The Popcorn Hour with Matt and James

https://paa.ge/popcornhourThis 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 controversial and mysterious film HIM is officially making its way to theaters, sparking plenty of buzz. From prestige projects to unexpected twists, it’s a packed week of updates you won’t want to miss.

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 more than thirty years later, and what makes it such a fascinating entry point into the career of one of modern cinema’s most imaginative directors.

https://paa.ge/popcornhourThis week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James catch you up on a wide mix of movie news and industry stories. We start by honoring the life and legacy of Robert Redford, reflecting on his career and the influence he’s had on generations of filmmakers. We then dive into Sydney Sweeney’s surprising new boxing movie and what this role could mean for her evolving career. From there, we shift to the business side of Hollywood with news of SAG-AFTRA’s newly elected president and what this leadership change might signal for actors and the industry moving forward. Finally, we wrap things up with a look at the Emmy Awards — the big winners, some unexpected turns, and what stood out most from this year’s ceremony. It’s a full mix of tributes, new projects, and industry updates — all in one episode.

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 performance as the Joker, a crime-thriller edge, and a cultural impact that still resonates today. Finally, we unpack The Dark Knight Rises (2012) — its ambitious scope, divisive moments, and whether it sticks the landing as the trilogy’s finale.Along the way, we compare the films’ themes, highlight the performances that shaped them, and debate whether Nolan’s trilogy still stands as the definitive Batman story in cinema.

Eggers continues to push genre boundaries, and what this project could mean for his already unique filmography.Then we jump into The Smashing Machine, the Safdie brothers’ new wrestling drama starring Dwayne Johnson. We discuss why this role could be a career-shifting move for The Rock, how the Safdies might ground his performance, and what makes this one of the most intriguing A24 projects on the horizon.

This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James step into the squared circle for a wrestling double feature — two films that take very different approaches to the pain, spectacle, and legacy of professional wrestling. First up is Queen of the Ring (2024), Ash Avildsen’s biographical drama about Mildred Burke, the first million-dollar female athlete in U.S. history and a trailblazer for women’s wrestling. We unpack Emily Bett Rickards’ performance as Burke, the film’s gritty portrayal of her rise, and how it balances inspirational sports drama with the darker realities of life inside the ring. We also touch on the film’s mixed critical reception, its controversial release journey, and whether it earns its place as a fresh wrestling biopic or stumbles into familiar tropes. Then we turn to A24’s The Iron Claw (2023), Sean Durkin’s heartbreaking chronicle of the Von Erich family — one of wrestling’s most tragic dynasties. With powerhouse performances from Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Holt McCallany, this film doesn’t just explore the triumphs of the ring but digs deep into themes of family, trauma, and sacrifice. We break down its emotional impact, how it frames wrestling as both an escape and a curse, and why it’s become one of A24’s most talked-about dramas. Along the way, we compare the two films — one about a pioneering woman who built wrestling’s future, the other about a family consumed by its past. Together, they show wrestling as more than spectacle: it’s a story about ambition, resilience, and the cost of glory.

This week on The Popcorn Hour, Matt and James break down a packed slate of movie news: James Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Man of Tomorrow, Danny Boyle’s return with 28 Years Later, the mystery of A24’s Bone Temple, and Benny Safdie’s wrestling drama The Smashing Machine. We dig into the hype, the risks, and what each project means for the future of film.

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.

This week we’re loaded with movie and TV news! Quentin Tarantino’s next project rumors are heating up—could this really be his final film? The cult comedy Super Troopers is making headlines with updates on the long-awaited sequel. And over in the DC universe, Peacemaker Season 2 is officially on the way—what can we expect from James Gunn’s return to the most chaotic anti-hero on TV? We break it all down, share what excites us most, and speculate on what’s coming next in Hollywood.

In this episode of Weapons Review, we dive deep into the year’s most talked-about horror film. Does it live up to the hype, or is it just another jump-scare factory? We break down the scares, the storytelling, the performances, and whether this movie deserves the crown as the year’s best horror release. Expect spoiler-free impressions up front, followed by a spoiler-heavy analysis for the true horror buffs. Grab your flashlight and join us as we decide if this film really is the weapon of choice for horror fans everywhere.

This week, we dive into the biggest stories in the world of film. We reflect on the incredible career of legendary actor Terence Stamp following his passing, explore AMC’s surprising format changes and what they mean for moviegoers, and step into the eerie unknown with the upcoming Backrooms film adaptation. Plus, we break down the buzz (and rumors!) around a potential Scary Movie 6—could the parody franchise be making a comeback?

In this episode, we dive deep into Wes Anderson’s whimsical yet bittersweet masterpiece, The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014), through the lens of its Criterion Collection release. We explore how Anderson’s meticulous world-building, pastel color palettes, and symmetrical compositions elevate the film into a storybook brought to life.From Ralph Fiennes’ razor-sharp performance as the ever-refined Monsieur Gustave H., to the film’s meditations on nostalgia, memory, and a vanishing Europe, we unpack the layers that make this film one of Anderson’s most celebrated works. We also highlight Criterion’s special features—restored visuals, commentary, and behind-the-scenes insights—that enrich the viewing experience and reveal the craftsmanship behind every frame.Whether you’re a longtime Anderson fan or a newcomer discovering his work through Criterion, join us for a thoughtful look at how The Grand Budapest Hotel captures both comedy and tragedy in a world fading into history.

In this episode, we dive deep into the latest developments shaping the world of cinema. We start by discussing Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming final film, exploring everything known so far about the story, cast, and style, and what this conclusion might mean for his celebrated career. Next, we take a detailed look at the most recent box office numbers, analyzing which films are exceeding expectations, which are underperforming, and what trends are emerging in the industry. We also cover Spike Lee’s new project, examining its potential impact and how it fits into his body of work, along with what audiences can anticipate from his unique directorial voice.Along the way, we provide insights into industry strategies, discuss the significance of these releases in the broader context of modern cinema, and offer our own perspectives on what these stories tell us about the current state of Hollywood. This episode is packed with information, analysis, and thoughtful commentary, making it a must-listen for anyone who wants a comprehensive update on the biggest news in film right now.

In this episode, we take a closer look at Sinners, exploring its themes of morality, guilt, and redemption. We examine the film’s narrative structure, performances, and visual style, and discuss how each element contributes to its overall impact. This is a detailed, spoiler-filled review for listeners who want a thoughtful analysis of the film’s strengths and weaknesses.

This week we break down every movie currently in theaters and their global box office numbers, from The Fantastic Four: First Steps dominating the charts to indie sleeper Together making quiet waves. We also dive into the biggest Hollywood headlines, including the global release of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle on August 8, Margot Robbie teaming with Tim Burton for a remake of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman, Miranda Cosgrove confirming an iCarly wrap-up movie, Liam Neeson surprising audiences in the horror-comedy Cold Storage, and A$AP Rocky co-starring in A24’s upcoming drama If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. We wrap things up with a look ahead to Red Sonja and Freakier Friday, and share which films might shake up the charts next week. Whether you’re a box office junkie or just want the week’s movie buzz in, this episode has you covered.

In this episode of The Popcorn Hour Podcast, we dive headfirst into the wonderfully messy world of bad movies we absolutely love. From box office flops to critically panned disasters, we’re talking about the films that somehow won us over despite their flaws—or maybe because of them. These are the forgotten oddities and cult classics that remind us why "so bad it's good" is a genre of its own. Join us as we explore what makes these movies so charming, laugh at their most outrageous moments, and celebrate the joy of loving the unlovable.

On this week’s episode of Popcorn Hour, we dive into the latest movie news you might’ve missed. From the ever-changing box office standings to fresh updates on streaming platforms, there’s a lot to cover. We talk about the surprising films climbing the charts and the latest buzz around a possible Batman casting—could Brandon really be stepping into the cowl? We also touch on some hidden gems from Comic-Con that flew under the radar, including whispers about upcoming Fantastic Four content. On the streaming front, we highlight some of the newest releases now available to watch at home, alongside a few notable updates from the world of TV.

This week on The Popcorn Hour, we're diving headfirst into Marvel’s latest swing at Fantastic Four! Is this reboot finally the version fans have been waiting for, or are we in for another cinematic misfire? We break down the highs, the lows, the casting, the chemistry, the action—and yes, the post-credit scenes.

Get the latest scoop in the world of cinema with our Movie News episode! We dive into all the exciting updates about the Fantastic 4, unpack the fresh buzz surrounding the MCU reboot, and break down the hottest new trailers just released. Plus, we reveal all the recent casting announcements shaking up Hollywood. Whether you’re a Marvel fan or just love staying ahead on movie trends, this episode is packed with everything you need to know!

This month on The Popcorn Hour Podcast, we dive deep into the Criterion Collection to explore Mathieu Kassovitz’s explosive 1995 drama La Haine. Set in the aftermath of a violent riot in the Parisian suburbs, the film follows 24 tension-filled hours in the lives of three young men navigating rage, inequality, and survival. We discuss its stark black-and-white cinematography, the razor-sharp dialogue, and the film’s haunting relevance today.From its political urgency to its lasting cultural impact, join us as we unpack why La Haine isn’t just a film—it’s a wake-up call. Plus, we debate where it ranks among Criterion’s best and how its message resonates 30 years later.

In this episode, we dive into the most exciting film news on the horizon, from anticipated sequels to brand-new original films! Get ready for a sneak peek at the biggest releases set to hit theaters in the next few years, including Rian Johnson’s Knives Out 3, the epic return of Tron with Tron: Ares, and the *next chapter of the Godzilla and Kong saga. We also talk about A24’s upcoming slate featuring projects by top directors like Ari Aster and James Gray, plus new films from the legendary Steven Spielberg and Edgar Wright.From the unexpected announcement of a Donkey Kong movie to Stephen King's latest adaptations, we cover it all! Plus, we talk about highly anticipated sequels like Scream 7 and The Running Man, which will keep you at the edge of your seat.Tune in as we discuss these upcoming cinematic milestones and what they could mean for the future of film! Whether you're a diehard Marvel fan or a lover of indie films, this episode has something for everyone.Don’t forget to hit subscribe, and stay tuned for more in-depth film discussions every week!

Breaking down the new Superman movie! Full reactions, hidden Easter eggs, behind-the-scenes details, and why this could be the start of something huge for DC.

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