Shows
The Contrarians183 - Pt. 2 - Invasion USA (RT)Okay then, back to the present. Can we still enjoy the wall-to-wall senseless violence of an 80s action-fest in 2023 America? Is it possible there’s a valid reason why movies like INVASION USA aren’t wildly popular anymore? Has the window for a Chuck Norris renaissance closed? It’s a Real Talk segment that goes in many directions - and yes, one of those directions is Alex waxing poetic about practical effects.TIMELINE00:00:59 Now on Patreon00:11:16 Real Talk00:52:13 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CO...
2023-07-1257 min
The Contrarians183 - Pt. 1 - Invasion USA (CC)The 80s were truly the Golden Age of American Cinema - and America in general, sure. You could solve almost any problem by shooting at it, and you had movie stars like Chuck Norris, who could believably stop a Russian invasion all by themselves. Unfortunately, INVASION USA was met with derision from snobby critics everywhere, so it’s time for The Contrarians to celebrate it. Listen to Alex & Julio as they embrace their inner badasses and turn their brains off in the best possible way!TIMELINE00:01:16 Invasion USA00:17:03 Contrarians Corner- Wa...
2023-07-1254 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Color Out of Space (RT)Okay, so COLOR OUT OF SPACE looks as spectacular as the best Windows screensaver, and then some. But is there anything behind it? That’s the main question driving this Real Talk segment, and we throw a few things around: the true value of an unhinged Cage performance, how much would being familiar with the Lovecraft story enrich the viewing experience, and would we change anything about the way this material was approached? It’s all here, and it’s real!TIMELINE00:00:43 Now on Patreon00:09:32 Real Talk00:52:35 The Future & Perennial Plugs...
2023-07-0457 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Color Out of Space (CC)Hey, look, it’s a modern Nicolas Cage movie! That means it’ll be a collection of memes trying to encapsulate a performance that’s pitched at 11 regardless of the context surrounding it. But COLOR OUT OF SPACE is based on a Lovecraft story and it’s helmed by a cult director, so of course critics ate it up! Listen to Alex & Julio as they squint their way through this psychedelic mess and call out every bit of nonsense in this acclaimed horror-fantasy adaptation that wasn’t above stunt-casting Tommy Chong.TIMELINE00:01:16 Color Out of Space
2023-07-0354 min
The Contrarians182 - Pt. 2 - Dolemite Is My Name (RT)Oh hey, Eddie Murphy is back again. Not just on our show (this is our fourth Murphy vehicle) but on the mainstream. Will he stick around? Alex & Julio speculate about that while discussing everything that works in DOLEMITE IS MY NAME… and maybe a few things that don’t. And no, nobody breaks into an actual Dolemite impression - although the challenge was put forward.TIMELINE00:00:50 Now on Patreon00:07:23 Real Talk00:52:40 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Dele...
2023-06-2056 min
The Contrarians182 - Pt. 1 - Dolemite Is My Name (CC)Have you ever wondered how hard it is to make a movie? According to the celebrated DOLEMITE IS MY NAME, it’s a breeze! All you need is a plucky crew and a good amount of can-do attitude. Listen to Alex & Julio pick apart the latest Eddie Murphy comeback and try to figure out if Wesley Snipes’ performance is the best part of the movie or the worst. Also: why would you cast Titus as the quiet member of any ensemble???TIMELINE00:01:16 Dolemite Is My Name00:13:25 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how...
2023-06-2057 min
The Contrarians181 - Pt. 2 - Barb Wire (RT)There’s a very good chance we wouldn’t have had this long a conversation if we were covering the actual Casablanca. Instead, we’re covering a riff on Casablanca that landed terribly with most critics. Was it a reaction to its star, Pamela Anderson? A reaction to its silly, hypersexual tone? A reaction to how it predicted things going to hell in 2017? More importantly though, this is where you find out if we really liked the movie. It’s Real Talk!TIMELINE00:00:34 Now on Patreon00:10:05 Real Talk01:00:51 The Future & Perennial Plugs
2023-06-121h 04
The Contrarians181 - Pt. 1 - Barb Wire (CC)Wow. Does America hate sexy badass women or what? Pamela Anderson could’ve taken over the world if we’d only given BARB WIRE an actual chance, but instead critics decided she already had enough good fortune in her life and planted a 28% Tomatometer score on the film. Listen to Alex & Julio as they try to convey the awesomeness of Barb, her wacky sidekicks, and her even wackier enemies — none more sinister than American puritanism. And oh yeah, we’ll mention Casablanca, of course.TIMELINE00:01:16 Barb Wire00:17:25 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how...
2023-06-1259 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Paris, Texas (RT)Palme d’Or winner. Criterion selection. 94% Tomatometer score. Will any of this be reflected in Alex & Julio’s true opinions about PARIS, TEXAS? This Real Talk segment sees The Contrarians discussing the experience of watching movies that come with an abundance of hype as baggage, along with their own personal histories with Wim Wenders ode to the American South! And how do we really feel about the ending?TIMELINE00:01:04 Now on Patreon00:08:17 Real Talk00:54:47 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our...
2023-05-3159 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Paris, Texas (CC)Welcome to the most boring road trip in the history of film! Acclaimed German filmmaker Wim Wenders decided to show the world the nightmare that it is traveling across Texas with a small child, and he succeeded - to the tune of a 94% Tomatometer score. Listen to Alex & Julio take the beloved PARIS, TEXAS down a few pegs while also acknowledging they, too, would be obsessed with finding Natassja Kinski if they had lost her.TIMELINE00:01:16 Paris, Texas00:16:35 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about PARIS, TEXAS? Check...
2023-05-3155 min
The Contrarians180 - Pt. 2 - La Jetée & 12 Monkeys (RT)Ok, let’s get real. Is 12 Monkeys really too convoluted for its own good? Does La Jetée still work all these decades later, when we are used to more bombastic sci-fi moviemaking? What possessed patron Stu Willis to task us to tackle both of these puzzle-box films? We talk Oscars, performances, and what connects Julio to Terry Gilliam’s most mainstream movie… all in this Real Talk segment!TIMELINE00:00:59 Now on Patreon00:09:20 Real Talk01:02:20 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our...
2023-05-271h 05
The Contrarians180 - Pt. 1 - La Jetée & 12 Monkeys (CC)Critics like to be confused, apparently. The experimental mind-bender LA JETÉE has a Criterion release, even though most people can’t make sense of it. And then, when Terry Gilliam decided to turn it into a Hollywood blockbuster starring Bruce Willis, he somehow made the plot even more impenetrable. Listen to Alex & Julio as they try to figure out the rules of the 12 MONKEYS universe, the reasons behind Brad Pitt’s overacting, and why Madeleine Stowe is attracted to a man who hasn’t showered in decades.TIMELINE00:01:16 La Jetée & 12 Monkeys00:17:52 Contrari...
2023-05-261h 02
The Contrarians179 - Pt. 2 - Jurassic World Dominion (RT)Come on. If Jurassic Park was part of your childhood or teenage years in any capacity, you probably have strong feelings about this final (?) entry in the series. But, are we over-reacting, one way or another? Are critics and audiences asking for too much from a franchise that is basically about giant reptiles chasing people throughout different locations? It’s all about blockbuster filmmaking in the 2020s in this Real Talk segment!Also: join us at the Livestream for the Cure this Saturday, 5/20, at 4pm EST! Visit livestreamforthecure.com for all the details!TIMELINE
2023-05-181h 10
The Contrarians179 - Pt. 1 - Jurassic World Dominion (CC)Taking the best lessons from The MCU, the most popular dinosaur franchise in the universe took its time building to its very own Jurassic Avengers. Everyone comes back for this one! So what happened? Why all the hate for JURASSIC WORLD DOMINION? At 29% on the Tomatometer, you’d think people didn’t want to see Doctor Alan Grant finally find love while also teaming up with Starlord. Listen to Alex & Julio as they bask in the afterglow of this super-sized nostalgia trip!TIMELINE00:01:16 Jurassic World Dominion00:21:07 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how...
2023-05-1858 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - The Long Goodbye (RT)Is it time to add another movie to the very limited list of noirs that The Contrarians like? Or do we simply enjoy making fun of whatever it is Altman and Gould are doing in this collaboration? Alex & Julio had a blast talking about Marlowe’s 70s adventures with Dale Bridges and exploring how his own book relates to the film… but does that mean THE LONG GOODBYE gets as high a score as THE MEAN REDS? Listen to this Real Talk segment to find out!TIMELINE00:00:54 Now on Patreon00:11:55 Real Talk0...
2023-05-011h 09
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - The Long Goodbye (CC)Who do you get to play hard-knocks noir gumshoe Phillip Marlowe when Humphrey Bogart is not available? The future Jack Geller, of course! Dale Bridges, author of the hilarious THE MEAN REDS and film noir enthusiast, joins Alex & Julio to try to make sense of Robert Altman’s weird, lackadaisical detective story, THE LONG GOODBYE. Come on, Elliott Gould, really??? And wait until you hear about the movie’s soundtrack…TIMELINE00:01:16 The Mean Reds00:16:41 The Long Goodbye00:24:17 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about THE LONG GOODBY...
2023-05-011h 10
The Contrarians178 - Pt. 2 - Riders of Justice (RT)Anyone who’s been paying attention for a while knows how Alex really feels about RIDERS OF JUSTICE. Julio’s thoughts about the movie might be a little more obscure - especially after a rewatch. But quality aside, the real question is: is this a Christmas movie? Plus, what is it saying about conflict resolution? It’s a merry Real Talk segment as we come up with answers!TIMELINE00:00:39 Now on Patreon00:11:13 Real Talk00:53:14 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Pa...
2023-04-2258 min
The Contrarians178 - Pt. 1 - Riders of Justice (CC)This is the world now: we praise a movie that teaches intellectuals the way to effectively solve conflict is with violence. Who cares about morals when we get to see Mads Mikkelsen mow down bad guys with the help of the Danish Big Bang Theory cast? Listen to Alex & Julio pick apart a Tomatometer favorite, as they tackle RIDERS OF JUSTICE!TIMELINE00:01:16 Riders of Justice00:17:01 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about RIDERS OF JUSTICE? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on your feed RIGHT NOW!
2023-04-221h 03
The Contrarians177 - Pt. 2 - Dark Crimes (RT)Trying to make sense of Jim Carrey’s filmography is an exercise in futility, especially when confronted with a movie as puzzling as DARK CRIMES. What made the beloved comedian decide to star in this grimy, unpleasant, sexually violent exploration of the worst Poland has to offer? Has he even watched the finished product? We discuss all this and more in a very sobering edition of Real Talk.TIMELINE00:00:41 Now on Patreon00:10:09 Real Talk00:53:33 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on ou...
2023-04-1258 min
The Contrarians177 - Pt. 1 - Dark Crimes (CC)It’s unlikely anybody expected Jim Carrey to whip out an unofficial new sequel to Ace Ventura, but that’s the easiest way to rationalize the existence of DARK CRIMES. The grim, brutal Polish thriller was met with universal disdain on the Tomatometer, and now it’s The Contrarians’ duty to make sure people reappraise this hidden gem in Carrey’s filmography - courtesy of patron Jason Nerdrovert. Listen to Alex & Julio as they rave about a film that makes the Polish Tourism Department blush!TIMELINE00:01:16 Dark Crimes00:17:07 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know...
2023-04-1257 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Waitress (RT)Lots of twists and turns in this Real Talk segment, as not all final scores for WAITRESS are what we expected. We also find out why Rachel picked this particular movie, what the musical version of Earl is like, if anyone here was rooting for Nathan Fillion to save the day, and who was all-in when Keri Russell had her climactic turn. It’s a Real Talk that makes Contrarians History! (You’ll find out why)TIMELINE00:00:22 Now on Patreon00:10:21 Real Talk01:08:53 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more...
2023-04-021h 12
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Waitress (CC)We’ve joked about Keri Russell’s limited role in Mission Impossible III long enough that it’s only fair to bring one of her starring roles to the show. Critics went ga-ga for WAITRESS, an indie darling that romanticizes small-town infidelity and fetishizes pie-making, so that makes it the perfect target for The Contrarians’ gimmick! Listen to Alex, Julio, and special guest Rachel from YUM YUM PODCAST, as they wonder if there’s anything in this film that can make up for Jeremy Sisto’s awfulness and Nathan Fillion’s lax morals.TIMELINE00:01:16 Waitress00:21:45...
2023-04-021h 07
The Contrarians176 - Pt. 2 - About a Boy (RT)Does Alex really hate Hugh Grant’s romcom persona or was he just putting on a show in Contrarians Corner? Can Julio focus on anything besides Rachel Weisz’ presence in this movie? And what is ABOUT A BOY really saying about… well, anything? Those are just a few of the things we ponder in the Real Talk segment, which also includes patron Jamie’s reasons behind assigning us this bit of early 2000s nostalgia!TIMELINE00:00:39 Now on Patreon00:08:25 Real Talk00:53:53 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness...
2023-03-2257 min
The Contrarians176 - Pt. 1 - About a Boy (CC)We couldn’t escape the specter of a bonafide Hugh Grant comedy anymore. The guys behind AMERICAN PIE felt they had what it took to adapt a Nick Hornby book, and the Tomatometer rewarded them with a mind-blowing 93% score. That’s what we call “Prime Contrarians Material” around these parts, and patron Jamie Russell seems to agree! Listen to Alex & Julio as they dissect the movie that can be directly blamed for Nicholas Hoult’s Hollywood journey and try to wrap their minds around ABOUT A BOY’s anti-bachelor stance!TIMELINE00:01:16 About a Boy00:15:37...
2023-03-2256 min
The Contrarians175 - Pt. 2 - The Mutations (RT)The potential problem with THE MUTATIONS is how heavily it borrows from FREAKS, to the point where comparisons are inevitable. But does it really play much differently to someone who, like Julio, isn’t that well-versed with 70s horror? And does Alex’s passion for the genre get in the way of him enjoying something as derivative as this Donald Pleasence vehicle, or does it enhance the experience? It’s all answered in this Real Talk segment!TIMELINE00:00:53 Now on Patreon00:09:01 Real Talk00:56:56 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in mor...
2023-03-121h 01
The Contrarians175 - Pt. 1 - The Mutations (CC)Donald Pleasence as a mad scientist. Isn’t that more than enough to get you fired up to watch a movie, even before you find out Doctor Loomis is trying to create an army of Plant People? And yet, somehow, THE MUTATIONS has drifted into obscurity, at best being looked down upon as a cheap FREAKS rip-off. Listen to Alex & Julio as they honor the first demand of the Patron Invasion and sing the praises of this underseen 70s acid trip!TIMELINE00:01:16 The Mutations00:18:29 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we re...
2023-03-1259 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Death Sentence (RT)Can you make a revenge thriller that avoids asking questions about the morality of its premise? More to the point, can you watch a revenge thriller without asking yourself those questions? That discussion cuts to the core of why one of The Contrarians enjoys DEATH SENTENCE more than the other, but it’s not the only thing occupying Alex & Julio’s minds in this Real Talk segment. There’s talk about the logistics of Kevin Bacon’s vigilantism and, of course, an appropriate comparison to another head-shaving scene in a different movie!TIMELINE00:00:08 Now on Patreon
2023-03-011h 05
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Death Sentence (CC)Back in 2007, James Wan decided it was time for Kevin Bacon to be a badass again. Thus Bacon was put at the center of a brutal revenge thriller, got his head shaved, and set off to remind the world he’s more than just the guy from Tremors and Footloose. Sadly, audiences and critics didn’t take kindly to this. Listen to Alex & Julio as they discuss DEATH SENTENCE and all the awesomeness within it! How can this Wan B-side score a meager 20% on the Tomatometer???TIMELINE00:01:16 Death Sentence00:16:31 Contrarians Corner- Wa...
2023-03-011h 04
The Contrarians174 - Pt. 2 - Goodfellas (RT)Is it possible for two Scorsese fans to say anything fresh about GOODFELLAS? Is it even necessary? Alex & Julio face an unusual challenge in their Contrarians journey, but hopefully one that makes for a fun Real Talk segment. And when they’re done praising everything about Marty’s masterpiece, will Alex be forced to re-evaluate his opinions about CASINO?TIMELINE00:00:45 Now on Patreon00:08:58 Real Talk00:57:44 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free...
2023-02-211h 02
The Contrarians174 - Pt. 1 - Goodfellas (CC)Hey look, it’s the movie that Martin Scorsese has been remaking through most of his career - perhaps because it wasn’t that great to begin with. Try telling that to all those critics which bestowed an impressive 96% Tomatometer score on GOODFELLAS. Guys, it wasn’t even good enough to beat Dances with Wolves at the Oscars. Listen to Alex & Julio drop some hard truths about Marty’s so-called masterpiece as we close the Mount Rushmore arc!TIMELINE00:01:16 Goodfellas00:12:10 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about GOODFELLAS? Check ou...
2023-02-211h 03
The Contrarians173 - Pt. 2 - Labor Day (RT)Okay, seriously, Jason Reitman… what happened? You may like LABOR DAY, you may hate LABOR DAY, but either way you can’t argue that it’s a puzzling career move from the man who brought us Thank You For Smoking, Juno, Up in the Air, and Young Adult. In this Real Talk segment, listen to Alex & Julio try to figure out how Kate Winslet and Josh Brolin ended up in a trashy romance novel and even dare to brainstorm an alternate, more satisfying, version of the story.TIMELINE00:00:42 Now on Patreon00:08:43 Real Talk...
2023-02-1456 min
The Contrarians173 - Pt. 1 - Labor Day (CC)Kate Winslet specializes in playing women who fall in love truly, madly, deeply, and quickly. That can sometimes turn off critics and audiences, as was the case with the underrated LABOR DAY a.k.a. Jason Reitman’s Most Honest Movie. Listen to Alex & Julio as they allow unfiltered romance to pierce their defenses and discuss Josh Brolin’s raw sex appeal, the aphrodisiac qualities of peach pie, and other things you may learn about in prison.TIMELINE00:01:16 Labor Day00:15:17 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about LABOR DAY...
2023-02-1459 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Pretty Persuasion (RT)Well, that was quite a minefield to navigate in Contrarians Corner. But now that we are in Real Talk, are we really in sync with Marcos Siega’s vision in PRETTY PERSUASION? We can all agree that Evan Rachel Wood and the rest of the cast are great but… in the service of what, exactly? And yes, there’s more James Woods talk. TIMELINE00:00:38 Now on Patreon00:09:57 Real Talk00:56:03 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extend...
2023-02-0359 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Pretty Persuasion (CC)The best type of filmmaking is that which pushes boundaries. Filmmaking that tells the stories most people are afraid to tell. And, unfortunately, critics and audiences often punish these daring projects - like when they stamped a 33% rotten Tomatometer score on PRETTY PERSUASION. Listen to Alex & Julio as they try to rescue what might be the best Evan Rachel Wood vehicle from obscurity. Also: did 2005 try to warn us about James Woods?TIMELINE00:01:16 Pretty Persuasion00:11:01 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about PRETTY PERSUASION? Check out the Real...
2023-02-0359 min
The Contrarians172 - Pt. 2 - Being John Malkovich (RT)It’s fascinating that we can look back at BEING JOHN MALKOVICH and - love it or hate it - we can probably claim it’s Charlie Kaufman’s most accessible movie. But does that make it good? Alex & Julio discuss what works and what doesn’t in Kaufman and Spike Jonze’s first film, while recounting their own past experiences with this 1999 acid trip. And is it Cameron Diaz’s best performance?TIMELINE00:00:50 Now on Patreon00:11:25 Real Talk01:01:25 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CON...
2023-01-231h 05
The Contrarians172 - Pt. 1 - Being John Malkovich (CC)“Malkovich Malkovich Malkovich? Malkovich Malkovich. MALKOVICH!” - Apparently, that was enough to get you a Best Original Screenplay nomination at the 2000 Oscars. But how does BEING JOHN MALKOVICH look more than two decades later, when we are overly familiar with Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman’s quirks and mannerisms? Listen to Alex & Julio as they push down on every bit of nonsense in the film, from monkey flashbacks to inexplicable mythology.TIMELINE00:01:16 Being John Malkovich00:18:50 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about BEING JOHN MALKOVICH? Check out the Real T...
2023-01-231h 09
The Contrarians171 - Pt. 2 - The Bone Collector (RT)Legend says even director Phillip Noyce isn’t happy with how The Bone Collector turned out. But do we agree with that assessment now that we are in the Real Talk part of the show? Even if you removed Denzel and Angelina from the movie, isn’t this quite an entertaining cast to watch? Or is David Fincher’s shadow too oppressive to allow this type of thriller to blossom? Plus: a nostalgic look back at 90s posters!TIMELINE00:01:00 Now on Patreon00:13:08 Real Talk00:50:07 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Intere...
2023-01-1154 min
The Contrarians171 - Pt. 1 - The Bone Collector (CC)In a way, David Fincher’s SE7EN ruined it for R-rated thrillers going forward. How else can we explain the negative reception to this early Denzel Washington / Angelina Jolie team-up, but by assuming people felt it wasn’t nihilistic enough? Listen to Alex & Julio as they come to the defense of THE BONE COLLECTOR, a movie that’s not afraid of injecting a little romance in the middle of a horrifying serial killer investigation. Also: Luis Guzman and Ed O’Neill jump in to supply comic relief charisma. What a delight.TIMELINE00:01:16 The Bone Collecto...
2023-01-1159 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Kin (RT)Okay, so what was that ending, why is Carrie Coon only in five minutes of the movie, and more importantly, does KIN actually get The Contrarians’ seal of approval? Do we care enough to track down the short that inspired this feature? Are we excited to see what The Baker Bros come up with next? It’s our last Real Talk of 2022 and it’s a good time!TIMELINE00:00:45 Now on Patreon00:10:36 Real Talk00:59:50 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Pa...
2023-01-041h 04
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Kin (CC)This is the world we live in now: where a sci-fi movie starring Zoë Kravitz and the older brother from Sing Street (A.K.A. the bad boyfriend from Midsommar) can’t make enough of a splash with critics. Not even the venerable presence of Dennis Quaid could save KIN from getting a rotten Tomatometer score, which is why Alex & Julio are going to defend it. Also, it’s a Patron Demand, so it’s not like The Contrarians have a choice.TIMELINE00:01:16 Kin00:15:20 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really...
2023-01-041h 04
The Contrarians170 - Pt. 2 - Nothing But Trouble (RT)Whether you love it or hate it, NOTHING BUT TROUBLE is sure to spark discussion. How exactly did something like this movie manage to make its way to theatrical screenings across the nation? Is this the reason Dan Aykroyd didn’t direct again? Did any of us actually like it? There may be a lot less disagreement among Alex, Julio, Ryan and Bartek than you’d expect!TIMELINE00:00:48 Now on Patreon00:07:23 Real Talk01:05:46 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patr...
2022-12-221h 09
The Contrarians170 - Pt. 1 - Nothing But Trouble (CC)Society doesn’t do enough to celebrate unique voices. In fact, more often than not, they slap a 13% Tomatometer score on them. Listen to Alex & Julio as they welcome Ryan & Bartek (from Spit & Polish) back to the show so they can all defend Dan Aykroyd’s NOTHING BUT TROUBLE - a misunderstood comedy that deserves a second chance. Where else can you find Chevy Chase and Demi Moore entangled in a romance? Or John Candy playing a straight-laced cop AND his silent sister? And wait until you see Aykroyd himself…TIMELINE00:01:16 Nothing But Trouble00...
2022-12-221h 15
The Contrarians169 - Pt. 2 - Star Trek 2009 (RT)What makes a Star Trek movie a true Trek movie, if such a thing even exists? Did J.J. Abrams sell out the franchise, or did he simply provide a modern entry point for younger audiences? This Real Talk segment features three different levels of Trek fans (you already know that if you listened to Contrarians Corner), and we try to truly figure out what works and what doesn’t when it comes to the Kelvin crew.TIMELINE00:00:57 Now on Patreon00:10:49 Real Talk00:59:10 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in...
2022-12-121h 04
The Contrarians169 - Pt. 1 - Star Trek 2009 (CC)Fire everything!!! That was J.J. Abrams’ strategy when reimagining Star Trek for the Michael Bay generation and it worked. With a 94% Tomatometer score, the 2009 STAR TREK was a hit with critics and audiences alike… but at what cost? The Pint’s John Amenta joins Alex & Julio as they discuss what Trek lost when it became just another action movie where hot people shoot at each other.TIMELINE00:01:16 Star Trek00:19:11 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about STAR TREK (2009)? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on your feed R...
2022-12-121h 17
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - IO (RT)Okay, so IO may not be top-shelf sci-fi entertainment. But does that mean there is no value to it? Once we get to Real Talk, there’s worthy conversation to be had about the audience for this type of movie and the role Netflix plays in, perhaps, shaping the next generation of filmmakers. Also, Alex gets another chance to rail against the fading away of physical media, and that’s always fun.TIMELINE00:00:30 Now on Patreon00:07:57 Real Talk00:48:37 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested in more Contrarians goodness? Join THE...
2022-12-0254 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - IO (CC)Yet another underappreciated gem from the Netflix Sci-Fi Originals factory, IO was met with a massive shrug from critics. Have we really lost the ability to enjoy anything that isn’t part of a billion-dollar franchise? What happened to giving a shot to the little medium-budget movies that could? Why wasn’t anyone more psyched about The Falcon teaming up with Jill Garvey from The Leftovers? Listen to Alex & Julio as they extol the virtues of this Netflix hidden treasure!TIMELINE00:01:16 IO00:14:05 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel abou...
2022-12-0244 min
The Contrarians168 - Pt. 2 - Grease 2 (RT)You can’t fully discuss GREASE 2 without going back to the first Grease - a movie tackled in this podcast long ago. It’s clear Em adores the sequel, but how does she feel about the original? And how does the OG Grease experience affect The Contrarians? Can the Verbal Diorama host’s enthusiasm for Michelle Pfeiffer’s musical debut rub off on Alex & Julio, or is it all a lost cause? The answers lie within this Real Talk segment!TIMELINE00:00:48 Now on Patreon00:07:47 Real Talk01:09:30 Verbal Diorama & Perennial Plugs- Int...
2022-11-231h 16
The Contrarians168 - Pt. 1 - Grease 2 (CC)So, what, you’re not allowed to make a GREASE movie unless you have John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John as the leads? GREASE 2 superfan Em (from the delightful Verbal Diorama podcast) joins Alex & Julio to extol the virtues of a sequel that’s waaaay better than its predecessor! If you’re looking for a show that celebrates Michelle Pfeiffer, Adrian Zmed and… well, sure, okay, Maxwell Caulfield too… you can stop because you’ve found it!TIMELINE00:01:16 Grease 200:14:05 Contrarians Corner- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon...
2022-11-231h 04
The Contrarians167 - Pt. 2 - Warrior (RT)Can you follow every trope and still achieve transcendence? Or put in simpler terms: is WARRIOR better than ROCKY? We 100% go there, and many other MMA-related places, in this Real Talk installment - including a look at Tom Hardy’s unexpected real-life MMA exploits! Can Alex look past the inaccuracies in the depiction of one of his favorite sports? Can Julio look past the similarities to HERE COMES THE BOOM? The answers are all here!TIMELINE00:01:00 Now on Patreon00:09:03 Real Talk01:11:07 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Co...
2022-11-131h 16
The Contrarians167 - Pt. 1 - Warrior (CC)Is there really no other way for two men to resolve their issues than pure violence? And if they must do so, would it be too much to ask not to have them do it in such a paint-by-the-numbers sports movie? WARRIOR managed to somehow dazzle critics into a fresh Tomatometer score, but does it actually offer anything worth talking about, besides its outdated ideas about masculinity? Listen to Alex & Julio as they pick apart Gavin O’Connor’s bloated celebration of MMA and fractured families!TIMELINE00:01:16 Warrior00:15:14 Contrarians Corner- Inte...
2022-11-131h 18
The ContrariansBonus! - The Embries 2022We wrap up our eighth year of podcasting and head into Year Nine by celebrating the good, the bad, the horny, and the super white movies we covered over the past twelve years: it’s THE EMBRIES - 2022 Edition. Don’t worry, it’ll still be fun even if this is your very first Contrarians episode. It might even inspire you to check out some of the awards recipients!TIMELINE00:01:16 The Embries 202200:11:25 Supporting Actress00:27:53 Supporting Actor00:42:49 The Ruffalo00:49:01 The Lancaster Dodd Grant01:00:29 Now on Patreon...
2022-10-312h 06
The Contrarians166 - Pt. 2 - Breaking Dawn (RT)Honestly, if a few months ago you’d told us we’d have a serious sustained discussion about the finale to the Twilight Saga, we would’ve rolled our eyes. And yet here we are, debating whether Jacob was redeemed in the final two movies, trying to suss out how we feel about the franchise’s sudden jump onto a pro-life soapbox, and arguing the merits and flaws of the epic climactic battle. Breaking Dawn Real Talk, indeed.TIMELINE00:00:54 Now on Patreon00:10:37 Real Talk01:01:25 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interest...
2022-10-221h 05
The Contrarians166 - Pt. 1 - Breaking Dawn (CC)The Twilight Saga comes to an end and, unlike those greedy studio-heads, The Contrarians will cover the wedding, honeymoon, pregnancy, birth, recruitment of other vampires and final battle against The Volturi all in one sitting! Listen as Alex & Julio geek out over every single development and cameo in BREAKING DAWN, a movie that may be rotten on the Tomatometer, but will forever be fresh in every Twi-hard’s heart.TIMELINE00:01:16 Breaking Dawn00:09:25 Contrarians Corner- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended pl...
2022-10-221h 00
The Contrarians165 - Pt. 2 - Psycho (RT)You don’t really need us to talk about the original PSYCHO - though you’ll be surprised by one Franchise Killer opinion - when the remake provides much juicier conversation. With six of us on the panel, surely there must be at least one person who sees merit in Gus Van Sant’s experiment? It’s a far more contentious Real Talk than you’d expect!TIMELINE00:00:23 Now on Patreon00:10:09 Real Talk01:16:45 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Pa...
2022-10-111h 19
The Contrarians165 - Pt. 1 - Psycho (CC)This spooky season, we give you two PSYCHOs for the price of one - and we’ve brought four friends to play along! Rhys, Irena, David and AJ from the Franchise Killer podcast join Alex & Julio in nitpicking Alfred Hitchcock’s original PSYCHO, and then also help them praise Gus Van Sant’s experimental remake. It’s Perkins v. Vaughn, Leigh v. Heche, and Macy v. Common Sense in this massive (and massively fun) special episode!TIMELINE00:01:16 Psycho00:17:21 Contrarians Corner (1960)01:07:14 Contrarians Corner (1998)- Wanna know how we really feel about bo...
2022-10-111h 21
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Wake in Fright (RT)If you’ve seen WAKE IN FRIGHT, you’re probably wondering if we’re going to talk about the kangaroo hunt sequence. Of course we are. Real Talk also prompts a discussion about “aggressive hospitality”, a fascinating recount of the time this film was lost, and, of course, whether this Aussie classic hit the Contrarians’ sweet spot! Has Chas Fisher scored a win for his country? Listen and find out!TIMELINE00:00:38 Now on Patreon00:08:46 Real Talk00:58:44 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS...
2022-10-041h 03
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Wake in Fright (CC)We can’t seem to escape the Land of Oz here on The Contrarians. Patron Chas Fisher is throwing Aussie classic WAKE IN FRIGHT at us, and its freshness on the Tomatometer is… inexplicable to say the least. Why are Australians proud of a film that depicts their countrymen as alcoholic brutes? Listen to Alex & Julio as they try to analyze a pretentious Englishman’s descent into madness, and have their image of Donald Pleasence shattered forever!TIMELINE00:01:16 Wake in Fright00:12:21 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Wake i...
2022-10-041h 00
The ContrariansA Goofy Movie (A Patreon Sampler)We’re doing some really cool stuff on our Patreon channel - some of it a direct offspring from things we do on the main feed. Case in point: the continuation of our Summer Break episode, which started with our Dazed and Confused episode, and here moves on to a discussion about a very different kind of Summer flick: A GOOFY MOVIE. Forget the Tomatometer score as Alex & Julio are once again joined by Lilian to talk about how good Goofy is as a parent and how bad Max is a son.Would you like to listen to...
2022-09-251h 03
The Contrarians164 - Pt. 2 - New Moon (RT)We avoided it for years, but it’s time to get acquainted with Taylor Lautner. So let’s be honest: did NEW MOON confirm every negative preconception we had about the third wheel in the Twilight love story? Or were we surprised by how much he added to the saga? And what do we make of Edward’s puzzling disappearance from most of the movie? Are we excited to watch ECLIPSE? The answers are in this Real Talk segment!TIMELINE00:00:57 Now on Patreon00:09:15 Real Talk00:49:39 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Inte...
2022-09-2054 min
The Contrarians164 - Pt. 1 - New Moon (CC)The Twilight Saga arrives on the main feed! Patrons of the show already heard Alex & Julio express their (surprisingly positive) feelings about the opening salvo, TWILIGHT, but this is where the story really kicks in. Why do people hate Jacob Black so much? Is it the washboard abs? Are critics too jaded for an old-fashioned supernatural love triangle? Listen to The Contrarians set the record straight when it comes to the werewolf/teenage-girl romance of the new millennium!TIMELINE00:01:16 New Moon00:17:17 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about...
2022-09-201h 01
The Contrarians163 - Pt. 2 - The Lighthouse (RT)There is something to be said for Robert Eggers’ distinctive filmmaking, whether it actually vibes with you or not. But is admiration for a unique voice a sufficient reason to carry The Contrarians to a positive review of The Lighthouse? How much of Contrarians Corner was just slightly puffed up Real Talk? And when it’s all said and done, are we ready for more of Eggers’ work? The answers may (or may not) shock you! HARK!TIMELINE00:00:54 Now on Patreon00:10:25 Real Talk00:55:48 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In mor...
2022-09-1059 min
The Contrarians163 - Pt. 1 - The Lighthouse (CC)HARK! A24 bamboozles critics again with their particular brand of indie pretentiousness. Black & white? Check. 4:3 aspect ratio? You got it. Unnecessarily convoluted dialogue? Of course. Ludicrously big performances? There they are. THE LIGHTHOUSE ticks off every box necessary to climb to the top of the Tomatometer, so it’s on Alex & Julio to bring it down a few notches. Is there anything left when you remove all the gimmicks?TIMELINE00:01:16 The Lighthouse00:13:51 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about The Lighthouse? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on...
2022-09-1058 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Ghosts of Mars (RT)In one corner, someone who’s generally underwhelmed by John Carpenter’s work. In the other, someone who usually thinks very highly of the filmmaker. Can Alex & Julio meet in the middle when it comes to GHOSTS OF MARS? Is there even need for any sort of compromise? What’s the deal with the Martian Matriarchy anyway? The answers to this and more will be revealed during Real Talk!TIMELINE00:00:14 Now on Patreon00:08:03 Real Talk00:44:51 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our...
2022-08-3150 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Ghosts of Mars (CC)John Carpenter isn’t just The Master of Horror - he’s also a low-key Master of Sci-Fi. The Contrarians would like to submit the underrated GHOSTS OF MARS as proof that Carpenter can handle more than low-budget gorefests: this is a true star-studded Hollywood blockbuster, set in Mars to boot! Listen to Alex & Julio as they discuss the implications of a Matriarchal Martian Society, the fate of Pam Grier’s head, and the boldness of one of the best closing shots in modern cinema.TIMELINE00:01:16 Ghosts of Mars00:15:39 Contrarians Corner- Wann...
2022-08-3159 min
The Contrarians162 - Pt. 2 - Without Saying Goodbye (RT)As you’d expect, Alex has some questions about Peru. But can Julio answer them satisfactorily? And how does a non-Peruvian experience a movie designed to make him crave a visit to Peru? Can we draw parallels to other international cinema we’ve covered on the show? Above all else… is this a fair representation of Peruvian filmmaking? This and more in Real Talk!TIMELINE00:00:41 Now on Patreon00:09:11 Real Talk00:48:47 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips...
2022-08-2252 min
The Contrarians162 - Pt. 1 - Without Saying Goodbye (CC)It’s taken us almost nine years of podcasting to tackle a Peruvian movie, and it took Peru almost twice that time to produce a Netflix Original Movie. Now the stars have aligned and Alex & Julio are primed to jump to the defense of a love story set in Julio’s homeland. WITHOUT SAYING GOODBYE is rotten by Tomatometer standards, but that only means The Contrarians will do their best to highlight its best qualities: awesome locations, hot people, and a spicy romance between polar opposites!TIMELINE00:01:16 Without Saying Goodbye00:11:01 Contrarians Corner...
2022-08-221h 01
The Contrarians161 - Pt. 2 - Dazed and Confused (RT)Hey, we’re Austinites here in this podcast. Does that make us more qualified to talk about an Austin-set movie from an Austin filmmaker? Does it even matter if the high school experience is, supposedly, universal? Find out how Alex, Julio, and, more importantly, elementary school teacher Lilian experienced DAZED AND CONFUSED on this rewatch! Is this Richard Linklater’s Contrarians redemption?TIMELINE00:00:50 Now on Patreon00:09:18 Real Talk01:03:26 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plug...
2022-08-141h 06
The Contrarians161 - Pt. 1 - Dazed and Confused (CC)School’s out forever! Or so Richard Linklater proclaimed in 1993 when he released DAZED AND CONFUSED and bamboozled critics into confusing nostalgia for quality. Listen to Alex, Julio, and returning guest Lilian - a teacher herself - as they discuss the many ways in which Linklater’s beloved coming-of-age film has aged poorly!TIMELINE00:01:16 Dazed and Confused00:15:27 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Dazed and Confused? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on your feed RIGHT NOW!- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE...
2022-08-141h 12
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Last Action Hero (RT)The stage is set for yet another Contrarians battle. Alex will complain about how it used to be better, Julio will gently point toward streaming releases… but through it all, the main question will be answered: is LAST ACTION HERO a good movie or just a vehicle for nostalgia in the year 2022? And could you remake it today?TIMELINE00:00:37 Now on Patreon00:07:35 Real Talk01:11:21 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free fr...
2022-07-301h 14
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Last Action Hero (CC)There wasn’t a bigger action star than Arnold Schwarzenegger in the early 90s. So, in a way, he was the only person who could headline a true spoof of action blockbusters - even though the world wasn’t ready for it. Listen to Alex & Julio extol the virtues of LAST ACTION HERO, a one-of-a-kind beast which was unfairly met with confusion and derision back in the day. Let’s show Arnie we don’t trust that 39% Tomatometer score!TIMELINE00:01:16 Last Action Hero00:17:16 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel abo...
2022-07-301h 05
The Contrarians160 - Pt. 2 - He's Just Not That Into You (RT)Well, well, well. Julio has already admitted Jennifer Aniston is his second favorite Friends Cast Member, and Alex has already confessed to picking HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU only so he could get Ginnifer Goodwin in Contrarians Canon. So where does that leave us? Obviously we still need to talk about Ken Kwapis’ work, what was going on in Friends when this was released, and, more importantly, which character in this movie represents us the most!TIMELINE00:01:00 Now on Patreon00:06:18 Real Talk00:47:50 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Inte...
2022-07-2152 min
The Contrarians160 - Pt. 1 - He's Just Not That Into You (CC)It’s hard to believe it’s taken us 160 episodes to finally tackle a Ken Kwapis joint. Nevertheless, here we are, having a heated argument over HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU for our 16th Grey Area Episode. Listen to Alex on the defense and Julio on the offense as they debate the merits of one of the first star-studded ensemble romcoms and disagree on the validity of the Cult of Rachel Green in the final chapter of the Friendstravaganza!TIMELINE00:01:16 He’s Just Not That Into You00:19:08 Contrarians Corner- Wanna...
2022-07-211h 06
The Contrarians159 - Pt. 2 - Kissing a Fool (RT)As it’s been established time and again, The Contrarians have a fondness for 90s comedies. Does this feeling extend to bro-medies? Can Doug Ellin’s 1998 sensibilities redeem the ho-hum reception Alex & Julio gave the ENTOURAGE movie years ago? More importantly, where do we really land on the Bizarro Ross Experiment? All this and more in the Real Talk half of the show!TIMELINE00:00:30 Now on Patreon00:06:25 Real Talk00:52:42 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, exte...
2022-07-1157 min
The Contrarians159 - Pt. 1 - Kissing a Fool (CC)By 1998, David Schwimmer was sick and tired of being associated with Ross Geller. The solution? To play the least-Ross-Gellerish character in the underrated romcom KISSING A FOOL. Sadly, critics and audiences refused to embrace the actor’s metamorphosis, which is where The Contrarians come in. Listen to Alex & Julio as they extol the virtues of the Anti-Ross and the merits of bro-comedies! (bromedies?) Did we mention this was directed by Doug “Entourage” Ellin? Yup.TIMELINE00:01:16 Kissing a Fool00:21:03 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Kissing a Fool? Check...
2022-07-111h 00
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Drop Dead Fred (RT)Oh boy. Patron Paul Meyers really threw us for a loop with this one. Can Alex & Julio even verbalize how they feel about Drop Dead Fred? Did Paul’s pick land better than his previous one, Dead Alive? Is there a British wall keeping Rik Mayall’s brand of humor at bay, or is it just a nostalgia wall? All this in Real Talk!Barry Roskin Blake interviews Rik Mayall (in case you were wondering where those clips came from)TIMELINE00:00:55 Now on Patreon00:06:42 Real Talk00:45:10 The Future & Perennial Plug...
2022-07-0248 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Drop Dead Fred (CC)What if Peter Pan was actually a good story, one where Wendy was a traumatized adult and Peter was a British comedian? Much like it happened with Spielberg’s Hook, audiences and critics had a hard time appreciating DROP DEAD FRED’s fresh take on the classic story… which means it’s time for The Contrarians to set the record straight. Listen to Alex & Julio as they discuss their discovery of another gem in Phoebe Cates’ filmography! (Oh and Rik Mayall’s cool too.)TIMELINE00:01:16 Drop Dead Fred00:09:48 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know h...
2022-07-0254 min
The Contrarians158 - Pt. 2 - Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (RT)Okay, so we know this is the Lisa Kudrow chapter of the Friendstravaganza, but we have to warn you: a good chunk of Real Talk turns into a Mira Sorvino lovefest - and rightly so. But even if Alex, Stew and Julio agree on how great Ms. Sorvino is, can they agree on anything else when it comes to ROMY & MICHELLE’S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION?TIMELINE00:00:43 Now on Patreon00:06:24 Real Talk01:00:55 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! De...
2022-06-211h 05
The Contrarians158 - Pt. 1 - Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (CC)On paper, the math adds up: if audiences love one Phoebe, then they’ll go nuts for two Phoebes! And it certainly worked that way with critics, as ROMY AND MICHELE’S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION is certified fresh on the Tomatometer - but how does it play today? Listen to Alex & Julio as they welcome Stew from the SWO podcast and travel back to a time when feminism meant letting Alan Cumming save the day! It’s the Lisa Kudrow chapter of the Friendstravaganza!TIMELINE00:01:16 Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion00:20:19 Contrarians Corner...
2022-06-211h 04
The Contrarians157 - Pt. 2 - Almost Heroes (RT)Ok, so maybe Matthew Perry can only play (variations of) Chandler Bing. But is that a bad thing? And how can anyone discuss ALMOST HEROES without talking about Chris Farley’s legacy and how it was cut short? Can Alex come to terms with Julio’s feelings about one of his favorite comedians? Can Julio explain why his favorite FRIENDS cast member didn’t become a movie star? All this and more on the Real Talk half of this episode!TIMELINE00:01:00 Now on Patreon00:06:10 Real Talk00:54:14 The Future & Perennial Plugs- I...
2022-06-1157 min
The Contrarians157 - Pt. 1 - Almost Heroes (CC)The Friendstravaganza has reached its Chandler Bing chapter. Could we BE any more excited to celebrate Matthew Perry’s critically panned team-up with Chris Farley? ALMOST HEROES stands at a disastrous 5% on the Tomatometer, but is that simply a reflection of an America that hates it when its movie stars take big swings? Listen to Alex & Julio as they shine the spotlight back on one of those rare Christopher Guest movies that isn’t a mockumentary!TIMELINE00:01:16 Almost Heroes00:19:50 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Almost Heroes? Chec...
2022-06-111h 04
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - The Damned United (RT)Do you need to be familiar with the ins and outs of British soccer in order to appreciate Tom Hooper’s early work? And will THE DAMNED UNITED mark a turning point in this show’s contentious relationship with the acclaimed director’s filmography? Listen to Alex & Julio navigate their feelings about the filmmaker’s second movie with the help of a set of notes from Patron Ben Murray!TIMELINE00:00:57 Now on Patreon00:10:45 Real Talk01:00:45 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our P...
2022-06-011h 03
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - The Damned United (CC)The disconnect between British behavior in normal life and British behavior in sports has never been more obvious than when it comes to soccer. So why didn’t THE DAMNED UNITED explore that dichotomy instead of celebrating the career of a dude who couldn’t even last two months on his most high-profile job? Listen to Alex & Julio tackle yet another critical darling in Tom Hooper’s filmography and try to figure out if Michael Sheen is worthy of his legendary last name!TIMELINE00:01:16 The Damned United00:17:36 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know h...
2022-06-011h 02
The Contrarians156 - Pt. 2 - Scream 2 (RT)Regardless of whether they think SCREAM 2 is a good movie (and a good sequel), can Alex forgive the fact that Julio can’t quote the original SCREAM page & verse? That might be the real conflict in this Real Talk segment. But also: is this a Kevin Williamson movie directed by Wes Craven, or a Wes Craven movie written by Kevin Williamson? And can we complain about SCREAM 5 spoilers when we drop SCREAM 3 spoilers in this episode?TIMELINE00:01:04 Patreon & Livestream for the Cure00:10:13 Real Talk01:01:40 The Future & Perennial Plugs- In...
2022-05-211h 08
The Contrarians156 - Pt. 1 - Scream 2 (CC)The Friendstravaganza moves on to its second chapter, as Courteney Cox finds herself in the spotlight! Unfortunately, she’s bringing one of the most overrated sequels to Contrarians canon. Why are people so enamored with SCREAM 2? How can anyone buy the inexplicable relationship between Gale and Dewey? And what’s the appeal of Sydney, a heroine who seems basically unimpressed by all the horrific things happening in her life? Listen to Alex & Julio as they nitpick yet another Wes Craven movie!TIMELINE00:01:16 Scream 200:21:02 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel...
2022-05-211h 19
The Contrarians155 - Pt. 2 - Lost in Space (RT)Joey Tribbiani iiiiiinnnnn sssssspaaaaaaace… Did we buy Matt LeBlanc as an action hero? Did we buy this serious reboot of a 60s property as a viable franchise? This is where you find out. Also - and perhaps more importantly - a full rundown of what our LIVESTREAM FOR THE CURE segment will be like!TIMELINE00:00:52 Patreon & Livestream for the Cure00:10:30 Real Talk00:56:03 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free from the To...
2022-05-111h 00
The Contrarians155 - Pt. 1 - Lost in Space (CC)The Friendstravaganza begins! Join Alex & Julio as they celebrate a high point in Matt LeBlanc’s career: the much reviled LOST IN SPACE film adaptation - a movie that had the courage to take a campy sci-fi TV show and turn it into a dark gritty blockbuster adventure. Can Joey Tribbiani hold his own against Daddy William Hurt and Scene-Stealing Gary Oldman? You already know the answer!TIMELINE00:01:16 Lost in Space00:19:32 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Lost in Space? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on...
2022-05-111h 02
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Private Life (RT)This is Netflix’s second-best original film, according to patron Dan Brenic, but how does it fare on Alex and Julio’s personal rankings? Can you relate to PRIVATE LIFE if you have zero interest in ever having children? Who is this Kayli Carter and does she measure up to consummate pros like Giamatti and Hahn? Most importantly: can we ever see John Carroll Lynch as anyone but The Zodiac Killer?TIMELINE00:00:47 Now on Patreon00:11:28 Real Talk00:56:27 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONT...
2022-05-051h 02
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - Private Life (CC)PRIVATE LIFE could’ve been a ruthless exposé of a multimillion-dollar industry that preys on desperate souls who just want to raise a child or two. Or it could’ve been an edge-of-your-seat thriller about a husband & wife who take advantage of a clueless, idealistic young woman. Instead, it’s an artsy-fartsy drama about Paul Giamatti & Kathryn Hahn having a terrible marriage. Listen to Alex and Julio as they try to figure out who’s the least fit to be a parent in one of Netflix’s most acclaimed original movies!TIMELINE00:01:16 Private Life00:16:09...
2022-05-0558 min
The Contrarians154 - Pt. 2 - Knives Out (RT)What exactly drove Julio to watch KNIVES OUT four times? And how does Alex really feel about the movie’s politics? Does Rian Johnson remain on The Contrarians’ good side after his most recent movie, or has this relationship hit a snag? All this, plus: We pick our favorite characters and favorite moments - all as part of Real Talk.TIMELINE00:01:05 Now on Patreon00:12:20 Real Talk00:49:44 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus epis...
2022-04-3053 min
The Contrarians154 - Pt. 1 - Knives Out (CC)What happens when a filmmaker on the rise makes a divisive franchise movie? Well, if the filmmaker is Rian Johnson and the franchise is Star Wars, the poor guy then gets bullied into making a bland crowdpleaser like KNIVES OUT to restore his reputation. And it worked! Listen to Alex & Julio nitpick their way through yet another overhyped entry in that most convoluted of genres, the Whoddunit!TIMELINE00:01:16 Knives Out00:12:21 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Knives Out? Check out the Real Talk (RT) episode, on your...
2022-04-301h 03
The ContrariansThe Rock Vs. John Cena: Part 3 (A Patreon Sampler)We’re doing some really cool stuff on our Patreon channel - some of it very different from what we offer on our main feed. Case in point: our Rock Vs. John Cena miniseries, where Alex schools Julio on the epic rivalry between the two pro wrestling superstars. Wanna check it out? Here’s Part 3, sort of a stand-alone episode which focuses on The Summer of Punk and includes a discussion of the surprisingly well-received CM Punk vehicle, GIRL ON THE THIRD FLOOR!Would you like to listen to the rest of our Rock Vs John Cena miniseries? Join...
2022-04-192h 14
The Contrarians153 - Pt. 2 - Left Behind (RT)Let’s get real: we’ve done far worse movies than LEFT BEHIND on this show, and their Tomatometer scores were much higher. But does that make this Nic Cage religious movie a good film, or just one that’s not as bad as, say, Ready to Rumble? Do you experience the rapture differently if you’re familiar with Chad Michael Murray’s career? And does the Kirk Cameron version of this story sound more interesting? Find out during Real Talk!TIMELINE00:00:49 Now on Patreon00:10:03 Real Talk00:56:46 The Future & Perennial Plugs- In...
2022-04-151h 00
The Contrarians153 - Pt. 1 - Left Behind (CC)How do you score a 0% Tomatometer score when your movie features Nicolas Cage? The answer is obvious: the world isn’t ready for a faith-based blockbuster. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t celebrate LEFT BEHIND, a cinematic masterpiece that did the Thanos Snap waaaaaaay before Infinity War! And yes, God is Thanos in this scenario. Listen to Alex & Julio as they geek out over the Chad Michael Murray vehicle they didn’t know they needed!TIMELINE00:01:16 Left Behind (2014)00:13:27 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we really feel about Left Behind...
2022-04-1558 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert (RT)So how did we really feel about The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and do our feelings match those of patron Ryan, who demanded this episode AND sent us a heartfelt email to be read in it? Will the Contrarians finally find common ground with Australian cinema, or is this accidental feud doomed to continue forever? And yes, we do muse about the American remake…TIMELINE00:00:42 Now on Patreon00:11:35 Real Talk00:49:57 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Pa...
2022-04-0555 min
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 1 - The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the DesertIs there a word for “woke humble bragging” in Australia? Or do people just point to old VHS tapes of THE ADVENTURES OF PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT? Director Stephan Elliot goes above and beyond to tell the world how open-minded the Land of Oz truly is when it comes to charismatic drag queens, but anyone with an internet connection knows reality is much harsher than what this movie’s peddling. Listen to Alex & Julio as they explore the early careers of Agent Smith, General Zod, and Ed Exley!TIMELINE00:01:16 The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the...
2022-04-0553 min
The Contrarians152 - Pt. 2 - Moneyball (RT)So how true is this true story exactly? And did Alex & Julio experience it differently because one is a sports fan and the other one isn’t? (guess who’s who) Listen as The Contrarians level with each other about the points MONEYBALL makes, the ones it doesn’t, and whether this is Jonah Hill’s best performance.TIMELINE00:00:56 Now on Patreon00:11:11 Real Talk01:03:41 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free from the...
2022-03-221h 08
The Contrarians152 - Pt. 1 - Moneyball (CC)How many times is Brad Pitt going to fail at portraying a Regular Joe before he realizes it’s just not within his reach anymore? He’s Hollywood MegaStar Brad Pitt! And even if you could get past that bit of fake news in MONEYBALL, you’d still have to deal with Serious Actor Jonah Hill (successfully) grabbing for an Academy Awards nomination. All this while poor Phillip Seymour Hoffman is ignored on the sidelines, and the plot does its best to suck the fun out of sports. Listen to Alex & Julio give this acclaimed Miller/Zaillian/Sorkin collaboration The Co...
2022-03-221h 05
The Contrarians151 - Pt. 2 - Semi-Pro (RT)Boy, you thought we were positive in Contrarians Corner? Wait until you hear Alex during Real Talk. Sit back and enjoy the most enthusiastic discussion about Semi-Pro that’s been had… probably since the movie was pitched to studio execs. But can we figure out why it didn’t succeed in the way other Will Ferrell comedies did around that time?TIMELINE00:00:40 Now on Patreon00:11:19 Real Talk01:02:39 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus...
2022-03-161h 06
The Contrarians151 - Pt. 1 - Semi-Pro (CC)It turns out that basketball isn’t really appreciated in America. How else would you explain SEMI-PRO’s rotten standing among critics? The Will Ferrell vehicle is a perfect celebration of American can-do attitude, loaded with comedic all-stars at the top of their game, and yet… it’s somehow seen as a lesser Ferrell film. Well, Alex & Julio won’t stand for it! Listen to The Contrarians go to bat (or shoot a hoop) for Jackie, Monix, Clarence, and the rest of the gang!TIMELINE00:01:16 Semi-Pro00:15:11 Contrarians Corner- Wanna know how we rea...
2022-03-161h 16
The ContrariansBonus! - Pt. 2 - Pan's Labyrinth (RT)You heard us pretend to be unimpressed by PAN’S LABYRINTH, but how do we really feel about Guillermo Del Toro’s first Oscars darling? Listen to Alex & Julio discuss the film’s ambiguous ending, whether Captain Vidal was just too much, and why we were somehow spared an American remake.TIMELINE00:00:14 Now on Patreon00:07:32 Real Talk00:58:38 The Future & Perennial Plugs- Interested In more Contrarians goodness? Join THE CONTRARIANS SUPPLEMENTS on our Patreon Page! Deleted clips, extended plugs, bonus episodes free from the Tomatometer shackles… It’s everything a Contrari...
2022-03-011h 02