Geek Freaks

Marvel, Star Wars, and Gaming News: Deep Dives & Exclusive Interviews Welcome to Geek Freaks, your ultimate weekly briefing on the biggest stories in pop culture. From the latest MCU theories and Star Wars breakdowns to the newest updates in the gaming world—including Marvel Rivals, Nintendo, and PlayStation—we cut through the noise to bring you the news that matters. Each week, we dive into the heart of geek culture with a mix of fast-paced news recaps, spoiler-filled reviews, and deep-dive discussions on the franchises you love, like X-Men ’97, The Mandalorian, and DC Studios. Why listen to Geek Freaks? Expert Analysis: We don’t just report the news; we break down what it means for the future of your favorite cinematic universes. Exclusive Guest Interviews: Hear from the icons behind the characters, including voice legends like Lenore Zann (Rogue) and industry creators shaping the future of comics and games. Broad Spectrum Coverage: Whether it’s the latest AAA gaming release, an indie comic gem, or a blockbuster trailer reaction, if it’s geeky, we’re talking about it. Don’t let your feed fall behind! Hit the "Follow" or "Plus" button in your podcast app to ensure every new episode is automatically delivered to your library. Join the Freak Nation and stay ahead of the curve on everything Marvel, Star Wars, and Video Games. Visit us at GeekFreaksPodcast dot com for more.

The Batman 2 Delayed to 2028, God of War Recast, and Director Stephanie Hubbard on "A Fairy Tale" 07/21/2026

The Batman 2 Delayed to 2028, God of War Recast, and Director Stephanie Hubbard on "A Fairy Tale" The Batman fans, brace yourselves: Part II just slid all the way to February 2028, and the guys have thoughts on whether it should even happen. Before Frank ships out for a two-week cruise, he and Jonathan clear the week's biggest geek headlines, from a live-action Princess Tiana penned by Colman Domingo, to a major God of War series recast, to Steve Buscemi joining the Far Cry show and a quick DC and Marvel roundup covering Blue Beetle, Supergirl, and Nova. Then the episode shifts gears for a standout interview with writer and director Stephanie Hubbard, the creative force behind the new fantasy comedy A Fairy Tale. She breaks down her leap from hairstylist to filmmaker, how Pure Magic Pictures built a fully connected nine-film universe on indie budgets, the real trading card game (Dino Guru) her cast learned to play on set, and why a thriving Discord community beats chasing Netflix. It is a genuinely fun look at building fandom from the ground up. Timestamps and Topics 0:00 Intro and Frank's Vacation Catch-Up 1:01 Colman Domingo's Live-Action Princess Tiana 6:08 God of War Series Recasts Kratos 10:27 Far Cry Series Adds Steve Buscemi 16:05 The Batman Part II Delayed to 2028 23:18 DC and Marvel Roundup: Blue Beetle, Supergirl, Nova 33:11 Guest Interview: Stephanie Hubbard on "A Fairy Tale" 1:07:46 Weekly Picks and Wrap-Up Key Takeaways The Batman Part II is delayed to February 18, 2028, and the hosts debate whether the six-year gap makes the sequel worth finishing at all, especially with a separate DCU Batman on the way. The God of War series is recasting Kratos after actor Ryan Hurst suffered a torn bicep. With two seasons filming back to back, four already-shot episodes will need a full reshoot. Colman Domingo is writing a live-action Princess Tiana that tells a new New Orleans story rather than remaking The Princess and the Frog, which the guys see as a smarter path than the recent one-for-one remakes. Noah Hawley and Rob McElhenney's Far Cry series lands its first big villain casting in Steve Buscemi, with the hosts riffing on possible settings and story angles. Stephanie Hubbard's A Fairy Tale is the ninth feature in Pure Magic Pictures' fully connected cinematic universe, premiering July 23 at 7:30 PM Eastern, with the studio on track for four films in 2026. Pure Magic built real fan infrastructure around the movies: an actual trading card game (Dino Guru) the cast learned on set, a Discord community that names things like their coffee blend, and a heavy convention presence. Quotes "Not all fairies are good at their job." (Stephanie Hubbard, on the premise of A Fairy Tale) "When I try to be someone's savior, it doesn't go very well. I'm just a person." (Stephanie Hubbard, on the film's message) "No excuses. The cavalry isn't coming." (Stephanie Hubbard, on the Robert Rodriguez mindset that pushed her into filmmaking) "We make movies, but we're truly artists first, and this is our art." (Stephanie Hubbard, on community and creating) "Maybe in 30 years, we will make Time Pit." (Stephanie Hubbard, on the running in-universe reference in every Pure Magic film) Call to Action If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss a drop, leave a rating and review to help new listeners find the show, and share it with a fellow geek on social using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com, the source for all the news discussed in this episode A Fairy Tale premieres July 23 at 7:30 PM Eastern through the Pure Magic Pictures season pass Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Got a hot take on The Batman getting pushed to 2028, a dream Far Cry setting, or a question for a future guest? Send us your questions, reactions, and topic ideas. We love working listener picks into upcoming episodes. Geek culture, pop culture podcast, movie news, comic book news, The Batman, God of War, DC Universe, Marvel, Princess Tiana, Colman Domingo, indie film, filmmaking, Pure Magic Pictures, Stephanie Hubbard, A Fairy Tale, trading card games, Far Cry, Steve Buscemi, Robert Pattinson, Blue Beetle, Supergirl, Nova, nerd podcast, fandom /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/42152445

Dune Part 3 Trailer Breakdown, Naruto Live-Action Movie, and the Nightmare on Elm Street Reboot 07/14/2026

Dune Part 3 Trailer Breakdown, Naruto Live-Action Movie, and the Nightmare on Elm Street Reboot Dune Part Three just dropped its IMAX trailer, Naruto is finally getting a big-budget live-action movie, and Freddy Krueger is coming back in a full Nightmare on Elm Street reboot. Frank and Squeaks break down a stacked week of trailers, teasers, and franchise news to figure out which of these actually have a shot. Along the way they react to the Shrek 5 trailer and its new animation style, size up the Crystal Lake teaser and its Pamela Voorhees focus, get hyped for the canon 1994 Ghostbusters animated series with Dan Aykroyd and Jack Quaid attached, and debate whether DC's Mr. Terrific series proves James Gunn is playing the long game after Supergirl. Plus a spoiler-friendly Dungeon Crawler Carl book club check-in and this week's recommendations, from Death Stranding 2 to the Predator Badlands comic mini-series. And the question of the week: if the X-Men ran the government, who gets the White House? Timestamps and Topics 0:00 Intro and Question of the Week: Which X-Men Should Run the Government? 5:18 Dune Part Three IMAX Trailer Reaction 12:36 Shrek 5 Trailer and the New Animation Style 16:16 Crystal Lake Teaser: The Friday the 13th Prequel Series 19:35 Naruto Live-Action Movie News and Casting 24:46 Nightmare on Elm Street Reboot at Paramount 28:49 Ghostbusters Animated Series Coming to Netflix 32:06 DC News: Mr. Terrific Series, Supergirl Thoughts, and Lobo's Future 41:49 Dungeon Crawler Carl Book Club Corner 50:04 Network Updates and Recommendations of the Week Key Takeaways The Dune Part Three trailer suggests the movie is expanding small moments from the book, like the worm heist, into major action set pieces, and it may be the biggest departure from the source material yet. Naruto's live-action movie has real momentum: director Destin Daniel Cretton is attached, creator Masashi Kishimoto has given his blessing, and a global casting search is underway for Team 7. The Nightmare on Elm Street reboot lands at Paramount with the Wes Craven estate involved and the team behind Barbarian and Weapons attached, and the premise holds up better in a modern setting than most 80s slashers. The new Ghostbusters animated series is set in 1994 New York, is canon, and has Dan Aykroyd producing, with Jack Quaid in the voice cast. DC greenlighting a Mr. Terrific series after Supergirl's soft box office signals James Gunn is prioritizing long-term world building over chasing safe bets. The Crystal Lake teaser centers Pamela Voorhees, played by Linda Cardellini, raising the question of whether a Friday the 13th story can work with Jason mostly offscreen. Quotes "You go to sleep, Freddy's in your mind. Nightmare on Elm Street is one of those stories that actually could work today just fine." "If I were a Naruto fan, these are all the stars lining up that I'd want to line up." "I think this is going to be the Clone Wars of Ghostbusters." "If you were to cut every part of Lobo out of this movie, you would not feel his absence in the slightest. That being said, Jason Momoa as Lobo nailed it." "Everything that's ever mentioned or anything that's put into his bag, you can assume will be used." Call to Action Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you never miss a breakdown, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this one with a fellow geek using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com, the source of all news discussed during the podcast New Fairy Tale interview with director Stephanie Hubbard, available now on Patreon Follow Us Website: GeekFreaksPodcast.com Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Which X-Men would you put in the White House? Send us your cabinet picks, reactions, and future topic ideas on social media or in the comments on Spotify. We read everything and your question might make it into a future episode. /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/42096155

X-Men '97 Season 2 Premiere Breakdown and Bill Bernhardt Interview on The Superman Wars 07/08/2026

X-Men '97 Season 2 Premiere Breakdown and Bill Bernhardt Interview on The Superman Wars X-Men '97 Season 2 is here, and Frank and Thomas break down the first three episodes with the kind of comic book receipts only a guy who has read nearly every 90s X-Men run can bring. From Mother Askani and the Summers family timeline chaos to Storm's god-tier power up, X-Force's return, and the Rise of Apocalypse, they dig into what the show nails, where episode two stumbles, and whether Kang is being set up as the season's secret villain. Then Frank sits down with Bill Bernhardt, author of over 60 books, to talk about The Superman Wars, his narrative nonfiction account of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster's decades-long fight with DC over the rights to Superman. Bill shares stories from his interviews with Siegel's daughter, the heartbreaking letters Jerry wrote in the 1950s, why Clark Kent is really just a taller Jerry, and hard-won advice for writers protecting their work today. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and What's on This Episode 01:43 X-Men '97 Season 2 Review Begins: Episode 1, Days of Future Past 13:11 Episode 2: A Force to Be Reckoned With 23:13 Episode 3: Rise of Apocalypse Part One 24:57 Kang Theories and MCU Connections 34:31 Interview: Bill Bernhardt, Author of The Superman Wars 55:06 Rapid Fire Superman Questions with Bill 01:02:24 Wrap-Up, Network News, and What's Coming to Patreon Key Takeaways X-Men '97 Season 2 juggles three timelines and decades of convoluted comic lore, yet keeps the emotional core clear, especially Jean's relationship with Nathan and the Summers family dynamic. Storm's solar-powered upgrade and the synergy-style team attacks are standout moments, with animation and editing that continue to elevate the series. The Kang-style technology in episode three hints at a bigger villain reveal, and the hosts suspect the season was written while Jonathan Majors was still central to the MCU's plans. Bill Bernhardt's The Superman Wars tells the true story of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster's fight for Superman, drawn from court records, family interviews, and a 100-page autobiographical fragment Siegel typed himself. DC removed Siegel and Shuster's credits from Superman stories after the 1947 lawsuit, and the 1975 pension deal was only the middle of a legal battle that stretched decades further. Bill's advice for new writers: build a community, get a second opinion before signing anything, and stay alert, because the predators that took advantage of Siegel still exist in new forms. Quotes "Our old man bodies said no, but our heart said yes." – Thomas, on staying up for the premiere "The X-Men created Apocalypse. He's a leader because of the influence the X-Men put on him." – Frank "It's a taller, slender Jerry, but it's Jerry." – Bill Bernhardt, on Clark Kent "His origin story is basically Moses in outer space." – Bill Bernhardt, on Superman "Taking somebody's name off their work, that's immoral." – Bill Bernhardt Call to Action Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you never miss a show, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this one with a fellow X-Men or Superman fan on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Every share helps the show grow. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com: the source of all news discussed during the podcast : available at your local bookstore and all online retailers Check out the Weekly X-Men '97 episode reviews on the Follow Us Website: Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Frank: @franklourence79 Thomas: @thomascraigviii Listener Questions Got a hot take on X-Men '97 Season 2, a question for a future guest, or a topic you want us to cover? Send your questions, reactions, and ideas to and we might feature them on a future episode. /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/42007940

Supergirl Review, Avatar Season 2 Reactions, and PlayStation Deletes 551 Movies 07/01/2026

Supergirl Review, Avatar Season 2 Reactions, and PlayStation Deletes 551 Movies Supergirl finally hits theaters and Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 lands on Netflix, so Frank and Jonathan break down whether either adaptation lives up to the source material. One earns real praise for protecting what makes its characters great, while the other leaves one of the best endings in modern comics on the cutting room floor. The guys also react to PlayStation deleting 551 movies from UK libraries with no refunds and what that means for digital ownership, plus a stack of DC animation news including an Absolute Batman series, a Joker anime, and a Krypto show from the SpongeBob team. Jonathan checks in on his first read of Dungeon Crawler Carl, and Frank previews weekly X-Men '97 reviews coming to the Geek Freaks YouTube channel. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and Jonathan's Dungeon Crawler Carl Check-In 03:05 PlayStation Deletes 551 Movies and the Digital Ownership Debate 08:00 DC Animation News: Absolute Batman, Joker Laugh Riot, and Krypto 14:45 Why Animation Is the Truest Form of Adaptation 18:42 Supergirl Movie Review and Comic Comparisons 32:27 Supergirl's Changed Ending and Final Ratings 37:04 Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 Review 51:04 X-Men '97 Weekly Reviews and Recommendations Key Takeaways PlayStation is removing 551 purchased movie titles from UK libraries with no refunds, reigniting the debate over whether you ever really own digital content. DC is going all in on animation with an Absolute Batman series, a Joker anime called Laugh Riot, a Krypto show from the SpongeBob team, and Tom King's Mister Miracle on the way. Supergirl works as a fun entry in the new DCU, but condensing Tom King's comic stripped out the character depth and swapped one of the best endings in modern comics for a simpler kill. Lobo is a blast on screen with real Beetlejuice energy, but he was not necessary to the plot and deserves his own standalone project, which Jason Momoa says he will only do rated R. Avatar Season 2 succeeds where Supergirl stumbles, condensing the story without cutting anything essential to the characters. Toph and Uncle Iroh stand out, and Ba Sing Se delivers. Final scores: Supergirl gets a 7 from Frank and a 10 from Jonathan, while Avatar Season 2 earns an 8 from Frank and a 9 from Jonathan. Quotes "If you find a way to watch movies, I think you're preserving history. You're not stealing." - Frank "Animation is probably the truest form of adaptation nowadays." - Frank "You're not going to be the hero in every story." - Jonathan "Don't think that the loud voices are the voices, because they're not." - Jonathan "Toph feels like Toph now." - Frank Call to Action Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe so you never miss a review, leave us a rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share this one with a friend who still refuses to watch animation. Tag us with #GeekFreaksPodcast so we can see your takes. Links and Resources All the news discussed in this episode can be found at Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Got a hot take on Supergirl's ending, a favorite moment from Avatar Season 2, or a topic you want us to cover next? Send us your questions and reactions and we might feature them on a future episode. Apple Podcast Tags Supergirl, Supergirl movie review, Avatar The Last Airbender, Avatar Season 2, Netflix Avatar, DCU, DC animation, Absolute Batman, Joker Laugh Riot, Krypto, Lobo, Jason Momoa, Milly Alcock, Tom King, Woman of Tomorrow, Dungeon Crawler Carl, PlayStation, digital ownership, X-Men 97, Toph, Uncle Iroh, Ba Sing Se, comic book movies, geek culture, pop culture podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41926780

House of the Dragon Season 3 Premiere Review: Shrek 5 Trailer, Dungeon Crawler Carl Greenlit, and the Bricks and Minifigs Drama 06/23/2026

House of the Dragon Season 3 Premiere Review: Shrek 5 Trailer, Dungeon Crawler Carl Greenlit, and the Bricks and Minifigs Drama House of the Dragon Season 3 finally lands, and the Battle of the Gullet gives the premiere one of the strongest hours the show has produced, complete with a death that reshapes the war and a 9 out of 10 score. It is a solo Father's Day episode, so Frank carries the news himself before settling into a full spoiler breakdown of the Targaryen civil war. Along the way Frank reacts to the first full Shrek 5 trailer and the cast joining Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, celebrates the official greenlight of the Dungeon Crawler Carl TV show at Peacock, and unpacks EA's new in-game advertising platform coming to Madden and College Football 26. The episode also brings back a roundtable from the previous week, where Phil and Thomas help untangle the messy, fast-moving Bricks and Minifigs consignment controversy and what it says about chasing clout in a legal dispute. Timestamps and Topics 0:00 Intro and Father's Day Catch-Up 1:03 Shrek 5 Trailer Breakdown 5:18 Dungeon Crawler Carl TV Show Greenlit at Peacock 11:10 EA's New In-Game Ads Platform 16:23 Bricks and Minifigs Controversy with Phil and Thomas 36:21 House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 1 Review 55:53 Father's Day Send-Off Key Takeaways The full Shrek 5 trailer eases a lot of the early animation backlash, introduces the next generation of characters voiced by Zendaya, Marcelo Hernandez, and Skyler Gisondo, and reunites the original trio under returning director Walt Dohrn and co-director Conrad Vernon. The Dungeon Crawler Carl series is officially greenlit at Peacock with Matt Dinniman confirming it, Seth MacFarlane executive producing through Fuzzy Door, and Chris Yost writing, plus a Princess Donut CGI test that won the creator over. EA is rolling out a proprietary in-game ad server built on the Frostbite engine to drop swappable, location-targeted brand placements across Madden, EA Sports FC, College Football 26, and NBA titles. The Bricks and Minifigs saga started as a local consignment dispute over a massive sealed Lego collection and spiraled into a national story involving Reckless Ben, Coffee Zilla, Patreon, and harassment of unrelated stores. The Battle of the Gullet leans into spectacle with two real ships built to collide and three dragons in the air, landing the death of Jace and setting Rhaenyra up to carry the blame. The premiere doubles down on its core theme of women like Rhaenyra, Alicent, and Rayna being boxed in by the men around them, earning a 9 dragon eggs out of 10 from Frank. Quotes "House of the Dragon is about smashing two gigantic CGI dragons together and seeing who survives." "I'm going to give this a solid nine dragon eggs out of ten." "You kids nowadays, you don't know the joy of a DVD menu." "I don't believe there is good, I don't believe there is evil. I believe everybody has the capacity for both." (Phil) "When everything is said in clickbait titles instead of what is actually going on, suddenly everybody is a bad guy and everybody is a good guy." Call to Action If you enjoyed the episode, hit subscribe so you never miss a drop, leave a rating and review wherever you listen, and share this one with a fellow geek on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources All news discussed on the show is sourced from GeekFreaksPodcast.com, including the full Bricks and Minifigs timeline. Visit Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Host: Frank [@franklourence79] Listener Questions Got a hot take on the House of the Dragon premiere, a Dungeon Crawler Carl casting pick, or a topic you want covered next? Send your questions, reactions, and future episode ideas our way. We love reading them on the show. /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41744880

Are Social Media Bans Good? Plus the DCU Box Office Problem and X-Men '97 Nostalgia Trip 06/17/2026

Are Social Media Bans Good? Plus the DCU Box Office Problem and X-Men '97 Nostalgia Trip Doctor Who isn't actually canceled, but its Christmas special is, and we break down what the Doctor Who cancellation news really means and which studio should take the franchise next. From there it's a full geek-news roundtable: DC's villain-driven universe, the real question hanging over Supergirl's box office, a new Transformers movie, and why X-Men '97 has everyone naming the childhood cartoons that deserve the same revival treatment. Frank, Thomas, and Phil also get into the UK's plan to ban under-16s from social media, weighing mental health, parenting, and whether kids will just find the next workaround. The episode closes on a love letter to Dungeon Crawler Carl and weekly picks spanning House of the Dragon, Hacks, Spider-Noir, and Masters of the Universe. If you came for the Doctor Who news, stay for the DCU box office debate and the cartoon revival wishlist. Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Question of the Week 05:12 Is Doctor Who Really Canceled? 12:19 Only Murders Heads to Britain 15:26 DC Villains and the Box Office Test 25:03 Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Siege 31:50 The Under-16 Social Media Ban 49:51 X-Men '97 and Cartoon Revivals 1:00:37 Dungeon Crawler Carl and Picks Key Takeaways: The canceled Doctor Who Christmas special is not the end of the show, and we make the case that Prime Video could be the right new home. The bigger DC conversation is about redefining what success looks like, comparing projects to the right peers instead of measuring everything against Avengers money. Transformers Siege on Netflix gets a strong endorsement as the best Transformers property since the original. The under-16 social media debate lands on a hard truth: bans push kids toward less-regulated apps, so the conversation is less about restriction and more about mental health. X-Men '97 reopens the floodgates on cartoon revivals, from Gargoyles and Recess to deep cuts like Gummi Bears and Mummies Alive. Dungeon Crawler Carl is the runaway favorite of the episode, with dream casting and puppetry ideas ahead of the Peacock adaptation. GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed on this episode. Subscribe wherever you listen, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share the episode with a fellow geek. Send us a screenshot of your review and we'll mail you a mug. Got a hot take on the Doctor Who move, a cartoon you think deserves the X-Men '97 treatment, or a Dungeon Crawler Carl theory? Send us your questions, reactions, and future topic ideas. We read them on the show. Follow Geek Freaks: Facebook: Threads: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter/X: @geekfreakspodcast Patreon: /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41677255

Masters of the Universe Movie Review Plus Every Big Reveal from PlayStation, Xbox and Summer Game Fest 2026 06/09/2026

Masters of the Universe Movie Review Plus Every Big Reveal from PlayStation, Xbox and Summer Game Fest 2026 The Masters of the Universe movie is finally here, and it lands a lot closer to Guardians of the Galaxy than anyone expected. This week we break down the live action He-Man swing in full, from Nicholas Galitzine's early Chris Pratt energy as Prince Adam to a Skeletor performance that turns into the most fun anyone has had hiding Jared Leto behind a mask, then we tear through the biggest gaming week of the year across three separate showcases. We rank PlayStation State of Play, Summer Game Fest and the Xbox Games Showcase, and the order might surprise you. Marvel's Wolverine and God of War Laufey carry the PlayStation side, Summer Game Fest leaves us cold outside of Guild Wars 3 and the Resident Evil Code Veronica remake, and Xbox makes the strongest argument for itself in years with Gears of War, a slicker Fable, Clockwork Revolution and Halo Campaign Evolved running on Unreal Engine. We close with the new Xbox exclusivity push, what AI showing up in Crazy Taxi could mean, and a Dungeon Crawler Carl recommendation worth your time. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and Best of 2026 So Far 02:30 Masters of the Universe Movie Review 23:30 Final Grades for Masters of the Universe 25:23 PlayStation State of Play: Wolverine and God of War Laufey 36:41 Summer Game Fest Reactions 45:16 Xbox Games Showcase: Fable, Gears, Halo and More 1:01:26 Ranking All Three Showcases 1:05:08 Network Update and Weekly Recommendations Key Takeaways Masters of the Universe leans fully into its cheesy 80s cartoon DNA, and that commitment is exactly why the one liners and over the top tone work instead of feeling forced. Skeletor is the surprise of the movie, with the bone effects and tuned voice landing as a cackling, failing upward villain, and the Evelyn dynamic adds a real layer to him. Marvel's Wolverine and God of War Laufey were the PlayStation standouts, with Laufey's faster, more aerial combat and direct ties back to the 2018 God of War opening the door to new mythologies. Summer Game Fest underwhelmed overall, though Guild Wars 3 reads like a serious MMO contender with no subscription and no battle pass, and the Resident Evil Code Veronica remake got real excitement. Xbox made the loudest case for its own brand, leaning into true exclusives, with Gears of War, a more polished Fable delayed to February 2027, Clockwork Revolution, and Halo Campaign Evolved moving to Unreal Engine for a July 28 release. The new Xbox direction raises bigger questions, from undoing the Game Pass price increase to Crazy Taxi becoming an early test case for AI as a development tool. Quotes "Idris Elba, eternally a badass. I just love that dude." On Skeletor: "almost like an evil drag queen laughing and cackling 80s cartoon Skeletor." "People say the gaming console wars is over. No, it's not, because that's what drives us, dammit." "Don't skip any Geek Freaks." On AI in Crazy Taxi: "If you laid off anybody for AI, then go screw yourself." Call to Action If you had fun with this one, follow the show, leave us a five star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share the episode with the gamer or He-Man fan in your life. Tag us when you post using #GeekFreaksPodcast so we can find you. Snap a picture of your review and we will send you something for the merch shop. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed in this episode. Everything covered across the PlayStation, Xbox and Summer Game Fest showcases is rounded up there. Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Got a hot take on the Masters of the Universe movie, a showcase reveal we slept on, or a game you want us to cover next time? Send us your questions, reactions and future topic ideas. We read them on the show. Apple Podcast Tags Geek Freaks, Masters of the Universe, He-Man, Skeletor, Marvel's Wolverine, God of War Laufey, PlayStation State of Play, Summer Game Fest 2026, Xbox Games Showcase, Gears of War, Fable, Halo Campaign Evolved, Clockwork Revolution, Guild Wars 3, Resident Evil Code Veronica, gaming podcast, geek culture, movie review, video game news, pop culture /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41585080

Spider-Noir Review, Stan Lee's AI Voice Backlash, and Minecraft Movie Squared, Plus Bill Stoddard on Murder Mouse 06/02/2026

Spider-Noir Review, Stan Lee's AI Voice Backlash, and Minecraft Movie Squared, Plus Bill Stoddard on Murder Mouse Episode Summary Nicolas Cage finally gets to be Nicolas Cage, and Frank has thoughts. This week the guys are back in studio to break down the new Spider-Noir series, the ElevenLabs deal recreating Stan Lee's voice that has fans up in arms, and the freshly revealed Minecraft Movie Squared logo and Matt Berry casting. Along the way they realize the Herobrine creepypasta they believed for years was apparently made up the whole time. The back half turns into a full 2026 mid-year check-in, ranking the year's biggest surprises like Wonder Man and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms while looking ahead to Clayface, Spider-Man Brand New Day, and House of the Dragon. Then comic writer Bill Stoddard joins to talk Murder Mouse, the gleefully unhinged book Frank describes as Chuck E. Cheese meets Disneyland meets an 80s slasher flick. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro, In-Studio Catch-Up, and Patreon Thanks 02:32 Minecraft Movie Squared and the Herobrine Myth 08:10 Stan Lee's AI Voice and the ElevenLabs Backlash 16:42 Spider-Noir Review 25:22 2026 Mid-Year Check-In: Movies and Shows 34:15 What's Coming Up Next: Clayface, BioShock Dreams, and More 50:32 Guest Interview: Bill Stoddard on Murder Mouse 1:02:55 Weekly Picks and Comics for the DC Blackout Key Takeaways The Minecraft Movie Squared logo sparks end-game theories, Matt Berry joins the cast, and the crew comes to terms with the Herobrine creepypasta being fabricated rather than real lore. ElevenLabs and the company holding Stan Lee's likeness launch an AI voice to read public library books, drawing heavy backlash, especially given Lee sued over his likeness rights back in 2018. Spider-Noir lands a low 8 from Frank and a 10 out of 10 from Squeaks, with the color and black-and-white toggle and the Ben Reilly name nod as standout details, though the detective pacing runs slow for modern viewers. The mid-year review crowns Wonder Man, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and The Boys finale as highlights, with Clayface, Spider-Man Brand New Day, House of the Dragon, and Lanterns leading the watchlist. A running rant on movie theater popcorn buckets covers the Lobo motorcycle, the 80 dollar Galactus, and the Masters of the Universe sword and castle, plus why studios keep missing the collectibles opportunity. Bill Stoddard breaks down the origin of Murder Mouse, the fourth-wall humor inspired by Looney Tunes, the new Head Case Comics label, and a planned From Dusk Till Dawn style one-shot. Quotes "It's legal, but not right." "It takes the value out of the voice, the words they spoke when they were alive." "Basically, Chuck E. Cheese meets Disneyland meets an 80s slasher flick." "What if the classic Mickey Mouse saw how the world was today?" "Wonder Man just came out of nowhere." Call to Action If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe wherever you listen, leave a quick review to help new listeners find the show, and share it with a friend who needs to hear the Spider-Noir verdict. Use #GeekFreaksPodcast when you post about it. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source for all the news discussed on this episode: Check Out Murder Mouse Today!: Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Got a reaction to the Spider-Noir review, a take on AI voices, or a topic you want covered next time? Send your questions, hot takes, and future episode ideas our way. We read them on the show. Apple Podcast Tags Spider-Noir, Nicolas Cage, Stan Lee AI voice, ElevenLabs, Minecraft Movie, Matt Berry, Herobrine, Murder Mouse, Bill Stoddard, indie comics, Wonder Man, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, The Boys, Clayface, Spider-Man Brand New Day, House of the Dragon, geek culture, comic books, movie reviews, podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41512860

The Boys Finale Breakdown and The Mandalorian and Grogu Review, Plus Paul Sun-Hyung Lee on Avatar Season 2 05/27/2026

The Boys Finale Breakdown and The Mandalorian and Grogu Review, Plus Paul Sun-Hyung Lee on Avatar Season 2 Episode Summary The Boys is officially over, and Frank and Thomas dig into a series finale that split the internet right down the middle. They break down why Homelander's fall hits harder than the backlash suggests, where Kimiko's powers felt rushed, and how Butcher's heel turn landed for comic readers versus everyone else, before scoring both the finale and the full 2019 to now run. From there, they jump to the big screen for The Mandalorian and Grogu, a movie they both enjoyed while admitting the plot is paper thin and the whole thing feels like stitched-together episodes. The centerpiece is a long-awaited sit down with Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, who returns as Uncle Iroh in Avatar: The Last Airbender season two on Netflix and plays Captain Carson Teva in the Star Wars universe. He opens up about adapting a beloved animated series, why he avoids the deep lore cuts when building a character, the reckoning Iroh faces in the live-action version, and the everyman appeal of Carson Teva. He also reflects on Kim's Convenience, the season six that never happened, and why he thinks tearing down something new before watching it is a waste of energy. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:00 Intro and Weekly Catch-Up 00:03:52 The Boys Series Finale Review 00:25:27 The Mandalorian and Grogu Review 00:47:01 Interview With Paul Sun-Hyung Lee 01:20:55 Rapid Fire Questions 01:24:06 Network Updates and Weekly Recommendations Key Takeaways The Boys finale earned an 8 out of 10 from both hosts, with the full series landing at a 9, praised for ending on a hopeful note that the good guys can actually win if they stick together. Homelander losing his powers reveals who he always was underneath the facade, a takedown the hosts rank among the best villain endings on TV, even if the way he lost them through Kimiko felt like a quick fix. The Mandalorian and Grogu works as crowd-pleasing, kid-friendly Star Wars but lacks a real character arc, scoring around a 6 to 7 with both hosts feeling it plays like several episodes cut together. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee approaches adaptation by serving the scripts rather than chasing deep lore, and the live action Avatar gives Iroh a real reckoning for his role in the siege of Ba Sing Se that the cartoon glossed over. Carson Teva works because audiences connect with the grounded everyman in a universe full of Jedi, a role compared to Nick Fury, Agent Coulson, and even R2-D2. Kim's Convenience remains a point of deep pride for Lee, who still wishes fans had gotten the Appa and Jung reconciliation from the original play, but stands by going out on top. Quotes "When those were stripped away, he no longer could act like the same person." (Thomas, on Homelander) "The good guys can just straight up win." (Frank, on the finale's message) "We're so specifically Korean that it becomes universal." (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, on Kim's Convenience) "If you don't watch it, you can't talk smack about it." (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, on hating something unseen) "Go out on top if you're going to go out." (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, on ending Kim's Convenience) Call to Action If you enjoyed this one, subscribe so you never miss an episode, leave us a review wherever you listen, and share it with a friend who needs convincing on the finale. Tag us and join the conversation using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed during the podcast. Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Listener Questions Got a hot take on The Boys finale, a defense of The Mandalorian and Grogu, or a question for a future guest? Send us your reactions, questions, and topic ideas. We read them, and your suggestion might shape an upcoming episode. Apple Podcast Tags The Boys, The Boys finale, Homelander, Butcher, Kimiko, Eric Kripke, The Mandalorian and Grogu, Star Wars, Grogu, Pedro Pascal, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Uncle Iroh, Avatar The Last Airbender, Netflix Avatar, Captain Carson Teva, Kim's Convenience, geek culture, pop culture podcast, TV reviews, movie reviews, Geek Freaks /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41434080

Lanterns Trailer Theories, Westworld’s Return, and Punisher: One Last Kill Review 05/19/2026

Lanterns Trailer Theories, Westworld’s Return, and Punisher: One Last Kill Review Geek Freaks is back with a packed episode covering the latest Lanterns trailer, the return of Westworld, new release dates for VisionQuest and Crystal Lake, and a full review of Punisher: One Last Kill. Frank and Squeaks break down what the new DC footage could mean for Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and the larger Green Lantern mythology. The episode also gets into what a new Westworld movie needs to do differently from the HBO series, how VisionQuest could bring Ultron and Wanda back into play, and whether a Deathstroke and Bane movie could actually work as a darker action comedy. The back half shifts into Punisher: One Last Kill, Dungeon Crawler Carl, network updates, and weekly recommendations. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Back in the Studio!, CCS Recap, and Convention Stories 02:35 Question of the Week: Posters and Box Art That Started a Fandom 05:08 Lanterns Trailer Reaction and Green Lantern Theories 16:25 Westworld Movie Announcement and Franchise Potential 25:00 VisionQuest and Crystal Lake Release Date Discussion 31:42 Deathstroke and Bane Movie Talk 37:26 Punisher: One Last Kill Review 44:24 Dungeon Crawler Carl, Network Updates, and Weekly Recommendations Key Takeaways The new Lanterns trailer sparked a big discussion about whether the show can balance grounded detective drama with the cosmic scale fans expect from Green Lantern. Frank and Squeaks dig into Hal Jordan, John Stewart, Guy Gardner, and the possibility that the series could explore the morality and purpose of the Green Lantern Corps. The newly announced Westworld movie has Frank excited because the franchise can work as a smaller survival story set against a much bigger sci-fi collapse. VisionQuest and Crystal Lake landing back-to-back in October could make for a huge week of Marvel and horror viewing. The Deathstroke and Bane movie raises questions about tone, especially with Greg Mottola’s comedy background, but the hosts see potential if it leans into a Suicide Squad style dynamic. Punisher: One Last Kill earns praise for its action, Jon Bernthal’s performance, and emotional shift for Frank Castle, though Frank wanted more story before the ending. Quotes “Some of these games are just developed by one person, and what they do with that lack of help is phenomenal.” “That’s the Lanterns trailer they should have released first.” “I think that’s the button we’re going to see: what is the morality of Green Lanterns?” “We got bad taste with how the HBO series ended, but I think we all fell in love with how it started.” “The action was phenomenal. The killings were great. It got straight to the point.” Subscribe to Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts, leave a review, and share the episode with your friends using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Your reviews and shares help more fans find the show and join the conversation. Links and Resources Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all news discussed during the podcast, plus reviews, interviews, and more from the Geek Freaks Network. Follow Us Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Patreon: GeekFreakspodcast Listener Questions Send in your reactions, questions, and future topic ideas. What did you think of the new Lanterns trailer, and are you more excited for VisionQuest or Crystal Lake this October? Marvel, DC, Green Lantern, Lanterns, Westworld, VisionQuest, Crystal Lake, Punisher, Deathstroke, Bane, Geek Culture, Comic Books, Movies, TV Reviews, Entertainment News, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41348765

Capital Creative Showcase 2026: Sacramento Indie Games, Tabletop Design, and Creator Interviews 05/12/2026

Capital Creative Showcase 2026: Sacramento Indie Games, Tabletop Design, and Creator Interviews Capital Creative Showcase brought Sacramento’s creative scene together, and this episode captures the energy right from the floor. Frank sits down with four different creators working across video games and tabletop games, giving listeners a closer look at how indie teams build, test, balance, and refine their projects. The episode features Kim from Ghost Hunter Simulator, Sarah from Wizard Cleaning Simulator, Keoni from Seize Gilded Treasures, and Mike from Legends of the Arena. Each conversation highlights a different side of development, from player choice and cozy horror to small-team production, card balance, community building, character design, and why live playtesting matters so much for creators. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Capital Creative Showcase recap and event overview 01:09 Interview: Kim on Ghost Hunter Simulator and player choice 15:17 Interview: Sarah on Wizard Cleaning Simulator and small-team indie development 24:59 Interview: Keoni on Seize Gilded Treasures, card balance, and community building 41:37 Interview: Mike on Legends of the Arena and building a Smash-inspired tabletop game 52:30 Final thoughts on CCS, playtesting, and Sacramento’s creator community Key Takeaways Capital Creative Showcase gave local video game and tabletop developers a space to show their work, gather feedback, and connect directly with players. Ghost Hunter Simulator stands out by letting players decide whether ghosts are real, changing how they interpret evidence and approach the game. Wizard Cleaning Simulator started from a game jam idea and grew into a cozy magical cleaning game built by a small art-focused team. Seize Gilded Treasures blends trading card game mechanics with board movement, creating a strategy layer where positioning matters as much as card text. Legends of the Arena aims to capture the feel of a fast, competitive fighting game in a tabletop format built around reads, anticipation, and quick matches. Across all four interviews, playtesting comes through as one of the biggest tools for improving balance, clarity, pacing, and player experience. Memorable Quotes “If we wanted this game to exist, it had to be us.” “Indie games get to be so much more experimental.” “We joke that the three of us make one junior programmer.” “The difference between this and a lot of other trading card games was the tabletop and the fact that we’re able to move.” “We lean really heavily into the fighting game idea of reading and anticipation.” Call to Action Subscribe to Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who loves indie games, tabletop games, or behind-the-scenes creator stories. Share your thoughts on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed on Geek Freaks. Featured in this episode: , , and Follow Us Twitter: Instagram: Threads: Facebook: Patreon: Listener Questions Send in your questions, reactions, or future topic ideas for Geek Freaks. We want to hear what indie games, tabletop games, local creators, and conventions you think we should cover next. Geek Freaks, Capital Creative Showcase, Sacramento games, indie games, tabletop games, board games, video game developers, game design, Ghost Hunter Simulator, Wizard Cleaning Simulator, Seize Gilded Treasures, Legends of the Arena, geek culture, gaming podcast, creator interviews, Sacramento creators /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41260810

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 Finale Review, Spider-Man Theories, and the Future of Street-Level Marvel 05/07/2026

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 Finale Review, Spider-Man Theories, and the Future of Street-Level Marvel EPISODE SUMMARY The Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 finale gave fans a lot to process, from Matt Murdock’s public downfall to Kingpin’s collapse and the possible setup for a much bigger street-level Marvel story. Frank is joined by Megan from Vigilante Vibes and Thomas to break down what worked, what felt messy, and why this season may be the strongest version of Born Again so far. The conversation covers comic book connections like Devil on Cell Block D, Bullseye’s future, Heather and Muse, BB’s role as a rising journalist, and how Spider-Man, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, The Hand, Typhoid Mary, and even Mayor Luke Cage could factor into what comes next. The crew also digs into the courtroom scene, the hallway fight, New York as a living part of the story, and whether Marvel should keep Daredevil in his own corner or bring him deeper into the MCU. TIMESTAMPS AND TOPICS - 00:00 Introduction and Megan’s First Reaction to Season 2 - 01:04 Devil on Cell Block D, Matt’s Arrest, and Daredevil’s Identity - 03:10 BB, Journalism, Peter Parker, and Street-Level Marvel Connections - 08:16 Bullseye, Mr. Charles, and Marvel’s Grounded Villains - 11:26 Heather, Muse, Lady Muse, and Darker Comic Book Influences - 14:33 Spider-Man, The Hand, Elektra, and Season 3 Theories - 18:04 The Rose, Typhoid Mary, Buck, and Kingpin’s Future - 19:38 Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk’s Complicated Relationship - 23:10 Thomas Joins, CGI Talk, and the Finale’s Action Scenes - 25:16 The Hallway Fight, New York Rising, and White Tiger - 28:35 The Courtroom Scene and Matt’s Legal Strategy - 33:58 New York as a Character and the MCU’s Street-Level Future - 44:00 Favorite and Least Favorite Moments From the Season - 52:00 Final Scores, Fan Reactions, Foggy, and Closing Thoughts KEY TAKEAWAYS - Megan felt Season 2 raised the stakes, leaned more into the comics, and showed the actors had a stronger grip on their characters. - The group spent a lot of time on Matt’s arrest and the idea that the show may be setting up a Devil on Cell Block D style story. - BB stood out as one of the season’s strongest additions, with the potential to become a major street-level MCU connector through journalism, Peter Parker, and the wider New York media world. - The finale’s courtroom scene was one of the biggest highlights, giving Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio a strong showcase while pushing the season’s themes about masks, power, and public truth. - The crew liked how the season made New York feel alive again, especially through the city rising against Kingpin’s system and the anti-vigilante task force. - Final scores landed strong overall: Thomas gave the finale a 7 out of 10 but the season a 9 out of 10, Frank gave the season an 8 out of 10, and Megan gave it a 10 out of 10. QUOTES “Season two really upped the ante a lot, and it’s a lot more comic accurate.” “BB won the battle that killed her uncle.” “Just because they both can aim good doesn’t make them the same character.” “This was the city of New York rising, all doing their own hallway scene.” “The court scenes are so integral to who Daredevil is as a character.” “This feels like a New York that is the home to heroes.” CALL TO ACTION Subscribe to Geek Freaks for more Marvel, DC, gaming, and geek culture conversations. Leave a review, share the episode with a friend, and post your thoughts on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. LINKS AND RESOURCES GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed during the podcast. FOLLOW US Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast Threads: https://www.threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/geekfreakspod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geekfreakspodcast/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast LISTENER QUESTIONS What did you think of the Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 finale? Send us your reactions, theories, and future topic ideas for the next episode. APPLE PODCAST TAGS Daredevil Born Again, Daredevil, Marvel, MCU, Spider-Man, Kingpin, Matt Murdock, Wilson Fisk, Bullseye, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Marvel Television, Geek Freaks Podcast, comic book TV, superhero shows, street-level Marvel, Disney Plus, Marvel reviews /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41198885

Resident Evil Returns to Horror Trailer Reaction with Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine Voice Actors 05/06/2026

Resident Evil Returns to Horror Trailer Reaction with Chris Redfield and Jill Valentine Voice Actors Resident Evil fans get a packed episode this week with a live trailer reaction from Rancho Cordova Gaming Expo and two standout interviews from Game On Expo. Frank, Phil, and Jonathan break down why the new Resident Evil movie trailer feels closer to survival horror than past film adaptations, focusing on fear, suspense, body horror, and what makes a video game adaptation actually work. Then Tyler sits down with Joe White, the voice of Chris Redfield, and Heidi Anderson Swan, the voice of Jill Valentine, for conversations about their paths into voice acting, the unexpected legacy of Resident Evil, and how performances recorded decades ago still connect with fans today. The episode closes with Joe and Heidi together, reflecting on old-school game recording, convention culture, and the lasting charm of the original Resident Evil era. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and Rancho Cordova Gaming Expo Setup 01:32 Resident Evil Trailer First Reactions 04:38 Survival Horror, Suspense, and What Past Movies Missed 06:00 Video Game Adaptations, Fallout, The Last of Us, and Silent Hill 09:08 Franchise Pressure, Authenticity, and Nostalgia in Adaptations 13:43 Guest Interview: Joe White on Chris Redfield, Disney, SpongeBob, and Voice Acting 28:22 Guest Interview: Heidi Anderson Swan on Jill Valentine and Resident Evil’s Legacy 41:31 Bonus Interview: Joe White and Heidi Anderson Swan on Recording Separately and Resident Evil’s Lasting Charm Key Takeaways The new Resident Evil trailer stood out because it leaned into suspense, fear, and atmosphere instead of relying only on gore or action. The panel discussed why a strong video game adaptation does not always need to retell the exact game story, as long as it feels authentic to that world. Joe White shared how he unexpectedly became the voice of Chris Redfield after starting at Disney as a 3D modeler and doing scratch dialogue. Heidi Anderson Swan reflected on Jill Valentine’s importance as a tough, capable survival horror hero who did not need saving. Both interviews highlighted how voice acting has changed since the early days of video games, especially when actors recorded alone without seeing or hearing the other performances. Joe and Heidi both emphasized that Resident Evil’s fan community has given new meaning to work they never expected to become iconic. Quotes “Everything about it just evoked fear.” “I want a new story that lives in that universe.” “What fans want is authenticity.” “Chris Redfield is really just me, maybe a little bit more dramatic.” “It’s a gift of a lifetime.” “She didn’t need saving. And that’s what makes her so cool.” Call to Action Subscribe to Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts, leave a review to help more fans find the show, and share this episode on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the news discussed during the podcast. Follow Us Facebook: Threads: Twitter: Instagram: Patreon: Listener Questions Send in your reactions to the new Resident Evil trailer, your favorite video game adaptation, or the Resident Evil character you want to see get more attention in future movies, shows, or games. Resident Evil, Resident Evil movie, Resident Evil trailer, Chris Redfield, Jill Valentine, survival horror, video game adaptations, Game On Expo, Rancho Cordova Gaming Expo, voice acting, Capcom, horror movies, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41172255

Xbox’s Future, Invincible Season 4 Hits Big, Clayface Goes Horror, and Reboot Central 04/29/2026

Xbox’s Future, Invincible Season 4 Hits Big, Clayface Goes Horror, and Reboot Central Clayface is stepping into full horror territory, and Frank and Squeaks break down why that could be exactly what DC needs. The episode also covers a packed week of reboots and adaptations, including FernGully, The Phantom, Django/Zorro, RoboCop, Battlefield, and Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced. The back half shifts into a spoiler-heavy Invincible Season 4 review, with a big focus on Thragg, Mark’s impossible choices, and the emotional weight of Atom Eve’s storyline. Frank and Squeaks also dig into Xbox’s future, Game Pass changes, the return of stronger Xbox branding, and whether the next console can make fans excited again. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Avengers: Endgame 7-Year Anniversary and Favorite Character Arcs 03:05 Capital Creative Showcase and Convention Updates 04:02 Clayface Trailer Discussion and DC Horror Potential 08:27 FernGully, The Phantom, Django/Zorro, and RoboCop Reboots 16:35 Battlefield Movie and Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced 25:28 Invincible Season 4 Spoiler Review 40:01 Xbox’s Future, Game Pass Changes, Project Helix, and Brand Identity 59:21 Network Updates, Recommendations, and Closing Key Takeaways Frank and Squeaks look back at Avengers: Endgame seven years later, highlighting Steve Rogers, Nebula, Black Widow, Hawkeye, and the idea of a Ronin video game. The Clayface trailer sparked a strong reaction because it feels more like a horror movie than a standard DC or Batman-adjacent story. Reboots dominate the news cycle, with mixed reactions to FernGully, The Phantom, RoboCop, Django/Zorro, and Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced. The Battlefield movie conversation centers on how it can separate itself from Call of Duty and other military films by leaning into large-scale, multi-front battles. The Invincible Season 4 review praises Thragg as a major villain, explores Mark’s moral limits, and gives the season a 9 out of 10 from both hosts. The Xbox discussion focuses on Game Pass pricing, exclusives, Project Helix, and whether Xbox can rebuild its identity as a console brand. Memorable Quotes “Give me a Ronin video game. I think that’d be dope.” “This needs to be treated as a full-on horror movie.” “Why would McDonald’s lose the Golden Arches? You guys are doing that right now.” “Mark’s weakness is the fact that he’s a good person.” “I’m excited to be a fanboy again.” Call to Action Subscribe to Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share the episode with #GeekFreaksPodcast. Reviews help more listeners find the show, and Frank may read your review on a future episode. Links and Resources Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all Geek Freaks news, reviews, interviews, and updates. GeekFreaksPodcast.com is also the source of all news discussed during the podcast. Transcript source: uploaded GF2 transcript. Follow Us Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Listener Questions Send in your reactions to the Clayface trailer, your thoughts on Xbox’s future, and whether Invincible Season 4 earned that 9 out of 10. You can also send future topic ideas for upcoming Geek Freaks episodes. Geek culture, entertainment news, DC Comics, Clayface, Batman, Xbox, Game Pass, Invincible, Prime Video, Assassin’s Creed, Battlefield, RoboCop, FernGully, The Phantom, Django Zorro, video game movies, comic book movies, geek news, movie news, gaming news, podcast, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/41057810

Big CinemaCon Reveals, Avatar Controversy, and the Story Behind Mostly Dead 04/22/2026

Big CinemaCon Reveals, Avatar Controversy, and the Story Behind Mostly Dead Episode Summary This week on Geek Freaks, Frank and Thomas kick things off with Patreon updates, convention plans, and a quick catch-up before getting into one of the messier stories in animation right now: the leaked Avatar: The Last Airbender movie. From there, the episode turns into a big CinemaCon conversation covering Mortal Kombat 2, Street Fighter, The Hunt for Gollum, Godzilla Minus One, Resident Evil, The Mandalorian, Avengers: Doomsday, and more. In the second half, Frank sits down with comic creator Allan Dunford to talk about Mostly Dead, a spooky and heartfelt new comic that blends horror, mystery, and all-ages charm. Allan breaks down the story, the inspirations behind it, and why books like this matter in the indie comics world. It’s a packed episode with movie talk, industry conversation, and a strong creator interview all in one place. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro, Patreon, and Convention Updates 04:05 Avatar: The Last Airbender Leak Discussion 09:22 CinemaCon Reactions and Movie Talk 51:31 Allan Dunford Interview: Mostly Dead 1:12:30 Network Updates and Event Reminder 1:13:02 Recommendation of the Week 1:18:04 Outro Key Takeaways The Avatar leak turns into a bigger conversation about how animation projects and their creators are valued. Frank and Thomas spend most of the episode reacting to major CinemaCon reveals and what they could mean for theaters and fandom. Mortal Kombat 2, Godzilla Minus One, Resident Evil, and Avengers: Doomsday are some of the biggest excitement points in the episode. Allan Dunford describes Mostly Dead as a spooky, fun, emotional comic with influences from ParaNorman, Monster House, and Evil Dead. The interview also gives a nice look at why indie comics still matter and how creators build something new from the ground up. Memorable Quotes “2D animation has a home. Trust it.” “The only way to save face at this point is to put it in theaters.” “No limits. You can make an idea as crazy or as tame as you want it to be.” “Finding your audience.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share the episode with a friend. If you want early releases and extra content, support us on Patreon and keep up with everything happening across the Geek Freaks network using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source for all news discussed during our podcast. Mostly Dead is available now, so be sure to check out Allan Dunford’s new book. Follow Us Follow Geek Freaks for more news, reviews, interviews, and convention coverage. Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Listener Questions What was your biggest CinemaCon takeaway? Which movie announcement are you most excited about right now? Does Mostly Dead sound like a comic you’d pick up? CinemaCon, Allan Dunford, Mostly Dead, indie comics, comic book interview, Avatar The Last Airbender, Mortal Kombat 2, Street Fighter, The Hunt for Gollum, Godzilla Minus One, Resident Evil, The Mandalorian, Avengers Doomsday, Geek Freaks Podcast, entertainment news, geek culture podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40970620

CinemaCon Reactions, Spider-Man Rumors, Daredevil Leaks, and The Boys Breakdown 04/14/2026

CinemaCon Reactions, Spider-Man Rumors, Daredevil Leaks, and The Boys Breakdown Frank and Squeaks are back with a packed episode covering the biggest movie, TV, and gaming stories making noise right now. They kick things off with a fast-moving CinemaCon roundup that hits Jumanji, Beyond the Spider-Verse, Zelda, Bloodborne, Resident Evil, anime in theaters, and Spider-Man: Brand New Day before shifting into a full trailer discussion for The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. From there, they get into Daredevil: Born Again leak talk, Avatar movie reactions, Disney and Epic Games rumors, Mortal Kombat 2, Punisher: One Last Kill, and a long review-heavy discussion on The Boys. It is the kind of episode built for fans who want news, theories, and strong opinions all in one place. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 Intro, what they’ve been reading and playing, plus a tease for the upcoming Victor Barro interview about the Panels app 02:19 CinemaCon round-up featuring Jumanji, Beyond the Spider-Verse, Zelda, Bloodborne, Resident Evil, anime theatrical releases, and Spider-Man: Brand New Day 14:05 The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping trailer breakdown 18:21 Daredevil: Born Again leak talk, prison theories, and street-level Marvel speculation 23:26 Avatar: The Last Airbender movie leak reactions and animation discussion 25:22 Disney and Epic Games rumors, Fortnite, Disney Infinity, and what a merger could mean for games 29:57 Mortal Kombat 2 trailer reactions and why it already feels stronger than Street Fighter 35:06 Punisher: One Last Kill trailer breakdown and where Frank Castle fits in the MCU now 37:42 The Boys review, character arcs, likely deaths, and what is working best this season 50:29 Black Noir comic spoilers and whether the show could still pull off its biggest twist 53:52 Victor Barro interview begins, including the Panels app, DRM-free comics, indie creators, and the future of the platform 01:25:04 Quick Invincible thoughts and final reactions 01:25:54 Outro, review request, and Capital Creative Showcase plug Key Takeaways: This episode moves fast and covers a wide range of major fandom topics without losing the personal back-and-forth that makes the show fun. The CinemaCon segment gives listeners a strong one-stop update on several high-interest movie and franchise stories. The Marvel section is one of the biggest hooks here, especially the Daredevil and Spider-Man speculation. The Boys conversation gives the episode a strong second half and should hit well with listeners looking for review-heavy discussion. Frank and Squeaks keep the tone casual, funny, and opinionated, which helps the episode feel more like hanging out than getting a news dump. Memorable Quotes: “Why is he not taking photos?” “Mortal Kombat is taking itself seriously in the right way.” “This is going to be the bridge that pulls him from Netflix to MCU.” “There’s some really good stuff out there.” Call to Action: If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share the episode with #GeekFreaksPodcast. Reviews help more listeners find the show, and your support really makes a difference. Links and Resources: Check out the Panels App: https://www.panels.app/ GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed during our podcast. Check the episode description for links related to the Panels app, bonus reviews, and anything else mentioned during the show. Follow Us: Follow Geek Freaks for more news, reviews, interviews, and episode updates. Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: The Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions: Got thoughts on CinemaCon, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Daredevil, The Boys, or Punisher? Send us your questions and topic ideas for a future episode. Apple Podcast Tags: Geek culture, CinemaCon, Spider-Man Brand New Day, Daredevil Born Again, The Boys, Punisher One Last Kill, The Hunger Games Sunrise on the Reaping, Avatar The Last Airbender, Mortal Kombat 2, Beyond the Spider-Verse, Zelda movie, Resident Evil movie, Bloodborne, Marvel podcast, movie news, TV reviews, gaming news, pop culture podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40878680

Sticks and Stones Holiday Special Brings Family, Mystery, and Heart to the Table | Interview with Aaron Cohen and Alex Schumacher 04/05/2026

Sticks and Stones Holiday Special Brings Family, Mystery, and Heart to the Table | Interview with Aaron Cohen and Alex Schumacher Frank sits down with Aaron Cohen and Alex Schumacher to talk about Sticks and Stones: Holiday Special, a new comic centered on the Feynman family and their holiday misadventures. The conversation gets into how Passover, Hanukkah, and Purim shaped the book, why Ben makes such a strong lead, and how the team blends Jewish specificity with themes that feel familiar to anyone who grew up in a loud, loving family. Aaron and Alex also break down the book’s comic strip DNA, the warmth behind its humor, and why this world has room to grow far beyond holiday stories. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Introduction and welcoming Aaron Cohen and Alex Shoemaker 00:37 What Sticks and Stones: Holiday Special is about, the Feynman family, and why releasing during Passover feels right 02:12 Representation, family traditions, and how the story connects Jewish identity with universal family experiences 03:29 Visual inspiration behind the book, including Sunday newspaper strips, classic cartooning, and old-school comic energy 05:41 Family memories, Passover traditions, and how real holiday experiences shaped the tone of the story 07:37 Why Passover felt like the perfect setup for a mystery story 08:09 Comic strip storytelling, all-ages humor, and the influence of books the whole family can enjoy together 09:45 Ben’s deeper motivation and why wanting a seat at the adult table gives the story emotional weight 11:09 Ben’s oversized suit, kid noir energy, and how his design reflects a child trying to act bigger than he is 12:18 Why Ben became the center of the story and how his imagination drives the whole book 15:03 Expanding the Feynman family, new characters, and future story possibilities 16:26 Protecting family, immigrant community parallels, and why the book feels relatable beyond one specific culture 22:38 Ralph’s coloring, visual warmth, and how the page design supports the story’s emotional center 28:47 Future plans for Sticks and Stones beyond holiday stories 32:30 Final thoughts on Ben and the larger story potential of this world 32:54 Rapid fire questions, favorite characters, and what holiday the family should tackle next Key Takeaways Sticks and Stones: Holiday Special uses Passover, Hanukkah, and Purim to tell one connected family story. Ben works as a lead because he sees himself as the star of his own detective movie, which gives the book a playful inner voice. The creative team wanted the comic to feel deeply Jewish while still speaking to anyone who has experienced a big, chaotic family gathering. The visual style pulls from classic newspaper strips, animation, and old all-ages comics. Humor is treated as an act of love, not just a punchline, which gives the book its warmth. The team clearly sees this family as a long-term storytelling world, not just a one-off holiday concept. Future stories could move beyond holidays and into everyday family life, school stories, and more character-focused adventures. Memorable Quotes “There's something universal in specificity.” “Ten people around a long table for two hours is a great place for a murder mystery.” “What he really wants ultimately is to be respected and be a part of the family and to be at the adult table and be taken seriously.” “You don't joke with someone and you don't gag with someone who you don't care about.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave us a review, and share the episode on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. That support helps more listeners find the show and keeps these conversations going. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com This is the source of all news discussed during our podcast. Check out Follow Us Follow Geek Freaks for more interviews, reviews, and geek culture coverage. Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions Have a question, guest suggestion, or topic you want us to cover in a future episode? Send it our way and let us know what you want to hear next. Sticks and Stones, Holiday Special, Aaron Cohen, Alex Shoemaker, comic books, indie comics, Jewish comics, Passover, Hanukkah, Purim, family comics, all ages comics, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40737850

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 Premiere Breakdown, Star Fox Joins Mario, and Zelda Remake Rumors 03/31/2026

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 Premiere Breakdown, Star Fox Joins Mario, and Zelda Remake Rumors Episode Summary: Frank and Squeaks jump around a pretty fun mix of topics this week, starting with Star Fox officially showing up in the new Mario movie and the rumor that both a new Star Fox game and an Ocarina of Time remake could be on the way. They also get into the new Moana live-action trailer and whether Disney may finally be figuring out how to handle these remakes. The back half of the episode turns into a full spoiler discussion on the Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 premiere, with thoughts on Matt, Fisk, Bullseye, White Tiger, and where the season could be headed next. Timestamps: 00:00 Frank and Squeaks open the show and talk about spring break 00:44 Capital Creative Showcase details and ticket code 01:40 Patreon shoutout and bonus perks 02:00 Star Fox is officially in the new Mario movie 06:37 Rumors of a new Star Fox game and an Ocarina of Time remake 12:13 What a modern Star Fox game should actually be 14:14 Moana live action trailer reactions 23:36 Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 spoiler talk begins 24:35 Does the season already have too many characters? 33:05 White Tiger, Karen Page, and what Matt is becoming 36:43 Bullseye, redemption, and the bigger picture this season 42:53 Final score for the Daredevil premiere 43:40 A few network updates and what’s coming up 44:19 Comic recommendation of the week 45:53 Frank’s pick: women’s tackle football and the Golden State Storm 48:11 Outro What We Get Into: Star Fox being part of the Mario movie feels like Nintendo is slowly building something bigger without rushing into a giant crossover. Frank and Squeaks also talk about why Ocarina of Time could be the exact kind of game that gets more people to finally buy a Switch 2, especially if Nintendo keeps the remake pretty faithful. On the Star Fox side, they both seem to want something that mixes the old arcade style with a little more modern exploration. The Moana trailer gets a better reaction than expected too, mostly because it looks like Disney may actually be sticking closer to what worked in the original. Then the episode really settles into Daredevil, with both of them liking the darker tone, the action, and the way the premiere leans harder into the comic book side of the character. They both end up at an 8 out of 10 on the episode. Quotes: “Not everything needs to be MCU.” “This is that game, in my opinion.” “Moana has got a chance of being a really good standalone movie.” “We are getting closer to what it feels like to have a Daredevil comic in your hand.” “In the end, it’s still just Vincent D’Onofrio versus Charlie Cox.” Listen and Join the Conversation: If you’re enjoying the show, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, leave us a review, and share the episode with #GeekFreaksPodcast. It helps a ton and helps more people find the show. Links and Resources: Head over to GeekFreaksPodcast.com for more geek news and updates. That’s our main news source for everything we cover on the show. You can also support us on Patreon for early episodes, bonus content, and occasional promo code drops. Follow Us: Follow Geek Freaks on Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Facebook, and Patreon to keep up with new episodes, news reactions, and everything else we’ve got going on. Got Thoughts? Let us know what you thought about Star Fox in the Mario movie, whether Zelda rumors like this would push you toward a Switch 2, and where you landed on the Daredevil premiere. Apple Podcast Tags: Daredevil Born Again, Daredevil Season 2, Marvel, Kingpin, Bullseye, White Tiger, Star Fox, Super Mario Movie, Nintendo, Zelda, Ocarina of Time, Switch 2, Moana, Disney, Geek culture, Comic books, TV reviews, Gaming /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40672195

Spider-Man’s Mutation, Dune's Next Era, and the Daredevil: Born Again S2 Pre-Game 03/24/2026

Spider-Man’s Mutation, Dune's Next Era, and the Daredevil: Born Again S2 Pre-Game Why Listen? Find out why Peter Parker’s body might be failing him in the newest trailer and which secret X-Men cameo just changed the trajectory of the MCU. Whether you are curious about the "Man-Spider" theory or the political fallout of Wilson Fisk’s mayoralty, this episode provides the deep-dive analysis you need to stay ahead of the curve. What You’ll Learn The Man-Spider Theory: Evidence of Peter Parker’s mutating body and organic web-shooters. MCU Mutants: The subtle clues pointing to Sadie Sink as the MCU’s Jean Grey. The Golden Path: Why Paul Atreides’ journey in Dune is darker than you think. Kingpin’s New Era: What to expect from the premiere of Daredevil: Born Again Season 2. Is Peter Parker Mutating into Man-Spider? In this episode, Frank and Squeaks break down the high-octane Spider-Man: Brave New World trailer. We explore the haunting theory that Peter’s powers are evolving—or decaying—into something more monstrous. With Peter increasingly isolated and stalking his old friends, the stakes have never been more personal. We also look at the Hulk’s mysterious arm brace and what it means for the return of a more "Savage" version of the character. Did the X-Men Just Secretly Arrive in the MCU? The nerd world is buzzing about a specific jacket seen in the trailer. Could Sadie Sink be playing a young Jean Grey, or is this another Black Cat bait-and-switch? We analyze the visual evidence and discuss how the MCU is slowly "dropping" mutants into the narrative without a formal announcement. We also spot some deep-cut comic villains like Boomerang and Tarantula that suggest a more grounded, street-level focus for this installment. How Will Dune Handle the Terror of Face Dancers? Shifting gears to Arrakis, we dive into the latest Dune footage. The focus shifts to the terrifying "Face Dancers"—shapeshifters who can infiltrate any organization. We discuss the "Golden Path" and Paul Atreides’ realization that his rise to power will be paved with blood. This segment explores the psychological horror elements being brought to the forefront of the sci-fi epic. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:00 - Introductions and Patreon shoutouts. 00:01:13 - Spider-Man: Brave New World trailer reaction. 00:03:10 - Peter Parker’s mutation and the "Man-Spider" theory. 00:07:53 - Analyzying the Sadie Sink / Jean Grey cameo clues. 00:15:09 - Dune trailer breakdown: Face Dancers and the Golden Path. 00:26:58 - Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 Pre-Game and Kingpin’s empire. 00:46:00 - Recommendation of the Week: Primal by Genndy Tartakovsky. Key Takeaways Isolated Hero: Peter Parker’s "fresh start" has left him more vulnerable and potentially more dangerous as he struggles with his changing biology. The Mutant Blueprint: The MCU is likely using background characters to establish X-Men lore before the formal team-up. Political Warfare: Daredevil Season 2 isn't just about fighting; it’s about Wilson Fisk legitimizing his power through the Mayor’s office. Sci-Fi Horror: Dune is leaning heavily into the "Face Dancer" shapeshifting lore, which adds a layer of paranoia to Paul’s journey. Quotes "I think a lot of people wanted a grounded Spider-Man, but we're also kind of getting this isolated Spider-Man as well." "Imagine if Fisk was handing that key over instead of her. I'd lose my damn mind." "He knows the golden path is going to be laid in blood. He has to conquer the universe first." Call to Action Follow the show right now so you never miss a theory! If you enjoyed this breakdown, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts and share this episode on social media using the hashtag #GeekFreaks. Your support helps us climb the charts and keep the lights on in the nerd-cave. Links and Resources HELP OUR FRIENDS IN HAWAII: Source Website: GeekFreaksPodcast.com Searchable Transcripts: Related Episode: Our Dune Part 2 Deep Dive (Check our archive) Follow Us Stay connected with the crew! TikTok/Instagram/X: @GeekFreaksPod Join our community on Discord to discuss the latest trailers. Listener Questions Is Paul Atreides a hero or a villain in your eyes? Do you think Sadie Sink is playing Jean Grey? Send your theories and questions to our social handles or via our website to be featured in next week’s episode! Spider-Man, Marvel, MCU, Dune, Daredevil, Kingpin, Hulk, Jean Grey, X-Men, Primal, Genndy Tartakovsky, Podcast, Nerd News, Movie Trailers. /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40575390

Firefly Returns, Prime Video Pushback, One Piece Season 2 Review, and World of Warcraft: Midnight Reactions 03/17/2026

Firefly Returns, Prime Video Pushback, One Piece Season 2 Review, and World of Warcraft: Midnight Reactions Frank is joined by Scott for a packed episode that jumps from Hollywood headlines to deep-dive reviews. The conversation opens with a fun Question of the Week about how the Oscars could feel more relevant, then shifts into the latest talk around a possible Firefly animated revival, The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, and Amazon putting key Prime Video features behind a higher-priced tier. In the back half, Frank and Scott get into full review mode with One Piece Season 2 and World of Warcraft: Midnight, comparing what works, what frustrates them, and why both projects still have them invested. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and welcoming Scott back to the show 00:15 Question of the Week: what new Oscars category would make the awards more relevant? 03:02 Nathan Fillion says a Firefly animated series is in development 07:35 The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum and Kate Winslet joining the cast 11:44 Amazon Prime Video puts 4K and premium features behind a pricier ad-free tier 15:23 One Piece Season 2 review and why the live-action series keeps winning them over 31:15 Quick sponsor mention for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3 home release 31:54 World of Warcraft: Midnight review, zone impressions, nostalgia, and housing talk 40:18 Geek Freaks Network updates and what else is happening across the shows 41:23 Weekly recommendations, including One Piece, Star Trek, and Invincible 42:26 Outro Episode Summary This week’s episode balances fun fandom talk with real critique. Frank and Scott debate whether the Oscars need categories tied more closely to online culture and cultural impact, then get into the surprising news that Firefly may be returning in animated form. From there, they discuss how much excitement there really is for a new Lord of the Rings film centered on Gollum, especially with Kate Winslet now attached. The Prime Video pricing conversation turns into a bigger discussion about streaming fatigue and what audiences are willing to pay for. The second half is driven by reviews. Frank and Scott are both enthusiastic about One Piece Season 2, praising how the live-action adaptation embraces the weirdness, heart, and adventure of the anime while still feeling accessible. They also break down World of Warcraft: Midnight, highlighting the strength of Silvermoon, the unevenness of certain zones, and Blizzard’s growing sense of confidence even when every choice does not fully land. Key Takeaways Frank thinks the Oscars could use a category centered on cultural impact, especially for blockbusters and genre films. Scott likes the idea of bringing in younger audiences through categories tied to online filmmaking and long-form digital content. A Firefly animated revival feels like a compromise, but maybe the right one given the cast’s age and the current strength of adult animation. Frank is surprised that The Hunt for Gollum is not generating more conversation, especially for a new Lord of the Rings movie. Prime Video’s new pricing structure feels like another example of streaming services pushing viewers too far. One Piece Season 2 won both hosts over by fully committing to the tone, style, and emotional logic of the anime. Scott gives One Piece Season 2 a 10/10, while Frank lands at a 9/10 because the fun outweighs nearly every complaint. World of Warcraft: Midnight earns a 7/10 from both hosts, with strong atmosphere and story beats but uneven feature execution. Silvermoon is one of the biggest highlights of Midnight, especially for longtime Horde players. Housing in Midnight got plenty of attention before launch, but neither host seems deeply invested in it yet. Memorable Quotes “I would go with a category that’s like cultural impact.” “When they said they were making a live action One Piece, I was like, there’s no way this works.” “It’s just pure escapism.” “When you see it, you’ll see it.” “You have to just believe in magic a little bit.” “They took what Silvermoon was supposed to be and finally made it.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the show on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Every share helps more listeners find the show and join the conversation. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com This is the source for all news discussed during the podcast. Follow Us Follow Geek Freaks and stay connected with everything happening across the network: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: The Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freakspodcast Listener Questions Got thoughts on Firefly, One Piece Season 2, or World of Warcraft: Midnight? Want us to tackle a topic in a future episode? Send in your questions, hot takes, and episode ideas. We always want to hear what you’re watching, playing, and debating. firefly, firefly animated series, nathan fillion, lord of the rings, the hunt for gollum, kate winslet, amazon prime video, prime video 4k, one piece season 2, one piece live action, world of warcraft midnight, wow midnight, geek freaks podcast, sci-fi podcast, fantasy podcast, streaming news, tv reviews, gaming podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40516335

Indie Comics, Mostly Dead, Small Bites, and the Chaos of Creating Great Stories with Allen Dunford 03/13/2026

Indie Comics, Mostly Dead, Small Bites, and the Chaos of Creating Great Stories with Allen Dunford Allen Dunford returns to Geek Freaks for a fun, behind-the-scenes conversation about making indie comics that actually connect with readers. We talk about his upcoming books like Mostly Dead, Small Bites, and Cokehead, how he builds characters with heart and personality, and why trusting artists is one of the most important parts of the comic-making process. If you love horror comics, indie creators, and honest talk about storytelling, this episode has a lot to dig into. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 Introduction and Allen Dunford returns to Geek Freaks 01:16 What Allen is working on now and starting a small indie publishing house 02:13 Building new books from the ground up 03:26 Creating memorable characters with Kit Wallace 05:03 The energy and fun behind Cokehead 06:58 Small Bites, friendship, and emotional character writing 08:31 Skipping the usual werewolf origin story to get into the real story faster 10:23 How Mostly Dead became a passion project 11:00 Breaking down Nate’s story and the emotional core of Mostly Dead 12:17 Influences from horror, YA storytelling, and nostalgia 15:17 Allen’s key collaborators and what they bring to each comic 16:23 Why giving artists room to create makes the work stronger 17:47 How Allen’s collaboration style has changed over time 19:18 Trusting artists and why visual storytelling matters so much in comics 20:49 Writing for different artists and leaning into their strengths 21:20 What Allen loves most about indie comics 22:28 What he hopes readers take away from these stories 23:24 Standing out in the indie comics world without losing your voice 26:17 Upcoming books and what readers should keep an eye on next 29:00 Balancing comics, work, fatherhood, and life outside the page 29:59 Final thoughts and where to follow Allen’s work Key Takeaways: Allen Dunford is building comics that mix fun, horror, emotion, and strong character work Mostly Dead is one of his most personal and creatively exciting books Small Bites takes familiar monster ideas and pushes them into more emotional territory Great comic collaboration comes from trust, flexibility, and knowing each artist’s strengths Allen focuses on making books people genuinely enjoy instead of chasing trends Indie comics thrive when creators bring personality and honesty to the page Memorable Quotes: “I don’t want to plan the fun out of it.” “It’s like a 28-page panic attack, and it’s awesome.” “I just want people to pick stuff up and have a good time.” “Trust in your people, because I’m nothing without them.” “The art is the reason you stop at the comic stand, but to come back for issue two is going to be the writing.” Why This Episode Is Worth Your Time: If you are into indie comics, horror books, or hearing how creators actually put stories together, this is a really strong episode. Allen is honest, funny, and clearly passionate about making books that feel different. It also gives listeners a real look at the creative side of comics without losing the fun. Call to Action: Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Geek Freaks, leave us a review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. That helps us keep bringing on awesome creators and growing the show. Links and Resources: GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source for all news discussed during our podcast. Follow Us: Facebook: Threads: Patreon: Twitter: Instagram: Listener Questions: What comic creators do you want us to interview next? What indie books should we be reading? Send us your questions and we may feature them in a future episode. Apple Podcast Tags: Allen Dunford, indie comics, comic book interview, Geek Freaks, Mostly Dead, Small Bites, horror comics, comic creators, indie publishing, comic writing, comic books, Kickstarter comics, comic book podcast, horror storytelling, indie creators /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40371890

The Boys S5, Lanterns Trailer, & The Paramount/WB Merger 03/09/2026

The Boys S5, Lanterns Trailer, & The Paramount/WB Merger Frank and Thomas are back after a week-long hiatus to tackle a geek culture landscape that has completely shifted! We’re breaking down the industry-shaking news of the Paramount and Warner Brothers merger—discussing why this $110 billion deal might be a disaster for writers and original storytelling. Plus, we dive deep into the first trailers for The Boys Season 5 and the DCU’s Lanterns. From Butcher’s "Venom-like" powers to the True Detective vibes of Hal Jordan and John Stewart, we leave no stone unturned. We also address the viral God of War "AI" image controversy and drop a "Question of the Week" take that might get us roasted: Is Dune actually overhyped? Timestamps and Topics 00:00 – Welcome Back: Convention prep for WonderCon and our recent interview with Lenore Zann (the voice of Rogue!). 02:37 – The Hot Seat: Which "masterpiece" is actually trash? Why Dune didn't connect and why Scream feels like "Fast and Furious with Ghost Masks." 05:50 – The Boys Final Season: Analyzing Butcher’s new powers, Homelander in the White House, and A-Train’s incredible 180-degree character arc. 11:51 – Lanterns First Look: The "True Detective" aesthetic, Kyle Chandler’s "Old Dog" Hal Jordan, and the mystery of the "Only Human" Green Lanterns. 15:40 – Suit Check: Why the physical, weathered suits in Lanterns are a win for the DCU. 22:53 – God of War Drama: Was the leaked Kratos image AI? Breaking down the "cosplay" look and Ryan Hurst’s cryptic warning. 30:12 – Game of Thrones Movie: An Aegon’s Conquest film is coming from the writer of Andor and House of Cards. 40:31 – The $110B Mega-Merger: Why the Paramount/WB merger is "Paramount doing Paramount things" and the danger of studios only making "safe bets." 51:00 – Project Helix & IP Waste: Xbox’s next move and why Paramount is sitting on a goldmine of GI Joe, Star Trek, and TMNT content. 01:12:57 – Frank's Recommendation: Pokémon Fire Red/Leaf Green on the Switch for that ultimate nostalgia hit. Key Takeaways The Death of the Mid-Tier Movie: The Paramount/WB merger threatens the future of original stories as studios pivot exclusively to established IP. A-Train’s Redemption: The Boys has successfully transitioned A-Train from a Season 1 villain to a core member of the resistance. Grounded DCU: By embracing a procedural, "True Detective" vibe for Lanterns, James Gunn is focusing on character dynamics over pure spectacle. Marketing Mishaps: The God of War image controversy highlights a growing fan distrust of early production reveals and "AI-looking" marketing. Memorable Quotes "It’s just Fast and Furious with Ghost Mask... it feels so repetitive and I’m just so done with it." — Frank on the Scream franchise. "Earth blowing up is not a 0% chance. I could see Homelander winning and just deciding to nuke the entire planet." — Frank on The Boys finale. "You kind of want that old dog on the Justice League. That's our Hal Jordan." — Frank on Kyle Chandler's casting. Call to Action If you enjoyed our deep dive into the future of Hollywood, subscribe and leave a 5-star review! It helps the algorithm find us and keeps the geek conversation growing. Share your hottest "trash masterpiece" takes with us on social media using #GeekFreaks. Resources & Follow Us Stay updated with every convention and interview: Website: Geek Freaks Podcast Social Media: @GeekFreaksPod Interviews: Check out our recent chats with Lenore Zann (Rogue) and Matty Myers! Search Keywords Paramount WB Merger, Project Helix, The Boys Season 5, Lanterns Trailer, DCU, God of War AI, Kratos, Green Lantern, Homelander, Dune Hot Take, Xbox Handheld, Game of Thrones Movie, Aegon's Conquest, Pop Culture News, Geek Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40363015

From Hollywood PR to Podcasting: Inside Fandoms, Crisis Management, & Maddy Mania 03/06/2026

From Hollywood PR to Podcasting: Inside Fandoms, Crisis Management, & Maddy Mania Have you ever wondered what actually goes on behind the velvet ropes of Hollywood and the massive arenas of the sports world? In this episode, Frank sits down with Maddy Myer, a seasoned publicist and the host of the brand new podcast, Maddy Mania. Maddy pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of public relations, revealing that it takes far more than just walking red carpets to manage a celebrity's image. From navigating sudden PR crises to adapting to the influencer era, Maddy shares her insider knowledge and career journey. Plus, we dive into her new podcasting venture, which perfectly blends deep fan "spirals" with expert industry analysis, covering everything from K-Pop and wrestling to classic TV shows. Timestamps & Topics 00:00:00 – Introduction: Welcoming Maddy Myer and the launch of Maddy Mania. 00:00:28 – What does a Hollywood publicist actually do? (Hint: It’s not just red carpets). 00:01:35 – Career Pivot: How Maddy transitioned from nursing to Public Relations. 00:02:57 – Behind the Scenes: Handling crises, time management, and staying adaptable. 00:03:50 – The PR Shift: How social media and influencer collabs are taking over traditional press. 00:04:55 – Sports vs. Entertainment: Exploring the massive overlap in fandom culture. 00:07:18 – Industry Advice: How to land a job in PR (internships and writing are key!). 00:08:40 – Hollywood’s take on PR: Why Maddy loves Apple TV’s The Studio. 00:10:41 – The birth of Maddy Mania: Balancing professional goals with pure fan obsession. 00:14:52 – The power of Comic-Con and the importance of exclusivity in modern press runs. 00:20:47 – Dream Guests: Why Ariana Grande and CM Punk are at the top of Maddy's list. 00:21:54 – Rapid Fire Questions: Blackpink dominance, Gossip Girl comfort watches, and viral wrestling theme songs. Key Takeaways PR is Crisis Management: A publicist's true value lies in their adaptability. What seems like a minor hiccup can easily turn into a major crisis, requiring constant schedule juggling and rapid problem-solving. Social Media is the New Press: Traditional media (like radio and print) is taking a backseat to content creation, influencer collaborations, and digital brand building. Fandoms are Universal: Whether you are pitching a sports client or an entertainment star, the passion of the fanbase is the driving force behind a successful campaign. Start Early and Write Often: For those aspiring to enter the PR field, getting diverse internship experience and heavily refining your writing skills are the most critical steps to success. Embrace Your Inner Fan: Maddy Mania proves that you can be a respected industry professional while still unabashedly "spiraling" over your favorite childhood shows, K-pop groups, or wrestlers. Memorable Quotes "You are basically their image makers. You are who's in charge of making sure they look good on camera and off camera... and making sure that their brand and their image stays in a positive light." > "I feel like something that you think could be small could become like a major crisis... being a publicist, you have to be adaptable and flexible, for sure." "Exclusivity is everything in the modern publicist realm. And so Comic-Con is a really good, high-profile event to kind of announce those kinds of things." Call to Action Did you enjoy this deep dive into the PR world and fandom culture? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode! If you learned something new today, please leave us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform. Don't forget to screenshot this episode, share it on your social media, and tag us using #GeekFreaksxMaddyMania so we can shout you out! Links and Resources For all the latest geek culture news discussed during our podcast, head over to GeekFreaksPodcast.com (your ultimate source for all things geek!). Make sure to check out the premiere of Maddy Mania launching on March 5th! WEB: IG: TT: YT: APPLE: SPOTIFY: IHEART: AMAZON: LINKTREE: Follow Us Stay connected with us for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and more: Geek Freaks: @GeekFreaksPodcast (Instagram, X, TikTok) Maddy Myer: @MaddyManiaPod (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok) Listener Questions We want to hear from YOU! What fandom are you currently spiraling over? Do you have questions about the entertainment industry or a specific topic you want us to cover next? Send in your questions via our social media DMs, and we might feature your topic on an upcoming episode! Tags: Public Relations, Hollywood PR, Maddy Mania, Geek Freaks Podcast, Entertainment Industry, Sports Fandom, K-Pop, Blackpink, Wrestling PR, Podcasting, Comic-Con, Crisis Management, Media Training, Pop Culture /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40344120

X-Men '97 & Marvel Rivals: Rogue’s Return with Voice Icon Lenore Zann 02/28/2026

X-Men '97 & Marvel Rivals: Rogue’s Return with Voice Icon Lenore Zann In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with Lenore Zann, the iconic voice of Rogue, for a conversation that goes far beyond animation. Lenore opens up about what still makes Rogue such a layered and powerful character, how she approached returning for X-Men ’97, and why bringing Rogue into Marvel Rivals still feels true to the version fans have loved for decades. The conversation also explores Lenore’s memoir A Rogue’s Tale, her work in Canadian politics, the fight against environmental racism, and the deeper emotional themes inside Rogue’s story that continue to connect with fans. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 Welcome and introducing Lenore Zann 00:55 How politics added even more sass to Rogue 01:30 What makes Rogue such a compelling and layered character 03:56 Lenore’s acting philosophy and why voice acting starts with acting 06:32 Becoming the voice fans still hear when they read Rogue 07:09 Rogue’s trauma, Gambit, Magneto, and the emotional weight of X-Men ’97 10:22 Bringing Rogue into Marvel Rivals and adding new personality to the role 12:35 Why Rogue could be one of the best leaders in the X-Men 14:33 Rogue as a role model for women, LGBTQ fans, and anyone feeling othered 18:41 Lenore’s political work and helping bring attention to environmental racism 20:49 A Rogue’s Tale, audiobooks, mythology, and the power of storytelling 24:41 Lightning round begins with dream roles and future acting goals 26:52 The director’s note Lenore will never forget 32:39 The role she wishes more fans would ask about 34:06 New music, film development, and an animated project based on her father’s books 35:51 Comic cons, cosplay, and wrapping up with Lenore Key Takeaways: Lenore sees Rogue as powerful because she balances strength, vulnerability, loyalty, and pain. Her approach to voice work is rooted in full performance, not just reading lines. Rogue’s decisions in X-Men ’97 make more sense when viewed through trauma and grief. Marvel Rivals gave Lenore room to bring even more of her own personality into Rogue. Lenore believes Rogue’s greatest strength as a leader is compassion and self-sacrifice. The conversation tied Rogue’s story to real-world themes like identity, acceptance, grief, and justice. Lenore’s activism and political work show how her values carry beyond the booth and onto a larger stage. A Rogue’s Tale adds even more depth to her journey as an artist, survivor, and storyteller. Memorable Quotes: “Voice acting is acting.” “I’ve been living in your head rent free for 30 years.” “Some things are deeper than skin.” “There ain’t no cure for who you are.” “Worst case scenario, I can do whatever I need to do to make it work.” Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow X-Men fan. Tag us on social and let us know your favorite Lenore Zann role using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources: GeekFreaksPodcast.com Also mentioned in this episode: , , , and Follow Us: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions: Got a question for the show or a topic you want us to cover in a future episode? Send it our way on social media or through GeekFreaksPodcast.com. We always want to hear what you want us to talk about next. Lenore Zann, Rogue, X-Men ’97, Marvel Rivals, A Rogue’s Tale, X-Men, Marvel animation, voice acting, Geek Freaks, Lenore Zann interview, Rogue voice actor, Marvel podcast, comic book podcast, superhero interviews, X-Men podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40264755

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Finale Deep Dive & 2026 Trailer Reactions (Toy Story 5, Peaky Blinders, HOTD S3) 02/25/2026

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Finale Deep Dive & 2026 Trailer Reactions (Toy Story 5, Peaky Blinders, HOTD S3) Episode Summary Join Frank and Jonathan on this week's Geek Freaks podcast as we break down a massive wave of 2026 trailer releases. We tackle the Toy Story 5 plot and its commentary on the "tablet generation," the high-seas warfare coming in House of the Dragon Season 3, and the official return of Cillian Murphy in the Peaky Blinders movie, The Immortal Man. To top it off, we provide a full, spoiler-filled review of the A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 finale, discussing why Ser Duncan the Tall is the hero the Game of Thrones universe needs right now. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:47 – Toy Story 5 Trailer Breakdown: Woody, Jesse, and the battle against tech. 00:05:03 – House of the Dragon Season 3 News: The Battle of the Gullet and the "War Queen" Rhaenyra. 00:08:32 – Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man Movie: Tommy Shelby’s WWII return and Kingdom Come comparisons. 00:13:01 – A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Review: Season 1 finale spoilers and the future of "Dunk and Egg." Key Takeaways & Insights Toy Story 5 Plot Rumors: The film explores the conflict between traditional toys and modern electronics—a relatable theme for parents dealing with "iPad kids." House of the Dragon Season 3 Action: Expect a faster pace with at least three major battles, starting with the naval conflict at the Gullet. Tommy Shelby’s Evolution: The Immortal Man movie bridges the gap between the old-school Peaky Blinders and a reckless new generation in 1940s Birmingham. Dunk’s Integrity: The finale of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms highlights Ser Duncan’s refusal of the crown’s comfort at Summerhall, choosing the life of a Hedge Knight instead. Memorable Quotes "Woody’s got a bald spot on the back of his head... he’s relatable. You’re definitely aging, bro, I feel you." — Frank "A knight is supposed to be high integrity... he’s learning that even if that’s not what the world is right now, he can still stand up for what a knight should be." — Jonathan Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is your central hub for all the news discussed today. We source all our breaking news, trailer updates, and review notes directly from the site. Russel Crowe on TikTok: Call to Action If you loved this deep dive, please subscribe on your favorite app! Leave us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts to help us climb the charts. Share this episode using #GeekFreaks to join the conversation! Follow Us Twitter/X: @GeekFreaksPod Instagram: @GeekFreaksPodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions What did you think of the Toy Story 5 tech angle? Are you "Team Black" or "Team Green" heading into House of the Dragon Season 3? Send us your questions via GeekFreaksPodcast.com or our social handles! Apple Podcast Tags: Toy Story 5, House of the Dragon Season 3, Peaky Blinders Movie, The Immortal Man, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Game of Thrones, Cillian Murphy, Pixar 2026, HBO Max, Geek Freaks, Frank and Jonathan, TV Reviews, Movie News /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40228570

Spider-Noir, PlayStation Highlights, and the Weekly vs Binge Streaming Debate 02/17/2026

Spider-Noir, PlayStation Highlights, and the Weekly vs Binge Streaming Debate Squeaks, Frank, Jon and Thomas cover a packed episode that jumps from dream low-stakes spin-off ideas (God of War politics, Fallout slice-of-life, and cozy Shire chaos) into real-world hype around the Spider-Noir trailer and how Nicolas Cage changes the whole vibe in the best way. From there, the crew breaks down standout PlayStation State of Play reveals, including what they want from a God of War trilogy remake, why Game Freak’s new project has people paying attention again, and which upcoming titles actually look worth the time. Then the conversation shifts into a big streaming debate: weekly releases vs binge drops vs the hybrid “first 2–3 episodes, then weekly” model. They dig into what works for mystery box shows like WandaVision and Severance, what falls apart when the writing doesn’t match the release strategy, and why some series thrive when fans have time to theory-craft between episodes. The episode wraps with network updates and weekly recommendations, including a Cyclops comic shoutout and a heartfelt nod to Stevie’s retirement from Good Mythical Morning after 13 years. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Intro and crew check-in (Squeaks, Frank, John, plus a Thomas cameo) 00:00:35 Icebreaker: what massive franchise needs a low-stakes spin-off? 00:00:58 God of War spin-off pitch: Olympus politics, Spartan POV, and “collateral damage” storytelling 00:02:11 Frank’s pitch: a Stardew Valley-style Fallout town rebuilding above ground 00:02:43 Jon’s pitch: a cozy “life in the Shire” Lord of the Rings series 00:03:48 Thomas’s pitch: smaller-scale Jurassic Park stories from a visitor or staff POV 00:05:06 Listener ideas from social: Zootopia case-of-the-week, Han Solo pulp vibes, law-and-order sketch artists 00:05:48 Spider-Noir trailer reactions: tone, action, investigation, and why Cage works 00:07:26 Prime Video adaptation trust: Fallout, The Boys, Invincible, and what Spider-Noir might get right 00:08:17 Rings of Power tangent: why “faithful” is complicated when rights are limited 00:09:02 Is Spider-Noir the Spider-Verse version or a variant? The crew debates 00:10:16 What fans actually want: more detective noir or more superhero chaos? 00:12:20 PlayStation State of Play recap begins: overall reactions and standout reveals 00:13:24 God of War trilogy remake talk and why “remake” matters more than “remaster” 00:13:56 Game Freak frustration, Pokémon burnout, and why a new IP could reset expectations 00:14:47 Classic vibes: the pull of 2D action and Castlevania-style nostalgia 00:15:52 Kena: Bridge of Spirits sequel excitement and “30-minute gaming” for busy adults 00:17:02 Star Wars Galactic Racers and the return of pod-racing energy 00:17:24 Project Wilderness: rooster warriors, Korean fantasy roots, and “The Bird That Drinks Tears” curiosity 00:21:13 Ride-or-die studios: Rockstar, Blizzard talk, and Saber’s trust factor 00:21:31 John Wick game discussion: expectations, violence, and the question of gameplay style 00:23:40 Severance and Apple ownership: what expansion could look like without killing the mystery 00:26:59 The goats, the branches, and why answers can end the show 00:28:04 Spin-off pitch: military uses of severance tech and the darker implications 00:29:51 Helldivers movie with Jason Momoa: comedy vs serious tone, and how to make it work 00:33:02 Main topic: weekly episodes vs binging vs hybrid release models 00:36:22 Why weekly wins for theorizing, community talk, and “watercooler” moments 00:39:36 The hybrid model: dropping 2–3 episodes first, then weekly 00:41:09 Binge model strengths: completion, momentum, and not forgetting the show exists 00:48:05 Which genres fit which release style? Mystery box, character drama, sitcoms, and action 00:57:19 Network updates: upcoming shows, format shifts, and what’s next across the Geek Freaks Network 00:58:19 Recommendations: Cyclops comic spotlight and Stevie’s Good Mythical Morning retirement tribute Key Takeaways Big franchises can feel fresh again with smaller stories that focus on everyday life, side characters, and worldbuilding instead of saving the universe. Spider-Noir looks like it’s leaning into style and personality, and Nicolas Cage makes it feel like its own thing instead of “another Spider-Man.” Prime Video’s track record with adaptations is earning trust, even when the company itself is a mixed bag for fans. State of Play talk lands on a simple truth: remakes need to feel rebuilt, not just polished. Game Freak has goodwill to win back, and a new IP might be their best shot to prove they can still deliver quality. Release models matter because writing matters. A weekly show needs episodes that stand on their own, not just pieces of a long movie. Weekly releases fuel theorizing, discussion, and community engagement. Binge releases maximize momentum and completion. The “2–3 episode premiere, then weekly” approach can be the sweet spot when it’s planned from the start. Memorable Quotes “I want a Stardew Valley set in the Fallout universe.” “Nicolas Cage is not a Spider-Man… Spider-Man is being made into a Nicolas Cage character.” “It’s not a remaster. It’s a remake.” “Once we find out what’s up with the goats, the show’s over.” “That’s a watercooler moment because everybody was like, wait, what happened?” Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and share the episode with a friend using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com (Source of all news discussed during our podcast) Follow Us Follow Geek Freaks Podcast on: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast For Patreon extras: Geek Freaks Podcast on Patreon Listener Questions Got a topic you want us to hit next week, a hot take you want us to argue about, or a franchise you think needs a low-stakes spin-off? Send it in via DMs, or email . Cyclops, X-Men, Spider-Noir, Spider-Man Noir, Nicolas Cage, PlayStation State of Play, PS5, video game news, God of War remake, God of War trilogy, Game Freak, Pokémon, Kena Bridge of Spirits, Star Wars pod racing, Severance, Apple TV Plus, Helldivers movie, Jason Momoa, weekly episodes, binge watching, streaming release model, WandaVision, Andor, Stranger Things, Fallout TV series, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40141575

Super Bowl Chaos, Baldur’s Gate Goes TV, Seven Kingdoms Hype, Eragon’s Comeback, and Fallout Season 2 Grades 02/10/2026

Super Bowl Chaos, Baldur’s Gate Goes TV, Seven Kingdoms Hype, Eragon’s Comeback, and Fallout Season 2 Grades Thomas rolls in riding the Super Bowl champ high (full hat, jersey, and apparently socks and underwear too), and the crew kicks things off with a Valentine’s-themed Question of the Week: what’s the “flowers” equivalent for men? From there, it’s a full Super Bowl rundown: a defense-heavy game, a halftime show that hit hard for the culture heads in the room, and commercials that landed (and a few that didn’t). Then the episode pivots back into geek mode with reactions to a Baldur’s Gate TV series in development, more love for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms as it ramps toward its Trial of Seven moment, and optimism for Disney’s Eragon series thanks to the creative team involved. The back half is all Fallout Season 2, with the crew landing in the “good, not great” zone while still getting hyped for what Season 3 could pay off. You also get network updates, convention panel plans, and weekly recommendations to close it out. Timestamps and Topics 00:00 Welcome in, Thomas’ Super Bowl champ victory lap 01:30 Question of the Week: what’s the “flowers” equivalent for men? 05:00 Super Bowl reactions: defense wins championships, Seahawks nostalgia, “Dark Side” vibes 08:20 Halftime show talk: Bad Bunny, cultural references, and why it hit for the whole room 12:00 More halftime highlights: Green Day shoutout, Ricky Martin surprise, who should headline next? 15:45 Favorite Super Bowl ads + why the Mando spot felt weirdly caught in the middle 18:00 Trailer talk: what the Super Bowl did (and didn’t) deliver this year 22:05 Baldur’s Gate TV series discussion: big potential, big concerns (and the Larian question) 26:10 A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Episode 4 hype, pacing praise, and “short and punchy” working 35:20 Eragon series at Disney+: why it might finally work this time 42:10 Fallout Season 2 review: what worked, what dragged, and where Season 3 needs to go 55:40 Network updates: new host announcements, recent episodes, Survivor 50 build-up 57:40 Convention panel plans: comics, game dev, podcasting, Kickstarter marketing 58:50 Recommendations of the week (including The Smashing Machine) Key Takeaways Thomas’ Super Bowl joy is basically a case study in “I don’t believe it until it’s real,” and that made the win hit even harder. The crew’s “flowers for men” answers are wildly revealing: gift cards for movies and games, Legos as a seasonal tradition, and the underrated power of small thoughtful grabs. The halftime show conversation lands on something bigger than music: representation, cultural shoutouts, and why certain moments connect differently when your household speaks the language. The Mandalorian & Grogu Super Bowl spot discussion nails the core frustration: it didn’t fully serve as a trailer or as a commercial, so it split the difference and lost impact. Baldur’s Gate as a TV playground sounds like a great idea, but the lack of Larian involvement raises real “are they just using the name?” concerns. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms keeps winning people over because it feels like it belongs in Westeros without trying to copy the tone of the flagship shows. Eragon could finally pop with Disney backing it, especially if the show uses budget smartly and nails the dragon work. Fallout Season 2 feels more like the game experience (factions, doors opening, long quests) which is cool for gamers but can make the season feel more like setup than payoff. Memorable Quotes “Wear the hat, the jersey, the socks, the underwear. All the above.” “Defense wins championships.” “Theaters are sacred to me.” “I don’t like flowers because you’re watching them die.” “This isn’t your Game of Thrones. Don’t buy this for a Game of Thrones.” “It was good. I don’t think it was great.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this one, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next episode. Drop a quick review on your podcast app, it genuinely helps new listeners find the show. And if you share the episode on social media, tag us and use #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed on the show. Follow Us Geek Freaks Podcast on Twitter: @GeekFreaksPod Geek Freaks Podcast on Instagram: @GeekFreaksPodcast Geek Freaks Podcast on Threads: @GeekFreaksPodcast Geek Freaks Podcast on Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Support the network on Patreon: GeekFreaksPodcast Listener Questions Send us your questions and topic ideas for a future episode, especially your pick for next year’s halftime headliner and what you want to see in Fallout Season 3. Texas Chainsaw Massacre, horror TV series, A24, Fallout Season 2, Prime Video, Baldur’s Gate, Dungeons and Dragons, Craig Mazin, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Dunk and Egg, Trial of Seven, George R. R. Martin, Eragon, Disney Plus, Super Bowl commercials, halftime show, Bad Bunny, The Mandalorian and Grogu, pop culture podcast, geek news, TV reviews, movie news, gaming adaptations /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/40061580

Wonder Man Review With Muscles of the Multiverse: Trevor Slattery’s Redemption, Doorman’s Darkforce Twist, and MCU Mutant Setup 02/03/2026

Wonder Man Review With Muscles of the Multiverse: Trevor Slattery’s Redemption, Doorman’s Darkforce Twist, and MCU Mutant Setup Frank is joined by Joe, aka “Muscles of the Multiverse,” to talk Marvel storytelling from the comics page to the MCU screen, then go all-in on Disney+’s Wonder Man after its eight-episode drop. Joe breaks down what he does on YouTube, why he started the Reading the Multiverse podcast, and how he approaches Marvel adaptation trends without expecting (or wanting) a 1-to-1 translation. From there, the episode shifts into a full Wonder Man discussion: why the show works as a character-first story, how it balances comedy with real stakes, and why the Simon Williams and Trevor Slattery dynamic ended up being the surprise engine of the season. The conversation also gets into Simon’s anxiety and identity pressure, the Department of Damage Control angle, the “Doorman” detour episode, and what all of this might be setting up for mutants and the next big MCU era. Timestamps and Topics (major beats) 00:00 Intro and guest welcome: Joe “Muscles of the Multiverse” 00:30 Joe’s content approach: MCU-to-comics explainers + Reading the Multiverse podcast 02:15 Quick MCU news: Ian McKellen “destroyed New Jersey” comment and what it could imply 05:10 Wonder Man first reactions: why it’s landing better than expected 06:40 Character-driven Marvel: Simon’s relatability, anxiety, and hiding “who you are” in Hollywood 09:00 Acting as the hook: standout performances, “meta” acting scenes, and why Trevor works now 18:10 Wonder Man powers explained: ionic energy basics and how the MCU might simplify the lore 20:10 Bigger MCU threads: Vision/Wanda possibilities, mutant framing, and Damage Control as a warning sign 30:45 Episode balance talk: comedy vs drama, and why the Doorman episode hits so hard 41:00 What’s next for Simon: hero-by-proxy theory, team potential, and final scores 44:40 Disney+ marketing debate: why some shows feel under-pushed and what Marvel can fix 50:35 Recommendations: The Ultimates (Deniz Camp) and revisiting Schitt’s Creek 53:10 Joe’s upcoming work: Doctor Doom deep cuts, Fantastic Four read-through, and the editing grind Key Takeaways Wonder Man works because it treats Simon Williams like a person first, superhero second. The show’s comedy lands because the stakes stay real in the background, especially with Damage Control looming. Trevor Slattery is fully recontextualized here: still funny, but also weirdly wise and essential to Simon’s growth. The Doorman episode is a standout swing that doubles as a Hollywood critique and a superhero fatigue commentary. Joe’s breakdown of Simon’s ionic-energy comic history highlights why Marvel rarely does strict comic-to-screen adaptation. Damage Control and the “quota” vibe point toward a wider MCU theme: institutional fear of powered people. Mutant groundwork is starting to feel less like a sudden switch and more like a slow social shift in-world. Both hosts land at a 9/10, with the only “missing point” being more about feel than a specific flaw. Memorable Quotes “There’s usually never a 1 to 1 adaptation.” “I didn’t know that I needed more Trevor Slattery in my life. But now I do.” “Mephisto is not going to be in everything.” “It felt like it was made to be for an episodic TV show.” “You can’t help but root for Simon.” Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next review and interview. Ratings and reviews help more than people realize, so if you’ve got a minute, drop one. And share this episode on social with #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources Joe's Youtube Channel: Joe's Podcast: GeekFreaksPodcast.com GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source of all news discussed during our podcast. Follow Us Twitter: @geekfreakspod Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions Got a topic you want us to cover, a Marvel question, or a show you want reviewed next? Send it in by DM on socials, or email us at and we’ll pull from listener submissions in an upcoming episode. Apple Podcast Tags Marvel, MCU, Wonder Man, Simon Williams, Trevor Slattery, Ben Kingsley, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Disney Plus, Marvel TV, Department of Damage Control, Doorman, Darkforce Dimension, X-Men, Mutants, Avengers Doomsday, Magneto, Ian McKellen, Vision Quest, Scarlet Witch, Comic Book Movies, Comic Book TV, Marvel Comics, Fantastic Four, Doctor Doom, Superhero Reviews, Geek Culture Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/39977010

Who is Wonder Man? | Maul, Masters of the Universe, God of War, Fable, and More! 01/27/2026

Who is Wonder Man? | Maul, Masters of the Universe, God of War, Fable, and More! Welcome to another episode of the Geek Freaks Podcast! In this session, hosts Frank and Jonathan dive deep into the psychology of fictional resistance, analyze the gritty evolution of a fan-favorite Sith, and discuss why the upcoming He-Man movie is embracing its vibrant roots. Episode Summary Are we living in an Empire? Frank and Jonathan kick off the show by questioning our fascination with fictional rebellions. From the underground movements in The Handmaid’s Tale and Star Trek to the reality-shattering resistance of The Matrix, we break down which groups actually stand a chance. We also provide a full reaction to the Maul: Shadow Lord trailer, exploring Dave Filoni’s darker shift in Star Wars animation. Finally, we look at the meta-fantasy world of the new Masters of the Universe film and share our latest HBO watchlist recommendations including Hacks and The Pit. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:00 – Intro, Question of the Week: Rebels in fiction we cheer for . 00:04:23 – Quick real-life check-in and keeping it together through a stressful news cycle . 00:05:08 – Star Wars: Maul: Shadow Lord trailer reaction and what the POV shift could mean . 00:11:13 – Masters of the Universe trailer talk, Jared Leto as Skeletor, tone, and first impressions . 00:16:29 – God of War series update: Cast talk, what fans should expect, and where the show could land. 00:22:05 – Fable showcase reaction: Humor, vibe, and why this reboot could work. 00:26:48 – Marvel’s Wonder Man spotlight: Who he is, why he matters, and what the show might be going for. 00:39:58 – Release-week plan for Wonder Man and quick network updates. 00:42:48 – Weekly recommendations: Starfleet Academy, Hacks, and The Pit. 00:45:06 – Wrap-up. Key Takeaways Effective Rebellion: Jonathan argues that "The Dawn" from The Handmaid’s Tale is a superior rebel group due to their infiltration tactics, whereas the Maquis were too easily dismantled. The Maul Evolution: The upcoming Shadow Lord series aims for a darker, "Rated R" feel, focusing on Maul’s pursuit of freedom through the criminal underworld rather than the Jedi/Sith binary. Critique of the Jedi: The hosts discuss how the Jedi Order often pursued "control" under the guise of "balance," making Maul’s perspective more relatable to some viewers. Embracing the Vibrant: Unlike many "dark and gritty" reboots, the new Masters of the Universe is leaning into the colorful, fun, and meta aspects of the original 80s property. Memorable Quotes "When did we vote for the Empire? Why did we end up this way?" – Frank "The Dawn... they are so well embedded. They're very sneaky." – Jonathan "The Jedi Order is not perfect either... the balance they were pursuing was not balance. It was control." – Jonathan "Justice comes at the tip of a lightsaber." – Frank Call to Action If you enjoyed this deep dive, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode on social media and tell us who your favorite fictional rebel is using the hashtag #GeekFreaks. Links and Resources Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest news, episode archives, and full articles on the topics discussed today. Geek Freaks Podcast is your primary source for all the geek culture news mentioned in our episodes. Follow Us Stay updated with the latest geek culture news and memes: Instagram: @GeekFreaksPodcast X (Twitter): @GeekFreaksPod TikTok: @GeekFreaksPodcast Listener Questions We want to hear from you! Which upcoming movie trailer should we react to next? Send your questions or topic suggestions to our social media handles or via our website, and we might feature your question in our next "Quick Fix" episode! Apple Podcast Tags: Star Wars, Darth Maul, Maul Shadow Lord, He-Man, Masters of the Universe, The Matrix, Rebels, Pop Culture, Geek News, Animation, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Dave Filoni, Andor, Star Trek Maquis, HBO Hacks, The Pit HBO, Geek Freaks Podcast /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/39902520

Decoding Avengers, Star Wars’ New Era, and the Return to Westeros 01/20/2026

Decoding Avengers, Star Wars’ New Era, and the Return to Westeros Episode Summary In this blockbuster episode of Geek Freaks, Squeaks, Frank, and Thomas dive into the massive shakeup at Lucasfilm. We discuss the breaking news of Kathleen Kennedy stepping down and what the new leadership duo of Dave Filoni and Lin-Wen Brennan means for the future of Star Wars. We also roll out our "We’re So Back vs. Stuck" segment, analyzing why Dune is the current heavyweight champion of cinema while franchises like Star Trek and Jurassic World are struggling. Plus, we react to Sophie Turner being cast as Lara Croft, give our first impressions of the new tone in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and break down a mind-bending MCU time code theory. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:00 – Intro: The "We’re So Back" vs. "Stuck" Era 00:01:08 – Dune: The undisputed heavyweight of event cinema 00:02:49 – Jurassic World: Is the franchise stuck in a loop? 00:03:42 – Tomb Raider: Sophie Turner cast as the new Lara Croft 00:04:36 – Star Trek: Why the final frontier feels stuck in neutral 00:06:24 – Alien and Predator: The massive resurgence of sci-fi horror 00:07:07 – Star Wars Breaking News: Kathleen Kennedy steps down; Dave Filoni and Lin-Wen Brennan take the lead 00:22:18 – A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: Initial reactions to the humor and tone of the new Westeros 00:42:43 – MCU Theory: Do the new teaser time codes link back to Avengers: Endgame? 00:58:10 – Network Updates: A final farewell to our sister show, Challenge Accepted 01:02:58 – Comic Book Quick Hits: Absolute Batman and Absolute Wonder Woman Key Takeaways New Star Wars Leadership: The shift to Dave Filoni (Creative) and Brennan (Business) mirrors the James Gunn/Peter Safran model at DC, signaling a fan-focused future for the franchise. Westeros Gets a New Voice: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (The Hedge Knight) moves away from the heavy political drama of House of the Dragon to introduce a refreshing, almost comedic tone. MCU Hidden Clues: Fans have identified time codes in recent Marvel teasers that appear to sync perfectly with the Ancient One’s multiverse explanation in Endgame, suggesting a massive "reboot" or "multiverse" event is imminent. The Dune Standard: The crew agrees that Dune has replaced Avatar as the definitive "must-see" theatrical experience of the decade. Quotes "We have two Star Wars fans that are making Star Wars now. That feels good to me." — Speaker 3 "I think [Dune] is the undisputed heavyweight right now. The energy's right." — Speaker 1 "It's good to be in Westeros again... just the beautiful panning shots and the dirtiness of the fairground." — Speaker 3 Call to Action Love the show? Make sure to subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! It helps more geeks find us. Share this episode on social media using the hashtag #GeekFreaks. Links and Resources Head over to GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest news and episode archives. GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the primary source for all news and topics discussed on this episode. Follow Us Stay up to date with the crew: Twitter/X: @GeekFreaksPod Instagram: @GeekFreaksPodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions We want to hear from you! Which franchise do you think is "so back," and which one is "stuck"? Send your questions or future episode topics to our social media handles or via our website! Apple Podcast Tags: Star Wars, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, Lin-Wen Brennan, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Game of Thrones, MCU theories, Avengers Endgame, Sophie Turner, Lara Croft, Tomb Raider, Dune, Absolute Batman, Geek Freaks Podcast, Movie News, Marvel Rumors /episode/index/show/thetopfivepodcast/id/39795130