Grumpy Young Men (Comedy)

The time has come. After almost ten years of podcasting, we close the book on Grumpy Young Men.

Also, why we hate Random Rants. (Recorded January 21st, 2024.)

Direct download: Episode_400_-_The_Last_Episode_of_Grumpy_Young_Men.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about the book series that has meant more to us than any other, Derek Landy’s Skulduggery Pleasant. We go through our entire history including first reading these books as pre-teens, obsessively importing the sequels from the UK, and aging out of the first series right when it all came to a close.

Also, why we hate having to drip faucets. (Recorded January 14th, 2024.)

Direct download: Ep._399_Skulduggery_Pleasant.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week, it’s the movie we’ve been meaning to get around to ever since the very beginning of this podcast, Casablanca. We cover our personal histories with this film, the astonishing context it was released in (a war!), and compare Rick’s bar to another bar from a long time ago…

Also, why we hate misleading short videos. (Recorded January 7th, 2024.)

Direct download: Ep._398_Casablanca.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re continuing our annual tradition of shouting out some of our favorite art of the year! These are things that we are both excited to talk about, but couldn’t really commit to doing a full episode on. We discuss videos, movies, books, TV shows, and cool guy stuff like Magic cards and Warhammer models.

Also, why we hate fake lines. (Recorded December 31st, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._397_Best_Art_of_2023.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about maybe the most talked-about film of all time, Citizen Kane. It’s hard to find things that haven’t already been said about this movie, but boy do we try! What would a modern retelling of this movie be like, and why would it be a miniseries instead? What decade of film should we throw in the trash? And has anyone else noticed Charles Foster Kane is kinda similar to a certain political figure we have today?

Also, why we hate car windows. (Recorded December 23rd, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._396_Citizen_Kane.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re getting into the festive spirit and talking about one of the most beloved Christmas movies, It’s a Wonderful Life. We cover everything including the banking loans, the crappy colorized version, what that fake snow really was, and also we make several misguided allusions to Back to the Future Part II.

Also, why we hate spoiled food. (Recorded December 17th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._395_Its_a_Wonderful_Life.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:39pm CDT

This week we’re talking about Godzilla Minus One, the surprise hit from Toho Studios in Japan. We discuss the sincere and sweet human characters, the shockingly small budget, and the agenda behind Godzilla’s violence. Do you pronounce terror and tearer the same way?

Also, why we hate Samuel’s house being haunted. (Recorded December 10th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._394_Godzilla_Minus_One.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

If you thought we were never gonna talk about 1997’s Donnie Brasco, then you can “fuhggedaboutit,” cause we’re taking about it today! We’re both pretty lukewarm on this one but still find things to discuss in our two lead performances, the unique and visual storytelling tricks, and Samuel admits that some mobster movies are in fact like Mean Girls.

 

Also, why we hate a throwaway reference Samuel made two months ago. (Recorded December 3rd, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._393_Donnie_Brasco.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about This Is Going to Hurt, a wonderful and gruesome book about Adam Kay’s experience in medicine. We discuss how well written this book is and how well integrated its themes are, and how we relate to it with several of our own personal experiences in the workforce. 

Also, why we hate even more awkward interactions with cashiers. (Recorded November 26th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._392_This_Is_Going_to_Hurt.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re discussing the terrific and difficult new film Killers of the Flower Moon. How does Scorsese’s script compare to the book? Is Lily Gladstone’s performance the best in the movie? (Yes.) How is Leonardo DiCaprio able to consistently date women under 26? And why does Robert De Niro keep making grandpa movies? All that and more!

Also, why we hate when you can tell someone is lying during small talk. (Recorded November 19th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._391_Killers_of_the_Flower_Moon.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re tackling Mean Girls, the generation-defining cult classic from the early 2000s. It’s pretty clear from the first two minutes that Samuel was not gonna be a fan, but we still get some good discussion about social anxiety, the two terrific lead performances, and lots of arguing over what it’s like to be a teenager.

Also, why we hate bad skylight layouts. (Recorded November 12th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._390_Mean_Girls.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about yesteryear’s satirical thriller The Menu. We discuss how mixed and half-baked some of the themes are, our favorite worm boy Nick Holt, and propose several questions we’re not prepared to answer, such as: how many psychopaths are there (in this movie)? How many oceans are there (in the world)?

Also, why we hate the shelving of Coyote vs. Acme. (Recorded November 10th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._389_The_Menu.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re closing the book on our mummy series by going through and discussing all the interconnected mummy spinoffs and sequels that were just too bad for us to devote an entire episode to. The 40s sequels with Lon Chaney Jr.? Covered. The Mummy Returns from 2001, and the Scorpion King movies? We watched them. What about all the silent film era movies that vaguely mention a mummy? Well we couldn’t watch them because most of them are lost, but we still cover them!

Also, why we hate recent Dead Reckoning Part Two news. (Recorded November 5th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._388_The_Mummy_Ancillary.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 5:50pm CDT

This week we’re talking about Tom Cruise’s attempt at a mummy film, 2017’s The Mummy, a film that we agree is probably the worst we’ve ever seen. We go deep into theorizing how this became such a colossal mess, rag on how offensive certain parts of this movie are, and go on several much-needed tangents simply to avoid our main topic.

Also, why we hate “thanks for coming to the movies” messages. (Recorded October 22nd, 2023.)

(Apologies to Sofia Boutella, who we accidentally call “Sofia Boutel” a couple times.)

Direct download: Ep._387_The_Mummy_2017.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we continue our trek into mummy movies with 1959’s The Mummy. Is this movie just a mishmash of plots from the forgotten mummy sequels of the 40s? Yes! Does that mean it’s any good? No! Despite being bored to tears by this film, we manage to answer some of the real questions, like “are the mummies naked under there?” and “how much tongue is too much tongue to cut off?”

Also, why we hate being out of shape. (Recorded October 8th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._385_The_Mummy_1959.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we begin out monthlong mini-series/investigation into films simple titled The Mummy, starting with the original from 1932. We discuss how comparable this is to other monster movies of the time period, debate the cool factor of the Mummy’s magic powers, and get really existential over what we should be doing with the dead.

Also, why we hate corporate acquisitions. (Recorded October 1st, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._384_The_Mummy.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re unpacking Widows, Steve McQueen’s excellent heist movie from 2018. We discuss Viola Davis’ magnetic performance, Colin Farrell’s questionable accent, Elizabeth Debicki’s towering height, and for some reason go on an extended tangent about gambling in mobile games. 

Also, why we hate plantar warts. (Recorded September 24th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._383_Widows.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:46pm CDT

This week we’re discussing Inglorious Basterds, Tarantino’s bloody and bashful WWII fantasy film. We go over the disjointed chapter structure, the two brilliant scenes of tension (both of which feature underground rooms), and Henry says a lot of mean things about Mr. Tarantino (sorry not sorry).

Also, why we hate inconsistent subtitles and title cards. (Recorded September 17th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._382_Inglourious_Basterds.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Singin’ in the Rain, widely regarded as the greatest musical of all time. This was a first-time watch for both of us so we discuss why we’ve been reticent about musicals in the past, which dance sequences were our favorites, and recap how troubled this production truly was behind the scenes.

Also, why we hate Goldfish cartons shrinking. (Recorded September 10th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._381_Singin_in_the_Rain.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:25am CDT

We’re back after a couple weeks away to recount our recent travel experiences. We go through the many do’s and don’t’s of travel, debate how much of a “tourist-y” vacation one should have, and mostly we just go on tangents about fantasy books and Covid and using a Segway to do your grocery shopping.

Also, why we hate missing a flight. (Recorded September 9th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._380_Travel.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:14am CDT

This week we’re talking about Signs of the Sojourner, an excellent roguelike game about having conversations with people… with cards? We discuss the beauty and simplicity that’s core to the gameplay, the brilliant and detailed world building, and marvel over how different our two playthroughs of the game were.

Also, why we hate judgmental non-jaywalking. (Recorded August 16th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._379_Signs_of_the_Sojourner.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Emily the Criminal, the surprise indie hit from last year with tension, action, and Aubrey Plaza breaking bad. We discuss the movie’s way of commenting on the current economic climate, how much of that commentary ultimately worked for us, and we try to remember the difference between prisons and jails.

Also, why we hate scheduling. (Recorded August 6th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._378_Emily_the_Criminal.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:22pm CDT

We’re back and we’re talking this week about White Noise, a movie that Henry thought would be a good companion piece to Barbie. Is it though? We wind our way through this puzzling plot, and go down several tangents such as crowds doing “the wave,” orbital lasers, cat boogers, and more, but eventually we end up back in the supermarket.

Also, Henry might be the a-hole in the movie theater. (Recorded July 30th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._377_White_Noise.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today were covering Barbenheimer, the story of a theoretical stereotypical physicist doll who must fix a rip between the real world and Barbieland while trying to create an atomic bomb. Also Albert Einstein is there and all of Ken's clothes fit him!

Also why we hate strike-related delays and limitations on sped-up audio playback. (Recorded July 23rd, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._376_Barbenheimer.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 5:24pm CDT

After five long weeks of buildup, the end is finally here (or, at least, the first part of the end, although also Tom Cruise is willing to do more of these). Whatever the case, we’re talking about Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One today. We discuss the heightened camp throughout, the capabilities of the Entity, the pointlessness of Rome, and go on tangents about city names and the lack of food in this universe.

Also, why we hate the amount of stuff constantly happening. (Recorded July 13th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._375_Mission_Impossible_Dead_Reckoning_Part_One.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 1:13pm CDT

We’re nearing the end of our Mission: Impossible series as we review the fifth film in the franchise this week: Rogue Nation. We cover the introduction of MI6 agent Ilsa Faust, the immaculate pacing and structure of this film, and how the titular Rogue Nation is a little more like a Rogue Discord Group.

Also, why we hate breaking the car keys. (Recorded July 6th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._374_Mission_Impossible_Rogue_Nation.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, or as we like to call it, Ghost 4rotocol. Topics discussed include Ethan’s blood, bouncy houses, weird rings, the “kaboom” list, and the logistical nightmare that is running IMF.

Also, why we hate squirrels on the bird feeder. (Recorded Jun 27th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._373_Mission_Impossible_Ghost_Protocol.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 9:50am CDT

Today we’re talking about Mission: Impossible III, the 2006 course correction from acclaimed television director J.J. Abrams. We discuss how Henry likes this movie more than he should, how Samuel just thinks it’s forgettable, Ethan's flimsy cover story about traffic, and we pen a very special Hippocratic oath just for Julia.

Also, why we hate the second life of Henry’s watch. (Recorded June 19th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._372_Mission-_Impossible_3.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Mission: Impossible 2, a sequel that takes a sharp left turn in the wrong direction. We discuss the poor representation of Ethan Hunt’s morals, the complete lack of interesting global set pieces, and sort of start to lose our minds around the midway point.

Also, why we hate leaving your watch on in the pool. (Recorded June 11th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._371_Mission-_Impossible_2.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re embarking on our newest mini-series: reviewing all the Mission: Impossible films! We start at the very beginning in 1996, where we’re first introduced to Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt. Why did they drop the ball so hard on making him an action star with sex appeal? Why does the tech in this movie feel somehow dated and timeless? Who empties the trash can in the vault?

Also, why we hate bricking disc drives. (Recorded June 4th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._370_Mission-Impossible.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about physical media and media ownership in general. We discuss the benefits and reasons behind owning media physically, how we curate our own collections of movies, music, books, and games, and also just rant about how terrible the age of streaming content has become.

Also, why we hate how bad drivers have become. (Recorded May 29th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._369_Physical_Media.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Princess Mononoke, the 1997 classic that is truly one of Studio Ghibli’s best outings. We spend a lot of time talking about the movie but we also spend as much time arguing about color theory and sharing our favorite experiences in Tears of the Kingdom.

Also, why we hate mowing the lawn. (Recorded May 20th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._368_Princess_Mononoke.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Greta Gerwig’s 2019 remake of the beloved classic Little Women. We discuss the realistic and endearing portrayal of family bonds, the unrealistic portrayal of Florence Pugh as a 13-year-old, and ask the most important question: what’s the deal with Hannah?

Also, why we hate applying for a passport. (Recorded May 13th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._367_Little_Women.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

In preparation for Barbie later this summer, we’re covering Greta Gerwig’s two solo directorial efforts, starting with 2017’s Lady Bird. We discuss the flawed and familiar character of Lady Bird, the confident and mature directing from Gerwig, and we determine what physical attachment Lucas Hedges needs in each movie (in this movie, he needs a hug).

Also, why we hate when characters sit in the middle seat in the back of a car. (Recorded May 7th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._366_Lady_Bird.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Pokemon Infinite Fusion, that fan-game that asks the question: what if you could fuse two Pokemon together, and create entirely new monsters? We discuss how fun and imaginative this game is, Samuel walks through his Elite Four-winning team, and we discuss some of our other favorite fan projects including speedruns and randomizers.

Also, why we hate the death of single-minded focus. (Recorded April 30th, 2023.)

(Check out the Infinite Fusion Calculator here.)

Direct download: Ep._365_Pokemon_Infinite_Fusion.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:07pm CDT

This week we’re reviewing Portrait of a Lady on Fire, one of the best films in recent memory. We discuss the picturesque setting, the sparse yet poignant script, and the yummiest thing in the movie (it’s the midnight snack Marianne makes).

Also, why we hate when people read numbers in an arhythmic way. (Recorded April 23rd, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._364_Portrait_of_a_Lady_on_Fire.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Eyes Wide Shut, Kubrick’s final (and possibly weirdest?) film. We discuss the perfectionism on display throughout, the monetary cost of Bill’s odyssey, and we uncover the identity of the red cloak. There’s lots of other bits, it’s maybe the dumbest podcast we’ve ever recorded.

Also, why we hate foreign objects entering our eyes (skip to 11:25 if you wanna avoid this). (Recorded April 16th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._363_Eyes_Wide_Shut.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 4:56pm CDT

This week we’re knocking out the movie that’s been on Henry’s watchlist the longest: 1999’s Fight Club. Topics include the “we live in a society” themes and the flaws with that idea, the grungy and in-your-face attitude of the film, and we also wonder about the implications of getting your balls cut off.

Also, why we hate that we can’t talk about fight club. (Recorded April 10th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._362_Fight_Club.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:29pm CDT

Today we’re talking about 1988’s Grave of the Fireflies, a film that has been on Samuel’s watchlist longer than any other. We discuss the incredibly depressing and sad nature of the film, ponder the choices of the main character and how it compares to the real-life story, and wonder why ice cream flavors sometimes have terrible names.

Also, why we hate Apple’s filing system. (Recorded April 2nd, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._361_Graves_of_the_Fireflies.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 1:57pm CDT

This week we’re back with Rant Day VII, our seventh podcast that is full of rants, tangents, and not much else! We cover everything from mp3 files, ethernet cables, plastic wrap, the lack of card tables, the over-hyping, hyper-editing, and much more.

 

(Recorded March 28th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._360_Rant_Day_VII.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:00pm CDT

Today we’re continuing off our discussion of Yojimbo last week with the follow-up film Sanjuro. Topics include Mifune’s continued excellence, the beautiful imagery of the camellia flowers, and the question of whether or not JJ Abrams pioneered 80s nostalgia.

Also, why we hate Garageband’s MP3 restrictions. (Recorded March 19th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._359_Sanjuro.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:20pm CDT

This week we’re talking about the Kurosawa film Yojimbo, a pivotal film for both the western and samurai genres. We discuss the commanding central performance from Toshiro Mifune, the elegant simplicity of the plot and the setting, and wonder exactly how many ten year olds we could beat up.

Also, why we hate working when the time changes. (Recorded March 12, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._358_Yojimbo.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about The Banshees of Inisherin and closing the book on the 2022 awards season films. We discuss the depressing and dark tone throughout the movie, ponder the visual effects of the severed stumps, and give out our award for Outstanding Performance by a Dog.

 

Also, why we hate living with cat (hairs). (Recorded March 5th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._357_The_Banshees_of_Inisherin.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:56pm CDT

This week we’re talking about our top ten favorite movie endings. Topics covered include dream sequences, musical numbers, prison escape attempts, bowling pin bludgeoning, “loser dad” songs, and a brief aside about how silly the seven deadly sins are.

Also, why we hate streaming PC games to the living room TV. (Recorded February 26th, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._356_Top_Ten_Movie_Endings.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:42pm CDT

After taking a couple weeks off for the holidays, we’re back with what might very well be our longest episode to date with Avatar: The Way of Water. There’s so much to unpack as we discuss the breathtaking visual splendor, the still somewhat-hackneyed writing, the emotionally powerful third act, and try to figure out where this franchise is going to go from here.

Also, why we hate breaking your hand bowling. (Recorded January 1st, 2023.)

Direct download: Ep._349_Avatar_The_Way_of_Water.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we are covering the first half of Andor, a Star Wars so that we can both easily say is the best Star Wars thing Disney has made so far. We discuss the arcs in the first six episodes, the intricacies of all the terrifically-written characters, and also just shout Star Wars a bunch.

Also, why we hate streaming service glitches. (Recorded December 3rd, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._347_Andor_Part_1.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re finally wrapping up our series on Al Pacino with one of his… well, one of his movies. We discuss the man himself, get in to all the ways this movie is kinda morally corrupt and racist, and also spend too much time talking about The Godfather: Part III.

Also, why we hate right movie wrong time. (Recorded November 20th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._345_House_of_Gucci.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re continuing our Godfather coverage with the iconic sequel, The Godfather: Part II. We discuss the terrific tragedies, the fall of Michael Corleone, and ask the most important question: when will T2 Trainspotting get the recognition it deserves?

Also, why we hate sleeping in. (Recorded November 13th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._344_The_Godfather_Part_II.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re finally talking about The Godfather, the be-all-end-all of mafia films, 70s cinema, and arguably the greatest film of all-time. We discuss the corruption of Michael Corleone, the messy (but still good) second act, and make a startling comparison to an early 2000s sitcom.

Also, why we hate subtitles that don’t match. (Recorded November 6th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._343_The_Godfather.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Denzel Curry’s latest album Melt My Eyez See Your Future. We discuss the thematic elements of the album, the rich and layered music, and also question why The Smell of Death was included.

Also, why we hate autoplaying videos. (Recorded October 30th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._342_Melt_My_Eyez_See_Your_Future.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 9:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about Dog Day Afternoon, the sweatiest crime thriller. Topics discussed include the legacy of this film to the real-life events and people involved, the extremely tense back half of this movie, and trying to figure out where it fits in the rest of Al Pacino’s filmography.

Also, why we hate phone trees. (Recorded October 23rd, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._341_Dog_Day_Afternoon.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:14pm CDT

Today we’re turning up the heat and talking about… Heat. We discuss Michael Mann’s fantastic (and inspirational) directing, Al Pacino’s varied and captivating performance, Robert De Niro’s massive, massive suit, and much more.

Also, why we hate audio mixing and gunshots. (Recorded October 12th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._339_Heat.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about the things that bug us in movies: all the worst tropes, cliches, and pet peeves you can imagine. Join us as we discuss everything from a lack of dong, Swiss army scientists, quippy dialogue, “she’s the moon” girls, and much more.

Also, why we hate scooping popcorn. (Recorded October 5th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._338_Top_Five_Worst_Movie_Tropes.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:50pm CDT

Today we’re talking about Serpico, where Al Pacino plays the real-life lamplighter who exposed corruption in the New York City police force. We discuss the complicated character of Serpico, the incredible 70s style, and where this one fits in the pantheon of “based on a true story” films.

Also, why we hate when people ignore questions. (Recorded September 28th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._337_Serpico.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 1:31pm CDT

Today we review one of the most iconic gangster films, Scarface. This is a first-time watch for the both of us, so we discuss how we might have come to this one too late. We also discuss the cheesy dialogue, the insane runtime, and the undeniably wonderful (albeit problematic) performance from Al Pacino.

Also, why we hate audio-only GPS. (Recorded September 14th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._335_Scarface.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:49pm CDT

Today we’re talking about our top five favorite actors. Actors that we don’t necessarily think are the best, but whose work we will always seek out. We discuss everything from classic British actors, voice actors in every new Disney release, Mr. Music, a former child star turned dimension-jumping action star, and much more.

Also, why we hate the fluoride varnish painting. (Recorded August 3rd, 2022.)

(Also also, brief correction: when discussing Judas and the Black Messiah, Henry says Fred Ward a couple of times, but of course the activist's name was actually Fred Hampton.)

Direct download: Ep._329_Top_Five_Favorite_Actors.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 5:45pm CDT

Today we’re talking about Alien, the iconic sci-fi horror film from 1979. We discuss the impeccable style throughout the film, the great control of tension, and praise (and ponder) some of the biggest questions this movie sets up. 

Also, why we hate apartment parking, (Recorded July 20th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._327_Alien.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:40pm CDT

This week we’re reviewing Bad Education, Cory Finley’s sophomore feature starring Hugh Jackman as a corrupt superintendent. We discuss some of our mixed feelings on the character portrayals, praise the film’s airtight script, and go on an extended rant about respect for teachers and the parents that don’t give them any.

Also, why we hate rewiring our brains. (Recorded July 15h, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._326_Bad_Education.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:03pm CDT

Today we’re recapping and reviewing the latest season of Barry, Bill Hader’s deeply dark comedy about a hitman-turned-actor. We dissect all eight episodes and try to unpack why we feel so mixed about this show that is largely made up of arcs and artistic choices we both really enjoy.

Also, why we hate cancelling subscriptions. (Recorded July 6th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._325_Barry_Season_3.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:22pm CDT

This week we’re talking about RRR, one of the most insane and entertaining movies we’ve seen recently. We discuss the crazy antics and action sequences, the less-than-stellar romance subplots, and also we sing a big song at the end.

Also, why we hate right-of-way hesitation. (Recorded June 29th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._324_RRR.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:24pm CDT

The sixth Rant Day is upon us. In this all-rant filled special episode, join us as we talk about camping chairs, error messages, back pain, broken shorts, Woop Slap, and effort inertia. PLUS Henry’s incredibly long trial of ripping a DVD box set.

Also, if you wanna avoid the blood story, skip roughly 5:00 to 13:00. (Recorded June 8th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._322_Rant_Day_VI.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:46am CDT

This week we’re talking about Men, the latest nightmare from Alex Garland that we both pretty much hated. We discuss the confusing thematic elements, the grotesque final act, and the 40% retention rate of Samuel’s viewing audience.

Also, why we hate seat-stealing cats. (Recorded May 30th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._321_Men.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we talk about Face/Off, the 90s action movie that has defined the careers of both of its stars. We discuss the intense overacting, the ridiculous style, and wonder how a movie like this gets made at all.

Also, why we hate today’s Wordle answer. (Recorded May 23rd, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._320_Face.Off.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re reviewing the $3 indie sensation that’s sweeping the nation, Vampire Survivors. We discuss the addicting and delightfully simplistic gameplay, the obtuse mechanics, and have a larger conversation about the price of video games today.

Also, why we hate Friday the 13th (aka Samuel got a flat tire). (Recorded May 16th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._319_Vampire_Survivors.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 7:08pm CDT

Today we’re talking about the video game worlds we inhabit, all the levels and maps and cities and fields and event a planet or two. We discuss our favorite level design techniques, what we like to see in more open-world style games, and Henry gets put on a list for enjoying murder.

Also, why we hate phone shopping. (Recorded May 2nd, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._318_Video_Game_Levels.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re reviewing Taika Waititi’s darling little coming of age comedy, Hunt for the Wilderpeople. We discuss bad eggs, the overall b-tier quality applied to almost every single part of this movie, and haikus.

Also, why we hate pre-ordering in a pandemic. (Recorded April 25th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._317_Hunt_for_the_Wildpeople.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about some of the most interesting characters ever portrayed in film. These are characters we wanted to see more of, or we thought were fascinating, or there was just something incredibly authentic about them. Join us as we discuss oil men, psychopathic teenagers, French New Wave singers, Vietnam soldiers, hotel managers, music teachers, and much more.

Also, why we hate when the apartment floods. (Recorded April 18th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._316_Top_Five_Most_Interesting_Movie_Characters.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Everything Everywhere All at Once, the latest film from Daniels and the highest rated film on Letterboxd. We discuss the maximalist style of the film, the core themes that resonated with the both of us, and the terrific performances from the entire cast. 

Also, why we hate the lack of scrubs in our modern culture. (Recorded April 11th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._315_Everything_Everywhere_All_at_Once.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today it’s all about the journey, not the destination. We’re talking about all manner of travel, discussing everything from train travel, plane rides, cruise ships, and some of our favorite road trips. (We also go on lots of different tangents cause this topic idea was honestly pretty loose.)

Also, why we hate the curiosity of cats. (Recorded April 4th, 2022.)

Direct download: Planes_Trains_and_Automobiles.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:35pm CDT

This week we’re reviewing the Academy Award-winning film The Power of the Dog. We discuss the masterful directing by Jane Campion, the wonderful acting from our four leads, and do our best to try and answer some of the many questions the film left us with.

Also, why we hate the Oscars. (Recorded March 28th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._313_The_Power_of_the_Dog.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about The Batman, the latest big-screen adaptation of the Caped Crusader. We discuss Robert Pattinson’s performance, the questionable mystery elements, and admire just how downright silly some parts of this film are.

Also, why we hate movie ratings. (Recorded March 15th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._311_The_Batman.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re wrapping up our series on Denis Villeneuve by going through and ranking his movies. We each come to the table with our own list of ten, and discuss the director’s filmography as a whole.

Also, why we hate shower heads. (Recorded March 10th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._310_Denis_Villeneuve_Ranked.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re reviewing Arrival, the final Denis Villeneuve we have yet to talk about. We discuss our experiences watching this the first time, get into the philosophical questions this movie raises, and also spoil everything almost immediately, so maybe make sure to watch it first in this case.

Also, why we hate Nintendo not being inclusive with their controls. (Recorded February 28th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._309_Arrival.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we’re looking back on eight of the most significant years of their lives, our time on a FIRST Robotics team. We go over our 4 years of FLL, 4 years of FTC, some of the high and lows, and shocking revelations are made about how we first met.

Also, why we hate enthusiastic marketing. (Recorded February 21st, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._308_FIRST_Robotics.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we are reviewing Sicario, the 2015 film about drug cartels, government agencies, and a hitman at the center of both. We discuss the fantastic style, the marvelous tension, and go over some of our problems with the ultimate takeaways form this movie. 

Also, why we hate getting Coronavirus. (Recorded February 19th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._307_Sicario.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

Today we are looking to the future and each predicting six things that will definitely happen in the next year. Join us as we discuss everything from the royal family, cat games, GPUs, Coronavirus, Disney sequels, and blue people movies.

Also, why we hate consolidation in the video game space. (Recorded January 31st, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._306_2022_Predictions.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

(CW: This episode contains brief mentions of sexual assault throughout.)

This week we’re covering Incendies, which is somehow Denis’ darkest movie so far. We cover the dual past/present narrative of the film, the brilliant use of themes, and also theorize a secret global society of notaries. 

Also, why we hate western-facing windows. (Recorded January 25th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._305_Incendies.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:57am CDT

Today we’re looking back on 2021 in the most positive way we can, by shouting out some of our favorite art that came out that year, Join us as we discuss football plays, fantasy movies, true crime podcast TV shows, hitting men, cookbooks, DLC for the greatest game ever made, and so much more.

Also, why we hate 2021’s supply chain shortages. (Recorded January 17th, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._304_Best_Art_of_2021.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:00am CDT

(CW: This episode contains discussions of school shootings and gun violence throughout.)

This week we’re tackling 2009’s Polytechnique, and it’s one of the most difficult things we’ve had to review on this show. We discuss the style of the film, the things that were changed from the real life tragedy, and wonder what the benefit is in making a movie like this.

Also, why we hate ripped pants. (Recorded January 10th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._303_Polytechnique.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re finally getting around to reviewing Arcane, the popular League of Legends TV show on Netflix. We discuss how all the champions were portrayed, some of our favorite stylistic choices, and also make an obvious comparison to the Pixar movie Ratatouille. 

Also, why we hate dry hands. (Recorded January 3rd, 2022.)

Direct download: Ep._302_Arcane.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re checking out Denis’ sophomore film, Maelström. We try to unpack what’s going on with that fish, what’s going on with that woman, and also try to figure out what you’re supposed to do if you’re in a car in the water.

Also, why we hate gloves. (Recorded December 30th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._301_Maelstrom.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

It’s Episode 300! And we’ve got something very special to celebrate. Join Henry and Samuel as we listen through the very first episode of this podcast. We cringe along at the things that’ve changed and the ways we’ve grown, but also cringe at the things that’ve stayed the same. Also there’s some soundboard shenanigans!

Also, why we hate gift wrapping. (Recorded December 20th, 2021.)

Direct download: Episode_300.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re going all the way back to Denis Villeneuve’s first movie, August 32nd on Earth. We discuss what the unique title means to us, the interesting shot composition, and our complete shock at some parts of the ending.

Also, why we hate the smoke in Kansas City. (Recorded December 15th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._299_August_32nd_on_Earth.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re reviewing the second season of Barry on HBO. We discuss how the characters have changed between seasons, how the comedy feels more tight and quotable, and we discuss what season three could potentially hold.

Also, a follow-up on posteriors on pastries. (Recorded December 6th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._298_Barry_Season_2.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re continuing our series on Denis Villeneuve’s films with Enemy, where Jake Gyllenhaal plays two men that look exactly like each other. We talk about the color of the movie (yellow), the feel of the movie (sick), and get to the bottom of what the heck those spiders are all about.

Also, why we hate assertive birds. (Recorded November 29th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._297_Enemy.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about season 1 of Barry, the HBO show about a hitman who just wants to be an actor. We discuss the crazy cast of characters, the sharp balance of comedy and drama, and also wonder why those reporters had so many questions about Kurosawa. 

Also, why we hate the “War on Thanksgiving” crowd. (Recorded November 22nd, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._296_Barry_Season_1.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:48pm CDT

This week we’re reviewing the 2013 film Prisoners, and it’s… a lot. We discuss the brilliant performances from our two leads, the unique themes and undertones, and also all of the very strange plot holes because… we have a lot of questions.

Also, why we hate Fight Club Syndrome. (Recorded November 15th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._295_Prisoners.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we conclude our ranking of the ten greatest films of the 2010s. We debate over what makes it into the top ten, where we rank some of our personal favorites, and come to a pretty clean consensus on the top three or so. Henry also gets the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to break some crucial casting news to Samuel.

Also, why we hate feature film sorting on movie database sites. (Recorded November 8th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._294_Top_Ten_Movies_of_the_2010s_Part_2.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re traveling to the desert planet of Arrakis to cover Denis Villeneuve’s latest sci-fi epic, Dune. We talk about everything we loved about this movie, and how a lot of the things it changed from the book made sense for movie format. We also probably get a ton of lore stuff wrong, so that’s fun!

Also, why we hate the mediocre success of sci-fi epics. (Recorded November 1st, 2021.)

(Also also, here’s a link to the essay mentioned around 55 minutes in. It’s really long, but definitely worth the read if you have the time.)

Direct download: Ep._293_Dune.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today on the podcast, we’re creating a list of the ten greatest films of the past decade. Join us as we go through a list of thirtyish potentials, and decide what has truly impacted the both of us, and what needs to unfortunately be left behind.

Also, Henry’s experience carving a pumpkin this year. (Recorded October 25th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._292_Top_Ten_Movies_of_the_2010s_Part_1.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:50pm CDT

This week we’re reviewing Logan, the much-revered superhero film that everyone seems to have forgotten about. We discuss some of this movie’s obvious inspirations, the pretty good performances, and our feelings on this film having seen (practically) no X-Men movies.

Also, why we hate unusual power supply shapes. (Recorded October 18th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._291_Logan.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re talking about puzzles, the classic challenges that tickle your brain and make you go “ah-ha!”. Join us as we discuss everything from crosswords, Rubik’s Cubes, and the classic story of five pirates that don’t know how to split up treasure.

Also, why we hate rain delays. (Recorded October 11th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._290_Puzzles.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 3:57pm CDT

This week we’re talking about Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, the latest and (in Samuel’s opinion) greatest Marvel movie. We discuss the dynamic action throughout, the fantastic main antagonist, and complain about all the stuff that drags it down (hint: it’s all the normal Marvel stuff).

Also, why we hate new TVs. (Recorded October 4th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._289_Shang_Chi.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re concluding out lists of top ten TV episodes, by each rattling off our top five. Join us as we talk through ski lodge hi-jinks, devil robot’s hands, German contractors, a singing moose played by Art Garfunkel, and of course, horse funerals.

Also, why we hate that our younger siblings are better at chess than us. (Recorded September 20th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._288_Top_Ten_TV_Episodes_Part_2_-_10221_3.40_PM.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re talking about Sonic Mania, sometimes regarded as the greatest Sonic game in this century. We discuss the Sonic series as a whole, the questionable gameplay in this game, and posit the age-old question: is Sonic actually good?

Also, why we hate the undefinable genre of Sonic. (Recorded September 20th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._287_Sonic_Mania.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 10:46pm CDT

Today we’ve each prepared a list of our top ten favorite episodes of television! Join us in this first part as we go through science fiction gates, annoying flies, hospitals that look like sitcoms, depressing stop-motion animation, and, inevitably, anime.

Also, our thoughts on The Matrix Resurrections trailer. (Recorded September 13th, 2021.) 

Direct download: Ep._286_Top_Ten_TV_Episodes_Part_1.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 2:47pm CDT

This week we review the newest addition into Netflix’s Witcher universe, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf. We discuss the unoriginal art style, the surprisingly intricate ideas and philosophies within this story, and inevitably get several facts about the Witcher lore incredibly wrong. Don’t write us. 

Also, why we hate creativity-free jokes. (Recorded Sept 6th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._285_The_Witcher-_Nightmare_of_the_Wolf.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:58pm CDT

Today we are talking all about cars, the 2006 movi—wait, sorry, we’re actually just talking about cars as a subject. Join us as we discuss our favorite kinds of cars, what we like to drive, and we recount some of our own terrifying stories of car accidents and ownership.

Also, why we hate Samuel’s “utter incompetence.” (Recorded August 30th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._284_Cars.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

This week we’re back recording in the same room together! And on top of that, we’re reviewing one of the most highly anticipated films of the year, The Green Knight. We talk about the strange and surreal plot, Samuel’s love of the sound design, and Henry’s fascination with a certain set of characters that appear.

Also, why we hate semi-moving. (Recorded August 16th, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._283_The_Green_Knight.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Today we’re talking all about writing, covering everything from our writing habits to how and where we honed our writing skills. We discuss writing in academic settings, writing just for fun, and Samuel reveals the strange thing he does with the letter O.

Also, why we hate eating melty ice cream. (Recorded August 2nd, 2021.)

Direct download: Ep._282_On_Writing.mp3
Category:Comedy -- posted at: 12:18am CDT