Movie Wars

In this episode of Movie Wars, Wolfgang Bodison joins us to tell one of the most legendary origin stories in Hollywood history—and it's all true. Bodison went from sorting mail at Castle Rock to starring alongside Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore in A Few Good Men, all without a single acting credit to his name.

He takes us through the wild journey that started behind the scenes on Misery and Boyz N the Hood, working as a PA, a picture car coordinator, and eventually the location manager on A Few Good Men. That is, un...

In this episode of Movie Wars, we take a deep dive into the explosive legacy of Independence Day (1996) with Joel Beasley, comedian and host of the Modern CTO podcast. This isn’t just a nostalgia trip—we’re asking the big question: Does this genre-defining blockbuster still hold up in today’s cinematic landscape?

We break down what made Independence Day such a cultural juggernaut—its record-breaking box office, iconic one-liners, unforgettable alien battles, and of course, Will Smith’s rocket-launch into Hollywood superstardom. But we also get real about what hasn’t aged well: clunky writing, thin character...

Comedian and full-time May Queen Marianna Barksdale returns to Movie Wars to break down one of her all-time favorite films: Midsommar. And yes, we’re releasing this on the actual Midsummer holiday — because we love a good ritual.

We dive deep into Ari Aster’s sun-drenched horror masterpiece — grief, gaslighting, mushrooms, and messed-up relationships all included. Marianna shares why Midsommar hits her on such a personal level, and we debate whether Christian is truly a bad boyfriend or just a 24-year-old idiot. This episode mixes hilarity, honesty, and film nerdery like only Movie Wars can.

In this episode of the Movie Wars podcast, stand-up comedian Marianna Barksdale brings her unique perspective as a former ballerina to our in-depth dive into Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan. Together, hosts Kyle and Seth explore the complex relationship between perfectionism and psychological breakdown, as embodied by Natalie Portman’s iconic performance as Nina Sayers.

We unpack Nina’s struggle with the duality of the white and black swan, exploring themes of obsession, identity, and the toll of striving for artistic excellence. Marianna’s first-hand experience in the ballet world provides an authentic and intimate lens through which to und...

🎙️ Sparta, Abs, and HBO-Caliber Sass: Comedian James Holiday Joins the War on “300”

Nashville comedy phenom James Holiday drops into the Movie Wars arena to help us tackle one of the most quotable and visually iconic films of the 2000s—300. From the slow-mo spear throws to Xerxes’ glistening body oil, we cover it all.

We break down Zack Snyder’s graphic novel fever dream: the shredded Spartans, the era-defining style, and how 300 became a cultural touchstone for dudes who discovered spray-tan abs. James brings both heart and hilarity, sharing insights from the stage, the makeup chai...

Nick Swardson on the Revival of Rated-R Comedy, Happy Gilmore 2, and Blades of Glory

This week, comedy legend Nick Swardson joins us for one of the most fun, candid, and wide-ranging conversations we’ve ever had. From behind-the-scenes stories on Blades of Glory to joining the legacy of Happy Gilmore 2, Nick shares his mission to bring back the loud, unapologetic energy of Rated-R comedy.

We get into his 30-year stand-up career, his start writing and starring in Grandma’s Boy, and his long-running creative partnership with Adam Sandler. He breaks down why R-rated comedies always seem...

Got it! Here's the corrected version with Seth as the Speed Racer defender instead of Will—and still optimized for SEO and your voice:

🎙️ Speed Racer: The Cult Classic That Was Too Ahead of Its Time (ft. Will Abeles)

Start your engines—because this episode is pure candy-colored chaos. Touring comedian Will Abeles joins us as Seth defends one of the most misunderstood movies of the 2000s: Speed Racer. That’s right—Seth’s calling it his third favorite movie of all time, and he’s ready to die on that rainbow-striped hill.

We di...

🎬 Welcome to Movie Wars — where comedy meets cinema analysis.

Hosted by Kyle Castro and Seth Kays, Movie Wars is what happens when stand-up comics, filmmakers, artists, celebrity guests, and a few smart weirdos get way too obsessed with movies — and start scoring them in a gladiator-style showdown.

Each week, we dive deep into the films you love (and love to argue about), breaking them down across a custom scorecard that blends craft, chaos, and comedy. From cult classics to critical darlings, we debate cast, direction, writing, and whatever wild stuff we find behind the scenes — and we do...

🎙️ Collateral — LA Crime, Michael Mann Vibes, and Will Abeles' Murder Ride

This week on Movie Wars, we dive into Michael Mann’s Collateral — a movie where Tom Cruise plays the most terrifying silver fox since Anderson Cooper, and Jamie Foxx gets one night to decide if he’s a cab driver or a hero. We’re joined by our good friend and touring standup Will Abeles, who took a break from crisscrossing the country to talk LA noir, digital cinematography, and, oh yeah — the time he gave a real-life Vincent a ride across Nashville.

We talk about how Co...

🎙️ Hard Target – Mullets, Doves, and Van Damme’s Mid-Tier Legacy

Featuring Joe & Vance from Boys Watching Buffy

On this episode of Movie Wars, we’re throwing roundhouse kicks into the Louisiana swamp and diving into Hard Target, the chaotic, mullet-soaked fever dream that marked John Woo’s American debut. I’m joined by Joe and Vance from the hilarious podcast Boys Watching Buffy, where they bring their sharp humor and fresh takes to cult TV classics like Buffy, Angel, Veronica Mars, and more.

We dig into everything: Van Damme’s mid-tier action s...

We’re wrapping up our journey through the Bill and Ted trilogy with the final film, Face the Music — and joining us for the ride is touring comedian Evan Berke, who brings both sharp wit and real insight to this surprisingly emotional sequel.

Thank you to my dear friend Boys Watching Buffy and The Revisionist Almanac for providing a trailer.

Enjoy their shows!Nearly 30 years after Bogus Journey, Bill and Ted are back — older, still optimistic, and now raising daughters while trying to save the world (again). In this episode, we break down how Face the Mu...

We’re back for part two of our deep dive into the Bill and Ted trilogy, and this time we’re tackling Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey with our guest, stand-up comedian Evan Berke. This sequel takes a wild left turn from the goofy time-travel fun of the original and dives headfirst into the afterlife—with robot clones, evil versions of our heroes, and one of the greatest portrayals of Death in movie history. We talk about how the tone shifts hard, why that works (or doesn’t), and why this movie’s weirdness might actually make it the boldest...

Legendary Nashville comedian Evan Berke graces our podcast to delve into his cherished cinematic trilogy, "Bill and Ted." The discourse commences with a profound appreciation for the simplicity and charm of these films, particularly their unique blend of time travel and buddy comedy. We explore the intricacies of character development and the underlying themes of friendship and aspiration that resonate throughout the series. Berke's insights illuminate how these seemingly frivolous narratives encapsulate deeper truths about personal growth and the pursuit of dreams. Furthermore, we take a moment to recommend his stand-up special, "Twice Removed," an endeavor that showcases his...

The Movie Wars crew thoroughly and hilariously dissect "Dredd" (2012), where Nashville comedian Joshua Lewis joins hosts Seth and Kyle to elucidate the stark contrasts between this interpretation and its predecessor, the 1995 iteration starring Sylvester Stallone. From the outset, we delve into how "Dredd" presents a markedly different narrative approach, characterized by its immersive world-building and a more nuanced portrayal of its titular character. The discussion highlights the film's effective use of visual storytelling, notably through its innovative cinematography and sound design, contributing to a gripping cyberpunk atmosphere. Throughout the conversation, the trio examines the performances of the cast, particularly...

In this discourse, Seth and Kyle are joined by the esteemed Joshua Lewis, a venerable figure in the Nashville comedy landscape, to delve into the cinematic adaptation of Judge Dredd featuring Sylvester Stallone. The salient point of our conversation revolves around the intricate interplay between the film's narrative shortcomings and the expectations set forth by its comic book origins. We engage in a critical examination of the movie's tonal inconsistencies, particularly its attempts at humor juxtaposed with the dark themes inherent in the source material. The dialogue further explores the implications of star power on creative decisions, particularly focusing...

The culmination of our "Kill Bill" series finds us delving into Volume 2, where a fervent discussion unfolds between Matthew Blevins, a stand-up comic and film critic, and Seth, who approaches the film with a healthy dose of skepticism. The primary focus of this episode is the contrasting perspectives on the film's narrative depth and stylistic choices, particularly as Matthew passionately defends the cinematic merits of "Kill Bill: Volume 2," while Seth articulates his reservations regarding its pacing and climactic resolution. As we navigate this dialogue, we witness the intricate dance between Matthew's enthusiasm and Seth's critical analysis, which allows for...

The esteemed comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins(who joined Kyle on the Mad Max series) brings his perspective to the Kill Bill series. Kyle, Seth, and Matthew bring three very different perspectives on what may be Tarantino's best work. We discussed pacing, length, and writing as areas of differing thought among Tarantino fans.

The podcast episode features a compelling dialogue among the hosts, including the guest, comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins. The discussion centers on Quentin Tarantino's renowned cinematic work, the Kill Bill series, with a particular focus on the distinctive elements that characterize this...

The illustrious John Datoy, a Nashville-based comedian and world-renowned yo-yo champion, graces us once again with his presence on the Movie Wars podcast. In this engaging episode, we delve into the intricacies of the animated film "The Adventures of Tintin," exploring its visual storytelling and the innovative use of motion capture technology. John shares his unique insights on how the film's animation techniques compare to traditional filmmaking, particularly in the realm of adventure narratives. The conversation also touches upon the cultural significance of the source material, as well as the film's character dynamics, revealing the complexities of portraying a...

This podcast episode delves into the cinematic exploration of Robert Eggers' film, "The Northman," presenting it as a quintessential epic that transcends conventional storytelling. We engage in a thorough analysis of the film's historical accuracy, character development, and the unique directorial style of Eggers, who has emerged as a significant auteur in contemporary cinema. Our discussion encompasses the film's profound thematic elements, such as revenge and destiny, while also examining the profound impact of its visual aesthetics and sound design. We express our admiration for the cast's performances, particularly highlighting the complexities brought forth by Nicole Kidman and Alexander...

This podcast episode delves into the intricate layers and profound themes of Terry Gilliam's cinematic masterpiece, "Brazil." We explore how the film serves as a poignant critique of bureaucracy, illustrating a dystopian world where absurdity permeates daily life. As we dissect the film's visual style and narrative structure, we emphasize the significance of its surrealistic elements, allowing viewers to perceive the world through a lens that questions authority and societal norms. The conversation also touches upon the film's historical context, relating its relevance to contemporary issues. Ultimately, we celebrate "Brazil" not merely as a film but as a catalyst...

"Before The Devil Knows You're Dead" serves as a profound exploration of familial dysfunction, characterized by the stark performances of Ethan Hawke and Philip Seymour Hoffman, under the masterful direction of Sidney Lumet in his final cinematic endeavor.

Kyle was honored to be joined by Seth Keys and our guest host, Mozart Gabriel, who most recently directed Metallica's music video "Inamorata."

More on Mozart: Gabriel is the son of Native American famous artist Tony Abeyta, and up runner Project Runway season 11 star Patricia Michaels. Born in Santa Fé NM. Gabriel was raised in Chicago IL, t...

Kyle has his friend, standup comedian, and film critic Matthew Blevins join for the final entry of the Movie Wars Mad Max series. We close out with the controversial final chapter, Furiosa. We delve into the stark contrasts between this latest installment and its predecessors, particularly focusing on the diminished depth of character and narrative coherence that plagued "Furiosa." Our discourse scrutinizes the portrayal of the titular character, Furiosa, as well as the lack of engaging villains, which ultimately detracts from the film's potential impact. Furthermore, we explore the overall cinematic techniques employed, lamenting the absence of the gritty...

The culmination of our exploration into the Snyder Trilogy series has arrived, as we delve into the intricacies of Zack Snyder's Justice League, a project emblematic of the profound influence of fan advocacy in contemporary cinema. The episode is punctuated by a thoughtful examination of the transformative journey from the initial theatrical release to the acclaimed Snyder Cut, which has engendered a fervent discourse surrounding artistic integrity and creator vision. We will scrutinize pivotal themes, such as the depth of character development afforded to figures like Cyborg and the ramifications of the narrative's darker undertones. In the context of...

The third episode of our Snyder trilogy series delves into the much-maligned Joss Whedon version of Justice League, often referred to as JOSSTICE LEAGUE. This film, criticized for its lack of cohesive storytelling and character development, represents a stark departure from Zack Snyder's envisioned narrative. The hosts dissect the significant issues that arose during production, including the poor treatment of cast members and the noticeable tonal shifts that left audiences disengaged. With a focus on the cast's performance, they explore how the actors seemed exhausted and uninvested, reflecting the chaotic environment behind the scenes. Ultimately, the episode underscores the...

Adam G. Simon (also known as Adam Gregory Simon) is a Los Angeles-born screenwriter, producer, and actor for television and film who now resides and produces In Southeast Asia with his partner Larissa Andrade, where they are raising their son.

As a writer, Adam is known for his work as the writer of Point Blank (2019) an action film for Netflix, based on Fred Cavaye's French Action Thriller, "A Bout Portant". The film was directed by Joe Lynch and stars Anthony Mackie, Marcia Gay Harden, Frank Grillo, Teyonah Paris, Boris McGiver, and Markice Moore. While critics mostly panned the...

Welcome back to the Movie Wars Podcast as we dive deep into the controversial waters of Zack Snyder's Batman Vs. Superman: Dawn Of Justice. We're continuing our exploration of Snyder's trilogy as James Gunn's "Superman" trailers makes the rounds. This episode explores the divisive nature of the film, sparked by the recent release of James Gunn's Superman trailer, which has reignited discussions about the character's portrayal on screen. Our hosts passionately debate the strengths and weaknesses of the film, focusing on the impact of Jesse Eisenberg's interpretation of Lex Luthor and the underwhelming representation of Doomsday. As they dissect...

Join Kyle as he welcomes his friend and hilarious Atlanta-based comedian, Nathan Owens, to celebrate the release of Nathan's new comedy special "Possum Daddy," available everywhere! Their conversation dives deep into the film "Moneyball," exploring how it uniquely blends humor and drama while tackling the complexities of baseball through a numbers-driven lens. Nathan shares his perspective on the film's portrayal of sports and the authenticity of its characters, emphasizing how it captures the essence of the game. As they discuss the strengths of the film, they also reflect on the challenges of making sports movies that resonate with both...

The Movie Wars crew dives into the Snyder Trilogy by kicking off their discussion with "Man of Steel," motivated by James Gunn's recent trailer for a new Superman movie. The hosts debate the film's portrayal of Superman and his struggle with identity, examining how it balances the hero's alien nature with his human upbringing. They also explore the impact of supporting characters like Jor-El, Martha Kent, and Zod, with particular praise for Michael Shannon's performance as a compelling villain. The conversation touches on the film's visual style, the effectiveness of its action sequences, and the tone that Snyder sets...

The Big Lebowski is a film that has garnered a cult following and is often regarded as a masterpiece, yet it presents a complex dichotomy between its comedic elements and deeper philosophical themes. Kyle, Seth Keys, and JR Robles dive into a spirited discussion about how the film's characters embody various worldviews, particularly focusing on the contrasting philosophies of the Dude and Walter. As they explore the film's legacy and impact over the years, they reflect on how its initial reception differed drastically from its current status in pop culture. The conversation touches on the humor and absurdity woven...

Kyle, Seth, and JR Robles(co-founder and prodcuer of Dare To Fail Film) dive into the complexities of Christopher Nolan's least critically acclaimed film, *Tenet*, which still holds a respectable score of 69% on Rotten Tomatoes. They explore how the film's release during the pandemic affected its reception, as many moviegoers were not in the mood for a challenging narrative that demands close attention. The conversation highlights Nolan's unique approach to filmmaking, particularly his commitment to practical effects and intricate storytelling, which sets him apart in the industry. Amid their discussion, they consider whether *Tenet* deserves a spot in Nolan's...

Kyle had the honor of sitting down with Mat Newman, the acclaimed editor behind Nicolas Winding Refn's distinctive films, including "Drive," "Only God Forgives," "Bronson," and "Neon Demon." Their conversation delves into the unique visual and narrative style that Newman brings to Refn's projects, highlighting how his editing techniques create moments that resonate deeply with audiences. Mat shares insights into his unconventional career path, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration between director and editor in crafting a film's identity. The episode also touches on the evolving landscape of film editing, discussing the impact of technology and AI on...

Nashville comedians Mariana Brown and Seth Kays join Kyle to discuss "Sometimes I Think About Dying," a film featuring Star Wars star Daisy Ridley that explores themes of depression and suicidal ideation. The trio delves into the movie's execution, highlighting its potential but also critiquing its lack of depth and engaging dialogue. They share their thoughts on the film’s portrayal of office life, which left them feeling uninspired and disconnected. The conversation also touches on the film's visual style and directing choices, which some found lacking in creativity and complexity. Ultimately, the discussion raises questions about how to ef...

Merry Christmas and welcome to a special crossover episode of the Quarter Mile Podcast and Movie Wars Podcast! This episode features a delightful conversation between hosts Drew Davis and Kyle Castro, diving deep into the iconic film Point Break, which has been a significant influence on the Fast and Furious franchise. Kyle shares his personal connection to Point Break, revealing how it shaped his perspective on action films and storytelling. The discussion also touches on the evolution of action heroes, highlighting how Keanu Reeves brought a new complexity to the genre through his portrayal of Johnny Utah. Along the...

Horror fanatic and premier Nashville standup comedian Marianna Brown joins Seth and Kyle to discuss "The Shining," a film that holds a top 10 spot for Kyle. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel, highlighting the stark differences between the two versions and the director's unique vision. Marianna, a self-proclaimed Kubrick superfan, shares her insights on the film's psychological horror elements, the iconic performances, and the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Kubrick’s work. The episode also examines the infamous tension between King and Kubrick, exploring how that dynamic influenced the film's legacy. Wi...

This episode dives deep into the film "Falling Down," exploring its relevance and impact more than three decades after its release. Hosts Kyle, Seth, and returning guest Mariana Brown discuss the film's portrayal of societal frustrations and the character's descent into chaos as he grapples with feelings of displacement in a rapidly changing world. They reflect on how the film captures the essence of the American experience, particularly in the context of the 1990s and how it resonates with contemporary issues. The conversation also touches on the film's cinematography, directing, and the performances of Michael Douglas and Robert Duvall...

Movie Wars Podcast welcomes one of Nashville's funniest comedians, Marianna Brown, to discuss the film Drive, a movie that defied audience expectations and studio intentions. Initially thought to be a high-octane heist film akin to Grand Theft Auto or Gone In 60 Seconds, Drive transformed under the creative vision of director Nicolas Winding Refn and lead actor Ryan Gosling into an arthouse masterpiece that left both viewers and financiers perplexed. The conversation dives into the film's unique elements, such as its minimal dialogue and striking visuals, which contribute to its hauntingly beautiful narrative. Marianna shares her insights on the characters...

This week, we dive deep into the exhilarating world of "Mad Max: Fury Road," exploring its status as one of the greatest action films of all time. With the backdrop of a desolate and ravaged landscape, we discuss how George Miller masterfully blends stunning visuals, practical effects, and a hauntingly emotional storyline, making this film a true cinematic masterpiece.

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Kyle and comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins dive deep into "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome," the third installment of the iconic franchise. The duo discusses how this film strays from the gritty, innovative essence of its predecessors, feeling more like a product of the 80s than a continuation of the Mad Max legacy.

SPONSOR NOTES: Looking for a gift for the movie lover in your life? Grab a vintage, midcentury movie poster of your favorite show, film, or sports team from our sponsor Sandgrain Studio! Black FridayCode: DECKTHEHALLS

They express disappointment with the film's lack...

Is 2018's Upgrade a rebirth of 80's sci-fi favorites in the vein of Total Recall? This episode of the Movie Wars Podcast dives deep into the film "Upgrade," highlighting its innovative approach to the sci-fi genre, particularly in how it explores the intersection of technology and humanity. The hosts discuss the significance of the film's unique visual style and action sequences, emphasizing the director Leigh Whannell's ability to create a compelling narrative within a low-budget framework. They analyze the character dynamics, particularly the relationship between the protagonist Gray and the AI Stem, noting how the twist reveals Stem as the...

WHEN WILL THE REBOOTS END? The Crew was going to do Falling Down today (we'll do it in a couple of weeks), but then they announced the dreaded American Psycho reboot. Queue the collective groans. This episode dives deep into the cultural implications and frustrations surrounding the incessant trend of Hollywood reboots, with a particular focus on the upcoming American Psycho remake. The crew discusses their thoughts on the original film, its adaptation from Bret Easton Ellis's novel, and how the unique elements of the story may be lost in translation. With lively debates on the effectiveness of the...