Movie Postmortem

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review The Transformers: The Movie (1986), the animated classic that traumatized an entire generation of kids in order to sell them new toys. We break down Hot Rod’s rise from reckless young Autobot to future leader, why the animation looked so good compared to other cartoons, and the pure power of the hit ballad “The Touch” by Stan Bush. Is The Transformers: The Movie a Cause for Celebration, or did it just emotionally scar children in the pursuit of merchandise sales? Either way, it’s officially Hot Rod Summer!Our episode on TransformersOur episode on Transformers 2: Revenge of the FallenOur episode on Transformers OneFollow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Mortal Kombat (2021), the reboot that tried to deliver brutal fights and iconic fatalities from the popular fighting game it was based on, but was knocked out by poor decision making behind the scenes. We discuss the film’s biggest missteps, from the introduction of Cole Young as a bland audience surrogate to the baffling decision to skip the actual fighting tournament. Tune in to hear why we think this film is a Flawless Defeat when it comes to storytelling.THE SECRET of RAIDEN'S SHOUT in MORTAL KOMBAT!@MRSEATS explains what Raiden is saying during his flying attack.Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023), the fantasy adventure that didn't do well at the box office, but captured the chaotic energy of a fun D&D campaign. We discuss why the humor works, the surprisingly heartfelt character moments, and what part reminded us of our real life family dynamic.We also offer our Script Stitch-Up to discuss what plot points could have been cut from film ... but you really should wait until Jarnathan finally arrives to hear those!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Wreck-It Ralph (2012), the animated adventure that asks: what if the bad guy just… didn’t want to be the bad guy anymore? We share some memories from our time in arcades growing up, then dive into a fun discussion of the film.We talk about the nostalgia of seeing classic video game characters share the screen, the clever rules that govern how arcade worlds connect, and the heartwarming message of the film that makes Ralph and Vanellope’s friendship so moving. Tune in as we break down what worked, what didn't, and offer our Script Stitch-Ups for this film.Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Resident Evil (2002), the video game adaptation starring Milla Jovovich that kicked off a franchise that has lasted for almost 25 years and grossed over a billion dollars! We discuss the film’s early-2000s style, how the movie plot works in video game logic, and why we think Michelle Rodriguez's character (Rain) is the real star of the film. Tune in to hear if we think the film captures the spirit of the games or if it needs a lot of Script Stitch-Up! Our episode on Event HorizonFollow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001), the first video game adaptation of the popular video game franchise.We discuss the misguided efforts to make Angelina Jolie match the physical dimensions of the game version of the character, the early CGI, and whether the movie captures what gamers actually enjoyed about Tomb Raider.Is this film a Cause for Celebration as an early video game adaptation, or just another example of weak source material resulting in a weak film? Tune in!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, Reggie and Isaiah are joined by Erin and Kevin from The Podcast That Wouldn’t Die to review Gravity (2013), Alfonso Cuarón’s intense survival film that won seven Oscars! We talk about Sandra Bullock's instantly likeable astronaut, the challenging process of making the film, and why this might be one of the most best theater experiences of the 2010s. We also discuss whether the story is as strong as its visuals and score.Tune in as we break down the film and suggest some funny Script Stitch-Up for alternate endings!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠The Podcast That Wouldn't Die

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review The Martian (2015), the sci-fi film where survival comes down to science, problem-solving, and a whole lot of potatoes. Stranded alone on Mars, Mark Watney (Matt Damon) must rely on botany, engineering, and relentless optimism to stay alive long enough for NASA to bring him home.We break down why the film’s step-by-step problem-solving is so satisfying, how its hopeful and humorous tone set it apart from darker space stories, and why Mark might be one of the most likable protagonists in modern sci-fi. Plus, a commercial about a drink that Mark probably wished he had on Mars!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode, we review Armageddon (1998), the ultimate example of peak Michael Bay mayhem. We break down the film’s chaotic energy, the ensemble cast, and why Bay’s attempt to mimic Titanic's love story falls flat. We also talk about why NASA’s plan to train oil drillers instead of astronauts is such an absurd movie premise!Is Armageddon a disaster movie masterpiece or just a fun bad film? Either way, we’re here to determine the Causes of Celebration and the Causes of Death.Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we are joined by the hosts of the Based on a Book Podcast to discuss Arrival. Together, we review Denis Villeneuve’s cerebral sci-fi film where alien contact is less about invasion action and more about learning about language.We break down Amy Adams’ performance, the amazing cinematography, and the haunting soundtrack. Our guests help us compare the film to its source material (Ted Chiang’s short story) while we dig into why this film is so different than other films about first contact.Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠Based on A Book Podcast

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Major Payne, Damon Wayans’ military-school comedy that features a drill-sergeant taking charge of a troop of young cadets in need of discipline. We discuss Wayans’ over-the-top performance, the surprisingly positive message, and how the film walks the line between comedy and heart-warming family film.We also talk about whether the humor still lands today, and how the role might have been played by a different actor. Is Major Payne a Cause for Celebration or just a bad In Living Color comedy? Tune in!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Rush Hour (1998), the action-comedy that launched one of the most popular franchises of the late ’90s. We discuss Jackie Chan’s physical brilliance as Inspector Lee, Chris Tucker’s motor-mouth energy as Detective Carter, and how their cultural clash somehow turns into perfect comedic chemistry.Somehow, we even manage to connect this to K-pop, tracing parallels in global pop culture crossovers and martial arts. Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, I give a spoiler-free review of Crime 101, the sleek crime thriller that clearly wants to be Heat, but never quite matches the intensity. With stylish highway cinematography and moody Los Angeles nightscapes, the film often looks the part. Unfortunately, atmosphere can only carry you so far.I cover the best performances and talk about whether this a respectable theatrical release from Amazon, or another example of streaming-era films feeling just a little too small? Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode, we are joined by the hosts of Final Girls Podcast to review 10 Cloverfield Lane, the bottle thriller about paranoia and control.Together, we discuss Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s quietly brilliant protagonist, and how the movie utilizes uncertainty to keep both its characters and the audience guessing about what will come next! We also debate the controversial third act, the Cloverfield connection, and whether the genre shift enhances or undercuts the film’s strengths. Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠Final Girls Podcast

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, I review Mercy (2026), a screen-life thriller that can’t quite decide what kind of movie it wants to be. Marketed as a cautionary AI tale, the film promises high-stakes techno-paranoia but morphs into a far more conventional action film.I talk about why the screen-life format and AI angle feel unnecessary, how the story would function almost identically without them, and what really shocked me about the end of this film!Follow us on ⁠BlueSky⁠

In this episode, we review Megamind. Released in a year packed with animation heavy-hitters, this clever superhero satire was largely forgotten despite great voice acting and a surprisingly thoughtful take on villains, heroes, and purpose.We break down why Megamind works and why its release date may have doomed it commercially. Follow us on BlueSkyOur episode on How To Train Your DragonVideo from Cinema therapy on MegaMind and Nice Guy syndromehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjpxlBRbhXs

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we are joined by Cheryl and Jae and from the Vaguely Nerdy podcast to discuss Prometheus (2012), Ridley Scott’s ambitious Alien prequel that asks big questions about creation, and the origin of the xenomorphs. We do a full plot rundown and give you our takes on the events on the film.Most importantly, we tackle one of the strangest ideas buried in the film: how director Ridley Scott ties the Aliens’ storyline into Christian theology. As always, we determine the Causes of Death or Causes for Celebration and offer Script Stitch-Ups.Vaguely Nerdy Follow us on Bluesky ⁠@moviepostmortem.bsky.social⁠New episodes every week!

In this episode, we review Dark Skies, the alien-abduction film that plays like a Paranormal Activity film with an alien swapped in. We talk about why this genre blend works better than it has any right to and why the dysfunctional family dynamic aids the story. Follow us on Bluesky @moviepostmortem.bsky.socialNew episodes every week!

In our last Christmas episode, we review gremlins, the supposedly family friendly horror film that traumatized a generation of kids! We discuss the influence of Spielberg, why Pete should have been the main protagonist, and what we worry about with the upcoming Gremlins 3.

In this episode, we review the high-grossing adaptation of the popular Dr. Seuss children's book. We do a plot rundown and discuss the production design that brought Whoville to life, our favorite lines from Jim Carrey, the character we would cut from the film, and why we have a problem with the film showing that the Grinch lives off of trash! Plus, two fun Christmas commercials! Merry Grinchmas!

In this episode, we review Home Alone, the holiday classic that broke the box office. We do a rundown of the film and cover Kevin accidental abandonment, the sheer chaos of the McCallister household, and why the Wet Bandits may be the most persistent criminals in cinema history.We talk about John Williams’ iconic score, the perfectly telegraphed traps, and whether we like this film more than the second one. Tune in!

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Die Hard - the action classic that became one of the most popular Christmas movies of all time! We discuss Bruce Willis’ genre-redefining role as John McClane, Alan Rickman’s ice-cold brilliance as Hans Gruber, and why Holly’s corporate party has so much debauchery! Tune in as we celebrate the film that changed action movies forever.

In this episode, we review the Christmas comedy, Jingle All the Way (1996). From Arnold Schwarzenegger’s increasingly unhinged antics on his quest for a Turbo Man doll to Sinbad’s conspiracy-fueled meltdown, we discuss why this film has become a Christmas staple.We talk about Phil Hartman's scene stealing, Sinbad's best lines, and whether the movie’s mayhem holds up or collapses under its own weight in the third act. Tune in to also hear a commercial about what to do if you ACTUALLY want a Booster action figure!

For our Thanksgiving episode, we review Robert Eggers’ The Witch (2015), the slow-burn horror folktale that pairs perfectly with the holiday because it focuses on Puritans, food, and family tension!We talk about the film’s haunting visuals, the religious beliefs shown in the film, and the harshest insult a man could ever receive!

In this episode, we review The Stanford Prison Experiment, the dramatization of one of psychology’s most infamous studies. We discuss how the film captures the unsettling transformation of college students into “guards” and “prisoners,” the escalation of cruelty, and the complete absence of responsible oversight and scientific standards responsible for the whole thing. We also talk about the flawed methodology, the biased instructions, and the regulatory fallout that occurred after the real incident.💬 Follow us on Bluesky @moviepostmortem.bsky.social🎧 New episodes every week!

In this episode, we review 2012, Roland Emmerich’s disaster epic that turned the Mayan apocalypse myth into two and a half hours of global chaos, improbable escapes, and collapsing landmarks. From John Cusack’s dad-driving survival skills to Woody Harrelson’s conspiracy theorist radio show, this movie delivers every disaster trope you could want.We do a full plot rundown so we can cover the absurd science, the visual spectacle that still impresses, and the surprisingly emotional beats buried beneath all the mayhem. Is 2012 a guilty pleasure worth rewatching? Tune in for our ‘Causes of Death or Causes for Celebration’ and our ‘Script Stitch-Ups’.

In this episode we review M. Night Shyamalan’s Split (2016), the psychological thriller that brought the director back into the spotlight. James McAvoy gives memorable performance as Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 23 personalities.We talk about how the film handles mental health representation, the balance between thriller and fantasy, and whether the final act pays off the initial setup. Is Split a true ‘Cause for Celebration’ or just another identity crisis? Tune in!

In this episode we Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992), Francis Ford Coppola’s colorful, melodramatic take on the vampire classic. With Gary Oldman’s unforgettable performance, bold production design, and an erotic focus that made one of us blush, this film is equal parts masterpiece and mature soap opera.We break down the gothic visuals, the blend of sensuality and horror, and the film’s daring commitment to melodrama. We also discuss Winona Ryder and Keanu Reeves’ performances, the practical effects that still hold up today, and why this adaptation remains one of the strangest, most memorable entries in the vampire genre. Is it a ‘Cause for Celebration,’ or just a blood-drenched aesthetic experiment? Tune in and find out.

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review It (2017), the coming-of-age horror film based on the popular Stephen King novel!We talk about Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise, the film’s balance of humor and horror, and why the Losers Club reminds us of another of King's stories set in the late 1950s.

In this episode, we review Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), the film that introduced the world to Freddy Krueger! We talk about the film’s surreal dream imagery, iconic villain, and its blending of horror and humor.Tune in as we break down its ‘Causes of Death or Causes for Celebration,’ and offer a few dream-inspired ‘Script Stitch-Ups.’

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Evil Dead Rise - a gory reboot/sequel of the cult franchise that trades the cabin in the woods for an apartment and the chainsaw for a cheese grater. We talk about the practical effects, the relentless violence, and the moments that made us cheer, cringe, and cover our eyes.

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Tron: Legacy with special guests, the hosts of the Vaguely Nerdy Podcast! Together, we dive into this legacy sequel that dazzled audiences with neon visuals and a Daft Punk soundtrack that was leagues better than the overly familiar story.We discuss light cycles, poor de-aging effects, digital damsels in distress, the best way to watch this film, and much more!,Tune in as we and our nerdy guests also weigh in on whether Tron: Legacy is a must watch before you head to theaters to see Tron: Ares.

In this episode, we review Jordan Peele’s smash hit, Get Out. We talk about the layered symbolism in everything from teacups to deer, and the way horror is used as a lens for very real fears. Tune in for our postmortem on the movie that made everyone look twice at their tea drinking therapists.

In this episode we review The Cabin in the Woods, Drew Goddard and Joss Whedon’s meta-horror/comedy mash-up that explores the idea that every slasher film cliche is actually the necessary result of an elaborate ritual with world-wide implications.Is this film a trope-smashing triumph, or just a clever idea that doesn't go far enough? Tune in as we identify its ‘Causes of Death’ or ‘Causes for Celebration,’ and suggest some huge ‘Script Stitch-Ups’.

In this episode we review Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019), the sequel to the 2014 film that seriously upped the kaiju count by including classic monsters such as Mothra, Rodan, and King Ghidorah!We talk about the score, visuals, and the narrative choices that left made one of us laugh out loud. Tune in!

In this episode we review the Arnold Schwarzenegger classic, Predator (1987). Equal parts sci-fi and action, the film gave us one of cinema’s most iconic creatures and some of the most quotable one-liners of all time. We talk about why the Predator remains one of the best-designed movie monsters of all time and what parts don't hold up today.

In this episode, we discuss Ang Lee’s Hulk (2003), a superhero film probably 20 years ahead of its time. A strange mix of art-house ambition and comic-book action, the film explores Bruce Banner’s repressed trauma and while also delivering the spectacle of a giant green rage monster. The result? Something that really feels like an A24 superhero film.Join us as we dissect the ‘Causes of Death or Causes for Celebration’ and offer our ‘Script Stitch-Ups’ for this pre-MCU Hulk origin story.

In this episode we review War of the Worlds (2025) - a low budget film shot during the COVID lockdown, where we follow the story of one man experiencing an alien attack on Earth while never leaving his computer screen. We talk about why Ice Cube was a poor choice for the lead, how blatant advertising pulls you out of the story, and whether this is a new classic "fun bad" film. Plus a new show segment - The Autopsy Report!

In this episode, we go back to 2012 to revisit The Amazing Spider-Man. We talk about Andrew Garfield being the "middle child" web-slinger, a love story that may remind you of Twilight, and a villain who still looks intimidating even though he's just a lizard wearing a lab coat. Plus, Reggie shares a red-carpet story involving Emma Stone, nerves, and a missed marriage proposal opportunity.

In this episode, we review Godzilla (2014), the Legendary reboot that gave us monster fighting, but made us wait for it. We talk about Bryan Cranston’s too-early exit, the surprisingly good updated design for Godzilla, and the frustration of having the film cut away just before a fight starts. Does the payoff justify the slow burn? Tune in to find out.

In this episode we review The Core (2003), the film that asked: what would happen if the earth's core stopped spinning? From birds falling from the sky to an earth-saving mission that involves nukes and an unkempt Aaron Eckhart, this movie is peak disaster movie madness! We discuss the film’s bad science, messy hackers, miracle metals, and whether it earns its place in the "so bad it’s fun" hall of fame.

For our Shark Week episode, we’re covering Deep Blue Sea! This 1999 cult classic features genetically enhanced sharks that terrorize people trapped in a sinking research facility. Join us as we dissect this film's super smart sharks, super dumb humans, and some of the worst lab safety protocols in movie history. Does it sink or swim? Tune in to find out.

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Superman (2025), the first film in the new DC Comics Cinematic Universe. We talk about how this Superman compares to those of the past, the unneeded staff at the Daily Planet, and why the dog is the true MVP of this story! We also break down our Causes of Death, Celebration, and of course, a few of Script Stitch-Ups.

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Jurassic World: Rebirth, the 7th film in the Jurassic Park franchise that imagines a world where people are bored of dinosaurs. We break down everything from the flimsy premise and shaky science to Scarlett Johansson’s underwritten role and the film’s baffling decision to skip over the more exciting parts. We tell you why you should wait for streaming or just skip this completely!

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon. From stunning flight sequences to a moving musical score, we break down what makes this film a bad adaptation of the source material, but a fantastic film! We had a lot of Causes for Celebration. But what did we decide was the only negative for this film? Tune in to find out!

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, Isaiah puts on the cape and cowl to revisit Batman Begins, the gritty 2005 reboot that launched the Dark Knight trilogy. From ninja training to Christian Bale’s growl, he talks about how Christopher Nolan's origin tale compares to other classics like Spider-Man.

In this episode, we revisit the Jim Carrey’s 1994 hit, The Mask. From Tex Avery-inspired cartoon antics to Cameron Diaz’s unforgettable entrance, the film has a lot to offer, and we’re here to dissect it. We discuss a lot of "Causes for Celebration" and offer a few surprising "Script Stitch-Ups" to strengthen the romantic side of this story.

In this episode, we head to Camp Crystal Lake to revisit Friday the 13th (1980), the slasher that launched a franchise. From gory makeup effects to sudden plot twists, we dig into what worked, what didn’t, and why this horror classic may be more infamous than actually good. We find a lot more "Causes of Death" than "Causes for Celebration"! Plus, a couple of fake commercials for final girls and camp accident victims!

In this episode, we discuss Eclipse, the third film in the Twilight franchise. We break down the supposed Bella-Jacob-Edward love triangle, ask why Edward's makeup looks so bad, and talk about how we'd rather be watching a film about Civil War era vampires. Plus, a couple of Twilight themed commercials!

In this episode, we cover Train to Busan, the 2016 South Korean zombie film that is a mix of fast zombie action and biting social commentary. Listen to hear our "Causes of Celebration" and the difference between this film compared to American zombie films.