The Fandom Outpost
Listen in to three best friends who grew up on the nerdier side of the 70s and 80s. Back then, they experienced some of the greatest fandoms those eras had to offer. Now, they belong in a museum. Join them as they bring you discussion, reviews, and fun on all things movies, gaming, comics, toys, and pop culture.
What Counts As A Horror Movie? | Exploring The Grey Area
Bob and Ron offer their best examples of movies which they feel can be categorized as a horror movie but may not be thought of that way. They pose the question: "If you were working in a video store, which shelf would you put this movie on?". See what movies you agree with!Â
'Predator' (1987) Retrospective
Jim, Mark and Bob explore the deep jungles of Central America to bring you all of their perspectives on 'Predator' (1987), offering their insights on what made this sci-fi/action/horror movie one of the best of the '80's'. Buckle up, grab some chew, flip on the old boombox and take a fun ride uncovering all that makes 'Predator' one of Arnold Schwarzenegger's best films.Â
'Manhunter' (1986) Retrospective | Michael Mann's Neo-Noir Fever Dream
Bob and Mark dive into one of Bob's favorite films, 'Manhunter', from 1986 starring William Petersen, Tom Noonan, Joan Allen, Brian Cox and Denis Farina. One of the very first films to explore the concept of FBI profiling in serial murders, this film not only introduced the Hannibal Lecter cinematic world but also made an indelible mark with highly stylized visual storytelling. Get ready to "walk the route" and explore one of Michael Mann's most creative films in his filmography.Â
'To Live and Die in L.A.' (1985) | Antihero Masterpiece
Bob and Mark review William Friedkin's brilliant Neo-noir criminal thriller "To Live and Die in L.A." (1985). Bob's dream to collaborate with Mark on an episode of one of his favorite films has finally come true. They look at Special Agent Richard Chance (William Petersen), a nihilistic antihero who will stop at nothing to get revenge on counterfeiter Rick Masters (Willem Dafoe) for killing his longtime Secret Service partner. The film's highlights are analyzed, including the thrilling chase sequences and great performances by a cast that includes John Turturro, Dean Stockwell, Debra Feuer, and John Pankow. They also discuss...
'The Thing' (1982) Retrospective | What It Means To Us
Bob, Mark and Jim take a journey back to Antarctica, 1982 to re-visit John Carpenterâs horror classic, âThe Thingâ. The guys offer their unique views on the movie, from plot points and characters to special effects and the soundtrack. Nothing is left on the table. This one is near and dear to their movie-loving hearts so sit back and enjoy this look back at âThe Thingâ.Â
'28 Years Later: The Bone Temple' Spoiler Review | Humans are the Worst!
Bob and Ron team up to review '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple', the latest installment in the zombie/infected film series from Danny Boyle and Alex Garland. How does this one connect to the previous movie and where might the series go from here? The guys review and discuss. Spoilers ahead!Â
Gen Xers React To 'Stranger Things' Series Finale
Jim, Mark and Bob take a look at the 'Stranger Things' series finale through the lens of Gen X. Find out what are their views are on how the series ended. Did the Duffer Brothers stick the landing? What themes hit the Gen X hosts the most and how did this finale relate to their experiences growing up in the 80s and moving into adulthood?Â
'The Accountant 2' - Worth Your Time?
Mark goes solo and reviews the action-thriller 'The Accountant 2', the sequel to 2016's 'The Accountant'. Ben Affleck, Jon Bernthal, Cynthia Addai-Robinson and J. K. Simmons reprise their roles from the previous film, with Daniella Pineda joining the cast. Check out his thoughts on this second installment and see whether it's worth your time to stream on digital.Â
'Stranger Things' S5 Part 1 | What's Working & What Isn't
Jim, Mark and Bob are talking the 'Stranger Things' Season 5 (Part 1). What is working and what isn't? The guys jump into the 80s nostalgia neck deep to offer their takes on the hit show. Has everyone aged out or does it still pack an upside punch?Â
'Frankenstein' (2025) | By The Book?
Jim and Bob explore the new 'Frankenstein' movie from Guillermo del Toro in this latest installment of Fright Night For Reel. How much of Mary Shelley's original novel is in the movie and does it really matter anymore? They also take a look at how other 'Frankenstein' movies over the years compare to del Toro's version and have some fun with the effect the Creature has had on pop culture.Â
'Terror In The Aisles' (1984) Retrospective | Drew Struzan Tribute
What if I told you there's a horror movie that stars Jack Nicholson, Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Sly Stallone, Rutger Hauer, Donald Sutherland, Wings Hauser, Sissy Spacek, Dustin Hoffmann, Gregory Peck, Clint Eastwood, Roy Scheider and other huge stars? Well, kind of. It's the awesome horror "documentary" 'Terror In The Aisles' (1984), a movie that introduced us to the genres of horror & thriller during our teen years. We discuss the significance of it and share our stories from its release at the start of the burgeoning home video era. Later in the episode we pay tribute to legendary movie poster...
Great Horror Movies That Didn't Need a Sequel | Fright Night, For Reel
Bob and special guest Ron talk about outstanding horror films that didn't require a sequel in this horror-focused sub-podcast from the Fandom Outpost. Did Hollywood give up because the movie was so horrible, or was it so good that it wasn't needed? Along with discussing their favorite found-footage horror films, they also go into the latest 'Weapons' prequel news and discuss some of the forthcoming horror films they are keeping an eye on.
To Open Or Not? | The Great Action Figure Debate
Bob, Mark, and Jim are getting nerdy, people. They are discussing toy collecting. Specifically, action figures and the best ways to enjoy the hobby. Is there a correct answer to the age-old question that toy collectors have been asking since the beginning of toy collecting? Should figures be unboxed or kept in their packaging? Find out when the guys share their own collecting tendencies. If you enjoy the hobby, this Collector's Corner episode is for you!
2025 Summer Recap: These Are A Few Of Our Favorite Things
Jim, Mark and Bob talk about some of their favorite movies, TV shows and books they discovered over the summer. Join them for a rapid fire discussion on all their summer fun!
Did Superman & The Fantastic Four Save The Day?
Mark, Jim and Bob take on the two most anticipated superhero movies in years. James Gunn's 'Superman and Marvel's "The Fantastic Four: First Steps'. Find out how the guys feel about these two blockbusters along with gaining some insights into the future of DC and Marvel.Â
Growing Up With 'Jaws' | The 50th Anniversary Retrospective
Join us for an exciting journey into the deep waters of 'Jaws' with this 50th anniversary retrospective. It's been 50 years in the making and we want to share what this movie has meant to us. Share some fun anecdotes and stories from when we first saw 'Jaws' back in the day. We also discuss the cultural impact and significance of Spielberg's man vs. nature masterpiece in film history. There are also a couple of fun surprises including some special gifts Jim had left for his cohosts unbeknownst to them and one free 4K digital code shown in this episode...
'Friday The 13th': Parts 1-3 | What Made Them So Great
 Mark, Jim, and Bob, explore the first 3 films in the iconic horror series âFriday the 13thâ and discuss the influence they had on the genre in this episode. They share their own experiences with the series, the importance of characters like Mrs. Voorhees, and the idea of the final girl. They also touch on the impact of 3D technology in horror and the inventive way that kills are carried out in these first 3 installments. The guys talk in-depth about famous deaths throughout the âFridayâ series, examine the history and development of the recognizable hockey mask, and contrast Jason with other hor...
'Andor' Season 2 Wrap Up Discussion
Jim & Bob discuss the final Season of 'Andor' and offer their key takeaways, favorite moments and characters. Did it live up to what Bob was hoping to get after the long wait since Season 1? How did Jim sell his wife on watching it? Find out in this fun exploration of 'Andor' Season 2. This episode contains spoilers.
We Have Issues: Ashcan Episode | Our Comic Collecting Origin Stories
Welcome to the inaugural (Ashcan) installment of The Fandom Outpost's "We Have Issues" series. Every story has a beginning. Through their own experiences, Mark, Jim, and special guest Robbie share their perspectives on the joys of comic collecting. Their goal is to share with you their experiences in the hobby, which they have accumulated since they were kids in the 1970âs. The boys dive into all the fun and excitement that comics have to offer, from their most treasured issues to their favorite comic book creators.
Will You Pay Over $50 For A Steelbook?
Wholly Cow, are these prices getting out of control? Has the recent uptick in 4K Steelbook pricing affected your physical media collecting? Jim, Mark and Bob take a look at what is happening within the 4K collecting hobby and discuss how they are dealing with it.Â
Our Favorite Baseball Movies - "I'm Not Crying, You're Crying" [Extended]
Bob and Mark are talkin' baseball - well, more specifically, talkin' about their favorite baseball movies. They take you on a journey from the old Houston Astrodome to the cornfields of Iowa, and all the way to Yankee Stadium, as they reminisce about some of the greatest baseball films ever made. So sit back, dig into some Big League Chew and enjoy!
'The Keep' (1983) - Michael Mann's Magnificent Disaster
Mark, Jim and Bob dive into the 1983 supernatural thriller/horror film âThe Keepâ in this episode. Directed by Michael Mann, this film has a notorious production story that has contributed to both positive and negative views over the years as it has gained cult status. The guys discuss and review the film in detail covering its outstanding cast, Tangerine Dream soundtrack, and the place it now holds in film lore.
Interview with Indie Horror Filmmaker Matt Schmidt
Weâre talking independent horror with Matt Schmidt, filmmaker, screenwriter and founder of Acres Films. Matt offers an insightful journey into his cinematic inspirations and creative processes as we discuss his latest independent horror films, â#TheChallengeâ (2022) and âMr. Sandmanâ (2024). From found footage to slashers to classic horror, the guys and Matt share their love of the horror genre and discuss their all-time favorites in this casual and fun interview. Matt also gives us a look behind the curtain as he traverses his way through the independent film landscape. Join us for a fun ride through the eyes of an independen...
'Nosferatu' (2024) - Did It Suck? *Spoiler Discussion*
Mark, Jim, and Bob have a lot to say about Roberts Eggers' widely anticipated "Nosferatu" (2024). Some are good; some are not. What distinguishes this movie from Murnau and Herzog's earlier versions? There is a lot of ground to cover with this new iteration of this classic tale. From plot to characterization to Orlok's mustache. As they talk about some of Robert Eggers' next projects, they also make some intriguing casting predictions.Â
'Wolf Man' (2025) Review & Reaction
Jim and Bob wander through the moonlit woods on a SideQuest to review and react to 'Wolf Man'. Will this latest Universal Monsters installment have teeth or will it turn out to be Wolf Meh? Find out as they discuss the film in detail and go into spoilers with their reactions later in the episode.
Theater UnderSTUDY - Wicked Movie Review
To celebrate the release of the Wicked Sing-Along now in theaters, Nikki and Gabby dive broomstick-first into a spellbinding review of the Wicked movie! From the enchanting performances to those unforgettable songs, we're unpacking all the magic (and the mischief) that makes this adaptation worth singing about.
Grab your popcorn and your best Elphaba impressionâitâs time to celebrate the show thatâs been âPopularâ for decades! đśđ§ââď¸
'Superman' (2025) Trailer Reaction
Join Mark, Jim and Bob as they discuss the much anticipated teaser trailer for the upcoming 'Superman' movie in 2025. They also deep dive into some of the other aspects in Superman history, from comics to the past films.Â
The Stack of Shame - How To Reel In Your Physical Media Collection
Mark, Jim, and Bob talk about preventing "The Stack of Shame" from becoming your expanding physical media collection. What do you do when your collection of new releases and pickups begins to accumulate to the point where you feel you might never get around to watching them all? Well, the guys give some practical advice on how to slow the rise of the dreaded "Stack of Shame."Â
'Thanksgiving' (2023) Spoiler Review & Reaction
Join Bob and Jim as they embark on a SideQuest to explore the 2023 Eli Roth horror film 'Thanksgiving'. They express their opinions and examine its standing within the horror genre. This review contains spoilers.
What 'Star Wars: Episode IV' Means To Us
At last, we did it! We're going back in time to 1977 and remembering 'Star Wars: Episode IV.' One of the major films of our childhoods, if not the biggest. Learn what it meant to each of us and how much of an influence this movie had on our early movie experiences. Many of the peripheral aspects of the original Star Wars phenomena are also explored. Everything from toys to concept art to amusing knockoff products.
Making A Monster: The Classic Universal Monsters Episode
This is where it all began! Jim, Mark and Bob celebrate the beginnings of the Universal Monster legacy. Which monsters will they consider for the 'Rushmore of Monsters' monument? They also take some deep dives into each of the original monster actors, creators and special effects artists.
'Salem's Lot' (2024) Review & Reaction
Mark, Jim, and Bob recently viewed the new adaptation of 'Salem's Lot' and are eager to share their thoughts. What new elements were introduced to vampire lore, and which aspects should have been left out? Kick off the spooky season with the guys and don't forget to close your doors, lock your windows and turn out the lights!
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'Borderlands' Review: Is It Really That Bad?
Mark and Stefan team up in this Side-Quest episode to examine the highly criticized film âBorderlandsâ. Is it truly as terrible as it's made out to be? Are we venturing into âHeavenâs Gateâ territory? The duo holds a deep appreciation for the game, so they approached the film with optimism. However, it seems they may have had to do some major mental gymnastics.
#thefandomoutpost #podcast #borderlands #borderlandsmovie #review #scifimovies #superheroes #boxofficebombÂ
'Salem's Lot' (2024) Trailer Reaction
Mark, Bob, and Jim take a look at the trailer for the upcoming 'Salem's Lot' movie set to premiere on Max on October 3, 2024. They share their thoughts and discuss the history of the novel as well as previous film adaptations of this timeless story.
'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' Review & Spoiler Discussion
Jim and Bob kick off the Halloween season by reviewing 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,' featuring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Jenna Ortega. In this discussion filled with spoilers, they share their thoughts and reactions to this highly anticipated sequel. Will there be a third installment in the franchise? How does it measure up against the original cult classic?Â
'Alien: Romulus' Spoiler Review & Franchise Discussion
Don't lose hope, 'Alien' enthusiasts! Jim, Mark, and Bob are here to help you regain your perspective. Are there too many callbacks, and if so, does that detract from this installment in the series? The guys also discuss the 'Alien' franchise and how this film integrates into its established lore.
'Deadpool & Wolverine' Spoiler Discussion & Review wsg/Stefan
Jim, Mark, and Bob chat about everything related to "Deadpool & Wolverine" alongside Stefan. Has Marvel successfully regained its edge, and how might Robert Downey Jr.'s upcoming involvement in the next phase impact the landscape?
#thefandomoutpost #deadpoolandwolverinemovie #deadpool #wolverine #marvel #marvelstudios #superhero #superheroes #moviereview
'Longlegs' Spoiler Review & Discussion
Jim and Bob take a deep dive into this summer's horror sensation 'Longlegs', starring Nicholas Cage and Maika Monroe. This spoiler review will shed light on some of the interesting aspects of the film and why many are considering it a modern horror classic. Is it worth all the hype? So sit back, play some music backwards and enjoy!
BRAINS! The Return of the Living Dead Retrospective
More Brains! In this episode Mark, Jim & Bob adventure into the 80's classic, "The Return of the Living Deadâ. Join them for a fun and nostalgic journey filled with iconic movie quotes, blood-curdling zombie attacks, and killer punk rock tunes. Let's dive deep into this cult favorite together and reminisce about the spine-tingling moments that make this horror-comedy a timeless gem.Â
Crisis At The Cinema?
Why are people not going to the movies this summer? Join us as we delve into the reasons behind the slow box office and explore the future of movie-going. You won't want to miss out. Grab your popcorn and tune in!