the internet protests, our spoiler-free reviews of Stranger Things Season 3, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Midsommar, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO358_Most_Quotable_Movies.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:39pm PDT
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As we take the week off, here are four of our most popular topics from earlier this year: Cult Films, Building a Perfect Found Footage Movie, Shipping Our Favorite Characters in Movies and TV, and Politically Incorrect Comedies.

First up, from Episode 338: We discuss the world of cult films. Specifically, what defines a movie as a “cult” film? Is it a fluke, or perhaps the right material at the right time? Do popular films ever reach cult status? Why do films like Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Room carry on for decades, while thousands of other films disappear never to be heard from again? We tackle this, as well as what cult films defined us personally as Bill Fulkerson (director of Survival of the Film Freaks) joins in on a topic many of us debate on a daily basis.

Next, we head to Episode 341: Found footage is a subgenre in which all or a substantial part of the film is presented as if it were discovered film or video recordings. The events on screen are typically seen through the camera of one or more of the characters involved, often accompanied by their real-time, off-camera commentary. The footage may be presented as if it were “raw” and complete or as if it had been edited into a narrative by those who “found” it. We discuss the highs and lows of found footage, what works and what turns us off about the entire genre. We also each put together our personal takes on the genre itself and build a perfect found footage film.

Next, we head to Episode 340: The actual term “shipping” saw its origin around 1995 by fans of the TV show The X-Files, who believed the two main characters, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, should be or were engaged in a romantic relationship. They called themselves “relationshippers,” at first; then R’shipper, ‘shipper, and finally just shippers. The concept has spawned passionate fans of all types of media, resulting in everything from online arguments to full-on fan fiction. For this topic, we take a look at our favorite characters in both movies and television that we would love to see “get together”, as well as discuss the ones who finally have and might not have worked out as positively as we had hoped.

Finally, we come to Episode 343: Did you grow up on films like Airplane, Blazing Saddles, or There’s Something About Mary? Films that often made light of race, gender, sex, handicaps, and all other manners of things that shouldn’t be mocked? If you’re like us, you remember laughing at things that you knew, deep in your soul, were horrible to make light of. Yet, at the same time, these inappropriate outbursts of comedic inspiration broke down even the strongest composure, and even occasionally sparked a conversation that was previously too uncomfortable to have.  This topic revolves around politically incorrect comedies, and specifically if the concept of such is currently as dead as the western.

Discussed on this episode of The Hollywood Outsider Movie and TV Podcast:

Direct download: Best_of_HO_2019_Vol_1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:22pm PDT
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In an era of outrage, entitlement, and overwrought petitions, we wanted to spend one entire episode devoted to the joy of fandom. So for this special episode, we have a very open and candid discussion on the positivity and passion of fandom as we’ve experienced it. In hopes that this podcast will shine a light not on sensationalism in search of the next big outrage, but instead on the very fandom that binds us all together.

This podcast discusses a multitude of fan-related topics such as building communities, conventions, cosplay, the impact of fan reactions on storytellers, save TV campaigns, as well as several personal experiences directly related our various podcast endeavors.

We hope you find this discussion endearing and appreciative of fandom as a whole. For we're all fans too.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO357_Positivity_of_Fandom.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:00am PDT
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What is the greatest vacation themed movie in history?

It is officially Summer, and you know what that means: VACATION! All across the globe, people are planning or taking a long week to relax and unwind from the stresses of the world. Therefore, we decided this was a perfect opportunity for another Movie Battle Royale! This time, 8 films decided on by a listener poll - all with a vacation theme - are vying for the title of The Greatest in the known universe!

But which will it be? There are cases to be made for all of our finalists: Jaws, The Great Outdoors, Cabin in the Woods, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, EuroTrip, What About Bob, and the two-handed punch of National Lampoon's Vacation and sequel, Christmas Vacation. Any one of them could be a winner, so take a listen as we debate, argue, and vote our way to the winner.

Also this week: a news roundup, a review of Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, 1989's Batman turns 30, our spoiler-free review of the latest X-Men film, Dark Phoenix, and much more. Come back next week for a special episode centered around the positivity and passion of fandom.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO356_Vacation_Themed_MBR.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:59pm PDT
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What makes a great monster movie?

There is something uniquely special about walking into a movie and watching enormously overpowered beasts wreak absolute havoc and mayhem, occasionally even destroying a city or two in the process. It's exciting and cathartic. But why do we enjoy rooting for these gigantic beasties? What is it about these types of films and their wonton destruction that appeals to our basic human nature?

This week, we dive into the concept of monster movies, specifically what makes for a great one. We also debate what actually constitutes a monster movie - does Jason or Freddy count, and what about werewolves or vampires - and our favorite memories while watching them.

Also this week: a news roundup, reviews of Good Omens and Rocketman, a Disney version of Movie Innuendo, and then stick around after our normal show for a Godzilla: King of the Monsters spoilercast! Come back next week for a special episode centered around the positivity and passion of fandom.

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 17:10) Opening | News Roundup | Movie Innuendo
  • (17:11 – 34:06) Reviews: Good Omens, Rocketman | New Releases
  • (34:07 – 1:02:19) From The Outside In: What Makes A Great Monster Movie?
  • (1:02:20 – 1:31:58) Godzilla: King of the Monsters Spoilercast
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO355_Monster_Movies_Godzilla.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:38pm PDT
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When does fan outrage become entitlement?

Here are just a few of the thing fans have expressed outrage about recently: Star Wars: The Last Jedi was apparently so horrendous fans petitioned for a remake, fans petitioned to rehire James Gunn for Guardians 3 after Disney dumped him over Twitter issues (which Disney did, in fact, do), Sonic the Hedgehog had teeth that terrified fans and filmmakers took it to heart by pushing the film back to February 2020 to alter the design, once again fans petitioned for a new Batman after Robert Pattinson was cast in the role, and fans that didn’t care for the final season of Game of Thrones famously petitioned for a remake of the season to the tune of 1.5 million plus signatures and counting. Oh,  and to connect it all, they also demanded that Thrones creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss be banned from Star Wars.

Therefore, this week our topic revolves around this sometimes toxic and other times necessary aspect of fandom. Specifically, we debate when does fan outrage become nothing more than entitlement?

Also this week: a news roundup, reviews of Aladdin, Brightburn, Booksmart, Slasher Season 3, new releases, and much more. Come back next week for our topic, what makes a great monster movie, and Godzilla: King of the Monsters Spoilercast.

Discussed on this episode

 

Direct download: HO354_Aladdin_Brightburn_Booksmark_Fan_Entitlement.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:46pm PDT
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As Game of Thrones has completed its official journey through HBO's adaptation of George R. R. Martin's classic novels, A Song of Ice and Fire, it is time for us to venture back and discuss the final season of one of the most celebrated series in television history. On this special episode, we discuss the major happenings over the course of this final season, and debate what we loved or loathed about our favorite heroes and villains - and heroes that became villains - as they struggled to defeat the Army of the Undead, the Night King, Cersei, and themselves all in the pursuit of the ultimate symbol of power: the Iron Throne!

Unlike many podcasts, we will not be breaking things down chronologically. Instead, we're taking the story from The Great War that has been prophesied for years, all the way to the Last War. From Winterfell to Dragonstone to King’s Landing and back to The Wall – plus thoughts and awards on the complete series - it’s all here in this exciting Season 8 and complete series wrap-up podcast.

Jon, Daenerys, Cersei, Jamie, Tyrion, Bran the Broken, Sansa, Arya, Euron, Brienne, even The Hound! The gang’s all here, and we’re ready to tackle this season in the most cutthroat way possible. Take a listen as we break down the final season of one of the greatest TV series of all-time, Game of Thrones!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO353_Game_of_Thrones_S8_Series_Wrapup.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:55pm PDT
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Summer at the movies.

All of us that are entertainment fans love this time of year. The biggest movies, full of spectacle and big-screen excitement, always seem to land right here. Though times have changed and summer keeps getting bigger, that does not always mean it's getting better. So this week, we take a look back at how the summer movie experience has changed over the years.

More than just reflection, we are going to break down our discussion by decade: the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. How have our trips to the cinema changed over past several decades? Ticket prices have surged, sure. But there is so much more that begs to be remembered and discussed. So get your nostalgia goggles ready, we're going back in time!

Also this week: a news roundup, TV cancellations, our review of The Hustle, and a round of 'You Can Do It', where we each take a film we're not fond of and add a positive spin. Come back next week for our Game of Thrones Season 8 Spoilercast!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO352_How_Summer_Movies_Have_Changed.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:40pm PDT
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All of our favorite television shows have supporting actors we get behind: Jesse on Breaking Bad, Tyrion on Game of Thrones, Norm on Cheers, George Costanza on Seinfeld. Whenever you discuss the shows you love with friends, these are the supporting characters that will always float to the top of conversation. But what about the other supporting characters? Those that don't often find themselves on Best Of lists?

On this episode of The Hollywood Outsider podcast, we discuss the most unappreciated supporting characters on television, as well as what unappreciated even means to us. From shows like Fringe, Sons of Anarchy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and many others, we debate why we love these respective characters and the actors who portray them, as well as why we think audiences never quite appreciated them.

Also this week: a news roundup, spoilers forget the rules, directors are lashing out at critics, reviews of Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile and The Intruder, and much more. Come back next week for our discussion on How Summer Movies Have Changed!

More details at https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/

Discussed on this episode

 

Direct download: HO351_Unappreciated_TV_Supporting_Characters.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:39am PDT
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This week, Tony Stark, Captain America, and the rest of the team take on Thanos for one last shot to save half of humanity. On our special spoilercast, we look at the highs and lows of the final chapter in this portion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, stone by stone. And say goodbye to a few favorites. 

Read our full review and more at https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/

 

Direct download: HO350_Avengers_Spoilercast.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:19pm PDT
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2019 has finally arrived at the greatest point of every cinemaphile’s annual indulgence, the Summer movie season! But with so many films coming out at this time, how is any self-respecting fan supposed to know what to see when there are so many options available? We’re here to help with our latest episode: the Summer Movie Preview!

We discuss each month in detail; every major release, as well as our picks of the smaller independent titles. May, June, July, and August all receive their fair due as we elaborate and debate on over 50 titles coming out this summer. We also discuss some independent and streaming gems to look for this year, and reveal the Listener Top 10 Most Anticipated Films of Summer 2019.

Grab a pen and paper or your favorite app, because this is one episode you will want to take notes on. THIS is our 2019 Summer Movie Preview!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO349_Summer_Movie_Preview_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:37am PDT
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Lost, Breaking Bad, Battlestar Galactica, Dexter, Friends, etc. Hit shows have to eventually come to an end, and typically when they do, our expectations are high. We have endured this journey for years, and because of that, we each have a conclusion somewhere in the back of our minds. But when we finally reach that last episode, and anticipation has overtaken our own internal logic, how many TV shows actually end perfectly?

On this episode, we take a look at audience expectations on TV series finales. With Game of Thrones set to end in just a few weeks, millions of fans are gearing up for what they expect to be an amazing conclusion...but is that fair? Do the show-runners owe us a fantastic conclusion, or should they be allowed to tell the story as they see fit?

Speaking of Game of Thrones: after our normal show, be sure to listen to our new Patreon exclusive podcast covering the final season! We have released the first episode here to whet your appetite, and every week after until the finale, you will be treated to a new episode. Be sure to sign up to keep listening at Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider

Also this week: a news roundup, a listener asks us to rid the world of one actor each, review of Hellboy, and much more. Come back next week for our 2019 Summer Movie Preview!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO348_TV_Series_Finales.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:52am PDT
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Set in West Virginia, Back Fork takes a brutal look at the opioid crisis affecting millions of people every day. Josh Stewart stars as Waylon and A.J. Cook portrays Nida, a married couple dealing with an overwhelming family tragedy. When coping proves impossible, pills find their way into Waylon's life to dull the pain. When he finds himself in a place he never thought possible, Waylon is forced to face his inner demons or surrender to his addiction forever.

You’ve seen Josh Stewart in films like The Collector, The Dark Knight Rises, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, as well as numerous TV projects like Criminal Minds, Dirt, and most recently Shooter and as that viciously likable foe John Pilgrim in the final season of The Punisher.

Stewart is also a writer and director, and his first project, The Hunted, revolved around a pair of hunters trapped in the West Virginia mountains with an unseen force. With his latest film, Back Fork, he returns to West Virginia and takes on a much more serious horror: opioid addiction.

On this exclusive interview, we sit down with writer-director-star Josh Stewart as he discusses a myriad of topics including his career, why the story of Back Fork was an important one to share, and why he loves shooting in West Virginia. This is an enlightening interview with a rising talent you won't want to miss!

 

Back Fork is now available on VOD everywhere. Listen or read the full interview https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/

Direct download: Josh_Stewart_Back_Fork_Interview.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:52am PDT
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On this week's episode, we take a look at the movie adaptations of arguably the greatest horror author in history, Stephen King. For several decades now, both readers and audiences have been terrified by the works of Stephen King, in all forms of entertainment. As with anything, not all of his adaptations click, and occasionally the results are scarier than the source material. But those that do, have become classic films that have horrified generations.

Because we love King, we left it to our listeners to decide the final eight films with which we'd handle our latest Movie Battle Royale, and the nominees are all great in their own way: Pet Sematary, The Mist, Misery, Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, Stand By Me, IT (2017), The Shining. Which will end up as the greatest Stephen King adaptation of all-time?

Also this week: a news roundup, Amsterdam takes on 5D, a Stephen King iteration of Movie Innuendo, reviews of Pet Sematary and Shazam, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO347_Stephen_King_Movie_Battle_Royale.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:45pm PDT
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As Game of Thrones sets sail for their final season, we have arrived to wrap up the past as we discuss all of the comings and goings in Westeros during Season 7. On this special episode, we take the major happenings over the past 7 episodes and discuss what we loved or loathed about our favorite heroes and villains in the Seven Kingdoms.

Unlike many podcasts, we will not be breaking things down chronologically. Instead, we take on each territory as we inch toward The Great War that has been prophesized for years. From Dragonstone to the Citadel, From the Twins to winter finally hitting King’s Landing, from Winterfell to the destruction of The Wall – it’s all wrapped up in this exciting series recap.

Jon, Dany, Cersei, Jamie, Euron, Tyrion, Sansa, Arya, even The Hound! The gang’s all here, and we’re ready to tackle this season in the most cutthroat way possible. Take a listen to our Game of Thrones Season 7 Recap and Reactions Podcast!

Enter our Game of Thrones Season 8 contest at THIS LINK

Discussed on this episode of The Hollywood Outsider Movie and TV Podcast:

  • Each territory covered on the series, and the happenings of the characters within each
  • The show has greatly sped up travel time, did it affect your enjoyment?
  • The special effects this past season as situations amp up
  • Is the show maintaining its strength now that the showrunners, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss are in full command and George R. R. Martin's work remains unfinished?
  • Best and least favorite moments
  • Wants, needs, and predictions for Game of Thrones to come
  • Email us your thoughts on the episode, answer our ‘What’s This Movie?’, or suggest a topic to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com or leave us a message at 818-814-6246
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider by visiting Patreon.com/TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: Game_of_Thrones_Season_7_Recap_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:12am PDT
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On this week's episode, we take a look at that weirdly connective phenomena which is known as the "TV crossover". Networks have utilized these for years as examples as to how to sell their television shows to people who might not be watching them: Mulder and Scully went to COPS, Angela Lansbury headed to Magnum P.I., and the CW combines an entire DC universe once a year. These events can often be nothing more than publicity stunts, but often times they create something beautiful. And we're going to throw our two cents in the mix, crossing over TV shows to create several brand new properties! Oh, we have some ideas.

At the end of our show, we then tackle Jordan Peele's latest opus, US. A film which follows Lupita Nyong'o as Adelaide, a wife and mother headed back with her family to Santa Cruz, a place where tragedy struck her decades earlier. As they grow closer to the beach where everything happened, Adelaide begins to sense things are very wrong. When four strangers arrive that night in the driveway of their remote home, the terror of US begins to unfold.

A follow-up to his wonderful debut, Get Out, Jordan Peele again tackles societal discussion under the guise of horror to mixed results. Take a listen as we dive deep into Peele's complex mythology and debate what works and what doesn't in our US spoilercast!

Also this week: a news roundup, Apple TV+ is announced for the Fall, and The Matrix turns 20 years old.

Find more info at 

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 22:49) Opening | News Roundup, Apple TV+ Announced
  • (22:50 – 50:11) Significant Anniversary: The Matrix Turns 20 | New Releases
  • (50:12 – 1:17:08 From The Outside In: Television Crossover Ideas
  • (1:17:08 - 2:06:33) Jordan Peele's US Spoilercast
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO346_TV_Crossovers_and_US_Spoilercast.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29am PDT
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The South by Southwest Festival is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Every year, thousands of fans arrive in downtown Austin, TX to partake in a couple of weeks of great music, technology, and film. For this special episode of The Hollywood Outsider, we take you along for our annual deep dive into the heart of the film festival portion, and even further into the films themselves.

Over the course of nine days, the 2019 SXSW Film Festival screened over 130 features, many from first-time filmmakers (consisting of World Premieres, North American Premieres, and US Premieres), shorts, virtual reality exhibits, title design, and other works. These films were selected from thousands of overall submissions, and – while we can’t see them all – we have a nice sample to share with you of what came out of this stellar lineup of independent films. Over 20 films are on our docket this year (see below for a complete list), and we review them all…with more than a few surprises along the way.

So sit back and relax. You’re about to experience South by Southwest from the comfort of your own home.

Find complete details on the movies discussed at https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/sxsw-2019-south-by-southwest-345/

Direct download: HO345_SXSW_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:35pm PDT
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On this week's episode, we take a look a several superhero movies that we feel didn't quite work. Was it a moment, or an entire script that broke that respective film? Whatever it was, can it be fixed? From there, we offer a few minor tweaks that possibly could have saved a franchise or too. That's right, we're going to fix a superhero movie!

At the end of our show, we then wade into the waters of Marvel's latest attempt at launching another hero: Captain Marvel! Brie Larson stars as Carol Danvers, who essentially wakes up unaware of who she is, or why she has so many powers. The film follows Carol's journey of self-discovery as she partners up with Sam Jackson's Nick Fury to, you know, save the planet. We discuss Marvel's latest introduction of a major character, what works and what doesn't, and where we want Captain Marvel to go next.

Also this week: Review of Triple Threat, listener questions, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO344_Fix_Superhero_Movies_and_Captain_Marvel.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:00pm PDT
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Did you grow up on films like Airplane, Blazing Saddles, or There's Something About Mary? Films that often made light of race, gender, sex, handicaps, and all other manners of things that shouldn't be mocked? If you're like us, you remember laughing at things that you knew, deep in your soul, were horrible to make light of. Yet, at the same time, these inappropriate outbursts of comedic inspiration broke down even the strongest composures, and even occasionally sparked a conversation that was previously too uncomfortable to have.  Our topic for this week revolves around politically incorrect comedies, and specifically if the concept of such is currently as dead as the western.

Then we turn our focus to the Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF), which takes place annually in the city of Beloit, Wisconsin. Running for 10 days, typically at the end of Feb or the beginning of March, the festival plays 100+ films from over 25 different countries ranging from narrative features, to documentaries, to shorts, and even features a showdown between Illinois and Wisconsin filmmakers.

The films screen in a variety of local venues, so not only is it a festival where a vast assortment of films can be found, but it also supports the local economy and involves residents working as volunteers as well. On this episode of The Hollywood Outsider, we turn a spotlight to BIFF and our thoughts on the festival, as well as reviews for several of the films we screened there.

Also this week: Trailer spoilers rage on again, Steven Spielberg takes on Netflix, a special guest drops by for a major announcement, our review of A Madea Family Funeral, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO343_Politically_Incorrect_Comedies_and_BIFF.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:35pm PDT
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For our first Movie Battle Royale of 2019, we decided to climb aboard the Oscar train and look at some of the Best Picture winners of decades past. If you took a single decade, and looked at all 10 winners, which film would stand the test of time to be crowned the greatest film of that respective decade?

So this week, we’re discussing the Best Picture winners of the 2000s. A decade ripe with classics, but only 10 verified winners of The Academy Award’s top prize. Previous guest Scott Calgaro joins us to debate and decide on which one film rises above the others to win the title of the Best Picture of the aughts! ! Will it be Gladiator, Slumdog Millionaire, The Hurt Locker, Crash, Chicago, A Beautiful Mind, Million Dollar Baby, No Country for Old Men, Gladiator, The Departed, or Lord of the Rings: Return of the King? You’re about to find out.

Also this week: Rotten Tomatoes comes to their senses with audience scores; A Quiet Place 2, Escape Room 2, and The Haunting of Hill House Season 2(now known as The Haunting of Bly Manor) are all happening; and we discuss our reactions to this year's Oscar ceremony. From the winners, to the shocks, to the ceremony itself.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO342_Oscars_Movie_Battle_Royale_2019.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:50pm PDT
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Found footage is a subgenre in which all or a substantial part of the film is presented as if it were discovered film or video recordings. The events on screen are typically seen through the camera of one or more of the characters involved, often accompanied by their real-time, off-camera commentary. The footage may be presented as if it were "raw" and complete or as if it had been edited into a narrative by those who "found" it.

While it wasn’t the first, The Blair Witch Project is the movie that truly launched found footage into the stratosphere, as many people believed that these “TAPES” were real, and that these kids had disappeared in the woods. Other films like Paranormal Activity and Cloverfield took the genre to varying heights, and countless others proved that it was the cheapest possible option to make a movie on an indie budget. Like any genre, found footage is stacked with pluses and minuses.

On this week's podcast, we discuss the highs and lows of found footage, what works and what turns us off about the entire genre. We also each put together our personal takes on the genre itself and build a perfect found footage film.

Also this week, Netflix and Marvel officially parts ways plus a slew of entertainment news. Reviews of How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World and Alita: Battle Angel, a peek at new releases, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO341_Build_Perfect_Found_Footage_Movie.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:22am PDT
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Shipping, initially derived from the word relationship, is the desire by fans for two or more fictional characters (in film, literature, television etc.) to be in a romantic relationship.

The actual term "shipping" saw its origin around 1995 by fans of the TV show The X-Files, who believed the two main characters, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, should be or were engaged in a romantic relationship. They called themselves "relationshippers," at first; then R'shipper, 'shipper, and finally just shippers.

The concept has spawned passionate fans of all types of media, resulting in everything from online arguments to full-on fan fiction. On this episode, we take a look at our favorite characters in both movies and television that we would love to see "get together", as well as discuss the ones who finally have and might not have worked out as positively as we had hoped.

Also this week, Shaft and Child's Play finally receive trailers, Avatar begins live-action production, and Superman is taken to task for his building relocation skills. Our feature this week is Discover An Actor's Gem, where we discuss an unheralded film in a favorite actor's filmography and why it deserves a watch. Reviews of Cold Pursuit, The LEGO Movie 2, The Man Who Killed Hitler and the Bigfoot, a peek at new releases, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO340_Shipping_Movie_TV_Characters.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:06pm PDT
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Television spin-offs are everywhere. Once a TV show garners success, an executive somewhere is trying to figure out a way to borrow a few of those characters, toss them into another setting, and see if they can duplicate those numbers. Often times, it crashes and burns. But there are many success stories along the way, including The Jeffersons, Young Sheldon, Benson, and Frasier. There have also been a few film characters spun off into their own successful shows, recently Cobra Kai completely redefined how many think of The Karate Kid. So this week, our hosts discuss the world of TV spin-offs, and even come up with several spin-off ideas they'd like to try themselves.

Also this week, The Batman has been a project with an excessive amount of speculation, and finally director Matt Reeves and current Batman Ben Affleck have elaborated on the details, Hobbs and Shaw's first glimpse of the Fast and Furious spin-off has hit, Y: The Last Man finally moves to series. Another round of Movie Innuendo arrives as we determine which lines in The LEGO Movie aren't quite as innocent as they seem. Reviews of Velvet Buzzsaw and Russian Doll, a peek at new releases, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO339_TV_Spinoffs_We_Need.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:23am PDT
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On this week's episode, we discuss the world of cult films. Specifically, what defines a movie as a "cult" film? Is it a fluke, or perhaps the right material at the right time? Do popular films ever reach cult status? Why do films like Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Room carry on for decades, while thousands of other films disappear never to be heard from again? We tackle this, as well as what cult films defined us personally as Bill Fulkerson (director of Survival of the Film Freaks) joins in on a topic many of us debate on a daily basis.

Also this week, TV show remakes are hitting overdrive as Starship Troopers, Resident Evil, and Child's Play all receive television reboots, Amazon offers big paydays at Sundance, and Universal retools their Dark Universe plans. Reviews of Polar and Wretch, a peek at new releases, another round of I Can't Believe We Thought That Was Cool where we ponder if Chasing Amy's antics would play to today's audiences, and much more.

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 21:36) Opening | News | I Can't Believe We Thought That Was Cool
  • (21:37 – 31:17) Reviews of Polar and Wretch | New Releases
  • (31:18 – 1:34:30) From The Outside In: Cult Films | How Does A Movie Become One and What It Even Means
  • (1:34:30 – 1:51:49) Listener Comments | Closing | Outtakes
  • Bill Fulkerson can also be heard on the Outside the Cinema podcast
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO338_Cult_Films.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:38am PDT
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On this week's episode, we dive into our 2019 Television EXTRAVAGANZA! We break down the most anticipated new TV shows of 2019, as well as our returning favorites.

We kick things off with the most anticipated TV releases. Titles such as The Passage, I Am the Night, Good Omens, Watchmen, Deadly Class, The Umbrella Academy, and a whole lot more. Troy Heinritz of The Blacklist Exposed joins us to

All of those titles are just the tip of the iceberg, as we also discuss Oscar nominations, our spoiler-free review of The Punisher Season 2, and more. Everything comes to a close as we break down M. Knight Shyamalan's latest opus, the conclusion of a trilogy which began with Unbreakable and Split, in Glass. David Dunn, Kevin Crumb, and Mr. Glass are each discussed as their character arcs culminate in a film almost two decades in the making!

We’re discussing over 20 new TV shows releasing in 2019 on this episode, so bring a notebook because we’re about to help you plan your entire year in entertainment!

Discussed on this episode

Direct download: HO337_2019_TV_Oscars_and_Glass.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:08pm PDT
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One of our most popular podcasts each year is our Movie Release EXTRAVAGANZA! On this year's episode, we break down the most anticipated movie releases of the entire year. And with 2019 in full swing, it’s finally time to look ahead at all of the exciting releases still to come in 2019!

We kick things off with the most anticipated film releases. Titles such as Star Wars: Episode IX, Toy Story 4, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, IT: Chapter Two, John Wick: Chapter 3, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, The Irishman, and a whole lot more.

All of those titles are just the tip of the iceberg, as we also discuss the Oscars going without a host for the first time in 20 years, Mission: Impossible getting two sequels, and reviews of The Upside and On the Basis of Sex.

We’re discussing over 30 new movies releasing in 2018 on this episode, so bring a notebook because we’re about to help you plan your entire year in entertainment!

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 17:45) Opening | Mission: Impossible earns two sequels, Spider-Man: Far From Home's trailer dropped, and Oscar goes without a host for the first time in 30 years
  • (17:46 – 1:03:59) The 2019 Audience Most Anticipated Movie Releases
  • (1:04:00 – 1:21:06) Host Most Anticipated Releases
  • (1:21:07 – 1:34:12) Reviews: The Upside and On the Basis of Sex | Closing | Outtakes
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’
  • Do your shopping via our Amazon Link!
Direct download: HO336_2019_Movie_Release_Extravaganza.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:50pm PDT
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On this episode of The Hollywood Outsider podcast, we revisit 2018 as we present the 2019 HO Awards for the best (and worst) we witnessed in film and television over the past year. From the continued explosion of quality content on TV and streaming services, to the implosion of mediocrity scattered about, to an overload of greatness both at home and in theaters – THESE are the only podcast awards you need to listen to!

Discussed on this episode

  • (0:00 – 13:36) Opening 
  • (13:37 – 56:55) Television Awards
  • (56:56 – 1:30:41) Film Awards
  • (1:30:42 – 1:37:21) Listener Awards | HO TV Series and Movie of the Year | Closing
  • Email topic suggestions or episode reactions to feedback@thehollywoodoutsider.com
  • Please support The Hollywood Outsider and gain immediate access to exclusive bonus content, including a BONUS monthly episode and Bad Movie Night, by visiting Patreon.com/ TheHollywoodOutsider
  • Be sure to join our Facebook Group
  • Join our Fantasy Movie League! Find our league, then use the password ‘buypopcorn’

2019 Categories:

TV

• Biggest TV News Story

• Favorite Supporting Character

• The Biggest Badass

• Favorite Actor

• Next MUST-SEE Series

• Best Single Moment

• Series You Finally Gave Up On

• Top 5 TV Shows of 2018

Movies

• Biggest News Story

• Best Line

• Best Specific Moment

• Best Use of a Worn Out Cliche or Plot

• Best Physical Effect or Stunt

• Best Use of CGI

• Best Supporting Character

• Best Badass

• Favorite Actor

• The Coherence Award – (little-seen or unheard of film)

• Worst Movie

• Top 10 Movies of 2018

 

 

Direct download: 2019_HO_Awards.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:12pm PDT
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