What's Our Verdict Reviews

This podcast episode delves into the cinematic missteps of "Jupiter Ascending," a film that exemplifies the phenomenon of unintended humor despite its earnest intentions. We assert that the film, laden with ambitious concepts and a star-studded cast, ultimately succumbs to a plethora of narrative and casting misjudgments that render it both perplexing and unintentionally amusing. The discussion navigates the film's failings, partic...

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the cinematic exploration of the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," a motion picture released in 1991 that has garnered a significant amount of both admiration and criticism over the years. We delve into the juxtaposition of the film's intended dramatic narrative against the unintentional comedic elements that have emerged, particularly through the performance of Alan Ric...

The primary focus of our discourse delves into the cinematic creation known as "Waterworld," a film that, despite its ambitious narrative premise of an aquatic apocalypse, ultimately falters under the weight of its own execution. Within this discussion, I express a profound incredulity regarding the persistent notion that this film possesses any inherent merit, given its status as one of the most notorious cinematic failures in his...

The primary focus of this podcast episode revolves around an in-depth analysis of the film "Identity," a psychological thriller that intricately explores themes of dissociative identity disorder. Set against the backdrop of a tempestuous rainstorm in a remote Nevada motel, the narrative unfolds as ten strangers find themselves ensnared in a deadly game of survival, with each character becoming increasingly aware of the mysterious f...

This podcast episode delves deeply into the film "Serendipity," a romantic comedy that examines the complexities of fate and love. We, the hosts, express our appreciation for John Cusack's performance and the film's charming narrative, despite acknowledging its numerous implausibilities. Throughout our discussion, we highlight the engaging chemistry between the characters and the film's ability to evoke nostalgia for love and conne...

The primary focus of this episode centers on the film "Better Off Dead," a cinematic piece that, despite its comedic intent, elicits a spectrum of reactions from its viewers. As we delve into the narrative, we explore the absurdity and randomness intertwined within the storyline, wherein the protagonist grapples with rejection and a series of misadventures that provoke both laughter and contemplation. We examine the film's structur...

This episode delves into the cinematic exploration of the film "Say Anything," a work that has garnered both acclaim and critique over the years. We engage in a rigorous examination of the film's narrative, particularly highlighting its central theme: the juxtaposition of romantic idealism against the backdrop of familial dysfunction. Our discourse reflects a spectrum of perspectives, as we navigate the intricate dynamics between t...

This podcast episode delves into the cinematic exploration of "World War Z," a film that portrays a former United Nations employee's harrowing quest to halt a zombie pandemic. While I appreciate the film's ambition and unique depiction of fast-moving zombies, I express reservations regarding its narrative coherence and CGI execution. My co-hosts and I engage in a rigorous analysis, highlighting the film's divergence from its litera...

The focus of this podcast episode is a critical examination of the film "A River Runs Through It," directed by Robert Redford and featuring Brad Pitt. We delve into the intricate dynamics between the two brothers portrayed in the film, exploring how their distinct personalities and life choices reflect broader themes of familial expectation and personal rebellion. Throughout our discussion, we express varying opinions on the film's...

The focal point of this podcast episode is a profound analysis of the cinematic masterpiece "Legends of the Fall," released in 1995 and featuring notable performances by Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins. We delve into the intricate narrative that intertwines themes of love, loss, and the haunting specter of war, as it explores the tumultuous relationship among three brothers and their father in the rugged wilderness of Montana. Throug...

This podcast episode delves into the cinematic experience of "Ocean's Thirteen," a film that exemplifies the blend of humor and heist intricacies inherent in the Ocean's franchise. The discussion opens with a nostalgic reflection on the late Bernie Mac, whose comedic prowess is sorely missed, prompting an exploration of the film's characters and their relationships. We analyze the film's narrative structure, noting its similarities...

This podcast episode delves into the cinematic masterpiece "Seven," directed by David Fincher and featuring notable performances from Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. Throughout our discourse, we explore the intricate narrative that revolves around two detectives as they pursue a serial killer who employs the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. The episode highlights the profound psychological implications of the film, particular...

This podcast episode delves into the intricacies of the film "Nocturnal Animals," a cinematic exploration that intertwines themes of revenge, regret, and the haunting nature of artistic expression. We grapple with our initial reactions to the film's provocative opening, which sets an unsettling tone that persists throughout the narrative. The discussion navigates the layered storytelling and character development, particularly focu...

In this episode, we delve into the film "Sunshine Cleaning," an independent cinematic endeavor that intertwines the themes of familial bonds and the complexities of navigating personal trauma through the lens of an unconventional profession: crime scene cleanup. The narrative follows a mother and her sister as they embark on a journey to establish a biohazard removal service, a decision driven by the desire to secure a better futur...

This podcast episode meticulously examines the film "American Hustle," a cinematic endeavor that seamlessly intertwines themes of deception, ambition, and chaos. The discussion is ignited by the film's exceptional ensemble cast, featuring notable performances by Christian Bale, Amy Adams, and Bradley Cooper, which contribute to its multifaceted narrative. We delve into the intricate dynamics between the characters, particularly hig...

The focal point of our discourse in this episode revolves around the film "Enchanted," a cinematic endeavor that intricately weaves elements of fairy tale and modernity. We delve into the juxtaposition of humor and narrative structure, examining how certain scenes, particularly the restaurant scene, provide comic relief despite their apparent detachment from the overarching story. Both Alec and I reflect on our personal experiences...

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the nuanced examination of the film "The American President," a cinematic work that intertwines romance with political drama. We delve into the complexities of the film's narrative, discussing its portrayal of a widowed U.S. President engaging in an illicit relationship with an environmental lobbyist. This film, penned by the esteemed Aaron Sorkin and directed by Rob Reiner,...

This episode delves into the cinematic exploration of "Patriot Games," a film that encapsulates the tumultuous intersection of personal and political conflict through the lens of CIA analyst Jack Ryan. We commence with an examination of the film's narrative framework, which, while engaging, reveals significant pacing issues that detract from the overall viewing experience. The discourse further extends to a critical evaluation of t...

Our focus this episode is the cinematic exploration of the film "Miracle," which recounts the remarkable triumph of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team against the formidable Soviet squad. We delve into the nuances of this historical event, examining the intricate dynamics of coaching under Herb Brooks, portrayed by Kurt Russell, and the profound implications of such a victory on national pride and identity. The conversation traverse...