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Movie Reviews: Superman II (1980) & Superman III (1983)

After revisiting the movie that made audiences believe a man could fly, we're continuing the Christopher Reeve era with Superman II (1980) and Superman III (1983)—two sequels that take the Man of Steel in VERY different directions. ⚡ Superman II — General Zod, Ursa, and Non escape the Phantom Zone and arrive on Earth looking for revenge and domination. Meanwhile, Clark Kent faces an impossible choice between his powers and a life with Lois Lane. We break down Christopher Reeve's performance, Terence Stamp's unforgettable General Zod, the battle for Metropolis, Superman giving up his powers, and the complicated production history behind one of the most celebrated superhero sequels. 💻 Superman III — Things get weird! Richard Pryor joins the franchise as computer programmer Gus Gorman in a sequel that leans much further into comedy. We discuss Robert Vaughn's Ross Webster, the supercomputer finale, synthetic Kryptonite, Lana Lang's return to Clark's life, and one of the most memorable sequences of the entire Christopher Reeve era—Superman vs. Clark Kent! One Superman faces three Kryptonian enemies. The other faces his greatest opponent—himself.

Movie Reviews: Selma (2014) & The Karate Kid II (1986)

This week, we're pairing two films that might seem worlds apart but share more in common than you'd expect: Selma (2014) and The Karate Kid Part II (1986). ✊ Selma — Ava DuVernay's powerful historical drama takes us to the heart of the 1965 voting-rights campaign led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We discuss the film's performances, its depiction of the fight for equality, and how courage and perseverance drive a movement in the face of violence and overwhelming opposition. 🥋 The Karate Kid Part II — Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi leave California behind for Okinawa, where Miyagi must confront his past and Daniel discovers that karate means much more than winning a tournament. We break down the sequel's deeper focus on Miyagi, Daniel and Kumiko's relationship, Chozen's rivalry, and how the change of setting gives the franchise a very different kind of story. Two completely different movies. Two very different battles. One shared message about having the courage to stand your ground.

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Movie Reviews: Superman (1978) and Flash Gordon (1980)

This week, we're traveling from Metropolis to Mongo as we revisit two blockbusters from the dawn of the modern superhero era: Superman (1978) and Flash Gordon (1980)! 🦸‍♂️ Superman — "You'll believe a man can fly." Christopher Reeve puts on the cape in Richard Donner's landmark superhero adventure, taking us from the destruction of Krypton and Clark Kent's childhood in Smallville to his arrival in Metropolis. We discuss Reeve's iconic performance, Gene Hackman's Lex Luthor, Margot Kidder's Lois Lane, John Williams' legendary score, and how Superman helped establish the blueprint for the superhero movies that followed. ⚡ Flash Gordon — FLASH! AHH-AHH! Sam J. Jones blasts off for the planet Mongo in one of the most gloriously over-the-top sci-fi adventures of the '80s. We dive into Ming the Merciless, Brian Blessed's unforgettable Prince Vultan, the outrageous costumes and production design, the campy performances, and—of course—Queen's legendary soundtrack. Two heroes. Two unforgettable soundtracks. Two completely different visions of comic-book adventure.

Movie Reviews: Robin Hood (1973) & Wall-E (2008)

This week, we're jumping from the forests of medieval England to the far reaches of space as we review Robin Hood (1973) and WALL-E (2008). 🏹 Robin Hood — Oo-de-lally! Disney transforms the legendary outlaw into one seriously charming fox as Robin Hood and Little John battle Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham. We break down the memorable characters, catchy music, classic Disney humor, Robin and Maid Marian's romance, and why this underdog adventure has remained a nostalgic favorite for generations. 🤖 WALL-E — Centuries later, Earth has become a very different place. Pixar introduces us to a lonely little trash-compacting robot whose discovery of EVE sends him on an adventure that could determine humanity's future. We discuss the incredible visual storytelling, WALL-E and EVE's relationship, the film's environmental themes, Thomas Newman's score, and how Pixar created one of its most ambitious and emotional films. 🎙️ In this episode, we discuss: 🏹 Two Unlikely Heroes — a clever outlaw fox and a tiny trash-compacting robot who refuse to give up ❤️ Love Stories — Robin & Marian and WALL-E & EVE bring plenty of heart to both adventures 🌎 Fighting for a Better World — challenging Prince John's rule in Nottingham versus restoring humanity's abandoned home 🎨 Disney Animation Across Generations — comparing the hand-drawn style of 1973 with Pixar's groundbreaking computer animation 35 years later 🎵 Music & Storytelling — from "Oo-De-Lally" to WALL-E's largely dialogue-free opening 😂 Comedy, Heart & Adventure — how both movies balance laughs with surprisingly meaningful stories 🎥 Plus our favorite scenes, characters, fun facts, trivia, Easter eggs, and final ratings! Two animated classics. Two unlikely heroes. Two completely different eras of Disney. From Nottingham to the final frontier, it's time for another Jersey Nerds Disney double feature!

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Movie Reviews: Alien vs Predator (2004) & Alien vs Predator: Requiem (2007)

🎬The Jersey Nerds are back—and two of sci-fi's deadliest creatures are finally going head-to-head! This week, we're diving into the crossover that fans waited years to see as we review Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007). 👽 Alien vs. Predator — Whoever wins... we lose. An expedition beneath the Antarctic ice discovers an ancient pyramid hiding something far more dangerous than archaeology. We break down the first cinematic showdown between the Xenomorphs and Predators, the mythology connecting the two species, the Antarctic setting, the action, and whether AVP delivers on the crossover fans had imagined for years. 💀 Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem — The battle comes home. Picking up after the first film's cliffhanger, Requiem unleashes Xenomorphs, a Predator, and the terrifying Predalien on a small Colorado town. We discuss the sequel's darker horror approach, increased brutality, infamous lighting, the Predalien, and whether going bigger and bloodier actually made for a better AVP movie. 🎙️ In this episode, we discuss: 👽 Xenomorph vs. Predator — which creature comes out looking stronger? ⚔️ The Best Battles & Kills — our favorite moments from both crossover films 🏛️ Expanded Mythology — how AVP attempts to connect the histories of Aliens, Predators, and humanity 🏆 Franchise Rankings — where both movies land after our journey through the Alien and Predator universes Two legendary franchises. Two crossover movies. One ultimate battle.

Movie Reviews: The Karate Kid (1984) & Don Jon (2013)

🎬🥋 NEW EPISODE ALERT: The Jersey Nerds are back with another movie double feature! This week, we're pairing two very different New Jersey stories about young men trying to figure out who they want to be: The Karate Kid (1984) and Don Jon (2013). The Karate Kid — Daniel LaRusso leaves New Jersey for California and quickly discovers that fitting into his new home won't be easy. We break down Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita's unforgettable chemistry, Daniel's rivalry with Johnny Lawrence, Mr. Miyagi's unconventional training methods, the All Valley Tournament, and why this underdog story became an enduring '80s classic. Don Jon — Nearly 30 years later, Joseph Gordon-Levitt gives us a very different kind of Jersey protagonist. Jon seems to have everything figured out—his friends, family, relationships and routine—but his expectations about intimacy prevent him from building genuine connections. We discuss Gordon-Levitt's feature directorial debut, Scarlett Johansson and Julianne Moore's performances, and the film's exploration of fantasy versus reality. 🎙️ In this episode, we discuss: The Jersey Connection — Daniel LaRusso leaves Newark behind while Jon's identity is deeply rooted in North Jersey culture Relationships & Expectations — how Ali and Barbara initially represent each character's idea of the "perfect" relationship—and what they learn when reality doesn't match expectations Wax On, Wax Off — the training, tournament and unforgettable moments that turned The Karate Kid into a pop-culture phenomenon Plus our favorite scenes, performances, fun facts, trivia, and final ratings! Two Jersey guys. Two completely different journeys. One big lesson about growing up.

Movie Reviews: Predator-Killer of Killers (2025) & Predator - Badlands (2025)

This week, we're wrapping up our Predator retrospective with a look at the franchise's newest chapters: Predator: Killer of Killers (2025) and Predator: Badlands (2025). ⚔️ Predator: Killer of Killers — The franchise makes its animated debut with an action-packed anthology that spans generations of history. We discuss the stunning animation, brutal action, creative world-building, and how this unique entry expands Predator lore in ways we've never seen before. 🌍 Predator: Badlands — The hunt evolves once again as Dan Trachtenberg delivers a bold new vision for the series. We break down the film's unforgettable visuals, fresh perspective, expanded mythology, emotional storytelling, and whether this ambitious sequel cements the Predator franchise's resurgence. 🎙️ In this episode, we discuss: 👽 The future of the Predator universe 🔥 How both films expand the franchise mythology 🎨 The risks and rewards of an animated Predator story 🎥 Dan Trachtenberg's continued impact on the series 🏆 Our final Predator franchise rankings 💀 Favorite kills, creatures, and Predator designs From brutal battles across history to an unforgettable journey into the Badlands, the hunt has never looked better.

Movie Reviews: Se7en (1995) & Fight Club (1999)

The Jersey Nerds are back with another stop on our journey through some of cinema's greatest films! This week, we're diving into a David Fincher/Brad Pitt/90s double feature as we review Se7en (1995) and Fight Club (1999)—two films that helped define modern psychological thrillers and remain among the most influential movies ever made. Se7en — A relentless detective thriller that follows two detectives as they hunt a serial killer whose gruesome crimes are inspired by the Seven Deadly Sins. We break down Fincher's haunting atmosphere, unforgettable performances from Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, and Kevin Spacey, and discuss why its shocking ending still stands as one of the most iconic finales in film history. Fight Club — The cult classic that challenged consumerism, identity, and masculinity while delivering one of cinema's greatest plot twists. We explore the unforgettable performances from Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, and Helena Bonham Carter, unpack the film's deeper themes, and discuss how Fight Club evolved from a box office disappointment into one of the most celebrated cult films of all time. In this episode, we discuss: David Fincher's directing style The unforgettable performances and characters Where they rank among Fincher's greatest works Our final scores and franchise rankings Two legendary films. One visionary director. Endless discussion.

Movie Reviews: The Predator (2018) and Prey (2022)

The Jersey Nerds are back with another hunt through the Predator franchise! This week, we're taking on The Predator (2018) and Prey (2022)—two films that couldn't be more different. 💀 The Predator (2018) — Shane Black's ambitious sequel had all the ingredients for a franchise revival... so what went wrong? We break down the overcrowded story, questionable creative choices, memorable performances, and why this entry remains one of the series' most divisive films. 🏹 Prey (2022) — Then comes the comeback. Set in the 1700s, Prey strips the franchise back to its roots with a tense survival story, breathtaking action, and an incredible performance from Amber Midthunder. We discuss why many fans consider it the best Predator film since the original—and whether it tops the franchise for us. 🎙️ Along the way we cover: 👽 Franchise rankings 🔥 Favorite Predator moments 🎯 Why Prey deserved a theatrical release 💬 The evolution of the Predator across the series 🎥 Our final scores for both films Is Prey the Predator movie fans have been waiting decades for? And just how far did The Predator miss the mark?

2011: A Year in Movies

The Jersey Nerds are back with another deep dive into movie history, and this time we’re tackling 2011—a year that sparked plenty of debate! Was 2011 the weakest year in cinema during the 2010s, or does it deserve more credit than it gets? In this episode we discuss: 🎥 Our Top 10 Movies of 2011 The absolute WORST films of the year Why Drive sits at the top of the rankings Which Oscar contenders still hold up—and which don’t 🎙️ Plus plenty of laughs, disagreements, hot takes, and a preview of what’s coming next on the podcast! Whether you love 2011 or think it was one of Hollywood’s roughest years, this episode is packed with rankings, movie trivia, and spirited discussion. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!

Movie Reviews: Mortal Kombat (1995) & Call Me By Your Name (2017)

The Jersey Nerds are back with one of our most unexpected double features yet as we dive into Mortal Kombat and Call Me by Your Name. 🥋 Mortal Kombat (1995) — the video game adaptation that proved game-to-film movies could be fun. From unforgettable fight scenes and iconic characters to that legendary techno soundtrack, we revisit why this cult classic continues to win over fans more than 30 years later. 🍑 Call Me by Your Name — Luca Guadagnino’s beautifully crafted coming-of-age romance that captures the excitement, vulnerability, and heartbreak of first love. We discuss the breathtaking Italian setting, Timothée Chalamet’s acclaimed performance, the film’s emotional storytelling, and the unforgettable ending that lingers long after the credits roll. One tournament. One unforgettable summer. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough as we explore martial arts mayhem, heartfelt romance, standout performances, and why these two wildly different films have each earned a lasting place in modern cinema! 🍿🔥

Movie Reviews: Predator 2 (1990) & Predators (2010)

🎬 The Jersey Nerds are back for another hunt through the Predator franchise as we take on a deadly double feature: Predator 2 and Predators. 🏙️ Predator 2 (1990) — the hunt moves from the jungle to the urban battlefield of Los Angeles, where a new Predator stalks gangs, cops, and anyone unlucky enough to cross its path. We discuss the film’s expansion of Predator lore, Danny Glover’s underrated performance, and the iconic ending that changed the franchise forever. 🌎 Predators (2010) — a fresh twist on the formula that drops humanity’s deadliest killers onto an alien game preserve. From Adrien Brody’s unlikely action hero turn to the introduction of the Super Predators, we break down the film’s action, world-building, and why many fans consider it the best sequel after the original. Two hunts. Two battlefields. One legendary alien warrior. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough as we explore expanding Predator mythology, memorable kills, franchise connections, and where these films rank among the greatest hunts in sci-fi action history! 🔥👽💀

Movie Reviews: No Country For Old Men (2007) & There Will Be Blood (2007)

🎬 The Jersey Nerds are back with another stop on their cinematic journey, and this week we’re tackling two of the most acclaimed films of the 21st century: No Country for Old Men and There Will Be Blood. 🔫 No Country for Old Men — the Coen Brothers’ tense neo-western thriller that delivers unforgettable suspense, haunting themes, and one of cinema’s most terrifying villains. We dive into Anton Chigurh’s relentless pursuit, the film’s meditation on fate and violence, and why its ending continues to spark debate among movie fans. 🛢️ There Will Be Blood — Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic tale of ambition, greed, and obsession, featuring a career-defining performance from Daniel Day-Lewis. We break down Daniel Plainview’s rise to power, the film’s stunning cinematography, unforgettable score, and the explosive finale that cemented its place in film history. Two masterpieces. Two unforgettable antiheroes. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough as we explore the rivalry, ambition, violence, and moral decay that make these modern classics essential viewing! 🍿🔥

Alien: Romulus (2024) & Predator (1987) Movie Review

🎬👽The Jersey Nerds are back with another action-packed double feature — this time heading into the shadows of sci-fi horror with Alien: Romulus and Predator. 🛸 Alien: Romulus — a terrifying return to the claustrophobic horror of the Alien franchise, packed with facehuggers, xenomorph chaos, and deep-space dread. We break down the film’s atmosphere, brutal scares, franchise callbacks, and how it fits into the larger legacy of the series. 🌲 Predator — the ultimate jungle hunt that blends military action, sci-fi suspense, and one of cinema’s most iconic movie monsters. From Arnold Schwarzenegger’s legendary one-liners to the Predator’s unforgettable design, we revisit why this 1987 classic still hits so hard. Two deadly creatures. One sci-fi horror showdown. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough!

Random Movie Review: A Bug's Life (1998) & The Last Duel (2021)

🎬🗽 New Episode Alert: The Jersey Nerds are back with another unforgettable double feature — this time diving into the wildly different worlds of A Bug’s Life and The Last Duel. 🐜 A Bug’s Life — Pixar’s colorful underdog adventure filled with heart, humor, and surprisingly timeless themes about courage, leadership, and standing up to oppression. We revisit the film’s iconic characters, emotional moments, and why it remains one of Pixar’s most underrated classics. ⚔️ The Last Duel — Ridley Scott’s gripping medieval epic based on true events, packed with betrayal, shifting perspectives, and one of the most intense final battles in recent film history. We break down the film’s Rashomon-style storytelling, powerhouse performances, and the themes of truth, power, and justice that make it so compelling. One animated classic. One brutal historical drama. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough!

Prometheus (2012) & Alien: Covenant (2017) Review!

🎬👽 PRESS PLAY ACTION returns to the darkest corners of deep space as we continue our exploration of the legendary Alien universe with a chilling double feature review of Prometheus and Alien: Covenant. 🧬 Prometheus — Ridley Scott’s ambitious sci-fi mystery that dares to ask humanity’s biggest questions: Where did we come from? And what happens when our creators want us dead? We dive into the film’s stunning visuals, philosophical themes, terrifying discoveries, and the endless debates surrounding its deeper meaning. ☠️ Alien: Covenant — a brutal descent back into horror as synthetic nightmares, deadly creatures, and humanity’s arrogance collide in one of the franchise’s darkest chapters. From shocking kills to David’s terrifying evolution, we break down the film’s most disturbing moments and discuss whether it succeeds as both a prequel and an Alien film. Two films. One visionary director. Endless existential terror 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough!

Shutter Island (2010) & The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) Reviews!

🎬🗽 New Episode Alert: The Jersey Nerds are back with another stop on their IMDB Top 250 journey! This week, it’s a Martin Scorsese / Leonardo DiCaprio double feature as we dive into Shutter Island (2010) and The Wolf of Wall Street (2013). 🧠 Shutter Island — a psychological thriller packed with mystery, twists, and one of DiCaprio’s most intense performances. We unpack the film’s layered storytelling, haunting atmosphere, and that ending everyone debates. 💰 The Wolf of Wall Street — a wild, chaotic ride through excess, ambition, and moral collapse. From unforgettable scenes to iconic one-liners, we break down why this film remains one of Scorsese’s most talked-about hits. Two films. One legendary director-actor duo. Endless discussion 🎙️ 🎧 Tune in now and join the watchthrough!

Alien 3 (1992) & Alien: Resurrection (1997) Review!

The Jersey Nerds are diving deeper into the Alien franchise with two of its more divisive chapters; Alien 3 (1992) and Alien: Resurrection (1997). Love them or hate them, these movies sparked some serious debate!

Alien (1979) & Aliens (1986) Review!

The Jersey Nerds dive into the origins of sci-fi horror with Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986). From groundbreaking practical effects to unforgettable creature design, these films laid the foundation for one of the most iconic franchises in movie history. Whether you're team Alien or Aliens, this episode is packed with insights, hot takes, and plenty of love for sci-fi classics.

Drunken Cinema Corner: Drink #2

The drinks are poured, the plan is nonexistent, and somehow… the takes might be even better. In this unhinged episode of Drunken Cinema Corner, the Jersey Nerds dive headfirst into a free-flowing, booze-fueled conversation that bounces between film history, hot takes, and wild “what if” scenarios that Hollywood probably shouldn’t try—but definitely could. Like and Follow Press Play Action on our socials listed below: Website: https://pressplayactionpodcast.transistor.fm Facebook: www.facebook.com/pressplayaction Instagram: www.instagram.com/pressplayactionpodcast TikTok: @jerseynerdsproductions Mastadon: @jerseynerdsproductions BlueSky: @pressplayaction.bsky.social Twitter: www.x.com/pressplayact1on Letterboxd: www.letterboxd.com/jerseynerds