🕰️ Fire up the time machine — the Mirror Movie Universe brothers are back, and this time we're landing in 1971 to revisit the bold, bizarre, and surprisingly emotional third entry in the legendary sci-fi saga: Escape from the Planet of the Apes.
In this episode, we dive into everything that made this movie a cult classic:
🐒 Cornelius and Zira steal the show
🍼 Ape pregnancy becomes a political crisis
💥 The ending? Darker than expected…
We love the shift in tone, the clever reversal of the original premise, and the strong performances — but that doesn’t mean it's perfect. If we were time-traveling producers, here’s what we’d tweak:
Could the social commentary have hit harder?
Did the pacing drop mid-film?
Was the ending the right kind of tragic… or just grim?
Join us as we rewrite Escape from the Planet of the Apes in a way that honors the heart of the story — while adding just enough movie magic to make it even better.
🎙️ Packed with nostalgia, film geekery, and alternate timeline chaos, this episode is a must-listen for fans of classic sci-fi and bold storytelling.
👍 Like, subscribe, and join the Mirror Movie Universe for more time-traveling film fixes every week!
🚨Warning: psychic mutants ahead! The Mirror Movie Universe brothers are back in the time-traveling director’s chair — this time landing in 1970 to fix the wild, weird, and surprisingly dark sequel: Beneath the Planet of the Apes.
In this episode, we recap the insane plot, salute the bold choices, and ask:
Why kill off Taylor so early?
Were the underground mutants too much... or not enough?
Did the ending really have to go nuclear?
With love and laughter, we break down what works (hello, mind-control mutants!) and what definitely doesn’t (we’re looking at you, rushed rewrites and studio interference). Then we offer our alternate version of the movie — the one we would’ve made if Hollywood had called us back in 1970.
Join us for:
🎬 Hot takes
🧠 Deep lore
💣 Exploding finales
👬 Brotherhood banter
This is Beneath the Planet of the Apes — reimagined, revised, and rewritten by time-traveling movie nerds who just want to make sci-fi a little smarter.
🔔 Subscribe to Mirror Movie Universe for more throwback film "fixes," movie debates, and retro cinema chaos every week.
00:00 - Intro
01:09 - Movie Recap
04:28 - What Dan Loves
06:32 - What Nate Loves
09:31 - Dan's Fix
13:46 - Nate's Fix
Strap in for a wild ride through time as the Mirror Movie Universe brothers "travel" back to 1968 to revisit one of the most iconic sci-fi films of all time — Planet of the Apes.In this cinematic time capsule episode, we break down what makes the original Planet of the Apes an enduring masterpiece — from Charlton Heston’s commanding presence to the groundbreaking prosthetics and that unforgettable twist ending. But let’s be honest... even great movies have a few bananas in the bunch 🍌So what would we fix if we had a DeLorean and a studio lot in 1968?Could Dr. Zaius have had more depth?Should the female characters have been given more to do?Was that final line really the best they could come up with?This is all done with love and respect for a classic that changed the landscape of science fiction — and left a permanent footprint in movie history.📺 Hit play, subscribe, and join the Mirror Movie Universe as we debate, joke, and dream our way through alternate timelines where everything’s the same... except just a little better.00:00 - Intro02:09 - Movie Recap09:43 - What Dan Loves13:29 - What Nate Loves15:57 - Dan's Fix19:07 - Nate's Fix
Is Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull really the worst Indy film—or is there something salvageable beneath the CGI monkeys and aliens?
In this episode of Mirror Movie Universe, I'm joined by author Ryan Borchers (his new novel Rook drops July 1! https://www.amazon.com/Rook-Novel-Ryan-Borchers/dp/B0F42BQVKW) to dig into the most controversial film in the Indiana Jones franchise. We discuss:
🧢 What actually works in Crystal Skull
📉 Which movie is truly the weakest: Temple of Doom or Crystal Skull
🧙♂️ Who (if anyone) should ever take over from Harrison Ford
🛠️ And most importantly… what small change we’d make in 2008 to save the film forever (yes, we time-travel for this one)
Whether you're a lifelong Indy fan or a skeptical viewer, this is the conversation Crystal Skull deserved in 2008.
👇 Drop a comment: What's your fix for Crystal Skull?
🎧 Full podcast episodes every week — hit Subscribe for more deep dives!
#IndianaJones #KingdomOfTheCrystalSkull #IndianaJonesPodcast #RyanBorchers #FixingCrystalSkull #MoviePodcast #HarrisonFord #IndianaJones5 #TempleOfDoom #IndianaJonesRecast #MirrorMovieUniverse #TimeTravelFix #IndyMovies #FilmAnalysis
In this episode of Mirror Movie Universe, we dive deep into the world of Harry Potter with fantasy creator and guest Brian Keenan. Together, we tackle the biggest questions in the Wizarding World:
Should Harry have stayed dead to fulfill his Christ-like arc?
Was Snape a true hero—or something darker?
Did the movies honor the books, or stray too far?
Why did Harry Potter succeed where Divergent and Narnia failed?
What should the upcoming HBO reboot avoid—and get right?
What stories we'd produce next: Hogwarts Founders, American magic schools, or the next generation?
If you're a fan of fantasy, deep lore discussions, and the future of one of the most iconic franchises in pop culture, this is a must-listen.
Harry Potter, Wizarding World, Snape, Harry Potter reboot, HBO Harry Potter, fantasy podcast, book to movie adaptation, Hogwarts, J.K. Rowling, Wizarding World future, YA fantasy, Mirror Movie Universe, Harry Potter podcast, movie adaptations, next generation Harry Potter, Hogwarts Founders
🔥 64 ENTER. ONLY ONESURVIVES.
Welcome to the most epic Marvel showdown on Spotify — where two brothersgo head-to-head in a full-on March Madness-style bracket to decide thegreatest Marvel film or TV show of all time!
This long-form battle is packed with twists, debates, hottakes, nostalgia, arguments, betrayals, and a final winner that may breakthe internet (or at least the comment section).
🕷️ Will Spider-Man 2swing to victory?
🛡️Can Winter Soldier stay strong till the end?
🌀Does No Way Home bend the multiverse to its will?
🧬Or will a dark horse like X-Men: First Class shock everyone?
With matchups from all across the Marvel universe — MCU,X-Men, animated classics, Netflix hits, and beyond — no title is safe and noopinion goes unchallenged.
🏀 Full TournamentIncludes:
👀 You won’t believe whomakes it to the end.
💬Sound off with YOUR bracket picks in the comments — or roast ours!
📲Like & subscribe for future tournaments (DC, Star Wars, animated series?You decide.)
#MarvelMadness #UltimateMarvelBracket #BestMarvelMovie#MCUTournament #MarvelMarchMadness
Marvel,MCU, Marvel Madness, Marvel bracket, Marvel March Madness, Spider-Man,Avengers, Winter Soldier, Logan, Xmen First Class, No Way Home, Marvel ranking,superhero debate, best Marvel movie, full Marvel tournament, Marvel showdown,comic book movies, long form video, nerd debate, Marvel vs Marvel, Marvel fans,cinematic universe, MCU longform
🧙♂️ Is this the perfect ending to the Harry Potter saga… or just one spell away?In this magical episode of Mirror Movie Universe, your favorite time-traveling movie producers (aka two mischievous brothers with strong opinions and zero chill) return to 2011 to catch an early screening of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 — before the rest of the world sees it.⚡ They recap the epic showdown between Harry and Voldemort🪄 Debate the emotional payoff (or lack thereof) of key character arcs🔥 And each make one small “fix” to create the mirror universe version of the finale they wish we gotWould you rework the final duel? Add one more twist? Fix that epilogue? Or keep it exactly as is?Whether you’re a Potterhead, a casual fan, or someone who just enjoys watching two brothers argue passionately about wands, this one’s for you.💬 Tell us YOUR Deathly Hallows hot takes — and which fix you’d send through the Time-Turner.🌀 Welcome to Mirror Movie Universe — where movie history gets a magical rewrite.00:00 - Intro01:35 - Movie Recap13:10 - What Dan Loves17:58 - What Brian Loves24:20 - Dan's Fix29:48 - Brian's Fix
In this episode of the Mirror Movie Universe, Dan and Brian tackle the beginning of the end... of the Harry Potter movies. Does the Deathly Hallows (Part 1) get it right? What needs to be fixed?00:00 - Intro04:37 - Movie Recap16:55 - What Dan Loves22:23 - What Brian Loves28:49 - Dan's Fix30:55 - Brian's FixWelcome to our latest podcast episode, where we dive deep into the wizarding world with a thoughtful review and critique of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1! This episode is packed with all the magic, nostalgia, and surprises you'd expect as we explore what makes this film one of the most emotionally charged entries in the Harry Potter franchise—and what could have made it even better.Deathly Hallows Part 1 is a unique and pivotal chapter in the saga, featuring Harry, Ron, and Hermione on their dangerous journey to destroy Voldemort’s Horcruxes and protect the wizarding world. It's a darker, more mature film compared to its predecessors, and we’re here to explore what works, what doesn't, and the key moments that have stayed with us since its release.In this episode, your hosts share what they absolutely LOVE about the film, from the incredible performances by the cast, especially Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, to the breathtaking visuals that bring J.K. Rowling’s world to life. We’ll dive into the intense emotional moments, the high-stakes action sequences, and the unforgettable scenes that made us feel like we were right there alongside Harry and his friends, battling for survival. Whether it’s the heart-pounding chase in the opening sequence or the heart-wrenching scene at the Burrow, we’ll discuss what moments had us captivated and why they remain some of the most iconic in the franchise.But as much as we love Deathly Hallows Part 1, no movie is perfect. We’ll also be offering our honest critiques and discussing what we’d change if we had the power to cast a spell and alter the film. From pacing issues that some fans felt dampened the tension, to scenes that we felt could have been expanded upon, we’re not afraid to get into the nitty-gritty and share our thoughts on what could have made this film an even greater cinematic experience. We’ll also talk about the film’s departure from the original book, examining the choices made by the filmmakers to condense a massive storyline into two films and whether those decisions ultimately paid off.Throughout the episode, we invite you to join the conversation! Do you agree with our love for certain moments, or would you have done things differently? Are there scenes or characters that we didn’t talk about that you feel deserve more attention? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to share your own thoughts on the film!Whether you're a lifelong Harry Potter fan or just revisiting the series, this episode is sure to spark a conversation. So, grab your wand, settle in, and join us as we dive into one of the most complex and beloved films in the Harry Potter series. If you’re a fan of Harry, Ron, Hermione, and all things magical, you won’t want to miss this episode!Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss any of our future in-depth reviews and discussions on your favorite movies, books, and pop culture moments. We can’t wait to share more with you!
Brian and Dan travel through time back to 2009! The last Harry Book's been released, and they're anxiously awaiting the sixth installment of the film franchise! What will they meddle with in the past? Only one way to find out!00:00 - Intro02:34 - Movie Recap07:31 - What Brian Loves14:43 - What Dan Loves19:29 - Debate the Burrows being burned24:36 - Brian's Fix30:56 - Dan's Fix
Welcome back, Potterheads! In today’s video, we’re taking a closer look at one of the most impactful films in the Harry Potter series—Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This review will focus on the brilliant performances of the cast and the visionary direction of David Yates, which helped elevate this movie into one of the fan favorites. Whether you're rewatching the film or experiencing it for the first time, this breakdown will offer fresh insights into the actors’ incredible work and how their portrayals shape the magic of the Wizarding World.The Cast: Bringing the Magic to LifeFirst, let’s talk about the heart of the movie – the actors. The ensemble cast in Half-Blood Prince delivers some of the most powerful performances in the franchise. Daniel Radcliffe, as Harry Potter, brings a deeper, more mature energy to the role. The emotional weight he carries in this film, especially in scenes dealing with Dumbledore’s death and his growing sense of responsibility, shows how far his portrayal of Harry has come. We'll dive into how Radcliffe masterfully handles the internal conflict within Harry, balancing his sense of duty with his personal struggles.Emma Watson as Hermione Granger proves once again why she’s the perfect fit for the role. In this film, Hermione’s emotional journey takes center stage, from her unspoken feelings for Ron to her worry about the war and her friends. Emma's ability to convey Hermione’s vulnerability and fierce loyalty is both subtle and stunning. We’ll break down how she makes her character's development feel natural, despite the chaos surrounding them.
Then there’s Rupert Grint, whose portrayal of Ron Weasley truly shines in Half-Blood Prince. Ron’s character faces a lot of personal growth, especially in his relationships with Hermione and his insecurities around his family. Rupert Grint brings both humor and heart to the role, effortlessly making Ron’s moments of jealousy and vulnerability relatable. His performance highlights Ron’s importance in Harry's life, even when he's not always at the center of the action.Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy gets his moment in the spotlight in this film, and it's arguably his best performance yet. As Draco grapples with the pressure to join Voldemort’s ranks, Felton brings a complex mix of fear, pride, and internal struggle to his character. We’ll dive into how this film turns Draco from a simple antagonist into someone you can empathize with.
Of course, Michael Gambon’s portrayal of Albus Dumbledore is a cornerstone of the film. Gambon brings warmth, wisdom, and a sense of tragic inevitability to Dumbledore’s final moments. His chemistry with Harry is key to this film’s emotional depth, and we’ll analyze how Gambon’s take on the character differs from previous portrayals while still staying true to Dumbledore’s essence.David Yates: The Visionary DirectorUnder the direction of David Yates, Half-Blood Prince achieves a darker, more emotionally resonant tone that sets it apart from the earlier films. Yates brilliantly balances the whimsical aspects of the Wizarding World with the increasing sense of danger and loss. His direction allows the actors to shine, making the personal stakes just as important as the larger battle against Voldemort.
With stellar performances from the cast and the exceptional direction by Yates, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince stands out as a true cinematic achievement. Don’t miss this deep dive into the characters and direction that made this movie a fan favorite. Hit that like button, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments below!
Dan welcomes back the resident fantasy film expert Brian to discuss the Harry Potter series. Kicking things off with the Sorcerer's Stone (or Philosopher's Stone if you're in good ole England) they celebrate the good in the first Harry Potter film, and then talk about what could have been done to make it better. It's not a hard concept to grasp, they're going to "fix it". 00:00 - Intro 02:32 - Movie Recap 11:13 - What Dan Loves 16:33 - What Brian Loves 22:10 - Dan's Fix 24:08 - Brian's Fix "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," the magical film that kicked off one of the most beloved franchises in modern cinema. Today, we'll dive into the incredible cast, the visionary director, and the imaginative mind behind it all, J.K. Rowling. The casting of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" was a monumental task, given the pressure to bring such iconic characters to life. At the heart of the film, we have Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter. Radcliffe, just eleven years old at the time, perfectly embodied the wonder, bravery, and occasional uncertainty of the young wizard. His performance laid a solid foundation for the character’s growth throughout the series. Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, as Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger respectively, were equally remarkable. Grint’s portrayal of Ron brought a perfect blend of humor and loyalty, making him an instant favorite among fans. Watson, on the other hand, delivered Hermione’s intelligence and assertiveness with grace, setting the stage for her evolution into one of the most formidable characters in the series. Veteran actors added gravitas to the cast. Richard Harris’s portrayal of Albus Dumbledore was filled with warmth and wisdom, capturing the essence of the beloved headmaster. Maggie Smith, as Professor McGonagall, brought a stern yet caring presence to the screen. Alan Rickman’s Severus Snape was enigmatic and captivating, hinting at the depth and complexity of the character that would unfold in later films. Chris Columbus was the director entrusted with the enormous task of translating J.K. Rowling’s rich and detailed world from page to screen. Columbus, known for his work on family-friendly films like "Home Alone" and "Mrs. Doubtfire," was an ideal choice for establishing the tone of the Harry Potter series. His direction ensured that the film remained faithful to the source material while making it accessible to both young audiences and adults. Columbus’s vision brought Hogwarts to life with remarkable attention to detail. The magical set designs, from the grandeur of the Great Hall to the coziness of Gryffindor common room, were meticulously crafted, creating an immersive experience for viewers. Columbus also succeeded in balancing the enchanting aspects of the story with its darker, more perilous elements, a crucial aspect of the Harry Potter universe. None of this would have been possible without J.K. Rowling, the mastermind behind the Harry Potter series. Rowling’s creation of the wizarding world, with its rich history, complex characters, and intricate plots, captivated readers around the globe. Her ability to weave together elements of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes made the story universally relatable and timeless. Rowling’s involvement in the film adaptation ensured that the movie stayed true to her vision. She worked closely with the filmmakers, providing insights and clarifications that helped maintain the authenticity of the story. Her approval of the cast and her collaboration with screenwriter Steve Kloves were instrumental in preserving the integrity of her work. In conclusion, "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone" stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of a talented cast, a visionary director, and an imaginative author. The film not only succeeded in bringing the magic of the books to the big screen but also laid the foundation for a cinematic journey that would enchant audiences for years to come.
Being the big Weird Al fans that we are, it was only a matter of time before we turned our attention to that Roku movie based on a fake trailer from Funny or Die. Yeah man, deep cuts. Join us as we celebrate the man, myth, and legend and try to "Fix" this absolute gem of a movie. It's WEIRD: The Al Yankovic story. Enjoy. 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - Movie Recap 09:14 - What Dan Loves 13:11 - What Nate Loves 15:38 - Dan's Fix 19:01 - Nate's Fix In this video review of "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story," we delve deep into the vibrant and eccentric cast that brings this biographical comedy-drama to life. This film, a satirical take on the life and career of the beloved parody artist "Weird Al" Yankovic, offers an all-star ensemble that brilliantly captures the humor and heart of its titular character. Leading the charge is Daniel Radcliffe, who takes on the challenging role of "Weird Al" himself. Known for his diverse roles post-Harry Potter, Radcliffe embodies Yankovic with a mix of sincerity and comedic flair. His portrayal is both a loving homage and a hilariously exaggerated version of the real-life artist, capturing Al's quirks and musical genius in a performance that's as heartfelt as it is hysterical. Joining Radcliffe is Evan Rachel Wood, who plays Madonna in a surprising and delightfully exaggerated cameo. Wood's performance as the iconic pop star is a standout, blending charm and a touch of mischief, perfectly complementing the film's offbeat tone. Her chemistry with Radcliffe adds an unexpected yet thoroughly entertaining dynamic to the story. Rainn Wilson, known for his role as Dwight Schrute in "The Office," brings his comedic talents to the role of Dr. Demento, the legendary radio broadcaster who played a pivotal role in Yankovic's early career. Wilson's portrayal is both quirky and endearing, providing a perfect mentor figure that adds depth and humor to the film. The cast also features Julianne Nicholson and Toby Huss as Mary and Nick Yankovic, Al's supportive yet bewildered parents. Their performances add a grounded, relatable element to the otherwise fantastical narrative, offering glimpses into Al's upbringing and the familial influences that shaped his unique path. The ensemble is rounded out by a host of cameos and supporting roles from comedy and music industry heavyweights, each bringing their unique flavor to the film. Patton Oswalt, Jack Black, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, among others, make memorable appearances, adding layers of humor and homage to Yankovic's real-life connections and inspirations. "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story" thrives on the strength of its cast, each actor bringing their A-game to create a film that's as zany and unpredictable as Yankovic's music itself. The performances are not just about impersonation but capturing the spirit of the characters they portray, making for a viewing experience that's both a loving tribute and a riotously funny exploration of one of music's most unique talents.
It's time to get WEIRD. Nate and Dan take on this cult classic from the late 80s, starring the one and only "Weird Al" Yankovic. They have so much love for this film, but they both want to fix it! 00:00 - Intro 01:40 - Movie Recap 07:42 - What Dan Loves 11:47 - What Nate Loves 16:18 - Dan's Fix 19:21 - Nate's Fix "UHF," a cult classic comedy film from 1989, stands out not only for its quirky humor and outlandish scenarios but also for its eclectic and memorable cast. Headlined by the inimitable "Weird Al" Yankovic in his first and only starring role, the film offers a delightful array of performances that contribute to its enduring charm. "Weird Al" Yankovic plays George Newman, an eccentric dreamer who unexpectedly finds himself in charge of a failing UHF television station. Yankovic’s comedic talent and charismatic screen presence anchor the film, with his natural flair for satire and parody shining through in every scene. His portrayal of George is both endearing and hilariously over-the-top, perfectly suited to the film’s whimsical tone. Supporting Yankovic is an ensemble cast that elevates the film’s comedic appeal. Michael Richards, best known for his role as Kramer on "Seinfeld," delivers a standout performance as Stanley Spadowski, the station's janitor-turned-unlikely TV star. Richards’ physical comedy and energetic persona bring an infectious enthusiasm to the character, making Stanley’s antics some of the most memorable moments in the film. Kevin McCarthy takes on the role of R.J. Fletcher, the villainous owner of a rival network. McCarthy’s portrayal of Fletcher is wonderfully exaggerated, capturing the essence of a classic, mustache-twirling antagonist. His over-the-top performance provides a perfect foil to Yankovic’s quirky protagonist, adding a layer of delightful absurdity to the narrative. Victoria Jackson, known for her work on "Saturday Night Live," plays Teri Campbell, George’s supportive girlfriend. Jackson’s sweet and understated performance provides a nice contrast to the film’s broader comedic elements, grounding the story with a touch of sincerity and warmth. The cast also includes Gedde Watanabe as Kuni, the martial arts instructor with a penchant for slapstick humor, and Billy Barty as Noodles MacIntosh, the station’s diminutive cameraman. Both actors contribute to the film’s eclectic mix of characters, each bringing their unique comedic style to the screen. One of the film's standout moments is Yankovic's parody music video of Dire Straits' "Money for Nothing." In "UHF," this becomes "Money for Nothing/Beverly Hillbillies," a brilliant spoof that blends the iconic guitar riff and animation style of the original with humorous lyrics about the classic TV show "The Beverly Hillbillies." This parody encapsulates Yankovic's talent for clever wordplay and his ability to transform pop culture references into comedic gold. The video is not only a highlight of the film but also a testament to Yankovic's skill as a parodist and musician, seamlessly integrating into the movie’s plot while providing a memorable and hilarious musical interlude. The film’s array of quirky characters and the talented cast that brings them to life are central to "UHF’s" enduring appeal. The chemistry among the actors, coupled with Yankovic’s distinctive comedic voice, creates a vibrant and entertaining cinematic experience. In summary, "UHF" is a film that thrives on the strength of its cast. From Yankovic’s charismatic lead performance to Richards’ unforgettable turn as Stanley Spadowski, each actor contributes to the film’s unique blend of humor and heart. The result is a comedy that, despite its initial box office struggles, has earned a well-deserved place in the pantheon of cult classics. The cast's dedication to their roles and their ability to embrace the film’s absurdity make "UHF" a timeless piece of comedic cinema.
We've pitched movies before, but this time we give each other a title to a movie and make the other brother pitch it! They are wild and crazy and not at all what we expected. Nate comes up with the sixth Planet of the Apes move in the 70's "Houses of the Holy of the Planet of the Apes" featuring 3 amazing classic rock songs. Dan's title for Nate is "Ticket 2 Ride: In Space", a sequel to a movie that does not exist. Enjoy! 00:00 - Intro 01:24 - Movie Title Reveals 06:49 - Nate's Pitch "Ticket 2 Ride: In Space" 18:07 - Dan's Pitch "Houses of the Holy of the Planet of the Apes" "Ticket to Ride," the iconic board game, presents a perfect opportunity for a film adaptation due to its rich narrative potential, historical appeal, and broad audience reach. The game’s premise of building train routes across various regions offers a versatile backdrop for storytelling. A film could interweave multiple characters' journeys, reflecting themes of ambition, adventure, and human connection, set against the transformative era of railroads. The historical context of the game adds educational value, bringing to life the engineering marvels and societal changes driven by the railway boom. This setting can evoke nostalgia and wonder, making the film both enlightening and entertaining. Furthermore, "Ticket to Ride" appeals to all ages, ensuring a wide audience. It can balance action, drama, and humor, making it accessible for families while offering depth for older viewers. Given the trend of successful game-based adaptations, "Ticket to Ride" aligns well with current cinematic interests, promising visually stunning sequences and a captivating narrative that celebrates exploration and human ingenuity. The original "Planet of the Apes" films from the 1970s are a testament to the power of strong casting in science fiction. Charlton Heston's portrayal of astronaut George Taylor in the 1968 classic set the standard with his intense and memorable performance, capturing the bewilderment and defiance of a man out of his time. Roddy McDowall's roles as Cornelius and later Caesar across multiple films brought remarkable depth and empathy to his ape characters, showcasing his versatility and emotional range. Kim Hunter's performance as Zira added a compassionate and intelligent counterpoint, creating a dynamic duo with McDowall that anchored the series. Maurice Evans as Dr. Zaius offered a compelling antagonist, blending authority and fear, while James Franciscus in "Beneath the Planet of the Apes" and Ricardo Montalban in "Escape from the Planet of the Apes" and "Conquest of the Planet of the Apes" delivered solid supporting roles that enriched the narrative.
After fixing Episode I through III, Nate and Dan decide to pitch another theatrical Star Wars prequel film, separate from the Skywalker saga. Are they going to be better than the prequels? Who knows, since these will never be made, but enjoy the pitches!
00:00 - Intro
01:50 - Dan's Pitch "Star Wars: Order 66"
14:00 - Nate's Pitch "Star Wars: Rise of the Emperor"
The Star Wars prequels, consisting of "The Phantom Menace" (1999), "Attack of the Clones" (2002), and "Revenge of the Sith" (2005), have been the subject of much debate since their release. Despite initial mixed reactions, these films have gained a devoted following and are now celebrated for their contributions to the Star Wars saga.
George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars universe, is the driving force behind the prequels. Lucas’s vision for the prequels was ambitious: to explore the origins of beloved characters, the rise of the Galactic Empire, and the fall of the Jedi Order. His innovative storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, and willingness to push cinematic boundaries made these films possible.
Liam Neeson’s portrayal of Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn in "The Phantom Menace" brought gravitas and wisdom to the role. Qui-Gon is a maverick Jedi, unafraid to challenge the Council’s decisions and trust his instincts. Neeson’s performance captured the character’s deep sense of duty and compassion, making Qui-Gon a memorable and beloved figure in the Star Wars canon.
Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi is one of the standout performances of the prequels. Taking on the mantle of a character originally brought to life by Sir Alec Guinness, McGregor faced the daunting task of bridging the gap between the young, idealistic Jedi Knight and the wise, battle-weary mentor seen in the original trilogy.
Natalie Portman’s portrayal of Padmé Amidala brought strength, grace, and vulnerability to the character. As the Queen of Naboo and later a Senator, Padmé is a key political figure in the prequels. Portman’s performance highlighted Padmé’s intelligence, courage, and unwavering commitment to peace and justice.
Hayden Christensen’s portrayal of Anakin Skywalker is arguably the most crucial and challenging role in the prequels. Tasked with depicting Anakin’s transformation from a gifted, compassionate Jedi to the Sith Lord Darth Vader, Christensen faced the immense pressure of meeting fans’ expectations for this iconic character.
Ian McDiarmid’s dual role as Chancellor Palpatine and Darth Sidious is a masterclass in villainy. McDiarmid’s ability to seamlessly switch between the charming, manipulative politician and the sinister Sith Lord made him a standout performer in the prequels. His portrayal of Palpatine’s rise to power and orchestration of the Clone Wars is both chilling and captivating.
The supporting cast of the Star Wars prequels played crucial roles in enriching the narrative and bringing the galaxy far, far away to life. Samuel L. Jackson’s portrayal of Mace Windu added a sense of authority and gravitas to the Jedi Council. Jackson’s commanding presence and formidable combat skills made Mace Windu a standout character, particularly in his confrontation with Palpatine.
Rounding out the Prequel trilogy it's time to fix the third installment in the Star Wars franchise, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. What will the time travelling movie producers change this time? Who has the high ground? Stay tuned to find out. 00:00 - Intro 01:56 - Movie Recap 10:13 - What Dan Loves 12:05 - What Nate Loves 17:03 - Dan's Fix 22:28 - Nate's Fix "Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith," the final installment in George Lucas's prequel trilogy. Released in 2005, this film bridges the gap between the prequels and the original trilogy, depicting the tragic fall of Anakin Skywalker and the rise of Darth Vader. George Lucas, the creator of the Star Wars saga, returned to write and direct "Revenge of the Sith," bringing his epic vision to a dramatic and poignant conclusion. Lucas's direction in this film is marked by his ability to blend intense action with deep emotional resonance, capturing the complexity of Anakin Skywalker's transformation. Lucas's primary goal with "Revenge of the Sith" was to create a dark and compelling narrative that would seamlessly connect the prequel trilogy to the original films. He focused on exploring themes of betrayal, loss, and the seductive nature of power. The film's tone is darker than its predecessors, reflecting the grim descent of its protagonist and the collapse of the Republic. John Williams's score for "Revenge of the Sith" is a critical element of the film's emotional impact. Williams's music enhances the narrative, providing an auditory backdrop that intensifies the drama and action. Themes such as "Battle of the Heroes" and "Anakin's Betrayal" are particularly memorable, adding depth to the film's most pivotal moments. Williams's score is both epic and haunting, perfectly complementing the film's tone. Hayden Christensen delivers a powerful performance as Anakin Skywalker, capturing the character's tragic journey from hero to villain. Christensen's portrayal of Anakin is marked by his ability to convey the character's inner turmoil, fear, and ambition. His performance is particularly compelling in the scenes where Anakin grapples with his loyalty to the Jedi and his desire to save Padmé. Natalie Portman returns as Padmé Amidala, delivering a nuanced and poignant performance. Portman's portrayal of Padmé captures her strength, compassion, and deep love for Anakin. Despite her limited screen time, Portman makes a significant impact, particularly in her scenes with Christensen. Ewan McGregor delivers one of his most memorable performances as Obi-Wan Kenobi, capturing the character's wisdom, integrity, and deep sense of duty. McGregor's portrayal of Obi-Wan is marked by his ability to balance the character's role as a mentor with his personal grief over Anakin's betrayal. Ian McDiarmid delivers a masterful performance as Chancellor Palpatine, revealing the true depths of his character's villainy. McDiarmid's portrayal of Palpatine is marked by his ability to seamlessly transition from the seemingly benevolent leader to the malevolent Sith Lord, Darth Sidious. Frank Oz returns to voice Yoda, bringing wisdom and a touch of humor to the beloved Jedi Master. In "Revenge of the Sith," Yoda plays a crucial role in the Jedi Order's fight against the Sith. Oz's vocal performance captures Yoda's sage-like presence and his deep sorrow over the fall of the Jedi. Samuel L. Jackson returns as Mace Windu, delivering a commanding and authoritative performance. Jackson's portrayal of Mace Windu is characterized by his unwavering resolve and commitment to the Jedi Order. His scenes with Anakin and Palpatine highlight his character's suspicion and integrity.