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  • We're excited to start our The Crow series! This episode of the Movie Wars podcast dives deep into the cult classic "The Crow," highlighting its unique blend of revenge, tragedy, and artistry. Kyle invites Nashville comedians and film auteurs Drew Davis and Seth Kays to guest host The Crow series. The hosts discuss the film's impact, particularly focusing on Brandon Lee's iconic performance and the hauntingly atmospheric setting that contributes to the story's emotional weight. With insightful commentary on the supporting cast, including memorable villains and their creative deaths, the conversation reveals how each character's demise resonates with their crimes. The episode also explores the significance of the film's aesthetic choices, from the deliberate color palette to the use of miniatures, which give the city a character of its own. Listeners can expect a mix of comedy and thoughtful analysis as the hosts reflect on what makes "The Crow" a timeless piece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.

    Also, this episode utilized Kyle's new War Card formula for the new and improved MWP 2.0 format!

    Takeaways:

    The podcast discusses the cultural impact of 'The Crow' and its tragic backstory, including Brandon Lee's untimely death during filming. The hosts highlight the unique and memorable villains in 'The Crow', emphasizing their one-dimensionality yet effective portrayals. There is a focus on the film's soundtrack, especially how it enhances emotional moments and complements the visuals. The setting of 'The Crow' is analyzed as a character in itself, with its gritty and dark atmosphere contributing significantly to the story. Brandon Lee's involvement in the makeup and wardrobe choices is praised for adding authenticity to his portrayal of Eric Draven. The episode concludes with a discussion on how the themes of revenge and justice are timeless, resonating with audiences even today.

    A vibrant discussion unfolds as Kyle reunites with his comedian co-hosts, Drew Davis and Seth Kays, to dissect the cult classic, The Crow. Kyle's passion for the film is palpable as he recounts its significance in his life, ranking it among his top 50 films and expressing dismay over the 2024 reboot. The episode dives into the heart of the film, exploring Brandon Lee's impactful performance and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, which adds a layer of poignancy to the viewing experience. Each co-host shares their unique perspectives on the film, with Drew and Seth bringing humor and insight into the narrative's themes of loss and revenge.

    As the conversation progresses, the trio analyzes the memorable supporting characters, highlighting the performances of actors like Michael Wincott and David Patrick Kelly. They discuss how these characters contribute to the film's overall atmosphere, each embodying distinct traits that make them unforgettable. The hosts also delve into the film's soundtrack, emphasizing how it enhances key moments and adds emotional depth to the storytelling. The discussion flows seamlessly between analysis and personal anecdotes, creating an engaging dynamic that keeps listeners entertained.

    The episode culminates in a thoughtful examination of revenge as a central theme in The Crow, with the hosts debating the moral implications of Eric Draven's journey. They explore how the film's portrayal of an anti-hero resonates with audiences, allowing for a complex discussion about the nature of justice and vengeance in cinema. Kyle, Drew, and Seth wrap up the episode by reflecting on the impact of The Crow on the genre, expressing their hopes for the upcoming reboot while celebrating the original's legacy. This lively and insightful discussion is a treat for fans of The Crow and anyone interested in the deeper themes of...

  • Our Mad Max series continues! Hosts Kyle and Matthew explore the profound impact of Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior on the action genre. Delving into its groundbreaking stunts, Western film influences, and director George Miller's rise to prominence, the hosts celebrate the movie's transformation into a potential cinematic masterpiece. Tune in to discover why The Road Warrior is more than just an action film, but a revolutionary classic that continues to influence the genre. But how will it fair on the War Score?

    Stay tuned as we see this series through to the end. We've got Beyond Thunderdome, Fury Road, and Furiosa in the pipe! Make sure you share with the Mad Max fan in your life.

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  • In this episode from the Patreon archives, Kyle interviews the legendary Mic Rodgers, a celebrated stunt coordinator, director, and long-time stunt double for Mel Gibson. With over 40 years in the industry, Rodgers has revolutionized the world of action cinema. They delve into his groundbreaking invention, the Mic-Rig, which has become a game-changer for high-octane films like the 'Fast & Furious' series, transforming how car stunts are filmed and experienced on screen.

    Rodgers has left his mark on a plethora of iconic films, including his work as Mel Gibson's double in classics like 'Lethal Weapon,' 'Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome,' and the Academy Award-winning 'Braveheart.' Beyond his work with Gibson, he has contributed to the success of action-packed blockbusters such as 'Twister,' 'Hacksaw Ridge,' 'John Wick,' 'The Expendables,' and 'Avatar.'

    Notably, Rodgers' innovation with the Mic-Rig earned him a Technical Grammy Award, recognizing his groundbreaking contribution to the field of film production technology. His invention has set new standards in the industry, enabling filmmakers to capture more dynamic and immersive action sequences.

    Tune in as Mic shares behind-the-scenes stories, his approach to stunt coordination, and the technical innovations that have set new benchmarks in filmmaking.

  • Get ready for an exciting new series of the Movie Wars Podcast! Today, we're kicking off the Mad Max franchise series with comedian and film critic Matthew Belivins joining Kyle for the entire series. We're also introducing a tweaked format and war card, which we think you're going to love.

    The Mad Max franchise is known for its groundbreaking stunts and dystopian imaginings. It also introduced the world to future legend Mel Gibson. Originating from the Ozploitation movement of 1970s Australian cinema, Mad Max gained international attention despite a budget of only $400K. The Shakespearean villains are more memorable than the protagonist, who would rather fade into the oblivion of the Western-style conflicts he finds himself in. Cut from the framework of traditional Westerns, Mad Max offers a dystopian take on the classic "...a stranger walks into town" formula.

    Join us as we delve into this important franchise in film history and explore the world of Mad Max.

  • Here's a good one from the Patreon archives. In this special episode of Movie Wars, Kyle had the privilege of sitting down with the legendary Steve Byrne—comedian, director, writer, and documentarian. Known for his sharp wit and groundbreaking comedy specials like Happy Hour, The Byrne Identity, Champion, Tell the Damn Joke, and The Last Late Night, Steve shares his incredible journey in standup and his successful transition into filmmaking. He also takes us behind the scenes of his acclaimed sitcom Sullivan & Son, where he starred and co-created the show, which ran for three seasons on TBS.

    Steve talks about his work writing and directing feature films, including The Opening Act (2020), a comedy that captures the struggles of an up-and-coming comedian, and The Last Late Night (2023), a special that showcases his passion for blending the worlds of stand-up and late-night talk shows. We also discuss the challenges he faced in making the documentary Always Amazing, which chronicles the life of his close friend, The Amazing Johnathan, and the controversy it sparked with a competing filmmaker. Enjoy!

  • Movie Wars is back, and in the lead-up to our official relaunch this October, host Kyle is celebrating Friday the 13th with a special episode! Joined by stand-up comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins, they dive deep into the question: Why does the Friday the 13th franchise have such lasting power? With 12 films, over 10 directors, and more than $460 million at the box office, this iconic horror series has left an indelible mark on pop culture. From its rise in horror history to the enduring themes that keep Jason Voorhees alive in the cultural zeitgeist, this episode explores it all. Tune in for a killer discussion that every horror fan will love!

  • Speaking of wars, Kyle revisits one of his all-time favorite Hollywood stories. If you weren't aware, the release of Stanley Kurbrick's The Shining started a kerfuffle with the novel's beloved author, Stephen King. The Shining was King's most autobiographical work that brought him into the limelight. He saw Kubrick's interpretation as an insult to his prized work. Kyle analyzes and retells the story and concludes with who he believes came out the other side victorious, albeit, decades later.

    Don't forget to join our newsletter and follow us on TikTok and Instagram! We love hearing from our listeners.

  • The MWP crew is excited to get to a matchup that’s been on the list for a while. Silver Linings Playbook Vs As Good As It Gets is an Oscar-nomination-laden matchup, both bringing home best actress for Helen Hunt and Jennifer Lawrence. Unconventional and offbeat romance films, both movies do a decent job of portraying the act of finding love through the lens of mental illness. Jack Nicholson delivered yet another groundbreaking performance as Melvin while Silver Linings Playbook brought Jennifer Lawrence into the spotlight. Find unconventional love with the Movie Wars crew and step over the cracks.

    And oh…. You make us want to be a better podcast.

    Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates!

  • Kyle and Drew dive headfirst into their obsession with Arnold and Sly movies. This is no surprise to long-term MWP fans. We discuss whether or not it's possible for the environment and circumstances to create a similar era of dominance for action stars. Arnold and Sly's multi-decade runs, muscles, and over-the-top action were ushered in by the 80s, and elongated throughout the 90's(and a little 2000s in there too). Was this a case of the perfect stars for the perfect time, or could we see another star take the mantle of dominance?

    Please weigh in on our social media platforms: Instagram and TikTok.

  • We're pulling this one from the ancient Patreon archives for our main feed listeners. It was such an honor to meet and interview legendary screenwriter Peter Iliff. We spent most of our time talking about how his career which started with him waiting tables until he sold the early draft of Point Break to Ridley Scott. The story is truly incredible, including James Cameron buying the property from Scott and polishing the final version of the script. Iliff would go on to write more fantastic films including Varsity Blues, and Patriot Games. He's also come into his own as a director.

    Lastly, if you've ever has aspirations to write a screenplay, this is the podcast for you. Peter goes through what it's like to write in today's Hollywood and provides tips for future screenwriters.

    What a great convo!

  • Kyle is incensed after his first viewing of the long-awaited The Crow remake trailer, starring Bill Skarsgård as Eric Draven. The original is not only one of Kyle's all-time favorite films and comfort movies, he believes 1994's The Crow possesses a high level of cultural significance. Can any iteration or remake of this classic justify attempts to infringe on Brandon Lee's tragic legacy, a film that led to his on-set death?

    Even though the Movie Wars crew aren't typically "trailer reaction" guys, Kyle thoroughly discusses Hollywood's latest attempt at retreading beloved IP.

    Head to our socials and drop your thoughts!

  • Throughout film history, directors have identified their go-to collaborators and gone back to the well several times. Scorsese and De Niro have collaborated 11 times. John Wayne and John Ford worked together 21 times. Kyle and Drew go off-topic and analyze the all-time best Actor/Director duos, why they work, and what directors see in their frequent collaborators. They also go through some of their favorites duos.

  • Welcome to one of the most low-hanging fruit, on-the-nose matchups we've ever done. The same director. The same author of the source material. Both take place in prisons where plenty of free men are locked up for crimes they didn't commit. By many lists, The Shawshank Redemption is considered the greatest film of all time. Although The Green Mile doesn't share the same status, it carries plenty of cache on its own. Walk the Green Mile toward freedom with the Movie Wars crew! 

  • A movie podcast walks into town... The Western may be the most flexible and dynamic film genre. It's survived over a century while experiencing new forms and shapes, all built on its undeniably effective tested-by-time formula. Not only is Tombstone one of the most beloved versions of that formula but it is also considered the best Western of all time by a large contingency of six-shooter-loving move-goers. And then you have Wyatt Earp...a film that, on paper, had all the makings of a masterpiece. Suffering the critical success of Tombstone, which was released just months pryer, the film was slammed by critics and flopped financially. That being said, it seemed fitting to seize the opportunity to compare two films that tell the same exact story from different perspectives. Get your mustaches on and draw...it's Movie Wars.

    TOMBSTONE

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    MOVIE INFO

    Wyatt Earp (Kurt Russell) and his brothers, Morgan (Bill Paxton) and Virgil (Sam Elliott), have left their gunslinger ways behind them to settle down and start a business in the town of Tombstone, Ariz. While they aren't looking to find trouble, trouble soon finds them when they become targets of the ruthless Cowboy gang. Now, together with Wyatt's best friend, Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer), the brothers pick up their guns once more to restore order to a lawless land.

    Rating: R

    Genre: Western, ActionOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: 

    George P. Cosmatos

    Producer: 

    Sean Daniel

    James Jacks

    Bob Misiorowski

    Writer: 

    Kevin Jarre
    Release Date (Theaters): Dec 25, 1993  WideRelease Date (Streaming): Jul 1, 2014Box Office (Gross USA): $55.9MRuntime: 2h 7m
    WYATT EARP

    The epic biography of western lawman Wyatt Earp, who at an early age, is taught that nothing matters more than family and the law. He becomes a respected sheriff in Dodge City and Tombstone. Joined by his brothers and Doc Holliday, Earp wages war on the dreaded Clanton and McLaury gangs.

    Rating: PG-13

    Genre: BiographyOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: 

    Lawrence Kasdan

    Producer: 

    Jim Wilson

    Kevin Costner

    Lawrence Kasdan
    Release Date (Theaters): Jun 24, 1994  WideRelease Date (Streaming): Jan 1, 2008Box Office (Gross USA): $24.6MRuntime: 3h 11mDistributor: Warner Bros. PicturesProduction Co: Warner Bros., Tig Productions

    Thank you Rotten Tomatoes!

  • The Movie Wars crew was exhilarated to tackle two buddy cop classics in 1989's Lethal Weapon 2 and 1995's Bad Boys. Similar to Westerns, the Buddy Cop genre has been transformed and retooled, all while paying homage to a timeless formula. The chemistry between the lead actors drives both of these films. LW2 reveals that Riggs and Murtaugh are more like family than when they were introduced in the franchise's first entry, where they were beleaguered and struggled to reconcile their opposing policing methods. Bad Boys hinges more on Mike and Marcus' friction and bickering, leading to the ultimate payoff when their highly effective partnership is put on full display. Both films are anchored by comedic third wheels played by a pair of legendary Joes(Pesci and Pantoliano). How will the war score fair for these two genre titans? Give it a listen because you're never too old for this Movie Wars sh*t. 

    Film Summaries

    Lethal Weapon 2

    South African smugglers find themselves being hounded and harassed by Riggs and Murtaugh, two mismatched Los Angeles police officers. However, the South Africans are protected by diplomatic immunity, and so the two are assigned to witness-protection duty in an attempt by their captain to keep his job. It is only when this witness reveals to them that he has already dealt with the smugglers that the trouble really starts.

    Rating: RGenre: Action, Mystery & thrillerOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Richard DonnerProducer: Richard Donner, Joel SilverWriter: Jeffrey BoamRelease Date (Theaters): Jul 7, 1989  OriginalRelease Date (Streaming): Aug 15, 2008Box Office (Gross USA): $144.9MRuntime: 1h 53mDistributor: Warner Bros. PicturesProduction Co: Warner Bros., Silver Pictures

    Bad Boys

    Miami-Dade detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) blow a fuse when $100 million worth of heroin they recently confiscated is heisted from station headquarters. Suspecting it was an inside job, Internal Affairs gives them five days to track down the drugs before they shut down the narcotics division. Action meets farce when Marcus is compelled to masquerade as his partner in order to gain the trust of a call girl (Tea Leoni), a key witness in their investigation.

    Rating: RGenre: Action, ComedyOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Michael BayProducer: Don Simpson, Jerry BruckheimerWriter: George Gallo, 
  • Watching "The Boondock Saints" was considered a dorm room initiation during Kyle, Drew, and Phil's college years. Highly requested by our listeners, "The Boondock Saints" possesses one of the most prolific cult followings in history. Its success was bolstered primarily by Blockbuster rentals. Although critics bashed the film, a lauded documentary titled "Overnight" received high marks for its portrayal of Troy Duffy; the highly volatile, rags-to-riches director who eventually found himself blacklisted for his uncouth approach to directing Harvey Weinstein's Diamond in the Rough. As for "Snatch," Guy Ritchie is the most requested director we've yet to cover. With his unique blend of violence, humor, and rapid-fire pacing, Guy Ritchie's style shines in "Snatch." 

    With God on our side, the MWP crew slays the wicked war card, bare knuckles and all. 

    Click here to become an executive producer on Movie Wars by supporting us on Patreon!

    Film Summaries

    The Boondock Saints


    Tired of the crime overrunning the streets of Boston, Irish Catholic twin brothers Conner (Sean Patrick Flanery) and Murphy (Norman Reedus) are inspired by their faith to cleanse their hometown of evil with their own brand of zealous vigilante justice. As they hunt down and kill one notorious gangster after another, they become controversial folk heroes in the community. But Paul Smecker (Willem Dafoe), an eccentric FBI agent, is fast closing in on their blood-soaked trail.

    Rating: RGenre: Crime, Drama, Mystery & thrillerOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Troy DuffyProducer: Chris Brinker, Robert N. Fried, Elie Samaha, Lloyd SeganWriter: Troy DuffyRelease Date (Theaters): Aug 4, 1999 OriginalRelease Date (Streaming): Nov 25, 2015Box Office (Gross USA): $19.9KRuntime: 1h 50mDistributor: New City Releasing [us], Indican Pictures

    (Thank you Rotten Tomatoes https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/boondock_saints)

    Snatch

    Illegal boxing promoter Turkish (Jason Statham) convinces gangster Brick Top (Alan Ford) to offer bets on bare-knuckle boxer Mickey (Brad Pitt) at his bookie business. When Mickey does not throw his first fight as agreed, an infuriated Brick Top demands another match. Meanwhile, gangster Frankie Four Fingers (Benicio del Toro) comes to place a bet for a friend with Brick Top's bookies, as multiple criminals converge on a stolen diamond that Frankie has come to London to sell.

    Rating: R (Some Nudity|Language|Strong Violence)Genre: Comedy, DramaOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Guy RitchieProducer: Matthew VaughnWriter: Guy RitchieRelease Date (Theaters): Jan 19, 2001 WideRelease Date (Streaming): Mar 1, 2011Box Office (Gross USA): $30.1MRuntime: 1h 38mDistributor: Screen GemsProduction Co: Columbia Pictures, SKA FilmsSound Mix: Surround, Dolby SR, Dolby Digital, SDDSAspect Ratio: Flat...
  • It was only a matter of time before the Movie Wars crew released an Arnold Vs. Arnold episode. Drew and Phil treated Kyle to cigars and Thai food for his birthday while we watched "Arnold" on Netflix. Needless to say, it was inspiring for us. We ditched "Mr. And Mrs. Smith" (which is a good match plotwise) for the ultimate Arnold fan matchup. By many standards and opinions, "True Lies" is considered to be Arnold's finest work, while "Eraser" marks the end of what film scholars believe to be Arnold's golden era which started with "Conan the Barbarian" in 1982. Often maligned, the MWP crew found a lot of joy in "Eraser" and the throughlines were too hard to ignore. Get erased and lie to your spouse about your career. Check out "True Lies" Vs. "Eraser." 

    Help the crew make more shows and keep this operation going by supporting us on Patreon! Also, the easiest way to help MWP is sharing with your friends and on social media.

    Film Summaries

    Eraser

    John "The Eraser" Kruger is the top gun in the US Marshall Witness Protection scheme; he erases their past and deals with their future. His latest assignment is whistle-blower Dr. Lee Cullen, who has evidence against a major arms corporation that's selling weapons to terrorists with the collusion of rogue enemy agents within, but there is danger nearer home for Kruger, from within his own department.

    Rating: RGenre: ActionOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Chuck RussellProducer: Arnold Kopelson, Anne KopelsonWriter: Walon Green, Walon Green, Tony PuryearRelease Date (Theaters): Jun 21, 1996 WideRelease Date (Streaming): Aug 15, 2008Box Office (Gross USA): $101.3MRuntime: 1h 55mDistributor: Warner Bros. Pictures

    True Lies

    Secretly a spy but thought by his family to be a dull salesman, Harry Tasker (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is tracking down nuclear missiles in the possession of Islamic jihadist Aziz (Art Malik). Harry's mission is complicated when he realizes his neglected wife, Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis), is contemplating an affair with Simon (Bill Paxton), a used-car salesman who claims he's a spy. When Aziz kidnaps Harry and Helen, the secret agent must save the world and patch up his marriage at the same time.

    Rating: RGenre: Action, ComedyOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: James CameronProducer: 
  • We're thinking we're back! Nothing summarizes this matchup like the words "sweet revenge." John Wick and Taken are two fantastic action films revolving around uniquely skilled protagonists avenging the loss of dogs and people near and dear to them. Kyle loved the opportunity to re-introduce the "Keanu Lifer" back to the podcast. We also discussed how John Wick captures the essence of the classic action films we love while developing its own style. Enjoy John Wick Vs. Taken with guns blazing, or if you don't, we will look for you and we will find you. 

    John Wick

    Legendary assassin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) retired from his violent career after marrying the love of his life. Her sudden death leaves John in deep mourning. When sadistic mobster Iosef Tarasov (Alfie Allen) and his thugs steal John's prized car and kill the puppy that was a last gift from his wife, John unleashes the remorseless killing machine within and seeks vengeance. Meanwhile, Iosef's father (Michael Nyqvist) -- John's former colleague -- puts a huge bounty on John's head.

    Rating: R (Language|Brief Drug Use|Strong Bloody Violence)Genre: Action, Mystery & thrillerOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Chad StahelskiProducer: Basil Iwanyk, David Leitch, Eva LongoriaWriter: Derek KolstadRelease Date (Theaters): Oct 24, 2014 WideRelease Date (Streaming): Feb 3, 2015Box Office (Gross USA): $43.0MRuntime: 1h 41mDistributor: Lionsgate Films

    Taken

    Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson), a former government operative, is trying to reconnect with his daughter, Kim (Maggie Grace). Then his worst fears become real when sex slavers abduct Kim and her friend shortly after they arrive in Paris for vacation. With just four days until Kim will be auctioned off, Bryan must call on every skill he learned in black ops to rescue her.

    Rating: PG-13 (Intense Sequences of Violence|Disturbing Thematic Material|Language|Sexual Content|Some Drug References)Genre: Action, Mystery & thrillerOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Pierre MorelProducer: Luc BessonWriter: Luc Besson, Robert Mark...
  • The video game movie genre is experiencing a renaissance. Traditionally, cinema has heavily influenced the production of video games. Games like Resident Evil and Metal Gear Solid are evidence of this. As video games have become more cinematic on their own, the sentiment around video game-influenced movies has increased. Shows like The Last Of Us and the upcoming Super Mario Brothers movie are garnering more interest from the masses than any game-inspired IP before them. Today, the guys are covering two female-led video game films: Resident Evil and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Kyle, Drew, and Phile had a mighty fine time drawing from their love of video games for this matchup. 

    FILM SUMMARIES

    Resident Evil

    Based on the popular video game, Milla Jovovich and Michelle Rodriguez star as the leaders of a commando team who must break into "the hive," a vast underground genetics laboratory operated by the powerful Umbrella Corporation. There, a deadly virus has been unleashed, killing the lab's personnel and resurrecting them as the evil Un-dead. The team has just three hours to shut down the lab's supercomputer and close the facility before the virus threatens to overrun the Earth.

    Genre: Horror, ActionOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Paul W.S. AndersonProducer: Jeremy Bolt, Bernd Eichinger, Samuel Hadida, Paul W.S. AndersonWriter: Alan B. McElroyRelease Date (Theaters): Mar 15, 2002 WideRelease Date (Streaming): Sep 7, 2004Box Office (Gross USA): $39.5MRuntime: 1h 40mDistributor: Columbia PicturesSound Mix: Dolby Stereo, Dolby Digital, Dolby A, Surround, Dolby SR

    This live action feature is inspired by the most successful interactive video-game character in history -- Lara Croft. Beautiful and brainy, Lara (Angelina Jolie) is the heroine of Eidos Interactive's phenomenally successful "Tomb Raider" game series. It is one woman's fearless quest criss-crossing the globe, in an amazing attempt to save the world.

    Rating: PG-13 (Some Sensuality|Action/Violence)Genre: Adventure, Action, FantasyOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Simon WestProducer: Lawrence Gordon, Lloyd Levin, Colin WilsonWriter: Patrick Massett, John Zinman, Simon West, Sara B. Cooper, Mike Werb, Michael CollearyRelease Date (Theaters): Jun 15, 2001 WideRelease Date (Streaming): Nov 13, 2001Box Office (Gross USA): $131.1MRuntime: 1h 40mDistributor: Paramount PicturesSound Mix: SDDS, Dolby Digital, DTS, Surround, Dolby Stereo

    Info courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes!

  • Batman films serve as a time-stamped looking glass into the temperament of society. The stark difference in tone is evident when you watch 2005's Batman Begins after watching Tim Burton's Batman (1989). The inherent silliness that endears 1989's Batman seems like a spectacle when compared to Nolan's entries which embody the post-9/11 nihilism that we've discussed on the podcast many times. Yet somehow, 2022's The Batman takes the cake when it comes to channeling darkness. When you pair the truly noir detective roots of Batman with Matt Reeve's pandemic-born, post-election-inspired grunge opus, you get The Batman. Join Kyle, Drew, and Phil in the Movie Wars cave as we pit two celebrated Batmen against one another. 

    Click here to become an executive producer on Movie Wars by supporting us on Patreon! A measly $7 gets you access to Kyle’s new 20-minute film retrospectives which are deep dives into the films we cover(and Patron Requests), interviews with legendary filmmakers, Host Q and A, and bonus content.

    Film Summaries

    THE BATMAN

    Batman ventures into Gotham City's underworld when a sadistic killer leaves behind a trail of cryptic clues. As the evidence begins to lead closer to home and the scale of the perpetrator's plans become clear, he must forge new relationships, unmask the culprit and bring justice to the abuse of power and corruption that has long plagued the metropolis.

    Rating: PG-13 (Some Suggestive Material|Drug Content|Strong Disturbing Content|Strong Language|Strong Violent Content)Genre: Action, Adventure, Crime, DramaOriginal Language: EnglishDirector: Matt ReevesProducer: Dylan Clark, Matt ReevesWriter: Matt Reeves, Peter CraigRelease Date (Theaters): Mar 4, 2022  WideRelease Date (Streaming): Apr 19, 2022Box Office (Gross USA): $369.3MRuntime: 2h 56mDistributor: Warner Bros. PicturesSound Mix: Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos, SDDSAspect Ratio: Scope (2.35:1)View the collection: Batman

    Info Courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_batman

    BATMAN BEGINS

    A young Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) travels to the Far East, where he's trained in the martial arts by Henri Ducard (Liam Neeson), a member of the mysterious League of Shadows. When Ducard reveals the League's true purpose -- the complete destruction of Gotham City -- Wayne returns to Gotham intent on cleaning up the city without resorting to murder. With the help of Alfred (Michael Caine), his loyal butler, and Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman), a tech expert at Wayne Enterprises, Batman is born.

    Rating: PG-13 (Some Thematic Elements|Disturbing Images|Intense Action Violence)Genre: Action, Fantasy,...