In this episode, the hosts don their vibranium wingsuits and dive headfirst into the ever-evolving Marvel Cinematic Universe. With special guests Matt Baughman and Steve Custer, they tackle the big questions: Can "Captain America 4" bring back the glory days of the MCU? Is Sam Wilson ready to fill Steve Rogers' boots? Expect deep (but not too deep) analysis, wild speculation, and more than a few heroic one-liners as the team debates Marvel’s future. If you're a Marvel fan, a casual viewer, or just someone who enjoys hearing grown adults argue about capes, this one's for you. Expect deep (but not too deep) analysis, wild speculation, and more than a few heroic one-liners as the team debates Marvel’s future. If you're a Marvel fan, a casual viewer, or just someone who enjoys hearing grown adults argue about capes, this one's for you.

And they're back! What happens when our world heritage is in danger? There's only one man who can save it! Enter the UN's secret weapon: a bitter hero who loves humanity so much he'd kill us all to save it. But first, why does Russian sci-fi embrace dirt and suffering and what's the problem with the 3 Body Problem? Other than the astrophysics problem in the title, obviously. I'm realizing that's an awkward way to phrase it. I mean the show has a fundamental problem but I don't mean fundamental like the building blocks of the Universe, so less fundamental than that but pretty basic to the idea of the show. Actually, that kind of puts it all in perspective. Who cares about eight episodes of a streaming show when you hold it up against the sheer scale and complexity of the Universe? And, oh god, if the show doesn't matter, what about a podcast episode about the show?! What are we even doing with our lives? Anyway, enjoy!

In an uncharacteristically focused episode, our host dives headfirst into Deadpool & Wolverine and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Joined by frequent guest and friend of the show, Matt Baughman, and new guest, Variant Steve (Custer), the gang dissects Deadpool 3, starring the ever-sarcastic Ryan Reynolds, and the future of Marvel's cinematic landscape. Don't panic – the first 30 minutes are SPOILER FREE. And then we ruin everything. What happened?! What does it all mean?! Did Deadpool un-f*ck the MCU?! Why should Matt stop eating Swedish fish?! Buckle up for a chaotic ride through Deadpool 3 and the MCU with the madness that is Don't Encourage Us. Check out Steve Custer's work at Starwipe Films and Matthew Baughman's here. Then stalk your celebrity prey online at @spidey_steve and @mattybaughs on Instagram.

They're back and in an unprecedented episode, our hosts go full ramble, bouncing from topic to topic, free of the hefty bonds of logic or theme. They kick off with a critical drive-by of "The Tourist," exploring its use of flashback and dream sequence to hold an audience. Next, they delve into the emerging skill of crafting effective prompts for AI, offering valuable insights for lazy tech enthusiasts and creatives alike. The discussion then shifts to the speechless horror of "No One Can Save You" and the soundstage exorcism of "Late Night with the Devil." Film and dystopia intersect as the hosts revisit the timeless classic "1984," exploring the very real horror of existential deconstruction. Finally, they wrap up with an examination of superpowers and gender in fan-favorite "X-Men '97." Should all this delicious content be cut into 25 YouTube shorts? Absolutely! Is the crew of Don't Encourage Us putting in that kind of time and dedication? Ha ha ha.

Brace yourselves as the intrepid hosts of Don't Encourage Us dive into the profound themes and stunning visuals of Godzilla Minus One (2023). This week, they explore the humanity, honor, and redemption depicted in this latest installment of the Godzilla franchise. Was it just another monster movie, or did it bring something new to the table? They discuss how the film compares to other Godzilla movies, its special effects, and the emotional depth of its characters. Plus, they touch on their recent reads, including the Three-Body Problem series, Outlaws and more.. Get ready for a deep dive into fiction, history, and the nature of monsters - you know, just real quick.

In this in-depth episode, the hosts dive into a trio of intriguing series and films. First up is the critically acclaimed Danish series The Killing (2011), where they delve into its gripping storytelling, political intrigue, and the rules of remakes in Hollywood. Next, they turn their attention to Netflix's Rebel Moon (2023), Zack Snyder's epic space opera. They dissect the film's ambitious scope, writing, and Snyder's career dilemma. The conversation then shifts to the phenomenon of #Too2ndScreen, discussing how dual-screening is changing the way we consume and interact with media. They explore the pros and cons of this modern viewing habit and its impact on advertising. Finally, they explore Amazon's highly anticipated Fallout (2024), examining how the post-apocalyptic video game world is brought to life on screen. They dive into the series' take on the classic hero's journey, its complex characters, and which character is the scarecrow.

Strap in as the hosts of Don't Encourage Us, joined by special guest Matt Baughman, dive into the gritty world of Roadhouse. They’ll compare the iconic 1989 classic starring Patrick Swayze with the modern reboot featuring Jake Gyllenhaal. Did the reboot live up to the original's legacy, or did it miss the mark? Get ready for a lively discussion on bar fights, character charisma, and the evolution of action films - all wrapped up in classic Roadhouse style.

Join us for a raw, unpolished episode of Don't Encourage Us as we dive into the vault of never-before-heard clips! This week, we're bringing you a mixed bag of outtakes, idiocy, and embarrassing moments that are too good to stay buried. First, get ready to cringe and laugh at us as we revisit our chaotic review of the 2008 M. Night Shyamalan Scifi/Thriller, The Happening. These unaired gems feature our host's desperate attempts to keep up with his guests and the bewildering thriller. Was Mark Wahlberg's performance secretly brilliant? Is this podcast doomed to fail before it even begins? Listen to clips from one of the episodes that convinced our host he needed a permanent co-host to manage this nonsense. Next, we switch gears as Steve joins the show full time and our hosts discuss the future of Don't Encourage Us. What should this podcast really be about? Should we aim for highbrow commentary or embrace the chaos? Listen in as the hosts debate their vision, mission, and the questionable cocktails that fuel their creativity. Finally, indulge in some reality TV revelations as we share clips from an episode dedicated to the glitzy, scandalous world of reality shows. Technical problems prevented this episode from airing but sample bits of our hosts pitching their own reality show ideas and get a taste of what might of been.

Gather around for another Story Break, everyone! This week the hosts cooked up a terrifying concept: helpless residents of an apartment building caught in a war between two horrific entities. Will they band together to uncover their tormentors before the building becomes their tomb? Knowing our hosts, probably not. But first, J.K. Rowling's detective series, Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis, Edgar Wright's The Running Man remake, Ridley Scott's Gladiator 2, Amazon's Fallout series, and AIs contribution to the end of the Information Age.

In the latest episode of "Don't Encourage," our brave hosts delve into the unnerving world of the 2010 South Korean horror thriller "I Saw the Devil." The discussion begins with a personal update from one of our hosts about At Home, the intriguing book by Bill Bryson about the history of the household. The conversation then shifts to the podcast's main subject. Our hosts dissect the film's intense narrative, focusing on the chilling cat-and-cat game between a determined CIA agent and a merciless serial killer. They explore the film's complex themes of vengeance and morality, highlighted by the brutal tactics employed by the protagonist, blurring the lines between hero and villain. The hosts commend the film for its gripping performances and masterful direction, though they critique its graphic violence, suggesting subtler ways to convey horror that might enhance the viewer's experience without resorting to explicit imagery. Throughout the discussion, the duo maintains their characteristic blend of deep analysis and light-hearted banter, making for an engaging exploration of a dark but fascinating cinematic piece.

Brace yourselves as the hosts of Don't Encourage Us get pulled into the conspiracies, complex calculations, and chaotic brilliance of Cixin Liu's sci-fi masterpiece, The Three-Body Problem (2008), and its Netflix adaptation, 3 Body Problem (2024). Was it a faithful adaptation or did the wild world of Trisolaris get lost in translation? Get ready for a deep dive into fiction writing, AI, the nature of humanity, and the ultimate end of the Universe - you know, just real quick.

Bad news, your jury summons has arrived. Fulfill your civic duty and sit in judgment of 2003’s The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, starring Sean Connery. Is it a masterpiece or a piece of sh%t? Our humble podcast awaits your verdict. But first, has anyone ever told you that you look like Megan Fox?

Buckle up your space helmets and adjust your dials as we embark on a thrilling journey to the 1950s radio phenomenon – Dimension X! Today's mission: to boldly explore the origins of modern sci-fi and the anxieties of the Atomic Age. But first, shake your fist at Amazon Prime Video and pass judgment on Kang the Cancelled in this thrilling adventure of Don't Encourage Us - brought to you by Swanson TV Dinners.

Back for part 2, the crew of Don't Encourage Us and guest star Matt Baughman dissect 9 of the whopping 10 Academy Awards nominees for Best Picture of 2024 - so you don't have to. Join in as they discuss the cultural impact and cinematic execution of Barbie, the Oscars' relevance, the politics of Oscar campaigning, the stellar performances of Oppenheimer, and the ups and downs of 90% of the top darlings of Hollywood's elite. Which one didn't they see? Well, haha, there's only one way to...it was the one with Nazis living next door to a concentration camp.

In this dynamic episode of Don't Encourage Us, our always delightful hosts chat with theater star Matt Baughman about his latest performance in The Play That Goes Wrong, streaming shows Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Beef, restaurant entrepreneurship, the Paramount sale, and the Apple Vision Pro. The trio debates the potential societal impact of having computers on our faces, recalling the fate of Google Glass and speculating on the future of human-computer interaction. The discussion takes a serious turn with Neuralink's human trials, raising ethical questions about technological advancement versus privacy. This episode offers a whirlwind tour through the intersections of culture, technology, and ethics, all delivered with the show's usual acerbic wit and insightful man-splaining.

Journey into suspense with our hosts as they delve into the shadowy corners of Alfred Hitchcock's espionage thriller "Notorious." With their characteristic blend of wit and deep analysis, they unpack the film's complex interplay of romance and deceit, set against the backdrop of post-World War II tensions. Through their lively discussion, the duo brings to light the film's nuanced portrayal of loyalty and betrayal, highlighting the exceptional performances that bring its conflicted characters to life. They share insights into the film's groundbreaking cinematography and suspenseful storytelling, hallmark traits of Hitchcock's directorial genius. Alongside their film critique, the episode meanders through a rich tapestry of topics, from intriguing Netflix series to the personal ventures of the hosts, painting a picture of their diverse interests and engaging personalities. Whether you're a Hitchcock aficionado or simply in search of an entertaining and informative podcast episode, this episode promises an engaging deep dive into "Notorious" and its lasting impact on the thriller genre.

Indiana Jones is back! Join Indy, Helena, Jurgen, and the hosts of Don't Encourage Us as they travel the globe for clues to the location of the missing half of the Dial of Destiny! Is this the last we'll ever see of Harrison Ford's Dr. Jones? Will Phoebe Waller-Bridge pick up the torch? Is Mutt trapped in a tiger cage in Vietnam? For the answers to none of these questions and more, check out this week's episode of the only show that properly accounts for continental drift. But first: Follow The Chalk Line... --------------------------------We Spoil Everything-----------------------------------

In this episode of "Don't Encourage Us," the hosts dive into the whimsical world of the fictional Wes Anderson film, "Asteroid City." Taking inspiration from the distinctive style of Anderson's cinematic universe, the hosts explore the intricacies of the film's quirky characters, meticulous set designs, and emotionally resonant storytelling. With their signature blend of humor and insightful commentary, the podcasters dissect the film's unique aesthetic choices, discussing how Anderson's idiosyncratic vision manifests in the creation of "Asteroid." From the carefully curated soundtrack to the meticulously crafted symmetry within each frame, the hosts analyze the film's every detail, offering listeners a delightful journey through the imaginary cosmos of Wes Anderson's imagination. Whether you're a devoted Anderson enthusiast or a casual film buff, this episode of "Don't Encourage Us" promises an engaging exploration of "Asteroid" and its place in the director's illustrious filmography.

In another engaging episode of Don't Encourage Us, our bold hosts traverse a landscape of real-world oddities and their fictional possibilities. They explore the ecological anomaly of Pablo Escobar's hippos in Colombia, the ethical quandaries of CRISPR gene-editing, and the implications of genetically modified mosquitoes in disease control. The discussion also covers delivery truck heists and the peculiar intelligence of killer whales, blending each topic with imaginative narratives. TLDR: A journey through strange realities, from roaming hippos and high-tech mosquitoes to unexpected animal behaviors and daring heists.

In a stimulating odyssey through cinematic and ethical dimensions, our fearless hosts dissect 'Paradise', the German film filled with rich moral quandaries. Delving into the film's portrayal of life as a tradable commodity, they contrast it with 'Ballerina', a Korean action thriller, exploring societal and psychological undercurrents. This episode offers deep, thoughtful analysis and engaging discussions, examining the intricate themes and speculative aspects of these diverse narratives. Our hosts' fervent interest in ethical dilemmas in fiction guides the audience through a compelling exploration of the profound implications and lasting impacts of these thought-provoking films TLDR: This episode is a dive into what happens when life's value is measured in currency, not moments.