Franchise Detours (Crooked Table Productions)

With Rocky IV taking the franchise to new commercial heights, the film represented, in some ways, the biggest victory yet for both writer/director/star Sylvester Stallone and his fictional counterpart. However, that success — which saw the scale of the franchise expand to international levels — might have set unfair expectations for the future.

Enter Rocky V. On one hand, the return of the original film's director, John G. Avildsen, signaled a return to Rocky's roots as an underdog, as the champ finds himself back in the neighborhood and searching for relevance. But audiences and critics at the time didn't appreciate this seemingly more downbeat approach, perhaps sensing the magic of the series was missing.

Pete of Middle Class Film Class joins us to discuss what was once intended as the finale of the Rocky series, 1990's Rocky V. We'll discuss whether the film deserves its lackluster reputation, how it inadvertently sets up subsequent movies, and why the surprise addition of one cast member carries so much weight. So lace up those gloves and join our discussion.

Playtime is just about over. After seven wild films, 2017's Cult of Chucky brings our inaugural mega-series to a close. And writer-director Don Mancini takes an appropriately go-for-broke approach with (so far) Chucky's final cinematic outing.

In the final episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, film critic Angie Aguayo joins us to talk Cult of Chucky. We'll discuss how the film revolutionizes the franchise, the many returning characters who come to play, and how the movie sets up Chucky's future.

Of course, USA/Syfy's Chucky is already building on what Cult of Chucky sets up. Angie and I delve into what we hope to see there as well. Perhaps when season 1 concludes, we'll reconvene for a review of Chucky. But for now, listen in as Angie and I, however briefly, join the Cult of Chucky.

SYNOPSIS
In writer-director Don Mancini's follow-up to 2013's Curse of Chucky, the killer doll (voiced by Brad Dourif) returns to terrorize survivor Nica Pierce. This time around, Nica is confined to an asylum for the criminally insane after taking the fall for Chucky's crimes. Meanwhile, Chucky has some scores to settle with his old nemesis, Andy Barclay (Alex Vincent).

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Once you've done Ebenezer Scrooge, the next logical step is Long John Silver, right? That's what Disney, Jim Henson Productions, and director Brian Henson apparently thought. After the success of 1992's The Muppet Christmas Carol, the Muppets stuck with literary adaptations, this time plugging them into Robert Louis Stevenson's 1883 novel Treasure Island.

On this episode, screenwriter and actor Bri Azmoudeh joins us to talk all about 1996's Muppet Treasure Island. We'll discuss why making a pirate movie in the mid-1990s was such a bold move, how Henson's film works as an adaptation of Stevenson's book, and -- naturally -- the splendor that is the great Tim Curry's performance as the duplicitous Long John Silver.

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As we approach the halfway point of our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mega-series, we bid a final farewell to the live-action turtles. Following the defeat of the Shredder in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze, the filmmakers had a big decision to make with regard to the story of the third film. Their answer? Send the turtles to feudal Japan!

On this episode, Philip Boone of the Ultimate Gilmore Girls Movie Night podcast joins Franchise Detours to talk all about 1993's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III. We'll discuss the movie's long-rumored subtitle, those downgraded turtle costumes, and all those pop culture references. In the end though, is the third TMNT film worth a revisit? Let's discuss!

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After exploring time travel and creating a shared universe with X-Men: Days of Future Past, where could the sequel go next? Why, the gods, of course! For better or worse, 2016's X-Men: Apocalypse pits the Marvel mutants against their most formidable enemy yet: a big, blue Oscar Isaac.

In this episode, Clare Brunton of W-Rated helps us uncover the truth behind director Bryan Singer's most divisive X-Men installment. We'll discuss whether the movie is actually unjustly hated, how it serves as a prequel to Singer's original trilogy, and whether Isaac's performance hurts or helps.

Join us as we journey back to the Apocalypse and decide whether the movie lives up to its name. Is this where the X-Films finally jumped the shark?

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Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, mainstream comedies were dominated by just one man: Judd Apatow. As a writer, director, and/or producer, Apatow was behind many of the biggest hits of the era, including classics such as Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, Superbad, Bridesmaids, The Big Sick, and -- as we've previously discussed -- The 40-Year-Old Virgin.

Now Kai Yaniz returns to discuss 2007's Knocked Up and its "sort-of sequel," 2012's This Is 40. Apatow wrote and directed both movies, which have a lot to say about parenthood, relationships, and how time affects them. We'll discuss whether these movies still hold up, weigh in on Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd's performances, and reveal our personal connection to them.

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Kids growing up in the late 1980s/early 1990s had almost no choice but to love Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. From their love of martial arts to their passion for pizza, those heroes on a half-shell were a legitimate cultural touchstone, thanks to their animated series and, yes, the 1990 motion picture that brought the turtles to the big screen for the first time.

In this episode, we kick off a whole new mega-series as we skateboard through the turtles' cinematic history, beginning with a chat all about that very first movie. We'll discuss where director Steve Barron's original vision could've taken the movie, how it splits the difference between the Mirage comics and the animated show, and why it still holds up so damn well.

So pick up a slice, sharpen your sai, and prepare to stomp out the Foot as we geek out about 1990's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! Cowabunga indeed.

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After Army of Darkness, the Evil Dead franchise lay mostly dormant for decades. Then news of a remake broke. But fans certainly weren't ready for the intense experience that is director Fede Álvarez's 2013 Evil Dead.

On this episode, film critic Angie Aguayo joins the show, as we discuss whether Evil Dead 2013 is a remake or sequel, the underrated strength of Jane Levy's performance, and how it builds on Sam Raimi's 1981 classic.

SYNOPSIS
Mia (Jane Levy), a drug addict, is determined to kick the habit. To that end, she asks her brother David (Shiloh Fernandez), his girlfriend Natalie (Elizabeth Blackmore), and their friends Olivia (Jessica Lucas) and Eric (Lou Taylor Pucci) to accompany her to their family's remote forest cabin to help her through withdrawal. Eric finds a mysterious Book of the Dead at the cabin and reads aloud from it, awakening an ancient demon. All hell breaks loose when the malevolent entity possesses Mia.

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Congratulations! You've successfully relaunched the Rocky series for a whole new generation, perfectly encapsulating what made the franchise great while updating it for a modern sensibility. So, now what? Where is a sequel to a legacy sequel to go next? That's the task ahead for Creed II.

With Steven Caple Jr. stepping in for Ryan Coogler as director, the second film follows Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) as he claims the title, only to find the past creeping its way back. None other than Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren) — who killed Donnie's father in the ring — and his boxer son Viktor (Florian Munteanu) reappear with a showdown in mind.

Jason of Binge Movies joins Franchise Detours to discuss 2018's Creed II for an epic-length chat. We'll cover whether the film is helped or hindered by its ties to 1985's Rocky IV, how it undermines its theme of fathers and sons, and if it serves as a fitting final appearance for Sylvester Stallone's Rocky.

This may be the swan song for "The Italian Stallion" on the big screen. So join us for a heart-wrenching journey through the entire Rocky franchise to date. Next up? The most recent entry, 2023's Stallone-less Creed III!

After The Avengers, superhero cinema has never been the same. Suddenly, everything needed to be interconnected, featuring tons of characters and an increasingly complicated timeline. Naturally, the X-Men series retroactively created its own shared universe of sorts with X-Men: Days of Future Past.

Fourteen years after the first film, director Bryan Singer's film combined the original trilogy cast and that of X-Men: First Class to create a time-travel adventure that raised the bar for what Marvel's mutants could do onscreen. Or at the very least, it put pressure on the series to be more ambitious.

Film critic Rosa Parra joins Franchise Detours to travel back to 2014's X-Men: Days of Future Past, a movie that feels like even more of a wild swing nearly a decade later. We'll discuss its unique place in the series, that epic cast, and how this installment may have doomed the series going forward.

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It's impossible to imagine a world without Eddie Murphy. Throughout his career, he evolved from stand-up comic to Saturday Night Live breakout and finally, an Academy Award-nominated A-list movie star. And though Murphy had appeared in a few previous films, his ascension to the comedy star hall of fame didn't truly kick into gear until 1984's Beverly Hills Cop.

On this episode, Phoenix Clouden of Film Code joins us to discuss how director Martin Brest's action-comedy redefined the genre for the modern age, how it serves as an unlikely launchpad for Murphy's own stardom, and -- of course -- the iconic theme song. So cue up your Harold Faltermeyer (or Crazy Frog, if you prefer) as we start our Beverly Hills Cop mega-series!

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Six years and one major studio acquisition later, Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool finally joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But after Deadpool seemingly shattered the superhero movie formula and Deadpool 2 doubled-down on the scale of the Merc with the Mouth's particular corner of the universe, where could "Deadpool 3" go to keep upping the ante? In a word, *SNIKT*.

After years of development, it was the addition of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine that finally helped Reynolds and director Shawn Levy (Free Guy, Real Steel) crack the code that ultimately led to the first Marvel Studios' billion-dollar grosser since the similarly multiverse-centric Spider-Man: No Way Home. But does this third entry confirm Deadpool as Marvel Jesus?

Chauncey Telese of LA Podfidential joins us to discuss Deadpool & Wolverine as it continues its rampage through theaters. We'll chat about how the franchise makes the shift to the MCU, whether those surprise characters add or distract from the story at hand, and where the film's conclusion leaves the title characters amid the upcoming MCU slate.

Long before Franchise Detours began, the Rocky/Creed series was well on our radar. Following the Crooked Table Podcast's (now Close Watch) monthly coverage of the Star Wars and Harry Potter films, "The Italian Stallion" was eyed as the next long-running, beloved series to take the spotlight. Alas, plans changed, and we didn't enter the ring until now.

At last, we tackle the 1976 classic that is Rocky. One of only four franchise films to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, the film—directed by John G. Avildsen (The Karate Kid)—introduced Sylvester Stallone's leading-man status and has left an indelible mark on the industry in the nearly five decades since it first hit the big screen.

Lauren Knight from That Movie Is Fine joins us to chat about the enduring legacy of Rocky. We'll discuss how its themes still resonate today, why Stallone needed to write his own star-making project, and how the film lays the groundwork for what has become a decades-long character study. More about people than boxing, Rocky is so much more than a sports movie.

Join us to discover why Rocky still justifies the cultural phenomenon it created. We bet you'll be jogging up the nearest staircase in no time.

Tom Cruise made his film debut in 1981's Endless Love. But it wasn't until five years later in Top Gun that Cruise truly emerged as an A-list leading man. That film -- directed by the late Tony Scott -- sparked a phenomenon that has endured for more than three decades. Case in point, 2022's long-awaited sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, became the year's biggest hit.

On this episode, film critic and podcaster Karen Peterson of Citizen Dame and The Watch and Talk joins us to talk the legacy of both films. We'll discuss how Top Gun developed into a franchise, what the two movies say about Cruise's career, Top Gun: Maverick's wild box office run and awards chances, and explore whether we'd want to see a third installment.

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Prior to its release, no one quite knew what to make of Rise of the Planet of the Apes. But after it became one of 2011's biggest surprise hits, it was clear just how much life was left in the decades-old sci-fi franchise. With its sequel, returning star Andy Serkis and director Matt Reeves (Cloverfield, Let Me In) raised the emotional stakes and spectacle even higher.

Jason from Binge Movies makes his long-awaited Franchise Detours debut to dig into 2014's Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. We'll discuss what Reeves -- who, most recently, put his stamp on The Batman -- brings to the franchise, Serkis' stunning (and awards-worthy) lead performance as Caesar, and why Dawn doesn't receive the credit it deserves.

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On its face, Happy Death Day feels very much like a slasher movie spin of 1993's time-loop comedy Groundhog Day. While it is that, director Christopher Landon manages to transcend that premise to create one of the best horror-comedies in recent years and a truly underrated sequel.

On this episode, Robert Stewart of Stew World Order joins the show to talk not only about 2017's Happy Death Day but its 2019 sequel, Happy Death Day 2U. We'll talk about Jessica Rothe's standout performance, how the franchise crosses genre lines, and what we want from Happy Death Day 3.

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Test your might with episode 2 of Franchise Detours. From the 1992 debut of the video game series, Mortal Kombat has given fans the over-the-top violence, wild characters, and button-mashing gameplay they crave. Oh, yeah, and Hollywood made a few movies based on it too. This episode, David Rosen of Piecing It Together helps us break down the Mortal Kombat movie franchise.

We'll discuss how the games were adapted into the 1995 movie, its notorious sequel, and even the 2021 reboot. How have the movies changed their approach to the property over the years? And ultimately, which best captures the experience of delivering those sweet fatalities? Time to blast that iconic theme music.

Given its title, Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare seemingly plunged the final nail into the coffin of Robert Englund's infamous horror villain. And yet, it was ultimately Wes Craven — writer-director of the original A Nightmare on Elm Street — who gave Freddy Krueger a new lease on life.

Film professor and author Ryan L. Terry joins Franchise Detours to slash our way through 1994's Wes Craven's New Nightmare. We'll discuss how the film celebrates the tenth anniversary of the original film, why it was a box office disappointment, and how it shaped the next phase of horror.

As the only installment not in continuity with the rest of the A Nightmare on Elm Street films, Wes Craven’s New Nightmare marks a true "franchise detour.” So curl up for a dark tale as we reunite with Craven, Englund, Heather Langenkamp, and John Saxon for a nightmare unlike any other.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine was meant to slash open a whole new avenue for the X-Men movie franchise. Yet, despite its commercial performance, the tepid reception ultimately led the series to take another approach: going back to basics with a fresh start on the whole mutant saga.

In hindsight, it might seem like 2011's X-Men: First Class was always meant to be a prequel to the previous films. But director Matthew Vaughn described it as a reboot of the franchise. So which is it? And ultimately, does it even matter when the resulting superhero adventure is that much fun?

Kevin the Critic joins Franchise Detours as we head back to school for an in-depth chat about X-Men: First Class. We'll discuss the chemistry between James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender, how the story quietly retcons the series, and whether Vaughn deserves another crack at the Marvel mutants.

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Escape from the Planet of the Apes set the franchise off on a brand-new course. And the sequel -- released just over a year after its predecessor -- follows the ape Caesar (Roddy McDowall, as a new character) as he plays a pivotal role in humanity's downfall in Conquest of the Planet of the Apes.

Ryan Luis Rodriguez of One Track Mind joins the show to discuss this 1972 edition of the long-running Planet of the Apes franchise. We'll discuss McDowall's ability to transform into an entirely new ape character, the movie's more on-the-nose than ever social commentary, and whether this film should have ended this initial era of Planet of the Apes.

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Hugh Jackman's Wolverine has always been a fan favorite. But X-Men Origins: Wolverine called into question whether the mutant hero would get the opportunity to carry more than a single solo film. Thankfully, Jackman's desire to take Logan to Japan paid off in the form of 2013's The Wolverine.

Adapting one of the character's most popular storylines, the movie marks a departure from its predecessor, tying more closely in with X-Men: The Last Stand than the first Wolverine film. It also marks James Mangold's first time directing an X-Men movie, a decision which paid off remarkably years later.

Ryan Luis Rodriguez of One Track Mind joins us to break down The Wolverine. We'll talk about how it draws inspiration from what's come before — including X-Men Origins: Wolverine — bemoan the lack of Rila Fukushima's Yukio in future projects, and that CGI-heavy third act.

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Continuing our genre-blending trek through the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, we’re locking and loading for a deep dive into the explosive Hot Fuzz. Armed with sharp wit and a barrage of bullets, this entry takes aim at action movie conventions with a dash of murder mystery thrown in.

Joining us is Lauren Robinson of the Beer’d Al Podcast. We’ll explore how Hot Fuzz balances adrenaline-fueled action with moments of genuine camaraderie and heart. With a plot as twisted as Sandford's country roads, the film is a testament to director Edgar Wright and star Simon Pegg.

So buckle up for a ride-along with Franchise Detours as we navigate the action, the laughs and the legacy of Hot Fuzz. Let's discuss the film’s intricate comedy, its homage to action classics, and the subtext hidden beneath its surface. Join us, won't you? After all, it’s all for the greater good.

Chucky made some friends. Ash got groovy with Deadites. Now it's time for Freddy Krueger to slash his way into the spotlight, as we kick off Franchise Detours' first horror mega-series since 2021 with an in-depth chat about writer/director Wes Craven's 1984 classic A Nightmare on Elm Street.

In keeping with tradition, screenwriter/actor Bri Azmoudeh — who previously joined us for Child's Play and The Evil Dead — returns to welcome another horror franchise to the show. We'll explore the legacy of Freddy Krueger, why he endures, and how Craven's vision still holds up.

As A Nightmare on Elm Street celebrates its 40th anniversary, grab your crucifix, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and stay awake with us as we dissect how this groundbreaking film left an indelible mark on the horror genre and how it continues to influence filmmakers four decades later.

Thanks to A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, Freddy Krueger became as popular as ever. The Springwood Slasher was suddenly a household name, leading to an increased focus on his macabre sense of humor. The result is the entry often known as the "MTV Nightmare."

Kevin the Critic returns to the show to discuss director Renny Harlin's A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master. We'll discuss which lessons it learns from its predecessor, how it shifts focus to a new final girl and why one particular sequence is undeniably the Kill of the Week.

Join us as we dissect A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master’s legacy as — for better or worse — a turning point. The highest-grossing entry until Freddy vs Jason, this one isn't as discussed as others. But let's tumble into a nightmarish wonderland with our own Alice (Lisa Wilcox).

Fifteen years after Sam Raimi concluded his Spider-Man trilogy, the Evil Dead filmmaker is back in the Marvel family with Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. But as audiences re-discover just how damn great Raimi is at bringing comic books to life, we're taking a look at perhaps his most misunderstood film, 2007's Spider-Man 3.

On this episode, Brian Skutle of the Sonic Cinema Podcast joins the show to break down what the haters are missing about Spider-Man 3. We'll discuss which villain should have been left out of the movie, how it builds and subverts the stories of its predecessors, and why it means so much to Brian personally. Of course, this is the end of our Spider-Man mega-series. So we'll discover which of Raimi's three web-slinging adventures reigns supreme.

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On paper, the introduction of an evil doppelganger for Kermit the Frog sounds like a worthy addition to the Muppet mythos. So why didn't the much-anticipated sequel to 2011's The Muppets connect with audiences? With the characters' popularity seemingly restored, Muppets Most Wanted saw Disney deflate this "viable franchise" soon after its reintroduction.

Brandon from the Film Code Podcast joins the final episode of our Muppets mega-series as we investigate how Muppets Most Wanted failed to renew the fan goodwill of its predecessor. We'll discuss all those celebrity cameos (Lady Gaga! Tom Hiddleston!), what Constantine reveals about Kermit's role in the Muppets, and how Disney can reinvigorate the future of the Muppets.

Also, we'll reveal which of the eight theatrical Muppet films our guests think is the pinnacle of the characters' big-screen career!

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Mad Max rewrote the rules when it came to action movies back in 1979. And with each sequel, George Miller continued to raise the bar higher. So naturally, Mad Max: Fury Road is the culmination of all that came before it.

On this episode, filmmaker and music producer David Snyder joins the show as we talk about how Miller once again redefined a genre with Mad Max: Fury Road and what we hope to see in Miller's Furiosa prequel.

SYNOPSIS

Years after the collapse of civilization, the tyrannical Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne) enslaves apocalypse survivors inside the desert fortress the Citadel. When the warrior Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) leads the despot's five wives in a daring escape, she forges an alliance with Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy), a loner and former captive. Fortified in the massive, armored truck the War Rig, they try to outrun the ruthless warlord and his henchmen in a deadly high-speed chase through the Wasteland.

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After the mixed reception to A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge, the franchise turned to series creator Wes Craven and original star Heather Langenkamp. As our eight-part Freddy-led mega-series continues, we arrive at 1987's fan-favorite A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors.

Podcaster Deanna Chapman joins us to discuss how director Chuck Russell's installment serves as a pivotal entry in Freddy Krueger's saga. We’ll discuss why the movie is so beloved by fans, how it soft-resets the series' focus, and how it uses supernatural threats to tap into real-life psychological horrors.

So join us as we delve into A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. We’ll explore the film’s innovative special effects, its dynamic characters, and how it turned the tables on Freddy, giving the Elm Street children a fighting chance. It’s an episode you won’t want to sleep through.

He's not just the best there is. He's the only one there is. But who, really is Ace Ventura? In a pair of 1990s comedies, Jim Carrey introduced the world to the famed pet detective. But those two films present seemingly completely different takes on the character. What do they each teach us about the popular comedy lead, and how do they hold up in 2021?

On Franchise Detours episode 1, guest Lauren Carey of the Beer'd Al Podcast and I try to uncover whether Ace is a hero or a looo-hooo-zuh-her. We'll cover both Carrey-led vehicles and the shuddering-inducing 2009 spin-off Ace Ventura: Pet Detective Jr. Lastly, we'll share what we hope to see from a new Ace Ventura film, following reports the franchise might return.

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Eighteen years have passed since The Matrix trilogy. Now director Lana Wachowski returns -- with Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss back as Neo and Trinity -- with The Matrix Resurrections. And here's our raw review.

On this episode, Rob weighs in on how this fourth installment in The Matrix franchise stacks up with the previous films, how it builds on what's come before, where it might lead, and whether it meets his expectations.

SYNOPSIS
Return to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it. To find out if his reality is a construct, to truly know himself, Thomas Anderson (Keanu Reeves) will have to choose to follow the white rabbit once more.

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​​Crooked Table Productions is back with a brand-new podcast!

Franchise Detours -- a whole-new show focused on movie franchises -- is right around the corner. And in this introductory episode, host Robert Yaniz Jr. will lay out the inspiration behind the show, what listeners can expect in the coming months, and tease the first two "mega-series" on the way.

We believe no movie series travels in a straight line. Don't believe us? Hop in and hear for yourself, as Franchise Detours hits the road.

The claws are out and the adamantium is gleaming as we dive into the final chapter in the Wolverine trilogy. Hugh Jackman's iconic portrayal of the mutant hero faced a bumpy road in his solo films. But was 2017's Logan, featuring returning The Wolverine director James Mangold, worth the wait?

Fans wondered if they'd ever see the character's true potential on the big screen. Fortunately, Jackman's determination to bring Logan's story to a fitting conclusion paid off. In Logan, we witness an aging, world-weary Wolverine confronting his past and grappling with his own mortality.

Film critic Catherine Gonzales joins us to dissect the gritty world of Logan. We'll explore how it ties into the broader X-Men universe, the character's journey throughout the franchise, and the film's impact on the superhero genre. Moreover, we'll weigh in on Wolverine's return in Deadpool 3.

Join us as we celebrate the Wolverine's final and most poignant outing, discussing the legacy of Logan and its place in cinematic history.

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Walt Disney is a name that has become synonymous with family entertainment. But back when Disney himself was running the company, the studio was pushing the boundaries of feature animation. And perhaps few films are as much of a testament to that as 1940's Fantasia.

Brian Skutle of Sonic Cinema joins the show to discuss that film's ground-breaking blend of classical music and animated storytelling. We'll discuss the evolution of the Fantasia project, its legacy, and its long-awaited 1999 follow-up, Fantasia 2000, as well as our hopes for more Fantasia soon.

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Deadpool. That sounds like a f**king franchise. Right? After the character's big-screen debut (kinda) in 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine, it sure didn't seem that way. Ryan Reynolds' take on Marvel Comics' fourth wall-breaking quasi-superhero Wade Wilson aka Deadpool seemed like it had its one shot. Then some leaked footage later, the Merc with the Mouth got a new life.

Following our X-Men mega-series from 2023, we return to the world of Marvel's mutants with a mega-series all about what will soon be the Deadpool trilogy. Of course, we'll kick it off this episode with the film that started it all, from first-time director Tim Miller. Listen as Jeff Johnson and Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows join us to touch all over 2016's Deadpool.

We'll discuss why the film pushed the boundaries of the superhero genre, how its meta-commentary has aged, and why it is perhaps exactly what Marvel and the X-Men films needed. We'll also chat in-depth about Reynolds, who championed the project and has leveraged the success of Deadpool to propel his career in Hollywood to new heights.

Beneath its snark and violence, there’s also real heart in Deadpool. Wade’s romance with Vanessa (Morena Baccarin) adds emotional depth. And in this episode, we'll uncover that Deadpool is, really and truly, a love story. So whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan or recently caught up with Deadpool ahead of the upcoming release of the third film, cue the music and enjoy!

George Miller started the Mad Max franchise as an indie filmmaker. But by the third film, Hollywood was ready to enter the Wasteland with Mel Gibson's title character facing off against music icon Tina Turner.

On this episode, Megan Kearns of Spoilerpiece Theatre joins the show as we talk about Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome. We'll discuss how the movie continues the series' evolution, its PG-13 rating, and why it's so underrated.

SYNOPSIS

In the third of the Mad Max movies, Max (Mel Gibson) drifts into Bartertown, ruled by Aunty Entity (Tina Turner). There he becomes a gladiator and gets dumped in the desert where he is rescued by a band of feral orphans who have been looking for help for years. When several of them take his appearance as a sign and go off into the desert, he follows them back to the town.

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The Muppet Movie took Kermit the Frog and company from The Muppet Show all the way to Hollywood. But beyond the "approximate" story of how the Muppets got together, what does everyone's favorite group of frogs, pigs, bears, and whatevers do with their "rich and famous contracts"? The Great Muppet Caper, that's what.

Ryan Luis Rodriguez of The Coolness Chronicles and Reels of Justice joins our Muppets mega-series as we break down Jim Henson's feature directorial debut. We'll discuss how it pays tribute to classic Hollywood musicals, why Kermit isn't actually the main character, and whether The Great Muppet Caper is superior to its predecessor.

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Franchise Detours partly kicked off with a Chucky-centric mini-series because of how the horror franchise continually mutates over time. And with this episode, we bid farewell to the first permutation of the killer doll's wild exploits. It's time for one last chapter of the Chucky and Andy story as we discuss 1991's Child's Play 3.

In the third episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Brandon Stanwyck of Fearsome Queer breaks down Child's Play 3, often considered the black sheep of the franchise. We'll discuss why some fans discount this installment, the film's notable steps toward queer themes, and the breadcrumbs series writer Don Mancini sets up for the future.

Listen in as we close the book on the Child's Play trilogy. And prepare to meet Chucky's bride in our very next episode.

Then be sure to check out Brandon's ranking of every single kill in the franchise over on FearsomeQueer.net.

SYNOPSIS
It's been years since Chucky (voiced by Brad Dourif) was apparently destroyed in a fire at a doll factory. Now Chucky's manufacturer is remaking the same line of toys with the old, still haunted materials. This resurrects Chucky, who goes after Andy (Justin Whalin), his former owner, who now attends military school. Chucky slashes his way through a string of grotesque murders as Andy tries to stop the homicidal doll and the spirit within it.

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Despite the less-than-enthusiastic response from fans and critics, 2006's trilogy-ending X-Men: The Last Stand did at least offer fans something of a sense of closure (that final shot and post-credits scene notwithstanding). But it also outperformed its two predecessors at the box office. So it didn't take long for Fox to begin exploring ways to extend the franchise.

On paper, a solo film exploring the dark backstory of Hugh Jackman's fan-favorite character was the obvious way to continue. At the time, such a film was meant to start a whole subset of X-Men Origins movies featuring different beloved characters. But 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine didn't exactly deliver the strong kickoff the studio or fans hoped for.

Jose Lopez Jr. joins the show to help us break down one of the most maligned entries in the X-Men franchise. We'll discuss whether X-Men Origins: Wolverine does right by Jackman's mysterious mutant, the behind-the-scenes drama, the addition of Liev Schreiber as Sabretooth, and -- of course -- Ryan Reynolds' inauspicious debut as "Deadpool."

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As the end of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series draws near, we gear up to talk Evil Dead. But how do you segue into a movie series about a dark supernatural force that maims, kills, and destroys everything it touches? With a stage musical, of course!

In this bonus episode, I'll briefly discuss my experience checking out Evil Dead: The Musical at the local Stageworks Theatre here in Tampa, Florida. Give a listen to hear my review of the show and how it ties into the larger franchise created by Sam Raimi.

Stay tuned for lots more Evil Dead talk in the coming weeks!

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Evil Dead was only the second mega-series Franchise Detours covered. So it's only right that, with writer-director Lee Cronin's Evil Dead Rise now in theaters, we take a franchise u-turn back to that series. After a full decade of rest from the big screen, what are those pesky Deadites up to this time?

Rob briefly interrupts the ongoing Planet of the Apes mega-series to touch base with the latest Evil Dead film. He'll discuss his spoiler-filled thoughts on the movie, speculate what it could set up for the future of Evil Dead, and share some feedback from friends of the show regarding Evil Dead Rise.

Piecing It Together’s EVIL DEAD RISE live show:
https://www.piecingpod.com/2023/03/30/live-show-april-21st-in-las-vegas-nv/

Matt Donato’s IGN review of EVIL DEAD RISE:
https://www.ign.com/articles/evil-dead-rise-review

Sara Michelle Fetters’ MovieFreak review of EVIL DEAD RISE:
http://moviefreak.com/evil-dead-rise-2023-movie-review/

Ryan Luis Rodriguez’s Letterboxd review of EVIL DEAD RISE:
https://letterboxd.com/onetrackmind/film/evil-dead-rise/

Suns and Shadows non-spoiler review for EVIL DEAD RISE: https://youtu.be/0oyhT7oHnlk

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It was a dark time for moviegoers. After Muppets from Space failed to meet expectations, the Muppets took an extended break from the big screen. But following Disney's acquisition of the characters in 2004, they finally made their long-awaited return to cinemas with 2011's The Muppets. And judging by the box office receipts, the world welcomed them back with open arms.

Film critic Dede Crimmins joins the show to talk about the Disney-produced legacy sequel that (temporarily) restored Kermit and friends to their former glory. We'll talk about how Walter (performed by Peter Linz) brings a fresh perspective to the franchise in The Muppets, the film's balance of human and Muppet characters, and Kermit and Miss Piggy's relationship status.

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1968's Planet of the Apes was a watershed moment for science fiction cinema and, in hindsight, franchise filmmaking. But what lies beneath? That's the focus of this episode, as we take a look at the first of many sequels to attempt to on the original Planet of the Apes film.

Jeremiah Stewart of Let's Talk helps us dig into 1970's Beneath the Planet of the Apes. We'll discuss how the film deals with Charlton Heston's limited screen time, its deliberate efforts to sideline the apes themselves, and that jaw-dropping ending that seemingly leaves no room for a follow-up.

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2014's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles seemingly kicked off a whole new era of movies starring the title heroes. But after its solid box office performance, the sequel -- 2016's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows -- still struggled to keep that momentum going.

Clare from W-Rated joins this final installment of our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mega-series. We'll discuss what is (at least, for the moment) the final TMNT movie, why its reputation is perhaps a bit too harsh, where we wanted a third film would have gone, and what we want going forward.

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How do you follow a classic like A Nightmare on Elm Street? That was the task director Jack Sholder and star Mark Patton faced with A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge. Released less than a year later, the sequel dared to do something darker and very different, with wildly mixed results.

Brandon Stanwyck of Fearsome Queer helps us break down the controversy behind A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge. We'll reckon with the film's complicated legacy, acknowledge its ambitious themes and bold creative choices, and attempt to put it into a better context for today's fans.

The movie’s exploration of identity and fear strikes a different chord than its predecessor, making it a fascinating entry to revisit. So sharpen your claws and prepare to dive into A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge as we unravel the mystery behind Freddy’s second appearance.

We finally really did it. After spending the past several episodes with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Franchise Detours sticks to the world of anthropomorphic animals and prosthetic make-up for its longest mega-series yet: Planet of the Apes.

On this episode, Thomas Greene of Perpetual Cinema joins the show to discuss the 1968 film that started it all. We'll discuss how the movie marks a turning point for science fiction, its iconic twist ending, and how it ultimately emerged into an unlikely franchise.

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Twenty-three years have passed since the mutants of Marvel Comics made their big-screen debut. And it's an understatement to say the cinematic landscape has itself mutated since X-Men hit theaters. So on this 23rd anniversary of the film that started it all, we're taking a look back at Fox's dearly departed mutant saga with a mega-series covering 10 X-Men films.

Brian Skutle of Sonic Cinema joins the show to kick off our X-Men retrospective with an in-depth conversation about 2000's X-Men. We'll discuss how it changed the world of superhero movies, why its themes are more relevant than ever, and what challenges Marvel Studios needs to overcome to successfully bring Professor X and company into the MCU.

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For an entire generation, Pee-wee Herman was an integral part of their childhood. The character -- created by Paul Reubens -- made his big-screen debut in Tim Burton's Pee-wee's Big Adventure before landing the award-winning Pee-wee's Playhouse TV series. Now Franchise Detours takes a tour through Pee-wee Herman's "trilogy" of cinematic adventures.

On this episode, Lauren Carey of the Beer'd Al Podcast joins the show to talk about 1985's Pee-wee's Big Adventure, 1988's Big Top Pee-wee, and 2016's Pee-wee's Big Holiday. We'll discuss how each film essentially reinvents the character, why the middle chapter might be less beloved, and whether Reubens' long-awaited return to Pee-wee left us wanting more.

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In 1999, Muppets fans probably expected Kermit and friends to dive headfirst into a third consecutive literary adaptation. Instead, Jim Henson Company Pictures -- this time under Sony Pictures, not Disney -- decided to boldly go where no Muppet movie had gone before: the realm of science fiction. And so Muppets from Space was born.

Sandro Falce from Oldie But a Goodie stops by to discuss the black sheep of the Muppet movie franchise, the one installment that stands alone in the characters' eight-movie run. We'll discuss the decision to build the story around Gonzo, Pepe the Prawn's big break, and crown "the people's Muppet." Also, can someone please direct us to The Muppet House? Thanks!

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Conquest for the Planet of the Apes sees Caesar (Roddy McDowall) lead an ape revolution that seemingly sews up the fate of humanity. So where could a sequel possibly take the story after the climactic turn of the previous film? As we continue our journey through the nine-film Planet of the Apes franchise, Battle for the Planet of the Apes gives us our answer.

Actor, author, and playwright John Weagly joins the show to help us break down this finale to the original five-movie run of Planet of the Apes. We'll discuss whether Battle is a fitting finale to Caesar's story, how successful the movie is at keeping things fresh with a tighter budget, and McDowall's indelible contribution to the Planet of the Apes franchise.

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If Rocky III marks the promise of how the franchise could grow beyond the championship belt, then the next film arguably shows its limitations. With star Sylvester Stallone again serving as writer and director, Rocky IV sees the iconic cinematic hero facing his most devastating blow yet, sending him all the way to Russia to represent his country on a quest for vengeance.

Ryan Luis Rodriguez of One Track Mind joins us to discuss 1985's Rocky IV, a film that remains the biggest worldwide box office hit in the Rocky/Creed franchise. We'll discuss why the film is the most dated installment of the series, how it underutilizes one of its most charismatic stars, and the 2021 release of Stallone's Rocky IV: Rocky vs. Drago – The Ultimate Director's Cut.

Although Rocky IV has more than its share of defenders, this is often the point where many film franchises start to falter. With an established storytelling formula and a generally intimate focus on a handful of main characters, how does Rocky IV manage to keep the title character in the cinematic ring? And where does it key up the 1990 flop that was Rocky V?

A full decade after director Tim Burton's "reimagining" of Planet of the Apes, the franchise seemed pretty much done. Hollywood turned its attention to other movie series, but after both Batman and Bond successfully relaunched by taking its iconic worlds back to basics, Fox ultimately took the same approach with one of its most successful brands of the past.

Film critic Nguyên Lê -- who previously joined us to talk 2005's Batman Begins -- returns to help us break down 2011's Rise of the Planet of the Apes. We'll discuss the film's reception as one of that year's biggest surprise hits, how star Andy Serkis' motion-capture performance redefined the series, and how the film sets up a brand-new take on Planet of the Apes.

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Batman Begins singlehandedly revived the DC superhero's film career. And The Dark Knight, well, it ensured that Batman would never stray far from the silver screen again. In this 2008 sequel, director Christopher Nolan took Christian Bale's Batman down a deeper, more morally complex path by pitting him against his ideological opposite: Heath Ledger's indelible Joker.

Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast joins us to talk all about how Nolan and Bale expanded on their version of this iconic character. We'll discuss whether The Dark Knight lives up to its sterling reputation, which cast member gives a wildly underrated performance, and how the film's focus on theme and character set a new template for comic book movies.

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Following the death of Jim Henson, the Muppets were absent from the big screen for nearly a decade. But under the guidance of director Brian Henson, Jim's son, Kermit the Frog and company finally returned with a twist in 1992. And 30 years later, The Muppet Christmas Carol is one of the most beloved installments in the Muppet movie franchise.

In this episode, film critic Morgan Roberts joins us to discuss how The Muppet Christmas Carol marked a new beginning for the Muppets. We'll cover how Jim Henson's death informed the movie, the decision to put the Muppets into a literary adaptation, Michael Caine's iconic Scrooge, and why the removal (and recent restoration) of a certain song matters.

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After two adventures as Axel Foley, Eddie Murphy had sworn off the possibility of Beverly Hills Cop 3. The actor reportedly felt there was nowhere else to go with that character. And yet, here we are talking about the third and final installment in our Beverly Hills Cop mega-series. But was Murphy right when he initially refused to come back for a third movie?

Sandro and Zach from Oldie But a Goodie join the show to dig into how this third entry stacks up with Beverly Hills Cop and Beverly Hills Cop 2. We'll discuss the movie's balance of comedy and action, Murphy's much-maligned performance, and whether Beverly Hills Cop 3 lives up to the infamous reputation it's earned over the years.

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Only seven years before Pixar would introduce a young boy named Andy and his room full of living toys, Chucky was born. The killer doll, of course, made his debut in 1988's Child's Play, voiced to perfection by Brad Dourif. And for more than 30 years, Dourif and writer-turned-director Don Mancini have kept the horror icon alive. But how does Charles Lee Ray's story start?

In this first episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Bri Azmoudeh of The Geeky Waffle joins the show to discuss that original film. We'll discuss how it lays the foundation for all the wild twists to come, why Andy Barclay's (Alex Vincent) arc is so heartbreaking, and where the upcoming USA/Syfy series could build on untapped potential in this first movie.

Child's Play might be a classic, but in many ways, it's not the movie some viewers might remember it as. Join us as we dive into it. Want to play?

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First, the Muppets got a movie. They solved a great caper. But taking Manhattan? In this economy?! Well, that's next in our Muppets mega-series. In 1984's The Muppets Take Manhattan, Kermit and company aspire to become Broadway stars. And director Frank Oz brings as much heart and unforgettable songs as fans would expect from a Muppet movie.

The Vern from Cinema Recall joins the show to delve deep into the third theatrically released Muppet film. We'll discuss how Oz's film meddles even more with the Muppets' already loose canon, which musical numbers tug at our heartstrings the most, and The Muppets Take Manhattan's standing as the final entry in the franchise featuring Muppets creator Jim Henson.

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We interrupt your regularly scheduled mutant superhero mega-series already in progress for, well, another mutant superhero mega-series. It's time to dip back into the sewers for a return to the world of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Seven years have passed since the latest franchise revival fizzled out with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is now playing. So Rob steps up to the mic to address his thoughts on the new animated movie. Does the film justify its existence as the seventh theatrically released TMNT film and the fourth iteration of this franchise? We'll dig into whether this latest effort could, in fact, carry the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles forward.

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After Rocky Balboa restored the franchise to its former glory — winning back fans and critics who were left cold after Rocky V — it really had seemed like this time the world had seen the last of Sylvester Stallone's iconic character. But that was before director Ryan Coogler got involved.

Coogler is now best known for the cultural phenomenon that was Black Panther, but he had made only one feature film when he stepped into the director's chair for 2015's Creed. Moreover, the film was to star frequent Coogler's Fruitvale Station star Michael B. Jordan, coming off of Fant4stic, opposite Stallone's seventh round as the retired champ himself.

The Lady-Wan of Screen Run joins Franchise Detours to discuss how its director and star went the distance with 2015's Creed . We'll discuss how the film honors the previous Rocky films, why it needs to earn its place within the beloved franchise, and whether it's the best legacy sequel ever made.

The Evil Dead remains an undeniable classic. But Evil Dead 2 is arguably where director Sam Raimi and star Bruce Campbell emerged fully formed. And it's why this entry perhaps boasts the most passionate fan base.

On this episode, David Rosen of the Piecing It Together podcast joins us to talk Evil Dead 2. We'll cover why it's one of his favorites, how it serves as both sequel and remake, and why it remains so rewatchable years later.

SYNOPSIS
The second of three films in the Evil Dead trilogy is part horror, part comedy, with Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell) once again battling horrifying demons at a secluded cabin in the woods. After discovering an audiotape left by a college professor that contains voices reading from the Book of the Dead, Ash's girlfriend Linda (Denise Bixler) becomes possessed by evil spirits that are awakened by the voices on the tape. Ash soon discovers there is no escaping the woods.

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In 2019, Freddy Yaniz joined Close Watch -- then the Crooked Table Podcast -- for an in-depth discussion of The Matrix. Now, with the release of The Matrix Resurrections, Franchise Detours looks back at that chat.

In this special encore episode, we discuss the profound impact The Matrix had on us personally, how its legacy has impacted Hollywood, and why the movie continues to inspire fans more than two decades after its release.

SYNOPSIS
Neo (Keanu Reeves) believes that Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) -- an elusive figure considered to be the most dangerous man alive -- can answer his question: "What is the Matrix?" Neo is contacted by Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), a beautiful stranger who leads him into an underworld where he meets Morpheus. They fight a brutal battle for their lives against a cadre of viciously intelligent secret agents. It is a truth that could cost Neo something more precious than his life.

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Our X-Men mega-series comes to a close (or does it?) with 2019's Dark Phoenix, as the franchise takes a second stab at one of the comics' most iconic storylines. With X-Men: The Last Stand far behind him, can first-time director Simon Kinberg (who cowrote that 2006 movie) right past wrongs?

Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast joins us to unravel the mysteries of Dark Phoenix. We'll explore the film's poor reception, its role as the series' unintended conclusion, and Sophie Turner's lead performance as Jean Grey. Most of all, we'll address whether Dark Phoenix does justice to this story.

Join us as we witness the rise of the Phoenix and determine where Dark Phoenix leaves the X-Men movie legacy ahead of the mutants' MCU debut.

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Superhero cinema these days seems unwaveringly dedicated to never-ending stories. But a full decade ago, Christopher Nolan followed his groundbreaking 2008 blockbuster The Dark Knight not with another sequel but with the grand finale of his interpretation of the Batman mythos. But does 2012's The Dark Knight Rises end the trilogy on a satisfying note?

Film critic Richard Newby joins us to delve into the installment of Nolan's Batman trilogy. We'll discuss the decision to leave Heath Ledger's Joker unaddressed, how the movie redefined Bane as a character, and why The Dark Knight Rises' themes feel more resonant today. Also, we'll address whether we want to see the DC Universe explore more of the Nolan-verse.

Plus, we'll reveal which entry in The Dark Knight trilogy is our guests' favorite!

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It's time to leave Child's Play behind. But we're not giving the world of horror a rest just yet. Instead, we're swerving right into another hugely influential franchise, starting with Sam Raimi's 1981 classic The Evil Dead.

On this episode, Bri Azmoudeh of The Geeky Waffle Network's Killer Waffles podcast joins us to talk about Raimi's cabin-in-the-woods splatter-fest. We'll discuss the film's shoestring budget, the emerge of Bruce Campbell as a movie star, and even the stage musical adaptation.

SYNOPSIS
Ashley "Ash" Williams (Bruce Campbell), his girlfriend Linda (Betsy Baker), his sister Cheryl (Ellen Sandweiss), and friends Scott (Hal Delrich) and Shelly (Sarah York) hike into the woods to a cabin for a fun night away. There they find an old book, the Necronomicon, whose text reawakens the dead when it's read aloud. The friends inadvertently release a flood of evil and must fight for their lives or become one of the evil dead. Ash watches his friends become possessed, and must make a difficult decision before daybreak to save his own life in this, the first of Sam Raimi's trilogy.

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To today's audience, Sister Act must feel like a real relic of the 1990s. A star-driven, fish-out-of-water, pseudo-musical comedy blockbuster!?! Add to that the religious setting, and there's little chance a movie like the 1992 hit starring Whoopi Goldberg would become a full-fledged phenomenon.

On this episode, Phoenix Clouden of the Film Code Podcast joins us to discuss how Sister Act became one of the most iconic comedies of the 1990s. We'll discuss where it fits in Goldberg's filmography, how 1993's Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit builds on it, and why we're hopeful about Sister Act 3.

Oh, happy day! Join us as we praise the heavenly nostalgia of Sister Act.

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After the disappointment of Battle for the Planet of the Apes, the franchise limped on in the form of two short-lived television series. First came 1974's live-action Planet of the Apes TV series, followed the next year by the animated project Return to the Planet of the Apes. Neither caught on with fans, and despite a long development, a new film didn't arrive until 2001.

Lauren Knight of That Movie Is Fine joins the show to discuss director Tim Burton's "reimagining" of Planet of the Apes. We'll discuss the movie's poor reputation despite box office success, the performances by the likes of Mark Wahlberg and Tim Roth, and of course, that mystifying twist ending.

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What a lovely day it is as we jumpstart a brand-new mega-series. Back in 1979, George Miller essentially invented the modern action movie with the original Mad Max. Now it's time for us to enter the Wasteland.

On this episode, Jackson Smith of Nightfall Entertainment joins the show as we talk about how Mad Max's vision of the post-apocalypse changed everything. Plus, we'll spend a few minutes on The Matrix Resurrections!

SYNOPSIS

It's a not-too-distant dystopian future, when man's most precious resource -- oil -- has been depleted and the world plunged into war, famine and financial chaos. The last vestiges of the law in Australia attempt to restrain a vicious biker gang led by the nefarious Toecutter (Hugh Keays-Byrne). Max (Mel Gibson), an officer with the Main Force Patrol, launches a personal vendetta against the gang when his wife (Joanne Samuel) and son are hunted down and murdered, leaving him with nothing but the instincts for survival and retribution.

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Despite its crass humor and ultraviolence, 2016's Deadpool professed itself to be a self-described "love story." Likewise, its even more over-the-top sequel fancies itself a "family film." With a budget roughly twice that of its predecessor, Ryan Reynolds' second turn in the iconic red suit was a similar box office hit, expanding the first film's themes and taking bigger chances.

As the road to Deadpool & Wolverine continues, Matthew Anderson of The Lone Screenplay Nominee Podcast joins us to dig into 2018's Deadpool 2. We'll discuss what the direction of franchise newcomer David Leitch (John Wick, Atomic Blonde) brings to the series, how the film doubles-down on its R rating, and why it could perfectly lead into the character's MCU debut.

So join us as Deadpool crosses paths with the likes of Josh Brolin's Cable and Zazie Beetz' Domino, has his first brush with time travel and how the Deadpool franchise comments and complements the mainline X-Men films. Also, keep an eye on the Crooked Table Patreon for a bonus episode on the movie's PG-13 cut, theatrically released as Once Upon a Deadpool!

Kevin the Critic joins Franchise Detours to talk about the 2014 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' reboot from producer Michael Bay.

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Welcome back, fellow mutant enthusiasts! As we celebrate the 23rd anniversary of the X-Men film franchise, we continue our journey through the groundbreaking series that revolutionized the superhero genre. In this episode, we dive deep into the sequel that took everything we loved about the first film and elevated it to new heights: 2003's X2: X-Men United.

Phoenix Clouden of Film Code helps us unravel the intricacies of this thrilling installment, which showcases the continued evolution of both the X-Men franchise and its ensemble of mutant characters. At the time X2 hit theaters, superhero sequels were still a rare breed. And the film leapt back into action with a surprising sense of purpose and depth this time around.

Building on the foundation laid in its predecessor, X2: X-Men United expanded the roster of characters while delving deeper into their personal struggles and identities. Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) once again took center stage, but the film also granted us a more in-depth look at Professor X (Patrick Stewart), Magneto (Ian McKellen), and Jean Grey (Famke Janssen).

Of course, the film's themes are eerily more relevant today than they were back in 2003. The mutants' fight for acceptance and equality mirrors real-world struggles for marginalized communities, making the film's narrative as powerful as ever. Yet, remarkably, X2: X-Men United balances that social commentary with rollicking action sequences and superhero thrills.

Perhaps that's why X2: X-Men United set the stage for future superhero sequels. Even 20 years after its release, fans still hold it in high esteem. So, tune in as we celebrate the legacy of X2: X-Men United and its impact on superhero cinema. Whether you're a long-time X-Men fan or a newcomer, this episode promises an adventure like no other.

X2: X-Men United turned out to be the middle chapter in the original trilogy of X-Men films. So join us next time as we discuss the final installment of that trilogy, 2006's X-Men: The Last Stand. Remember, we're journeying through 10 films in Fox's X-Men saga. Let's explore the subsequent X-films that continued to redefine and reshape the superhero landscape.

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Just as the zombie genre returned to life, Shaun of the Dead emerged as a cult classic that redefined the landscape of horror-comedy. As we dissect the intricacies of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy in our latest mega-series, we delve into the film that set the tone for Edgar Wright's signature work.

Clare Brunton of W-Rated joins us to shed light on how Shaun of the Dead balances gore and gags to create a cleverly constructed satire. Taking aim at the mundanity of life and horror tropes, Wright and co-writer/star Simon Pegg set a standard for genre fusion that's rarely been matched.

So grab a Cornetto (if you can find them near you), and listen in as we unravel how 2004's Shaun of the Dead laid the groundwork for a thematic trilogy of comedy genre mash-ups that continue to captivate and entertain audiences worldwide decades later. How's that for a slice of fried gold?

If the first Mad Max gives audiences a glimpse of the last vestiges of civilization, 1982's Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior takes them full-on into George Miller's Wasteland in one of the most celebrated action films ever.

On this episode, film critic Sara M. Fetters joins the show as we talk about how Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior builds on its predecessor, how it impacts the series' future, and why it still holds up all these years later.

SYNOPSIS

After avenging the death of his wife and young son, Max (Mel Gibson) drives the post-apocalyptic highways of the Australian outback, fending off attacks from nomadic tribes that prey on outsiders. Falling into an encampment led by the relatively peaceful Pappagallo (Mike Preston), Max at first schemes to steal their oil. But soon he becomes the group's reluctant defender against the hulking Humungus (Kjell Nilsson) and his ruthless marauders.

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Even decades after its release, 1976's Rocky stands as the ultimate cinematic underdog story. But following its critical acclaim, box office performance, and awards wins, it's only natural that everything involved — including star and screenwriter Sylvester Stallone — would explore what happened next in the lives of Rocky, Adrian, Paulie, Mickey, and of course, Apollo.

Darin Lundberg of NostalgiaCast and Back To Bluey joins us to talk about how 1979's Rocky II expands on the original film. We'll discuss whether the movie undercuts its predecessor with a Rocky and Apollo rematch, how the movie cements Stallone as the primary creative force of the franchise, and whether the film successfully justifies Rocky's return to the sport.

Join us as we step back into the ring with Rocky and his crew for a sequel that dares to push boundaries. With Rocky II, Stallone sharpens the stakes to focus on the theme of redemption and hones in on the emotional journeys of both Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed. It's a can't-miss entry in a franchise that still has so much more ground left to cover.

In 2002, the Marvel Cinematic Universe was just a glimmer in Kevin Feige's eye. And Sony entrusted Sam Raimi -- director of the Evil Dead franchise -- with bringing Marvel's most famous and beloved superhero to the big screen. In that way, Spider-Man is very much a testament to its time.

On this episode, The Lady-Wan of Screen Run helps us swing right into our next friendly neighborhood mega-series. Over the next few episodes, we'll be digging deep into Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy starring Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst. But this time, it's all about the film that started it all.

So hold on tight as we launch into 2002's Spider-Man. Thwip!

Our X-Men mega-series continues, spanning 10 films and nearly 20 years. Following the success of X2: X-Men United, the franchise takes its first major shift. Director Brett Ratner (Rush Hour) steps in to helm 2006's polarizing X-Men: The Last Stand. But is it a satisfying finale to the original trilogy of mutant adventures? Or is the film the X-Men series' first wrong turn?

Jeremiah Stewart of Let's Talk joins us to discuss this crucial chapter of the mutant chronicles. The discovery of a so-called mutant "cure" raises the stakes. And X-Men: The Last Stand does escalate tensions as the dynamic between mutants and humans grows more complicated. We explore the mutant struggle for acceptance and the moral dilemmas the film presents.

The X-Men franchise's ensemble comes into focus again, especially with the much-anticipated return of Jean Grey as the Dark Phoenix. Of course, this is the first of two attempts this franchise will take to adapt the fan-favorite story. We'll discuss how the movie balances two main plots and whether it deserves the less-than-beloved reputation it still has.

Subscribe and stay tuned for much more as we continue our epic X-Men mega-series. The legacy of the mutant franchise lives on through its influence on the superhero genre. Next time, the franchise gets even wilder. The X-Men officially enters the wild world of prequels, spin-offs, and time-hopping with 2009's even more maligned X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

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After eight films (including the meta-horror of Wes Craven's New Nightmare) and nearly 20 decades, Robert Englund wore the razor glove for the final time. But in keeping with the history of A Nightmare on Elm Street, Freddy Krueger's curtain call wasn't what anyone expected it would be.

Clare Brunton of W-Rated helps us close down this mega-series with 2003's horror monster mash-up Freddy vs. Jason. We'll discuss how the movie deftly combines the Elm Street films with Friday the 13th, whether its lack of intense scares detracts from the film, and the missed sequel opportunities.

Directed by Ronny Yu, Freddy vs. Jason might not be considered a cinematic turning point at large, but the film did unite two of horror's biggest bads just before their respective series faced the reboot treatment. So choose your fighter, and secure ringside seats to the ultimate horror showdown.

It's time to play the music. It's time to light the lights. It's time to meet the Muppets on a brand-new Franchise Detours mega-series. For the next eight episodes, we'll be covering every single theatrically released Muppet film, journeying through spanning 35 years of Muppets on the big screen. First up is the story of "approximately" how the Muppets came together.

On this episode, Stephen Fodor of Too Much Scrolling joins the show to talk in-depth about 1979's The Muppet Movie. We'll discuss how the movie works as an adaptation of The Muppet Show, break down Paul Williams' and Kenneth Ascher's Oscar-nominated music, and answer once and for all whether the film indeed has "socially redeeming value."

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Bride of Chucky introduced the first major detour in the Child's Play franchise. Adding Jennifer Tilly as Tiffany Valentine injected more comedy and self-awareness to series writer Don Mancini's macabre tale. But as audiences discovered in 2004, Chucky's world would get a lot wilder. In Mancini's directorial debut, Seed of Chucky, the killer duo become parents.

In the fifth episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Matt Donato of Certified Forgotten joins the show to help us break down how Seed of Chucky changed the series forever. We'll discuss its handling of gender identity, how it marks a dramatic turning point for Chucky (Brad Dourif), and why its release led Mancini to take the franchise back to basics.

Listen in as we bid farewell to the "Chucky and Tiffany" section of the Child's Play franchise. Next up: Curse of Chucky marks a new era for the franchise, as Fiona Dourif joins the series as Nica Pierce.

SYNOPSIS
Glen (Billy Boyd) is the offspring of evil doll Chucky (Brad Dourif) and his bride (Jennifer Tilly). When Glen hears that a film is being made about his parents, he goes to Hollywood and resurrects them. But Glen is horrified when Chucky and Tiffany embark on a new killing spree. Meanwhile, Glen must decide whether to follow in his parent's footsteps.

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It's not uncommon for a horror film franchise to eventually find its way into direct-to-DVD or on-demand territory. But what makes 2013's Curse of Chucky is how it not only endures but thrives from that point on. Nearly a decade after Seed of Chucky fell short of most fans' expectations, writer-director Don Mancini reinvented his signature character yet again.

In the penultimate episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Sandro Falce of Oldie But a Goodie joins the show. This entry introduces another new protagonist in Nica Pierce (Fiona Dourif). We'll discuss how Dourif's addition makes the series a family affair, why Curse of Chucky needed to step back to move forward, and where the story is heading.

Listen in as the Child's Play franchise hits its third incarnation. It's the haunted house movie of the series this episode. But if Curse of Chucky seems subdued for good ol' Charles Lee Ray, just wait to see what he's up to next.

SYNOPSIS
Twenty-five years after Brad Dourif first voiced Chucky, he's back for the sixth Child's Play film. Set nearly a decade after Seed of Chucky, the killer doll (Dourif) re-emerges at the home of a grieving family. However, following the death of her mother, Nica begins to suspect Chucky may be the key to recent bloodshed and chaos.

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No spoilers, but Beneath the Planet of the Apes seemed to negate the chances of a third Planet of the Apes film. And yet, the box office receipts sent a very different message to studio executives. And so Escape from the Planet of the Apes hit theaters in 1971, taking the series in a radical new direction.

Film critic Sara Michelle Fetters joins the show to break down how Escape from the Planet of the Apes reinvents the franchise midway through. We'll discuss Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter's lead performances, the movie's not-so-subtle social commentary, and of course, that wild final sequence.

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As we continue our Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mega-series, our very own Kai Yaniz makes her Franchise Detours debut as we discuss the oft-forgotten 2007 animated film TMNT.

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As we raise our glasses to the final installment of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, Franchise Detours dives into the bittersweet, otherworldly journey of 2013's The World’s End. The film ends the series with a poignant commentary on friendship, nostalgia, and the inescapable march of time.

Robert Stewart of Stew World Order joins the show to discuss director/co-writer Edgar Wright and co-writer/star Simon Pegg's grand sci-fi finale. We'll discuss how The World’s End blends genre elements with the raw emotion of revisiting one’s past and the trilogy’s signature comedic punch.

Join us as we unpack the legacy of the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy. Let's explore how this third film’s sci-fi elements enhance its underlying themes, its recurring motifs and gags, and how the character arcs have evolved from Shaun of the Dead to Hot Fuzz and, finally, The World's End.

After seven years, 1998's Bride of Chucky revived the Child's Play franchise in a most surprising way. But is the movie the series' apex or a weird step in the wrong direction. In any case, director Ronny Yu's film notably unites Chucky (voiced by Brad Dourif) with his blushing bride, Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly).

In the fourth episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Pablo Saldana helps us discuss why Bride of Chucky is such a pivotal turning point for the series. We'll discuss the movie's introduction of Tiffany, how it anoints Chucky as a top-tier horror villain, and how series writer Don Mancini takes creative control of Chucky's cinematic shenanigans.

Listen in as we enter the "Chucky and Tiffany" section of the Child's Play franchise. And prepare to meet Chucky's seed with Mancini's directorial debut in our next episode.

SYNOPSIS
Killer doll Chucky (Brad Dourif) is resurrected by ex-girlfriend Tiffany (Jennifer Tilly). But following an argument, Chucky kills Tiffany and transfers her soul into a bride doll. The pair of murderous playthings embark on a quest to return to human form. And Chucky and Tiffany turn to Jesse (Nick Stabile) and Jade (Katherine Heigl), who are unaware that their cargo is alive.

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Rocky (and, by extension, Rocky II) tells one of the greatest underdog stories in cinema history. But with audiences clamoring for more of "The Italian Stallion," how could writer/director/star Sylvester Stallone build upon Rocky Balboa's story after he has achieved the ultimate goal of claiming the heavyweight championship? The answer lies in the characters themselves.

With 1982's Rocky III, Stallone ups the personal stakes for the titular hero, while also continuing to follow how the relationships between the core characters evolve. Buoyed by appearances from professional wrestler Hulk Hogan and Mr. T as Rocky's nemesis, Clubber Lang, as well as a hot soundtrack, the movie perhaps marks the series' biggest success to date.

Writer Jeannette Miller joins us to discuss how Rocky III continues the series' character-focused storytelling. We'll discuss why it switches up the structure of its predecessors, how it mirrors Stallone's own life and career, and which character relationship might be the series' best. So start pumping Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger" and get ready to enter the ring once again.

Child's Play is the simple story of a boy and his favorite doll, albeit one imbued with the soul of a notorious serial killer. But with Chucky (voiced by Brad Dourif) destroyed, where could a sequel go? 1990's Child's Play 2 answers that question with a more traditional approach to continuing the original film's story. But does it keep the series' momentum going?

In the second episode of our Child's Play/Chucky mega-series, Kevin Smith of MST3K Motivation addresses whether director John Lafia's sequel does justice to Andy (Alex Vincent) and Chucky's story from the original film. We'll discuss how Child's Play 2 ratchets up the comedy and gore, the introduction of Christine Elise as Kyle, and that finale at the toy factory.

Child's Play 2 might not boast the novelty of its predecessor. But is this a classic horror sequel or the first misfire on Chucky's big-screen resume? Listen in as we continue down the road of the Child's Play franchise. Playtime is officially back in session.

SYNOPSIS
Two years after serial killer Charles Lee Ray (Brad Dourif) inserted his soul into a Chucky doll, a toy company attempts to recreate the doll, bringing Ray back in the process. The possessed doll -- intent on claiming a human body -- kills his way toward former owner Andy (Alex Vincent), who now lives in a foster home. Andy's foster sister, Kyle (Christine Elise), tries to protect him, but his foster parents believe Andy is just a troubled kid -- and Chucky's murderous path continues.

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Batman was in a characteristically dark place in the early 2000s. After 1997's Batman & Robin, Warner Bros. struggled to figure out what its next move would be for Bruce Wayne's DC Comics alter-ego. Then an up-and-coming filmmaker named Christopher Nolan came in, and the resulting trilogy would leave an impact that still lingers within superhero movies.

Film critic Nguyen Le joins us to kick off our mega-series on Nolan's The Dark Knight trilogy with an in-depth chat about 2005's Batman Begins. We'll discuss Christian Bale's indelible performance in what is the first live-action Bat-movie about Bruce Wayne, Nolan's grounded approach to Gotham City and the Batman mythos, and how Batman Begins paves the way for what would come next. Are you ready to begin?

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A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master introduced fans to a brand-new final girl in Lisa Wilcox's Alice Johnson. So all its sequel had to do is build on that character and her story to keep that momentum going. But does A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child deliver a winner?

David Rosen of Piecing It Together joins us to discuss how the Stephen Hopkins-directed film taps into the primal fears of impending parenthood, whether its bleaker edge fits at this point in the franchise, and why this less-talked-about installment might hold the key to rebirthing the series.

Join us as we delve into A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child, examining how it breaks tradition regarding its tonal balance, character arcs and visual palette. So tuck in for a night of reflection as we contemplate how this fifth entry affected the longevity of this iconic series.

It seems some Evil Dead fans didn't realize Army of Darkness was a sequel when they first saw it. Alas, the 1992 movie -- once again directed by Sam Raimi and starring Bruce Campbell -- completes the duo's Evil Dead trilogy.

On this episode, Jeff Johnson of Suns and Shadows-Cast joins us to discuss how the movie completes the evolution of Ash's character, the distinction between his buffoonish and heroic sides, and those epic practical effects.

SYNOPSIS
Ash (Bruce Campbell) is transported back to medieval days, where he is captured by the dreaded Lord Arthur (Marcus Gilbert). Aided by the deadly chainsaw that has become his only friend, Ash is sent on a perilous mission to recover the Book of the Dead, a powerful tome that gives its owner the power to summon an army of ghouls.

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In the pantheon of superhero sequels, Spider-Man 2 is arguably among the best of its kind. Two years after Sam Raimi finally brought the webslinger to theaters, he aimed even higher with deeper themes, a more visually ambitious villain, and a tighter focus on character relationships.

On this episode, Josh Bell of Awesome Movie Year joins the show to discuss how Raimi tries to outdo himself with the sequel, the iconic performance of Alfred Molina as Doctor Octopus, and whether 2004's Spider-Man 2 is, in fact, the best Spider-Man movie. Next time, we go ALL IN on Spider-Man 3.

But for now, it's all about the myth, the legend Spider-Man 2. Go get it, tiger.

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Just when you thought Dark Phoenix put an underwhelming bow on the Fox era of X-Men movies, The New Mutants comes along to further complicate the franchise's legacy. In this BONUS episode to our mega-series following the X-Men movie franchise, we'll go in-depth on the oft-forgotten 2020 film.

On paper, The New Mutants should have been an easy win. Taking the X-Men universe headfirst into horror seemed like an intriguing departure. Then, of course, The New Mutants' continual delays led the world to (perhaps rightfully) suspect something was amiss behind the scenes.

Jackson Smith of Nightfall Entertainment joins the final Franchise Detours of 2023 as we explore the unique world of The New Mutants. We'll discuss the film's horror aesthetic, its connection to the broader X-Men universe, and how it aimed to give the franchise a fresh perspective 11 films in.

Join us as we venture into the eerie and enigmatic world of The New Mutants and determine why this risky experiment didn't quite pay off.

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After nine films and three different incarnations, our Planet of the Apes mega-series ends here. We went in-depth on the original five-film series, dug up the oft-maligned Tim Burton "reimagining," and now we conclude our discussions on the recent reboot trilogy starring Andy Serkis as Caesar.

David Rosen of Piecing It Together joins us to discuss 2017's War for the Planet of the Apes. We'll cover how director Matt Reeves elevates the trilogy to mythic heights, whether this is a satisfying follow-up to Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and what we hope to see in 2024's Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.

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Despite the success of the animated series, no one expected 1990's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to be such a blockbuster. So naturally, it didn't take long for a sequel to start inching toward production. And less than a year later, the turtles were back on the big screen with another adventure.

Jeff Johnson and Kevin Smith from Suns and Shadows-Cast join our TMNT mega-series to talk 1991's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze. We'll discuss how the sequel toned down the violence, why it introduced Tokka and Rahzar, and if it is the most 1990s movie ever made.

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Exactly one year before The Matrix Resurrections' release, Jackson Smith of Nightfall Entertainment joined Close Watch -- then the Crooked Table Podcast -- to discuss The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions.

Now Franchise Detours looks back at that epic three-hour conversation. We'll discuss why The Matrix sequels are underappreciated, where the trilogy sits within cinema history, and look forward to what comes next.

SYNOPSIS

The Matrix Reloaded:
Freedom fighters Neo (Keanu Reeves), Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) and Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) continue to lead the revolt against the Machine Army, unleashing their arsenal of extraordinary skills and weaponry against the systematic forces of repression and exploitation. In their quest to save the human race from extinction, they gain greater insight into the construct of The Matrix and Neo's pivotal role in the fate of mankind.

The Matrix Revolutions:
In a dystopia overrun by robots, Neo (Keanu Reeves), mankind's greatest hope, is trapped in a limbo world. Meanwhile, the majority of the planet's population remains in a state of suspended virtual reality. The few humans who are cognizant of the grim realities of the world desperately try to hold off their mechanical enemies long enough for Neo to escape and save the day, but things turn disastrous when all-powerful computer program Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) arrives in the flesh.

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After 1984's Beverly Hills Cop solidified Eddie Murphy's superstar status, a sequel seemed inevitable. And although Beverly Hills Cop 2 perhaps lacks the cultural significance of its predecessor, it does bring a ton of fun additions to the franchise, particularly as director Tony Scott's follow-up to the previous year's highest-grossing movie, none other than Top Gun.

On this episode, Lauren Knight of That Movie Is Fine joins the show to discuss how Beverly Hills Cop 2 doubles down on Murphy's specific comedic sensibility. We also weigh in on what this franchise would have looked like had original choice Sylvester Stallone taken the role and how Beverly Hills Cop 2 plays like Murphy's take on James Bond.

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In hindsight, it makes sense the diminishing returns of A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child might signal Freddy Krueger should quit while he was (at least relatively) ahead. So two years later, longtime creative collaborator Rachel Talalay took the director's chair for the "final" entry.

Kev Smith of Suns and Shadows-Cast joins us to discuss 1991's Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare. We'll discuss how the film expands Freddy's mythos, whether the full-tilt lean into comedy works, and whether Freddy's supposed final bow serves as a satisfying end to Wes Craven's creation.

Join us on the latest Franchise Detours as we dissect the dreamscapes of Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare. We’ll slice into the film’s horror elements, its ties to the overarching Elm Street mythology, and how it originally sought to lay Freddy to rest with a rare definitive end of an icon.

While the story started by Rocky had seemingly come to a close, Sylvester Stallone's dissatisfaction with the fifth film — and perhaps the declining state of his own career — led him to consider bringing his signature character back for just one more fight. And thus, he returned to write, direct and star in Rocky Balboa, released 30 years after the first film.

Film critic Phoenix Clouden joins us to discuss 2006's Rocky Balboa, the film which defied the odds to earn critical acclaim and box office success. We'll discuss how the film handles the absence of Talia Shire's Adrian, why it feels like a necessary project for both Rocky and Stallone alike, and where it feels the door open for the character's return nearly a decade later in Creed.

We'll also delve into the film’s thematic elements, such as aging and legacy. Serving as both a conclusion to Rocky's story and a fresh entry point for a new generation, we'll discuss how Rocky Balboa encapsulates the film’s message of perseverance. Join us for an engaging discussion celebrating the enduring spirit of one of cinema’s most beloved characters.