Thumb War

This week’s Patreon-only Thumb War is a classic check-in episode — no formal review, just us catching up and going wherever the conversation takes us. Subscribe to Patreon for the full episode! We get into: Trivia and random movie tangents A deep dive into what’s going on with Star Trek right now The Andy Weir conversation and sci-fi expectations Why some shows just aren’t connecting A peek behind the curtain on YouTube, Shorts, and growing the podcast And a bunch of side quests along the way Loose, opinionated, and all over the place — exactly how these Patreon hangs are supposed to go. Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Thumb War, we revisit Star Wars: A New Hope and break down why it became one of the most influential films of all time. We discuss the film’s impact, performances, practical effects, and why it still resonates decades later — along with a few modern critiques and observations. Does it still hold up? Or is it all nostalgia? Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Thumb War, we review Project Hail Mary, the new sci-fi film starring Ryan Gosling. We break down the story, performances, humor, and emotional beats, plus how the film balances complex science with accessibility. We also discuss: The structure and flashbacks The tone and comedy Trailer spoilers and audience expectations And whether the movie sticks the landing Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Oscars are done — and we’re breaking it all down. On this episode of Thumb War, we react to the 98th Academy Awards, covering the biggest winners, surprising snubs, funniest moments, and a few truly baffling choices. We also get into: Red carpet hits and misses The best (and worst) bits from the broadcast Musical performances that worked… and didn’t Why Oscar clips keep spoiling entire movies And one of the best acceptance speeches of the night Plus: technical difficulties, streaming frustrations, and a whole lot of opinions. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Thumb War, JD and Rachel review the movie The Bride!, Maggie Gyllenhaal’s ambitious reimagining of the Frankenstein story. With a star-studded cast and big ideas about feminism, identity, and classic movie monsters, the film certainly swings for the fences. But does it actually work? We discuss the movie’s wild tonal shifts, confusing narrative, memorable performances from Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale, and why audiences seem so divided on the film. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Oscars are almost here, which means it’s time to make our predictions. JD and Rachel are joined by resident film expert DanDan The Pieman to break down the biggest categories at the 98th Academy Awards. We debate who should win, who will win, and which nominees might pull off an upset. Along the way we talk about the strangest Oscar nominees, the brutal emotional gauntlet of the short film categories, and the movies that might dominate this year’s ceremony. If you’re filling out an Oscar ballot or office pool, this episode might help you make a few smart picks. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send Help is Sam Raimi in full “fun mode” — gross, funny, mean, and extremely satisfying. On Thumb War, we break down Raimi’s return to crowd-pleasing horror, Rachel McAdams’ anti-hero arc, Survivor energy, island mind games, and why this movie works so well. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week’s Patreon-only Thumb War is very a late February check-in — no formal review, just conversation. We talk about: Trivia and random pop-culture facts Splitsville mini-review Travel stories and side quests Media overload and burnout BAFTA Awards conversation and online reactions Letting conversations breathe instead of spiraling Loose and thoughtful— a classic Patreon hang. Full Patreon chaos on Thumb War. Like, subscribe, and let us know what you think. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Starfleet Academy Episode 7 | Back to Being Boring After a brief uptick last week, Starfleet Academy Episode 7 drops right back into its worst instincts. On this episode of Thumb War, we unpack why the show’s teen-drama focus, disconnected plots, and deeply questionable character choices make this one of the most frustrating episodes of the season — and why we’re seriously debating whether to keep watching at all. When nothing happens, and nothing makes sense, it’s hard to stay invested. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Season 1 finale of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms proves that you don’t need dragons or explosions to deliver a powerful ending. On this episode of Thumb War, we unpack the emotional aftermath of the Trial of Seven, Dunk’s unwavering principles, Egg’s painful growth, and why this quiet, character-driven finale feels like classic Game of Thrones at its best. A beautiful ending — and a thrilling beginning. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 6 of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy is the best episode of the season so far — which only highlights how badly the show was set up in the first place. On this episode of Thumb War, we dig into why this finally feels like Star Trek, why it immediately falls apart under scrutiny, and how nostalgia, logic gaps, and baffling character choices keep undermining the series. It’s better. It’s still broken. And it should’ve happened way earlier. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die is a sci-fi comedy that feels silly, stressful, and uncomfortably relevant all at once. On this episode of Thumb War, we dig into Gore Verbinski’s return, Sam Rockwell’s charisma, Juno Temple’s emotional core, and why this movie’s AI-driven “happy ending” might be the scariest part of all. It’s not subtle — but it is effective. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re saying it out loud — and early: Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie is the best movie we’re going to see this year. On this episode of Thumb War, we break down the film’s impossible ambition, guerrilla filmmaking genius, time-travel chaos, and why this deeply specific Canadian comedy somehow feels universal. It’s hilarious, heartfelt, and a reminder of what theatrical comedies can still be. If it’s playing near you, go see it with a crowd. Immediately. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The penultimate episode of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms delivers one of the most intense, exhausting battle sequences the franchise has ever attempted. On this episode of Thumb War, we break down the Trial of Seven, the puke-filled chaos, Dunk’s disorienting POV, brutal flashbacks, and why this episode might be the best battle Westeros has ever seen. It’s gory, emotional, and unforgettable — and it sets the stage for a devastating finale. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights is messy, heat, confrontational, and absolutely not interested in pleasing everyone. On this episode of Thumb War, we break down Fennell’s bold interpretation of the Brontë classic — from erotic denial and cruelty-as-romance to audience backlash, Valentine’s Day chaos, and why this movie feels designed to make people uncomfortable. Is it brilliant? Is it too much? Or is that the whole idea? Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Full Thumb War episode out now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episodes 4 and 5 of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy lean heavily on legacy name-drops and Deep Space Nine nostalgia — but is that enough? In this episode of Thumb War, we break down the hologram storyline that doesn’t hold up, the Klingon cultural pivot, the triad reveal, and why Episode 5 might be the most frustrating (and maybe most boring) chapter of the season so far. We want to love new Star Trek. But honoring the past means more than just referencing it. Is this bold evolution… or just confused storytelling? Let us know what you think. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe on YouTube and Instagram Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re officially gushing — and in Westeros, that’s never a good sign. In this episode of Thumb War, we dive into Episode 4 of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, breaking down why the show feels so emotionally locked in right now, how Dunk & Egg’s relationship continues to deepen, and why the approaching Trial of Seven has us bracing for real consequences. It’s a near-perfect episode of television — warm, funny, thoughtful, and quietly terrifying in what it’s setting up next. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes & bonus content : http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Like & Subscribe on YouTube and Instagram Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rogue One is tragic, brutal, and maybe the best Star Wars movie outside the original trilogy. Jason, Rachel, and Jeshua revisit Rogue One in timeline order and unpack why it still hits so hard — from its war-movie structure and unforgettable ending to how Andor completely reframes Cassian’s story. We also get into K-2SO love, digital Tarkin debates, and why this movie feels so different from modern Star Wars. Spoilers throughout. Spoilers for Rogue One Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 3 is where A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms starts to feel truly special. Jason and Rachel break down the episode’s biggest moments, focusing on Dunk and Egg’s evolving friendship, the subtle reveals hiding in plain sight, and how George R.R. Martin quietly turns a simple tournament story into something far bigger. Spoilers for Episode 3 Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Email us: [email protected] Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Star Trek meets Hogwarts — and not in a good way. Jason and Rachel review the first three episodes of Starfleet Academy (2026), unpacking what works, what absolutely doesn’t, and why the show feels more like a CW teen drama than classic Star Trek. We dig into tone, character choices, legacy lore, and whether this series understands what made Star Trek special in the first place. Spoilers ahead. Strong opinions guaranteed. Like & Subscribe Leave a 5-star review if you’re enjoying Thumb War Subscribe for weekly movie & TV deep dives. Also available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple Review | Body Horror, Cult Logic & Chaos 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple doesn’t expand the world — it traps you inside it. On this episode of Thumb War, we dive into the franchise’s most disturbing chapter yet, breaking down Ray Fiennes’ fearless performance, the cult dynamics around the Bone Temple, and why this film feels closer to torture-adjacent body horror than traditional zombie cinema. It’s brutal. It’s intimate. And it might be the boldest swing the series has taken. Subscribe for weekly movie & TV deep dives. Also available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 2 of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms proves this isn’t just another Westeros spin-off — it’s something smaller, sweeter, and way more effective. On this episode of Thumb War, we dig into why Dunk & Egg’s chemistry is the secret sauce of the series, how seeing Westeros from ground level changes everything, and why this show works even if you don’t know every sigil, house, or rebellion. It’s funny, heartfelt, efficient storytelling — and it might be HBO’s most quietly confident fantasy series in years. Subscribe for weekly movie & TV deep dives. Also available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify Email us: [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The final season of Stranger Things is over — but the chaos behind it might be even more fascinating. In this episode of Thumb War, we break down “One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5”, the Netflix documentary that pulls back the curtain on the most ambitious (and stressful) production of the series. From starting Season 5 without a finished script, to massive practical sets, exhausted showrunners, crew members holding the entire production together, and the internet losing its mind over ChatGPT in the writers’ room, this doc raises as many questions as it answers. Is the behind-the-scenes story more compelling than the finale itself? Did the Duffer Brothers try to please everyone — and end up pleasing no one? And why does the Upside Down feel less like a place and more like a logistical nightmare? We dig into what worked, what didn’t, and why One Last Adventure might be the most honest look at Stranger Things yet. Also available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Oscar nominations dropped — unfortunately, so did everything else.We talk awards season reactions, missing movies, flu recovery, a late-night ER visit, and why sometimes real life completely derails movie discourse. It’s not polished.It’s not organized.It’s extremely honest. Full Patreon chaos on Thumb War. Like, subscribe, and let us know what you think. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re heading back to Westeros. On this episode of Thumb War, we review the premiere of HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the latest Game of Thrones prequel based on George R. R. Martin’s Dunk & Egg stories. We talk first impressions, performances, tone, and whether this stripped-down take on Westeros is a smart pivot—or a missed opportunity. Is this the Thrones comeback fans have been waiting for? Or just another spinoff riding on legacy? Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James Cameron doubles down with Avatar: Fire and Ash, delivering jaw-dropping visuals, new Na’vi factions, and a full-on 3D assault on the senses. On Thumb War, JD and Rachel debate whether Fire and Ash is the strongest Avatar yet, or proof that the franchise might finally be testing its limits. From villainous tribes and uneasy alliances to spiritual world-building and technological obsession, we break down what works, what doesn’t, and why you absolutely need to see this one in theaters. Spoilers ahead. Eyeballs may need a recovery day. Ad-free episodes + bonus content on Patreon: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Housemaid (2025) Is Trashy, Twisty, and Kind of a Blast This week on Thumb War, JD and Rachel review The Housemaid (2025), the glossy erotic thriller starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried. Directed by Paul Feig and based on the novel by Frieda McFadden, it’s packed with twists, bad decisions, and big “turn your brain off” energy. Is it smart? Not really. Is it entertaining? Absolutely. We spoil everything, debate the logic (or lack thereof), compare it to classic 90s thrillers, and agree on one thing: this movie knows exactly what it is. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Josh Safdie turns ping pong into pure anxiety cinema with Marty Supreme (2025) — a fictionalized sports biopic packed with unlikable characters, outrageous casting, and relentless momentum. On this episode of Thumb War, Jason and Rachel unpack why Marty Supreme works so well: from Kevin O’Leary’s scene-stealing villain turn to Timothée Chalamet’s desperate, pride-driven performance, the film’s Oscar-worthy casting, needle drops, and one hell of a final match. If you like Safdie chaos, uncomfortable sports movies, or films where everyone is kind of terrible, this one’s for you. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Upside Down closes for good — and it gets weird on the way out. On this episode of Thumb War, Jason and Rachel review Stranger Things Episodes 5–8, aka the series finale. We dig into what works, what absolutely doesn’t, and why a finale that’s often frustrating still manages to land emotionally. From baffling monster choices and zero-stakes action to genuinely touching character farewells, this is a deep dive into an ending that’s messy, modern, nostalgic, and oddly effective. Spoilers throughout. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Thumb War, we take on Christy (2025), the true-story boxing biopic chronicling the rise — and near-destruction — of trailblazing fighter Christy Martin. Sydney Sweeney delivers a ferocious performance in a film that doesn’t flinch from the realities of domestic abuse, control, and isolation, while still honouring Christy’s resilience and legacy. A tough watch. A necessary one. Big thumbs up. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we finally get around to tackling Bugonia (2025), Yorgos Lanthimos’ strange, funny, disturbing sci-fi thriller about conspiracy thinking, corporate power, and what happens when the paranoia might actually be right. Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons deliver two of the best performances of the year in a movie that demands to be seen before it’s discussed. Go in blind. Then come back and argue with us. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re revisiting Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) — the Star Wars movie everyone shrugged at… and maybe shouldn’t have. JD, Rachel and Jeshua break down why Ron Howard’s takeover actually works, why Alden Ehrenreich nails a younger Han Solo, and why Donald Glover’s Lando deserves his own cinematic future. From pure fan service to sharp dialogue and surprisingly great casting, Solo feels better now than it did on release. Was this movie a victim of Star Wars fatigue? Or did audiences just miss the point? Spoiler alert: we’re firmly on Team Solo. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We start with a sad goodbye to Cosmo — a very good, very food-motivated boy — and somehow end up talking about frat houses at sunrise, parental panic spirals, and why Quentin Tarantino absolutely deserves to catch a few strays. Along the way: Saying goodbye to a beloved dog (and why doing it at home mattered) Why tracking apps are a gateway to full-blown anxiety Actors we know are “good” but still don’t like Dubai chocolate discourse (yes, again) This is the kind of episode that only works off-feed — looser, longer, more honest, and way more chaotic. If you’ve ever wondered what Thumb War sounds like before we tighten things up for public consumption… this is it. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The finale of It: Welcome to Derry is here, and JD and Rachel have… thoughts. In this Thumb War episode, we recap and react to Episode 8 — a finale stuffed with Pennywise theatrics, confusing lore, magic solutions, timeline gymnastics, and zero interest in explaining itself. We debate what works, what absolutely doesn’t, and why filming this in Canada without Pennywise on skates should be a criminal offense. If you love horror vibes, messy finales, and yelling “WHY?” at your TV, this one’s for you. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Thumb War, we revisit Bad Santa (2003) — Terry Zwigoff’s filthy, funny, and surprisingly tender Christmas classic. Jason & Rachel dig into the Director’s Cut vs the Theatrical version, studio interference, and why Billy Bob Thornton’s Willie T. Soke somehow becomes one of the strangest “found family” characters in holiday movie history. Along the way, we celebrate: Bernie Mac & John Ritter’s perfect comic chemistry Zwigoff’s anti-sentimental worldview Why this movie still works — and why it probably wouldn’t get made today A holiday staple in this house. Not safe for work. Definitely not safe for kids. Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Thumb War, we’re deep into Stranger Things Season 5, breaking down Episodes 3 and 4 — The Turnbow Trap and The Sorcerer. We talk Frank Darabont’s direction, the Upside Down’s increasingly flexible rules, Hopper going full action hero, and whether the show’s massive cast is finally working against itself. Plus: Karen Wheeler MVP discourse, Joyce complaints, Erica chaos, and a few extremely dumb (but fun) theories. Spoilers throughout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 7 Had Us Yelling at the TV | Welcome to Derry Review In this episode of Thumb War, we review Welcome to Derry Episode 7 (2025) — an hour of television that somehow delivers peak Pennywise and peak frustration at the same time. We talk: Why the Pennywise stage performance works so well Andy Muschietti’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it organ-grinder cameo The Black Spot fire, emotional shortcuts, and broken horror logic When tragedy feels earned… and when it absolutely doesn’t If you’re wondering whether Welcome to Derry is sticking the landing — or quietly falling apart — Episode 7 gives us plenty to argue about. Email us → [email protected] Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode 6 of Welcome to Derry finally feels like the show hitting full stride. On this episode of Thumb War, we break down the darkest chapter yet — from Pennywise’s unsettling origin story to Ingrid’s role in feeding the horror beneath Derry. Jason and Rachel debate the black-and-white flashbacks, the show’s obsession with daddy issues, and whether this episode recontextualizes everything we’ve seen so far. If you’ve been waiting for Welcome to Derry to fully deliver on its promise, Episode 6 might be the turning point. Spoilers ahead for Episode 6. Email us → [email protected] Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JD and Rachel return to the Upside Down to recap Stranger Things Season 5, Episodes 1 & 2 — and yes, we’re spoiling everything. We talk Will’s nightmare opening, the “is that CGI or a PS5 cutscene?” debate, the Dustin/Lucas/Steve dynamics, Robin’s Pretty in Pink broadcast, Jonathan vs. Steve (again), the baffling obstacle course sequence, Holly’s shocking growth spurt, Joyce catching heat, Murray being the delivery man for every important plot point, and the possible real shape of Season 5. Subscribe for more TV breakdowns, new series reviews, and chaotic movie talk every week on Thumb War. Email us → [email protected] Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JD & Rachel fire up the hyperdrive for a deep-dive review of Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith — joined by special guest Jeshua Kidd, Jedi Master and all-around Star Wars encyclopedia. We break down the fall of Anakin Skywalker, the tragedy of Order 66, why Ewan McGregor is acting circles around everyone, and how the film has aged two decades later. Plus: favorite moments, tiny details we never noticed, and which scenes STILL give us goosebumps. New to Thumb War? We review movies, TV, and all things pop culture — with bad jokes, bold opinions, and occasional dog cameos. Subscribe, rate, review, and check out our Patreon for bonus content! Email us → [email protected] Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes + bonus shows: http://bit.ly/44Mo8xU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Derry Episode 5 finally gives us what everyone’s been begging for: Pennywise. In the sewer. In full nightmare mode. In this Thumb War recap, we break down everything from the genuinely awesome parts — Bill Skarsgård’s terrifying Pennywise reveal, the triple-decker teeth, the contortions, the hallucinatory sewer sequences — to the parts that made us feel like we were taking crazy pills. Including: • The indigenous prophecy lore dump that explains why everyone in Derry acts insane • “There’s something in the water — clown shit” (not our words, the episode’s) • The soldiers making the absolute worst tactical decisions in TV history • A major character death that makes ZERO spatial sense • Whether Matty’s emo sewer glow-up actually worked • Our ongoing fight with the YouTube algorithm thanks to… certain phrases • Why the acting and production design continue to be the saving grace of this series This is a spoiler-filled, chaotic, honest recap of Episode 5 — the good, the bad, and the “why is everyone in this show so dumb?” Full transcript moments include Pennywise illusions, failed plans, secret shards, hallucinations, and multiple “are you serious?” plot beats. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.