Franchise Detours
At Franchise Detours, we believe no movie series travels in a straight line. And through both standalone episodes or ongoing "mega-series," we aim -- one movie franchise at a time -- to explore the wild paths they tread through cinematic history.
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'Elvira: Mistress of the Dark' / 'Elvira's Haunted Hills' (feat. Kai Yaniz)
10/29/2024
'Elvira: Mistress of the Dark' / 'Elvira's Haunted Hills' (feat. Kai Yaniz)
Few characters capture the essence of camp and horror quite like Elvira. With her signature style and irreverent humor, Cassandra Peterson's sultry and sarcastic creation has reigned supreme as a perennial fan favorite. This beloved pop culture phenomenon even headlined two movies. As spooky season winds down, joins Franchise Detours to discuss 1988's Elvira: Mistress of the Dark and Elvira's Haunted Hills from 2001. We'll discuss how the character evolved from improv comedy into a global sensation, why Elvira's first movie still packs such a punch, and how she represents a type of stardom that has all but vanished in today's world. While Elvira: Mistress of the Dark emerged as a cult classic—following Elvira as she inherits a dilapidated mansion in a conservative town—Elvira's Haunted Hills is far more under-seen. But is this tribute to classic horror tropes set in the Carpathian Mountains worth digging up? Or should fans simply revisit Elvira's film debut? Give our chat a listen to find out.
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'Creed III' (feat. film critic Kevin the Critic)
10/20/2024
'Creed III' (feat. film critic Kevin the Critic)
It all ends here. After nearly five decades and nine films, the world of Rocky Balboa — and, by extension, Adonis Creed — comes to a close. Of course, there's still more in the works from these beloved fighters. But until we learn more about Creed IV's development or for Rocky fans, this marks the final round of our Rocky/Creed mega-series. joins us for our final punch, as we talk 2023's Creed III from star and first-time director Michael B. Jordan. We'll discuss how the movie sees Adonis' forge his own path, what new antagonist Damian Anderson (Jonathan Majors) brings to the franchise, and where we hope to see the Creed family saga go with the now-in-development fourth entry.
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'Creed II' (feat. Jason of Binge Movies)
10/11/2024
'Creed II' (feat. Jason of Binge Movies)
Congratulations! You've successfully relaunched the Rocky series for a whole new generation, perfectly encapsulating what made the franchise great while updating it for a modern sensibility. So, now what? Where is a sequel to a legacy sequel to go next? That's the task ahead for Creed II. With Steven Caple Jr. stepping in for Ryan Coogler as director, the second film follows Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) as he claims the title, only to find the past creeping its way back. None other than Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) — who killed Donnie's father in the ring — and his boxer son Viktor (Florian Munteanu) reappear with a showdown in mind. of joins Franchise Detours to discuss 2018's Creed II for an epic-length chat. We'll cover whether the film is helped or hindered by its ties to 1985's , how it undermines its theme of fathers and sons, and if it serves as a fitting final appearance for Sylvester Stallone's Rocky. This may be the swan song for "The Italian Stallion" on the big screen. So join us for a heart-wrenching journey through the entire Rocky franchise to date. Next up? The most recent entry, 2023's Stallone-less Creed III!
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'Creed' (feat. The Lady-Wan of Screen Run)
10/04/2024
'Creed' (feat. The Lady-Wan of Screen Run)
After restored the franchise to its former glory — winning back fans and critics who were left cold after Rocky V — it really had seemed like this time the world had seen the last of Sylvester Stallone's iconic character. But that was before director Ryan Coogler got involved. Coogler is now best known for the cultural phenomenon that was Black Panther, but he had made only one feature film when he stepped into the director's chair for 2015's Creed. Moreover, the film was to star frequent Coogler's Fruitvale Station star Michael B. Jordan, coming off of Fant4stic, opposite Stallone's seventh round as the retired champ himself. of joins Franchise Detours to discuss how its director and star went the distance with 2015's Creed . We'll discuss how the film honors the previous Rocky films, why it needs to earn its place within the beloved franchise, and whether it's the best legacy sequel ever made.
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'Rocky Balboa' (feat. film critic Phoenix Clouden)
09/27/2024
'Rocky Balboa' (feat. film critic Phoenix Clouden)
While the story started by had seemingly come to a close, Sylvester Stallone's dissatisfaction with the fifth film — and perhaps the declining state of his own career — led him to consider bringing his signature character back for just one more fight. And thus, he returned to write, direct and star in Rocky Balboa, released 30 years after the first film. Film critic joins us to discuss 2006's Rocky Balboa, the film which defied the odds to earn critical acclaim and box office success. We'll discuss how the film handles the absence of Talia Shire's Adrian, why it feels like a necessary project for both Rocky and Stallone alike, and where it feels the door open for the character's return nearly a decade later in Creed. We'll also delve into the film’s thematic elements, such as aging and legacy. Serving as both a conclusion to Rocky's story and a fresh entry point for a new generation, we'll discuss how Rocky Balboa encapsulates the film’s message of perseverance. Join us for an engaging discussion celebrating the enduring spirit of one of cinema’s most beloved characters.
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'Rocky V' (feat. Pete of Middle Class Film Class)
09/20/2024
'Rocky V' (feat. Pete of Middle Class Film Class)
With taking the franchise to new commercial heights, the film represented, in some ways, the biggest victory yet for both writer/director/star Sylvester Stallone and his fictional counterpart. However, that success — which saw the scale of the franchise expand to international levels — might have set unfair expectations for the future. Enter Rocky V. On one hand, the return of the original film's director, John G. Avildsen, signaled a return to Rocky's roots as an underdog, as the champ finds himself back in the neighborhood and searching for relevance. But audiences and critics at the time didn't appreciate this seemingly more downbeat approach, perhaps sensing the magic of the series was missing. of joins us to discuss what was once intended as the finale of the Rocky series, 1990's Rocky V. We'll discuss whether the film deserves its lackluster reputation, how it inadvertently sets up subsequent movies, and why the surprise addition of one cast member carries so much weight. So lace up those gloves and join our discussion.
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'Rocky IV' (feat. Ryan Luis Rodriguez of One Track Mind)
09/13/2024
'Rocky IV' (feat. Ryan Luis Rodriguez of One Track Mind)
If marks the promise of how the franchise could grow beyond the championship belt, then the next film arguably shows its limitations. With star Sylvester Stallone again serving as writer and director, Rocky IV sees the iconic cinematic hero facing his most devastating blow yet, sending him all the way to Russia to represent his country on a quest for vengeance. of joins us to discuss 1985's Rocky IV, a film that remains the biggest worldwide box office hit in the Rocky/Creed franchise. We'll discuss why the film is the most dated installment of the series, how it underutilizes one of its most charismatic stars, and the 2021 release of Stallone's Rocky IV: Rocky vs. Drago – The Ultimate Director's Cut. Although Rocky IV has more than its share of defenders, this is often the point where many film franchises start to falter. With an established storytelling formula and a generally intimate focus on a handful of main characters, how does Rocky IV manage to keep the title character in the cinematic ring? And where does it key up the 1990 flop that was Rocky V?
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'Rocky III' (feat. writer Jeannette Miller)
09/08/2024
'Rocky III' (feat. writer Jeannette Miller)
(and, by extension, ) tells one of the greatest underdog stories in cinema history. But with audiences clamoring for more of "The Italian Stallion," how could writer/director/star Sylvester Stallone build upon Rocky Balboa's story after he has achieved the ultimate goal of claiming the heavyweight championship? The answer lies in the characters themselves. With 1982's Rocky III, Stallone ups the personal stakes for the titular hero, while also continuing to follow how the relationships between the core characters evolve. Buoyed by appearances from professional wrestler Hulk Hogan and Mr. T as Rocky's nemesis, Clubber Lang, as well as a hot soundtrack, the movie perhaps marks the series' biggest success to date. Writer joins us to discuss how Rocky III continues the series' character-focused storytelling. We'll discuss why it switches up the structure of its predecessors, how it mirrors Stallone's own life and career, and which character relationship might be the series' best. So start pumping Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger" and get ready to enter the ring once again.
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'Rocky II' (feat. Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast)
08/30/2024
'Rocky II' (feat. Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast)
Even decades after its release, 1976's Rocky stands as the ultimate cinematic underdog story. But following its critical acclaim, box office performance, and awards wins, it's only natural that everything involved — including star and screenwriter Sylvester Stallone — would explore what happened next in the lives of Rocky, Adrian, Paulie, Mickey, and of course, Apollo. of and joins us to talk about how 1979's Rocky II expands on the original film. We'll discuss whether the movie undercuts its predecessor with a Rocky and Apollo rematch, how the movie cements Stallone as the primary creative force of the franchise, and whether the film successfully justifies Rocky's return to the sport. Join us as we step back into the ring with Rocky and his crew for a sequel that dares to push boundaries. With Rocky II, Stallone sharpens the stakes to focus on the theme of redemption and hones in on the emotional journeys of both Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed. It's a can't-miss entry in a franchise that still has so much more ground left to cover.
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'Rocky' (feat. Lauren Knight of That Movie Is Fine)
08/23/2024
'Rocky' (feat. Lauren Knight of That Movie Is Fine)
Long before Franchise Detours began, the Rocky/Creed series was well on our radar. Following the Crooked Table Podcast's (now Close Watch) monthly coverage of the and films, "The Italian Stallion" was eyed as the next long-running, beloved series to take the spotlight. Alas, plans changed, and we didn't enter the ring until now. At last, we tackle the 1976 classic that is Rocky. One of only four franchise films to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, the film—directed by John G. Avildsen (The Karate Kid)—introduced Sylvester Stallone's leading-man status and has left an indelible mark on the industry in the nearly five decades since it first hit the big screen. from joins us to chat about the enduring legacy of Rocky. We'll discuss how its themes still resonate today, why Stallone needed to write his own star-making project, and how the film lays the groundwork for what has become a decades-long character study. More about people than boxing, Rocky is so much more than a sports movie. Join us to discover why Rocky still justifies the cultural phenomenon it created. We bet you'll be jogging up the nearest staircase in no time.
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'Deadpool & Wolverine' (feat. Chauncey Telese of LA Podfidential)
08/19/2024
'Deadpool & Wolverine' (feat. Chauncey Telese of LA Podfidential)
Six years and one major studio acquisition later, Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool finally joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But after seemingly shattered the superhero movie formula and doubled-down on the scale of the Merc with the Mouth's particular corner of the universe, where could "Deadpool 3" go to keep upping the ante? In a word, *SNIKT*. After years of development, it was the addition of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine that finally helped Reynolds and director Shawn Levy (Free Guy, Real Steel) crack the code that ultimately led to the first Marvel Studios' billion-dollar grosser since the similarly multiverse-centric Spider-Man: No Way Home. But does this third entry confirm Deadpool as Marvel Jesus? of joins us to discuss Deadpool & Wolverine as it continues its rampage through theaters. We'll chat about how the franchise makes the shift to the MCU, whether those surprise characters add or distract from the story at hand, and where the film's conclusion leaves the title characters amid the upcoming MCU slate.
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'Deadpool 2' (feat. Matthew Anderson of The Lone Screenplay Nominee Podcast)
07/26/2024
'Deadpool 2' (feat. Matthew Anderson of The Lone Screenplay Nominee Podcast)
Despite its crass humor and ultraviolence, 2016's professed itself to be a self-described "love story." Likewise, its even more over-the-top sequel fancies itself a "family film." With a budget roughly twice that of its predecessor, Ryan Reynolds' second turn in the iconic red suit was a similar box office hit, expanding the first film's themes and taking bigger chances. As the road to Deadpool & Wolverine continues, of joins us to dig into 2018's Deadpool 2. We'll discuss what the direction of franchise newcomer David Leitch (John Wick, Atomic Blonde) brings to the series, how the film doubles-down on its R rating, and why it could perfectly lead into the character's MCU debut. So join us as Deadpool crosses paths with the likes of Josh Brolin's Cable and Zazie Beetz' Domino, has his first brush with time travel and how the Deadpool franchise comments and complements the mainline X-Men films. Also, keep an eye on the for a bonus episode on the movie's PG-13 cut, theatrically released as Once Upon a Deadpool!
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'Deadpool' (feat. Jeff Johnson and Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows)
07/19/2024
'Deadpool' (feat. Jeff Johnson and Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows)
Deadpool. That sounds like a f**king franchise. Right? After the character's big-screen debut (kinda) in 2009's , it sure didn't seem that way. Ryan Reynolds' take on Marvel Comics' fourth wall-breaking quasi-superhero Wade Wilson aka Deadpool seemed like it had its one shot. Then some leaked footage later, the Merc with the Mouth got a new life. Following our from 2023, we return to the world of Marvel's mutants with a mega-series all about what will soon be the Deadpool trilogy. Of course, we'll kick it off this episode with the film that started it all, from first-time director Tim Miller. Listen as Jeff Johnson and Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows join us to touch all over 2016's Deadpool. We'll discuss why the film pushed the boundaries of the superhero genre, how its meta-commentary has aged, and why it is perhaps exactly what Marvel and the X-Men films needed. We'll also chat in-depth about Reynolds, who championed the project and has leveraged the success of Deadpool to propel his career in Hollywood to new heights. Beneath its snark and violence, there’s also real heart in Deadpool. Wade’s romance with Vanessa (Morena Baccarin) adds emotional depth. And in this episode, we'll uncover that Deadpool is, really and truly, a love story. So whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan or recently caught up with Deadpool ahead of the upcoming release of the third film, cue the music and enjoy!
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'Freddy vs. Jason' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
07/12/2024
'Freddy vs. Jason' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
After eight films (including the meta-horror of ) and nearly 20 decades, Robert Englund wore the razor glove for the final time. But in keeping with the history of A Nightmare on Elm Street, Freddy Krueger's curtain call wasn't what anyone expected it would be. of helps us close down this mega-series with 2003's horror monster mash-up Freddy vs. Jason. We'll discuss how the movie deftly combines the Elm Street films with Friday the 13th, whether its lack of intense scares detracts from the film, and the missed sequel opportunities. Directed by Ronny Yu, Freddy vs. Jason might not be considered a cinematic turning point at large, but the film did unite two of horror's biggest bads just before their respective series faced the reboot treatment. So choose your fighter, and secure ringside seats to the ultimate horror showdown.
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'Wes Craven's New Nightmare' (feat. film professor/author Ryan L. Terry)
07/06/2024
'Wes Craven's New Nightmare' (feat. film professor/author Ryan L. Terry)
Given its title, Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare seemingly plunged the final nail into the coffin of Robert Englund's infamous horror villain. And yet, it was ultimately Wes Craven — writer-director of the original A Nightmare on Elm Street — who gave Freddy Krueger a new lease on life. Film professor and author joins Franchise Detours to slash our way through 1994's Wes Craven's New Nightmare. We'll discuss how the film celebrates the tenth anniversary of the original film, why it was a box office disappointment, and how it shaped the next phase of horror. As the only installment not in continuity with the rest of the A Nightmare on Elm Street films, Wes Craven’s New Nightmare marks a true "franchise detour.” So curl up for a dark tale as we reunite with Craven, Englund, Heather Langenkamp, and John Saxon for a nightmare unlike any other.
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'Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare' (feat. Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows-Cast)
06/29/2024
'Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare' (feat. Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows-Cast)
In hindsight, it makes sense the diminishing returns of might signal Freddy Krueger should quit while he was (at least relatively) ahead. So two years later, longtime creative collaborator Rachel Talalay took the director's chair for the "final" entry. of joins us to discuss 1991's Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare. We'll discuss how the film expands Freddy's mythos, whether the full-tilt lean into comedy works, and whether Freddy's supposed final bow serves as a satisfying end to Wes Craven's creation. Join us on the latest Franchise Detours as we dissect the dreamscapes of Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare. We’ll slice into the film’s horror elements, its ties to the overarching Elm Street mythology, and how it originally sought to lay Freddy to rest with a rare definitive end of an icon.
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'A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child' (feat. David Rosen of Piecing It Together)
06/21/2024
'A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child' (feat. David Rosen of Piecing It Together)
introduced fans to a brand-new final girl in Lisa Wilcox's Alice Johnson. So all its sequel had to do is build on that character and her story to keep that momentum going. But does A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child deliver a winner? of joins us to discuss how the Stephen Hopkins-directed film taps into the primal fears of impending parenthood, whether its bleaker edge fits at this point in the franchise, and why this less-talked-about installment might hold the key to rebirthing the series. Join us as we delve into A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child, examining how it breaks tradition regarding its tonal balance, character arcs and visual palette. So tuck in for a night of reflection as we contemplate how this fifth entry affected the longevity of this iconic series.
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'A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master' (feat. Kevin the Critic)
06/15/2024
'A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master' (feat. Kevin the Critic)
Thanks to , Freddy Krueger became as popular as ever. The Springwood Slasher was suddenly a household name, leading to an increased focus on his macabre sense of humor. The result is the entry often known as the "MTV Nightmare." returns to the show to discuss director Renny Harlin's A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master. We'll discuss which lessons it learns from its predecessor, how it shifts focus to a new final girl and why one particular sequence is undeniably the Kill of the Week. Join us as we dissect A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master’s legacy as — for better or worse — a turning point. The highest-grossing entry until Freddy vs Jason, this one isn't as discussed as others. But let's tumble into a nightmarish wonderland with our own Alice (Lisa Wilcox).
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'A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master' (feat. Kevin the Critic)
06/15/2024
'A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master' (feat. Kevin the Critic)
Thanks to , Freddy Krueger became as popular as ever. The Springwood Slasher was suddenly a household name, leading to an increased focus on his macabre sense of humor. The result is the entry often known as the "MTV Nightmare." returns to the show to discuss director Renny Harlin's A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master. We'll discuss which lessons it learns from its predecessor, how it shifts focus to a new final girl and why one particular sequence is undeniably the Kill of the Week. Join us as we dissect A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master’s legacy as — for better or worse — a turning point. The highest-grossing entry until Freddy vs Jason, this one isn't as discussed as others. But let's tumble into a nightmarish wonderland with our own Alice (Lisa Wilcox).
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A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors' (feat. podcaster Deanna Chapman)
06/07/2024
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors' (feat. podcaster Deanna Chapman)
After the mixed reception to , the franchise turned to series creator Wes Craven and original star Heather Langenkamp. As our eight-part Freddy-led mega-series continues, we arrive at 1987's fan-favorite A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. Podcaster joins us to discuss how director Chuck Russell's installment serves as a pivotal entry in Freddy Krueger's saga. We’ll discuss why the movie is so beloved by fans, how it soft-resets the series' focus, and how it uses supernatural threats to tap into real-life psychological horrors. So join us as we delve into A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. We’ll explore the film’s innovative special effects, its dynamic characters, and how it turned the tables on Freddy, giving the Elm Street children a fighting chance. It’s an episode you won’t want to sleep through.
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'A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge' (feat. Brandon Stanwyck of Fearsome Queer)
05/31/2024
'A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge' (feat. Brandon Stanwyck of Fearsome Queer)
How do you follow a classic like ? That was the task director Jack Sholder and star Mark Patton faced with A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge. Released less than a year later, the sequel dared to do something darker and very different, with wildly mixed results. of helps us break down the controversy behind A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge. We'll reckon with the film's complicated legacy, acknowledge its ambitious themes and bold creative choices, and attempt to put it into a better context for today's fans. The movie’s exploration of identity and fear strikes a different chord than its predecessor, making it a fascinating entry to revisit. So sharpen your claws and prepare to dive into A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge as we unravel the mystery behind Freddy’s second appearance.
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'A Nightmare on Elm Street' (1984) (feat. screenwriter/actor Bri Azmoudeh)
05/24/2024
'A Nightmare on Elm Street' (1984) (feat. screenwriter/actor Bri Azmoudeh)
Chucky made some friends. Ash got groovy with Deadites. Now it's time for Freddy Krueger to slash his way into the spotlight, as we kick off Franchise Detours' first horror mega-series since 2021 with an in-depth chat about writer/director Wes Craven's 1984 classic A Nightmare on Elm Street. In keeping with tradition, screenwriter/actor — who previously joined us for and — returns to welcome another horror franchise to the show. We'll explore the legacy of Freddy Krueger, why he endures, and how Craven's vision still holds up. As A Nightmare on Elm Street celebrates its 40th anniversary, grab your crucifix, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and stay awake with us as we dissect how this groundbreaking film left an indelible mark on the horror genre and how it continues to influence filmmakers four decades later.
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'The World's End' (feat. Robert Stewart of Stew World Order)
05/17/2024
'The World's End' (feat. Robert Stewart of Stew World Order)
As we raise our glasses to the final installment of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, Franchise Detours dives into the bittersweet, otherworldly journey of 2013's The World’s End. The film ends the series with a poignant commentary on friendship, nostalgia, and the inescapable march of time. of joins the show to discuss director/co-writer Edgar Wright and co-writer/star Simon Pegg's grand sci-fi finale. We'll discuss how The World’s End blends genre elements with the raw emotion of revisiting one’s past and the trilogy’s signature comedic punch. Join us as we unpack the legacy of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy. Let's explore how this third film’s sci-fi elements enhance its underlying themes, its recurring motifs and gags, and how the character arcs have evolved from Shaun of the Dead to Hot Fuzz and, finally, The World's End.
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'Hot Fuzz' (feat. Lauren Robinson of the Beer'd Al Podcast)
05/10/2024
'Hot Fuzz' (feat. Lauren Robinson of the Beer'd Al Podcast)
Continuing our genre-blending trek through the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, we’re locking and loading for a deep dive into the explosive Hot Fuzz. Armed with sharp wit and a barrage of bullets, this entry takes aim at action movie conventions with a dash of murder mystery thrown in. Joining us is of the . We’ll explore how Hot Fuzz balances adrenaline-fueled action with moments of genuine camaraderie and heart. With a plot as twisted as Sandford's country roads, the film is a testament to director Edgar Wright and star Simon Pegg. So buckle up for a ride-along with Franchise Detours as we navigate the action, the laughs and the legacy of Hot Fuzz. Let's discuss the film’s intricate comedy, its homage to action classics, and the subtext hidden beneath its surface. Join us, won't you? After all, it’s all for the greater good.
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'Shaun of the Dead' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
05/03/2024
'Shaun of the Dead' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
Just as the zombie genre returned to life, Shaun of the Dead emerged as a cult classic that redefined the landscape of horror-comedy. As we dissect the intricacies of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy in our latest mega-series, we delve into the film that set the tone for Edgar Wright's signature work. of joins us to shed light on how Shaun of the Dead balances gore and gags to create a cleverly constructed satire. Taking aim at the mundanity of life and horror tropes, Wright and co-writer/star Simon Pegg set a standard for genre fusion that's rarely been matched. So grab a Cornetto (if you can find them near you), and listen in as we unravel how 2004's Shaun of the Dead laid the groundwork for a thematic trilogy of comedy genre mash-ups that continue to captivate and entertain audiences worldwide decades later. How's that for a slice of fried gold?
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'The New Mutants' (feat. Jackson Smith of Nightfall Entertainment)
10/31/2023
'The New Mutants' (feat. Jackson Smith of Nightfall Entertainment)
Just when you thought Dark Phoenix put an underwhelming bow on the Fox era of X-Men movies, The New Mutants comes along to further complicate the franchise's legacy. In this BONUS episode to our mega-series following the X-Men movie franchise, we'll go in-depth on the oft-forgotten 2020 film. On paper, The New Mutants should have been an easy win. Taking the X-Men universe headfirst into horror seemed like an intriguing departure. Then, of course, The New Mutants' continual delays led the world to (perhaps rightfully) suspect something was amiss behind the scenes. of joins the final Franchise Detours of 2023 as we explore the unique world of The New Mutants. We'll discuss the film's horror aesthetic, its connection to the broader X-Men universe, and how it aimed to give the franchise a fresh perspective 11 films in. Join us as we venture into the eerie and enigmatic world of The New Mutants and determine why this risky experiment didn't quite pay off. LISTEN on , , , and other podcatchers:
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'Dark Phoenix' (feat. Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast)
10/27/2023
'Dark Phoenix' (feat. Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast)
Our X-Men mega-series comes to a close (or does it?) with 2019's Dark Phoenix, as the franchise takes a second stab at one of the comics' most iconic storylines. With far behind him, can first-time director Simon Kinberg (who cowrote that 2006 movie) right past wrongs? of joins us to unravel the mysteries of Dark Phoenix. We'll explore the film's poor reception, its role as the series' unintended conclusion, and Sophie Turner's lead performance as Jean Grey. Most of all, we'll address whether Dark Phoenix does justice to this story. Join us as we witness the rise of the Phoenix and determine where Dark Phoenix leaves the X-Men movie legacy ahead of the mutants' MCU debut. LISTEN on , , , and other podcatchers! #Podcasts #NewEpisode
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'Logan' (feat. film critic Catherine Gonzales)
10/20/2023
'Logan' (feat. film critic Catherine Gonzales)
The claws are out and the adamantium is gleaming as we dive into the final chapter in the Wolverine trilogy. Hugh Jackman's iconic portrayal of the mutant hero faced a bumpy road in his solo films. But was 2017's Logan, featuring returning director James Mangold, worth the wait? Fans wondered if they'd ever see the character's true potential on the big screen. Fortunately, Jackman's determination to bring Logan's story to a fitting conclusion paid off. In Logan, we witness an aging, world-weary Wolverine confronting his past and grappling with his own mortality. Film critic joins us to dissect the gritty world of Logan. We'll explore how it ties into the broader X-Men universe, the character's journey throughout the franchise, and the film's impact on the superhero genre. Moreover, we'll weigh in on Wolverine's return in Deadpool 3. Join us as we celebrate the Wolverine's final and most poignant outing, discussing the legacy of Logan and its place in cinematic history. LISTEN on , , , and other podcatchers:
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'X-Men: Apocalypse' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
10/16/2023
'X-Men: Apocalypse' (feat. Clare Brunton of W-Rated)
After exploring time travel and creating a shared universe with , where could the sequel go next? Why, the gods, of course! For better or worse, 2016's X-Men: Apocalypse pits the Marvel mutants against their most formidable enemy yet: a big, blue Oscar Isaac. In this episode, of helps us uncover the truth behind director Bryan Singer's most divisive X-Men installment. We'll discuss whether the movie is actually unjustly hated, how it serves as a prequel to Singer's original trilogy, and whether Isaac's performance hurts or helps. Join us as we journey back to the Apocalypse and decide whether the movie lives up to its name. Is this where the X-Films finally jumped the shark? LISTEN on , , , and other podcatchers:
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'X-Men: Days of Future Past' (feat. film critic Rosa Parra)
10/06/2023
'X-Men: Days of Future Past' (feat. film critic Rosa Parra)
After The Avengers, superhero cinema has never been the same. Suddenly, everything needed to be interconnected, featuring tons of characters and an increasingly complicated timeline. Naturally, the X-Men series retroactively created its own shared universe of sorts with X-Men: Days of Future Past. Fourteen years after , director Bryan Singer's film combined the original trilogy cast and that of X-Men: First Class to create a time-travel adventure that raised the bar for what Marvel's mutants could do onscreen. Or at the very least, it put pressure on the series to be more ambitious. Film critic joins Franchise Detours to travel back to 2014's X-Men: Days of Future Past, a movie that feels like even more of a wild swing nearly a decade later. We'll discuss its unique place in the series, that epic cast, and how this installment may have doomed the series going forward. | |
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