This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan dive into the latest chapter of the Marvel universe with a full breakdown of The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
From its place in the MCU timeline to the dynamics of introducing Marvel’s first family to a new generation, we explore what this release means for the future of the franchise and what fans should take away from its tone, themes, and performances.

Fantastic Four: First Steps
In this episode, we unpack how Marvel approaches legacy-building through new origins, how ensemble casts can shape audience connection, and what it takes to reintroduce iconic characters in a cinematic landscape that’s constantly evolving.

Episode Highlights:

 * The Power of Team Introductions: What makes a superhero team resonate with modern audiences?
 * Balancing Character & Spectacle: Our thoughts on pacing, tone, and world-building.
 * Setting the Stage: How this film fits into Marvel’s broader Phase rollout.
 * Expectations vs Intentions: Navigating fan anticipation and creative direction.
 * Looking Ahead: What this could mean for Marvel’s future arcs and storytelling strategies.

Connect with Us:
Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta
[https://www.instagram.com/tommy_cresta] Ryan: @Foran12
[https://www.instagram.com/foran12] The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast
[https://www.instagram.com/the_popcorn_podcast] Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://www.instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

🎧 Available now on all platforms. Tune in and join the conversation as we peel back the layers of one of Marvel’s most pivotal releases.
 The popcorn’s hot, let’s press play.

Episode 180: "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" Review! Is the MCU Back?

 This Week on The Popcorn Podcast:


With Ryan off on a well-earned vacation, Tommy takes the reins solo to review one of the most intriguing and controversial films of the year, Eddington. Known for its slow pacing, chilling sound design, and ambiguous storytelling, Eddington leaves viewers questioning what’s right and wrong.
Tommy breaks down the film’s slow-burn tension, its unnerving visual style, and the layered performances that make this indie standout a must-watch. Is Eddington a new genre classic or a beautifully shot mystery that leaves too much unsaid? Tune in for Tommy’s full thoughts.

 Episode Highlights:

 * Performance Breakdown: Spotlight on the film’s lead and their emotionally restrained descent.
 * Ambiguity Done Right? A look at the film’s open-ended narrative and what it might all mean.

 Connect with Us:
Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta [https://instagram.com/Tommy_Cresta]
Ryan: @Foran12 [https://instagram.com/Foran12], back soon!
The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast [https://instagram.com/The_Popcorn_Podcast]
Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

 Tune in now and join the conversation. Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 

Episode 179: "Eddington" Review 

🎙️ This Week on The Popcorn Podcast:
Tommy takes a deep dive into the terrifying and innovative found-footage horror film Afflicted. From its shocking body horror to its unique spin on the genre, hear his thoughts on what makes this indie gem stand out and whether it deserves a spot on your must-watch list.

👁️‍🗨️ If you're into unsettling transformations, travel gone wrong, and horror that lingers, this one’s for you.

📢 Connect with Us:
Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta [https://instagram.com/Tommy_Cresta]
Ryan: @Foran12 [https://instagram.com/Foran12]
The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast [https://instagram.com/The_Popcorn_Podcast]
Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

🎬 Tune in now and join the conversation! Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Tommy's Corner : "Afflicted" 2013 Review

This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan soar into the long-awaited return of the Man of Steel with James Gunn’s Superman. The film marks a bold new chapter for DC, blending heart, humor, and heroism in a way only Gunn can deliver.


🦸‍♂️ Superman (2025) Review
Gunn’s vision reintroduces Clark Kent not just as a god among mortals, but as a man caught between two worlds. Anchored by a heartfelt performance from David Corenswet and a powerful ensemble, Superman balances world-saving stakes with intimate, character-driven moments. We break down the film’s unique tone, the chemistry between Lois and Clark, and how this reboot reshapes the DCU’s future.
The film delivers jaw-dropping set pieces from a mid-air rescue above Metropolis to a tense moral standoff with Lex Luthor. That redefine what Superman means for a new generation. Plus, we talk about those surprise cameos and what they might mean for what’s coming next.

🎧 Episode Highlights:

 * Clark Kent’s Humanity: How Gunn grounds Superman in emotion and vulnerability.
 * Lois Lane Reimagined: A sharp, modern take on the iconic reporter—and her dynamic with Clark.
 * DCU Reset: What this film tells us about the future of the new DC cinematic universe.

📢 Connect with Us:
Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta
Ryan: @Foran12
The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast
Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3

🎬 Tune in now and join the conversation! Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Episode 178: James Gunn's "Superman" Review

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎮🍿 

  This week on The Popcorn  Podcast, 

Tommy and Ryan go full throttle into Jurassic World: Rebirth, the latest dino-packed blockbuster that aims to revive the franchise with explosive action, nostalgic thrills, and surprising emotional beats. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Jurassic World: Rebirth Set on a remote island where a covert mission to harvest dinosaur DNA for life-saving medicine turns into a wild ridecomplete with Mosasaurs, Titanosaurs, and mutated “Mutadons” 

 The film brings back the awe of its predecessors with visceral, back-to-basics dinosaur action, even if it resets franchise continuity and leans on predictable tropes . Performances shine: Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey elevate the material, especially Bailey’s iconic specs and charm-worthy hero vibe  Fan-favorite new dino Dolores steals the show with Baby-Yoda-level adorability and yes, those “slutty little glasses” are a meme-worthy hit.

 🎮 We're on Twitch! Catch us live for gaming sessions and behind-the-scenes banter at 

@The_Popcorn_Pod. 📸

 Stay Connected: Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta

 Ryan: @Foran12 

The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast 

Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 🎬 

Tune in now and join the conversation! Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Episode 177: "Jurassic World Rebirth" Review! Has This Franchise Finally Found New Life?

 New Episode Alert!
This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan shift into overdrive with a full-throttle review of F1: The Movie—the Brad Pitt–led racing epic that zooms into theaters with high-stakes action, nostalgia, and pure cinematic adrenaline.

 Episode Highlights:

F1: The Movie

 * Brad Pitt shines as retired F1 legend Sonny Hayes, returning for one last comeback to resurrect a struggling APXGP team alongside rookie Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris 
 * The film delivers immersive racing sequences, shot at real F1 events with IMAX cockpit visuals and thundering engines—pure, high-octane spectacle for both gearheads and casual viewers 
 * Dramatic depth meets formula: While some critics note a predictable underdog story, the generational clash between seasoned Hayes and ambitious Pearce adds emotional fuel to the fire .
 * Supporting cast brilliance: Javier Bardem’s team owner, Kerry Condon’s technical lead, and cameo appearances from real F1 stars like Lewis Hamilton enhance authenticity—though some suggest the narrative leans too slick and commercial 

 We're on Twitch!
Catch us live for gaming, behind-the-scenes chats, and more at @The_Popcorn_Pod.

 Stay Connected:

 * Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta [https://www.instagram.com/Tommy_Cresta]
 * Ryan: @Foran12 [https://www.instagram.com/Foran12]
 * The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast [https://www.instagram.com/The_Popcorn_Podcast]
 * Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://www.instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

 Tune in now and join the conversation! Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Episode 176: "F1: The Movie" Review!!!!

 New Episode Alert! 


This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan sink their teeth into Danny Boyle’s chilling sequel, 28 Years Later!

🎧 Episode Highlights:

28 Years Later

 * Set 28 years after the original outbreak, Spike (Alfie Williams) and his father journey from a fortified island into a rampaged mainland to find help for his ailing mother, Isla (Jodie Comer) 
 * The film reintroduces evolved, terrifying infected: the lumbering “Slow Lows” and unstoppable “Alphas”  especially the brutal Samson 
 * Powerful performances by Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor‑Johnson, and a standout turn by young Alfie Williams bring emotional depth to this intense horror‑drama 
 * Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland infuse the sequel with a reflective, almost folk‑horror tone, blending haunting visuals—shot in part on iPhones with brutal societal commentary 
 * The final act introduces the cult‑like “Jimmies” and sets up the next chapter, The Bone Temple, adding layers of intrigue.

🎮 We're on Twitch!
Join us live for gaming sessions, BTS content, and more at @The_Popcorn_Pod.

📸 Stay Connected:

 * Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta [https://www.instagram.com/Tommy_Cresta]
 * Ryan: @Foran12 [https://www.instagram.com/Foran12]
 * The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast [https://www.instagram.com/The_Popcorn_Podcast]
 * Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://www.instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

🎬 Tune in now and join the conversation! Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Episode 175: "28 Year Later" Review!!

This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan are joined by the crew from ESP Golf TV for a killer crossover episode you won’t want to miss. Together, they dive deep into the shadows to rank the Top 10 Horror Villains and Monsters of all time — from slashers and shapeshifters to the nightmare-fuel icons that haunt our screens and imaginations. Expect bold picks, hot takes, and a whole lot of laughs as film meets fairway in this horror-themed showdown. Lock your doors, turn down the lights, and get ready for some spooky fun.

Episode 174: Ranking Top 10 Horror Villiains feat. ESP Golf TV

This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan step into the frenetic world of Ballerina, the high-octane spinoff from the John Wick universe. Seamlessly blending slick action and emotional stakes, Ballerina delivers a killer performance that keeps fans hooked, even if it occasionally leans on franchise familiarity.

🎬 Film Overview

Set between John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4, Ballerina follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), a Ruska Roma dancer-assassin, as she seeks revenge for her father’s murder at the hands of a powerful assassin known as the Chancellor.  After training under Winston (Ian McShane) and the enigmatic Director (Anjelica Huston), Eve embarks on a merciless mission that explodes into non-stop carnage and fiery showdowns.

🔍 Episode Highlights

 * Ana de Armas Steps Up:
   De Armas brings fierce physicality and layered emotion to Eve, performing most of her own stunts and truly anchoring the action 
 * Action That Pops:
   From flamethrower duels to axe-fueled fights, the action sequences deliver signature Wick-style brutality with inventive choreography and bold camerawork 
 * Tone & Humor:
   Ballerina infuses dry wit and playful nods—like slapstick TV references—offering a refreshing comedic edge amid the pulses of violence 
 * Spinoff Strengths & Weaknesses:
   We debate whether the revenge plot feels recycled, how the supporting characters fare, and where the film stands in comparison to core Wick entries 

📊 Ratings & Reactions

 * Rotten Tomatoes: 75% critics, 93% audience score
 * Metacritic: Mid‑60s, with praise for action, but criticism toward plot depth 

📢 Connect with Us

 * Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta
 * Ryan: @Foran12
 * The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast
 * Editor (Colin Gallagher): @colingallagher.3

Episode 173: "Ballerina" Review feat.Iroh

This week on The Popcorn Podcast, Tommy and Ryan delve into the chilling depths of Bring Her Back, the latest horror offering from Australian filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, renowned for their breakout hit Talk to Me. This sophomore feature amplifies their signature blend of psychological dread and supernatural terror, delivering a film that is both emotionally resonant and viscerally unsettling.

🎬 Film Overview:
Set against the eerie backdrop of Adelaide, Bring Her Back follows orphaned siblings Andy (Billy Barratt) and Piper (Sora Wong), the latter being visually impaired, as they are placed under the care of the enigmatic foster mother Laura (Sally Hawkins). Laura's seemingly nurturing demeanor masks a sinister obsession with resurrecting her deceased daughter, leading the children into a harrowing journey filled with occult rituals and psychological torment. 

🔍 Episode Highlights:

 * Sally Hawkins' Transformative Performance: Exploring Hawkins' departure from her typical roles to portray the disturbingly complex character of Laura, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.
 * Themes of Grief and Obsession: Analyzing how the film portrays the destructive nature of unresolved grief and the lengths one might go to reclaim lost love.
 * Atmospheric Storytelling: Discussing the Philippou brothers' use of setting, sound design, and pacing to build a pervasive sense of dread throughout the film.
 * Comparative Analysis: Contrasting Bring Her Back with Talk to Me, examining the evolution of the directors' storytelling techniques and thematic focus.

📢 Connect with Us:

 * Tommy: @Tommy_Cresta [https://www.instagram.com/Tommy_Cresta]
 * Ryan: @Foran12 [https://www.instagram.com/Foran12]
 * The Show: @The_Popcorn_Podcast [https://www.instagram.com/The_Popcorn_Podcast]
 * Editor Colin Gallagher: @colingallagher.3 [https://www.instagram.com/colingallagher.3]

Tune in now to hear our in-depth discussion on Bring Her Back, a film that challenges the boundaries of horror and emotional storytelling. Your support keeps the popcorn popping! 🍿

Episode 172: "Bring Her Back" Spoiler Review

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