Legit Cool Podcast - Movie Talk

094 - Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga - Review & Recap

Snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers, young Furiosa falls into the hands of a great biker horde led by the warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel, presided over by the Immortan Joe. As the two tyrants fight for dominance, Furiosa soon finds herself in a nonstop battle to make her way home.

In this episode of the Legit Cool Podcast, River reviews and recaps the latest installment of the Mad Max saga, Furiosa. He discusses the film's origins as a prequel to Mad Max Fury Road and shares his thoughts on the direction, cinematography, and action sequences. River praises Anya Taylor-Joy's performance as the standout in the film and critiques the lack of character development and emotional depth in participating principal cast. He also explores the world-building and visual aesthetics of the film, noting that it didn't quite fit the gritty and dirty nature of the Mad Max universe. Overall, River gives the film a rating of 6 out of 10.

 

Key takeaways

Anya Taylor-Joy's performance as Furiosa is the standout in the film
The film lacks character development and emotional depth
The world-building and visual aesthetics don't quite fit the gritty nature of the Mad Max universe
The action sequences are not as impressive as in Mad Max Fury Road
Overall, the film receives a rating of 6 out of 10

This is the review and recap for Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

 

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093 - Fall Guy (2024)

"The Fall Guy" centers on Colt Seavers (Ryan Gosling), a veteran stuntman who has stepped away from the industry to recover from physical and mental strain. He is lured back into the action-packed world when his ex-girlfriend, Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), now a first-time director, needs his expertise for her latest film. However, complications arise when the film’s star, Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), goes missing under mysterious circumstances.

 

This is the review and recap for Fall Guy

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092 - Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Director Wes Ball breathes new life into the global, epic franchise set several generations in the future following Caesar's reign, in which apes are the dominant species living harmoniously and humans have been reduced to living in the shadows. As a new tyrannical ape leader builds his empire, one young ape undertakes a harrowing journey that will cause him to question all that he has known about the past and to make choices that will define a future for apes and humans alike.

 

In this conversation, River and Rick review the movie 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes'. They discuss the director, writers, and composer of the film, as well as the overall quality and reception. They express disappointment with the storyline and pacing, and feel that the movie falls short compared to the previous films in the franchise. They also discuss the potential for a fourth film and the need for a strong story to justify its continuation. The conversation in this part of the recording focuses on the hosts' review of the movie 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes'. They discuss their overall impressions, the visuals, the characters, and the storytelling. They express frustration with the lack of clarity in the story and the underdeveloped characters. They also highlight the confusion surrounding the passage of time and the motivations of certain characters. The hosts discuss the slow start of the movie and the lack of connection they felt with the characters. They also mention the wasted potential of certain characters and the missed opportunities for deeper storytelling. In this conversation, River and Rick review the movie 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' and discuss its flaws and missed opportunities. They critique the lack of world-building and character development, particularly with the villain Proximus. They also express disappointment with the portrayal of the character Nova and the inconsistent storytelling. The conversation covers various themes, including the importance of establishing characters, the role of exposition in storytelling, and the impact of cinematography on the overall film experience.

They conclude with a rating of 5.5 out of 10 for the movie.

 

Key Takeaways 

The movie 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' falls short compared to the previous films in the franchise
The storyline and pacing are disappointing
The film needed a strong story to justify its continuation
The director, writers, and composer of the film are discussed
There is potential for a fourth film in the franchise The hosts were frustrated with the lack of clarity and underdeveloped characters in the movie.
They felt that the slow start and lack of connection with the characters hindered their enjoyment of the film.
The passage of time and motivations of certain characters were confusing and poorly explained.
The hosts felt that there were missed opportunities for deeper storytelling and character development. The movie lacks proper world-building and character development
The portrayal of the villain Proximus is rushed and lacks depth
The character Nova is poorly developed and her motivations are unclear
The cinematography and color palette do not enhance the storytelling
The movie missed opportunities for better storytelling and character arcs

 

 

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091 - The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King - Review & Recap

In "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," Frodo, Sam, and Gollum journey to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring, while Aragorn leads the armies of Middle-earth against Sauron's forces in the Battle of Pelennor Fields. As Frodo and Sam face betrayal and temptation, Aragorn embraces his destiny as the true king of Gondor. With the Ring destroyed and Sauron defeated, Aragorn is crowned king, and peace is restored to Middle-earth. The film concludes with the fellowship's bittersweet farewells and the hobbits' return to the Shire, marking the end of their epic journey.

 

In this episode, River, Tony, and special guest Brendan dive deep into the epic conclusion of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy with their analysis of "The Return of the King." Join them as they explore the highs and lows of Frodo and Sam's journey to Mount Doom, Aragorn's epic battle for Middle-earth, and the emotional farewells that mark the end of an era.

And hey, if you haven't already, make sure to check out our episodes on "The Fellowship of the Ring" and "The Two Towers" for even more in-depth discussions on this iconic trilogy. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into Middle-earth, there's something for everyone on the Legit Cool podcast. 🎉

 

In their spoiler-heavy analysis, River, Tony, and Brendan, a first-time guest on their Legit Cool podcast, meticulously explore every aspect of "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King."

They dissect the film's monumental battles, from the awe-inspiring siege of Minas Tirith to the heart-pounding showdown at the Black Gate, marveling at the seamless blend of practical effects and CGI. Emotions run high as they discuss the character arcs, delving into Frodo's burden, Aragorn's journey to kingship, and the unwavering loyalty of Samwise Gamgee. The trio lauds Peter Jackson's visionary direction, which brings Tolkien's world to life with breathtaking detail, and Howard Shore's sweeping score, which elevates every moment to epic proportions.

However, they don't shy away from acknowledging the film's flaws, from its occasionally sluggish pacing to the divisive nature of its multiple endings. Yet, even amidst these criticisms, River, Tony, and Brendan find themselves wholly captivated by the film's sheer scale and ambition. For them, "The Return of the King" stands as a towering achievement in cinematic storytelling, a testament to the power of imagination and the enduring legacy of Tolkien's masterpiece.

Their unanimous recommendation is clear: whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this epic conclusion is not to be missed. 🌋

 

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090 - The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers - Review & Recap

In "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers," the Fellowship faces its greatest challenges yet. Frodo and Sam press on towards Mordor, navigating the treacherous paths of Emyn Muil and the eerie depths of the Dead Marshes. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli forge an alliance with the people of Rohan, led by King Théoden, against the relentless onslaught of Saruman's army. The epic Battle of Helm's Deep becomes the focal point of their struggle, where hope hangs by a thread amidst the overwhelming forces of darkness. Amidst the chaos, Gandalf returns from death as Gandalf the White, guiding the forces of good in their desperate defense. As friendships are tested and new alliances formed, the stage is set for an epic showdown that will determine the fate of Middle-earth.

 

In this episode of the Legit Cool Podcast, River and Tony discuss the film 'The Two Towers' from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They talk about the production, budget, and box office success of the film. They also share their thoughts on the battle scenes, emotional moments, and the performances of the cast. Tony expresses his love for the Helm's Deep battle and highlights the strong emotional journeys in the film. They also discuss the extended edition of the film and the impact of the Lord of the Rings franchise. In this part of the conversation, Tony and River discuss the epic battle of Helm's Deep and the character development of Frodo and Sam. They also talk about the introduction of King Theoden and the chemistry between Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli. They mention the sacrifice of Gandalf and the stunning opening shots of New Zealand. Overall, they express their love for the film and its ability to establish a vast and immersive world. In this part of the conversation, River and Tony discuss Frodo and Sam's journey, the introduction of Gollum, the pursuit of Merry and Pippin, and Gandalf's return as Gandalf the White. They highlight the world-building in the books and the differences between the books and the films. They also discuss the character development of Gollum and the chemistry between Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli. The chapter titles include Frodo and Sam's Journey, The Pursuit of Merry and Pippin, and Gandalf's Return. In this part of the conversation, River and Tony discuss various scenes and characters in The Two Towers. They talk about Gandalf's reveal as Gandalf the White, Theoden's awakening and transformation, the decision to go to Helm's Deep, Arwen's choice to leave Middle-earth, Faramir's decision to take the ring to Gondor, and the arrival of the elves at Helm's Deep. They also mention the Ents' decision in Fangorn Forest. The conversation highlights the character development and plot progression in the film. In this part of the conversation, Tony and River discuss the power of hopelessness and the bravery of ordinary people. They highlight the contrast between the hobbits and the elves, and the significance of the Battle of Helm's Deep. They also discuss the epic scenes of the battle and the destruction of Isengard by the Ents. The chapter ends with a heartfelt conversation between Frodo and Sam about the importance of holding onto hope and fighting for what is good. The conversation methodically reviewed the principal themes of the film. The main themes discussed were Sam's heroism and character development, the parallel between Faramir and Boromir, the weight of the Battle of Helm's Deep, and Gollum's betrayal. The hosts praised the emotional impact and storytelling of the film, particularly the build-up to Helm's Deep. They both gave the film a 10 out of 10 rating.

 

Key Takeaways

 

The Two Towers is the second film in the Lord of the Rings trilogy and is known for its spectacular action and emotional storytelling.
The film had a budget of $94 million and grossed nearly $950 million at the box office.
The Helm's Deep battle is considered one of the best large-scale battles in film.
The film features strong emotional moments, such as Gandalf's return and the Ents deciding to go to battle.
Some viewers may find the Frodo, Sam, and Gollum scenes to be a drag, but they are necessary for the overall story.
The extended edition of the film provides additional content and is popular among fans of the franchise. The battle of Helm's Deep is a highlight of the film, showcasing epic action and a well-developed plot.
The character development of Frodo and Sam is a standout aspect, with their friendship growing stronger amidst the challenges they face.
The introduction of King Theoden and the chemistry between Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli add depth to the story.
Gandalf's sacrifice and the stunning opening shots of New Zealand contribute to the immersive and expansive world of the film.
Overall, 'The Two Towers' is praised for its ability to establish a vast and engaging world. The world-building in the Lord of the Rings books is extensive, with detailed descriptions of locations and names that are not always mentioned in the films.
Gollum is a standout character with excellent development, and his conversations with himself provide valuable exposition.
The chemistry between Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli is well-established, and their banter adds depth to their characters.
The introduction of Gandalf as Gandalf the White surprises and delights viewers who were not familiar with the books.
The differences between the books and the films, such as the portrayal of the Nazgul and the character of Aragorn, spark interesting discussions. The character development in The Two Towers is well-executed, with notable moments including Gandalf's reveal as Gandalf the White and Theoden's transformation.
The decision to go to Helm's Deep is a pivotal moment in the film, leading to a battle against the Uruk-hai.
Arwen's choice to leave Middle-earth and Faramir's decision to take the ring to Gondor add depth to their characters.
The arrival of the elves at Helm's Deep brings hope and showcases their military prowess.
The Ents' decision in Fangorn Forest highlights the importance of unity and the role of different races in the war against Saruman. Hopelessness can sometimes be a driving force for ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
The Battle of Helm's Deep showcases the bravery and resilience of the characters.
The destruction of Isengard by the Ents is a powerful moment of retribution.
The conversation between Frodo and Sam highlights the importance of hope and fighting for what is good. Sam's character embodies heroism and bravery
The parallel between Faramir and Boromir adds depth to the story
The Battle of Helm's Deep is a standout moment in the film
Gollum's betrayal sets up the next chapter of the story

 

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089 - LOTR Special: A conversation with Oscar Winner Jamie Selkirk

The Lord of the Rings - A PODCAST SPECIAL

In this episode, River and Tony interview Jamie Selkirk, the legendary film editor and producer known for his work on the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They discuss Jamie's experience at the Oscars, his early collaborations with Peter Jackson, and his involvement in the Lord of the Rings films. Jamie shares insights into the editing process and the challenges of working on a trilogy. They also touch on other films Jamie has worked on, such as Bad Taste, Heavenly Creatures, and The Frighteners. In this conversation, Jamie Selkirk, the editor of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, discusses the process of editing and the importance of performance in filmmaking. He explains how editing can enhance a performance and create a cohesive narrative. The conversation also delves into specific scenes from the films, such as the battle on Pelennor Fields, and explores the editing techniques used to build tension and emotion. Selkirk also mentions the challenges of pacing and maintaining the audience's engagement throughout the films. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the extended editions of the films and Selkirk's current projects.

 

Key Takeaways

Takeaways

Jamie Selkirk won an Academy Award for best editor on the Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.
The editing process for the Lord of the Rings films involved multiple editors, with each editor working on a different film in the trilogy.
Peter Jackson's directing style involved shooting multiple takes to ensure he captured the desired performance.
The budget for the Lord of the Rings films increased as the project evolved, with the first film receiving the majority of the funding.
The editing team focused on maintaining a consistent style and performance throughout the trilogy. Editing is a process of finding the best performance and using different shots to create a cohesive narrative.
The editor must consider pacing and rhythm to maintain the audience's engagement.
Specific scenes, such as the battle on Pelennor Fields, were carefully edited to build tension and emotion.
The extended editions of the films include additional scenes that were not necessary for the theatrical release.
Jamie Selkirk is currently involved in the Miramar Creative studio and editing and sound post-production for Victoria University.

 

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Introduction - Exploring film with Legit Cool Podcast

The introduction that introduces.

And scene. 

088 - The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring - Review & Recap

"The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit entrusted with a powerful ring that holds the fate of Middle-earth. He embarks on a perilous journey alongside a diverse fellowship including Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and others to destroy the ring in the fires of Mount Doom. Along the way, they encounter dark forces, face internal struggles, and test their loyalty. The film explores themes of friendship, courage, and the eternal battle between good and evil in a richly imagined fantasy world.

In this episode, River and Bailey review and recap the film 'The Fellowship of the Ring' from 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. They discuss their first impressions of the film, the stunning visuals, and the immersive world-building. They also praise the talented cast, including Christopher Lee and Ian McKellen, and the iconic musical score by Howard Shore. The hosts highlight the film's ability to draw the audience into its world and set up the rest of the series. They both agree that the film deserves a 10 out of 10 rating. The conversation covers the recap of the film 'The Fellowship of the Ring' from 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. The hosts discuss the efficient and smart epilogue that sets the stage for the film. The themes of innocence, loyalty, and the power of the ring are explored through the characters of Frodo, Sam, and Gandalf. The chapter titles could include 'The Efficient Epilogue', 'The Power of the Ring', and 'Innocence and Loyalty'.

Key Takeaways

The Fellowship of the Ring is a visually stunning film with immersive world-building.
The talented cast, including Christopher Lee and Ian McKellen, brings the characters to life.
The iconic musical score by Howard Shore enhances the film's emotional impact.
The film draws the audience into its world and sets up the rest of the series.
Both hosts agree that the film deserves a 10 out of 10 rating. The epilogue of 'The Fellowship of the Ring' efficiently sets the stage for the film
Force perspective is used to create the size difference between characters
The themes of innocence, loyalty, and the power of the ring are explored
The chapter titles could include 'The Efficient Epilogue', 'The Power of the Ring', and 'Innocence and Loyalty' The danger of the ring and the power it holds
The threat posed by the ringwraiths
The revelation of Saruman's betrayal
The importance of unity and sacrifice in the face of evil The Mines of Moria is a treacherous place filled with danger and the remnants of a once-great civilization.
Sam's bravery and loyalty shine through as he fights alongside the Fellowship.
Gandalf's apparent death is a shocking moment that leaves a lasting impact on the characters and the audience.
The encounter with Galadriel in Lothlórien reveals the importance of Frodo's mission and the challenges he will face.
Aragorn's leadership and compassion are demonstrated in his interactions with Boromir. The emotional scenes in the movie, particularly between Frodo and Sam, are powerful and moving.
The loyalty between Frodo and Sam is a standout aspect of the film.
Interesting facts about the movie include Viggo Mortensen chipping his tooth and Orlando Bloom getting the role of Legolas just days before completing drama school.
The hosts briefly discuss their gaming activities and provide information on how to follow the podcast on social media.

 

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087 - LOTR Special: A conversation with Gino Acevedo & Shane Rangi

The Lord of the Rings - A PODCAST SPECIAL

In this episode of the Legit Cool Podcast, Shane Rangi and Gino Acevedo delve into their experiences working on the iconic Lord of the Rings trilogy. They share insights into their roles as actors and visual effects artists, discussing the challenges and rewards of bringing Middle-earth to life on the big screen. Shane reflects on his portrayal of the Witch-King and other characters, while Gino sheds light on the intricate process of creating visual effects and prosthetics for the films. Together, they offer a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the making of these cinematic masterpieces, highlighting the passion and dedication that went into crafting the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's imagination. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual moviegoer, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the magic of filmmaking and the enduring legacy of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Overall, the conversation highlights the passion and dedication of the cast and crew in bringing Middle-earth to life.

 

Key Takeaways

The Lord of the Rings trilogy had a significant impact on New Zealand's film industry and put the country on the map as a major filmmaking destination.
Peter Jackson's vision and determination were instrumental in bringing the films to life and opening doors for other filmmakers.
The production of the films involved a massive amount of prosthetics and special effects work, showcasing the talent and creativity of the Weta Workshop team.
The cast and crew formed a close-knit family during the production, united by their passion for the project and their love for filmmaking.
The success of the Lord of the Rings trilogy paved the way for future epic film franchises and raised the bar for fantasy filmmaking. Creating prosthetics for the Lord of the Rings trilogy was a challenging and detailed process.
The use of prosthetics helped transform actors into different characters and bring the creatures to life.
The collaboration between digital and physical effects was crucial in creating realistic and detailed prosthetics.
The attention to detail in the makeup, even if it wasn't always visible on screen, was important for the overall authenticity of the film.
Working with actors wearing prosthetics required patience and understanding, but some actors embraced the transformation and brought their characters to life. Working on the Lord of the Rings trilogy was a memorable and transformative experience for Gino and Shane.
They faced challenges with prosthetics and makeup, but overall, they were proud of the final outcome.
Both Gino and Shane have a deep appreciation for the Lord of the Rings films and the impact they have had on their lives.
Gino enjoys watching horror and thriller movies, while Shane has a diverse film collection that includes underdog stories and classics.
Shane's career trajectory was shaped by his experiences on the Lord of the Rings trilogy, leading him to work in various roles in the film industry.
The hosts reminisce about their experiences on the Lord of the Rings set and express their gratitude for the film's impact.
Shane shares his recent projects, including an independent zombie film and the TV show Time Bandits.
Passion is essential in the film industry, and the hosts emphasize the importance of loving what they do.
They express their gratitude for the opportunity to be on the podcast and their excitement for future collaborations.

 

 

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086 - Godzilla (2014) - Review & Recap

Ford Brody (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), a Navy bomb expert, has just reunited with his family in San Francisco when he is forced to go to Japan to help his estranged father, Joe (Bryan Cranston). Soon, both men are swept up in an escalating crisis when Godzilla, King of the Monsters, arises from the sea to combat malevolent adversaries that threaten the survival of humanity. The creatures leave colossal destruction in their wake, as they make their way toward their final battleground: San Francisco.

 

In this episode of the Legit Cool Podcast, the host reviews and recaps the 2014 film Godzilla. The host praises the film for its underrated greatness and the betrayal of expectations in a monster film. He discusses the director, Gareth Edwards, and his previous work, as well as the cast and their performances. The host highlights the brilliant storytelling, emotional grounding of the characters, and the masterful cinematography and visual effects. They also mention some minor negatives, such as overacting and a lack of exposition. The recap covers the plot of the film, including the discovery of Godzilla, the nuclear plant disaster, and the protagonist's journey. In this part of the conversation, River recaps the final act of the movie Godzilla (2014). He highlights the epic battles between the monsters and the impact on the human characters. River praises the visual effects, cinematography, and storytelling of the film. He rates it a strong 9 out of 10 and encourages listeners to check out other episodes of the podcast. River also announces a special Lord of the Rings series with guest interviews coming up.

 

Key Takeaways

Godzilla (2014) is an underrated and great film that defies expectations for a monster film
The director, Gareth Edwards, showcases brilliant storytelling and masterful cinematography
The cast delivers strong performances, particularly Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Elizabeth Olsen
The film effectively establishes emotional grounding for the characters
The visual effects by MPC are outstanding and contribute to the film's success
Minor negatives include overacting and a lack of exposition The final act of Godzilla (2014) features epic battles between the monsters and showcases the impact on the human characters.
The visual effects, cinematography, and storytelling of the film are highly praised.
River rates the movie a strong 9 out of 10.
Listeners are encouraged to check out other episodes of the podcast and follow on social media.
A special Lord of the Rings series with guest interviews is announced.

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