Movie Wars
Movie Wars

Movie Wars

2-Vices Media

Overview
Episodes

Details

A panel of stand-up comedians blends humor with deep film analysis, using their unique ‘War Card’ system to grade movies across key categories. Each episode delivers thoughtful insights and spirited debate, offering a fresh, comedic take on film critique. New episode every Tuesday!

Recent Episodes

Kill Bill: Vol. 1
MAR 25, 2025
Kill Bill: Vol. 1

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 film. From the outset, the hosts express their excitement and anticipation for the conversation, emphasizing their admiration for the intricate layers of storytelling and visual artistry that Tarantino employs. Matthew Blevins, with his background in film critique, adds depth to the discourse by analyzing the thematic and stylistic nuances present in the film, including its homage to various cinematic genres. The hosts engage in a lively debate regarding the pacing of the film, with opinions varying on whether the length enhances or detracts from the overall experience. Ultimately, the episode captures the essence of a passionate film discussion, blending humor and insightful analysis, making it a delightful listen for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

Takeaways:

  • In this episode, we welcomed the esteemed comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins, who provided valuable insights into the Mad Max series.
  • We explored the intricate nuances of Tarantino's directing style, particularly highlighting how it evolves from his earlier works to Kill Bill.
  • A key discussion centered on the significance of the sound design and soundtrack in enhancing the film's overall atmosphere and emotional impact.
  • Matthew emphasized the importance of genre influences in Kill Bill, showcasing how Tarantino weaves various cinematic styles into a cohesive narrative.
  • The episode delved into the pacing of the film, with contrasting opinions on whether it effectively maintained viewer engagement throughout.
  • We concluded with a reflection on how nostalgia and previous viewing experiences shape our current perceptions of Tarantino's films.

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86 MIN
The Adventures Of Tintin
MAR 18, 2025
The Adventures Of Tintin

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 beloved classic in a modern context. Join us as we navigate the intersection of comedy, animation, and cinematic artistry, offering a thoughtful examination of this multifaceted film.

The podcast episode featuring the renowned Nashville comedian and world yo-yo champion, John Datoy, presents an enthralling exploration of the intersection between humor and the art of yo-yoing. The conversation delves into Datoy's personal history with the yo-yo craze, reflecting on its resurgence in popularity and its cultural significance. He shares anecdotes from his childhood, illustrating how he honed his skills through the rich resources available online, particularly via YouTube. This discussion is punctuated by the camaraderie and light-hearted banter among the hosts, creating an engaging atmosphere that invites listeners to appreciate both the intricacies of yo-yo tricks and the nuances of comedic storytelling. Through Datoy's experiences and reflections, the episode serves as a reminder of the joy and creativity that can emerge from seemingly simple pastimes, while also highlighting the unique cultural connections that bind individuals through shared interests.

Takeaways:

  • In this episode, we delve into the exceptional skills of John Datoy, a world-renowned yo-yo champion, who also brings his comedic talents to the forefront, providing listeners with a unique perspective on both arts.
  • The conversation highlights the resurgence of yo-yoing in contemporary culture, particularly within the Philippines, showcasing its evolution from a childhood fad to a recognized art form.
  • I share my personal experience with animation, revealing my journey from disinterest to appreciation, particularly influenced by watching animated films through the eyes of my children.
  • We explore the intricacies of storytelling and character development in animation, discussing how the depth of characters can significantly impact audience engagement and emotional investment.
  • The episode underscores the importance of innovation in filmmaking, particularly in the realm of motion capture, and how it has transformed the animation landscape, allowing for more nuanced storytelling.
  • Lastly, we examine the cultural implications of animated films, reflecting on how adaptations can resonate differently across various audiences, underscoring the importance of understanding source material.

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85 MIN
The Northman
MAR 11, 2025
The Northman

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 Skarsgård. Ultimately, we advocate for the film's recognition as a modern epic that offers a stark yet compelling glimpse into the Norse mythology and the human condition, urging our audience to appreciate its artistry and depth.

The discussion commences with an introduction to the guest, John Detoy, a notable comedian from Nashville, who has recently returned from touring. The conversation explores various facets of Detoy's career, notably his recent performances and his hosting role at the Nateland show. The episode also delves into the cultural significance of New Orleans, with a light touch on local delicacies such as king cake, and transitions into a more profound examination of the film 'The Northman.' The hosts express their admiration for the film, highlighting its rich storytelling and historical accuracy, which sets it apart from traditional epics like 'Gladiator' and 'Braveheart.' They emphasize that 'The Northman' embodies a personal journey of revenge, devoid of the sensationalism often present in Hollywood epics. As the episode unfolds, they dissect the film's themes and cinematography, lauding its artistic merit and Eggers' meticulous attention to detail, which reflects a commitment to authenticity in storytelling.

Takeaways:

  • The podcast discusses the film 'The Northman' and its artistic interpretation of Norse mythology.
  • Robert Eggers' dedication to historical accuracy in filmmaking is a prominent theme throughout the episode.
  • The dialogue and character development in 'The Northman' are analyzed for their depth and complexity.
  • The hosts express their admiration for the strong performances of the cast, particularly Nicole Kidman and Alexander Skarsgard.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • Spirit Airlines
  • Honest Fox Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

Shoot The Flick Podcast

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80 MIN
Brazil
MAR 4, 2025
Brazil

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 for introspection and dialogue regarding the human condition in an increasingly mechanized society.

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, till the age of 5 and moved back to his native Reservation Taos NM. From 2000-2003 Gabriel was home school in the fine arts in Venice Italy by his mother and his father who attended his Masters in NYU. Gabriel took part in theater in New York, and landed small parts with Nickelodeon, a Nisa commercial, and the Ron Howard film The Missing. Gabriel was A student for the 3 years he attended in Landmark School for his struggles in Dyslexia. Soon after he spent 2 years at the Chicago Academy of The Art's for Music and Media Arts. Graduating from From Vancouver Film School in 2012, along with his acceptance as a Sundance Institute Fellowship Writer. He worked in Nashville TN for 2 years producing Music Videos, for The Foxies, Stereo Specter, and Hannah Aldridge.

Enjoy ads from our friends over at Revisionist Almanac and Greatest Movie of All-Time Podcast.

The discourse surrounding Terry Gilliam's cinematic opus, Brazil, offers a profound exploration of the absurdity and intricacies of modern bureaucratic systems. The film serves as a critical lens through which we can examine the dystopian realities of a society ensnared by its own convoluted regulations and technological advancements. As the protagonists navigate a world rife with inefficiencies, the narrative unveils the most critical takeaways: the perils of complacency within an authoritative structure and the inherent folly of a system that prioritizes conformity over individuality. The podcast encapsulates these themes, reflecting on the film's darkly comedic portrayal of a future that mirrors contemporary anxieties about governmental overreach and the dehumanization that ensues from an over-reliance on technology. Each speaker articulates their personal connection to the film, revealing how its surrealistic yet familiar landscape resonates with their own experiences of navigating modern societal expectations.

Takeaways:

  • The film 'Brazil' serves as a profound critique of bureaucracy, highlighting the absurdity of an overly complex system that stifles individuality and creativity.
  • The cinematography in 'Brazil' effectively creates a surreal atmosphere, immersing the audience in a dystopian world filled with chaotic yet visually stunning imagery.
  • Terry Gilliam's unique storytelling approach blends humor with dark themes, encouraging viewers to reflect on the implications of technological advancements and societal norms.
  • The performances in 'Brazil' are exceptional, with each actor embracing the absurdity of their roles, contributing to the film's overall impact and memorability.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • Terry Gilliam
  • Hunter S. Thompson
  • Johnny Depp
  • Monty Python
  • David Lynch
  • Christopher Nolan
  • Scarlett Johansson
  • Akira
  • Hayao Miyazaki
  • Disney
  • Ghost in the Shell

Mentioned in this episode:

The Greatest Movie Of All-Time Podcast

Thankful for our friends over at The Greatest Movie Of All Time podcast. Brilliant, go check them out.

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97 MIN
Before The Devil Knows You're Dead
FEB 25, 2025
Before The Devil Knows You're Dead

"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, till the age of 5 and moved back to his native Reservation Taos NM. From 2000-2003 Gabriel was home school in the fine arts in Venice Italy by his mother and his father who attended his Masters in NYU. Gabriel took part in theater in New York, and landed small parts with Nickelodeon, a Nisa commercial, and the Ron Howard film The Missing. Gabriel was A student for the 3 years he attended in Landmark School for his struggles in Dyslexia. Soon after he spent 2 years at the Chicago Academy of The Art's for Music and Media Arts. Graduating from From Vancouver Film School in 2012, along with his acceptance as a Sundance Institute Fellowship Writer. He worked in Nashville TN for 2 years producing Music Videos, for The Foxies, Stereo Specter, and Hannah Aldridge.

Enjoy ads from our friends over at Revisionist Almanac and Shoot The Flick.

The episode delves into the intricate dynamics of the characters, whose seemingly simplistic motivations rest beneath the surface of a heist gone awry—a narrative device that Lumet employs to expose the moral decay and emotional turmoil that permeate their lives. We examine how the screenplay, penned by Kelly Masterson, effectively intertwines elements of suspense with deeply personal stakes, reflecting the complexities of betrayal and desperation. As we dissect the film's thematic richness, we also contemplate the broader implications of its portrayal of New York City, challenging the notion of the metropolis as merely a backdrop, while recognizing its role as an active participant in the narrative. Join us as we unravel the layers of this compelling film, revealing insights that resonate with the essence of human frailty and aspiration.

Takeaways:

  • The film 'Before The Devil Knows You're Dead' serves as a profound exploration of familial dysfunction, showcasing the dark undercurrents that can exist within perceived ordinary lives.
  • Ethan Hawke and Philip Seymour Hoffman's performances are lauded for their depth, highlighting the nuanced portrayal of complex emotional states that resonate with audiences.
  • The screenplay, penned by Kelly Masterson, reflects a remarkable debut at the age of 50, emphasizing the idea that it is never too late to pursue one's passion in filmmaking.
  • Director Sidney Lumet's final film encapsulates his lifelong mastery of storytelling, blending tension and character development in a manner that is both compelling and unsettling.
  • The film's editing style, reminiscent of works like 'Pulp Fiction', reinforces the narrative's urgency while maintaining a rhythmic flow that keeps viewers engaged throughout its duration.
  • The use of New York City as a backdrop is subtly integrated, yet it raises questions about the authenticity of the setting, suggesting that the emotional landscape is more critical than the geographic one.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  • Columbia
  • Vancouver Film School
  • Sundance
  • Metallica
  • Smithsonian
  • Harwood
  • Coen Brothers
  • Twilight
  • Sidney Lumet
  • 12 Angry Men
  • Murder on the Orient Express
  • Green Day
  • Paramore
  • Michael Jackson
  • Mariah Carey
  • Corn
  • Switchfoot
  • Kelly Masterson
  • Snowpiercer

Mentioned in this episode:

Shoot The Flick Podcast

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88 MIN