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Stewart, Rastislav and Ken brave the summer heat to bring you their June 2026 (reboot-heavy) picks; Stewart and Ken lead off with their takes on Masters of the Universe, this summer’s big budget reboot of the Mattel toy property. They both enjoyed the Travis Knight-directed film more than the 1987 film (even though they liked Dolph’s cameo!) and would be happy to watch a sequel if it can overcome its lacklustre box office earnings. They had some misgivings about the overabundance of jokey dialogue but the action, music and special effects kept them amused.

Rastislav follows with his greater pick, the 2022-2025 Netflix series The Recruit; he enjoyed this story of a CIA lawyer dealing with attempts to expose classified information and being thrown in at the deep end. He praises stars Noah Centineo and Vondie Curtis-Hall, noting that Centineo has progressed from his earlier, youth-oriented projects. He also enjoyed that it felt less like a conventional spy thriller and more like a chaotic legal drama/comedy.

Moving on to lesser picks, Ken gives his still-favourable view on another 80s reboot, specifically 2025’s Canadian production Deathstalker. Starring Daniel Bernhardt and Patton Oswalt, it has a much lower budget than MOTU but that is part of its video store era charm. There isn’t as much female nudity as in earlier genre efforts, which may disappoint aficionados; the practical effects-driven approach makes it worth a watch nonetheless.

Stewart’s lesser pick is M3GAN 2.0; he was not amused by its hard left babyface turn, making M3GAN into a Terminator-like hero fighting a government conspiracy and internet memes. He calls it an AI slopfest and says “AV01D!”

Rastislav’s lesser but still worthwhile pick is the 2018-2020 AT&T series Condor starring Max Irons, Leem Lubany and the late William Hurt. It is an update of the classic Robert Redford thriller Three Days of the Condor. He felt that the current state of surveillance technology is well-suited for a modern retelling. He also enjoyed Irons and Lubany as substitutes for the adversaries originally played by Redford and Max von Sydow.

Stewart ends this edition with a dishonourable mention for 2025’s Nuremberg; he suggests watching the original Judgment of Nuremberg instead as he questions the accuracy of this version. More picks to come as summer rolls on!

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Stewart, Rastislav and Ken are back to decipher the conspiracy of Vivarium, a 2019 release from Fantastic Films and Screen Ireland. Stewart and Ken watched it on Shudder, where at the time of review it was the number one film on the service. The screenplay is by Garret Shanley and Lorcan Finnegan, and Finnegan also directed.

The story follows young couple Tom and Gemma, a handyman/landscaper and teacher respectively, looking to purchase their first home together in an unnamed town (possibly in Ireland, where filming took place). They meet an eccentric sales agent named Martin who bids them to follow him to the new development called Yonder, where he promises to show them the first and last home they’ll ever own. No sooner has he shown them around, then he vanishes; Tom and Gemma grow frustrated and decide to leave and try again another day. However, what at first seems to be a confusing neighbourhood layout is revealed to be a strange landscape that will not allow them to leave, no matter which way they turn. They eventually run out of gas and decide to stay in the house overnight. Soon, they begin receiving packages of food and other necessities from out of thin air; one package contains an infant boy, who grows at an accelerated pace and gradually takes on the role of their son. Tom literally throws himself into a hole as he tries to dig an escape tunnel in their front yard; he and Gemma grow distant as their new “son” grows into a strange adolescent. More time passes and their son becomes a sinister adult; Tom and Gemma have now realized how trapped they truly are, and receive hints that they aren’t the only couple subjected to this experiment.

Stewart, Rastislav and Ken all agree that actors Jesse Eisenberg and Imogen Poots as the couple have good chemistry and do their best with the material. They also liked aspects of the production design, visual effects and music. However, they were underwhelmed with the story, and felt that the passive attitudes of the main characters made it difficult to be invested in their fate. There are only vague hints given as to who is pulling the strings in the vivarium, and what these entities hope to learn in order to possibly conquer humanity.

Written by Garret Shanley and Lorcan Finnegan, and directed by Lorcan Finnegan. Starring Jesse Eisenberg as Tom, Imogen Poots as Gemma, Jonathan Aris as Martin, Senan Jennings as Young Boy, and Eanna Hardwicke as Older Boy.  Rated R by the MPA for language and some sexuality/nudity. Runtime is one hour and 37 minutes.

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Stewart, Rastislav and Ken are back to review Clint Eastwood’s 2021 neo-western Cry Macho. This film had a lengthy development journey; the late N. Richard Nash originally intended this as a screenplay, but retooled it into a novel published in 1975. There were several attempts to bring it to the screen with potential leading men such as Eastwood, Robert Mitchum, Roy Scheider and even Arnold Schwarzenegger! It was finally realized with Eastwood pulling double duty in the lead role and in the director’s chair.

Mike Milo is a retired rodeo and ranch hand who was fired by his old boss and ranch owner for what appears as Mike ‘being too old’. A year later he is approached by his old boss to journey into Mexico to retrieve the ranch owners son from his delinquent mother and bring him back to the US. Along the way they meet some interesting people and create a bond with each other and the boys rooster named ‘Macho’.

Stewart enjoyed the easygoing wholesomeness of this film, but Rastislav and Ken felt the story and character development were half-baked in comparison to other Eastwood films such as Unforgiven and Gran Torino. They all appreciated the cinematography, music and production design.

There were other bright spots including some of the incidental characters (to Rastislav’s amusement) and the song “Find a New Home” written by the film’s composer Mark Mancina and performed by Will Bannister.

Written by Nick Schenk and N. Richard Nash (based on Nash’s novel) and directed by Clint Eastwood. Starring Eastwood as Mike, Eduardo Minett as Rafo, Dwight Yoakam as Howard, Natalia Traven as Marta and Fernanda Urrejola as Leta.

Film Rating: PG

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Stick that gun where the sun don't shine...Yeah where might that be? This MacGiver spoof is just what the proctologist ordered. MacGruber is a 2010 American action comedy film based on the Saturday Night Live sketch of the same name. MacGruber's work partner and love interest team up with a young lieutenant who becomes part of MacGruber's team to stop an evil villain called Dieter von Cunth from setting off a nuclear bomb. This movie didn't do so well in the box office, despite the big names behind it. Directed by Jorma Taccone, and starring Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, Val Kilmer and Ryan Phillippe.

Podcast Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Rating: Restricted

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Don't get caught in this spiders web like Lisbeth did. The Girl in the Spider's Web is a 2018 film and the 4th installment at producing this hacker/thriller and the 5th in the series. Lisbeth Salander is a young computer hacker and anarchist who is falsely accused of stealing a very important computer program. She has partnered with journalist Mikael Blomkvist who are set to take down cyber-criminals and corrupt government officials who are out to kill her. Directed by Fede Alvarez and starring Claire Foy, Beau Gadsdon, Sverrir Gudnason. This film is based on the Millennium series of best-selling and award-winning Swedish crime novels, created by journalist Stieg Larsson.

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Are you ready to kill your classmates with a pot lid? If so this film is for you. Battle Royale is a Japanese dystopian thriller from 2000 based in the near future. The Japanese government kidnaps a random class of ninth-grade students and forces them to kill each other under the revolutionary "Battle Royale" act. The film was controversial, underrated and was banned from distribution in several countries. Toei refused to sell the film to any United States distributor for a long time due to concerns about potential controversy and lawsuits. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, starring Tatsuya Fujiwara, Aki Maeda, and Tarô Yamamoto. This film was eventually released to western markets in 2010/2011 and has since become a cult movie. This movie never had a formal rating, but was rated 15 in Japan and has many scenes of extreme violence. Not suitable for younger viewers and watchable via subtitles.

Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos with Guest Tyler Reid

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If you put yourself in another mans shoes will you actually become that man? The Cobbler is a 2014 film that takes this concept and runs with it. Since his fathers disappearance Max has taken over the family shoe repair business and discovers a magical heirloom that allows him to walk in another persons shoes. This underrated dramatic comedy stars Adam Sandler, Steve Buscemi, Dustin Hoffin and is directed by Tom McCarthy.

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Do you believe in guardian angels?? If so the angels in this 1995 film certainly don't have your best interests at heart and would rather see your entrails laid out on the ground. The Archangel Gabriel is searching for an evil soul that is capable of turning the tides in an angelic civil war in heaven. A ex seminarian turned cop, a little girl, and her teacher have their work cut out for them as they try to stop Gabriel from attaining that soul for his own nefarious purposes. Directed by Gregory Widen; starring Christopher Walken, Elias Koteas, Virginia Madsen, Eric Stoltz and Viggo Mortensen. This movie series features 5 movies in total.

Your Hosts: Rastislav Miklos, Stewart Rathje, and guest Ken Flatt.

Watch the Trailer Below:

https://youtu.be/-ynKNaSkih4

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This 1986 drama film records the experiences of a slave trader whom converted to the Jesuit religious order in 18-century South America. After establishing a brand new mission in an eastern Paraguayan jungle the Jesuit missionaries must decide between their religious vows and protecting the Guarni people from a territorial dispute between the Spanish and the pro-slavery Portuguese. Directed by Roland Joffé, starring Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons and Liam Neeson.

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Do you want to be a part of our special peoples club? If you do, join us for this 1995 middle school coming of age film and you can be as special as you want. Welcome to the Dollhouse is a coming of age dark comedy directed by Todd Solondz. Dawn is a quirky and dorky girl with thick glasses who tries to fit in with her peers and goes to great lengths to ensure this happens. Starring Heather Matarazzo, Christina Brucato, Brendan Sexton III and Eric Mabius.

Watch the Trailer on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/5U0QG3L6XsE

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Only one sheep was killed in the making of this film. The dark comedy 'Four Lions' from 2010 takes you into the world of 4 inept muslims as they attempt Geeh@d on an unsuspecting marathon in Britain. Their ill-conceived plan culminates at the London Marathon with their bumbling attempts to disrupt the event while dressed in outlandish costumes. Directed by Christopher Morris. Also starring Will Adamsdale, Riz Ahmed, and Adeel Akhtar.

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"I don't want any trouble...I think you do miss piggy..." Hesher is a 2010 film about a self obsessed, fire starting, heavy metal rocker that is loosely based on the real life Metallica band member Cliff Burton. The movie explores the dynamic relationship between Hesher, a young boy who lost his mother in a car crash, and his depressed Father. Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Rainn Wilson, Natalie Portman, Devin Brochu and directed by Spencer Susser.

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Watch out kids, cover your ears, and get out your plastic golf clubs because the zombies are coming for you in this R rated version of Sesame Street. Little Monsters is a 2019 zombie comedy film and an international co-production from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, it stars. The story revolves around a washed-up musician and a kindergarten teacher who are dead set on protecting a group of young schoolchildren during a sudden outbreak of zombies. Directed by Abe Forsythe and staring Lupita Nyong'o, Alexander England, Kat Stewart, Diesel La Torraca and Josh Gad.

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Stewart, Rastislav and Ken return for Off the Record, and speak on the memory of Ozzy Osbourne. Ken begins with a glowing review of 2020’s Rockfield: the Studio on the Farm; Ozzy, Tony Iommi and many others were interviewed for this documentary on the studio built by Charles and Kingsley Ward. The Welsh farming brothers provided the backdrop for Black Sabbath and other UK bands to create enduring pop and rock classics, and have weathered industry changes to continue operating.Stewart continues with a review of the 2023 sci fi thriller Simulant, a low budget affair that nevertheless utilized its actors and story to impress Stewart; he favourably compares this film to Blade Runner. Robbie Amell, Jordana Brewster, Simu Liu and Sam Worthington headline.Rastislav then brings more UK praise with his review of the Ricky Gervais series After Life (2019-2022). He enjoyed Gervais’ abrasive, uncompromising humour and observations of human nature.Moving to lesser picks, Ken reviews an early Mike Flanagan effort called Absentia (2011). While he found value in the character development between actors Katie Parker and Courtney Bell, he feels the low budget prevented Flanagan from creating a film with the intensity of his later releases.Stewart then expands on his Dead Like Me series review to administer last rites to its 2009 sequel movie Life After Death. Actors Ellen Muth and Callum Blue couldn’t enliven this finale to Stewart’s satisfaction.Rastislav concludes with his analysis of the recent Netflix sensation You (2018-2025), starring Penn Badgley, Victoria Pedretti and others. He felt the change in story backdrops kept the series from being consistently entertaining.

And if that wasn’t enough, Twisted Metal Season 2 leaves us with a bitter taste in Stewart’s mouth.

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In this special episode we summarize some of our favorite 12 films that are centered around priests or have religious themes.

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The film's story revolves around a young girl named Helena Campbell, who is sick of her family's career as circus performers. Helena's mother is hospitalized after they have an argument, and Helena finds herself trapped in a fantasy world shortly after. This 2005 film produced by the Jim Henson Company and the brainchild of Neil Gaiman. The film concepts were conceived while spending two weeks in the family home of Jim Henson, this film is sure to peak your interest even if it is a bit strange at times. This family movie has a PG rating is suitable for all audiences. Dream interpretation or an acid trip...you decide.

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This podcast delves into the Neo-noir high-school mafia movie 'Brick' from 2005. A teenage loner pushes his way into the underworld of a high school crime ring to investigate the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend. Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Nora Zehetner and directed by Rian Johnson.

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Do you think the corona virus is bad? Just wait until the virus mutates and we have a full blown zombie apocalypse on our hands. This podcast explores the 1964 'The Last Man on Earth' and what it would be like if a worldwide viral pandemic were to either infect or kill everyone it touches. Starring Vincent Price and based closely on the book 'I am Legend'

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Drunken revelry and singing mermaids in this podcast. The Lighthouse is inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's unfinished short story of the same name, stay tuned for more of this dark terror from the ocean.

Director: Robert Eggers

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"It's not safe for you here." Listen in and listen carefully as we unravel the final episodes of the murder mystery Sharp Objects.

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What do pig teeth and roller skates have in common in this murder mystery? Find out as explore episodes 2 through 4 of the TV series Sharp Objects.

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Dull Knives aren't on the table but 'Sharp Objects' are as we take a serious look at this psychological murder mystery. Join us today for this Premiere episode of the Unsung Cinematics Podcast.

The Episode Guide can be found on our website.

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The Unsung Cinematics podcast reviews some of the best kept secrets in TV and Film. Every week your hosts Stewart and Rasto provide insight to a misunderstood movie to see if it deserves the title of being “sung”. We dust off and discuss films and television shows that are considered underrated, forgotten, and even neglected.

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If ye scurvy landlubbers decide to visit the savage islands of the South Pacific, Nate and Hayes are the best guides you could have. Arrr!

This 1983 film bombed big in the box office, and bombed big with Siskel and Ebert! Nate and Hayes is based on the two real life characters Captain Bully Hayes and Ben Pease. Nate being the missionary type and Hayes being the rapscallion he is. Both team up to save Nate's wife who was kidnapped by the Pirate Ben Pease. They get into trouble, chase after what seems to be turn of the century warships, to get the lady back.

The film features plenty of would be jokes, although some seemingly timed poorly. Ken picked the film for review as it is our first swashbuckler review that he saw when he was 10. Rasto had some choice words to say about the film, and Stewart seemingly enjoyed what he deemed as 'Indiana Hayes and the Grumpy Fisherman.' The film had some suspicious elements that are seen in another Indiana Jones film, and also the modern Pirates of the Caribbean.

Written by the two famous writers Lloyd Phillips and John Hughes and directed by Ferdinand Fairfax. Starring Tommy Lee Jones as Bully Hayes, Michael O'Keefe as Nate, Max Phipps as Ben Pease and Jenny Seagrove as Sophie.

Film Rating: PG

Audio Clip from Nate and Hayes

Original Text Interview Siskel and Ebert

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In this edition of Off the Record Rastislav Miklos and Stewart Rathje take a look at films we watched recently. Unfortunately Ken was not able to make it this time.

Rasto enlightens us with his TV series that ran from 2016 to 2021. Rasto believes that four seasons is the perfect amount of time before a series goes stale. Billy Bob Thornton plays a disgraced lawyer, and ambulance chaser mixed with his keen cleverness.

Stewart then gives his take on the 1988 film The Couch Trip, featuring an escaped mental patient and convict played by Dan Aykroyd. This Crimedy didn’t deserve the ratings it did, and is full of laughs. Dan Aykroyds sidekick is played by Walter Matthau.

Rasto continues on the True Crime kick with the TV series Bosch from 2014 to 2021 but only managed to watch 2 seasons. The series continues to confuse Rasto on how they came up with the name of the show. He believes it was based on the famous painter from the 16th century, Hieronymus Bosch.

And finally Stewart’s lesser pick The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee from 2020 is parody of a film that pokes fun at retired actors and the high jinx they can get into. Featuring Paul Hogan as the main character, but graced with many cameo appearances from other actors such as Chevy Chase and John Cleese.

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Mother! from 2017 is not a typical movie you would show to your mother or father as the screenplay was written in just 5 days. The viewers were divided down the middle on ratings and it was considered a controversial film. Filled with religious symbolism that was loosely based on key moments of the old and new testament scriptures. Whether you consider this film good or bad, it will certainly will force you to dig deeper into it.

Written and Directed by Darren Aronofsky.

Starring Jennifer Lawrence as the mother, Javier Bardem as Him, Ed Harris as Man (Adam), and Michelle Pfeiffer as Woman (Eve).

You can Watch the Trailer Below:

It is not often that myself (Stewart) and Rasto disagree this much on a film, but here we are. Not only did we disagree on the Directors ability in this film, but also on the choice to cast Jennifer Lawrence as main character. Give the podcast a listen!

Below is a short clip from the film, where Mother had just given birth to her son, and the fanatics have taken him away from her.

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In this edition of Off the Record we take a peak at the following films and give tribute to Gene Hackman and Val Kilmer who have recently died. Thunderheart from 1992, Nocturne from 2020, The Hole from 2009, Uncommon Valor from 1983, 11:14 from 2003, Conclave from 2024, and the dishonorable mention of The Brutalist.

Notable Actors include. Val Kilmer, Sydney Sweeney, Madison Iseman, Chris Massoglia, Bruce Dern, Gene Hackman, Hilary Swank, Colins Hanks, and Ralph Fiennes.

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Does John Die at the End? This 2012 mashup of various film and horror genres is as unique as it comes. Based on the novel and web series of the same name, and written by the same author.
 
John and Dave are a couple of young slackers, with seemingly nothing going on in their life. However a chance encounter with a Bob Marley look-a-like sets them off in a tailspin as he knows things about their life no one should know. After ingesting a 'soy sauce' like drug, they realize they have new abilities to see into space, time, and alternate universes in real time. However, there is a curse with this drug as there is an ancient monster lurking in the shadows who seeks to use Dave and John for it's own purposes.

Directed by Don Coscarelli, and written by David Wong (Jason Pargin), who also wrote the novel. Notable cast include Chase Williamson as Dave, Rob Mayes as John, Paul Giamatti as Arnie, Fabianne Therese as Amy and Clancy Brown as Dr. Albert Marconi.

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We are here celebrating our 100th episode of the combined Off the Record and Full Length Editions. We go back to our earliest memories of cinema that had influenced us in our life. In this edition we look at Star Wars Episode 4 - A New Hope, Star Wars Episode 5 - The Empire Strikes Back, Permanent Vaction from 1980, PI from 1998, Upgrade from 2018 and finally Army of Darkness: Evil Dead 3 from 1992.

Thank You everyone for listening thus far, and we hope to produce 100 more!

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David Lynch created many films that shocked us, but he also knew how to give us...The Straight Story. Join us as we review this lesser viewed gem.
 
The Straight story from 1999 follows the real life events of an elderly man named Alvin Straight who has had a falling out with his brother many years prior. He finds out his brother has had a stroke and decides he needs to make amends. Due to Alvins own short comings, and inability to drive he has no way to reconnect with him in his remote house half way across the country from Iowa. In a daring plan Alvin Straight decides to fix up his old riding mower, attach a homemade trailer to it and make the trek alone. He encounters many interesting people in his journey.
 
Starring Richard Farnsworth as Alvin, and Sissy Spacek as Rose. Visit our website https://studiostation.xyz/unsung-cinematics/ for the various links mentioned in the episode.

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Episode 1 of 2025: In this edition we look at the following films: Nosferatu (2024), The Day of the Jackal (2024) Tv Series, Von Ryan's Express (1965), Arcadian (2024), Dinner in America (2021), The First Deadly Sin (1980) and The Lobster as an honorable mention.

Notable Actors Include: Willem Dafoe, Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Ursula Corbelo, Frank Sinatra, Trevor Howard, Nicholas Cage, Kyler Gallner, Emily Skeggs, Faye Dunaway.

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In this 3rd recording of Off the Record in 2026, Rastislav, Stewart and Ken bring some new films into the picture.

In our feature Rastislav compares two films about evil. I Saw the Devil from 2010, and Blue Velvet from 1986 represent stark opposites in how evil can be portrayed. I Saw the Devil being a Korean film directed by Kim Jee-woon and Blue Velvet by David Lynch. Both are well liked and are highly praised. One is more of a dark and psychological evil, while the other is a chaotic type. Stars include Kyle MacLachlan and Isabella Rossellini. The Korean film has Lee Byung-hun and Choi Min-sik as their main characters. Rasto gives us his impression of both films.

Stewart’s Greater pick Dangerous animals from 2025 directed by Sean Byrne — starring Hassie Harrison and Jai Courtney. The Dangerous animal in question are blood thirsty sharks off the gold coast, but the antagonist has a dark secret to be revealed to his would be captors. The film takes us slightly into the psyche of a serial killer, but remains true to the genre of a survivalist film.

Ken gives us a run-down of his man vs machine pick, Unstoppable from 2010. Directed by Tony Scott and featuring Denzel Washington with Chris Pine. The film is about a run-away train carrying dangerous chemicals and the efforts made to get the train under control. Based on real life events while still filled with action and suspense. This was Tony Scott’s last film unfortunately before he passed on. Ken gave it a fair assessment.

The Lesser pick by Stewart had an interesting premise, but fell way short in the delivery department. American Sweatshop from 2025 directed by Uta Briesewitz and starring Lili Reinhart attempts to give us an inside look into the lives of social media content moderators. The film is set in modern day Florida and the main character becomes obsessed with one of the recordings she saw while moderating. She hopes to get justice for the possible victim in the video.

And finally Ken recounted his experience with the 2016 sci-fi pick Colossal directed by Nacho Vigalondo and Anne Hathaway as the lead actor. Unfortunately there was a bit of a bait and switch as the film had a darker edge than Ken expected, rather than the whimsical sci-fi comedy he was expecting.

And one final note from Stewart is the disappointing 2026 series finale of Good Omens that left a bad taste for Stewart and seemingly the fans.

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Based on 1570's Feudal Japan, this historical epic was a masterpiece of its time. Akira Kurosawa was near the end of his career, and hadn't made a film in some time, but this was his valiant return with the Film Kagemusha: the Shadow Warrior. The film almost never seen the light of day if it weren't for the Western counterparts to cover the remaining budget and distribution.

Based on the true events Takeda Shingen and his clan, this film delves into the historical aspects of the era and the politic behind it. The famous warlord dies to an assassin of one of the competing factions, but one of his last requests was to keep the appearance that he was alive for the sake of the clan. The top generals of this clan seek out a shadow warrior or counterfeit Shingen to play the roll of the warlord. Many competing clans are fighting for power, and suspect he may be dead, but are unable to say for certain.

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, with George Lucas, and Francis Ford Coppola and starring Tatsuya Nakadai.

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In this edition of 'Off the Record' we take a look at the following films: Hundreds of Beavers (2022), The Primevals (2023), Red One (2024), Thelma (2024), A time to Kill (1996), Mississippi Burning (1988).
 
Notable Actors include Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, Samuel L Jackson, Gene Hackmann, Willem Dafoe, Ryland Brickson, Cole Tews, Juliet Mills, Dwayne Johnson, Lucy Lui, J.K. Simmons, Chris Evans, June Squibb, and Clark Gregg

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Is this a Murder Mystery? A Pretty Woman prequel? Perhaps it is a Romantic Drama. We aren't quite sure, but Klute from 1971 was certainly praised.
 
Set in what was the modern day early 70's, a detective, a high class call girl, and a corporate chief have their lives entangled as they try to solve a murder mystery. Bree Daniel runs afoul with John Klute who is investigating the death. She is determined not to get attached to him or to reveal her secrets, but she seemingly caves to his dry and calm demeanor. Who dun it? In this review we take a look in depth of this classic film to see if it has aged well like fine wine or more like a dried up prune.
Starring Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland and Charles Cioffi. Directed by Alan J. Pakula and Written by Andy and David Lewis.

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In this edition of 'Off the Record' we take a look at the following films: Featured is Klute (1971), Wyrmwood Road of the Dead (2014), Get Thrashed (2006), Locke (2013), The Girl in the Pool (2024), The 4:30 Movie (2024).

Notable Actors include Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, Jay Gallagher, Lee Altus, Tom Hardy, Freddie Prinze Jr., and Kevin Smith



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Wyrmwood Apocalypse is a brainless zombie horror from 2021 that features most of the same characters as the original Wyrmwood film.
 
Set in the near future, this dystopian terror, is different than other films in this genre as of late due to the fact that it uses mostly practical effects for the savage amusement of the fans. Even though many of the original fans were critical of this hack and slash due to them lessening the slapstick element it still manages to entertain. The films main character is a paid for hire mercenary who hunts outlaws, zombies and hybrids. He is forced to make a difficult choice as his employer is doing experiments on hybrid zombies and humans to further their agenda. 
 
Starring Luke McKenzie as Rhys, Nicholas Boshier as the Surgeon General, Shantae Barnes-Cowan as Maxi, Bianca Bradey as Brooke and Tasia Aziar as Grace. This film is the brainchild of Kiah Roache-Turner.

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In this episode of 'Off The Record' our feature pick was Apartment 7A and the following films: Future 38', The Boat that Rocked, Civil War, VHS Beyond and About A Boy and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice as a honorable mention.

Notable actors include: Michael Keaton, Julia Garner, Betty Gilpin, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Kirsten Dunst, Brian Baker and Hugh Grant.

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The Neon Demon is a psychological horror film produced from the mind of Nicolas Refn and those living the high life in California. Amazon picked up the film as one of it's premiere features in 2016. Rated R for swearing, nudity, violence, and adult subjects.
 
The story features a young aspiring 16 year old new to Los Angeles and new to the modeling scene. She is instantly successful with everyone she meets. Climbing the ladder quickly, everyone around her sees her as some unique flower ready to be picked. However her innocence and newness produces jealousy and drama as some dark secrets of the other career girls seek to get what she has through cruel and gruesome ways.
 
Directed by Nicolas Refn, written by Nicolas Refn and Mary Laws. Starring Elle Fanning as Jesse, Christina Hendricks as Roberta, Keanu Reeves as Hank, Karl Glusman as Dean, Jena Molone as Ruby and Belle Heathcote as Gigi.

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Ken went to the Canadian Fan Expo 2024 - he shared some of his experiences with the Toronto based conference that is focused on comics, film, tv and gaming. Plenty of fun!

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In this summer edition of Off the Record we take a look at the following: Feature this time is The Crow from 2024, Joyride films from 2001, 2008 and 2014, Snack Snack from 2024, Lowlife from 2017 and Evil Season 3 from 2024.

Notable Actors include Bill Skarsgard, Steve Zahn, Paul Walker, Conor Shery, Gabriel LaBelle, Katja Herbers, and Mark Burnham.

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Danny Greene is a legend in his time, as he was prominent in his Irish community as the one who took on the mafia in Cleveland during the 60's and 70's. Cleveland was dubbed as 'Bomb City USA' during the bombings of 1976 and Danny was right in the thick of it.
 
Kill the Irishman is a based on the true story of his life and dealings with the Mafia. The story starts with his clash with his union boss, and then moving onto bigger fish by starting the Irish Mafia in Cleveland. He was a true force to be reckoned with. This film is not a documentary but a portrayal of how it really happened. He certainly had the luck of the Irish on his side as the mob tried to kill him many times.
 
Directed and Written by Jonathan Hensleigh. Starring famous actors Val Kilmer, Ray Stephenson, Christopher Walken, and Vincent D'Onofrio as the leads.

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Disclaimer: The publicist for The Italians contacted the Unsung Cinematics team and asked them to review this film. They received no compensation in return for their review, and their opinions are their own.

In this family, everything is on the table! For their new full length episode, Stewart, Rastislav and Ken review The Italians, a 2025 release from All In Pictures. It played at several film festivals and has been available on VOD since April 2025. The screenplay is by Lisa Phillips Visca, and Michelle Danner is the director and lead actress in the role of Angelina.

The story follows Angelina and Vincenzo, a California-based couple whose marriage definitely has its share of ups and downs. The newest shake-up arrives when their son Nico brings his new girlfriend Lily to a family dinner; she is a vegetarian atheist, which of course conflicts with Angelina and Vincenzo’s old school values. Vincenzo sees Nico’s affection for her and is more welcoming, but friction between Angelina and Lily soon becomes evident. Unfortunately, this won’t be the only trial for Angelina; a health challenge, a secret held by Vincenzo and a reunion with her estranged mother will need to be faced. With enough humour and heart, this dysfunctional family can hopefully get back to bonding at the dinner table.

Stewart, Rastislav and Ken all agree that the cast elevated the material; their line deliveries were very clear, which was appreciated in light of how dialogue can be hard to distinguish in some modern films. There was some feeling that Visca’s experience with stage plays needs further adaptation to the craft of screenwriting. There are some story stumbles early on, but more of a groove is found as the film progresses. They felt that Danner (who is also an acting coach) was effective in her portrayal, likely informed by her family experiences. 

Written by Lisa Phillips Visca, and directed by Michelle Danner. Starring Danner as Angelina, Rob Estes as Vincenzo, Matthew Daddario as Nico, Abigail Breslin as Lily, Perrey Reeves as Min, Luca Riemma as Father Joe, and Lainie Kazan as Lucia. Unrated, but has some coarse language and suggestive content.

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Our featured film for this edition of Off the Record is Road House from 1989 and the 2024 version. Also in this episode is Tucker and Dale vs Evil, Army of Shadows, Winchester, and Last Stop in Yuma County.
 
Notable Actors include: Patrick Swayze, Jake Gyllenhall, Conor McGregor, Tyler Labine, Alan Tudyk, Lino Ventura, Helen Mirren, and Jim Cummings.

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Art School Confidential is a 2006 parody film of college life as a student. The film is filled with plenty of nonsense, pretentious behaviour, backstabbing and a side of murder mystery. Based on the partially true events of a graphic novelists journey through art school and also part fiction. Trashed by critics, will this film be revived or is it simply destined for the waste bin. 
 
Directed by the same director of ghost world (Terry Zwigoff) and Screenplay by Daniel Clowes. Starring Max Minghella, Sophia Myles and John Malkovich. Special appearances from Anjelica Huston and Steve Buscemi.

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In this edition of Off the Record we review the following films: Late Night with the Devil, Hunter Prey, Memories of Murder, Captive State, Midsommar, and I Saw the Devil.
 
Notable actors include, David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Clark Bartram, Song Kang-ho, John Goodman, Florence Pugh, Will Poulter, and Lee Byung-hun.

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The Hidden is a R rated film of car chases, alien parasites, and a crime mystery gone wrong. In this action packed 1987 cult classic many genres are blended together to create this interesting tale.

An FBI agent and a local LA cop team up to hunt down a bizarre criminal that has killed, stolen and has been on a terror spree. Little does the local cop know, but he is in for a wild ride that involves a extra terrestrial mystery. The both keep following a string of murders from seemingly random people but eventually realize they are actually after an alien symbiote who has enjoyed their life on earth a little too much.

Directed by Jack Sholder, and starring Kyle MacLachlan as Lloyd, Michael Nouri as Tom, Claudia Christian as Brenda, and William Boyetts as one of the hosts. Also with a special appearance of Danny Trejo as the punk in jail.

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In this edition of Off the Record we take a look at the following films: The Passenger (2023), Perfect Days (2023), Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024), Fast Charlie (2023), True Detective 4th Season and Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist.
 
Notable Actors Include: Merah Benoit and Johnny Berchtold, Koji Yakusho, Paul Rudd, Dan Aykroyd, Pierce Brosnan, Jodie Foster, Kevin Sorbo.

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Doggy Bank is mini-series based on a novel by legendary Brazilian novelist Machado de Assis who passed away 100 years ago with little notice outside his country. The series follows the story of a broke and dimwitted slacker who is hired by a mad philosopher to babysit his pampered pooch. What follows is a satirical exploration of wealth and loyalty, but with a few more belly laughs. With humor, Corrêa explores layered international and thought-provoking stories using Brazilian culture as a vehicle to navigate U.S. settings.

Directed and produced and co-written by Thales Corrêa, with actors featuring Thales Corrêa as Julian, Anthony Moore as Borba as well as Jer, and Andrea Flowers as Prana.

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In this February/March Edition of Off The Record our feature film is Dune Part II. We also look at the following films: Inside from (2023), Fear Is The Key (1972), Last Flag Flying from (2017), 65 from (2023) and finally Red Right Hand from (2024) which both Ken and Rasto watched and directed by the Nelms brothers.
 
Notable actors include: Timothee Chalamet, Christopher Walken, Willem Dafoe, Barry Newman, Ben Kingsley, Bryan Cranston, Laurence Fishburne, Steve Carell, Adam Driver, and Orlando Bloom.

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