This week on Movie Wars, we dive into Michael Mann’s Collateral — a movie where Tom Cruise plays the most terrifying silver fox since Anderson Cooper, and Jamie Foxx gets one night to decide if he’s a cab driver or a hero. We’re joined by our good friend and touring standup Will Abeles, who took a break from crisscrossing the country to talk LA noir, digital cinematography, and, oh yeah — the time he gave a real-life Vincent a ride across Nashville.

We talk about how Collateral captures LA’s sweaty, neon-soaked vibe better than any other film since Heat, how Mann’s use of early digital cameras shaped the look of modern movies, and how Cruise’s weird hair dye and Bangkok suit are all part of the character’s ghostlike anonymity. Plus: Jamie Foxx’s quiet career pivot, what makes Mann’s cityscapes feel mythic, and a full-on Uber-from-hell story that somehow makes Collateral feel like a documentary.

This one’s full of chaos, crime, and comedy — basically, a perfect night in Los Angeles.

• Michael Mann doesn’t just film LA — he turns it into a character. From Heat to Collateral, the man is the city’s best cinematographer
• Will Abeles joins fresh off his special The Pride of Hagerstown, and shares his very own “Collateral moment” while driving for Uber.
• We talk about Mann’s bold use of early digital cameras in 2004 and how it gave the movie that immersive, eerie nighttime look.
• Tom Cruise’s gray hair and Thai-tailored suit? That wasn’t just a weird choice — it was a tactical one, designed to make Vincent disappear in plain sight.
• Jamie Foxx’s performance in Collateral marked a major turning point in his career, showing off the kind of dramatic depth we’d later see in Ray.
• Also: Scientology, strip mall comedy clubs, Morgan Wallen chaos, and an impromptu Nashville ayahuasca rant. You're welcome.

Featuring Joe & Vance from Boys Watching Buffy

On this episode of Movie Wars, we’re throwing roundhouse kicks into the Louisiana swamp and diving into Hard Target, the chaotic, mullet-soaked fever dream that marked John Woo’s American debut. I’m joined by Joe and Vance from the hilarious podcast Boys Watching Buffy, where they bring their sharp humor and fresh takes to cult TV classics like Buffy, Angel, Veronica Mars, and more.

We dig into everything: Van Damme’s mid-tier action star status, the insane production meddling that turned this into a different movie, why early ‘90s action films were weirdly obsessed with Cajun Louisiana, and the very real question — are the villains in Hard Target actually the best part?

We also talk ugly movie stars, the lost art of gritty backdrops, and why slow-mo gunfights with saxophone porn music will always have a place in our hearts.

If you love action movies, wild tangents, and hearing three dudes lose it over mullets and Wilford Brimley’s Southern accent, this one’s for you.

Absolutely. Here are your show notes for the Hard Target episode — formatted cleanly with sections for platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your website:

Guests: Joe & Vance from Boys Watching Buffy

Host: Kyle Castro

Podcast: Movie Wars

• The chaotic backstory behind John Woo’s Hard Target and why it barely resembles his original vision
• Jean-Claude Van Damme’s mullet, legacy, and where he fits in the action star pantheon
• A love letter to slow-mo gunfights, dove symbolism, and 90s saxophone porn music
• Why early ’90s Hollywood was weirdly obsessed with Cajun Louisiana as a setting
• The incredible villain duo of Lance Henriksen and Arnold Vosloo — and why they deserved a spinoff
• The era of "ugly movie stars" and the raw grit of pre-streaming cinema
• Tangents on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Red Dead Redemption 2, Street Fighter, and Double Team with Dennis Rodman
• Is Van Damme underrated, overrated, or stuck in mullet limbo?

Joe and Vance are the hosts of Boys Watching Buffy, a hilarious and addictive podcast where they watch cult TV shows for the first time — starting with Buffy, then moving through Angel, Veronica Mars, Dollhouse, and more.

• Hard Target was originally 116 minutes long and got slapped with an NC-17 before being trimmed to 97 minutes.
• John Woo was shadowed by Sam Raimi on set to “protect” the production.
• Van Damme oversaw the final edit to make it his movie.
• The studio almost made a spinoff film focused...

We’re wrapping up our journey through the Bill and Ted trilogy with the final film, Face the Music — and joining us for the ride is touring comedian Evan Berke, who brings both sharp wit and real insight to this surprisingly emotional sequel.

Thank you to my dear friend Boys Watching Buffy and The Revisionist Almanac for providing a trailer.

Enjoy their shows!Nearly 30 years after Bogus Journey, Bill and Ted are back — older, still optimistic, and now raising daughters while trying to save the world (again). In this episode, we break down how Face the Music handles legacy, aging, and creative pressure, all while staying true to the ridiculous heart that’s defined this franchise since 1989.

We get into the dynamics between Bill, Ted, and their daughters, how time travel is used not just as a plot device but as a way to explore self-reflection, and what it means to pass the torch to a new generation. There’s plenty of love here for the bizarre, heartfelt tone of the film, and Evan adds thoughtful perspective on the balance of comedy and sentiment — especially when it comes to stories that try to say something real while being totally bonkers.

From trombone solos in hell to Kid Cudi’s quantum theories, this movie has it all. But at its core, Face the Music is about friendship, hope, and the messiness of trying to leave something behind that matters. Whether or not this final chapter hit the mark for you, our conversation digs into what makes this film a fascinating — and oddly moving — end to one of the weirdest trilogies in movie history.

• Touring comedian Evan Berke joins us for a deep dive into Bill and Ted Face the MusicWe unpack how the film blends absurdity with real emotional stakes
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• Bill and Ted’s evolution as aging rock dads brings new heart to the story
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• We explore themes of generational legacy, creative burnout, and collaboration
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• Time travel as a metaphor for growth and reflection
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• Friendship, failure, and what it means to finish the song — even when the clock’s running out
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Bill and Ted Face the Music, Bill and Ted podcast, Movie Wars podcast, Evan Berke comedian, Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, time travel movies, nostalgic movies, reboots and sequels, Bill and Ted trilogy, comedy podcasts, film analysis, 80s movies revisited, cinematic legacy, movie commentary, generational storytelling, cult film finales, comedy and heart

We’re back for part two of our deep dive into the Bill and Ted trilogy, and this time we’re tackling Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey with our guest, stand-up comedian Evan Berke. This sequel takes a wild left turn from the goofy time-travel fun of the original and dives headfirst into the afterlife—with robot clones, evil versions of our heroes, and one of the greatest portrayals of Death in movie history. We talk about how the tone shifts hard, why that works (or doesn’t), and why this movie’s weirdness might actually make it the boldest entry in the franchise. From wild production design to surprisingly heavy themes, we make the case that Bogus Journey deserves more love than it gets.

A thoughtful exploration of the cinematic sequel, this installment of Movie Wars delves into the second film of the Bill and Ted series, Bogus Journey, featuring Nashville comedian Evan Berke. The discussion foregrounds the film's departure from the comedic structure of its predecessor, pivoting instead towards a darker, more philosophical narrative. The hosts dissect the film's thematic elements, notably the exploration of death and the afterlife, while contrasting it with the lighthearted time travel escapades of the first film. They reflect on the creative choices made in both the screenplay and direction, emphasizing how these choices contribute to a unique viewing experience that diverges from the expected norms of typical sequels. The episode also showcases the nostalgic appeal of the film, with each host sharing personal anecdotes that reveal their evolving perceptions of Bogus Journey as they revisit it in adulthood. By analyzing character development and the introduction of new figures, such as Death played by William Sadler, the hosts provide an in-depth critique that highlights the film's strengths and weaknesses, ultimately celebrating its place in the pantheon of cult classic cinema.

Takeaways:

• In this podcast episode, we delve into the darker themes presented in Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey, highlighting the significant tonal shift from the original movie.
• Evan Berke's insights on the film's production design offer a fascinating look at how the sequel expanded the universe established in the first film.
• The discussion emphasizes the way the characters of Bill and Ted have evolved, showcasing their growth while maintaining their core identities.
• Listeners learned about the distinctive creative choices made in Bogus Journey, particularly the incorporation of spiritual elements as opposed to time travel.
• The episode also touches on the importance of supporting characters, noting how they contribute to the overall narrative and emotional weight of the film.
• The hosts reflect on their personal experiences with the film, revealing how initial perceptions of Bogus Journey have changed over time, leading to newfound appreciation.

Legendary Nashville comedian Evan Berke graces our podcast to delve into his cherished cinematic trilogy, "Bill and Ted." The discourse commences with a profound appreciation for the simplicity and charm of these films, particularly their unique blend of time travel and buddy comedy. We explore the intricacies of character development and the underlying themes of friendship and aspiration that resonate throughout the series. Berke's insights illuminate how these seemingly frivolous narratives encapsulate deeper truths about personal growth and the pursuit of dreams. Furthermore, we take a moment to recommend his stand-up special, "Twice Removed," an endeavor that showcases his comedic prowess and offers a delightful complement to the conversation at hand.

Takeaways:

• Evan Berke passionately discusses the cultural significance and personal impact of the 'Bill and Ted' trilogy on his life and career as a comedian.
• The podcast highlights the unique blend of comedy and time travel in 'Bill and Ted', setting it apart from traditional buddy comedies of the 1980s era.
• The speakers reflect on the depth and complexity of the characters in 'Bill and Ted', revealing how they are more than just stoner caricatures.
• Evan emphasizes the importance of George Carlin's contribution to the films, noting how his presence elevated the material and added a layer of wisdom.
• The discussion includes insights into the film's production, including its unexpected success and the chemistry between the lead actors, Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter.
• The podcast concludes with a reflection on the enduring legacy of 'Bill and Ted', acknowledging its influence on subsequent films in the buddy comedy genre.

The Movie Wars crew thoroughly and hilariously dissect "Dredd" (2012), where Nashville comedian Joshua Lewis joins hosts Seth and Kyle to elucidate the stark contrasts between this interpretation and its predecessor, the 1995 iteration starring Sylvester Stallone. From the outset, we delve into how "Dredd" presents a markedly different narrative approach, characterized by its immersive world-building and a more nuanced portrayal of its titular character. The discussion highlights the film's effective use of visual storytelling, notably through its innovative cinematography and sound design, contributing to a gripping cyberpunk atmosphere. Throughout the conversation, the trio examines the performances of the cast, particularly commendable is Lena Headey's portrayal of the antagonist, which adds layers of complexity to the film's narrative. Ultimately, this episode offers a thoughtful analysis of "Dredd," emphasizing its merits and the artistic choices that distinguish it from earlier adaptations.

Stoked to have ads from friends Boys Watching Buffy and The Revisionist Almanac.

The latest episode of Movie Wars features a compelling discourse on the cinematic interpretations of the Judge Dredd franchise, specifically contrasting the 2012 film 'Dredd' with its 1995 predecessor featuring Sylvester Stallone. Joshua Lewis, a comedian from Nashville, joins hosts Seth and Kyle to delve into the intricacies of both films, offering insights that highlight the stark differences in tone, narrative structure, and character development. The conversation opens with a lighthearted introduction, transitioning into a more profound examination of the world-building in 'Dredd', where the hosts laud its immersive universe and tight storytelling, which effectively draws the viewer into a dystopian reality. The episode also explores how the film's visual stylings, particularly its use of slow-motion effects, serve to enhance the storytelling, despite some critique regarding the overuse of this technique. The guests reflect on the performances, particularly that of Karl Urban, whose portrayal of the titular character is celebrated as a significant improvement over Stallone's version, emphasizing the depth and nuance brought to the role. Ultimately, the episode serves as an engaging analysis of how 'Dredd' managed to carve a unique identity within the comic book genre, setting a high standard for future adaptations.

Takeaways:

• The 2012 adaptation of Dredd presents a stark contrast to the 1995 version, showcasing a gritty and visceral portrayal of the character and his world.
• The film's unique visual style and use of slow-motion cinematography effectively immerse the viewer into the chaotic environment of Mega City One.
• Dredd's character development and stoicism are significantly enhanced compared to the Stallone interpretation, providing a more authentic representation of the comic book character.
• The supporting cast, including Lena Headey's performance as Mama, adds depth and complexity to the narrative, elevating the film's overall impact.
• The film successfully creates a contained yet expansive dystopian world, filled with socio-political commentary that resonates with contemporary issues.
• Dredd demonstrates a masterful balance of action and narrative pacing, resulting in an engaging cinematic experience that keeps the audience invested throughout.

In this discourse, Seth and Kyle are joined by the esteemed Joshua Lewis, a venerable figure in the Nashville comedy landscape, to delve into the cinematic adaptation of Judge Dredd featuring Sylvester Stallone. The salient point of our conversation revolves around the intricate interplay between the film's narrative shortcomings and the expectations set forth by its comic book origins. We engage in a critical examination of the movie's tonal inconsistencies, particularly its attempts at humor juxtaposed with the dark themes inherent in the source material. The dialogue further explores the implications of star power on creative decisions, particularly focusing on Stallone's influence over the film's direction and script. As we navigate through the various elements of production, we ultimately arrive at a consensus regarding the film's failure to resonate with both audiences and critics alike, thereby underscoring the challenges faced by adaptations of beloved comic properties.

Seth and Kyle, accompanied by Joshua Lewis, engage in a profound examination of the 1995 film "Judge Dredd," a cinematic endeavor marked by its ambitious yet flawed execution. The episode encapsulates the essence of the film, reflecting on Stallone's portrayal of the titular character and the societal implications it presents in a dystopian future. Joshua, drawing from his extensive experience in the comedy landscape, offers a unique perspective on the film’s comedic undertones and the absurdity that permeates its narrative. The hosts dissect the intricate relationship between the film's marketing and its content, scrutinizing how the desire for commercial success may have compromised the film's artistic vision. They explore the ramifications of such compromises, suggesting that the film's identity suffers as a result of conflicting creative directions. As the discourse unfolds, it becomes evident that while "Judge Dredd" possesses moments of visual flair and ambition, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling story that honors its source material. The episode culminates in a reflective critique of the film's legacy, prompting listeners to consider the broader implications of Hollywood's ever-present tension between creativity and market demands.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we explore the complexities of Sylvester Stallone's portrayal of Judge Dredd, a character that contrasts sharply with the original comic's depiction.
• Joshua Lewis shares fascinating insights about the evolution of the Nashville comedy scene and its influence on contemporary comedic narratives.
• The conversation delves into the challenges faced during the production of Judge Dredd, highlighting how creative differences can impact the final product.
• We dissect the film's failure to establish a cohesive narrative while attempting to balance humor and action, ultimately leading to mixed critical reception.
• The discussion touches upon the significance of world-building in dystopian narratives, emphasizing how Judge Dredd missed opportunities to enrich its universe.
• We reflect on how the film's costume designs, influenced by high-fashion designers, contributed to its unique aesthetic amidst its narrative shortcomings.

The culmination of our "Kill Bill" series finds us delving into Volume 2, where a fervent discussion unfolds between Matthew Blevins, a stand-up comic and film critic, and Seth, who approaches the film with a healthy dose of skepticism. The primary focus of this episode is the contrasting perspectives on the film's narrative depth and stylistic choices, particularly as Matthew passionately defends the cinematic merits of "Kill Bill: Volume 2," while Seth articulates his reservations regarding its pacing and climactic resolution. As we navigate this dialogue, we witness the intricate dance between Matthew's enthusiasm and Seth's critical analysis, which allows for a multifaceted exploration of Tarantino's work. The episode encapsulates the essence of passionate discourse surrounding film critique, leaving listeners to ponder their own views on this intriguing conclusion to the saga of the Bride. Join us as we engage in a serious examination of this cinematic finale, reflecting on its impact within the broader context of Tarantino's oeuvre.

The conclusion of our examination of the Kill Bill series culminates in a profound discourse on Volume 2, where the dynamic interplay between skepticism and fervor manifests through the engaging dialogues of Seth and Kyle alongside guest Matthew Blevins. Matthew, a stand-up comic and film critic, brings an infectious enthusiasm for Quentin Tarantino's magnum opus, offering insights that celebrate the film's stylistic choices and rich homage to the martial arts genre. Seth, on the other hand, adopts a more critical stance, questioning the pacing and narrative conclusions that Tarantino presents. The episode delves into the thematic contrasts between the two volumes, particularly focusing on how Volume 2 shifts from frenetic action to a more contemplative exploration of relationships and personal vendettas. Central to this discussion is the climactic confrontation between Beatrix Kiddo and Bill, which, while pivotal, raises questions regarding its execution and the emotional weight assigned to a moment that was long anticipated throughout the series. Through spirited debate, the trio navigates the complexities of character development, narrative pacing, and the unique stylistic elements that define Tarantino's vision, ultimately reflecting on how these choices resonate with audiences both past and present.

Takeaways:

• In this concluding episode of the Kill Bill series, Seth and Kyle engage in a spirited discussion with stand-up comic Matthew Blevins, whose fervor for the film contrasts sharply with Seth's skepticism.
• Matthew Blevins passionately defends Kill Bill Volume 2, arguing that its slower, more narrative-driven pacing serves a different purpose than the frenetic energy of Volume 1.
• Seth expresses disappointment regarding the anticlimactic nature of Bill's death, feeling that it undermined the film's overall build-up and dramatic tension.
• The conversation highlights the juxtaposition of Kill Bill Volume 2's thematic focus on character relationships, particularly between The Bride and Bill, which diverges from traditional action film expectations.
• Kyle and Seth reflect on the distinct tonal shifts between the two volumes, noting how Volume 2 embraces a more introspective narrative style compared to its predecessor.
• The episode concludes with a critical examination of Tarantino's filmmaking style, emphasizing how his self-indulgence can lead to both creative triumphs and narrative shortcomings.