The Popcorn Hour with Matt and James
The Popcorn Hour with Matt and James is your go-to podcast for honest, entertaining, and insightful movie reviews. Each week, we dive into the latest releases and classic favorites, breaking down the stories, performances, and cinematic details that make films memorable (or forgettable). Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard cinephile, join us for thoughtful discussions, a bit of humor, and plenty of popcorn-worthy opinions.
(Re-Release) | Christopher Nolan’s Batman Full Trilogy Review
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James revisit one of the most influential superhero sagas ever put to screen — Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy. Nearly two decades after it began, these films still define what a modern comic book movie can be. We start with Batman Begins (2005), exploring how Nolan rebuilt Batman from the ground up with a gritty origin story, grounded world-building, and Christian Bale’s layered take on Bruce Wayne. Then we dive into The Dark Knight (2008) — the film that redefined the genre with Heath Ledger’s legendary performanc...
Movie News | Remembering Eric Dane, Damson Idris, Superman: Man of Tomorrow & God of War TV Show
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James cover a wide range of movie and television news, beginning with the passing of Eric Dane and reflecting on his career and impact across film and television. From there, the conversation shifts to Damson Idris and the latest developments surrounding his upcoming projects. They also discuss Superman: Man of Tomorrow and what the newest updates could mean for the direction of the character moving forward. Wrapping things up, the episode dives into the highly anticipated God of War television series, exploring the challenges...
Criterion of the Month | Being John Malkovich Who Are You Really?
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This month on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into Being John Malkovich as their latest Criterion of the Month selection. The conversation explores the film’s bold concept, its darkly comedic tone, and the way it blends surrealism with deeply human questions about identity, control, and desire. Matt and James discuss how the film’s performances ground its most absurd ideas, how its screenplay reshaped what offbeat storytelling could look like in mainstream cinema, and why it continues to feel fresh decades later. Along the way, they reflect on the risk...
(Re-Release) | Every Spider-Man Ranked Who Wore It Best?
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a wide-ranging slate of movie and television news. They begin with updates involving Robert Duvall and reflect on his long-standing legacy in Hollywood, discussing what his latest developments could mean for his career. From there, the conversation shifts to Bad Bunny’s expanding presence in film and how musicians continue to carve out space in major studio projects. The episode also dives into the ongoing development of God of War and the challenges of adapting such a beloved gaming franchise for th...
Movie News | Robert Duvall, Bad Bunny, God of War & John Cena
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a wide-ranging slate of movie and television news. They begin with updates involving Robert Duvall and reflect on his long-standing legacy in Hollywood, discussing what his latest developments could mean for his career. From there, the conversation shifts to Bad Bunny’s expanding presence in film and how musicians continue to carve out space in major studio projects. The episode also dives into the ongoing development of God of War and the challenges of adapting such a beloved gaming franchise for th...
All Batman Media Ranked | Films, Shows, and Games
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James take on the monumental task of ranking and discussing all Batman media, from the earliest films and TV shows to the latest video games and animated series. The conversation examines how each iteration of the Dark Knight interprets the character, how storytelling, tone, and performance shape the experience, and what makes some versions timeless while others fail to land. Along the way, they debate fan favorites, underrated gems, and controversial choices, reflecting on how Batman has evolved across decades and why he remains...
Movie News | Daredevil Season 2, New Deadpool, Highlander & I Am Rocky
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a packed slate of franchise news across both film and television. The conversation begins with updates on Daredevil Season 2 and what the next chapter could mean for the character’s darker tone and long-term direction. From there, they shift to developments surrounding a new Deadpool movie, discussing how the character continues to evolve and what audiences might expect from another entry. The episode also covers the long-anticipated Highlander film and what challenges come with reviving such a cult property for a mo...
Best & Worst Movies 2 | Back for Another Round
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James return for a second round of best and worst movies, revisiting the highs that surprised them and the lows that completely missed the mark. The conversation looks at what separates a movie that works from one that falls apart, digging into storytelling choices, performances, direction, and expectations going in. Along the way, they compare how certain films aged after first viewing, which opinions changed over time, and why some movies fail in ways that are just as interesting as their successes. It’s a...
Superman Actors Ranked | Legacy, Performance, and the Cape
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James take on the challenge of ranking every actor to portray Superman on screen, looking beyond nostalgia to examine what each performance brought to the character. The conversation breaks down how different eras shaped each interpretation, from classical heroism to more conflicted and modern takes on the Man of Steel. Matt and James debate what truly defines a great Superman, weighing physical presence, emotional depth, chemistry with supporting characters, and how well each actor captured the balance between Clark Kent and Superman. Along the...
28 Years Later: Bone Temple | Returning to the Apocalypse
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dig into 28 Years Later: Bone Temple, the latest chapter in the terrifying post-apocalyptic world. They break down how the film handles survival, faith, and the human cost of living in a broken world, while exploring whether this sequel successfully builds on the legacy of its predecessors. Along the way, they discuss the film’s most haunting moments, its approach to tension and atmosphere, and what it says about the endurance of fear, hope, and morality after society has fallen apart.
Movie News | He-Man Goes Live-Action, Lord Farquaad Movie, Avatar updates & Avengers: Doomsday
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into a wide range of movie news, from surprising announcements to major franchise updates. The conversation starts with the latest developments on the live-action He-Man movie and what the project could mean for adapting classic animated properties. From there, they react to the unexpected news surrounding a Lord Farquaad movie and what that says about the current state of spin-offs and nostalgia-driven filmmaking. The episode also covers updates on the Avatar franchise, discussing where the series is headed next and how audience...
Criterion of the Month | RoboCop — More Than an Action Movie?
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This month on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James spotlight RoboCop as their Criterion of the Month, diving into why this 1987 sci-fi action classic continues to resonate decades later. They explore the film’s sharp satire of corporate culture, media manipulation, and the blurred lines between humanity and technology, while also discussing how its brutal action and bold visual style support those themes. The conversation touches on RoboCop’s place in 80s cinema, its impact on the sci-fi genre, and how the film’s darker social commentary remains relevant today. Along the way, M...
Movie News | Avengers Doomsday, Sebastian Stan TwoFace, Stranger Things Spinoff, Death of Robin Hood
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a jam-packed slate of movie and TV news. They start with updates on Avengers: Doomsday, discussing what’s been revealed about the story, the stakes, and the heroes involved. The conversation then shifts to Sebastian Stan’s upcoming projects and what his career trajectory tells us about the current state of Hollywood. From there, they cover the latest on Two-Face and DC’s plans for the character, dive into the new Stranger Things spinoff and what it could add to the univer...
Every Spider-Man Ranked | Who Wore It Best?
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James take on the impossible task of ranking every live-action Spider-Man movie, from the early days of Sam Raimi’s trilogy to the MCU era and beyond. The conversation breaks down what works and what doesn’t in each entry, looking at performances, direction, villains, action, and how each film understands the character at its core. Along the way, they debate nostalgia versus execution, how different eras of superhero filmmaking shaped these movies, and which version of Spider-Man best captures what makes the character endure. By t...
Movie News | Wolverine Returns? 28 Years Later Part II & Lanterns TV Show
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down some of the biggest movie and TV news currently shaping the industry. The conversation starts with Hugh Jackman officially returning as Wolverine and what that decision means for the character’s legacy, the future of the X-Men, and the broader state of superhero franchises. From there, they discuss 28 Years Later Part II, focusing on Cillian Murphy’s continued involvement and how the sequel is positioning itself in relation to the original film’s impact. The episode also dives into DC’s upcoming Lanterns...
Looking Back Before Moving On | Year in Review
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As the year comes to a close, we step away from the weekly release cycle to reflect on what actually stayed with us. This episode isn’t about quick rankings or surface-level reactions, but about the films, performances, and moments that continued to resonate long after the credits rolled. We look back at the year as a whole, discussing how our expectations shifted, which movies surprised us, and what this stretch of cinema revealed about where the medium is headed. It’s a moment of reflection before moving forward, taking stock of what matt...
(Re-Release) | Fan Casting the DCU
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Everyone’s got a dream DCU lineup… but we didn’t go the obvious route. Instead, we asked: who would make the DC Universe actually interesting? In this episode of The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into bold, unconventional, and sometimes downright surprising fan casts for Batman, Wonder Woman, and beyond. From wild card actors to choices that might just work if given the chance, we’re breaking away from the cookie-cutter superhero mold and reimagining the Justice League in a way you’ve never heard before.
Rob Reiner | A Career Built on Timeless Movies
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James take a deep dive into the remarkable career of Rob Reiner, one of Hollywood’s most versatile and influential directors. From iconic comedies and unforgettable romances to gripping dramas and thrillers, Reiner’s filmography helped define entire genres across multiple decades. The conversation explores his incredible run of hits, how his storytelling style evolved over time, and why so many of his films continue to resonate with audiences today. Along the way, Matt and James reflect on Reiner’s cultural impact, his collaborations with legend...
Is This Really a Christmas Movie? | Holiday Film Debate
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James tackle one of the most important holiday debates of all time: what actually makes a movie a Christmas movie? Is it the setting, the themes, the vibes, or just when you feel like watching it? From obvious holiday classics to the most controversial picks, the conversation turns into a full-on debate as they argue which movies deserve to be welcomed into the Christmas canon and which ones are just winter-adjacent imposters. It’s festive, chaotic, and guaranteed to spark arguments of yo...
The Popcorn Hour Christmas Special | Our Top Holiday Films
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James get into the holiday spirit by sharing their favorite Christmas movies. From heartwarming classics to laugh-out-loud comedies to unconventional holiday staples, they break down the films that make their seasonal watchlists every year. The conversation drifts through nostalgia, family traditions, iconic scenes, and what really makes a movie feel like Christmas — whether it’s snow, sentimentality, or just perfectly timed chaos. It’s a cozy, fun-filled episode perfect for getting into the holiday mood and maybe discovering a new favorite to add to your own fe...
Movie News | Jumanji 3, Daredevil, Avengers: Doomsday & Superman
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into another packed round of movie and TV headlines. They kick things off with updates on Jumanji 3 and what the next jungle adventure could bring to the franchise. Then they shift to Marvel with fresh buzz surrounding Daredevil and the massive upcoming crossover Avengers: Doomsday, discussing how both projects could shape the MCU’s next era. Finally, they jump over to DC to talk about Superman: Man of Tomorrow and what this new take means for the future of the Man of Steel on...
The Running Man (2025) | Did This Remake Outrun the Original?
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into The Running Man (2025), the newest reimagining of the classic dystopian action story. They break down how the film updates the original premise for a modern audience, what works about its new tone and worldbuilding, and how the performances stack up against the iconic 1987 version. From the action sequences to the social commentary, the guys explore whether this remake brings enough fresh energy to justify its return or if it struggles to outrun the legacy of the original. Whether you love remakes, dystopian...
Movie News| Gremlins 3, Coogler’s Mystery Film, Wicked & Clayface
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a burst of exciting movie news, starting with the surprising momentum behind Gremlins 3 and what a modern return of the mischievous creatures could look like. They dig into the early details surrounding Ryan Coogler’s next film and why audiences should already be paying attention. The conversation then shifts to the massive production behind Wicked and how the long-awaited adaptation is shaping up. Finally, they explore new developments around DC’s Clayface, discussing the character’s potential and what kind of story...
Frankenstein (2025) | Monster Masterpiece or Missed Chance?
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into the newest adaptation of Frankenstein, exploring how this version reimagines Mary Shelley’s iconic tale for a modern audience. They break down the film’s tone, performances, visual style, and the themes that make this story endlessly adaptable — from the fear of creation to the tragedy of being misunderstood. The conversation touches on what this new take gets right, where it stumbles, and how it compares to the long history of Frankenstein films that came before it. Whether you’re a fan of class...
Movie News | Avengers: Doomsday, Jurassic Rebirth 2, The Mummy 4 & MJ Biopic
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a jam-packed slate of movie news from every corner of Hollywood. They start with the growing buzz around Avengers: Doomsday, looking at how Marvel is setting up its next massive event and what the new team lineup might look like. Then they jump to the dinosaur-filled chaos of Jurassic World: Rebirth and the surprising news that a sequel is already moving forward. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn with updates on The Mummy 4, raising the question of whether it’s finally ti...
Criterion of the Month | Michael Mann’s Thief (1981)
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For this month’s Criterion of the Month, Matt and James dive into Michael Mann’s electrifying debut feature, Thief (1981). Starring James Caan as a professional safecracker trying to pull off one last job, the film blends gritty realism with slick visual precision, creating a blueprint for the modern crime thriller. The conversation explores Mann’s meticulous attention to detail, Caan’s powerhouse performance, and how the film’s themes of professionalism, control, and self-destruction still resonate more than forty years later. They also dig into Thief’s stunning visuals, Tangerine Dream’s pulsing synt...
Movie News | DC's Lanterns, Avengers: Doomsday, Cliff Booth & Scream 7
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, James break down another packed slate of movie and TV headlines. They kick things off with the long-awaited updates on DC’s Lanterns TV show, exploring how it might set the tone for James Gunn’s new DC Universe. Then they jump into Marvel territory with Avengers: Doomsday, digging into what this massive crossover could mean for the next phase of the MCU. The conversation shifts gears to the unexpected — The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a spin-off from Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and a br...
The Slasher Tournament | Freddy, Jason, Ghostface & More
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James host the ultimate horror showdown — a 16-slasher tournament to crown the deadliest killer in movie history. From Freddy Krueger’s dream-stalking mind games to Ghostface’s meta mayhem, from Michael Myers’ silent brutality to Chucky’s twisted humor, no villain is safe and no fan favorite is guaranteed survival. The guys debate kills, charisma, creativity, and pure terror as they whittle down the bracket round by round until one slasher reigns supreme. It’s bloody, it’s ridiculous, and it’s everything you love about horro...
Movie News | Miami Vice Remake, Johnny Depp’s Scrooge, Brave & Bold Batman, Stranger Things
https://paa.ge/popcornhour This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into a wild mix of movie and TV news that’s guaranteed to keep you entertained. They kick things off with the Miami Vice remake, dissecting what the classic ’80s cop drama could look like for modern audiences. Then it’s onto Johnny Depp reprising Scrooge — the guys weigh in on whether this new take can live up to the holiday classic or is just another Hollywood cash grab. Next up is the Brave & Bold Batman movie, sparking a conversation about animated superhero nostalgia, fan expectat...
Remember, Remember | Reviewing V for Vendetta
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James unmask one of the most iconic dystopian thrillers of the 2000s — V for Vendetta. Nearly two decades after its release, the film’s mix of political rebellion, emotional depth, and striking visuals still feels as bold and relevant as ever. The conversation dives into the movie’s layered themes of control, revolution, and identity, along with Hugo Weaving’s unforgettable performance behind the mask and Natalie Portman’s transformation at the story’s core. Matt and James reflect on how the film’s message has ev...
Movie News | Tron ending, Invincible S4, The Social Network 2 & The Jetsons
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into a wild mix of movie and TV news that’s got a little something for everyone. They start with Tron: Ares, breaking down new details about the long-awaited sequel and what it means for the future of Disney’s sci-fi world. Then it’s onto Invincible Season 4, where the conversation turns to what fans can expect next from one of the most ambitious animated superhero series on TV. The guys also react to news about a possible Social Network 2 — questioning whether the stor...
Criterion of the Month | Night of the Living Dead (1968)
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For this month’s Criterion of the Month, Matt and James dig into George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead — the low-budget horror film that changed cinema forever. Released in 1968, Romero’s debut not only created the modern zombie genre but also captured the anxieties of its era, mixing social commentary with raw, unsettling terror. The discussion explores how the film’s stripped-down style, haunting black-and-white imagery, and groundbreaking ending helped it earn a place among the most important independent films ever made. Matt and James reflect on its legacy, its influence...
Movie News | Ocean’s Prequel, Johnny Knoxville’s Fear Factor, Daredevil Leaks & Tron: Ares
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into another wave of movie and TV headlines. They start with news from the Ocean’s universe, breaking down what’s known so far about the upcoming prequel or sequel and how it might connect to the classic heist films. Then they react to Johnny Knoxville stepping in to host a revival of Fear Factor, debating whether the show’s wild stunts and pranks can work in today’s reality TV landscape. The conversation turns to the latest leaks from Daredevil: Born Again Se...
The Smashing Machine | Worth the Watch?
This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into The Smashing Machine, the intense documentary that chronicles MMA fighter Mark Kerr’s rise, fall, and everything in between. They break down the most unforgettable moments, from his championship victories to the personal struggles that defined his journey, and discuss why this documentary continues to resonate with fans of combat sports and real-life stories. With sharp insights and plenty of passionate commentary, the guys explore what makes The Smashing Machine a gripping watch from start to finish.
Movie News | The Smashing Machine, Monster S3, Simpsons Movie, Tron: Ares & Kill Bill Re-Release
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James dive into another packed week of movie and TV news. They break down the latest on The Smashing Machine and why it’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about upcoming releases. Then they turn to Monster: Season 3, exploring where the hit anthology series could go next and what makes it such a fascinating piece of true-crime storytelling. The conversation shifts to news of a possible new Simpsons Movie and what that might mean for the long-running series, before jumping into updates on Tron: Ar...
Halloween Edition | Our Top 3 Horror Favorites
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James celebrate spooky season by sharing their top three horror movies of all time. From chilling classics to modern nightmares, the guys break down what makes each pick stand out — the scares that stuck, the scenes that scarred, and the moments that still get under their skin. It’s a mix of deep appreciation, personal stories, and a few laughs along the way as they dive into what makes the horror genre so endlessly rewatchable. Whether you’re looking for a Halloween watchlist or just love t...
(Re-Release)Criterion | The Grand Budapest Hotel
For this Criterion, Matt and James check back into Wes Anderson’s meticulously crafted world with the Criterion re-release of The Grand Budapest Hotel. A decade after its original debut, the film remains one of Anderson’s most celebrated works, blending comedy, melancholy, and dazzling visual design into a story about memory, friendship, and a world on the verge of change. The conversation dives into the performances that give the film its heart, the stylistic flourishes that make it uniquely Anderson, and why the Criterion treatment feels like a perfect match for this modern classic. Looking at both its lega...
Reviewing HIM (2025) | What Works and What Doesn’t
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In this episode of The Popcorn Hour, we dive deep into HIM (2025), exploring the thrills, chills, and heart-pounding moments that make this film unforgettable. From the standout performances to the gripping storyline and stunning visuals, we break down everything you need to know — without giving away too many spoilers. Whether you’re a horror fan or just curious about the latest must-watch, this episode has all the insights, reactions, and commentary you’ve been waiting for.
Movie News | DiCaprio’s Scorsese Role, Heat 2, Weapons Prequel, Tom Holland Update
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This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James cover a busy slate of movie news. Leonardo DiCaprio is teaming up once again with Martin Scorsese for a brand-new project, and he’s also set to star in the highly anticipated Heat 2. Meanwhile, news has broken that Trey Edward Shults’ thriller Weapons will be getting a prequel, adding another layer to one of the more intriguing upcoming films. On a less positive note, Tom Holland has reportedly suffered an injury, raising questions about how it may affect his next projects. And finally, the cont...
Criterion of the Month | Guillermo del Toro’s Cronos (1993)
For this month’s Criterion of the Month, Matt and James sink their teeth into Guillermo del Toro’s haunting debut feature, Cronos (1993). A strange, poetic twist on vampirism, the film blends horror, fantasy, and gothic romance in a way only del Toro could. The conversation explores the movie’s eerie atmosphere, its meditations on immortality, and the seeds of del Toro’s signature style that would later flourish in films like Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water. Beyond its genre elements, we look at why Cronos has earned its place in the Criterion Collection, how it holds up m...