Movie Joust!

40 Episodes
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By: Jesse Nussman, Jason Evans, Josh Sewell

Movie Joust! is a movie podcast where critics with clashing tastes challenge hype, legacy, and consensus — forcing films to earn their reputation. Each week, Atlanta film critics debate new releases, awards contenders, and cultural flashpoints in cinema, putting “prestige,” popularity, and critical buzz under pressure. From legacy filmmakers to divisive adaptations, Movie Joust! isn’t about polite agreement — it’s about sharp takes, real disagreement, and figuring out who movies are actually for. If you’re tired of plot recaps and safe opinions, welcome to the fight.

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Godzilla Minus Zero brings King of Monsters back to big screen | Plus, Wild Horse Nine and The Only Living Pickpocket in New York
Godzilla Minus Zero brings King of Monsters back to big screen | Plus, Wild Horse Nine and The Only Living Pickpocket in New York episode artwork
Today at 1:37 AM

Godzilla Minus Zero brings total devastation back to the big screen! In this action-packed episode of Movie Joust, we break down Takashi Yamazaki’s follow-up to his Oscar-winning kaiju movie, exploring its jaw-dropping set-pieces and ambitious narrative.

Then, we dive into the new releases:

Wild Horse Nine: Martin McDonagh’s sharp black-comedy spy thriller set in 1973, starring John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell as veteran CIA officers on Easter Island.

The Only Living Pickpocket in New York: Noah Segan’s gritty NYC crime drama starring John Turturro as an aging Bronx pickpocket who accidentally lifts...


'Clayface' Brings Horror to DC Universe | Plus, 'Wicker,' and 'A Talent for Murder'
'Clayface' Brings Horror to DC Universe | Plus, 'Wicker,' and 'A Talent for Murder' episode artwork
10/24/2026

In this episode of Movie Joust!, we dive into DC’s latest release, Clayface, exploring how director James Watkins transforms the iconic Gotham villain's origin story into a dark body-horror thriller. Plus, we review the quirky romantic fantasy Wicker and Anton Corbijn's literary mystery-thriller A Talent for Murder starring Helen Mirren.


'You Can See Everything' is a Masterpiece | Plus, 'Musk' and 'Whalefall'
'You Can See Everything' is a Masterpiece | Plus, 'Musk' and 'Whalefall' episode artwork
10/18/2026

Is Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim’s A24 documentary 'You Can See Everything' an instant non-fiction masterpiece? On this episode of Movie Joust!, we dive deep into the mind-bending Elizabeth Holmes doc that has everyone talking.

Plus, we break down Alex Gibney's epic Elong Musk documentary, 'Musk', and Brian Duffield’s claustrophobic survival thriller 'Whalefall'! Which of these heavy hitters takes top honors, and which one gets thrown to the wolves?


'The Social Reckoning' Takes on Facebook | Plus, 'Tenzing' & 'Your Mother, Your Mother, Your Mother'
'The Social Reckoning' Takes on Facebook | Plus, 'Tenzing' & 'Your Mother, Your Mother, Your Mother' episode artwork
10/13/2026

This week, the guys give their thoughts on "The Social Reckoning," Aaron Sorkin's spiritual sequel to the 2010 film "The Social Network."

Then, they play catch-up with Apple's Everest-set biopic "Tenzing," and "Your Mother, Your Mother, Your Mother," a unique new thriller starring Mahershala Ali.


'Digger' Review: Is Tom Cruise's Latest a Misunderstood Masterpiece or Epic Disaster? | Plus, 'Primetime' and 'Verity'
'Digger' Review: Is Tom Cruise's Latest a Misunderstood Masterpiece or Epic Disaster? | Plus, 'Primetime' and 'Verity' episode artwork
10/04/2026

It's a jam-packed episode this week, as Jason, Jesse, and Josh joust over the merits of "Digger," Alejandro González Iñárritu's satirical comedy starring Tom Cruise.

Then, the guys catch up with the Robert Pattinson starring "Primetime," about the series "To Catch a Predator," and Jason gives his reactions to the latest Colleen Hoover adaptation, "Verity".


'Resident Evil' Rocks! | Plus, Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe in 'The Weight'
'Resident Evil' Rocks! | Plus, Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe in 'The Weight' episode artwork
09/20/2026

This week, the guys enthusiastically talk about Zach Cregger's adaptation of the beloved horror game "Resident Evil," then they break down another new release, this time featuring Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe. Hear why this adventure film calls to mind classics such as "Sorcerer" and "Treasure of the Sierra Madre."


September Movie Rundown | Practical Magic 2, Hope, and The Runner
September Movie Rundown | Practical Magic 2, Hope, and The Runner episode artwork
09/14/2026

Jesse and Josh run through multiple movies currently out. First, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock reunite in "Practical Magic 2" then a South Korean monster movie with some real high highs and real low lows, and finally, the Gal Gadot Amazon thriller that is going viral for all the wrong reasons.


'Onslaught' Review & the Return of Mumblecore Favorites
'Onslaught' Review & the Return of Mumblecore Favorites episode artwork
09/05/2026

Remember the Mumblecore movement of the early 2010s? This week, we're discussing new movies from two of the movement's notable filmmakers; Joe Swanberg and Adam Winguard. Plus, a discussion on if horror movies need to be "about something" or if the "elevated horror" trend has thrown off our expectations for genre entertainment.


End of Summer Hangover Movies | It Ends, Dog Stars, & More
End of Summer Hangover Movies | It Ends, Dog Stars, & More episode artwork
08/28/2026

We're at the final days of summer movie season. And that means it's a grab bag of choices, from the Gen-Z indie-horror flick "It Ends," to the post-apocalyptic world of "The Dog Stars," and even the Looney Tunes flick "Coyote vs. Acme."


'Tony' & 'The Rivals of Amziah King' | Two Late-Summer Character Dramas
'Tony' & 'The Rivals of Amziah King' | Two Late-Summer Character Dramas episode artwork
08/22/2026

This week we discuss A24's Tony, Matt Johnson's kinetic, unvarnished biographical snapshot of a 19-year-old Anthony Bourdain (Dominic Sessa) slinging seafood in 1975 Provincetown. In the other corner stands Andrew Patterson's gritty, Southern-gothic indie thriller The Rivals of Amziah King, starring Matthew McConaughey as a beekeeping, folk-rocking town anchor caught in a high-stakes local honey syndicate war.


'The End of Oak Street' vs. 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma' Review
'The End of Oak Street' vs. 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma' Review episode artwork
08/15/2026

From suburban dinosaur chaos in The End of Oak Street to classic slasher tropes and dark comedy in Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma, the team breaks down script execution, critical buzz, and box office potential. Tune in for our full review, clash of opinions, and final verdicts on whether these new releases earn their place or fall flat.


Dystopian Rom-Com vs. Eli Roth Horror: One Night Only & Ice Cream Man Review
Dystopian Rom-Com vs. Eli Roth Horror: One Night Only & Ice Cream Man Review episode artwork
08/09/2026

On this episode of Movie Joust, we go head-to-head on two of the wildest August 2026 theatrical releases: Will Gluck’s high-concept romantic comedy One Night Only and Eli Roth’s twisted horror slasher Ice Cream Man.


Spider-Man: Brand New Day Review: MCU Saved or Overhyped?
Spider-Man: Brand New Day Review: MCU Saved or Overhyped? episode artwork
08/01/2026

In this episode of Movie Joust, we dive headfirst into Marvel's latest blockbuster, Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)! We break down Tom Holland’s return as Peter Parker, Destin Daniel Cretton’s direction, and the introduction of Sadie Sink's Jean Grey. Tune in for our full spoiler review, character breakdowns, and final verdict!



Fall Movie Box Office Predictions!
Fall Movie Box Office Predictions! episode artwork
07/27/2026

In this episode, three seasoned film critics — Jason Evans, Jesse Nussman, and Josh Sewell — dive into the unpredictable world of September and October releases. You'll discover how Tom Cruise's choice of "Digger" could dominate the box office, why dinosaurs in "End of Oak Street" might surprise everyone, and which indie gem "The Rivals of Amziah King" could steal the critics' hearts despite a modest box office. We break down the scoring systems for audience favorites and critical acclaim, revealing the art and science behind what makes a movie legendary or forgettable.


Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Review | IMAX Masterpiece or Overindulgent Epic
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Review | IMAX Masterpiece or Overindulgent Epic episode artwork
07/16/2026

On this week's episode of Movie Joust!, Atlanta film critics Jason, Jesse, and Josh step into the arena to debate Nolan's massive, $250 million adaptation of Homer's ancient Greek epic. Shot entirely on IMAX 70mm film cameras, this ambitious feature stars Matt Damon as Odysseus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, and Tom Holland as Telemachus, alongside a star-studded ensemble including Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, and Lupita Nyong'o.

We break down everything from Nolan's stunning visual set-pieces—including the nightmarish encounter with Polyphemus the Cyclops and Circe's demented magic—to his modern, non-linear exploration of war-induced PTSD and survivor's guil...


Island Gods, Awkward Dinners, and the Ultimate Jon Hamm Pass
Island Gods, Awkward Dinners, and the Ultimate Jon Hamm Pass episode artwork
07/10/2026

This week on Movie Joust!, we are squaring off against a wildly diverse trio of new releases.

First up, we set sail into controversial waters to review Disney's brand-new live-action reimagining of Moana. Does Thomas Kail’s beat-by-beat remake capture the magic of the reef, or does Dwayne Johnson's return as Maui feel like an unnecessary corporate cash grab?

Then, we transition from the open ocean to the claustrophobic crucible of Olivia Wilde’s dark comedy, The Invite. We break down the cringe, the marital tension, and the extreme sexual FOMO that erupts when Seth Roge...


'Supergirl' thoughts | Plus, is 'Toy Story' the best movie franchise?
'Supergirl' thoughts | Plus, is 'Toy Story' the best movie franchise? episode artwork
06/28/2026

This week, Jason and Josh give their thoughts on 'Supergirl' and whether it signals the end of the superhero movie era. Then, Jesse joins to talk about 'Toy Story 5' and determine if Pixar's flagship series is the most consistently good movie franchise.


Steven Spielberg Movies Ranked | From 'Jaws' to 'Disclosure Day'
Steven Spielberg Movies Ranked | From 'Jaws' to 'Disclosure Day' episode artwork
06/22/2026

With "Disclosure Day" out in theaters, we're ranking all 35 movies directed by Steven Spielberg and placing them into our own tier list.


'Disclosure Day' Review | Thoughts on Steven Spielberg's Alien Picture
'Disclosure Day' Review | Thoughts on Steven Spielberg's Alien Picture episode artwork
06/14/2026

Jesse and Josh both break down Steven Spielberg's new UFO movie starring Emily Blunt, Josh O'Conner, Colin Firth, and Colman Domingo. We break down which Spielberg classics it is closest to, and its uniquely optimistic ideas about life from other worlds.

#DisclosureDay #MovieReview #MoviePodcast





'The Mandalorian & Grogu' Review | 'Obsession' Becomes Horror Phenomenon
'The Mandalorian & Grogu' Review | 'Obsession' Becomes Horror Phenomenon episode artwork
05/25/2026

On this week's episode, we review the latest 'Star Wars' entry and ponder why this franchise feels so stale now. Then, we share our excitement for one of the year's surprise hits, the horror movie "Obsession."


'Star Wars' Movie Rankings
'Star Wars' Movie Rankings episode artwork
05/09/2026

With a new 'Star Wars' movie right around the corner, Jason, Jesse, and Josh are looking back on the previous journeys to a galaxy far, far away.


'The Devil Wears Prada 2' Review | Meryl Streep Returns to Her Most Iconic Role
'The Devil Wears Prada 2' Review | Meryl Streep Returns to Her Most Iconic Role episode artwork
05/01/2026

This week, Josh, Jason, and Jesse strap on their stelletoes to kick off summer movie season with "The Devil Wears Prada 2." Does Meryl Streep's return to her most iconic role bring the same charm as it did 20 years ago? And would you believe us if we said it's actually about media cololidation?


'Michael' & 'The Christophers' Review
'Michael' & 'The Christophers' Review episode artwork
04/25/2026

This week, Jason, Josh, and Jesse are breaking down the new biopic on Michael Jackson, examining whether this movie has anything interesting to say about the King of Pop or is just interested in playing the hits. Then, Josh and Jason give their thoughts on Steven Soderbergh's new movie "The Christophers."


The Wildest New Movie Plots You Won't Believe Are True
The Wildest New Movie Plots You Won't Believe Are True episode artwork
04/12/2026

In this episode of the Movie Joust, we reveal the craziest movie plots you’ve never heard of, some so bizarre that you'll swear they’re just jokes.


'The Drama' Review | The Year's Cringiest Romance
'The Drama' Review | The Year's Cringiest Romance episode artwork
04/06/2026

This week on Movie Joust! Jason, Jesse, and Josh break down one of the year's most secretive titles; "The Drama," starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. They'll give their spoiler-free thoughts, followed by thoughts on the many spoilers.


Oscars 2026 | Here were our favorite moments
Oscars 2026 | Here were our favorite moments episode artwork
03/21/2026

Join Jason Evans, Jesse Nussman, and Josh Sewell as they recap the 2026 Oscars. Whether you're a cinephile or industry insider, this episode offers sharp insights and lively banter on the year's biggest cinematic moments.


'Project Hail Mary' | Is this the next sci-fi classic?
'Project Hail Mary' | Is this the next sci-fi classic? episode artwork
03/14/2026

Join us as we explore the latest sci-fi film Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling, and delve into bold predictions for the upcoming Oscars. We analyze the film's strengths, weaknesses, and its potential to rival The Martian, along with wild Oscar predictions and controversies.


"Wuthering Heights" | Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die | Crime 101
"Wuthering Heights" | Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die | Crime 101 episode artwork
02/16/2026

In this episode, we dive into the mixed reviews of three recent films: Emerald Fennell’s "Wuthering Heights", the LA-set thriller Crime 101, and the AI-themed Good Luck Have Fun, Don’t Die.


We explore whether these films are worth your time or better left for streaming, providing unfiltered insights and fiery opinions to guide your movie choices.


'Send Help' & the Best Sam Raimi Movies
'Send Help' & the Best Sam Raimi Movies episode artwork
02/05/2026

In this high-energy, no-holds-barred episode of Movie Joust!, the hosts dive into the buzzy new horror-comedy “Send Help” starring Rachel McAdams and throw down over the best Sam Raimi movies of all time. From cult classics like The Evil Dead and Army of Darkness to blockbuster hits like Spider-Man 2 and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, nothing is safe from debate.


Oscar Nominations 2026 | Here's who should win!
Oscar Nominations 2026 | Here's who should win! episode artwork
01/24/2026

Atlanta film critics Jason Evans, Josh Sewell, and Jesse Nussman break down the 2026 Oscar nominations and who they think should win in each category.


28 Years Later: The Bone Temple & 2026 Movie Predictions
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple & 2026 Movie Predictions episode artwork
01/18/2026

In this episode of Movie Jouse, hosts Jesse and Josh dive into "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple." They discuss the film's direction by Nia DaCosta, the evolution of its narrative, and the performances of its cast, including Ralph Fiennes and Jack O'Connell. Then, stick around for their predictions on what to expect for 2026 movies!


Why 'Marty Supreme' is the Next Sports Movie Classic
Why 'Marty Supreme' is the Next Sports Movie Classic episode artwork
01/08/2026

Join us on the Movie Jobs Podcast as we dive into the whirlwind world of "Marty Supreme," a film that blends sports, comedy, and drama in the 1950s table tennis scene. Discover how Timothée Chalamet's charismatic portrayal of Marty, a young man chasing his dreams amidst chaos, captivates audiences. With insights from film critics Jason Evans, Jesse Nussman, and Josh Sewell, explore the film's unique take on ambition, identity, and the Jewish American experience. Don't miss this engaging discussion on a movie that's both exhilarating and thought-provoking.


Does Avatar 3 Deserve the Hype — or Has James Cameron Lost the Plot?
Does Avatar 3 Deserve the Hype — or Has James Cameron Lost the Plot? episode artwork
12/19/2025

On this episode of Movie Joust!, we take on Avatar : Fire and Ash— James Cameron’s latest swing at epic blockbuster filmmaking — and ask the uncomfortable question: does this franchise still earn the awe it demands, or is the spectacle finally outpacing the substance?

We break down our sharply divided reactions, from the film’s overwhelming visual ambition to its emotional sincerity, narrative sprawl, and cultural relevance. Is Cameron still pushing the medium forward, or are audiences being asked to mistake scale for depth?

As always, we debate the hype, challenge the consensus, and figure out who...


Is Hamnet Profound or Manipulative — and Why Ella McCay Left Us Divided
Is Hamnet Profound or Manipulative — and Why Ella McCay Left Us Divided episode artwork
12/12/2025

This week on Movie Joust!, we dive into two very different new releases: Hamnet, the emotionally devastating literary adaptation generating serious awards buzz, and Ella McCay, James L. Brooks’ long-awaited return that left us unexpectedly divided.

We break down what Hamnet gets right — and where it risks tipping into emotional overkill — before debating whether Ella McCay is a thoughtful political comedy-drama or a tonal misfire. From performances to themes to audience expectations, this episode tackles why these films provoke such strong reactions — and who they’re really for.


Best Movies of 2025 | Top Picks from Atlanta Film Critics
Best Movies of 2025 | Top Picks from Atlanta Film Critics episode artwork
12/04/2025

On this week’s Movie Joust!, Jesse, Jason, and Josh break down their favorite films of the year, spar over performances, celebrate unforgettable moments, and argue about the most underrated gems you might’ve missed. Whether it’s awards buzz, surprise hits, or films you need to catch before 2026, we’ve got you covered.

Tune in for sharp takes, passionate disagreements, and recommendations that might just reshape your watchlist.


“Wicked: For Good — Broadway Magic or Misfire? + Is Wake Up Dead Man a Fresh Knives Out Twist?”
“Wicked: For Good — Broadway Magic or Misfire? + Is Wake Up Dead Man a Fresh Knives Out Twist?” episode artwork
11/24/2025

This week on Movie Joust!, we take on two of the biggest films of the holiday season: Wicked: For Good — does this Broadway mega-adaptation live up to the hype or fall flat on its sprawling ambitions? — and Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, the latest Benoit Blanc case that blends murder mystery with unexpected thematic depth.

Join Atlanta film critics Jesse, Jason, and Josh as they break down what worked, what didn’t, and why these very different films are generating such strong reactions — from dazzling musical spectacle to clever twists and tonal surprises. Whether you’re t...


'The Running Man' & 'Jay Kelly'
'The Running Man' & 'Jay Kelly' episode artwork
11/17/2025

Join us on Movie Joust as we dive into the cinematic world with hosts Jesse Nussman, Jason Evans, and Josh Sewell. This episode explores the intriguing dynamics of Edgar Wright's adaptation of "The Running Man," starring Glenn Powell. We discuss the film's faithfulness to Stephen King's original Bachman book, its satirical take on dystopian America, and the casting choices that shape its narrative.


Then, we delve into Noah Baumbach's latest film, "Jay Kelly," starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler. We explore the film's introspective narrative, examining themes of fame, identity, and the sacrifices made...


'Predator: Badlands' & 'Die My Love'
'Predator: Badlands' & 'Die My Love' episode artwork
11/09/2025

"In this episode, we explore the thrilling dynamics of 'Predator: Badlands' and the intense drama of 'Die My Love.' Join us as we delve into the unique storytelling and performances that define these films. We also discuss 'Nuremberg,' a historical drama that captivates with its portrayal of the post-war trials. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of these diverse cinematic experiences. #PredatorBadlands #DieMyLove #Nuremberg"



'Bugonia' | Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos reunite for alien comedy
'Bugonia' | Emma Stone and Yorgos Lanthimos reunite for alien comedy episode artwork
11/02/2025

Join us as we delve into the intriguing world of "Bugonia," the latest film by Yorgos Lanthimos. We explore Emma Stone's captivating performance as a CEO with a cosmic secret and discuss the film's unique blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary. Discover how Lanthimos' storytelling challenges perceptions and leaves audiences questioning reality. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the film's themes, performances, and its place in modern cinema. #Bugonia #EmmaStone #YorgosLanthimos



Exploring the Depths of Springsteen: A Cinematic Journey with 'Deliver Me From Nowhere'
Exploring the Depths of Springsteen: A Cinematic Journey with 'Deliver Me From Nowhere' episode artwork
10/27/2025

Join us as we dive into the cinematic portrayal of Bruce Springsteen's transformative journey in "Deliver Me From Nowhere," starring Jeremy Allen White. This episode unpacks the film's exploration of Springsteen's artistic evolution, the impact of his Nebraska album, and the performances that bring this story to life. We discuss the film's narrative choices, its appeal to die-hard fans, and the broader implications of music biopics in today's cinema landscape. Tune in for an engaging discussion with film critics Jesse Nussman, Josh Sewell, and Jason Evans as they share their insights and critiques. #Springsteen #FilmCritics #JeremyAllenWhite