Legit Cool - Film Talk

119 - The Accountant 2 - Review & Recap

Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) has a talent for solving complex problems. When an old acquaintance is murdered, leaving behind a cryptic message to "find the accountant," Wolff is compelled to solve the case. Realizing more extreme measures are necessary, Wolff recruits his estranged and highly lethal brother, Brax (Jon Bernthal), to help. In partnership with U.S. Treasury Deputy Director Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson), they uncover a deadly conspiracy, becoming targets of a ruthless network of killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.

 

In this episode of Legit Cool, the hosts dig into 'The Accountant 2,' chatting about its production, box office success, and how it feels compared to the first film. They explore Christian Wolff’s evolution, new characters, and the shift to a more action-heavy focus, while weighing its themes of family and redemption. The conversation covers what critics thought, the sequel’s strengths and weaknesses, and how well the plot and character arcs come together. They dive into character dynamics, especially the portrayal of autism, and discuss how relationships and motivations could’ve hit deeper. The hosts also critique the action sequences, pacing, noting some inconsistencies and missed chances to flesh out characters. They touch on ethical dilemmas like child labor, the balance of action and story, and themes of legacy and hope. Overall, they debate the film’s clarity, action effectiveness, and how it stacks up to the original, sharing their take on its highs and lows and whether it’s worth the watch.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Film Discussion
04:17 Director and Production Insights
08:31 Box Office Performance and Streaming Dynamics
11:30 Character Analysis and Returning Cast
14:14 New Characters and Their Impact
18:00 Plot Dynamics and Character Arcs
20:51 Tone Shift: From Dark to Comedy
23:19 Character Evolution and Consistency
28:08 Character Evolution and Tone Shift
31:15 Critics' Perspectives and Themes
32:30 Character Dynamics and Development
35:34 Family Themes and Redemption
39:39 Plot Analysis and Character Arcs
50:58 Final Thoughts on Character and Story
57:13 Character Arcs and Development
01:00:07 Plot Mechanics and Character Roles
01:03:43 Moral Dilemmas and Character Decisions
01:14:09 Recap and Analysis of the Plot
01:15:24 Action Sequences and Character Skills
01:23:22 Understanding Autism in Characters
01:24:38 Character Dynamics and Relationships
01:25:39 Plot Developments and Character Introductions
01:27:30 Character Motivations and Actions
01:28:12 Humor and Character Interactions
01:30:29 Fractured Relationships and Emotional Depth
01:32:18 Communication Challenges in Relationships
01:34:18 Character Development and Plot Efficiency
01:36:20 Action Sequences and Pacing Issues
01:39:01 Child Labor and Ethical Dilemmas
01:41:52 Legacy and Hope for the Future
01:51:10 Grundy's Transformation and Stress Management
01:53:56 Character Development and Closure
01:56:58 Plot Holes and Action Sequences
02:00:57 Autism Representation and Character Motivations
02:02:54 Comparative Analysis of Sequels
02:08:01 Final Thoughts and Ratings

 

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118 - Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning - Review & Recap

Two months after the rogue AI “Entity” unleashes global chaos, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team — Luther (Ving Rhames), Benji (Simon Pegg), and Grace (Hayley Atwell) — race to stop it from triggering nuclear war. Defying orders to surrender the Sevastopol submarine’s key, Ethan chases the Entity’s agent Gabriel (Esai Morales) across London, the Bering Sea, and South Africa, facing insane stunts like biplane brawls and underwater wrecks.

 

In this podcast episode, River reviews 'Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning,' reflecting on the franchise's legacy, the film's execution, and character performances. He expresses disappointment in the film's narrative structure and villain portrayal while acknowledging the franchise's historical significance and action sequences. In this conversation, River reviews the latest installment of the Mission Impossible franchise, discussing the legacy of villains, particularly Philip Seymour Hoffman, and the emotional journey of Ethan Hunt. He critiques the film's direction, storytelling, and character dynamics, highlighting the challenges faced in delivering a satisfying conclusion to the series. The review also touches on key plot points, character sacrifices, and the overall impact of the film within the franchise's history.

 

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117 - The Accountant

Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) is a math savant with autism, working as a freelance accountant for dangerous criminal organizations while hiding behind a small-town CPA office. When Treasury agent Raymond King (J.K. Simmons) starts closing in, Wolff takes a legit job auditing a robotics company, where clerk Dana Cummings (Anna Kendrick) uncovers a $61 million embezzlement scheme. As Wolff digs deeper, hitmen target him and Dana, forcing him to unleash his lethal skills. With his estranged brother Braxton (Jon Bernthal) and a mysterious ally, Wolff unravels a deadly conspiracy while confronting his past and evading the law.

 

In this episode of Legit Cool, River and Tony dive deep into the 2016 thriller 'The Accountant,' starring Ben Affleck. They explore the film's unique blend of action and character study, discussing the portrayal of autism, the challenges of original IP films in today's cinema landscape, and the critical reception versus audience response. The conversation highlights the film's underrated status and the standout performances, particularly by Affleck, while also addressing the themes of unlikely heroes and the underdog narrative. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the film 'The Accountant,' exploring its plot, character performances, and the representation of autism. They discuss the dynamics between characters, the direction of the film, and the impact of action sequences. The conversation highlights the balance between storytelling and action, emphasizing the film's unique approach to character development and its gritty realism. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of a film's narrative, character development, and thematic elements. They discuss the potential of a sequel, the depth of the protagonist's character, and the symbolism present in key scenes. The dialogue explores the motivations behind the characters' actions, particularly the protagonist's dual life as an accountant and a criminal, and how these elements contribute to the overall storytelling. The hosts also reflect on the film's execution, including its montages and character dynamics, while questioning the moral implications of the protagonist's choices. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the film 'The Accountant,' exploring its intricate plot, character development, and emotional depth. They discuss the action sequences, the significance of art in the protagonist's life, and the impactful twist involving Justine's character. The conversation highlights the film's exploration of family ties, trust, and the portrayal of autism, culminating in a thoughtful review and rating of the film.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Accountant
02:59 Unlikely Heroes in Action Films
05:59 The Underrated Accountant
08:56 The Challenge of Original IP in Cinema
11:58 Critical Reception and Audience Response
15:05 Exploring the Film's Themes and Characters
17:59 Diving into the Performances
21:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
24:47 Unraveling the Plot of The Accountant
25:46 Character Performances: A Deep Dive
29:01 The Complexity of Autism in Film
30:53 Supporting Characters and Their Dynamics
32:44 The Role of Direction in Storytelling
37:03 Action Sequences: Grit and Realism
49:41 The Balance of Action and Storytelling
51:00 Exploring the Sequel's Potential
55:23 Character Depth and Development
59:23 The Role of the Accountant
01:02:21 Symbolism in the Opening Scene
01:05:06 The Legit Job and Character Dynamics
01:09:21 Motivations Behind Criminal Work
01:16:55 The Conspiracy Unravels
01:22:50 Family Ties and Reveals
01:30:55 Wrapping Up the Film
01:34:21 Final Thoughts and Ratings

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116 - Thunderbolts* - Review & Recap

Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts follows Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker, a band of antiheroes drawn into a covert operation by the calculating Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Tasked with a high-stakes mission for the shadowy O.X.E. organization, they uncover a dangerous trap that tests their fractured loyalties. Forced to unite, the team navigates intense action and personal demons to confront a formidable threat. Directed by Jake Schreier, with a striking score by Son Lux, Thunderbolts blends gritty character drama, sharp humor, and vivid visuals, delivering a bold addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe that explores redemption and resilience.

In this review of Marvel's Thunderbolts, the conversation explores the film's significance within the MCU, focusing on character development, particularly Yelena Belova's emotional journey. The discussion highlights the film's themes of trauma and redemption, the authenticity of team dynamics, and the quality of dialogue. The review also touches on Valentina's role in shaping the narrative and the film's action sequences, humor, and visual appeal. Overall, Thunderbolts is presented as a refreshing and engaging addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, marking a potential turning point for the franchise. The conversation delves into the themes and character arcs of the film 'Thunderbolts', exploring the introduction of characters, the significance of the Sentry's rise, the chaos of the void, and the resolution leading to the formation of a new Avengers team. The discussion highlights the emotional depth of the characters, the impact of their vulnerabilities, and the film's connection to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe, while also reflecting on the future of the franchise.

 

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Thunderbolts and MCU Context
03:17 Overview of Thunderbolts: Cast and Crew
09:52 Themes and Character Arcs in Thunderbolts
12:18 Yelena Belova: The Heart of the Film
17:37 Team Dynamics and Character Interactions
24:54 Valentina's Role and the New Avengers
26:49 Action, Humor, and Visuals in Thunderbolts
29:11 Recap of Key Scenes and Character Development
38:52 The Void and Character Introductions
41:57 Taskmaster's Role and Character Development
44:11 Sentry's Rise and Team Dynamics
50:24 The Void's Chaos and Character Vulnerability
57:52 Resolution and the New Avengers
01:04:03 Phase Five Reflections and Future Predictions

 

115 - Captain America: Brave New World - Review & Recap

Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he navigates a global crisis involving a newly discovered metal, adamantium, found on Celestial Island. When an assassination attempt on President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) leads to Isaiah Bradley’s (Carl Lumbly) imprisonment, Sam uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving the Serpent Society and Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson). The film blends political intrigue with action, setting up future MCU conflicts.

 

In this Legit Cool review of Captain America: Brave New World, River unpacks, um, a film that’s, well, kind of a mess. The plot’s all over the place—adamantium conspiracies, Red Hulk chaos, just too much going on—and the pacing, ahh, it’s like it can’t pick a lane, dragging then rushing with no rhythm. Sam Wilson’s arc as the new Cap? Man, it’s got heart, but it feels unearned—unlike Steve Rogers, who grinded for the shield across a trilogy, Sam’s handed the role without the world buying in, and that’s a letdown. Even with a hefty $180 million budget, the action’s flat—shield tosses clip through walls, VFX look cheap, nothing like Winter Soldier’s crisp knife fights. Critics and fans aren’t vibing either, with a 48% Rotten Tomatoes score signaling trouble. River’s worried about the MCU’s path, wondering if Marvel can recapture its storytelling spark and give characters the depth they deserve in what’s coming next.

 

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Captain America: Brave New World
05:42 The Messy Plot and Character Arcs
10:04 Pacing and Storytelling Issues
18:22 Plot Recap and Key Events
31:41 Final Thoughts and Future of the MCU

 

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114 - Wolf Man (2025) - Review & Recap

Leigh Whannell’s reboot of the Universal Monster classic. Christopher Abbott plays Blake, a San Fran dad who drags his wife Charlotte (Julia Garner) and daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) to his rural Oregon childhood home after his dad’s presumed dead. Night one, a beast scratches Blake, and he starts turning feral—family horror with body-horror grit.

 

I’m digging into the 2025 Wolf Man reboot—Leigh Whannell’s stab at the Universal classic. We’re talking the setup, box office flop, character flops, those dope practical effects, and how it’s landing out there. Straight up, I’m bummed—the pacing’s a slog, the arcs are thin, and it’s got no heart to grip you. Visuals pop, sure, but it’s a shell of a story that doesn’t hit home—leaves me cold.

 

CHAPTERS

 

00:00 Introduction to Wolfman
02:58 Overview of the 2025 Reboot
05:55 Box Office Performance and Reception
09:14 General Thoughts on the Film
11:53 Character Analysis and Themes
15:00 Visual Effects and Practical Effects
17:56 Plot Recap and Analysis
25:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

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113 - Conclave - Review & Recap

When the beloved pope dies suddenly, Cardinal Lawrence, Dean of the College of Cardinals, oversees the conclave to elect his successor. Locked in the Vatican with the world’s most powerful cardinals, he uncovers a maze of secrets, scandals, and power plays that could upend the Church.

 

River reviews the political thriller 'Conclave,' directed by Edward Berger. The film explores the intricate power dynamics within the Vatican as Cardinals gather to elect a new Pope following the sudden death of the previous one. River delves into the film's themes of ambition, hypocrisy, and the human condition, highlighting the performances of Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci. The discussion also covers the film's cinematography, score, and the controversial ending that left River feeling unsatisfied despite the overall quality of the film.

 

CHAPTERS

 

00:00 Introduction to Conclave
01:52 Overview of the Film and Its Context
04:19 Themes of Power and Ambition
10:18 Character Analysis and Performances
12:13 Plot Recap and Key Events
23:39 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

 

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112 - MCU Phase 1: Incredible Hulk - Review & Recap

Dr. Bruce Banner’s a genius with a curse—gamma radiation turned him into the Hulk, a green wrecking ball of rage he can’t control. He’s ducking the feds and General Thunderbolt Ross, a hardass dead-set on turning him into a living weapon. On the run, Banner tracks down a fix for his condition and crashes back into the orbit of Betty Ross, the ex he’s still tangled up with. But the military’s closing in, and then there’s Emil Blonsky—a soldier with a mean streak who juiced himself into the Abomination, a freakshow nightmare even uglier than Banner’s demons. When the streets turn into a warzone, Banner’s got no choice but to let the Hulk loose, smashing through the chaos to take Blonsky down before everything’s rubble. By the end, he’s done running from the monster inside—teeing up whatever the MCU’s got brewing next.

 

In this episode, River and Tony take a deep dive into The Incredible Hulk, the MCU’s often-overlooked second installment. They break down the film’s place in Marvel’s early world-building, from its grounded fugitive thriller approach to its ambitious—but sometimes uneven—character dynamics. How does it handle Bruce Banner’s struggle for control? Does the villain hold up? And why does this film feel like an outlier in the MCU’s evolution? They analyze the storytelling, action sequences, and production choices while reflecting on its impact within the larger Marvel universe.

 

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to the MCU and Its Impact
03:01 The Incredible Hulk: Overview and Context
06:08 Character Development and Storytelling Techniques
09:04 Production Insights and Creative Team
12:06 Cameos and MCU Connections
15:05 Critical Reception and Audience Response
18:04 Overall Impressions and Themes
21:03 Character Dynamics and Relationships
24:00 Final Thoughts and Conclusions
26:37 Character Dynamics and Relationships
29:35 Action Sequences and Cinematic Techniques
35:09 Villain Development and Character Arcs
41:44 Plot Execution and Storytelling Challenges
48:41 Final Thoughts and Ratings

 

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111 - Nosferatu - Review & Recap

In Nosferatu (2024), a reimagining of the classic tale, Thomas Hutter (Nicholas Hoult), a real estate agent, travels to the remote castle of Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård) to finalize a property sale. Uncovering Orlok’s vampiric nature, Thomas becomes trapped while Orlok journeys to Wismar, bringing death and plague. Thomas’ wife, Ellen (Lily-Rose Depp), discovers the means to defeat the count through self-sacrifice. In a tragic climax, Ellen lures Orlok into the sunlight, destroying him but losing her life. Gothic, atmospheric, and haunting, the film explores themes of love, mortality, and obsession.

Robert Eggers is back with another gothic masterpiece, and River is here to break it all down! This episode dives into Nosferatu’s haunting visuals, eerie atmosphere, and deep themes of love, obsession, and sacrifice. River explores the film’s financial success, critical reception, and how it stacks up against the 1922 classic. Plus, a deep dive into standout performances (shoutout to Lily-Rose Depp!) and a full plot breakdown. Is this horror gold or just style over substance? Tune in for the verdict! 🎬🔥

River dives into the numbers—$50M budget, $176.6M box office—and the divide between critics (85%) and audiences (73%). Nosferatu stuns visually with its gothic atmosphere, killer cinematography, and eerie sound design, but does the story hold up? Lily-Rose Depp delivers a standout performance, yet the pacing might test your patience. Themes of sacrifice and dark love run deep, but River feels a disconnect between the film’s stunning visuals and its storytelling. Final verdict? A solid 6/10—tune in for the full breakdown! 🔥👀

 

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110 - Heretic - Review & Recap

Two young Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, venture into a remote and unfamiliar town to spread their faith. When they are invited into the home of the enigmatic and charming Mr. Reed, their beliefs and courage are put to the ultimate test. What begins as a seemingly cordial encounter soon spirals into a harrowing psychological ordeal. As Mr. Reed's dark and sinister intentions come to light, the sisters must confront the limits of their faith and the nature of true evil.

 

Join River on this episode of the Legit Cool Podcast as he unpacks the psychological thriller Heretic. With its haunting blend of theological themes and psychological tension, the film boasts standout performances from Hugh Grant and Sophie Thatcher. River explores the film’s intricate storytelling, analyzing its portrayal of control and religion through layered character dynamics. He breaks down the visual techniques, music score, and overall production quality, offering insights into how these elements shape the film’s tone and impact.

While praising the film’s psychological depth and striking cinematography, River doesn’t shy away from critiquing its ending, which struggles to fully deliver on the high stakes it sets up. Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging discussion that balances film nerdy analysis with casual conversation—perfect for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike!

 

 

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