Shows
The Middle of CultureWhen Doves Cry, We DraftThis week we keep things intentionally low-effort and high-chaos by drafting the Billboard year-end #1 songs from 1980 through 1999. We each build a ten-song playlist from a shared pool, knowing that once a song is picked, it’s gone forever. Along the way we uncover timeless masterpieces, generational blind spots, slow-dance trauma, and more than a few baffling chart decisions. By the end, it’s less about “best songs of all time” and more about what pop culture we survived — and what it says about the decades that made us.Cold Open & Life UpdatesEden survives Iowa weather whiplash...
2025-12-2152 minThe Middle of CultureWe Have Opinions: The Fast-Food Tier List Nobody Asked ForThis week, we come in hot — starting with wuxia vibes, holiday chaos, and cursed Christmas remixes of “September” — before diving into music stats, Taskmaster binges, Eden’s Wuxia/Baihe adventures, and Peter’s latest reading spree (including Gödel, Escher, Bach). Eventually, we embark on the Most Important Cultural Work of Our Time: a fast-food and fast-casual tier list. Along the way, we crown unexpected champions, bury some long-held myths (looking directly at you, In-N-Out), and declare Waffle House the beating heart of American civilization. It’s unhinged, joyful, occasionally shameful, and fully definitive.Opening Shenani...
2025-12-071h 18The Middle of CultureK-Pop Demon Hunters: The Cultural Mystery TourThis week, we finally dive into the cultural behemoth that is K-Pop Demon Hunters—six months late and fully confused. We talk through how this extremely catchy, hyper-animated, wildly popular kids’ movie managed to conquer 2025, even though it’s… fine? We break down what works (the faces, the music, that glorious fat tiger), what doesn’t (the pacing, the unearned romance, the baffling reconciliation), and why we’re still not convinced it deserves the cultural chokehold it has. Plus, we catch up on everything we’ve been checking out lately—from doom metal to City Pop to WOJIA novels—and wonder how we...
2025-11-241h 01The Middle of CultureYou Got the Touch: The Transformers One Redemption ArcThis week on The Middle of Culture, we close out our dive into Transformers with Transformers One, last year’s animated prequel that tells the origin story of Optimus and Megatron. We rave about how shockingly good it is—beautiful animation, heartfelt storytelling, and voice performances that actually make you care about robots punching each other. Along the way, we talk about Sanderson’s declining prose, the “YA-ification” of modern fiction, the decline of mass-market paperbacks, and why we’ll always have a soft spot for dumb robot movies done well.Episode Notes
2025-11-111h 05The Middle of CultureOptimus Prime is a dick!In this week’s Middle of Culture, we dive deep into our usual blend of media obsession and existential humor — from the strange delights of villainess light novels and the chaos of gacha games to Tron Ares, which Eden declares “not a good movie… but maybe the best Tron movie.” Peter shares his thoughts on new music from Conjurer and Author & Punisher, reviews Wind and Truth with mixed feelings, and outlines a possible new nonfiction project exploring the moral dehumanization of healthcare. We close by revisiting the bizarre early UK Transformers comics — where Optimus is kind of a jerk, Starscream b...
2025-10-2757 minThe Middle of CultureLook Back: Emotional Devastation in 58 MinutesThis week, we dive headfirst into emotional ruin — courtesy of Look Back, the devastatingly beautiful anime film by Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto. Before we get our hearts ripped out, we unpack a flood of new music releases — including Testament’s Para Bellum and Fayle's haunting Heretics and Lullabies — rail against Microsoft’s Game Pass price hike, and talk streaming fatigue and piracy. Peter also shares his new plan to train like a writer-athlete with a three-month learning sprint, while Eden reviews Nine Inch Nails’ Tron: Ares soundtrack, gushes about Apothecary Diaries, and explains why a Regency “choose your own adventure”...
2025-10-131h 03The Middle of CultureWould You Rather? The Cursed EditionPeter and Eden cover a whirlwind couple of weeks—family milestones, stressful schedules, and the search for meaning outside of work—before diving into media updates like Escaflone, In Mourning’s crushing new album, and the delightfully cursed Ice Cube–starring War of the Worlds (2025). From there, things spiral into chaos with a marathon of “Would You Rather?” questions that range from the silly to the philosophical, including fart announcements, glitter burps, pinky-finger super strength, and whether you’d rather have a South Park wedding or a Family Guy funeral. It’s the most chaotic fun you’ll have all week.
2025-09-1459 min
The Middle of CultureHeavy Trucks, Heavier Nihilism: Sorcerer (1977)This week Eden and Peter dive into William Friedkin’s gritty 1977 thriller Sorcerer, a tense and sweat-soaked remake of The Wages of Fear. They talk through the film’s nihilistic worldview, Friedkin’s unrelenting direction, and Tangerine Dream’s eerie score that pushes the movie into fever-dream territory. Along the way, they share personal stories of how the film lingered in memory for decades, debate whether Sorcerer deserved its original flop status, and marvel at the sheer intensity of the bridge sequence. They also connect the film to broader cultural legacies—from the shadow of Star Wars to the way cult c...
2025-08-311h 09The Middle of CultureThe Juice ain't Worth the Squeeze—Media TrackingWhat starts as a simple dive into media tracking apps quickly spirals into tangents about puzzles from hell, glamping with bison and mustangs, fistfights with Satan in Pittsburgh, and the glory days of scrobbling music. Along the way, Peter and Eden hash out their very different relationships with games, books, music, and movies—and why, at the end of the day, “the juice is not worth the squeeze” when it comes to tracking everything we consume.Opening catch-up: Eden returns from travel and vents about the oppressive Midwestern humidity.Eden recounts a cursed puzzle...
2025-08-171h 02
The Middle of CultureScience and Heart beats Capes and PunchingIn this episode, Eden and Peter dive into Fantastic Four: First Steps, a surprisingly hopeful and aesthetically stunning addition to the MCU. They unpack the film’s utopian vision, its fresh take on superhero storytelling, and why it might be one of Marvel’s most emotionally resonant efforts to date. From retrofuturist aesthetics to character depth and non-violent resolutions, they explore how this movie dares to imagine a better world—and why that makes it so special.Episode Show Notes:Catching up: Peter’s travel chaos, shaving disasters, and reading Tiny Experiments by Anne...
2025-08-031h 08
The Middle of CultureThey Finally Get SupermanEpisode SummaryThis week on The Middle of Culture, Peter and Eden dive into Superman 2025—a movie they both expected to disappoint, but ultimately left them grinning. They discuss why this version of Superman finally understands the character, their favorite portrayals (hello, Nicholas Hoult’s Lex), and the messy charm of a movie that somehow pulls off being packed without tipping over. Along the way, they touch on camping with CPAPs, ADHD and habit formation, cello-driven metal, and why The Office still sucks. It’s a jam-packed, joyful takedown and celebration of what might be DC’s best swi...
2025-07-201h 07
The Middle of CultureSuplexing Starscream—Transformers Vol 1: Robots in DisguiseEpisode Summary:This week, Peter and Eden dive headfirst into the high-octane world of Daniel Warren Johnson’s Transformers comic run, exploring its explosive art, emotional beats, and G1 nostalgia. Along the way, they unpack the pains of modern TV consumption, vent about doomed adaptations, and gush over goth rock albums and short-form sci-fi. It’s a heartfelt mix of media love, mild despair, and giant robots punching each other in the face—with feeling.Show Notes:Peter kicks things off with a July 4th check...
2025-07-061h 06
The Middle of CultureDC in Tiers: From Superman to F*** You ForeverIn this lively and irreverent episode of The Middle of Culture, Peter and Eden build a tier list ranking 29 DC movies, from the highs of Christopher Reeve's iconic Superman to the lows of Black Adam, which earns a new category all its own: "F*** You Forever." Along the way, they debate the merits of Nolan's Batman trilogy, praise Margot Robbie while trashing her material, and wax poetic about Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman and the ridiculous joy of Catwoman (2004). The episode also dives into recent reads, including the emotionally devastating Adachi and Shimamura 99.9, with Eden delivering an impassioned recounting that might...
2025-06-221h 05
The Middle of CultureFrom Dollhouses to Deathrails: The Taking of Pelham ONe Two Three (1974)Show Notes:Life Updates & Pencil Parties- Eden recounts a surreal Minneapolis trip to witness the "sharpening" of a 20-foot neighborhood pencil statue.- Attendees included 1,500+ people, costumes, DJs, and a fake giant pencil sharpener hoisted into place.- Cassi already has cosplay plans for next year.Dollhouses, Gundams & DIY Projects- Eden builds a full miniature room box to pose model kits like Gundams in.- Explores the satisfying craft process of assembling furniture, windows, and baseboards in a modular design.Music...
2025-06-101h 07
The Middle of CultureOops, All Bummers: Edith FinchEpisode Notes:- The episode opens with Eden reading a Tumblr post that hilariously and bleakly explains modern burnout as a result of living in a crumbling world. Peter and Eden relate strongly, setting the tone for a cathartic conversation.- Eden checks in with the ongoing Adachi and Shimamura manga journey. Volume 8 features a flash-forward to adulthood and two momentous forehead kisses.- Gaming fatigue takes center stage as Eden recounts failed attempts to get into Sunhaven, Paradise Killer, and even the stylish-but-demanding Shenmue. Nothing sticks.- Eden shares a...
2025-05-271h 01
The Middle of CultureHulk Smashes, Spiritbox Rocks, Nikki ImplodesShow Notes:- Spiritbox concert recap: Peter attended a standout show in Salt Lake City, noting the energy, mixed-gender crowd, and explosive live performance that solidifies Spiritbox's rising status in metal.- Graduation celebrations: Aubrey graduated from the University of Utah; Peter recounts the efficient ceremony and celebratory Rodizio Grill outing.- TTRPG return: Peter is back to GMing, running Keys from the Golden Vault for his old group, reflecting on the prep and joy of returning to the table.Reading updates:- Peter: The Artist's Way to rekindle...
2025-05-111h 06
The Middle of CultureThe Muppet Christmas Carol vs. The WorldWhat We've Been Up ToPeter's Update: - Recovering from a cold - Saw his wife Elissa perform as Mary Poppins in local theater - Unable to watch planned content like Andor and Daredevil Born Again - Finished playing Avowed, started Eternal Strands but finding limited character progression - Considering returning to Dragon Age: The Veilguard and excited about Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion RemasteredEden's Update: - Preparing for Free Comic Book Day at their comic shop - Working with local...
2025-04-2754 min
The Middle of CultureCrafting Without Pain, Choices Without Mercy📝 Episode Notes🎮 Main Topic: RPG Mechanics We Love (and Why Avowed Stands Out)- The hosts highlight key RPG mechanics that elevate the player experience: - Maps that matter: Clarity, verticality, and incentivized exploration. - Visible resources on mini-maps: Encourages environmental interaction and rewards curiosity. - Streamlined crafting: Especially for those who don't usually like crafting--Avowed's system is intuitive and meaningful. - Sound cues for treasures: Smart audio design reinforces exploration loops. - Pre-battle preparation: Crafting buffs (health, essence, stat boosts) that have meaningful impacts on bot...
2025-04-131h 11
The Middle of CultureThe Saddest Droid in Star Wars - Andor Season 1Catching Up:• Peter shares a laid-back spring break filled with Avowed, a vasectomy, and home recovery. He praises the game's gray morality and engaging writing.• Eden talks about buying a Boox Palma (a minimalist e-reader) to curb phone addiction, reading five books in a week, and recommends the Practice Perfect romance series by Carson Tate.Tech Dalliances:• Both hosts talk about recent tech indulgences.• Eden raves about the Boox Palma as a life-improving gadget for focused reading.• Peter details his journey with the Ayn Odin 2 Portal, a handheld A...
2025-03-301h 08
The Middle of CultureMusic for a lifetime: Our Desert Island PicksWelcome back!• Peter and Eden catch up on life, touching on:• Why modern society feels like a "hellscape."• Eden's unique take on a book club (it's really just a reason to meet at a bar and talk about books).• A foray into Bad Movie Bros, a community dedicated to watching and laughing at terrible films.• Highlights from their recent March Badness-- including absurd movies like The Core and the utterly bizarre 1980 film The Apple.Cultural Tangents & Side Discussions• The joys of intentionally bad movies and their abilit...
2025-03-171h 03
The Middle of CultureAkane Banashi - Tradition and AmbitionLife Updates & Gaming AdventuresThe February blues hit hard as we commiserate about adulting struggles, work deadlines, and the never-ending battle against muddy paw printsEden champions Obsidian's Avowed as a triumph of weird fantasy and complex moral choices that puts other RPGs on noticePeter confesses he hasn't fallen under Avowed's spell yet but is intrigued by Eden's passionate defense of its uniquenessMusical JourneysPeter takes us into the melancholic melodies of Dawn of Solace and the powerful vocal performances in Lacuna Coil's latest releases...
2025-03-0258 min
The Middle of CultureAll Systems RedWelcome back to another exciting episode of The Middle of Culture! Your hosts, Peter and Eden, are here to dive into the world of pop culture, sci-fi, and everything in between. This week, we’re braving the cold and tackling a highly recommended novella that’s been on our TBR list for far too long.What we are checking out:Peter has been diving into some serious reading, tackling "The Lost Metal" from the Mistborn series and a nonfiction book on philosophyEden has been exploring new manga and video games, including finishing "Nich...
2025-02-1746 min
The Middle of CultureThe Media Report: 2025Welcome back to The Middle of Culture. This week, we take a deep dive into the state of entertainment in 2025. From the bleak outlook of upcoming movies and TV to the rare gems in music and video games, we break down what we’re anticipating with excitement and what we’re bracing for in disappointment.Movies and TVMission Impossible: The Final Reckoning -- The only movie Peter is planning to see opening weekendSuperman: Legacy and Fantastic Four -- Will DC's latest reboot succeed? Will Marvel recover?Disney's live-action remakes (Lilo...
2025-02-031h 11
The Middle of CultureThe Matrix ResurrectionsThis Week on "The Middle of Culture": Return to The Matrix!Twenty years after Neo and Trinity's supposed final chapter, we're diving deep into 2021's surprise sequel "The Matrix Resurrections." After weeks of defending the oft-maligned sequels, we're here to ask: Does this unexpected return stick the landing? (Spoiler: We might have some hot takes that'll surprise you!)🎮 What We're Into:- Eden's getting existential with the haunting manga "Girls' Last Tour" and battling through the God Eater series (even if the games aren't exactly masterpieces)- Peter's finally ready to tac...
2025-01-1959 min
Generations2025 Themes and GoalsIt's a new year, and on this episode of Generations, we talk about our plans for 2025, focusing on our goals and themes. We discuss our methods for tracking our progress, what some of those goals are, and how we think last year went. • Aubrey discusses the start of the new semester and her excitement about returning to school and wedding planning.• Peter reflects on a tough start to the year due to work challenges.Wedding Planning Updates:• Aubrey shares that she has chosen her wedding dress and secured a venue and photog...
2025-01-1448 min
The Middle of CultureUltimate Movie BracketIn this special retrospective episode of The Middle of Culture, Eden and Peter reflect on two years of podcasting by pitting every movie they've covered in a bracket-style showdown to crown the "Best Movie of the Podcast (So Far)." This reflective journey explores their evolving tastes, the movies that shaped their discussions, and the surprises along the way.Highlights- Catching Up: Eden and Peter share life updates, holiday anecdotes, and recent media they've consumed, from action games like God of War to the folk music of Forndom and Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series....
2025-01-071h 05
The Middle of CultureThe Matrix RevolutionsThis week, we return to dissect The Matrix Revolutions, the third and originally final installment in the Matrix series. From its action-heavy sequences to its emotional farewells, we explore how the film concludes Neo's journey and its place in the trilogy. Along the way, we discuss their latest media obsessions, frustrations with games, and what's on our radar this holiday season.Episode Highlights:• Personal updates: Peter shares his writing goals and Eden looks forward to a quiet holiday break.• What we're into:• Peter's latest reads include finishing the original Mistborn trilogy and st...
2024-12-241h 07
The Middle of CultureThe matrix ReloadedPeter and Eden are back, diving headfirst into their analysis of The Matrix Reloaded. They explore its ambitious themes, dazzling action sequences, and how it stacks up against the original Matrix. From the philosophical depth of free will and control to Morpheus' magnetic leadership, the hosts dissect what makes this movie a messy yet compelling cinematic experience.Episode Highlights:• Desert Chronicles: Eden shares their relaxed Palm Springs getaway, complete with a Bing Crosby connection, senior living quirks, and the joys of retro cable TV ads.• Thanksgiving Recap: Peter talks about on-call holiday drama and...
2024-12-091h 08
The Middle of CultureSurviving NovemberThis week on The Middle of Culture, Eden and Peter navigate the whirlwind that is November. We delve into our personal struggles and victories, offering our listeners a peek into our hectic lives, creative endeavors, and coping strategies for challenging times.Key Highlights:The November Grind: Peter shares his experience participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) for the third year, discussing the challenges of staying motivated while juggling work and life stress. He offers insights into using tools like Obsidian to streamline his writing process and reflects on the emotional toll of creative burnout.
2024-11-2455 min
The Middle of CultureThe Matrix# The Middle of Culture - The Matrix (1999)In this episode, hosts Peter and Eden dive into the groundbreaking 1999 film The Matrix. Having not seen it in nearly 20 years, Peter watches it for the first time since the early 2000s, while Eden revisits this influential sci-fi classic.First, we discuss what we have been checking out lately, with Eden discussing "Pupposites Attract" and Peter discussing his different approach to NaNoWriMo this year. Then we dive into "The Matrix", discussing such things as:- The film's incredible lasting influence on cinema, fashion, video...
2024-10-2755 min
The Middle of CulturePixels and the Passage of TimePixels, Preferences, and the Passage of Time: A Gaming JourneyThis week on "The Middle of Culture," Eden and Peter dive into the ever-shifting landscape of their video game tastes. But before they press start on the main topic, they level up listeners with their recent media adventures!Eden takes us on a whirlwind tour:- They ponder whether "The Wild Robot" tugs at heartstrings or manipulates emotions- Their dragon-sized anticipation for "Dragon Age: The Veilguard," complete with a nostalgic stroll through Bioware's gaming history- A yakuza-style...
2024-10-131h 02
The Middle of CultureSolaris (2002)Buckle up, culture enthusiasts! Eden and Peter are back, and they're taking you on an interstellar journey to the haunting world of Solaris. But first, fasten your seatbelts for a whirlwind tour of their latest obsessions:🎸 Peter's been headbanging to Nightwish's new album, "Yeserwynde" - but is it too bombastic? He's found solace in the gritty, aggressive sounds of Bay Area thrash legends, Exodus. Meanwhile, he's still spellbound by Sanderson's "Mistborn: The Final Empire."🎮 Eden's been tilling the virtual soil in "Coral Island" and got their circuits buzzing with "Transformers One."Now, prepare for li...
2024-09-291h 01
The Middle of CultureSolaris (1972)Tarkovsky's "Solaris" Divides Our Hosts!Journey with us through the cosmos of pop culture in this week's episode of The Middle of Culture! Our hosts dive deep into the enigmatic world of Andrei Tarkovsky's 1972 sci-fi classic, "Solaris." But before we blast off, strap in for our signature pop culture roundup:- Diablo 4: Is it heaven or hell?- Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn: Worth a re-read?- New sonic landscapes from A Swarm of the Sun and Oceans of Slumber- Eden's musical discoveries and galactic adventures in Star Wars Outlaws
2024-09-1759 min
The Middle of CultureTV CouplesGet ready for an unexpected ride on this week's "The Middle of Culture"! Life threw us a curveball, but Eden and I rolled with the punches, delivering an episode packed with pop culture goodness.First, we dive deep into our recent obsessions:- Eden takes us on a journey through the grim darkness of Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader and the galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: Outlaws.- Comic book fans, perk up your ears – Eden's got the latest scoop from the world of panels and speech bubbles.- Meanwhile, I...
2024-09-041h 07
The Middle of CultureKnights of the Zodiac (2023)This week on "The Middle of Culture," brace yourselves for an epic journey into cinematic chaos! Eden and Peter dive headfirst into the 2023 live-action adaptation of 'Knights of the Zodiac,' based on the beloved anime 'Saint Seiya.' But why would our intrepid hosts willingly subject themselves to this cosmic catastrophe? Buckle up because Peter's behind-the-scenes tale of how this movie made it onto their watchlist might outshine the film itself. Get ready for an episode that's equal parts hilarious commentary, nostalgic musings, and a masterclass in questionable decision-making. Trust us, you won't want to miss this zodiac-sized adventure!
2024-08-1855 min
The Middle of CultureSan Diego Comic Con 2024Join us for an insider's look at San Diego Comic Con 2024! This week on 'The Middle of Culture,' Eden and Peter share their unique perspectives on the world's biggest pop culture event. From Eden's presentation at the Comic Arts Conference to Peter's first-time experience, discover the highlights beyond the Hall H hype.Dive into their adventures on the bustling conference floor, gain insights from intriguing panels, and get the scoop on upcoming TV announcements from Ballroom 20. Plus, don't miss their exclusive thoughts on Apple TV+'s 'Silo' season 2 reveal!Whether you're a seasoned con-goer...
2024-07-311h 13
The Middle of CultureSpeed Racer (2008)Buckle up for a high-octane episode of "The Middle of Culture" as hosts Eden and Peter, fueled by their passion for film, rev their engines for a deep dive into the Wachowski sisters' 2008 film "Speed Racer." At the time, it was a critical and commercial flop, but since its release, this visually stunning adaptation has gained a devoted following. But does it truly deserve a victory lap?Before hitting the track, our hosts share their current media obsessions:- Peter's self-inflicted productivity book challenge- Eden's adventures in the latest Final Fantasy XIV...
2024-07-0852 min
The Middle of CultureMadame WebMadame Web: Marvel Masterpiece or Cinematic Catastrophe?Swing into the world of Sony's latest Spider-Verse entry! This week on 'The Middle of Culture,' hosts Eden and Peter face off in an epic showdown over 'Madame Web.' Is it a hidden gem or a box office disaster? Eden's fallen under the movie's spell, while Peter claims it's more toxic than a radioactive spider bite. Join us for a hilarious, no-holds-barred debate as we:- Unravel the tangled mess that is the plot- Debate the relative values of...
2024-06-251h 07
The Middle of CultureAction Movie BracketIn this week's episode of “The Middle of Culture,” hosts Eden and I dive into a variety of topics, from personal anecdotes and life updates to a lively discussion about our favorite action movies. I share my experience of living the temporary bachelor life while my family visits Alaska, and Eden discusses their new work project focused on improving website accessibility. The episode’s highlight is an entertaining bracket showdown where we determine the best action movie from a list of 32 contenders, ultimately crowning a surprising entry as the winner.
2024-06-0958 min
The Middle of CultureLoving live musicOn this week's episode of “The Middle of Culture,” Eden and I immerse ourselves in the world of live music! 🎸🎤 From our very first concerts to the most unforgettable shows, we share stories filled with energy, excitement and a touch of nostalgia.In this episode, we discuss: • Our very first concert experiences and the emotions that came with them. • The best concerts we’ve ever attended and what made them stand out. • Disappointing concerts that didn’t quite hit the mark and why. • Our all-time favorite concerts and the memories that make the...
2024-05-291h 14
The Middle of CultureGodzilla, Mothra, King Gidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out AttackIn this week's episode of The Middle of Culture, Eden and I dive back into the legendary world of kaiju, focusing on the 2001 film "Godzilla, Mothra, King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack." The title might be a mouthful, but the movie offers even more monstrous action! With Godzilla, Mothra, and King Ghidorah headlining, and an additional surprise monster appearance, the film delivers a thrilling showdown of epic proportions.We'll explore the human narrative within this colossal creature feature and discuss Godzilla's transition into modern times. Plus, does this film coexist with the 1998 "Godzilla" starring Matthew Broderick? We'll...
2024-04-291h 01
The Middle of CultureOgres by Adrian TchaikovskyOn this week's episode of 'The Middle of Culture', Eden and I dive into the Hugo-nominated novella, 'Ogres' by Adrian Tchaikovsky. Written from a unique second-person perspective, this tale unveils a world dominated by ogres--powerful beings towering over humans. Eden and I explore the narrative, discuss the themes, and share our personal takeaways from this story. Tune in to discover how 'Ogres' left us, whether it thrilled or fell short of our expectations. Don't miss this deep dive into this blend of fantasy and social commentary.
2024-04-141h 04
The Middle of CultureDune Part 2We're back this week with more Dune! On The Middle of Culture, we discuss the recent release, Dune Part 2. Did it succeed on the promises of Part 1? Is Paul the Lisan Al Gaib? Is Stilgar the unheralded comedic genius of the planet Arrakis? Listen as Eden and I discuss these questions and much more. Beware, spoilers abound!
2024-03-191h 14
The Middle of CultureMothra versus Godzilla (1964)He's back! It's time for more Godzilla. And this time, the monster has to face a formidable foe to be sure. A moth. A giant moth. And then the moth's twin larvae. That's right, this week on The Middle of Culture, we dive into the 1964 classic (?) Mothra versus Godzilla. Eden assures us this is one of the better Godzilla movies, and Peter begins to have serious doubts about this Godzilla journey, if this is one of the best ones. Still, it was a fun time and the conversation was a joy. Join us as we discuss this entry in...
2024-03-051h 04
The Middle of CultureGundam Model BuildingWe're back baby! After both of us being under the weather, Eden and I are back to discuss our adventures with model kits. That is, of course, after we catch up on a full month's worth of media consumption that, given our recent illnesses, was quite a lot. So, join us as we catch up, and then dive into Gundam model building and our experiences with it.
2024-02-2055 min
The Middle of CultureProgramming AnnouncementWe will be back in 2 weeks when Eden is hale and hearty!
2024-02-0402 min
The Middle of CultureGodzilla 1954This week on The Middle of Culture, join Eden and me as we journey back to the birth of a cinematic legend with a nostalgic look at the 1954 original Godzilla. Unearth the origins of a colossal cultural icon that continues to reign supreme to this day. Dive into the depths of the silver screen as we explore how Godzilla, in all its monstrous glory, first roared to life. We revisit this timeless classic that laid the foundation for an epic franchise. Discover why the original Godzilla remains a cinematic masterpiece that withstands the test of time. Godzilla has become...
2024-01-2156 min
The Middle of Culture2023 Year of Music in ReviewHere's a more engaging and SEO-optimized version of your podcast description:"🎉🎶 Celebrate with us on the 50th episode and 2nd anniversary of 'The Middle of Culture'! This special edition is a nostalgic journey back to our roots, revisiting the magic of our first episode. Join Eden and me as we dive deep into the eclectic soundscapes of 2023's music scene. 🌟 Eden explores a diverse mix, featuring everything from the raw emotions of emo to the rhythmic beats of hip-hop, the soulful depths of jazz, and the futuristic vibes of vaporware. Meanwhile, I stay true to my passion, immersing...
2024-01-071h 21
The Middle of CultureGodzilla Minus OneJoin Eden, a lifelong Godzilla aficionado, Peter, an intrigued newcomer, and our special guest Gareth, as we plunge into the cinematic world of 'Godzilla Minus One'. This week's episode is a thrilling exploration of the most recent entry to one of the most iconic monster movies series ever made. Be prepared to be astonished by the moving nature of this film. We delve into the heart-stopping visuals, with Godzilla portrayed as a menacing, terrifying force of nature. But it's not just about the monster; this movie offers much more. We dissect the profound narrative, a poignant reflection on healing...
2023-12-241h 08
The Middle of CultureBullet Heaven GamesJoin Eden and me, lifelong gaming enthusiasts, in our next episode where we dive deep into the world of quick-play video games. We’re exploring the latest gaming trend that’s taking the industry by storm: Reverse Bullet Hell, or as we like to call them, ‘Bullet Heaven’ games. These games can offer an exciting experience without the hefty time commitment. We’ll be showcasing a few standout titles in this genre, dissecting what makes them so captivating and discussing their meteoric rise in popularity. Tune in to discover why these fast-paced games have become a sensation, and maybe find your...
2023-12-101h 04
The Middle of CultureJackie Chan’s “Police Story” (1985)This week we have a special guest, as John, Peter and Eden's father, joins us for a special Thanksgiving week episode of the Middle of Culture. As a palate cleanse from last week's terrible, horrible, no good, very bad movie, we look to another 1985 action film. This time, we dive into the Jackie Chan classic, "Police Story". Listen as we discuss what makes this movie an enduring classic, and an essential film for any action movie fans.
2023-11-2656 min
The Middle of Culture90s Metal WeirdnessThe 90s were a weird time for metal. The rise and fall of grunge, the rise of nu-metal, and the enshitification of some classic metal bands from the 80s all made for a weird time. And then there was Testament.
2023-10-2922 min
The Middle of CultureDaredevil Single IssuesThis week we dive into some Daredevil. Eden gives a great overview of "single issue" comics, and then we spend some time talking about these examples and our thoughts and experiences with them. For Peter, it was a very educational and interesting, and we hope it is for all of you as well!
2023-10-151h 12
The Middle of CultureVideo Game RPGsLast week Eden and Cassi talked about video games in general. This week, Peter is back, and he and Eden get a little more specific with a face off between video game RPGs. We picked 64 we thought were worth mentioning and then pit them against each other to pick our favorite from each pairing.
2023-10-011h 15
The Middle of CultureVidya Games!This week Eden and Cassi come to the rescue. I've had some stuff going on that really put me in a place I wasn't going to be great co-host, so they graciously gave me the week off and came in with some hot video game talk. Give them a listen and a 5 star review for saving the week!
2023-09-171h 08
The Middle of CultureTerminal BoredomAs the strike continues, we continue to avoid major Hollywood fare. This week Eden brings up a short story collection. Peter bounced off it hard, but Eden reminds us the importance of media that moves us to action, not just make us feel good.
2023-09-031h 00
The Middle of CultureEnd of Summer AnnouncementNo full episode this week, just a message about what is going to tantalize your ears.
2023-08-2003 min
The Middle of CultureBook Talk 2023Our initial plan this week was to watch an old, reportedly hilarious bad movie. But in an attempt at solidarity with the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, we jumped into some books this week. Join us as Eden and I discuss books that were foundational to us, that we love, and then throw shade at some books we think are bad.
2023-08-061h 18
The Middle of CultureHeaven Will Be MineVisual novels are flourishing in the modern era. They offer an opportunity to tell and experience a story that, traditionally, would have just been in the written format, but with technology, these stories can be enhanced both with visuals and sound design. And most importantly, can be made responsive the the choices of you, the reader. This week we discuss the visual novel "Heaven Will Be Mine" and our thoughts about both the story as well as the experience of "reading" a visual novel.
2023-07-231h 06
The Middle of CultureOur Musical LivesThis week Eden and I get a little into the woods. We've talked many times about music, but we wanted to discuss some of the how and why music means so much to us, and also why we continually seek out new music, rather than continue to relish the music we listened to in our early years. Yeah, it's a little navel gazey, but there you have it.
2023-07-091h 05
The Middle of CultureSpider-Man: Across the Spider-VerseSpider-Man returns, this time traveling across the Spider-Verse, as Eden and I discuss the sequel to Into the Spider-Verse. How does this film hold up to the absolute banger that was the first? Listen and find out. General impressions kick things off after we catch up on some new media, and then we go full spoiler mode and discuss the film. I'll just say this, this movie deserves your time, attention, and money.
2023-06-251h 04
The Middle of CultureSpider-Man: Into the Spider-VerseIt's Spider-Verse season! While we originally planned to discuss the recent release of Across the Spider-Verse this week, we made a last minute decision (mostly for scheduling reasons) to start with the first film, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. And you know what? That was the correct decision. It is a movie that is so incredibly well and lovingly made that it is worth watching again and then gushing over for the next 30+ minutes, and that is exactly what we do.
2023-06-111h 14
The Middle of CultureUncanny Magazine Issue 52It was finally Peter's turn to pick something, because he finally felt like he was in a position to do so. This week we took a look at the most recent issue of Uncanny Magazine, issue 52. Uncanny is an online magazine published every two months of speculative prose, poetry, and nonfiction works. Peter has been a subscriber for a bit now, but hasn't dived in and this seemed like a good time to finally get in and check it out.
2023-05-281h 17
The Middle of CultureGamera III: Revenge of IrisGamera returns! And with him comes the reckoning of some serious psychological trauma. In this conclusion to the trilogy, the movie takes a much darker and more psychological turn, and in the end, is it better for it? Listen along as we discuss our thoughts and opinions of this concluding movie.
2023-05-151h 00
The Middle of CultureMoC #34 - Gamera II: Attack of LegionGamera returns! This week we dive into the second installment of this relatively recent Gamera trilogy, and see the might turtle take on Legion, a wild upside down crab looking monster. If you enjoyed the first, this one is sure to please, as it really takes everything about the first and levels it up in significant ways.
2023-04-301h 06
The Middle of CultureMoC #33 - Gamera: Guardian of the UniverseIt should have been Peter's turn to come up with something. Should have. But like the solid that they are, Eden saved the day from Peter's incredibly overwhelming life to offer up a trio of kaiju films for us to watch, enjoy, and discuss. We kick this trio of episodes off with the 1995 film Gamera: Guardian of the Universe. If you aren't familiar with Gamera, listen and decide if you want to make yourself familiar. And as a first timer, Peter gives this film a hearty endorsement. Plus, it was free on Amazon Prime Video, so very little by...
2023-04-161h 13
The Middle of CultureMoC #32 - Close Encounters of the Third KindWhat is a close encounter? And how many kinds are there? Well, there must be at least three, because this week we discuss our experiences watching the 1977 Steven Spielberg classic movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind. We also discuss some recent media we have been enjoying. Join us as we take this trip with a cast of eclectic characters.
2023-04-021h 12
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of CulturE #31 - Influential AlbumsWe're no strangers to talking about music here on The Middle of Culture. And while, years ago, Eden and Peter shared many similar musical tastes, those tastes have diverged and matured. This week, we discuss essential albums that have shaped the way we listen to music, and the types of music we enjoy. Come along, as we discuss our most influential albums.
2023-03-191h 04
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #30 - The Witch from MercuryThis week Eden decided to challenge Peter with some anime. Anyone who has listened has heard Peter lament about his inability to really get into anime, but there has to be a first time for everything, right? Well, turns out, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury just might be that. Listen in as we discuss the prologue and first three episodes from this most recent Gundam series.
2023-03-0551 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #29 - X-Men: Dark PhoenixOur winter of X-content is over. This journey has lasted many months, and culminates in X-Men: Dark Phoenix. Look folks, this movie has the lowest Rotten Tomatoes score of any X-Men movie, by a significant margin. It is worse than Black Adam, and boy howdy, that movie is an abomination. This is a right stinker, and we end on the lowest of lows. Or do we? Listen as Eden and I discuss our surprising reactions to this movie, and then rank all 10 of the X movies we have watched together. I promise, we are sane and our decisions make...
2023-02-1952 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #28 - The Spirit of the BeehiveThis week we take a journey. After a brief discussion of the announced DCEU projects (can you say completely underwhelming?) we travel to 1940 by way of the 1973 Spanish film (that's Film with a capital F) The Spirit of the Beehive. It is one of Eden's very favorite films, and boy howdy, did Peter have a challenging time getting into it. But it makes for a very interesting discussion on the Spain at the time, and cinema in general. Plus, it can't be any more difficult to watch than our upcoming movie. It just can't.
2023-02-0558 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #27 - LoganOur winter of X-content is coming quickly to a close with the penultimate movie, 2017s Logan. Both Eden and I were a bit nervous to watch this one again. We have fond memories of it being very good, but that was 5+ years ago. Does it hold up to further scrutiny? Or should we have lived with our fond memories and left it at that? Take a listen with us and you'll find out.
2023-01-2258 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #26 - Tabletop Role Playing GamesThis week both Eden and I felt a bit low energy, so we went with a topic that didn't require too much energy or effort to prepare for. And, perhaps a little surprisingly, at least to me, it turned into a really fun and interesting discussion about tabletop role playing games. Join us as we discuss our journey with TTRPGs as well as our thoughts about some recent announcements about the, by far, biggest TTRPG out there.
2023-01-091h 14
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #25 - X-Men: ApocalypseFolks, this has been a real roller coaster. There have been highs, and there have been lows, but this week, I am pretty sure we have hit the very lowest low so far. Join Eden and I as we discuss X-Men: Apocalypse. Heads up, this movie is really, really bad. But the conversation was pretty dang good.
2022-12-271h 12
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #24 - Year End Wrap UpIt should have been another entry in our Winter of Excontent. But alas, life just kicked me hard. In the balls. So, we are just sort of free wheeling it this week, with an extemporaneous discussion of some of our favorite media of the year, including music, books, movies and games.
2022-12-111h 06
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #23 - NaNoWriMo 2022This episode was a little different. Generally, we talk about the media and entertainment we have been consuming. However, today we wanted to talk about our efforts at creating media of our own. November is known as National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), and has been for about the last 25 years. Independently, turns out Eden and I both decided to participate in NaNoWriMo this year. We thought it would be worthwhile to spend some time talking about our experiences in trying to write a 50,000 word short novel in one month's time.
2022-11-271h 10
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #22 - X-Men Days of Future PastThe Summer of X has become the Fall of X, or even the Winter, depending on where you live. This week we talk a bit about games, music and then dive into the latest X movie, Days of Future Past. We discuss it's merits and Peter discusses that, despite those merits, he really, really doesn't like this movie. Or the holiday season. He has stress and needs to manage it better.
2022-11-141h 14
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #21 - MechathonAs children of the 80s, the entertainment of that time has always been highly influential for both myself and Eden. One of those influences is that of giant robots. Yes, that's right folks, this week we are ranking, reviewing, and discussing a handful of giant robots over the years. But not just any robots, these are all Mecha, robots controlled by humans. Join us as we walk down memory lane and rank these robots.
2022-10-301h 15
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #20 - The WolverineThe Summer of X is now the Fall of X officially as temperatures cool off and we follow The Wolverine to Japan. Eden and I discuss what we are in to these days, and then dive into James Mangold's first movie centered on good old Logan.
2022-10-161h 02
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #19 - Elf Quest and the Art of Reading ComicsOver the course of our lives, we all have opportunities to develop certain skills. Eden and I have both spent many years honing some of those skills. Yet they have, in some cases, been in very different areas, as I so painfully discovered in trying to read over 700 pages of Elf Quest comics in a few weeks. Join us as we discuss the first half of volume 1 of the classic Elf Quest comic, and reflect on how reading comics is very different than much of the other reading we do in a day.
2022-10-021h 04
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #18 - X-Men First ClassEveryone is a fan of something. Or often many things. But do we define ourselves and our personalities by our fandoms? If so, perhaps we should find meaning in something more real. Because that seems to be when fandom becomes toxic. This week we discuss toxic fandom, in the setting of the recent backlash of The Rings of Power. And then, we just may be grateful that Eden and I don't define ourselves by our X-Men fandom, because First Class left us both wanting.
2022-09-181h 12
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #17 - Simulator GamesThese days, you can find a video game for almost anything. A longstanding, but increasingly broad category of games are those that fall under the "simulation" genre. There are classics, like SimCity and The Sims, that almost everyone knows about. But what about more niche sim games? Euro Truck Simulator, Farming Simulator, Lawn Mower Simulator, and the game that kicked off today's topic, Power Wash Simulator, are all entries in an increasingly diverse genre. We take a look at sim games and our thoughts after spending some time washing the heck out of some things together in co-op.
2022-09-041h 02
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #16 - X-Men Origins: WolverineThis week the Summer of X returns with X-Men Origins: Wolverine. We remembered it wasn't a great movie. Critically it did worse than the previous installments in the series. So, we knew what we were getting into, didn't we? No. No, we did not. Nothing prepared us for the experience that was revisiting this movie. I won't say more though. Just listen and hopefully you will find yourself laughing along as we could barely contain our own laughter. We also briefly talk about our thoughts on episode 1 of She Hulk: Attorney At Law, and we reflect on the sad and...
2022-08-211h 09
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #15 - Post-Apocalyptic FictionWar. War never changes. And neither does the world after an apocalypse! Or at least that is how it appears in much of post-apocalyptic fiction. That's on the docket this week, after a (what was going to be) brief recap of some recent Marvel Studios topics. First, we talk about *Thor Love and Thunder*, some final thoughts on the recently wrapped up *Ms. Marvel*, and finish out our Marvel talk with reactions to the *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever* trailer. Eden then takes us through the post-apocalypse, framed through the *Fallout* games, as we discuss fiction after the end of...
2022-08-071h 14
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture - Summer UpdateLife sometimes gets in the way. And that happened to us this week. Between travel and being away from home we weren't able to put together and episode that would meet the quality we expect from ourselves. But we will be back in 2 weeks with a great topic courtesy of Eden!
2022-07-2500 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #14 - X-Men: the Last StandA wet fart. I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed. Those two comments pretty much sum up our thoughts about X-Men: The Last Stand. Bad, but not bad enough to be fun, this was a movie that just fell flat in so many ways. It messed with the mythos of the X-Men in incomprehensible and stupid ways, it treated many of its characters very poorly, and is just a dud all the way around. But, it was a lot of fun to talk about. Hopefully, it is fun to listen to us talk about it as well.
2022-07-111h 03
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #13 - A Bride’s StoryEden loves it, Peter had never even heard of it. Given Eden's love of the book, the siblings decided to read (or re-read) A Bride's Story. Come with us as we discuss this modern work of art and dive into our thoughts and emotions that this book took us on. But here is the most important part: this is a truly wonderful piece of art that everyone deserves to experience.
2022-06-2759 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #12 - X2 X-Men UnitedSome have suggested X2 is the best of the X-Men movies. Braeden and Peter decide to discuss that and put that to the test, watching this hot on the heels of revisiting the original X-Men. And we both agree, higher highs, but trying to cram too much into its run time. Stop by as we discuss this next installment of The Summer of X.
2022-06-131h 02
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #11 - Shall Machines Divide the EarthFar flung humanity, a “winner-takes-all” battle with humans and AI teamed up, yet orchestrated by other AI, and lesbian sex all combine to make for a very interesting novella from Thai author Benjanun Sriduangkaew. Braeden is a fan, Peter was unfamiliar until now, and together they discuss this third installment in The Machine Mandate series.
2022-05-2955 min
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #10 - X-MEN (2000)Comic book movies have come a long way in the last few decades. Before the turn of the century, they were often not very good, nor taken seriously. There were exceptions, of course. But X-Men is often included in that group of comic book movies that made great strides to legitimize the genre. Does it hold up though? We decide to jump back in time and see if it does.
2022-05-151h 20
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #9 - MCU BracketologyThere are over 30 entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We bracket them, stack them, let them duke it out, and end up with a singular victor. And the winner just might surprise you. I know it did me.
2022-05-011h 42
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #8 - First Quarter 2022 MusicA discussion of the music so far in 2022 that has impressed, moved and impacted us.
2022-04-181h 16
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #7 - Ghost in the ShellBraeden loves it, Peter has never seen it. We discuss the classic 1995 film "Ghost in the Shell".
2022-04-031h 14
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #6 - FPS DraftWe run through a list of FPS games and draft our 5 favorite each.
2022-03-191h 37
The Middle of CultureThe Middle Of Culture #5 - Rush Bracket ManiaWe pit all Rush live and studio albums against each other to find the final victor.
2022-03-051h 30
The Middle of CultureThe Middle of Culture #4 - The Emperor’s SoulWe discuss the Hugo award winning novella The Emperor's Soul, by Brandon Sanderson.
2022-02-191h 08
The Middle of CultureThe Middle Of Culture #3 - The IncalA conversation on comics, The Incal in particular. We discuss the characters, the art, and even some of the tradition of French comics.
2022-02-051h 17
The Middle of CultureThe Middle Of Culture #2: Dune (2021)Thoughts about the 2021 version of sci-fi classic Dune
2022-01-221h 12
The Middle of CultureThe Middle Of Culture #1: 2021 Favorite MusicA discussion of our favorite music from this past year.
2022-01-091h 24
2022-01-0903 min