The First Run
The First Run is a weekly podcast featuring lively, spirited talk about film. We'll be discussing a wide variety of films including new releases, lost classics and perhaps a controversial opinion or two. So come join us for some animated conversation, that only occasionally devolves into rudimentary chimp-like poop throwing.
Fri, April 25, 2025
TFR Ep. 756 Sinners, 5 Favorite Southern Gothic Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out the latest from Ryan Coogler and his first foray into horror with ‘Sinners’. Then, Chris will give you the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video Pick of the Week, Matt will tell you what to watch with the Streaming Pick of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Southern Gothic films that may or may not be horror adjacent. 00:00-17:54: Intro/Sinners 17:55-29:00: Physical Media Picks 29:01-47:43: 5 Favorite Southern Gothic Horror Films 47:44-49:38 Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 18, 2025
TFR Bonus Ep. 6: Antichrist, Let The Right One In, Blu-Ray Picks, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, it’s retro-week as Matt is out of town and Chris is otherwise occupied. In this classic episode from 2010, Chris, Matt, and Espo(?!?) get all spookified with their discussions about Lars Van Trier's 'Antichrist', as well as the Swedish vampire import, 'Let The Right One In’. Crazy Swedes…They review a rather weak week (see what I did there?) in blu-ray and dvd releases. Also on this episode, it’s the premier of the segment called 'What Are The Odds?', where they guys choose a topic and apply some odds making to it. Who doesn't enjoy a little gambling every now and again? 00:00-20:45: Intro/Antichrist 20:46-30:53: Physical Media Picks 30:54-46:33: Let The Right One In 46:34-1:08:08: What Are The Odds?!? 1:08:09-1:09:23: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 11, 2025
TFR Ep. 755: Freaky Tales, Death Of A Unicorn, 5 Favorite Val Kilmer Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt engage with (or is it test) their love of anthology films with Ryan Fleck’s and Anna Boden’s ‘Freaky Tales’. A set of tall, kinda’ true tales set in Oakland in 1987. Do the creative team behind ‘Half Nelson’ and ‘Captain Marvel’ spin an engaging, winding, and ultimately cohesive tale? Chris explains why ‘Death Of A Unicorn’ was booted. And there’s the magical rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then close out the proceedings with a loving homage to Val Kilmer as they discuss their favorite Val performances. RIP Iceman. 00:00-12:53: Intro/Freaky Tales 12:54-26:05: Physical Media Picks, et al 26:06-28:21: Death Of A Unicorn 28:22-41:48: 5 Favorite Val Kilmer Performances 41:49-43:25: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 04, 2025
TFR Ep. 754: The Electric State, Ash
This week on The First Run, Chris is on the way out of town to the Big Easy so you are left with this amuse bouche of an episode. First, Matt and Chris will discuss the latest bit of Netflix content from the Russo Brothers with ‘The Electric State’. Then Chris gives you his thoughts on the latest sci-fi horror from Shudder, ‘Ash’. Turn in next week to see how many hurricanes Chris held down. 00:00-11:21: Intro/The Electric State 11:22-15:21: Ash 15:22-16:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 28, 2025
TFR Ep. 753: Black Bag, Call It!
This week on The First Run, it’s the show you thought would never happen (if you listened last week). Chris and Matt discuss the latest (and second film of 2025) from maestro Steven Soderbergh. This time it’s the spy-thriller ‘Black Bag’. Is good ol’ Uncle Steve spreading himself too thin, or is it another banger as the kids say? A fine James Bond fill-in while we wait…and wait… There’s the suspicious rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris play a round of this or that with ‘Call It!’. So power on this secret burner phones and text your top secret war plans to your favorite writer. It’s another episode of The First Run! 00:00-10:59: Intro/Black Bag 11:00-19:48: Physical Media Picks 19:49-35:25: Call It! 35:26-37:09: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 21, 2025
TFR Ep. 752: Novocaine, 5 Favorite Soderbergh Scenes
This week on The First Run is full of disappointment and regret. Chris and Matt check out America's favorite Quaid in ‘Novocaine’. As always, they give you the big releases on Physical Media, along with the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris regale you with their 5 Favorite Steven Soderbergh Characters, for some reason. 00:00-11:34: Intro/Novocaine 11:35-20:15: Physical Media Picks 20:16-34:54: 5 Favorite Soderbergh Characters 34:55-37:22: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 14, 2025
TFR Ep. 751: Mickey 17, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Mickey 17 is so fine, how so fine you ask? Did he blow our minds? That the question Chris and Matt answer this week as they discuss the latest form Mr. Bong Joon-Ho. There’s the so-good-we-should-clone-it rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris close out the big show with the return of one of their least favorite games, ‘What Are The Odds?!?”. 00:00-10:23: Intro/Mickey 17 10:24-20:48: Physical Media Picks 20:49-38:11: What Are The Odds?!? 38:12-39:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 07, 2025
TFR Ep. 750: Nickel Boys, 5 Favorite Gene Hackman Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out the Best Picture nominee ‘Nickel Boys’, a story of another dark chapter in American history. Also, Matt has a hard time getting past that is supposed to be in Tallahassee. As always, they give you the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and streaming picks of the week, then wrap it all up with a tribute to a legend with their 5 Favorite Gene Hackman Performances. 00:00-15:10: Intro/Nickel Boys 15:11-30:39: Physical Media Picks & Oscar Results 30:40-43:31: 5 Favorite Gene Hackman Performances 43:32-44:58: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 28, 2025
TFR Ep. 749: The Monkey, 2025 Oscar Predictions
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt decide to throw caution to the wind, crank their monkey and see who gets taken out next. It’s Oz Perkins’ ‘The Monkey’! Based on the Stephen King story about a cursed not-a-toy drumming wind up monkey that brings nothing but carnage. But in a fun way. There’s the banana loving rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris make their Oscars picks to help you determine what NOT to do on your bracket. All this and more on another primate filled episode of The First Run! 00:00-14:32: Intro/The Monkey 14:33-23:24: Physical Media Picks 23:25-36:06: 2025 Oscar Predictions 36:07-37:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Scalzo Oscar Ballot Matt Oscar Ballot
Fri, February 21, 2025
TFR Ep. 748: Captain America: Brave New World, The Gorge, 5 Favorite Anya Taylor-Joy Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the latest from the MCU with ‘Captain America: Brave New World’. Then they dust off the Apple+ subscription and check out Anya Taylor Joy and Miles Teller light up the screen with their incredible chemistry in ‘The Gorge’. As always, they give you the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and streaming picks of the week, then they wrap it all up with their 5 favorite performances from Ms. Taylor Joy. 00:00-16:56: Intro/Captain America: Brave New World 16:57-25:26: Physical Media Picks 25:27-34:17: The Gorge 34:18-44:34: 5 Favorite Anya Taylor Joy Performances 44:35-47:27: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 14, 2025
TFR Ep. 747: Heart Eyes, Red Rooms, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt rethink their Valentine’s Day plans and decide to have some bro time. For the ladies. First up, funny man with apparent psychological problems Josh Ruben returns with the Valentine’s Day themed slasher, ‘Heart Eyes’. Then it’s the Canadian thriller based on that weird lady in the neighborhood’s internet search history, ‘Red Rooms’. Though maybe you think you can still fix her…? There’s the machete sharpening rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up this spooktacular episode with a round of TFR Libs. 00:00-10:02: Intro/Heart Eyes 10:03-20:15: Physical Media Picks 20:16-29:06: Red Rooms 29:07-51:00: TFR Libs 51:01-52:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 07, 2025
TFR Ep. 746: Companion, 5 Favorite Performances of 2024
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris are reminded about the dangers of "emotional support" robots yet again with ‘Companion’. They give you the physical media, Viper Video and streaming picks of the week. Then they wrap up the show by handing out the real acting honors of Hollywood with their 5 Favorite Performances of 2024! 00:00-13:09: Intro/Companion 13:10-18:40: Fantastic Four Trailer 18:41-23:51: Physical Media Picks 23:52-34:54: 5 Favorite Performances of 2024 34:55-36:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 31, 2025
TFR Ep. 745: Presence, Wolf Man, 10 Favorite Films 2024: 5-1
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss a pair of thrillers to open 2025. First up, it’s the return of the king, with Steven Soderbergh’s haunted house thriller, ‘Presence’. It’s a ghost story not really about a ghost story. After that, it’s Leigh Whannell’s not Wolfman, Wolf Man, with ‘Wolf Man’. Does Matt FINALLY get the wolf man horror film he deserves? As always, there’s the spookily spectacular review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Films of 2024! 00:00-11:17: Intro/Presence 11:18-18:27: Physical Media Picks 18:28-28:44: Wolf Man 28:45-42:25: 10 Favorite Films 2024: 5-1 42:26-44:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 24, 2025
TFR Ep. 744: The Brutalist, 10 Favorite Films 2024: 10-6
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt put those honorary film degrees to use with their review of ‘The Brutalist’, the singular film event of 2024 for film nerds. They give you the big releases on physical media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show by telling you what you should watch with the bottom half their 10 Favorite Films of 2024. Let’s get this party started! 00:00-25:55: Intro/The Brutalist 25:56-35:29: Physical Media Picks 35:30-50:15: Top Films of 2024: 10-6 50:16-52:32: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 17, 2025
TFR Ep. 743: The Order, A Complete Unknown, Juror #2, 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2025: 5-1
This week on The First Run, or as we may now have to start calling it, The Nick Hoult Cinema Experience! First up, Nick plays real-life neo-nazi Bob Mathews, while Jude Law is lawman Terry Husk (not a real person) in the Canadian thriller, ‘The Order’. Chris then shares his thoughts on ‘A Complete Unknown’, the Bob Dylan biopic that Matt was spared from watching. Next up, it’s the captivating review of the big releases on Physical Media featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then the 2024 catch up continues with Clint Eastwood’s ‘Juror #2’. Clint returns to the director’s chair so we can all enjoy Nick Hoult in a legal thriller! Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2025: 5-1! TFR 2025 Calendar 00:00-12:39: Intro/The Order 12:40-17:30: A Complete Unknown 17:31-28:36: Physical Media Picks 28:37-35:34: Juror # 2 35:35-51:25: 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2025: 5-1 51:26-54:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 10, 2025
TFR Ep. 742: 2024 Catch-Up: Conclave, Nightbitch, 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2025: 10-6
Welcome back, constant listeners! In this episode of The First Run, Chris and Matt find their religion and ride along as the College of Cardinals elects the next owner of the Pope-Mobile in "Conclave." Then they check out ‘Nightbitch’, in which one Amy Adams says "Night, bitch!" to being a mom and a human woman. As always, there’s a confession about the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap it all up with part one of their Most Anticipated Films of 2025. 00:00-13:05: Intro/Conclave 13:06-22:26: Physical Media Picks of the Week 22:27-33:54: Nightbitch 33:55-47:00: Most Anticipated Films of 2025: Part 1 47:01-48:18: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 03, 2025
TFR Ep. 741: Nosferatu, 5 Favorite Scenes Of 2024
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss their most anticipated film of 2024. Robert Eggers’ ’Nosferatu’ is finally here. Was it worth the wait, does it meet or exceed our expectations, or is it something else entirely? There’s the intoxicating review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Steaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. The Rotten Tomatoes Score game wraps for the year. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Scenes of 2024 (probably). So grab your crosses and garlic. We gots a Nosferatu to hunt! 00:00-20:26: Intro/Nosferatu (2024) 20:27-26:58: Physical Media Picks 26:59-41:01: 5 Favorite Scenes Of 2024* 41:02-42:19: Final RT Game Recap 42:20-43:58: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 27, 2024
TFR Ep. 740: Carry-On, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt review the latest potential entry into the "Is the action thriller a Christmas movie?" pantheon with the latest from Jaume Collet-Serra and Netflix, ‘Carry On’. They break down the big releases on Physical Media, the Streaming and Viper Video picks of the week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with another edition of Call It!, in which Matt was a slacker and came up with nothing to contribute. 00:00-12:21: Intro/Carry On 12:22-21:42: Physical Media Picks 21:43-37:58: Call It! 37:59-40:52: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 20, 2024
TFR Ep. 739: Kraven The Hunter, 5 Favorite Christmas Movie Characters
This week on The First Run, the Sony Spider-Man, not Spider-Man, universe comes to a merciful close with ‘Kraven The Hunter’. We’re not counting ‘Spider-Noir’ on MGM+. Is it a fitting send-off? The last bleating cries of a project that featured just miss after miss after miss. The death rattle of a franchise. Do we finally have a good entry? There’s the mind bending long rundown of the big releases on Physical Media featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Christmas Movie Characters. We’ll see if Matt just names Jim Carrey’s Grinch 5 times. Happy Holidays! 00:00-13:45: Intro/Kraven The Hunter 13:46-20:18: Physical Media Picks 20:19-30:29: 5 Favorite Christmas Movie Characters 30:30-31:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 13, 2024
TFR Ep. 738: Werewolves, 5 Favorite Genre Actors
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt slum it the genre B-move gutters they love so much with ‘Werewolves’. There’s the teeth-glaring breakdown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then, Matt and Chris wrap it up by sharing their 5 Favorite Genre Actors. So look out for those super-moons my furry friends! 00:00-11:22: Intro/Werewolves 11:23-20:37: Physical Media Picks 20:38-31:09: 5 Favorite Genre Actors 31:10-33:46: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 06, 2024
TFR Ep. 737: Blitz, Who Dat?!?
This week Chris and Matt discuss the Apple+ original from director Steve McQueen, it’s ‘Blitz’. It’s our second Odyssey-esque film of the year. This time Saoirse Ronan stars with Elliott Heffernan as the mother and son separated during the blitz of England trying to survive and reunite. There’s the bottled lightning that is the Big Releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with a round of everyone’s favorite role-playing game, Who Dat?!? 00:00-10:13: Intro/Blitz 10:14-19:08: Physical Media Picks 19:09-42:39: Who Dat?!? 42:40-44:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 29, 2024
TFR Ep. 736: Gladiator II, 5 Favorite Ridley Scott Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt want to be sure you are entertained so they have a discussion on the latest sword and sandals epic from Ridley Scott with ‘Gladiator II’. Next up they discuss the big releases on Physical Media, give you their Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap it all up with their Top 5 Ridley Scott Characters. 00:00-15:00: Intro/Gladiator II 15:01-21:40: Physical Media Picks 21:41-36:17: 5 Favorite Ridley Scott Characters 36:18-40:36: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 22, 2024
TFR Ep. 735: Red One, 2024 Holiday Gift Guide
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt join Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evan’s on the mission to rescue Nick in ‘Red One’, the family-not-so-friendly holiday action film of November 2024! Next up, it’s on to the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Finally Matt and Chris close out the show with the 2024 Holiday Gift Guide for the film lover in your life. Or just for you. 00:00-11:20: Intro/Red One 11:21-20:09: Physical Media Picks 20:10-36:58: 2024 Holiday Gift Guide 36:59-41:04: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Bluesky
Fri, November 15, 2024
TFR Ep. 734: Anora, Heretic, 5 Favorite Against-Type Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt continue to work their way down the sex worker ladder with Sean Baker’s latest, ‘Anora’. Then they highlight an extremely specific and relatively unlikely ,but no less valid, danger of religion with ‘Heretic’. As always they give you the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and Streaming picks of the week, then wrap this all up with their 5 favorite roles where actors played against type. 00:00-17:54: Intro/Anora 17:55-27:02: Physical Media Picks 27:03-36:30: Heretic 36:31-50:06: 5 Favorite Roles Against Type 50:07-53:42: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 08, 2024
TFR Ep. 733: Azrael, 5 Favorite Political Thrillers
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the post-rapture horror film, ‘Azrael’, featuring current scream queen Samara Weaving. Does the mostly dialogue-less film deliver the scares and dread? Or does it feel like a gimmick? And is that Esperanto I hear…? There’s the death-defying rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Chris and Matt then close out the big show by sharing their 5 Favorite Political Thrillers, apropos of absolutely nothing. Fingers crossed, here we go! 00:00-14:29: Intro/Azrael 14:30-21:29: Physical Media Picks 21:30-37:03: 5 Favorite Politcal Thrillers 37:04-41:35: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 01, 2024
TFR Ep. 732: Venom: The Last Dance, Rank ‘Em: SSU
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt check out the final installment of Sony's Venom series, ‘Venom: The Last Dance’. Does the series go out with a bang or a whimper? You can probably guess but the guys will give you the final word on how it is. As always, Chris will bring the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and streaming picks of the week. Finally, Matt and Chris will tell you which entry in the Sony Spider-Man Universe sits atop the steaming heap. 00:00-14:53: Intro/Venom: The Last Dance 14:54-27:43: Physical Media Picks P 27:44-39:52: Rank ‘Em: Sony Spider-Man Universe 39:53-41:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 25, 2024
TFR Ep. 731: Smile 2, The Shadow Strays, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt dial up the carnage and suffering. First up, director Parker Finn takes over the reins for the solid ‘Smile’ film sequel with ‘Smile 2: Still Smilin‘’. Who’s our smile demon going to possess this time? And why is it never someone with a jacked up grill? After that, it’s the grin-inducing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then venture to Jakarta for Timo Tjahjanto’s ‘The Shadow Strays’. There’s a super secret organization of assassins out there, what happens with a hit goes wrong? Or maybe you just want to get out the game? Finally the guys close out the show with a round of Bill from Peekskill, NY’s favorite game, What Are The Odds?!? So let’s all say cheese and hope no one dies. It’s another episode of The First Run! 00:00-10:09: Intro/Smile 2 10:10-17:33: Physical Media Picks 17:34-24:32: The Shadow Strays 24:33-38:48: What Are The Odds?!? 38:49-40:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 18, 2024
TFR Ep. 730: V/H/S: Beyond, 5 Favorite Horror Anthologies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt adjust the tracking on their VCRs to no avail with the latest in the V/H/S series, ‘V/H/S Beyond’. Then, they’ll give you the rundown of the Big Releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris will wrap up the show with their all killer, no filler list of their 5 favorite Horror Anthologies. 00:00-25:57: Intro/VHS Beyond 25:58-36:25: Physical Media Picks 36:26-55:14: 5 Favorite Horror Anthologies 55:15-56:29: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 11, 2024
TFR Ep. 729: Joker: Folie à Deux, Salem’s Lot (24), 5 Streaming Horror Picks
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt find themselves back in early 80’s Gotham with the return of ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’. The first film received a less than stellar reaction from your erstwhile hosts. Can Todd Phillips’ latest musical super-hero film win them over? Then there’s the maniacal rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. But wait, there’s more! The long-delayed Stephen King adaptation of ‘Salem’s Lot’ has landed on Max. Was it worth the wait? Finally, Matt and Chris close out the big program with 5 Streaming Horror Picks for this Halloween Season! 00:00-15:33: Intro/Joker: Folie à Deux 15:34-23:36: Physical Media Picks 23:37-34:13: Salem’s Lot (24) 34:14-49:34: 5 Streaming Horror Picks 49:35-50:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 04, 2024
TFR Ep. 728: Megalopolis, 5 Favorite Directorial Runs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt go big, some would even say mega. Big stars, big performance choices, big run times with Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis. We’ll give you the big releases on physical media, the viper video and streaming picks of the week. Then we wrap it up with our Top 5 Four film directorial runs. 00:00-21:45: Intro/Megalopolis 21:46-32:15: Physical Media Picks 32:16-48:48: 5 Favorite Directorial Runs 48:49-50:37: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey©
Fri, September 27, 2024
TFR Ep. 727: The Substance, 5 Favorite Body Horror Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt find themselves the closest mirror and take a long look at themselves aging… just getting so old… and discuss Coralie Fargeat’s ‘The Substance’. Demi Moore returns with a power house performance in possibly the most divisive horror films of the year. There’s the life-splitting rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Body Horror Films! 00:00-14:17: Intro/The Substance 14:18-25:20: Physical Media Picks 25:21-45:30: 5 Favorite Body Horror Films 45:31-47:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 20, 2024
TFR Ep. 726: Speak No Evil (’24), Rebel Ridge, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris make some new friends and go on a quiet retreat in the country with ‘Speak No Evil’. Surely, nothing bad will happen at all. Then they catch up with the latest from First Run Favorite Jeremy Saulnier for a bit of the ultra-violence (?) with ‘Rebel Ridge’. As always, they give you the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then wrap it up with another round of the fill in the blank game, TFR Libs. 00:00-15:35: Intro/Speak No Evil 15:36-26:31: Physical Media Picks 26:32-41:13: Rebel Ridge 41:14-1:03:00: TFR Libs 1:03:01-1:06:34: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 13, 2024
TFR Ep. 725: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, 5 Favorite Michael Keaton Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the return of that madcap demon, Beetlejuice in ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’. Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara and Tim Burton return, this time with Jenna Ortega (queen of the requel) to tell bring us up to date on the Deetz family as they are tormented by Beetlejuice one more time. There’s the undead rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Michael Keaton Performances. Let’s see if we can get Matt to say, “I’m Batman’”. 00:00-17:35: Intro/Beetlejuice Beetlejuice 17:36-24:07: Physical Media Picks 24:08-38:05: 5 Favorite Michael Keaton Performances 38:06-40:01: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 06, 2024
TFR Ep. 724: AfrAId, The Killer (24), 5 Favorite Blumhouse Horror Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the latest film about the dangers of AI, the boogeyman du jour, with Blumhouse's, ‘AfrAId’. Then it’s on to the latest from John Woo, who remakes his own classic of the genre, for some reason, with ‘The Killer’. As always there is the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Blumhouse Horror Films. Get ready do some spooooooky fun! 00:00-14:09: Intro/AfrAId 14:10-25:28: Physical Media Picks 25:29-36:13: The Killer (2024) 36:14-52:51: 5 Favorite Blumhouse Horror Films 52:52-54:34: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 30, 2024
TFR Ep. 723: The Crow (24), Strange Darling, 5 Worst Reboots
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt bring back the double-feature just for you! Specifically you [enter name here]. First up it’s the reboot of the middlingly popular Crow franchise with, ‘The Crow’. One of the Skarsgård kids plays Eric Draven with pop music star FKA Twigs as Shelly. Director of the original film, Alex Proyas is having a blast with the film’s poor reviews. Do those stuck up critics have it all wrong again? Then there’s the subversive viral hit that is ‘Strange Darling’. It’s a serial killer movie that keeps its audience guessing. Are the final answers worth the effort? There’s the goth focused rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then close out the show with the 5 Worst Reboots they are desperate to forget. That’s called foreshadowing kids! 00:00-15:53: Intro/The Crow (2024) 15:54-22:21: Physical Media Picks 22:22-29:10: Strange Darling 29:11-53:19: 5 Worst Reboots 53:20-54:59: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 23, 2024
TFR Ep. 722: Alien: Romulus, Favorite Alien Scenes
This week, it’s a team-up with ScreenRun and The First Run as The Lady Wan, Chris Scalzo, and Matt Howell suit up and shoot into space one more time for the latest in the Alien franchise, ‘Alien: Romulus’. Fede Alvarez of ‘Evil Dead’ and ‘Don’t Breathe’ directs the latest foray into deep space terror as a group of desperate people try to scavenge a derelict space station for space parts that will allow them to resettle on a new planet for a better life. Except something may (is) waiting for them…. A storied franchise with more than its share of highs and lows, how does the latest trip into the space haunted house in space work out this time? All this and more on the latest episode of ScreenRun and The First Run! 00:00-34:53: Intro/Alien: Romulus 34:54-41:03: Physical Media Picks 41:04-57:37: Best Scenes From Each Alien Film 57:38-1:01:19: Best Alien Romulus Performance 1:01:19-1:04:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 16, 2024
TFR Ep. 721: Cuckoo, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt dive headfirst into the cinematic wonderland of the latest releases—so you don’t have to! This week, they’re cracking open the latest in arthouse horror from Neon, ‘Cuckoo’! Is ‘Cuckoo’ a mind-bending masterpiece or just a confusing cluck-fest? Are they the crazy ones for watching it—or are you for listening to them chirp about it? Join the guys as they try to untangle this twisted tale, armed with nothing but popcorn and questionable bird puns. As always, they run down the big releases on Physical Media, where they tell you which shiny discs are worth adding to your nest egg. Then, they've got the Viper Video Pick of the Week, where they dig deep into the video store archives to find a hidden "gem" and the Streaming Pick of the Week for those of you who don't like to stretch your wings by ever leaving the house. And of course, they can’t wrap things up without a round of Call It!, the game where the boys make impossible movie choices and regret them immediately. Probably. The First Run —because someone’s gotta do it first, and it might as well be us. 00:00-15:22: Intro/ Cuckoo 15:23-28:17: Physical Media Picks 28:18-45:23: Call It! 45:24-46:59: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 09, 2024
TFR Ep. 720: Trap, Rotten Tomatoes Score Game
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt return to Pennsylvania and the M Knight Shyamalan universe with ‘Trap’. The Hartnett resurgence continues, but is the film with walking into? a trap. Get it? There’s the diabolical rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by playing the annual RT Score game! Who will come out on top and win the coveted AMC gift card?!? All that and more on another star-studded episode of The First Run! 00:00-13:14: Intro/Trap 13:15-25:16: Physical Media Picks 25:17-46:05: Rotten Tomatoes Score Game 46:06-49:12: Opera/Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 02, 2024
TFR Ep. 719: Deadpool & Wolverine, SDCC Wrap Up, Rank ‘Em: Fox X Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take one last spin around the block with the Fox Marvel Films, an inconsistent friend that delighted and hurt is in equal measure. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman show you what true besties look like with Deadpool and Wolverine. They give you the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week then wrap it all up with a run down of San Diego ComiCon and give you the definitive ranking of the Fox X Films. 00:00-21:51: Intro/Deadpool and Wolverine 21:52-27:42: Physical Media Picks 27:43-53:01: SDCC Discussion/Ranking the Fox X Films 56:02-54:42: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 26, 2024
TFR Ep. 718: Twisters, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt batten down the hatches and prepare for the worst. It’s ’Twisters’ week, featuring ‘Twisters’! This time, it’s Glen Powell and a potentially catatonic Daisy Edgar Jones chasing them tornadoes. Does this retooling of a beloved 90’s disaster film spin is all up with excitement? There’s the pressure-dropping rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris, play a rootin’ tootin’ varmit shootin’ round of Who Dat!?! Now let’s wrassle us up a tornado! 00:00-14:47: Intro/Twisters 14:48-26:25: Physical Media Picks 28:38-49:36: Who Dat?!? 49:37-52:04: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 19, 2024
TFR Ep. 717: Longlegs, 5 Favorite Movie Serial Killers
This week on The First Run, it's time for another wide theatrical Nic Cage release! Chris and Matt catch up with the man's latest unhinged performance with Oz Perkins’ ‘Longlegs’. Promoted as the scariest movie of the decade, but what about just 100 minutes of smothering dread? Then there’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with their Top 5 Serial Killers in Film. They stress "in film".... they aren't changing formats to true crime. 00:00-17:17: Intro/Longlegs 17:18-23:48: Physical Media Picks 23:49-37:42: Top 5 Movie Serial Killers 37:43-39:09: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 12, 2024
TFR Ep. 716: Maxxxine, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, 5 Most Anticipated Films Left in 2024
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt play the shortest game of 6 Degrees of Kevin Bacon ever with a discussion of Ti West’s trilogy capper, ‘MaXXXine’. Mia Goth returns to wreak havoc in 1980’s LA in her pursuit of stardom, regardless of you gets in her way. Then it’s the neon-drenched review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. But that’s not all, as Matt and Chris fire up the synthesizer and gas up their Chevy Nova. It’s time for one more road trip to Beverly Hills with ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’. It’s been 37 years since the last installment. Does Axel have anything left in the tank? Finally, Chris and Matt close out the show by sharing their 5 Most Anticipated Films For The Rest Of 2024. 00:00-12:21: Intro/MaXXXine 12:22-20:16: Physical Media Picks 20:17-29:50: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F 29:51-46:22: 5 Most Anticipated Films Left in 2024 46:23-48:05: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 05, 2024
TFR Ep. 715: Kinds Of Kindness, 5 Best Films of 2024 (So Far)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the latest from Yorgos Lanthimos, the hardest working man in show business, with the unexpected anthology film, ‘Kinds Of Kindness’. There’s the love-struck break down of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Films of 2024...so far! 00:00-16:47: Kinds of Kindness 16:48-26:57: Physical Media Picks 26:58-40:09: Best of 2024 So Far 40:10-42:50: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 28, 2024
TFR Ep. 714: Thelma, 5 Favorite Donald Sutherland Perfomances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the high octane action thriller you never saw coming with ‘Thelma’. June Squibb finally lands the top of the call sheet at the tender age of 94. Think of it as Hot Fuzz for The Villages. Then there’s the non-stop thrill ride that is the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Steaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the program by honoring one of the greats with their 5 Favorite Donald Sutherland performances. 00:00-12:01: Intro/Thelma 12:02-19:02: Physical Media Picks 19:03-34:30: 5 Favorite Donald Sutherland Performances 34:31-36:10: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 21, 2024
TFR Ep. 713: Inside Out 2, 5 Favorite Family Films
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris get in touch with their feelings with the latest from Pixar with, ‘Inside Out 2’. As always, there’s the joy-inducing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it up the big show with their Top 5 Family Films. Will Chris squeeze in ‘Something Wicked This Way Comes’ again?!? 00:00-12:44: Intro/Inside Out 2 12:45-26:04: Physical Media Picks 26:05-41:06: Top 5 Family Films 41:07-42:52: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 14, 2024
TFR Ep. 712: Hitman, The Watchers, 5 Favorite Unusual Rom-Coms
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt have just had enough of each other. And funnily enough, both decide to engage with Richard Linklater’s ‘Hitman’, featuring up and coming (and just leaning over the Tatumline) leading man, Glen Powell. Chris shares his thoughts, and fears, regarding the debut feature by Ishana Night Shymalan with, ‘The Watchers’. Then it’s on to the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris close out the show with their 5 Favorite Offbeat Rom Coms. 00:00-25:43: Intro/Hitman 25:44-33:44: Physical Media Picks 33:45-37:54: The Watchers 37:55-52:32: Unusual Rom-Coms 52:33-53:51: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 07, 2024
TFR Ep. 711: In A Violent Nature, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt do their best menacing slow walk as they check out ‘In A Violent Nature’, the latest horror film to flip the horror script by asking "What if we just follow the bad guy?" They give you the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it up by trying on different personalities and answering some questions with Who Dat? In A Violent Nature interview. Matt Zoller Seitz article. 00:00-12:05: Intro/In a Violent Nature 12:06-22:46: Physical Media Picks 22:47-54:17: Who Dat? 54:18-56:34: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 31, 2024
TFR Ep. 710: Furiosa, Rank ‘Em: Mad Max Franchise
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt rev their engines and prep for another beautiful day with the Mad Max Fury Road prequel, ‘Furiosa’. It’s a dive into the back story of Fury Road’s ultimate bad ass, with an actor swap out from Charlize Theron to Anya Taylor-Joy. So is this entry also all shiny and chrome? Then the guys bear witness to the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the big show by ranking the Mad Max films. So zoom zoom! Here we go! 00:00-16:12: Intro/Furiosa 16:13-23:40: Physical Media Picks 23:41-42:14: Rank ‘Em: Mad Max 42:15-44:28: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 24, 2024
TFR Ep. 709: I Saw The TV Glow, 5 Favorite Nostalgia Shows
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris dip their toes into the nostalgia pool and let the capital M Metaphor wash over them with the latest from A24, ‘I Saw the TV Glow’. As always they give a run down of the big releases on physical media, the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the wrap up it all give you a glimpse into what gives them the warm and fuzzies with their Top 5 Nostalgia TV Shows. 00:00-17:15: Intro/I Saw the TV Glow 17:16-24:59: Physical Media Picks of the Week 25:00-53:14: Top 5 Nostalgia Shows 53:15-55:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 17, 2024
TFR Ep. 708: Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes, 5 Favorite 4th Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt travel into the Planet of the Apes future, many generations in the future to be exact, to see the beginning of a new trilogy with, ‘Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes’. Gone is Caesar and…everyone else. Are we ready for the next chapter? Do we care? Next is the banana filled festival that is the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite 4th Films! So take a listen to the latest episode while grooming your favorite apes! 00:00-12:38: Intro/Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes 12:39- 22:59: Physical Media Picks 23:00-38:03: 5 Favorite 4th Films 38:04-39:09: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 10, 2024
TFR Ep. 707: The Fall Guy, 5 Favorite 80’s Shows Needed A Movie Remake
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt jump into their 1980 GMC K25 and do some donuts on the beach with Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt in ‘The Fall Guy’. The guys run down the big releases on physical media, featuring the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then they get creatively bankrupt and give Jimmy Hollywood some ideas with a rundown of their Top 5 80's Shows that Should be Made into Movies. 00:00-17:35: Intro/The Fall Guy 17:36-25:49: Physical Media Picks 25:50-46:17: Top 5 80's Shows that Should Get the Big Screen Treatment 46:18-49:10: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 03, 2024
TFR Ep. 706: Boy Kills Word, Late Night With The Devil, Call It!
This week on The First Run, since everyone is talking about ‘Challengers’, Chris and Matt watched ‘Boy Kills World’. Genre films are the bread and butter of The First Run, and no amount of Zendaya led love triangles and threesomes will keep them from their revenge-action films. Was there even an Eiffel Tower in ‘Challengers’? Don’t waste anyone’s time. Hooked by the H. Jon Benjamin narration, Is there enough butt-kicking to save the day? Then it’s on to the IFC/Shudder original, ‘Late Night With The Devil’. David Dastmalchian leads the viral hit about a struggling talkshow that tries to boost ratings by interviewing an actual possessed kid. What could possibly go wrong? There’s abs-packed rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Viper Video Picks of the Week, AND the return this week of the Straight to DVD Pick of the Week. Finally Matt and Chris close out the show with a hot and spicy round of ‘Call It!’. 00:00-12:07: Intro/Boy Kill’s World 12:08-22:06: Physical Media Picks 22:07-35:48: Late Night With The Devil 35:49-53:46: Call It! 53:47-56:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 26, 2024
TFR Ep. 705: Abigail, Rebel Moon: The Scargiver, 5 Favorite Movie Traitors
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt bust out the garlic and crosses as they check out ‘Abigail’, a treatise in how terrifying precocious children can be. Then they slog into the Zack Snyder muck once more so you don't have to with ‘Rebel Moon: The Scargiver’. They'll give you the rundown on the big physical media releases, the Viper Video and Streaming Picks of the week then they wrap it all up with their favorite untrustworthy characters with the Top 5 Traitors in Film. 00:00-10:37: Intro/Abigail 10:38-23:25: Physical Media Picks 23:26-42:48: Rebel Moon:The Scargiver 42:49-58:13: Top 5 Traitors In Film 58:14-1:00:00: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 19, 2024
TFR Ep. 704: Civil War, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt embed themselves in Alex Garland’s latest (and final?) directorial effort, ‘Civil War’. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen in the United States if society finally broke down over which way the toilet paper should be hung. Or maybe it was if Chicago pizza is real pizza? Something bad, I’m sure. There’s the crack-shot rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with a round of What Are The Odds, featuring Tarantino, Frank Drebin, Phantom Menaces, and more! 00:00-21:44: Intro/Civil War 21:45-32:47: Physical Media Picks 32:48-54:44: What Are The Odds?!? 54:45-56:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 12, 2024
TFR Ep. 703: The First Omen, Immaculate, 5 Favorite Horror Prequels
How do you feel about nuns in peril? Well, if you're for it, then the guys have a treat for you. This week, Chris and Matt do a deep dive into the Nunsploitation renaissance of 2024 with ‘The First Omen’ and ‘Immaculate’. They give you the rundown of the big releases on Physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with their Top 5 Horror Prequels. How has there not been a Howling prequel? 00:00-15:09: The First Omen 15:10-22:14: Physical Media Picks 22:15-29:45: Immaculate 29:46-48:40: Top 5 Horror Prequels 48:41-51:19: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 05, 2024
TFR Ep. 702: Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt book a round trip back to Hollow Earth to check in on our good buddy, King Kong. Nope, sorry. Just Kong. It’s ‘Godzilla X Kong: New Empire’. Not only do we get a big box full of Kong, we get a bunch more giant apes, a baby Kong, and an ancient ice breathing titan. And if we’re lucky, maybe Godzilla will show up too. From there it’s on to the big releases in Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight To DVD Picks of the Week! There’s a quick discussion of the Aliens 4k disc too! Then Matt and Chris wrap up show with the harrowing atomic breath worthy fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs. Featuring the latest news about Scream, the MCU, and Chris and Matt go down a rabbit hole over what qualifies as sci-fi or not. It’s a doozy, folks! 00:00-17:20: Intro/Godzilla x Kong: New Empire 17:21-25:54: Physical Media Picks 25:55-51:31: TFR Libs 51:32-54:09: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 29, 2024
TFR Ep. 701: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Road House, 2024 Summer Bracket
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt sign out their weird, grumpy uncles from the assisted living home for yet another trip to the paranormal well with ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’. Does the gang still pack an unlicensed nuclear accelerator punch? Then Matt and Chris ask the age-old question “Can you improve upon B-Movie perfection?” with the latest product from the strip mining of the 80’s, ‘Road House’. There’s the gnarly takedown of the big releases in Physical Media, featuring the Straight-To-DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Chris and Matt make their own version of what all the cool kids are doing in March with the annual First Run Summer Movie Bracket. Though Chris screws up and confuses ‘Sting’ with ‘Longlegs’. Idiot. 00:00-18:15: Intro/Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 18:16-24:40: Physical Media/Straight to DVD/Streaming Pick of the Week 24:41-38:14: Road House ’24 38:15-56:58 Summer Movie Bracket 56:59-58:51: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey TFR Summer Bracket [Blank] TFR Summer Bracket [Scalzo] TFR Summer Bracket [Matt]
Fri, March 22, 2024
TFR Ep. 700: Love Lies Bleeding, Dead Alive, 5 Favorite Movies Since Ep. 600
Well, well, well. It’s our big 700th episode extravaganza, that we’ll be treating like every other episode. This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check back into the Rose Glass hotel for more raw and earnest filmmaking. This time out, it’s Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian in the lesbian crime thriller, ‘Love Lies Bleeding’. Then it’s a blast from the past. One of the more influential horror films in Chris’ development, it’s Peter Jackson romance slpatter-fest mashup, ‘Braindead’ or how it’s known here in the states, ‘Dead Alive’. There’s the bicep flexing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap the big anniversary show with their 5 Favorite Films Since Episode 600, as a minor announcement. So let’s go kick some ass for the lord. 00:00-14:12: Intro/Love Lies Bleeding 14:13-35:38: Physical Media Picks, Crow & Alien Romulus Trailers, & More 35:39-45:40: Braindead (Dead Alive) 45:41-1:05:59: 5 Favorite Films Since Episode 600 1:06:00-1:10:39: Wrap Up & Announcement Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 15, 2024
TFR Ep. 699: Imaginary, Damsel, 2024 Oscars Wrap Up
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out one of two 2024 films about imaginary friends. First up, it’s the latest Blumhouse horror joint, ‘Imaginary’. What happens if your imaginary friend turns out to be a jerk? Two films about imaginary friends in a single year doesn’t sound like a lot but it’s weird that it happened. Then they check out the latest product of Millie Bobbie Browns indentured servant contract with Netflix, ‘Damsel’. As always there’s the big release on physical media, the straight to dvd and streaming picks of the week. Then Matt and Chris are joined by a special guest to wrap this all up with a discussion of all the happenings at the 2024 Oscars and a ScreenRun announcement! I’m not going to give anything away about that thing that happened. You know the one. 00:00-11:34: Intro/Imaginary 11:35-20:50: Physical Media Picks 20:51-29:24: Damsel 29:25-51:57: 2024 Oscar Wrap-Up 52:58-54:26: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 08, 2024
TFR Ep. 698: Dune Part II, Lisa Frankenstein, 2024 Oscars Predictions
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt saddle up a grand poppa Sandworm and ride into Dune-iverse with Dune Part 2. While it’s Christmas morning for Matt, after Part 1, Chris felt like he needed to see Part 2 in order to get the whole experience. Whelp, swing and a miss on that one. As we’re clearly in the middle of a larger story, how does Dune Part 2 measure up against the great second films in sci-fi cinematic history? Or should Chris cut the spice intake and chill a bit. Then it’s on to the comedy/horror mash up, ‘Lisa Frankenstein’. Does Zelda Williams’ directorial debut spark to life? There’s spice-y rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris help you fill out your Oscars bracket with their picks that will win and which picks deserve to win. So fire up your 5 layer bean dip as you prep your Oscars Party. It’s The First Run! 00:00-21:23: Intro/Dune Part 2 21:24-30:30: Physical Media Picks 30:31-37:59: Lisa Frankenstein 38:00-52:44: 2024 Oscars Picks 52:45-53:58: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 01, 2024
TFR Ep. 697: Drive Away Dolls, Dream Scenario, 5 Favorite Coen Bros. Characters
This week on The First Run, Matt’s been bitten by a Sumatran Rat Monkey and is feeling a bit under the weather, but we shall soldier on! First up, it’s Ethan Coen’s solo debut, ‘Drive Away Dolls’, featuring Margaret Qualley and Geraldine Viswanathan as two lesbian friends on a road trip that take a turn south, literally and figuratively. Then the Nic Cage-essiance continues with ‘Dream Scenario’. Or does it? There’s the briefcase full of Physical Media Picks, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Coen Brothers Characters. So settle in, grab a pack of Huggies, and listen to another rowdy episode of The First Run. At least until Matt goes full zombie mode. 00:00-12:32: Intro/Drive Away Dolls 12:33-22:06: Physical Media Picks 22:07-31:56: Dream Scenario 31:57-48:26: 5 Favorite Coen Brothers Characters 48:27-51:04: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey.
Fri, February 23, 2024
TFR Ep. 696: Madame Web, Riki Oh: The Story Of Ricky, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, ‘Madame Web’ breaks a Sony/MCU record. But not one of the good ones. Could the critics be wrong and just simply unable to appreciate a fun action film? Or is it just another example of ‘go woke, go broke’?!? Can Dakota Johnson finally cross the Tatum Line for Chris? Then, as a potential welcome respite, Matt and Chris partake in some fine, elegant filmmaking with ‘Riki-Oh: The Story Of Ricki’. After a decade of Chris trying to catch up with the Chinese Martial Arts Splatter-fest. Was it worth the wait? There’s head-crushing review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Chris and Matt then close out the show with a dreamy round of everyone’s favorite role-playing game, ‘Who Dat’. So buckle up, become one with the web of life, and settle in for another spine-tingling episode of The First Run. 00:00-21:19: Intro/Madame Web 21:20-30:14: Physical Media Picks 30:15-38:11: Riki-Oh: The Story Of Ricky 38:12-55:22: Who Dat?!? 55:23-56:12: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 16, 2024
TFR Ep. 695: Out Of Darkness, The Beekeeper, 5 Favorite Performances Of 2023
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt head back to the Stone Age and huddle closer to the flames to ward against the terrors of the night with ‘Out of Darkness’. Then they watch Jason Statham be the Stathamest Statham he can be as he bucks against type as a man who’s the best at what he does but what he does isn’t very nice in ‘The Beekeeper’. As always they give you the big releases on physical media, the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then they wrap all this up with their Five Favorite Performances of 2023. 00:00-13:39: Out of Darkness 13:40-25:49: Physical Media Picks 25:50-35:42: The Beekeeper 35:43-48:46: Top 5 Performances Of 2023 48:47-50:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 09, 2024
TFR Ep. 694: Argylle, Suitable Flesh, 10 Favorite Films Of 2023: 5-1
Let’s try and break into the algorithm and go viral. At the Grammy’s this past Sunday, Tay-tay herself, MISS Taylor Swift announced her new album, ‘The Tortured Poets Department’, dropping April 19th. Throughout the show, Matt and I will be dropping tidbits about the new album with a full discussion its production and an early listen to the first single, her cover of Tracy Chapman’s Turn Right Back Around. There also by some brief talk about the latest film from the twisted mind of Matthew Vaughn, ‘Argyle’, a different kind of possession film with the Shudder original ‘Suitable Flesh’. We keep cruising, because we can’t stop, won’t stop movin’ as we reveal the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out 2023 with their 5 Favorite Films of the year, 2023. So Just think, while you've been gettin' down and out about the liars and the dirty, dirty cheats of the world, You could've been gettin' down to this sick beat. It’s another episode of The First Run. 00:00-13:14: Intro/Argylle 13:15-26:07: Physical Media Picks/MegaCon 26:08-32:28: Suitable Flesh 32:29-47:29: 10 Favorite Films Of 2023: 5-1 47:30-49:44: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 02, 2024
TFR Ep. 693: The Zone Of Interest, Nyad, 10 Favorite Films Of 2023: 10-6
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt take a leisurely trip to the bucolic Polish countryside where everything is totally normal and nothing is out of place with The Zone of Interest. Then they shift gears to take in some mom-tainment for a change with the swimming biopic Nyad. They run down the big releases on physical media, give you their straight-to-DVD and streaming picks of the week then wrap it all up with the bottom half of their favorite films of 2023. 00:00-15:07: The Zone Of Interest 15:08-23:14: Physical Media Picks 23:15-34:38: Nyad 34:39-50:13: 10-6 Favorites of 2023 50:14-53:04 : Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford Bey
Fri, January 26, 2024
TFR Ep. 692: American Fiction, Sound Of Freedom, 2024 Oscar Noms
This week on The First Run, it’s primary night! Can Nikki Haley topple Donald Trump and steal a primary win? Can Joe Biden win the state without even being on the ballot? Will Ron DeSantis now feel comfortable removing the lifts from his cowboy rasslin’ boots? And after that Chris and Matt are going to discuss Cord Jefferson’s ‘American Fiction’, nominated for 5 Oscars, including Best Picture! Then it’s on to the rallying cry film that’s got all the Q’Anon folks all foamed up in the jammies, It’s crazy Jim Caviezel and ‘Sound Of Freedom’! There’s the Granite State rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris discuss this year’s Oscar Noms. It’s all the surprises, snubs, and rubs! Matt already furiously texted me half a dozen times about ‘Saltburn’. 00:00-14:54: Intro/American Fiction 14:55-22:39: Physical Media 22:40-36:50: Sound Of Freedom 36:51-53:12: 2024 Oscar Noms 53:13-55:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 19, 2024
TFR Ep. 691: The Iron Claw, Past Lives, Call It!
This week on The First Run, it’s all A24 all the time. First up is the tragic story of the Von Erich wrestling family in Sean Durkin’s ‘The Iron Claw’. Then the Matt and Chris delve into the relationship between two friends as their lives diverge across the decades with Celine Song’s ‘Past Lives’. As always, they bring you the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Chris and Matt wrap it all up with another round of Call It! What horrible choices are presented this time and how many involve Arnold Schwarzenegger? 00:00-18:39: Intro/The Iron Claw 18:40-25:21: Physical Media Picks 25:22-44:12: Past Lives 44:13-1:01:30: Call It! 1:01:31-1:03:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 12, 2024
TFR Ep. 690: Ferrari, Maestro, 5 Other Things We Watched In 2023
This week on The First Run, it’s a Matt Howell special! It’s biopic week! We’re only missing horror comedies or plays to push Matt over the top. First up, Michael Mann’s ‘Ferrari’, featuring Adam Driver as the titular spaghetti loving talking car, Ferrari. Then Bradley Cooper’s passion project, ‘Maestro’, featuring the life and times of potentially America’s greatest composer, Leonard Bernstein. Cooper co-writes, directs, and stars as the titular Maestro, Lenny Bing-bongs! There’s the mouthwatering rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show discussing 5 other things we enjoyed from 2023 that didn’t make the show. 00:00-13:55: Intro/Ferrari 13:56-20:40: Physical Media Picks 20:41-29:25: Maestro 29:26-50:19: 5 Other Things We Watched In 2023 50:20-53:18: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 05, 2024
TFR Ep. 689: Poor Things, Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom, Rebel Moon, 2024 Preview
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris review three films for you! Lord help us. First up is the difficult to describe critical darling ‘Poor Things’, starring Emma Stone. Is it delightfully weird, a little too self-satisfied with its indulgences, or maybe it’s both? Then we check out ‘Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom’, the death rattle of the often disappointing DCEU. Finally, we’ll visit our ol pal Zack Snyder in his Star Wars-40k-Dune mish-mash ‘Rebel Moon: Child of Fire’. As always, there's the big releases on physical media, the streaming and straight-to-dvd picks of the week and then the guys close out the show with their 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2024. 00:00-17:40: Intro/Poor Things 17:41-36:51: Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom 36:52-44:46: Physical Media Picks 44:47-56:14: Rebel Moon: Child of Fire 56:15-1:19:49: Most Anticipated Films of 2024 1:19:50-1:23:33: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 29, 2023
TFR Sick Day
Sadly, Chris is on the injured list with a bad head cold and no voice. So enjoy this brand new opening from Matt and a re-broadcast of our 2023 Preview featuring the 10 films Chris and Matt were most excited about. How did that end up shaking out…? Don’t worry, the guys will be back next week with an extra super-sized gorgeous episode featuring ‘Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom’, ‘Poor Things’, ‘Rebel Moon Part 1: A Child Of Fire’, and the 2024 Preview! Holy cats that’ll be fun! See you next week!
Fri, December 22, 2023
TFR Ep. 688: Leave The World Behind, May December, Eileen, Christmas Playlist
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt fire up the ol’ Netflix engine to discuss a pair of…interesting films. First up, the Obama’s produced ‘Leave The World Behind’. Sam Esmail’s adaptation of the book brings together a great cast as they deal with something kind of potentially cataclysmic event. Or not? Maybe? Then it’s on to Todd Haynes’ latest, ‘May December’, featuring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore. Portman is an actress spending time with Moore as she’s set to portray her in a tv movie and hijinks ensue. There’s the holly AND jolly rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris share their perfect Christmas playlists, just for you! 00:00-11:20: Leave the World Behind 11:21-16:13: Eileen 16:14-24:30: Physical Media Picks 24:31-35:22: May December 35:23-50:00: Holiday Playlist 50:01-54:55: Wrap-Up Scalzo’s Holiday Playlist Matt’s Holiday Playlist Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 15, 2023
TFR Ep. 687: The Boy And The Heron, The Holdovers, Rolling Stones’ 50 Greatest Action Movies
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt check out the latest and supposedly last film by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, ‘The Boy And The Heron’. Then it’s time to check in on winter break with Alexander Payne’s reunion with Paul Giamatti in, ‘The Holdovers’. There’s the non-denominational review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with…something to do with Rolling Stones Top 50 Action Movies of All Time list. Righteous indignation probably. 00:00-16:26: Intro/The Boy And The Heron 16:27-26:37: Physical Media Picks 26:38-39:30: The Holdovers 39:31-59:47: Rolling Stones’ 50 Greatest Action Movies 59:48-1:00:53: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 08, 2023
TFR Ep. 686: Godzilla Minus One, Silent Night, It’s A Wonderful Knife, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt rejoice in the return of the OG Kaiju, it’s ‘Godzilla: Minus One’! We’re back in post-war Japan, and Big G’s ready to tear stuff up. But instead of being an allegory for post atom bomb destruction, now we’re focusing on the people at ground level. Expanding the human side of the story is a gamble. Is there enough Godzilla smash though…? Then the guys turn to Shudder for a horror spin on one of Chris’ favorites, ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ with, ‘It’s A Wonderful Knife’! We’ll have to see if this is as good an idea as Ted Turner colorizing the original. There’s the holly decked rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show and unwrap another round of ‘What Are The Odds’! 00:00-16:59: Intro/Godzilla Minus One 17:00-20:34: Silent Night (2023) 20:35-32:50: Physical Media Picks 32:51-40:31: It’s A Wonderful Knife 40:32-1:04:13: What Are The Odds?!? 1:04:14-1:07:25: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 01, 2023
TFR Ep. 685: Napoleon, Saltburn, 2023 Holiday Gift Guide
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with Sir Ridley Scott and his irrepressible English hatred of the French with the historical spectacle, ‘Napoleon’. Then they check out the love child of Call Me by Your Name and The Talented Mr Ripley with ‘Saltburn’, the latest from writer/director Emerald Fennell of ‘Promising Young Woman’ fame and the reason Chris was so insistent to see it. As always, there’s the breakdown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then it’s time for the…dear Lord…holiday gift guide for the movie lover in your life. So let’s grease up the guillotine and get this show on the road! 00:00-17:09: Napoleon 17:10-27:09: Physical Media Picks 27:10-38:28: Saltburn 38:29-55:07: Holiday Gift Guide 55:08-59:24: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Thu, November 23, 2023
TFR Ep. 684: Thanksgiving, The Marvels, 5 Favorite 80’s Slashers
We’re early! Happy Thanksgiving! This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt fire up the oven, mash the potatoes, un-can the cranberries, and whatever else has to be done to prepare for Eli Roth’s ‘Thanksgiving’. How does the latest expansion of the Grindhouse trailers hold up? Then it’s the latest (and greatest?) film in the MCU, this time it’s ‘The Marvels’! Captain Marvel, Captain Marvel, and Ms. Marvel team up to stop the Kree from devasting the galaxy. And maybe an X-Man or 2 may show up to tease us with the existence of mutants yet again. There’s the all the fixins’ associated with the big releases on Physical, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Slasher Villains. So sharpen that carving knife and prepare for your Uncle’s crazy conspiracy theories. It’s another gravy covered episode of The First Run! 00:00-11:37: Intro/Thanksgiving 11:38-23:26: Physical Media Picks 23:27-38:26: The Marvels 38:27-53:24: 5 Favorite 80’s Slashers 53:25-55:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 17, 2023
TFR Ep. 683: The Killer, Bottoms, 5 Favorite Criterion Releases
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt discuss David Fincher’s latest cinematic tryst with Netflix as he returns to his roots with his latest, ‘The Killer. Then Matt gives into Chris and checks out ‘Bottoms’, which attempts to answer the question “Can movie teenage lesbians be creepy hornballs too?” They’re sure you’ll be shocked by the answer. They run down the big Physical Media releases of the Week to get you pumped for Black Friday, give you the Streaming and Straight to DVD picks of the week, then wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Criterion Releases. So let’s take a breath and stick to the plan. It’s another thrill-packed episode of The First Run! 00:00-18:35: Intro/The Killer 18:36-35:30: Physical Media Picks/Chris meets the Shat Man 35:31-44:30: Bottoms 44:31-59:25: 5 Favorite Criterion Releases 59:26-1:00:20: Wrap-up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 10, 2023
TFR Ep. 682: Anatomy Of A Fall, A Haunting In Venice, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, it’s people falling out of buildings to their doom week on the big show. First up, Chris and Matt discuss this year’s Palm d’Or winner, ‘Anatomy Of A Fall’, a court room drama that is praised for its standout performance by Sandra Hüller as a woman accused of killing her husband. Did she? Didn’t she? Does it matter? Then Chris gets his Poirot itch scratched as Branagh returns to direct and star in ‘A Haunting In Venice’. After an okay first film, a dull second, is this the end of the gondola for Branagh’s series? There’s the gravity-defying review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show by playing another round of everyone’s favorite fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs, featuring Timothy Chalamet, David Fincher, and more! 00:00-13:23: Intro/ Anatomy Of A Fall 13:24-20:47: Physical Media Picks 20:48-28:20: A Haunting In Venice 28:21-45:36: TFR Libs 45:37-46:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 03, 2023
TFR Ep. 681: Five Nights At Freddy’s, No Hard Feelings, 5 Gateway Horror Films
This week on The First Run, your ancient hosts, Chris and Matt, attempt connect with their inner Zoomer child and answer the question “What if Chuck E. Cheese was a homicidal maniac?” when they check out ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’. Then the guys fill the gaping raunchy sex comedy hole in their lives with Jennifer Lawrence and ‘No Hard Feelings’. As always there’s the stuffed crust pizza level of awesome that is the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris give you their picks on how to ease into this whole horror fandom thing with 5 Gateway Horror Recommendations. So pop yourself some corn, dim the lights, and settle in for another wonderful program! 00:00-17:23: Five Nights At Freddy’s 17:24-28:43: Physical Media Picks 28:44-36:33: No Hard Feelings 36:34-57:45: 5 Gateway Horror Recommendations 57:46-1:01:58: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 27, 2023
TFR Ep. 680: Killers Of The Flower Moon, Dark Harvest, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt buckle in for Martin Scorsese’s ‘Killers Of The Flower Moon’. Do you enjoy sprawling epics revealing truths about our country’s past, and perhaps ourselves? Or are you complaining about its three and half hour run time? Do you consider Scorsese’s films like going to the DMV? Are you a jerk? Do you wonder if you’re a jerk? By the end of the show, you’ll know. Then, is the dearth of haunted scarecrows movies over? It’s ‘Dark Harvest’! There’s the spine-tingling rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with a round of your favorite role-playing game, ‘Who Dat?!?’. Get some talcum powder in the rubber suit. Turn down the lights, and let the latest episode just wash over you, fellow non-jerks! BJ Colengelo’s Lily Gladstone article. 00:00-32:30: Intro/Killers Of The Flower Moon 32:31-43:30: Physical Media Picks 43:31-51:13: Dark Harvest 51:14-1:12:08: Who Dat?!? 1:12:09-1:14:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 20, 2023
TFR Ep. 679: V/H/S/85, Anderson/Dahl Netflix Shorts, Call It!
This week on The First Run, dem bois resist the siren song of our future pop overlord and her brainwashed horde by skipping the theater this week. That’s right…Chris and Matt stayed home…and it was glorious. The guys keep spooky season rolling with the latest installment from the V/H/S found footage horror anthology with Shudder’s ‘V/H/S/85’. Then they take a hard right turn into a completely different kind of creepy with four Wes Anderson short films based on the writings of Roald Dahl: ‘The Wonderful Story Of Henry Sugar’, ‘Poison’, ‘The Ratcatcher’, and ‘The Swan’ . As always, they break down the Big Releases on Physical Media, give you the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with a round of their pick ‘em game, Call It! So let’s pop in the tape and adjust the tracking for another episode of The First Run! 00:00-23:24: Intro - V/H/S/85 23:25-38:24: Physical Media Picks 38:25-53:23: Wes Anderson/Roald Dahl Netflix Shorts 53:24-1:08:11: Call It! 1:08:12-1:12:57: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 13, 2023
TFR Ep. 678: The Exorcist: Believer, When Evil Lurks, 5 Favorite Final Girls
This week on The First Run, William Friedkin spins so hard in his grave that he’s able to power the entire eastern seaboard as Chris and Matt discuss David Gordon Green’s latest horror hijacking with ‘The Exorcist: Believer’. Does the legacy sequel possess us all once again with fear and dread? And is that fear and dread more about having to watch the next 2 films in this planned trilogy? Then Chris continues to anger Matt as they discuss ‘When Evil Lurks’, a film that will be on Shudder before you can say, do you smell something rotting? It’s another possession thriller, this time via Argentina. Is it good enough for Matt having to see it in the theaters 2 weeks prior to its streaming premiere? There’s the head-spinning rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite “Final Girls”! Will it feature anyone from a film newer than 2000? Only one way to find out all you ghouls and goblins! 00:00-16:46: Intro/The Exorcist: Believer 16:47-27:49: Physical Media Picks 27:50-36:26: When Evil Lurks 36:27-50:12: 5 Favorite Final Girls 50:13-54:33: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 06, 2023
TFR Ep. 677: The Creator, Saw X, 5 Streaming Horror Picks
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt face one of the great questions of our time…why is sci-fi usually such a bummer? Who knows but they get served up another heaping helping of it via Gareth Edward’s with The Creator. Then, because Chris likes to push Matt ever closer to the edge, the guys burn away another couple hours of their lives with Saw X. Matt refuses to call it Saw 10. They give you a run-down of the big Physical Media releases, give you the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week then kick off spooky season proper with recommendations for horror movies you can stream right now. So let’s get a glimpse of yet another possible doomed future and set up some new gnarly traps! 00:00-17:12: Intro/The Creator 17:13-26:16: Physical Media Picks 26:17-38:07: Saw X 38:08-58:10: 5 Streaming Horror Picks 58:11-1:00:00: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 29, 2023
TFR Ep. 676: It Lives Inside, Stop Making Sense, No One Will Save You, 5 Favorite Live Albums
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take on a couple of horrific nightmares and cut a rug. First out of the gate is an Indian demon tormenting your soul so it’s nice and ripe for consumption in, ‘It Lives Inside’. Then Hulu brings us the gray alien monsters we’ve been waiting for, maybe, with, ‘No One Will Save You’. But it doesn’t end there, oh no! Matt and Chris react to the IMAX 4k Remastered release of Talking Heads’ seminal concert film, ‘Stop Making Sense’. There’s the life-altering run down of the big releases Physical Media Picks of the Week. To close things out, Chris and Matt share their 5 Favorite Live Albums. Will they all be Bowie albums for Chris? And Dave Matthews for Matt? Listen on to find out! 00:00-14:40: Intro/It Lives Inside 14:41-22:46: Stop Making Sense 22:47-34:16: Physical Media Picks 34:17-46:49: No One Will Save You (with spoilers) 46:50-1:10:56: 5 Favorite Live Albums 1:10:57-1:14:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 22, 2023
TFR Ep. 675: The Outlaw Johnny Black, El Conde, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on the First Run, the Chris and Matt call an audible and abandon Agatha Christie for Michael Jai White in ‘The Outlaw Johnny Black’. When one of the most anticipated films of a podcast host becomes an option to cover on said podcast, one takes the opportunity. Then the show slips on down to Chile, eats some hearts, and dusts just a nudge of Wes Anderson whimsy and twee onto the vampire genre with ‘El Conde’. As always, Chris will tell you all about the upcoming releases on Physical Media, give you the Straight To DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap this all up with another edition of What are the Odds?!? So sit back, relax, and get ready for a really ill-advised indigenous wedding with The Outlaw Johnny Black. 00:00-13:39: Intro/The Outlaw Johnny Black 13:40-22:10: Physical Media Picks 22:11-31:42: El Conde 31:43-52:09: What Are The Odds?!? 52:10-55:46: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 15, 2023
TFR Ep. 674: The Nun II, Extraction 2, Call It!
On this episode of The First Run, it’s sequel week! First out of the gate, The Conjuring expanded universe continues with, ‘The Nun II’. Taissa Farmiga returns as the nun on a mission to bring justice to church, exposing its greed, abuses, and hypocrisy…No, that’s not right. Valak the demon returns. Not to be confused with Valek, the Vampire. Taissa is dispatched to end the horrors once again. Then Tyler Rake (Tyler Rake, christ) returns with ‘Extraction 2’. Reuniting the team from the first underwhelming action vehicle where the star…dies? Zombie Rake is brought back to extract someone new and this time, it’s personal! There’s the terrifying, yet bicep pumping rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with a death-defying round of Call It featuring all your favorite 80’s references Chris can jam into a 15-minute segment! 00:00-15:44: Intro/The Nun II 15:45-24:53: Physical Media Picks 24:54-35:46: Extraction 2 35:47-49:14: Call It! 49:15-51:05: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 08, 2023
TFR Ep. 673: The Equalizer 3, They Cloned Tyrone, 5 Most Anticipated Films Left For 2023
This week on the First Run, your favorite movie bros try to answer the eternal question…”Can Antoine Fuqua make a worthwhile film?” The latest attempt brings Denzel Washington up to bat yet again with ‘The Equalizer 3’. Then Chris and Matt slum it on Netflix with the sci-fi satire ‘They Cloned Tyrone’. There’s the subtly awesome rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight-to-DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris wrap up the show by searching for a diamond in the muck with The First Run’s Most Anticipated Films for the Rest of 2023. So let’s give you 9 seconds to start another episode of The First Run. 00:00-12:42: Intro/The Equalizer 3 12:43-22:31: Physical Media Picks 22:32-30:00: They Cloned Tyrone 30:01-45:29: Most Anticipated Films for the Rest of 2023 45:30-47:41: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 01, 2023
TFR Ep. 672: Beau Is Afraid, The Pope’s Exorcist, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt finally catch up with Ari Aster’s ‘Beau Is Afraid’. It’s a sprawling tale of one man’s journey to visit his mother, with all the accompanying insanity, violence, humor, and just a dusting of an Elektra Complex, all led my Joaquin Phoenix. Clocking in at a meager 3 hours, is it the (Insert genre here) we’ve been waiting for? Or a bloated mess? Then as ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ mania is sweeping the country, we discuss ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’. It’s the number 1 movie on Netflix and DEMANDS to be seen and discussed, guaranteed to have a legacy lasting generations. Or not. There’s the truly loving rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with a round of the fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs. This round features Dune 2, Highlander, and more! The power of Moms compels you to listen to the latest episode of The First Run! Note: Chris and Matt forget about Killers Of The Flower Moon & Poor Things when discussing the remaining 2023 releases like a couple of dummies. 00:00-12:26: Intro/Beau Is Afraid 12:27-19:49: Physical Media Picks 19:50-29:13: The Pope’s Exorcist 29:14-49:13: TFR Libs 49:14-50:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 25, 2023
TFR Ep. 671: Blue Beetle, 5 Favorite Legacy Comic Book Characters
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris bear witness to the last desperate gasps before the death rattle of the DCEU with ‘Blue Beetle’. Is this the definitive entry of the DCEU, the yardstick in which all the other entries are measured against? Maybe, maybe not, who gives a shit at this point. As always, they run down the big releases on physical media, give you their straight to dvd and streaming picks of the week then wrap up this episode with their five favorite legacy superheroes. It’ll make sense at the time, I promise. Let’s fire up the DCEU franchise for its penultimate entry with Blue Beetle. 00:00-17:18: Intro/Blue Beetle 17:19-30:15: Physical Media Picks 30:16-52:24: Top 5 Legacy Comic Book Characters 52:25-53:39: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 18, 2023
TFR Ep. 670: The Last Voyage Of The Demeter, TMNT: Mutant Mayhem, 5 Favorite Movie Vampires
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt engage with the hypothesis that asks, can you make a whole movie out of one chapter of a book? It’s a moment in time for the lord of the undead. Ahoy their matey’s! We gots us a Dracula! It’s ‘The Last Voyage Of The Demeter’! Then there’s another animated movie based on a beloved property. This time it’s the ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’! The boys are back in town with an animated reboot. Is 2D animation back, baby? There’s the garlic loving rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with their 5 Favorite Movie Vampires. So come on in, all you ghouls and gals! It’s another episode of The First Run, packed the gills with Monster and Mutants! 00:00-15:34: Intro/The Last Voyage Of The Demeter 15:35-24:52: Physical Media Picks 24:53-36:28: TMNT: Mutant Mayhem 36:29-52:36: 5 Favorite Movie Vampires 52:37-54:45: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 11, 2023
TFR Ep. 669: Talk To Me, 5 Favorite A24 Releases, Part 2
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt, your curmudgeonly internet uncles, head down under for this year’s scariest movie of all time, ‘Talk To Me’. Should you believe the hype? Does A24 deliver another knock out film? The boys give you their oh-so informed opinions. Then it’s the terrifying, yet adorable run down the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with their definitive personal rankings of the top 5 (maybe 10) films in the A24 catalog. So pop open a Foster’s and watch out for all the deadly wild life, it’s the latest episode of The First Run! 00:00-13:25: Talk To Me 13:26-23:05: Physical Media Picks 23:06-45:40: 5 Favorite A24 Releases, Part 2 45:41-47:09: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 04, 2023
TFR Ep. 668: Barbie, 5 Favorite Movie Tie-In Promotions
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt succumb to the matriarchy and all things capitalism to discuss ‘Barbie’! Greta Gerwig’s big screen anti-man, pro-communism screed is here and is tearing up the charts! Could a movie about a girls’ toy actually be good? And have a little something for the fellas? There’s the pink-alicious rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt & Chris close out the big show by sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Tie-Ins, Promotions, whatever. So let’s all head over to the Malibu dream house and dip our toe-less feet in the pool. It’s Barbie, bitch! 00:00-19:37: Intro/Barbie 19:38-32:26: Physical Media Picks 32:27-50:13: 5 Favorite Movie Tie-In Promotions 50:14-51:35: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 28, 2023
TFR Ep. 667: Oppenheimer, 5 Favorite Christopher Nolan Scenes
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt become Death, the destroyer of (cinematic) worlds with the latest 3 hour spectacle from Christopher Nolan, ‘Oppenheimer’. Matt, for one, is looking forward to wading into historical moral quandaries the guys have no business opining on. And Chris wants to see stuff blowns up real good. After that uplifting discussion, they’ll give you the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight-to-DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week, then wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite Christopher Nolan Scenes. So let’s push the big red button and hope there isn’t a cascading chain reaction of neutron collisions with the latest episode of The First Run. 00:00-29:33: Intro/Oppenheimer 29:34-41:36: Physical Media Picks 41:37-55:57: 5 Favorite Christopher Nolan Scenes 55:58-58:53: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 21, 2023
TFR Ep. 666: Mission: Impossible: Dead Reckoning: Part 1, 5 Favorite MI Action Set Pieces
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt choose to accept the latest entry in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ franchise, ‘Dead Reckoning, Part 1’. We’re nearing the end of one of the most consistently entertaining action franchises of all time. Are we going out with a bang, or have we lost a step or two. Then there’s the death-defying review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming & Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the non-stop action with their 5 Favorite Mission: Impossible Action scenes! So rev up the car/motorcycle/train/plane of your choice and prepare for more high-flying action with another episode of The First Run! 00:00-18:30: Intro/ Mission: Impossible: Dead Reckoning: Part 1 18:31-27:49: Physical Media Picks 27:50-43:06: 5 Favorite MI Action Set Pieces 43:07-44:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 14, 2023
TFR Ep. 665: Insidious: The Red Door, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt step-up to that crimson door and head into The Further one last time (Maybe? Possibly?) with Patrick Wilson’s directorial debut, ‘Insidious: The Red Door’. As always, there’s the biggest Physical Media Releases of the Week, featuring the Straight-To-DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up this boondoggle with another round of ‘Who Dat’?, a segment whose namesake has drifted beyond the limits of mortal memory. So close your eyes and get ready to like, project into the astral plane man! It’s another episode of The First Run! 00:00-12:00: Insidious: The Red Door 12:01-20:24: Physical Media Picks 20:25-43:57: Who Dat? 43:58-45:06: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 07, 2023
TFR Ep. 665: Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny, 5 Favorite Indy Scenes
On this episode of The First Run, Chris and Matt attempt to turn back the clock one more time as Harrison Ford returns for a final grand adventure in ‘Indiana Jones & The Dial Of Destiny’. Is there any gas left in Indy’s tank? Is why Nazi’s are bad need to be explained? Should we just have let the franchise end with The Last Crusade like we all agreed to back in 1989? There’s the rejuvenating rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming & Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt & Chris close out the show with their 5 Favorite Indiana Jones scenes. So let’s crack that whip one more time! It’s another thrilling episode of The First Run! 00:00-18:54: Intro/Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny 18:55-25:48: Physical Media Picks 25:49-39:24: 5 Favorite Indy Scenes 39:25-41:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 30, 2023
TFR Ep. 663: Asteroid City, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt check the latest quirk fest from Wes Anderson, ‘Asteroid City’. Will it be the delightful deadpan delivery of the ‘Royal Tennenbaums’, or the lifeless deadpan delivery of ‘The Darjeeling Limited’? As always we there’s the thrilling yet contemplative rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then, much to Chris’ delight, we get back to our games with another round of What are the Odds? So let’s tap into our collective ennui with another episode of The First Run! 00:00-17:17: Asteroid City 17:18-23:25: Physical Media/Straight to DVD/Streaming 23:26-53:57: What are the Odds? 53:58-55:22: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 23, 2023
TFR Ep. 662: The Flash, DCEU Snyder-Verse Ranking
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt break the speed of light and enter the Speed Force! The great sorta’ maybe DCEU reset is here with ‘The Flash’! How do you balance the promotion of one of your big summer tent pole films and potentially reboot a cinematic shared universe against its star’s off screen, let’s say “antics”. Will the people come out?!? There’s the affable yet fierce rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by giving you the definitive DCEU Ranking! 00:00-23:26: Intro/The Flash 23:27-31:59: Physical Media Picks 32:00-44:01: DCEU Snyder-Verse Ranking 44:01-44:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Letterboxd: Chris Letterboxd: Matt
Fri, June 16, 2023
TFR Ep. 661: Brooklyn 45, 5 Streaming Horror Picks
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt kick-off their summer experiment and drop down to one film. What does that mean? For one, Matt has to slow the intro down so he doesn’t end before the theme song does. This week, the guys check out the Shudder original, the ghost story Brooklyn 45. As always, there’s the top physical media releases, the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Horror Films on Streaming. That’s right!!! 00:00-13:24: Intro/Brooklyn 45 13:25-27:20: Physical Media Picks 27:21-45:10: 5 Streaming Horror Movie Recommendations 45:11-47:12: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 09, 2023
TFR Ep. 660: Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, The Boogeyman, 5 Favorite Animated Series Theme Songs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt jump into the multiverse AGAIN! This time, it’s parallel universes just chock full of Spider-People. Miles Morales returns, with pretty much every other Spider-Man you can think of in ‘Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse’! The first film was a breath of fresh air in the animated genre. Can the sequel possibly be as enthralling as the original? Can it be better? There’s the web-slinging rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Next up, it’s the Stephen King Adaptation of his short story, ‘The Boogeyman’, which I understand deviates greatly from the source material. Originally destined for Hulu, it was pushed to the theaters after positive screenings. Was that the right call? Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite Animated Series Theme Songs! 00:00-16:07: Intro/ Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse 16:08-24:18: Physical Media Picks 24:19-31:34: The Boogeyman (’23) 31:35-46:59: 5 Favorite Animated Series Theme Songs 47:00-49:54: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 02, 2023
TFR Ep. 659: How To Blow Up A Pipeline, Dead Presidents, Heist Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris join the revolution and get their ecoterrorism on with Daniel Goldhaber’s ‘How to Blow Up A Pipeline’. Can a film ignite a revolution? Then it’s time to put on some corpse paint and wrap up the Heist Marathon with the Hughes Brothers’ ‘Dead Presidents’. As always there’s the dreamlike rundown the physical media releases, with the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris wrap up the show with the Heist Marathon Awards. So let’s sabotage some property with another episode of The First Run! 00:00-17:44: Intro/How to Blow Up A Pipeline 17:45-25:25: Physical Media Picks 25:26-36:22: Dead Presidents 36:23-44:15: Heist Marathon Awards 44:16-46:38: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 26, 2023
TFR Ep. 658: Fast X, Thief, 5 Favorite Movie Families
This week on The First Run, it’s all about family. The always expanding, death means nothing, and neither does physics cinematic exploration of family. It’s Fast X! This time out Dom and the fam are haunted by the consequences of a prior adventure. Consequences that we had no prior knowledge of, like Dom’s brother. Has the Toretto family finally had one too many extravagant films? Are have we finally found Aristotle’s elusive balance? The Heist Marathon continues with Michael Mann’s directorial debut, ‘Heist’, featuring James Caan as master thief you just may be in over his head. But that’s what happens when you go for that one last big score. There’s the scrumptious rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out another exemplary episode by sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Families! 00:00-13:55: Intro/Fast X 13:46-20:54: Fast X Spoilers 20:55-32:39: Physical Media Picks and HBOMax 32:40-44:50: Thief 44:51-58:00: 5 Favorite Movie Families 58:01-1:00:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 19, 2023
TFR Ep. 657: Hypnotic, Dog Day Afternoon, 5 Favorite Ben Affleck Performances
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt check out Hypnotic, a mind control super powers movie that was apparently directed by Robert Rodriguez! They were just as surprised as you were. And even though they had seen the trailer multiple times, they remembered William Fichtner was in this but forgot Ben Affleck is too. That, gentle listeners, is what the book nerds call “foreshadowing.” Then the Heist Marathon slides into the grim and gritty 70’s with Al Pacino in Sidney Lumet’s Dog Day Afternoon. Spoiler alert, Fredo can’t catch a break in this one either. As always, there’s the physical media, straight to dvd and streaming picks of the week. Then they wrap it up with their 5 Favorite Ben Affleck Performances, which Matt didn’t expect to be so difficult for a man with 83 credits on IMDB. 00:00-14:14: Intro/Hypnotic 14:15-19:29: Physical Media Picks 19:30-31:25: Dog Day Afternoon 31:26-44:55: 5 Favorite Ben Affleck Performances 44:56-46:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 12, 2023
TFR Ep. 656: Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3, The Italian Job, 5 DC Casting Calls
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt head back over to Knowhere and catch up with what was once the surprise of the MCU, it’s the ‘Guardians Of The Galaxy, Vol. III’! Promised to be the final film featuring the cast we all know and love, is it a fitting sendoff for the MCU’s endearing outcasts? Then the Heist Marathon continues with the beloved ‘The Italian Job’ featuring Michael Caine. It’s the OG, so no Wahlbergs here. There’s the sweet and engaging rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by revealing their casting choices for the big names in James Gunn’s DCU reboot. Who’s your choices for the trinity? 00:00-22:13: Intro/Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 22:24-30:53: Physical Media Picks 30:54-41:14: The Italian Job (1969) 41:15-1:03:49: DCU Casting Call 1:03:50-1:05:15: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 05, 2023
TFR Ep. 655: Sisu, Rififi, Call It!
This week on the First Run, Matt and Chris demonstrate their force of will by acting rationally in the face of adversity as they watch a Finnish dude brutally murder some Nazis in ‘Sisu’. Then they kick-off their Heist Movie Marathon with the French granddaddy of the genre, ‘Rififi’. There’s the luminescent rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week, plus some bonus physical media talk. Then Matt and Chris wrap this up with everybody’s favorite game of inconsequential Sophie’s choices, Call It! Which Superman film do keep? Which action franchise do you keep? And more! 00:00-14:29: Intro/Sisu 14:30-32:30: Physical Media Picks & Discussion 32:31-41:17: Rififi 41:18-1:02:28: Call It! 1:02:29-1:04:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 28, 2023
TFR Ep. 654: Evil Dead Rise, Ghosted, 5 Favorite Sam Raimi Scenes
This week on The First Run Chris and Matt head out to the cabin one more time…? Nope. It’s off to a soon-to-be condemned building to see what the Khandarian demons have been up to the last few years as A book of the Dead surfaces in rainy Los Angeles and hijinks ensue in ‘Evil Dead Rise’. Does the can’t miss franchise finally miss? Then it’s on to the Apple+ original ‘Ghosted’, featuring Hollywood ‘It’ people Ana De Armas and Chris Evans. It’s a rom-com spy thriller. It’s Chris’ flip-side to Matt’s horror-comedy hate. Knight And Day anyone? Can star wattage outshine potential issues? There’s the never-ending but always entertaining rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt & Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Same Raimi seems that I hope just aren’t all Ash Army of Darkness clips. But they certainly could be…
Fri, April 21, 2023
TFR Ep. 653: Renfield, Holy Spider, 5 Favorite Supporting Characters
This week on The First Run…well, it’s a big milestone folks. This is our 653rd episode. 6. 5. 3. For this podcast landmark, Chris and Matt covered the latest from the world’s greatest actor as one of the world’s greatest monsters with Nic Cage as Dracula in ‘Renfield’. Nicholas Hoult and Awkwafina are in it too, I guess. Then they guys discuss the Dutch/Iranian procedural serial killer thriller thing that is ‘Holy Spider’. There’s the intoxicating rundown of the big releases on Physical M, featuring their Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris put a bow on this monumental occasion with their 5 Favorite Supporting Characters. So let’s shine a light on this abusive power dynamic and fire up another episode of The First Run! 00:00-17:30: Intro/Renfield 17:31-30:46: Physical Media Picks & Tangents 30:47-40:43: Holy Spider 40:44-55:32: 5 Favorite Supporting Characters/Sidekicks 55:33-57:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 14, 2023
TFR Ep. 652: The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Super Mario Bros., 5 Favorite Video Games
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt fire up their old NES systems, blow into the cartridge and boot up the new adaption of the classic game series, Super Mario Bros. in ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ [play Oh! Effect]! Then Matt and Chris double down on all things Mario with a discussion of The Super Mario Bros. movie from 1993. Bob Hoskins. Bob Hoskins. There’s the boisterous rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Chris and Matt close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Video Games. 00:00-09:45: The Super Mario Bros. Movie 09:46-19:21: Physical Media/Straight to DVD/Streaming 19:22-27:53: Super Mario Bros. 27:54-45:56: Video Games 45:57-47:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 07, 2023
TFR Ep. 651: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Inhuman Kiss, TFR Libs
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt pull out their character sheets and polyhedral dice with ‘Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. On the D20 of cinema, does Chris Pine and party roll a critical success or flub it with a natural one? Then they shift gears into Thai folklore with the horror-romance ‘Inhuman Kiss’. Chris finally gets to see one of his favorite monsters on at least the small screen. As always, they break down the big Physical Media Releases for the week, giving you the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week, and wrap up the big show with another round of everyone’s favorite fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs. So let’s roll for initiative and get this encounter! 00:00-17:11: Intro/Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves 17:18-22:22: Physical Media Picks 22:23-31:36: Inhuman Kiss 31:37-52:54: TFR Libs 52:55-56:13: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 31, 2023
TFR Ep. 650: John Wick Chapter 4, Marlowe, 5 Favorite John Wick Things
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt dust off their gold coins and get measured for a new bullet proof suits as it’s another round of John Wick, this time we’re at Chapter 4, with no extra title descriptor. Then Matt and Chris really lean into the over-40-white-guys-with-a-podcast aspect of the show with Liam “Seamus” Neeson in and as ‘Marlowe’. Director Neil Jordan takes a stab at the legendary gumshoe. There’s the reveal of the big Physical Media Releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Chris and Matt wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite Things about, around, and including John Wick. It’s lookin’ like we’re back with another hard-fisted, rootin’-tootin’ episode! 00:00-27:32: Intro/John Wick: Chapter 4 27:33-37:24: Physical Media & Streaming Picks 37:25-45:11: Marlowe 45:12-59:39: 5 Favorite John Wick Things 59:40-1:01:30: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 24, 2023
TFR Ep. 649: Shazam: Fury Of The Gods, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, 5 DC Adaptions We’d Like To See
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt say the magic word and return to the world of the Marvel Family! It’s Captain Marvel, Mary Marvel, Captain Marvel Jr., or as current copyrights now call them, the Shazam family. It’s Shazam: Fury Of The Gods! Zachary Levi and the gang return to face Helen Mirren, Lucy Lui, and current Hollywood It Girl, Rachel Zegler, collectively known as the SISTERS OF ATLAS (supposed to be some reverb) there. Then Guy Ritchie ventures away from his wheelhouse, the British crime thriller, to make a spy caper featuring Jason Statham, Audrey Plaza, and even more stars to stop an arms dealer. But a cool arms dealer. There’s the lovingly cultivated rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite DC Comic Stories Desperately In Need Of A Big Screen Adaptation! ’SHAZAM!’ 00:00-15:27: Intro/Shazam: Fury Of The Gods 15:28-24:02: Physical Media & Streaming Picks 24:03-33:52: Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre 33:53-55:22: 5 DC Adaptions We’d Like To See 55:23-57:23: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 17, 2023
TFR Ep. 648: Scream VI, 65, 2023 Oscars Wrap Up
And on this episode of The First Run, we head back to the Ghostface well one more time with ‘Scream VI’. Do we find that oh-so-refreshing potion of scares, nervous chuckles, and meta-commentary or is there not enough left in the vein to fill the bucket? Then we take a journey to a time long, long ago in a star system very, very near with Adam Driver and ‘65’. We run down the physical media, straight to dvd and streaming picks of the week. Then we wrap it all up with the post-Oscars breakdown from the greatest podcast of all time. 00:00-15:12: Intro/Scream VI 15:13-21:09: Physical Media Picks 21:10-30:44: 65 30:45-43:43: 2023 Oscar Post Mortem 43:44-46:24: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 10, 2023
TFR Ep. 647: Creed III, Women Talking, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt step back into the ring one more time to defend their title as the longest running cool film podcast in all the land with their discussion of ‘Creed III’. Michael B. Jordan steps into the director’s chair for the first time to continue the story of Adonis Creed as his past comes back to haunt him. Much like that breakfast burrito Matt had today. HA! Then Chris yells BINGO as he’s able to check off his final Best Picture nominee with Sarah Polley’s fictional take of a real event, ‘Women Talking’. At least Matt got to dodge Elvis. There’s the sun-drenched rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt & Chris close out the show with another round of everyone’s favorite leather-free role-playing game, ‘Who Dat’! Lace ‘em up! 00:00-17:35: Intro/Creed III 17:36-26:22: Physical Media Picks 26:27-40:27: Women Talking 40:28-55:55: Who Dat?!? 55:55-56:16: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, March 03, 2023
TFR Ep. 646: Cocaine Bear, EO, 5 Favorite Movie Animals
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt unretire the coke spoons and party like it's 1984 with the latest that's a thing movie, ‘Cocaine Bear’. Then Matt and Chris keep the all animals all the time episode going with the donkey film (a phrase Matt never thought he would say) ‘EO’. There’s the sparkling lowdown on the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Chris and Matt wrap it up all the fuzzy friend love with their 5 Favorite Movie Animals. Make a donation to the ASPCA and get ready to do a bump. It’s another stellar episode of The First Run. 00:00-09:58: Intro/Cocaine Bear 09:59-16:40: Physical Media Picks 16:41-30:27: EO 30:28-42:23: Top 5 Movie Animals 42:24-44:50: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 24, 2023
TFR Ep. 645: Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantumania, Burial, MCU Ranking
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt chug some Pym Particles via their Wolverine beer funnel and shrink down to the Quantamverse to check in on the latest and… let’s stick with latest, goings on in the MCU with Ant-Man And The Wasp: Quantumania! We got legit Kang this time, finally! Or at least one of them. Does Phase 5 kick off with a ka-bloowie? Or a whimper? Then it’s on the Nazi Wherwolf, not Werewolf, thriller, ‘Burial’. Brana and her Russian comrades are tasked with bring a body to Stalin, while evading Nazi’s along they way. There’s the effervescent rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then close out the show by attempting to hammer out a definitive MCU ranking. How low will those first couple Thor films go…? 00:00-23:33: Intro/Ant-Man & The Wasp: Quantamania 23:34-33:48: Physical Media Picks 33:49-40:21: Burial (2022) 40:22-58:44: MCU Ranking (Mostly) 58:45-1:01:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 17, 2023
TFR Ep. 644: Knock At The Cabin, Sick, Top 10 Films Of 2022: 5-1
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt get ready for another M. Night apocalypse with ‘Knock At The Cabin’. Do we get the effectively understated peril of Signs or the-boy-those-are-some-choices of ‘The Happening’? The world’s greatest movie podcast will let you know. Then they head back to meta town with Kevin Williamson’s pandemic slasher, ‘Sick’. There’s the enthralling rundown of the big upcoming Physical Media Releases, along with the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. And because it’s early February in 2023, Matt and Chris wrap up 2022 with their Top Five Films of the year. Since we’re not going to be one of those uninvolved observers, let’s listen to another episode of The First Run! 00:00-13:37: Intro/Knock At The Cabin 13:38-26:30: Physical Media Picks/Flash Trailer 26:31-36:21: Sick 36:22-53:05: Top 10 Films of 2022: 5-1 53:06-55:25: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 10, 2023
TFR Focus Ep. 25: ScreenRun: The Thing
We ran into some technical difficulties this week, so our discussion of ‘Knock At The Cabin’, ‘Sick’, and the conclusion of our Top 10 of 2022 will be delayed a week. In the interim, enjoy Matt’s appearance on Season 3 of ScreenRun, as John Carpenter’s masterpiece, ‘The Thing’, gets the ScreenRun breakdown! See you soon!
Fri, February 03, 2023
TFR EP. 643: Infinity Pool, Jung-E, Top 10 Of 2022: 10-6
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt once again dive into the deeply unsettling waters that are a Brandon Cronenberg joint with ‘Infinity Pool’. Mia Goth continues her stellar run along with one of the Skarsgard kids. The REALLY good looking one in a film about the worst vacation available, unless you’re filthy rich. And a jerk. Then Yeon Sang-ho, director of great ‘Train To Busan’ returns with the Netflix original, ‘Jung_E’. When is a sci-fi action film not so much about sci-fi or action? There’s the wildly entertaining countdown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the program by starting another countdown! It’s their 10 Favorite Films of 2022, starting with films 10-6. It is February after all. 00:00-17:56: Intro/Infinity Pool 17:57-24:27: Physical Media Picks 24:28-31:22: Jung_E 31:23-44:12: Top 10 Of 2022: 10-6 44:13-45:37: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 27, 2023
TFR EP. 642: Missing, White Noise, Oscar Nom Reactions, 5 Favorite Indie Comedies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt leverage the creepiness of the internet for both good and evil with the anthology sequel to ‘Searching’, ‘Missing’. This time, it’s Mom that’s gone AWOL. Can her young internet sleuthing daughter find her in time? Then it’s on to the latest from indie darling Noah Baumbach with his adaption of one of the great American literary satires, ‘White Noise’. There’s the illuminating rundown of the big physical media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris close out the show by letting you know which quirky gentleman and manic pixie dream girls are worth checking out with their Top 5 Indie Comedies. Honest to blog! White Boy With A Podcast song by Bum Bag . 00:00-11:38: Intro/Missing 11:39-26:18: Physical Media Picks/2023 Oscars Announcement 26:19-35:53: White Noise 35:54-55:50: 5 Favorite Indie Comedies 55:51-01:00:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 20, 2023
TFR Ep. 641: Skinamarink, All Quiet On The Western Front, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt relive their lo-fi, what the hell is HD, glory days of the 90’s with the experimental horror film that’s dividing audiences, ‘Skinamarink’. Has director Kyle Edward Ball redefined horror cinema? Or is this a one-off shiny little trinket easily forgotten? Then it’s on to the Netflix adaptation of ‘All Quiet On The Western Front’, this time actually made by a German. Does the fervent anti-war message carry through or are we just revisiting another ‘1917’ debacle. There’s the luminous yet refined rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris close out the show with having to make some impossible choices. It’s Call It! So settle in, bust out those Lego sets and don’t get shot trying to steal some eggs Dave! It’s another episode of The First Run. 00:00-15:12: Intro/Skinamarink 15:13-21:59: Physical Media Picks 22:00-34:46: All Quiet On The Western Front 34:47-52:26: Call It! 52:27-53:54: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 13, 2023
TFR Ep. 640: M3GAN, Aftersun, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out the latest AI is evil and will kill us all film, ‘M3GAN’. Do we have another friend to the end? Then because it’s awards season and we can’t feel too good about ourselves, it’s the Scottish import ‘Aftersun’. The story of a young girl’s vacation with her father, and the distance between them and all of us. There’s the review of the big releases on Physical Media featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with another edition of TFR Libs. Sorta’. 00:00-14:33: Intro/M3GAN 14:44-22:57: Physical Media Picks 22:58-31:54: Aftersun 31:55-47:33: TFR Libs 47:34-48:45: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 06, 2023
TFR Ep. 639: The Whale, Bardo, A False Chronicle Of A Handful Of Truths, 5 Favorite Acting Comebacks
This week on The First Run, renowned asshole Darren Aronofsky returns with ‘The Whale’. Perhaps we can get past all that and focus on Brendan Fraiser and what’s being called one of the best performances of the year. Then we begin our best of 2022 catch up with Alejandro Iñárritu’s ‘Bardo, A False Chronicle Of A Handful Of Truths’. A story about a identity, crisis, and humanity, that maybe something entirely different. Auteur’s gonna’ auteur. There’s the brand new ultra-cool revamp of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris close out the big show by sharing their 5 Favorite Acting Comebacks. Nic Cage does not count. You gotta’ be gone before you make a comeback. 00:00-20:25: Intro/The Whale 20:26-28:03: Physical Media Picks 28:04-42:36: Bardo, A False Chronicle Of A Handful Of Truths 42:37-1:02:00: Top 5 Acting Comebacks 1:02:01-1:03:37: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 30, 2022
TFR Ep. 638: Babylon, Glass Onion, 10 Films We're Looking Forward To In 2023
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with yet another ode to old Hollywood with Damian Chazelle’s ‘Babylon’. Is this an inspired addition to a tired sub-genre or is it the latest masturbatory entry of film makers telling us how great and important their craft is? We’ll let you definitively. Speaking of how oh so important filmmakers are, Matt and Chris finally check Rian Johnson’s latest, ‘Glass Onion’. Benoit Blanc returns to solve another star-studded murder! There’s the riveting rundown of the big Physical Media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. And then Chris and Matt close it all out by telling you what films they are excited for, and by extension what you should be excited for, in 2023. It’s a biggin’ folks! 00:00-16:10: Intro/Babylon 16:11-21:30: Physical Media Picks 21:31-35:21: Glass Onion 35:22-58:00: 10 Films We're Looking Forward To In 2023 58:01-59:59: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 23, 2022
TFR Ep. 637: Avatar: The Way Of Water, Bones And All, 5 Favorite Jimmy Cameron Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt return to Pandora after 13 years away to check in on what the haps! Is Unobrtainium still the hottest thing? Or is it now the Crypto of super space minerals. Has Cameron corrected the issues from the first entry and tightened things up a bit? Then it’s Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Bones And All’, the romance road trip body horror film you never knew you needed. If you fall into a very specific audience type. I’m thinking like 5% of you. There’s the review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then in honor of the Na’vi’s return, Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite James Cameron Scenes, which I can only assume will be wall-to-wall Avatar picks. 00:00-15:02: Intro/Avatar: The Way of Water 15:03-24:54: Physical Media Picks 24:55-34:27: Bones And All 34:28-44:47: Top 5 James Cameron Scenes 44:48-46:27: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 16, 2022
TFR Ep. 636: Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio, Guardians Of The Galaxy Holiday Special, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, it’s the holidays so of course Chris and Matt crank up the creepy with ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’. The second adaptation of the classic story this year, but this time we’re sans Disney! Then Matt and Chris join the Guardians of the Galaxy in a Christmas search for Earth’s greatest hero in ‘The Guardians Of The Galaxy Holiday Special’. As always, there’s the thrilling break down of the upcoming Physical Media Releases and the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Chris and Matt then wrap up it all up in a bow with the return of Who Dat?! It truly is an early Christmas gift from us to you, our listeners! 00:00-12:58: Intro/Guillermo Del Toro’s Pinocchio 12:59-19:45: Physical Media Picks 19:46-27:46: Guardians Of The Galaxy Holiday Special 27:47-51:03: Who Dat?!? 51:03-52:13: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 09, 2022
TFR Ep. 635: Violent Night, Tár, 5 Favorite Unconventional Movie Weapons
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss David Harbour’s is John McClane as Santa Claus in ‘Violent Night’. Santa is forced to confront, or perhaps revel in, his violent past when he becomes the only hope to save a naughty family from some even naughtier thieves on Christmas Eve. Then Cate Blanchette plays the titular ‘Tár’, a conducter on the edge bro. Fighting back against woke culture and perhaps her own ego. There’s the This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss David Harbour’s is John McClane as Santa Claus in ‘Violent Night’. Santa is forced to confront, or perhaps revel in, his violent past when he becomes the only hope to save a naughty family from some even naughtier thieves on Christmas Eve. Then Cate Blanchett plays the titular ‘Tár’, a conductor on the edge bro. Fighting back against woke culture and perhaps her own ego. There’s the holly AND jolly rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Unconventional Movie Weapons. Suit up, grab you still brimmed bowler hat and cattle gun. It’s another rambunctious episode of The First Run! 00:00-10:30: Intro/Violent Night 10:31-25:17: Physical Media Picks 25:18-38:54: Tár 38:55-51:15: 5 Favorite Unconventional Movie Weapons 51:16-52:34: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 02, 2022
TFR Ep. 634: The Fabelmans, Spirited, 5 Favorite Spielberg Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out the latest feel pretty good but not too good nostalgia fest from Steven Spielberg, ‘The Fabelmans’. Does this semi-autobiographical film give us an earnest peek into the legendary director’s youth and love for cinema? Or does Matt’s repulsion to biopics continue? Then it’s on to the classic song and dance duo of Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds with the latest riff on a Christmas Carol, ‘Spirited’. As always, there’s the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps up Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Señor Spielbergo scenes. It’s all movies all the times 00:00-16:43: Intro/The Fabelmans 16:44-30:46: Physical Media Picks 30:47-40:15: Spirited 40:16-56:45: 5 Favorite Spielberg Scenes 56:46-58:10: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 25, 2022
TFR Ep. 633: The Menu, V/H/S/99, 2022 Holiday Gift Guide
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take a trip to experience THE exclusive menu provided by ‘The Menu’. Ralph Fiennes is a chef with a secret. Anya Taylor-Joy is one of the customers who may be on to the shenanigans. And everyone else may just be horrible. The Shudder brings back the found footage anthology series for another spin. So fire up those VCR’s, it’s ‘V/H/S/99’. Is it time to retire the series and move on to DVD01? Or is there still some fire in the old series left? There’s the heartwarming rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming & Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and somebody close out the show with their suggestions for the movie lover in your life (or just you). It’s the 2022 Holiday Gift Guide! 00:00-13:59: Intro/The Menu 14:00-26:16: Physical Media Picks 26:17-42:57: V/H/S/99 42:58-1:00:07: 2022 Holiday Gift Guide 1:00:08-1:01:53: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 18, 2022
TFR Ep. 632: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt revisit the scientifically magical world of Wakanda with ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’! T’Challa has passed and to make things worse, Namor arrives in the MCU with his roguish charm and ankle wings to cause problems for our heroes. Then it’s on to the Roku Channel original, ‘Weird: The Al Yankovic Story’. It’s a week of film with colons. Will the artist responsible for such luminary classics as Eat It and Dare To Be Stupid deliver a biopic that even Matt can enjoy? There’s the scrumptious rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show closes with Matt and Chris having to make a few more tough calls with ‘Call It’, featuring John Carpenter, Clint Eastwood and more! 00:00-21:35: Intro/Black Panther: Wakanda Forever 21:36-31:40: Physical Media Releases 31:41-40:29: Weird: The Al Yankovic Story 40:30-56:10: Call It! 56:11-57:56: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 11, 2022
TFR Ep. 631: Banshees Of Inisherin, Decision To Leave, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt book a trip to a lovely little island off the coast of Ireland (part of a much bigger island) to catch up with the reunion of writer/director Martin McDonagh, Colin Farrell, and Brendan Gleeson before they stop talking to each other forever with ‘The Banshees Of Inisherin’. Then it’s off to South Korea to help solve the mystery of an accident, that may be a murder, with a dusting of love thrown in. It’s Park Chan-Wook's latest, ‘Decision to Leave’. There’s the scintillating run down of the big upcoming releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with another entry of the betting game with no follow through, ‘What Are The Odds?!?’. Let’s all try and stay friends, and possibly murderous lovers, after this one, okay? 00:00-12:5 1: Intro/ The Banshees Of Inisherin 12:52-26:03: Physical Media Picks 26:04-38:47: Decision To Leave 38:48-58:39: What Are The Odds?!? 58:40-59:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 04, 2022
TFR Ep. 630: Triangle Of Sadness, Werewolf By Night, The Howling, Werewolf Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt book a cruise with the rich and decadent to visit the scenic ‘Triangle Of Sadness’! Filled with a Russian oligarchs, Weapons Manufacturers, and possibly the worst of all, Social Media Influencers, is this trip with the 2 & half hour experience? Then as a treat, it’s ‘Werewolf By Night’! Disney+’s Halloween special is a throwback to the classic Universal monster movies! But is it more a trick? The Werewolf Marathon wraps with Joe Dante’s 80’s cult classic ‘The Howling’. Dee Wallace goes on a retreat after experiencing some severe workplace trauma, to find it hides a terrible secret. There’s the scintillating review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris close out the show with the Werewolf Marathon Awards! 00:00-13:08: Intro/Triangle Of Sadness 13:09-22:19: Werewolf By Night 22:20-36:13: Physical Media Picks 36:14-46:52: The Howling 46:53-55:19: Werewolf Marathon Awards 55:20-58:31: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 28, 2022
TFR Ep. 629: Black Adam, Clerks III, Wolfen, 5 Favorite View Askew Universe Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt shout “Shazam!” and The Rock’s passion project ‘Black Adam’ appears in a burst of lightning, ready for our review. Is it the course correction the DCEU has been waiting for? Then the guys make one last trip to the Quik Stop with ‘Clerks III’. Kevin Smith revisits the much beloved convenience store in Red Bank, NJ. But can you really go home again, again? The Werewolf Marathon continues with the barely relevant, ‘Wolfen’, featuring Albert Finney facing off against urban blight, gentrification, and some really ticked off not-quite werewolves. There’s the bone-chilling breakdown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight-To-DVD picks of the week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite View Askew Universe Characters. Happy Halloween and…’SHAZAM’! 00:00-21:54: Intro/Black Adam/DCEU 21:55-36:38: Clerks III 36:39-55:21: Physical Media Picks 55:22-1:06:08: Wolfen 1:06:09-1:18:23: 5 Favorite View Askew Universe Characters 1:18:24-1:19:28: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 21, 2022
TFR Ep. 628: Halloween Ends, Blonde, Company Of Wolves, 5 Favorite Halloween Candies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt head back to Haddonfield one more time, for now, as the David Gordon Green and Danny McBride helmed Halloween rest comes to an end with, ‘Halloween Ends’. Is Jamie Lee Curtis’ second run at franchise resetting sequel the best one yet? Then it’s on to the film Matt has been chomping at the bit to discuss for weeks! Andrew Dominik’s ‘Blonde’, featuring Ana De Armas as the Marilyn Monroe. It’s Netflix’s first NC-17 film, could it herald the beginning of a re-examination of the rating and its stigma? But things don’t end there! The Werewolf Marathon continues with ‘The Company Of Wolves’, a Grimm’s Fairy Tale come to life ala Hammer Studios. But was the 80’s too late to release it? There’s the venerable rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Halloween Candies! What are you hoping to score this season? 00:00-18:50: Intro/Haloween Ends 18:50-33:50: Blonde 33:51-43:20: Physical Media Picks 43:21-55:44: The Company of Wolves 55:45-1:09:24: 5 Favorite Halloween Candies 1:09:25-1:11:45: Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 14, 2022
TFR Ep. 627: Amsterdam, Hellraiser, Ginger Snaps, 5 Favorite 80’s Horror Monsters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt dive in to the A-Lister stuffed latest from David O. Russell, ‘Amsterdam’. Then we open the LeMarchand box and experience the ickiest of dubious pleasures with Hulu’s ‘Hellraiser’ remake/reboot. But wait there’s more! Our spooky season werewolf marathon continues with ‘Ginger Snaps’, a film that sets out to prove there is truly nothing so terrifying as a teenage girl. There’s the life-changing rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap it all up with their 5 Favorite Movie Monsters of the 80’s. So light ‘em if you got and join us down to the red-light district for another episode of The First Run! 00:00-17:34: Intro/Amsterdam 17:35-31:02: Hellraiser (22) 31:03-41:57: Physical Media Picks 41:58-51:22: Ginger Snaps 51:23-1:02:14: 5 Favorite 80’s Movie Monsters 1:02:15-1:04:57: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 07, 2022
TFR Ep. 626: Smile, The Wolf Man, 5 Streaming Horror Picks
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt decide to deal with our personal trauma head on, via confronting an evil entity that represents said trauma. It’s been the chic thing to do in horror the past few years, but can it be too on the nose, or down the mouth if you will. It’s ‘Smile’’. Then our Halloween Werewolves Movie Marathon begins with the OG Universal classic, 1941’s ‘The Wolf Man’. Lon Chaney Jr. is the titular Wolfman, named Larry. Not something cool like Sirius or Dixon. Fenris? Nope it’s Larry the sexual predator Wolfman. How does the old boy hold up after all these years? There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing some Horror Picks for you to stream this haunted season. 00:00-12:09: Intro/Smile 12:10-31:34: Physical Media Picks/Darkplace 31:35-43:35: The Wolfman (1941) 43:36-1:03:56: 5 Streaming Horror Picks 1:03:57-1:08:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 30, 2022
TFR Ep. 625: Don’t Worry Darling, Confess, Fletch, 5 Favorite Alternate Realities
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt publicly serve Olivia Wilde with another review of her latest, ‘Don't Worry Darling’. Is it as bad as critics make out to be or is Harry Styles so miscast that not even Florence Pugh and Chris Pine can save it? Then, we'll open the 80's nostalgia time capsule and pull out a sequel I don't think anyone was asking for with ‘Confess, Fletch’. This one replaces Chevy Chase with Jon Hamm though so it can go nowhere but up, right? Right? As always, we'll run down the upcoming major releases on physical media, our Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then finalize the latest notch on their podcast bed frame with our Top 5 Alternate Reality/Parallel Universes films. I realize now that even saying that may be a spoiler for one of the films. Oops! Anyway...let's take a listen to Don't Worry Darling while I fire another intern. 00:00-11:36: Intro/Don’t Worry Darling 11:37-29:12: Physical Media & Darkplace 29:13-42:36: Confess, Fletch 42:37-57:02: 5 Favorite Alternate Realities 57:03-1:00:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 23, 2022
TFR Ep. 624: Pearl, Moonage Daydream, 5 Favorite Albums
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt venture back to war time, World War I to be specific, and check in on everyone’s favorite super horny geriatric maniac in her young, formative years. Ti West and Mia Goth return with ‘Pearl’! Can a prequel possibly improve upon, or rescue, ‘X’? Then Matt throws Chris a bone as they discuss the David Bowie Super Documentary, ‘Moonage Daydream’. Bowie being Chris’ favorite musician, he tends to run super-critical of works associated with The Thin White Duke. How does this “documentary” turn out. And why is Chris using “Quotes”? There’s the life-affirming rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Albums. How many Bowie albums will be on Chris’ list? Will The Return Of Bruno show up? Will Foreigner Make Matt’s list? Why does Matt hate Foreigner? And by extension, why does Matt hate Chris? 00:00-13:00: Intro/Pearl 13:01-29:20: Physical Media Picks/Darkplace 29:21-42:53: Moonage Daydream 42:54-1:17:21: Top 5 Favorite Albums [Currently] 1:17:22-1:18:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Scalzo’s Frank Black & The Catholics Mix
Fri, September 16, 2022
TFR Ep. 623: Barbarian, Pinocchio, 5 Favorite Disney Characters
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest indie horror darling, ‘Barbarian’. Is it a Gen Z, ultra-meta Air BnB critique that’s too clever for its own good? Or is it a surprisingly effective gem? Your favorite internet uncles will fill you in. Then it’s on to the latest entry in the Tom Hanks does a bad accent canon, the “live-action” Pinocchio. As always, we’ll run down the upcoming releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show by sharing their Top 5 Disney (not Pixar) Characters. It’s gonna’ be a humdinger folks. So book those reservations, make sure your flashlight has fresh batteries, and hope for the best! 00:00-13:21: Intro/Barbarian 13:22-28:45: Physical Media & Darkplace 28:46-38:36: Pinocchio (Zemeckis) 38:37-51:38: 5 Favorite Disney Characters 51:39-53:44: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 09, 2022
TFR Ep. 622: Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul., Resurrection, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt share with you a kindness with their discussion of Adamma Ebo’s ‘Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul’. The dark satire about a mega-church’s fall from grace and attempted comeback featuring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown. Redemption is guaranteed, right? Then Rebecca Hall and Tim Roth star in a riveting thriller, ‘Resurrection’. A film that takes a turn that may or may not work. Hall has been on quite a streak, does it continue? There’s the transcendent rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close the show with another round of everyone’s favorite fill in the blank game, ‘TFR Libs’! Featuring Indiana Jones, Hellraiser, and more! 00:00-14:52 Intro/Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul 14:53-28:18 Physical Media, Weekly Picks and Darkplace! 28:19-40:50 Resurrection 40:51-1:02 TFR Libs 1:02-1:04 Wrap-Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 02, 2022
TFR Ep. 621: Three Thousand Years Of Longing, Voyage Of Time, Malick Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with another movie Matt has never heard of with George Miller’s (yes, that George Miller) ‘Three Thousand Years of Longing’. Tilda Swinton plays a scholar that specializes in storytelling, of legend and myth. She finds a bottle and releases an honest to goodness Jinn, played by the overly handsome DJ Idris Elba. So what wishes will be granted? And what stories will be told? Then it’s time to wrap up the Malick Marathon with both versions of “documentary”, ‘Voyage of Time’. Malick’s telling of the birth and end of the universe with two distinct versions, one narrated by Cate Blanchette and the other by Brad Pitt. There’s the loving rundown of the big physical media releases for the week and the guys share the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris award their personal “best ofs” from the Malick Marathon. 00:00-11:16: Intro/Three Thousand Years Of Longing 11:17-22:57: Physical Media Picks & Darkplace(?) 23:58-33:22: Voyage Of Time 33:23-42:59: Malick Marathon Awards 43:00-44:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 26, 2022
TFR Ep. 620: Orphan: First Kill, Knight Of The Cups, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the return of everyone’s favorite Esther, it’s ‘Orphan: First Kill’. In this prequel to the cult classic, they take a BIG swing, but does it connect? For the hit. It’s a baseball metaphor. Then our Malick Marathon continues with its penultimate entry, ‘Night Of The Cups’. Christian Bale stars as a lost man in search of himself. As there is apparently raging hurricanes around him at all times as Malick’s camera is never stationary. There’s the life-bringing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week, plus Chris checks in on whether Matt watched that first episode of ‘Garth Marenghi’s Dark Place’. Finally, Matt and Chris close out the show with another round of Call It! What’s making the cut this time…? 00:00-14:20: Intro/Orphan: First Kill 14:21-30:02: Physical Media & Darkplace 30:03-42:50: Knight Of The Cups 42:51-1:00:01: Call It! 1:00:02-1:01:37: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 19, 2022
TFR Ep. 619: Bodies Bodies Bodies, Bullet Train, The New World, 5 Favorite Brad Pitt Performances
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the latest offering from A24, the post-post-modern murder satire ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’. Someone turns up dead during a friendly game, but who dun it? And does it even matter? From there it’s on to the Brad Pitt led latest over-saturated action cameo-fest, ‘Bullet Train’. So many stars! So much potential! So much movie! Then Matt and Chris crest the top of the bell curve with our third entry in our Malick Marathon, ‘The New World’. Breathtaking visuals, quiet, contemplatively shots, featuring an expansive story about the birth of America, through the lens of one relationship. There’s the cosmic rundown of the big Physical Media Releases, along with the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The supersized episode then closes with Chris and Matt’s favorite Brad Pitt performances, which I assume is just a supercut of Pitt in ‘Thelma & Louise’. 00:00-14:42: Intro/Bodies, Bodies, Bodies 14:43-24:26: Bullet Train 24:27-39:01: Physical Media Releases 39:02-54:36: The New World 54:37-1:08:17: 5 Favorite Brad Pitt Performances 1:08:18-1:10:16: Warp Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 12, 2022
TFR Ep. 618: Prey, The Thin Red Line, 5 Sequel Scenarios
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt head deep into the frontier as we discuss the latest Predator sequel, ‘Prey’. In this entry, a budding Comanche warrior goes up against one of the fiercest hunters in the universe. Can she take it down? And how much Mary Sue BS does the internet stir up this time? Then our Malick Marathon continues with ‘The Thin Red Line’. Malick’s fictional story during the Guadalcanal Campaign in World War II. So how does it stack up against some of the more well-known war films like ‘Apocalypse Now’, ‘Platoon’, ‘Saving Private Ryan’…? There’s the crowd rousing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by coming up with their 5 Sequel Scenario Ideas! Where should a Predator pop up next? When would you put Pinhead? 00:00-19:02: Intro/Prey 19:03-32:56: Physical Media Picks 32:57-43:40: The Thin Red Line 43:41-56:02: 5 Sequel Scenarios 56:03-57:38: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 05, 2022
TFR Ep. 617: Marcel The Shell With Shoes On, Days Of Heaven, The Lounge
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check out the first animated feature for A24, it’s ‘Marcel The Shell With Shoes On’. Jenny Slate and Dean Fleischer-Camp bring their wildly popular shorts to the big screen in a heartwarming tale that hits all the buttons. Perhaps unremarkably so? Then Matt and Chris get their visual poetry on with ‘Days of Heaven’, the first entry in their Terrence Malick Marathon. There’s the electrifying rundown of the big Physical Media Releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the guys wrap up the show by slowing it down for another hip and happening entry of ‘The Lounge’ featuring a breakdown of all the MCU announcements at the San Diego ComicCon. Note: The Warner Bros/Discovery discussion took place just as the Scoob sequel and Batgirl cancellations were announced. All the other recent shenanigans hadn’t broken yet. So put on some smooth jazz, kick back, and take it easy my friend. It’s another chill episode of The First Run. 00:00-09:24: Intro/Marcel The Shell With Shoes On 09:25-18:41: Physical Media Picks 18:42-29:41: Days of Heaven 29:42-59:28: The Lounge 59:29-1:01:23: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 29, 2022
TFR Ep. 616: Nope, Innocents, Master, 5 Favorite Scary Movie Kids
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Jordan Peele’s third film, his third number one debut, and the most successful original IP film of the year, ‘Nope’. After the smash success of ‘Get Out’ and the thrilling, but not quite as good ‘Us’, Peele returns with his take on the alien horror, comedy, social commentary, western, sci-fi, mystery, family drama genre. Then they guys pick up the slack left my Chris’ illness last week and discuss the Norwegian killer kids thriller, ‘The Innocents’. And the speaking of social commentary, there’s Regina Hall’s ‘Master’. There’s the death-defying rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Scary Kids. In a movie. 00:00-20:24: Intro/Nope 20:25-30:24: The Innocents 30:25-40:35: Physical Media Picks 40:36-49:52: Master 49:53-1:03:41: 5 Favorite Scary Movie Kids 1:03:42-1:06:13: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 22, 2022
TFR Focus Ep. 24: ScreenRun: Aliens
This week on The First Run, Chris is recovering from a particularly nasty bug that prevented him from venturing out to the theaters and has affected his voice. He wants his ravings to be at the crystal clear quality you've come to expect so there is no new episode for this week. But fear not, most loyal listener. Your podcast BFFs are not going to leave you high and dry. For your listening pleasure, we have a special episode of Chris' other show, ScreenRun . ScreenRun is a film podcast where Chris and the podcast mommy herself, the Lady Wan , run through the filmography of a particular director, actor or movie franchise per season. It's really quite good, you should like and subscribe. In the show's second season, Chris and Wan ran through the Alien series and we've queued up for you the episode for what some would correctly call the best film in the franchise with James Cameron's 1986 sequel, Aliens. If you're saying to yourself "Matt...you're my favorite...I tune in for you!" I would say that you have excellent taste and to fear not since they were gracious enough to invite me as a guest on this episode. Thank you for your understanding and rest assured, your favorite internet uncles will be back next week to discuss the Norwegian supernatural thriller The Innocents, the psychological horror film Master, and Jordan Peele's much anticipated third film, Nope. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this special presentation of Screen Run.
Fri, July 15, 2022
TFR Ep. 615: Thor: Love And Thunder, Spiderhead, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check in on what’s been going on in the ol’ MCU as Phase 4 continues with ‘Thor: Love And Thunder’. Taika Waititi’s ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ is a favorite around these parts and we were anxious to see what was next. Then, HemsFest continues with Joseph Kosinski’s (of Top Gun Maverick fame) reunites with Miles Teller for the paranoia thriller, ‘Spiderhead’. What experiments would you perform if provided an ample number of inmates in secluded area? There’s the ravenous review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with your favorite fill-in-the-blank game, ‘TFR Libs’. Is Marvel fatigue a thing? 3+ years before a new Bond film? Clerks 3?!? And more! 00:00-19:05: Intro/Thor: Love And Thunder 19:06-33:41: Physical Media Picks 33:42-42:40: Spiderhead 42:41-1:04:41: TFR Libs 1:04:42-1:06:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 08, 2022
TFR Ep. 614: Hustle, You Won't Be Alone, 5 Favorite Dramatic Turns By Comedians
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt lace up their Chuck Taylors and head down to the court to shoot some hoops as Adam Sandler returns in the Netflix original, ‘Hustle’. The sports movie is a tried and true genre, but is there enough there to make for compelling viewing? Or is it a clichéd exercise? Then it’s on to the horror import, ‘You Won’t Be Alone’, that takes a more humanist turn with the witch ethos. But does it sacrifice the terror too? There’s the shriek inducing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the big show by sharing their 5 Favorite Dramatic Turns By Comedians. Is this how Matt becomes Joker? Listen on, if you dare! 00:00-09:30: Hustle 09:31-16:57: Physical Media Picks 16:58-26:58: You Won’t Be Alone 26:59-42:34: 5 Favorite Dramatic Turns By Comedians 42:35-43:47: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, July 01, 2022
TFR Ep. 613: The Black Phone, Mad God, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt get their spooky time on with the latest from Blumhouse, ‘The Black Phone’. Is it the best horror movie in ages or is that more hyperbole from the desperate fan base of a genre with the lowest bar for entry and yet the highest bar for quality? Your know-it-all internet uncles are here to make the definitive call. Then they dive into the lemarchand box of stop motion animation, Phil Tippett’s ‘Mad God’, one man’s passion project 30 years in the making with a history that seems like it was cribbed from a creepy pasta. Was it worth it? Does it make sense? Have your hosts stared into the void and saw the void stare back? You’ll find out soon enough! They’ll have our rundown of the new releases on physical media, your Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week.Then Matt and Chris wrap it up with the bookie approved probability game, What Are The Odds? So Let’s get this further descent into despair and madness started with a clip from the Black Phone. 00:00-11:06: Intro/The Black Phone 11:07-20:27: Physical Media Picks 20:28-30:12: Mad God 30:13-52:51: What Are The Odds?!? 52:52-54:19: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 24, 2022
TFR Ep. 612: Lightyear, Cha Cha Real Smooth, The Thing 40th Anniversary Screening, 5 Favorite Pixar Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discus the latest content from Disney, it’s ‘Lightyear’, the movie Andy saw that inspired his love for the Buzz Lightyear character and toys! Is it a fitting sorta’ origin for Buzz? And where is poor, poor Tim Allen? Then it’s time for the guys to grow up one more time with the latest coming-of-age film, ‘Cha Chan Real Smooth’. This time, a young man is adrift after college and falls for an older woman with her own personal challenges. And heartfelt hilarity follows from there. As it always does…? Chris and Matt have a quick discussion on Fathom’s “presentation” of The Thing” to celebrate its 40th Anniversary. There’s the interstellar review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight To DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Pixar Characters? I wouldn’t hold out hope for a Lightning McQueen appearance. Vroom Vroom! It’s The First Run! 00:00-13:35: Intro/Lightyear 13:36-19:57: 40th Anniversary Screening of The Thing 19:58-35:35: Physical Media Picks 35:36-46:44: Cha Cha Real Smooth 46:45-55:41: 5 Favorite Pixar Characters 55:42-57:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 17, 2022
TFR Ep. 611: Jurassic World: Dominion, RRR, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take one last ride around the park with ‘Jurassic World: Dominion’. Is this a fitting send off or proof that this franchise should have remained extinct? Then it’s on to discuss ‘Rise Roar Revolt’ or ‘RRR’, the Tollywood action film that was a smash hit in India and is taking the rest of the world by storm. Are we going to have another example of Chris gushing over the new hotness du jour with Matt not seeing what the big deal is or vice versa? Will our hosts do what they usually do and agree? Listen on to find out! There’s the suspenseful rundown of the big Physical Media Picks of the Week, featuring straight to dvd and streaming picks of the week then we’ll wrap up the show with everyone’s reference to the 2010 New Orleans Saints, Who Dat?!? Featuring appearances by Greta Gerwig, Todd Phillips, Matt Reeves, and more! 00:00-24:39: Intro/Jurassic World: Dominion 24:40-38:37: Physical Media Picks 38:38-56:04: RRR 56:05-1:15:12: Who Dat?!? 1:15:13-1:16:26: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 10, 2022
TFR Ep. 610: Crimes Of The Future, Watcher, 5 Favorite Cronenberg Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Cronenberg’s return to gross, icky, body horror sex stuff with ‘Crimes Of The Future’. After a run of critically acclaimed thrillers, a shift into smaller, odder films, Daddy Cronenberg is back, but does he still got it? And it meaning Ewww and Ohhhh… Then it’s another theatrical release, IFC Midnight and Shudder presents ‘Watcher’, featuring Maika (‘It Follows’) Monroe. Does director Chloe Okuno breathe new life into the genre? There’s the edge-of-your seat rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with their 5 Favorite Most Unsettling Cronenberg Scenes. 00:00-15:23: Intro/Crimes Of The Future 15:24-32:06: Physical Media Picks 32:07-39:39: Watcher 39:40-55:44: 5 Favorite Cronenberg Scenes 55:45-57:43: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 03, 2022
TFR Ep. 609: Top Gun: Maverick, The Sadness, 5 Favorite Childhood Crushes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt break out the aviators and cue up the Kenny Loggins for the sequel to that Tom Cruise volleyball movie, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. 35+ years later, is the magic still there, or was the original such an artifact of its time that the past should have been left well enough alone. Then it’s on to Taiwan for the extreme horror riff on The Crazies, ‘The Sadness’. Described as “The most violent and depraved zombie movie of all time”, can it possibly live up to the hype? As always, there’s the breakdown of the big Physical Media releases and the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with their Top 5 Childhood Pop Culture Crushes…man that’s a mouthful. 00:00-24:49: Intro/Top Gun: Maverick 24:50-41:16: Physical Media Picks 41:17-52:05: The Sadness 52:06-1:06:43: 5 Favorite Childhood Crushes 1:06:44-1:08:18: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 27, 2022
TFR Ep. 608: Men, Jiu-Jitsu, CageFest Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt get into a philosophical discussion about Men. Specifically Alex Garland’s latest, ‘Men’. #NotAllMen, but maybe #MostMen? After the successes of ‘Ex Machina’ and ‘Annihilation’ (and the rumored ghost directing of ‘Dredd’), Garland returns with a horror film about toxic bro’s, bro. And so much more. Too much more? Then CageFest wraps with ‘Jiu-Jitsu’ featuring a bunch of people picking up some extra shifts and a drop-in by the man himself. There’s the stylin’ rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with the traditional marathon awards ceremony. Time to break down the best and worst of CageFest! 00:00-13:19: Intro/Men 13:20-27:24: Physical Media Picks 27:25-41:27: CageFest: Jiu-Jitsu 41:28-49:23: CageFest Awards 49:24-53:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 20, 2022
TFR Ep. 607: Firestarter, Vengeance: A Love Story, 5 Favorite Stephen King Scares
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest Stephen King adaptation, scratch that, the latest adaptation remake. The film sparking our interest this time is ‘Firestarter’. We’ve long been supporters of remaking bad films, and John Lester’s original is far from a classic. So does ‘Firestarter’ light us up? Then CageFest continues with ‘Vengeance: A Love Story’. Nic Cage is a cop on the edge, who crosses the line when of punks get off. Sounds awesome. So is it? There’s the rambunctious rundown of the big releases Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Stephen King Movie Scares! Haunted cars, rabid dogs, and demonic clowns. Will The Dark Tower make the list? More like Dork Tower. It's The First Run! 00:00-13:41: Intro/Firestarter 13:42-16:39: Happening 16:40-32:41: Physical Media Picks 32:42-43:48: CageFest: Vengeance: A Love Story 43:49-56:16: 5 Favorite Stephen King Scares 56:17-58:29: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 13, 2022
TFR Ep. 606: Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness, Kill Chain, 5 Favorite MCU Post Credit Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest entry to the MCU and Sam Raimi’s directorial return to comic book movies, ‘Dr Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness’. Do we have another event MCU film with the Fox characters (X-Men, Fantastic Four, etc.) make their big debuts? Plus Chris shares his thoughts on the latest AMC Feature Drink, ‘The Sorcerer’. Then, CageFest continues with the I’m-not-sure-what-it-is-supposed-to-be ‘Kill Chain’, a Nic Cage movie that has a rather large dearth of Nic Cage. As always, there’s the breakdown the Physical Media releases, featuring the Straight To DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite Marvel Post Credit Sequences. Holy crap, you are excited! So cast yourself a spell or two and settle in for another episode! 00:00-19:44: Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness 19:45-21:58: AMC The Sorcerer Adult Beverage 21:59-32:42: Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness Spoilers 32:43-42:51: Physical Media Picks 42:52-51:35: CageFest: Kill Chain 51:36-1:01:36: 5 Favorite MCU Post Credit Scenes 1:01:37-1:03:16: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 06, 2022
TFR Ep. 605: Hatching, Cage Fest: Army Of One, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the Finnish horror film, ‘Hatching’. A film that is at once unimaginable and at the same time deceptively simple. Then Cage-Fest continues with Matt “Ripping His Shirt” and I discussing the Larry Charles helmed comedy, that’s right, the Borat director’s ‘Army Of One’ has Cage on a mission to bring in Osama Bin Laden, alive! There’s the stupefyingly beautiful rundown of the big releases featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the big show with another round of ‘Call It!’, featuring Audrey Hepburn, Jesus, Hanshiro Tsugumo, and more! So grab your swords and delicately pack your eggs. It’s another wild trip down the road of cinema! Yay! 00:00-13:51: Intro/Hatching 13:52-24:51: Physical Media Releases 24:52-35:27: CageFest: Army Of One 35:28-52:36: Call It! 52:37-54:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 29, 2022
TFR Ep. 604: The Northman, The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent, TFR Libs
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt go on a raid with Robert Eggers’ highly anticipated Viking revenge Hamlet (but not really) homage ‘The Northman’. After finding success with ‘The Witch’ and ‘The Lighthouse’, can Eggers’ streak of great films that begin with indefinite articles continue? Then we kick off our CageFest marathon with the meta action comedy, ‘Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’. With the critical acclaim for his last project, ‘Pig’, does Cage capture the magic again? We’ll give a breakdown of this week’s Physical Media releases and as well as the Straight-To-DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chriss then wrap up the show with their patented fill in the blank game, TFR Libs. This week featuring The Expendable, The Batman, and more! So grab you axe, show up at a birthday party for a gun-runner and let’s get ready to party! 00:00-13:09: Intro/The Northman 13:10-22:14: Physical Media Picks 22:15-35:11: The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent 35:12-52:16: TFR Libs 52:17-54:03: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 22, 2022
TFR Ep. 603: Secrets Of Dumbledore, Choose Or Die, 5 Great Movies Associated With Horrible People
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest (and lastest?) in the Fantastic Beasts series, ‘The Secrets Of Dumbledore’. The Harry Potter expansion returns with Eddie Redmayne, who should have lost that Best Actor statue to Michael Keaton, Dan Fogler, Jude Law, and Mads Mikkleson taking over for Johnny Depp. Can the series redeem itself from its droll cash grab roots? Then it’s on to the Netflix original ‘Choose Or Die’ as a couple of crazy kids find an old video game with a terrifying interactive feature. Chris sure does love his 80’s homages, but is that enough? There’s the gut-wrenching rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Chris has some corrections and stumbled across a potential massive scandal. Finally Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Projects Associated With Horrible People. Woody Allen? Bill Cosby? Roman Polanski? Sounds like fun… 00:00-16:24: Intro/Fantastic Beasts: Secrets Of Dumbledore 16:25-26:36: Physical Media Releases 26:37-31:04: SCANDAL 31:05-39:13: Choose Or Die 39:14-57:15: 5 Great Movies Associated With Horrible People 57:16-59:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 15, 2022
TFR Ep. 602: Everything Everywhere All At Once, Jacaranda Joe, AmbuLAance, Who Dat?!?
This week on the First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with yet another multiverse film in the Daniels’ ‘Everything, Everywhere All At Once’ with Michelle Yeoh. We also get into some Bay-hem with ‘Ambulance’, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II. Can there be too much Everything-Go-Boom? There’s the discussion of the big physical media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then we’ll wrap up the show with everyone’s favorite role play game, Who Dat?!? featuring appearances by Johnny Hollywood, other big time CEO’s, and Christopher Lloyd. All that and more on this week’s program! 00:00-13:10: Intro/Everything Everywhere All At Once 13:11-27:16: Physical Media Picks 27:17-30:07: Romero’s Lost Short: Jacaranda Joe 30:08-41:16: AmbuLAnce 41:17-1:02:32: Who Dat?!? 1:02:33-1:04:05: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 08, 2022
TFR Ep. 601: Morbius, The Bubble, Fresh, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on a special 601st anniversary episode of The First Run, initially things looked pretty bleak for your intrepid hosts. Not only do Matt and Chris discuss the latest Marvel side piece, ‘Morbius’, Chris messed up and watched ‘The Bubble’, forgetting that we all agreed last week to watch ‘Fresh’. So what did we do? We watched all three. Plus Chris debuts a new feature! So was the week redeemed? There’s the life-affirming review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris leave the Top 5’s behind, at least for this week, with the return of everyone’s favorite Vegas style segment, ‘What Are The Odds’, featuring Sony, Netflix, and more! So grab your garlic necklaces, be sure to tenderize your meat, and quarantine yourself with a few pals for this episode of The First Run! 00:00-18:38: Intro/Morbius 18:39-29:47: The Bubble 29:48-38:11: Physical Media Picks 38:12-49:14: Fresh 49:15-1:04:43: What Are The Odds?!? 1:04:44-1:06:31: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 01, 2022
TFR Ep. 600: The Lost City, CODA, TFR Top 50: 10-1
This week on a special 600th episode of The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the return of the romantic adventure genre featuring Sandra Bullock and Channing Tatum in ‘The Lost City’. A historical romance writer is kidnapped as she may know certain clues to a lost treasure. Is it a genre primed for a comeback? And how is the chemistry between Bullock and Tatum? Then it’s on to this year’s Best Picture winner, ‘CODA’. The story of a hearing young woman who is the “Child Of Deaf Adults” who is desperate to leave her small town behind and pursue an education in music. But she’s torn by the love of her family and their dependance on her. Best Picture, huh? There’s the heartwarming review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show and the Countdown of their 50 Favorite Films with movies 10-1. 00:00-13:17: Intro/The Lost City 13:18-24:20: Physical Media Picks 24:21-36:15: CODA 36:16-43:24: 2022 Oscars Recap 43:25-1:08:23: TFR Top 50: 10-1 1:08:24-1:10:56: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 25, 2022
TFR Ep. 599: X, Deep Water, TFR Top 50: 20-11
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest from Ti West, ‘X’. After the fantastic ‘House Of The Devil’, the underwhelming ‘The Innkeepers’, and the solid ‘The Sacrament’, West returns with his loving tribute to 70’s slashers. The kids seem to love it, but is it scary? Then the psychological super-hot sexy thriller featuring super sexy Ben Affleck and super-duper sexy Ana De Armas. And what does J-Lo think of all this? I bet you Ben’s in some ‘Deep Water’…There’s the thrilling review of thebig releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then close the show with their anniversary countdown of the 50 Favorite Films. This time out, it’s 20-11. So close! 00:00-14:47: Intro/X 14:48-26:37: Physical Media Picks 26:38-40:37: Deep Water (& Veganism?!?) 40:38-1:08:57: TFR Top 50: 20-11 1:08:58-1:11:18: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook Boring Co. Loop Video from donoteat1
Fri, March 18, 2022
TFR Ep. 598: The Adam Project, Belfast, TFR Top 50: 30-21
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest Ryan Reynolds / Shaw Levy team up, ‘The Adam Project’. After the success of ‘Free Guy’, the two return for a sci-fi actioner for Netflix featuring Reynolds’ unending, some say unbearable, charm, drama, romance, and thrills! But does it end the drought of the star’s lack luster Netflix produced content? Then it’s on the Kenneth Branaugh’s Best Picture contender, ‘Belfast’. The family drama set during the clashes in the Irish town as Jamie Dornan and his family struggle to survive and do what’s right. There’s the luxurious rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then closes as Matt and Chris continue the Countdown of their 50 Favorite Films as we inch closer to episode 600. This week, it’s films 30-21! 00:00-12:48: Intro/The Adam Project 12:49-22:28: Physical Media Picks 22:29-30:57: Belfast 30:58-55:25: TFR Top 50: 30-21 55:26-57:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 11, 2022
TFR Ep. 597: The Batman, Red Rocket, TFR Top 50: 40-31
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Matt Reeves’ entry in the Batman movie franchise, ‘The Batman’. Robert Pattinson dons the cowl and begins a new era for the caped crusader. But is it a good era? Then it’s on to Sean Baker’s latest slice of underbelly Americana with ‘Red Rocket’. Simon Rex won the Best Male Lead at the Independent Spirit Awards for his performance. But how’s the film itself? There’s the ever-adorable rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with the continuation of their Top 50 Favorite Films. This week, it’s 40-31! 00:00-27:34: Intro/The Batman 27:35-36:32: Physical Media Picks 36:33-46:54: Red Rocket 46:55-1:11:21: TFR Top 50: 40-31 1:11:22-1:12:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 04, 2022
TFR Ep. 596: Studio 666, Dog, Old Henry, TFR Top 50: 50-41
This week on The First Run, the countdown to episode 600 begins! Chris and Matt discuss the horror-comedy ‘Studio 666’, featuring, and inspired by, the Foo Fighters. Yep. Is it this generation’s ‘Spinal Tap’/Exorcist’ mash up somebody was looking for? A complete disaster? A cult classic in the making? So much much. Chris shares his thoughts on Channing Tatum’s ‘Dog’. Is it a heartwarming family drama or is there something else going on? Then we shift to a genre Matt actually likes, the western. Tim Blake Nelson stars in ‘Old Henry’, about a farmer with a secret past where truths are revealed as he and his family are beset by roaming marauders. There’s the thrilling rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by revealing the first part of our Top 50 Countdown of their favorite films. 00:00-16:04: Intro/Studio 666 16:05-27:23: Physical Media Picks 27:24-30:50: Dog 30:51-38:55: Old Henry 38:56-1:05:31: TFR Top 50: 50-41 1:05:32-1:07:07: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey NOTE: We had some audio issues this week. Did our best to clean it up and think it came out fine, just not as good as usual. Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 25, 2022
TFR Ep. 595: Uncharted, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, 5 Films That Could Use A Legacy Sequel
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt venture out to parts unknown on their search for that ever-elusive cinematic treasure, the good video game adaptation with ‘Uncharted’. Tom Holland steps into the role of Nathan Drake, the lead character from the acclaimed video game series. Have we found the gold? Then it’s on to scenic Texas by way of Bulgaria for the latest legacy sequel, ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’, minus the indefinite article. Elsie Fischer (Yes, Elsie Fischer of ‘Eighth Grade’) and pals decide to revitalize a ghost town, but one inhabitant isn’t too keen on gentrification. There’s the endearing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the ceremonies by sharing their 5 Favorite Films That Could Use A Legacy Sequel. Though maybe that answer should be ‘None’. 00:00-13:40: Intro/Uncharted 13:41-23:14: Physical Media Picks 23:15-38:27: Texas Chainsaw Massacre 38:28-57:52: 5 Legacy Sequel Ideas 57:53-59:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter instagram Facebook
Fri, February 18, 2022
TFR Ep. 594: Blacklight, Kimi, 5 Favorite Soderbergh Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Liam Neeson doing Liam Neeson things in ‘Blacklight’. Has the shine on the King of January & February Cinema’s crown started to dull? Then it’s on to the latest from Mr. Steven Soderbergh, it’s ‘Kimi’, featuring Zoë Kravitz in a Rear Window-esque thriller for the electronic assistant age. There’s the rejuvenating rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the big show by sharing their 5 Favorite Soderbergh Scenes! 00:00-10:12: Intro/Blacklight 10:13-23:26: Physical Media Picks 23:27-34:31: Kimi 34:32-57:13: 5 Favorite Soderbergh Scenes 57:14-58:40: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 11, 2022
TFR Ep. 593: Moonfall, House Of Gucci, 10 Favorite Films of 2021: 5-1
This week on The First Run, Chris Scalzo and Matt ‘Razzlekhan’ Howell discuss the latest disaster epic from Roland Emmerich, ‘Moonfall’. This time it’s up to Halle Berry, Patrick Wilson, Samwell himself, John Bradley to save the world from the moon crashing into the Earth. Oh, and there are some aliens and an AI gone mad. And a bunch of other stuff. Then it’s on to Ridley Scott’s second film of 2021, ‘House Of Gucci’, featuring Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, and more. And Jared Leto. There’s the incendiary rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with the wrap up of their 10 Favorite Films of 2021, Films 5-1. Barb and Star still have time to make the cut… 00:00-13:56: Intro/Moonfall 13:57-27:15: Physical Media Picks 27:16-37:43: House Of Gucci 37:44-57:11: 10 Favorite Films of 2021: 5-1 57:12-58:31: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 04, 2022
TFR Ep. 592: Parallel Mothers, Flee, 10 Favorite Films of 2021: 10-6
Lots of subtitles this time. This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest Pedro Almodóvar and Penelope Cruz team up, ‘Parallel Mothers’. Cruz plays a single mother trying to balance her career, life, and a terrible secret. Speaking of secrets, I was certain Matt “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” Howell was going to watch the Lawrence Fishburne, Stephen Baldwin classic ‘Fled’ instead, but thankfully here we are. It’s the Danish animated documentary tearing up the charts, ‘Flee’. A tale of survival and secrets from a child refugee of war-torn Afghanistan. To lighten things up, we’ll review the big releases on Physical Media featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with the first part of our 10 Favorite Films of 2021, Films 10-6. What’s making the cut? Listen on to find out. 00:00-11:45: Intro/Parallel Mothers 11:46-26:18: Physical Media Picks 26:19-38:10: Flee 38:11-54:20: 10 Favorite Films of 2021: 10-6 54:21-55:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, January 28, 2022
TFR Ep. 591: Drive My Car, Dual, Something In The Dirt, 5 Favorite Doppelgänger Films
This week on The First Run, does Matt finally quite the show after I make him watch a Japanese drama about a guy getting chauffeured around for 3 hours? That’s right, it’s the highly regarding Best International Feature front runner from Japan, ‘Drive My Car’. Heartache, grief, plays, and road trips! Sounds like a blast. Then Matt and Chris dip their toe in the 2022 Sundance Film Festival pool with Riley Stearns’ ‘Dual’ and Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead’s ‘Something In The Dirt’. There’s the remarkable rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then closes as Chris and Matt share their 5 Favorite Doppelgänger Films, featuring the tethered, snatched bodies, and some good old-fashioned obsession. 00:00-13:16: Intro/Drive My Car 13:17-22:35: Physical Media Picks 22:36-31:37: Dual 31:38-33:59: Something In The Dirt 34:00-51:15: 5 Favorite Doppelgänger Films 51:16-53:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 21, 2022
TFR Ep. 590: Scream, The Worst Person In The World, 5 Favorite 90’s Horror Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the potential revitalization of one of the most popular horror franchises of the 90’s and aughts. It’s Scream! What’s with the re-using of original titles lately? TCM, Halloween, now Scream? Weird. So How have Sidney, Gale, and Dewey been? What’s up in murder town, or as we also know it, Greensboro. And who are all these young kids? Then it’s on to the Norwegian import, ‘The Worst Person In The World’. Getting lots of buzz, including a Best Actress win at Cannes, it’s another slice of life, coming of age film we’ve been specializing in lately. But does it offer something different? There’s the life-altering review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite 90’s Horror Films. Hola, Sidney! 00:00-18:40: Intro/Scream (2022) 18:41-27:44: Physical Media Picks 27:45-37:45: The Worst Person In The World 37:46-54:24: 5 Favorite 90’s Horror Films 54:25-55:53: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 14, 2022
TFR Ep. 589: The Tragedy Of Macbeth, C’Mon C’Mon, 5 Favorite Passion Projects
It’s a week of Black & White films. In fact, in honor of the films, we recorded this in black and white. And mono. This may be the episode that breaks Matt. Because first up, It’s Joel Coen’s adaptation of the classic ‘The Tragedy Of Macbeth’. Denzel Washington plays the titular Macbeth. Can it’s streamlined production save it from Matt’s wrath? Then it’s on to Mike Mills’ ‘C’Mon C’Mon’. A slice of life film featuring Joaquin Phoenix in the thoughtful, sensitive role that perhaps further cements him as one of our greatest living actors. There’s the essential listening that is the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then closes as Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Passion Projects, featuring Travolta, Bruno, Spielberg, and more! 00:00-19:09: Intro/The Tragedy Of Macbeth 19:10-37:15: Physical Media Picks 37:16-49:44: C’Mon C’Mon 49:45-1:13:25: 5 Favorite Passion Projects 1:13:26-1:15:13: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 07, 2022
TFR Ep. 588: Licorice Pizza, The King’s Man, Call It
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest from the director of Chris’ favorite film of the 21st Century, PTA returns with ‘Licorice Pizza’. A coming-of-age story in early 70’s LA. A little slice of life film that’s received some heat in the online discourse regarding the purposeful age gap of our stars. What’s up with that? Then its on to the latest film from Matthew Vaughn as he continues the expansion of the Kingsmen franchise with an origin story, ‘The King’s Man’. How did the super-duper private British intelligence agency come about? And does anyone else find it weird watching M as a kick butt secret agent? There’s the completely enrapturing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with another round of ‘Call It’! Featuring Chris Hemsworth, Brian Mills, Sydney Prescott, the Blair Witch, and more! 00:00-23:24: Intro/Licorice Pizza 23:25-29:45: Physical Media Picks 29:46-37:29: The King’s Man 37:30-56:04: Call It! 56:05-58:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 31, 2021
TFR Ep. 587: Matrix: Resurrections, Don’t Look Up, 5 Favorite Adam McKay Scenes
This week on the last episode of 2021 of The First Run, Chris and Matt share their thoughts on The Matrix: Resurrections. Lana Wachowski returns to the franchise that changed cinema with a new story to tell. But a story perhaps somewhat influenced by a studio with perhaps a concern for a payday and not a new artistic endeavor. Keanu Reeves and Carrie Anne Moss return, certain other decisions are made, and a sci-fi franchise is brought back to life. But things ended so perfectly last time, should we be plugging back in? Then Adam McKay continues his run of all-star casts, political commentary, and possibly diminishing laughs with the eco-disaster political satire, ‘Don’t Look Up’. Leonardo DiCaprio leads McKay’s film with an important message that either lands or crashes. There’s the final rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris attempt to close out the year with some laughs as they share their 5 Favorite Adam McKay scenes. It’s just another episode of the show that escalated quickly. 00:00-20:27: Intro/Matrix: Resurrections 20:28-26:52: Physical Media Picks 26:53-40:10: Don’t Look Up 40:11-54:34: 5 Favorite Adam McKay Scenes 54:35-56:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Sat, December 25, 2021
TFR Ep. 586: Spider-Man: No Way Home, Nightmare Alley, 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2022
This week on a special non-holiday version of The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Matt’s most anticipated film of the year. It’s finally here, Tom Holland stars in Jon Watts’ ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’. Marvel’s flagship character completes his trilogy with laughs, loves, shocks and thrills. But can it actually meet Matt’s lofty expectations? Then, on any other weekend, Guillermo Del Toro’s latest film, ‘Nightmare Alley’ dropped to little fanfare. The former Best Director and Picture winner delivers his adaptation of a little known, but classic film noir from 1947. Does Del Toro imagination improve on the original, or was it better leaving well enough alone? There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week, likely delivered by elves since we fired all the interns. The show then closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2022. Come on Avatar 2! 00:00-12:55: Intro/Spider-Man: No Way Home 12:56-23:26: Spider-Man: No Way Home Spoilers 23:27-31:40: Physical Media Picks 31:41-44:18: Nightmare Alley 44:19-01:04:33: 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2022 01:04:34-01:06:09: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 17, 2021
TFR Ep. 585: West Side Story, Black Friday, 5 Favorite Spielberg Films
This week on The First Run, Matt’s movie advent calendar lights its second to last candle as we are 1 week away from Spider-Man No Way Home. To hold Matt over, we’re discussing a film from his favorite genre, musicals. It’s ‘West Side Story’ from the man who does not miss, Steven Spielberg. Is now just the right time to unleash upon the world a romantic dramatic tragedy about potential irreconcilable conflicts between two groups. Can they possible put their differences aside in the name of love? And can we? Then to ease tensions, Matt and Chris settle in on a cold wintery night with a few old friends, it’s ‘Black Friday’. A meta film about the evils of the consumerism side of the holidays. There’s the heart-warming rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show then wraps with Chris and Matt sharing their 5 Favorite Spielberg Films. 00:00-17:27: Intro/West Side Story ‘21 17:28-28:13: Physical Media Picks 28:14-37:05: Black Friday 37:06-50:23: 5 Favorite Spielberg Films 50:24-51:15: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 10, 2021
TFR Ep. 584: The Power Of The Dog, Benedetta, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Jane Campion’s latest film with a stellar ensemble of Benedict Cumberbatch, Benedict’s Cumberbatch, America’s sweetheart Jesse Plemons, Kirsten Dunst, and Kodi Smith-McPhee in the Netflix original, ‘The Power of The Dog’. A western about masculinity, love, and violence. Then Paul Verhoeven has entered the twilight years of his career. Is he still turning out bangers? That’s right, it’s the not quite nunsploitation thriller, ‘Benedetta’. There’s the always illuminating review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The big show then closes with Matt and Chris playing another round of your favorite fill-in-the-blank game, ‘TFR Libs’! Note: Not only does Chris misquote ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’, it’s..”I’ll love you ‘til the day I die”, but he also incorrectly dates ‘Black Xmas’ as a 90’s film when it was clearly released in 2006. There goes another intern. At Christmas no less… 00:00-11:50: Intro/The Power Of The Dog 11:51-21:00: Physical Media Picks 21:01-33:47: Benedetta 33:48-51:27: TFR Libs 51:28-53:07: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 03, 2021
TFR Ep. 583: King Richard, Resident Evil: Welcome To Raccoon City, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the obvious Oscar bait film that is ‘King Richard’. Does the story of Richard Williams, the drive behind Venus and Serena Williams’ career, give Will Smith the ability to finally net that elusive Best Actor statue? Then Resident Evil goes the reboot route with ‘Welcome To Raccoon City’. The film sticks closer to the games, which may be a delight for the fans, but does it break the video game movie curse? I mean it HAS to be better than the Paul WS Anderson run, right? RIGHT?!? There’s the life changing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with their 2nd favorite, non-spouse swapping role playing game, ‘Who Dat?!?’. This week featuring special appearances by Jared Leto, a special Twitter account, and…Matt…? Let’s get to listening! 00:00-11:22: Intro/King Richard 11:23-22:42: Physical Media Picks 22:43-32:28: Resident Evil: Welcome To Raccoon City 32:29-55:08: Who Dat?!? 55:09-56:35: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 26, 2021
TFR Ep. 582: Ghostbusters: Afterlife, The Harder They Fall, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt see if you really can go home again. The latest attempt to revive a beloved franchise, or at least that first film, is helmed by the son of the original director, features appearances of the original cast, and is overstuffed with homages. That’s right, it’s Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Does it capture the magic of the 1984 original and justify its existence? Then it’s on to the Netflix original, featuring current Hollywood ‘It Guy’, Johnathan Majors as real-life cowboy, Nat Love, on a quest for vengeance in ‘The Harder They Fall’. Matt loves him some westerns, so surely this will be right up his alley! There’s the riveting discussion of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the big show with a truly stunning round of ‘What Are The Odds?!?’ in all it’s hyperbolic glory! Happy Black Friday shopping gang! 00:00-15:04: Intro/Ghostbusters: Afterlife 15:05-24:02: Physical Media Picks 24:03-31:25: The Harder They Fall 31:26-48:05: What Are The Odds?!? 48:06-50:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Wed, November 24, 2021
TFR Focus Ep. 23: National Treasure(s), 5 Best Nic Cage Films
On this special episode of TFR Focus, Chris and Matt are joined by Gomez of Playlist Wars to discuss one of his favorite actors and franchises, Nic Cage and National Treasure! It’s guest’s choice this time as Gomez wants to breakdown Nic Cage and Disney’s National Treasure films. Not only that, but then the guys tick off their 5 Favorite Nic Cage Performances! All this and more on the latest episode of The First Run Focus! 00:00-31:56: Intro/National Treasure 31:57-51:11: National Treasure: Book Of Secrets 51:12-1:16:49: 5 Best Nic Cage Roles 1:16:50-1:20:00: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 19, 2021
TFR Ep. 581: Red Notice, Finch, 2021 Holiday Gift Guide
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the Netflix blockbuster, per Netflix, ‘Red Notice’. Featuring 3 of today’s biggest stars! Has a new action franchise been born? And is that a good thing? Then AppleTV+ has their own premiere, featuring America’s Dad, Tom Hanks in a heart-warming tale about the apocalypse. It’s ‘Finch’! There’s the deliriously entertaining rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Then it’s one of Matt’s favorite segments we do, our 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for the movie lover in your life. Or you. 00:00-13:23: Intro/Red Notice 13:24-22:48: Physical Media Picks 22:49-26:52: Spider-Man No Way Home Trailer 26:53-35:01: Finch 35:02-48:48: 2021 Holiday Gift Guide 48:49-49:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 12, 2021
TFR Ep. 580: Eternals, The French Dispatch, 5 Best Wes Anderson Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss ‘Eternals’, the latest film from the MCU, directed by your most recent Best Picture and Director winner, one Ms. Chloé Zhao. Initially concerned it was going to be a gorgeous looking bore, with it also being the lowest rated MCU film on Rotten Tomatoes, can it actually be…good..? Then Wes Anderson returns with his latest project filled with whimsy and quirk, ‘The French Dispatch’. Featuring his typical all star cast, does Anderson deliver another odd, enthralling film? There’s the venerable rundown of the big releases in Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Wes Anderson characters. Will your favorite make the cut? Come on Dingman! 00:00-18:15: Intro/Eternals 18:16-29:10: Physical Media Picks 29:11-39:39: The French Dispatch 39:40-48:38: 5 Favorite Wes Anderson Characters 48:39-51:19: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 05, 2021
TFR Ep. 579: Last Night In Soho, Antlers, Dead Ringers, Body Horror Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt have another triple feature in store for all you! First Up, TFR favorite Edgar Wright deliver’s his version of the giallo with a possible dusting of time travel thrown in with, ‘Last Night In Soho’, featuring Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy. Wright has yet to make a bad film, could this be the first one? Then it’s on to the horror film, ‘Antlers’, featuring an interesting monster and a dash about eco-horror. From there the Body Horror Marathon wraps up with David Cronenberg’s ‘Dead Ringers’, featuring Jeremy Irons and Genevieve Bujold. There’s the always thrilling review of the big release on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their Body Horror Marathon Awards. It’s been an odd marathon with what you may think are obvious choices. Only way to know for sure is to listen dear friends! 00:00-14:24: Intro/Last Night In Soho 14:25-20:51: Antlers 20:52-29:46: Physical Media Picks 29:47-38:04: Dead Ringers 38:05-47:32: Body Horror Marathon Awards 47:33-49:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Sun, October 31, 2021
TFR Ep. 578: WNUF Halloween Special, V/H/S/94, Halloween Streaming Picks
On this special Halloween episode of The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss two Shudder exclusives. First up it’s the possibly soon-to-be cult classic, the ‘WNUF Halloween Special’. A film designed to look like a bootleg VHS copy of a local news Halloween Special that goes horribly wrong. Then the V/H/S anthology series returns with 4 new stories with ‘V/H/S/94’. Can the series conquer the anthology film trap of being terribly uneven with this latest entry? And finally as Halloween night is upon us, Matt and Chris share a horror movie pick for the streaming service of your choice. Basically all of them. So cuddle up, lock the doors, and settle in for a spooky Halloween special from your ghoulish friends at The First Run! 00:00-07:33: Intro/WNUF Halloween Special 07:34-19:19: V/H/S/94 19:20-32:52: Horror Streaming Picks 32:53-34:04: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 29, 2021
TFR Ep. 577: Dune, The Last Duel, Lamb, The Incredible Melting Man, Call It!
Guys. Holy crap guys. This week, the show is simply bursting with content. First, Chris and Matt discuss the much-anticipated Dune: Part 1, the passion project of First Run favorite Denis Villeneuve. Is it gorgeous? Is it exciting? Is it as weird as its source material? Only one way to find out. Well, two if you count watching yourselves. The guys then give you not one, but two, bonus discussions on Ridley Scott's latest sword and shield historical epic, The Last Duel, and an Icelandic horror fairy tale thing with Lamb. Then the Body Horror Marathon continues with The Incredible Melting Man, one of the only films reviewed for the podcast that is also the subject of an MST3K episode. So there's that. As always, we give our Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week, Chris runs down the physical media releases because you'll pry his 4k disks from his cold, dead hands and wrap it up with a spooky season edition of Call It! What are you waiting for?! Get in here! 00:00-22:32: Intro/Dune 22:33-33:27: The Last Duel 33:28-42:22: Lamb 42:23-49:11: Physical Media Picks 49:12-57:15: The Incredible Melting Man 57:16-01:10:42: Call It! 01:10:43-01:12:22: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 22, 2021
TFR Ep. 576: Halloween Kills, Tetsuo: The Iron Man, 5 Favorite Michael Myers Kills
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt don their bleached Bill Shatner masks and settle for the highest kill count for any Michael Myers film with, ‘Halloween Kills’. And brother does it ever. But does a high body count translate to a good film? Then the Body Horror Marathon continues with Japanese cult classic, ‘Tetsuo: The Iron Man’. What would you do if you hit a guy with your car that was obsessed with transforming his body with various metal objects and so much worse? How bad could it get? Very bad apparently. There’s the positively riveting review of the big releases Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then Matt and Chris close out the proceedings with their 5 Favorite Michael Myers Kills! Which on of your favorites will make the cut? Listen on to find out! 00:00-15:00: Intro/Halloween Kills 15:01-23:01: Physical Media Picks 23:02-31:50: Tetsuo: The Iron Man 31:51-40:25: 5 Best Michael Myers Kills 40:26-43:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 15, 2021
TFR Ep. 575: No Time To Die, Rabid, 5 Best Bond Gadgets
This week on The First Run, Chris’ long wait for the Daniel Craig’s final outing as James Bond is over as after multiple delays, ‘No Time To Die’ is finally here. Matt saw it too. After all this time and all the self-imposed hype by Chris, can it possible stand up to his lofty expectations and be the perfect send off for Craig? Then the Body Horror Marathon continues with David Cronenberg’s ‘Rabid’. If you ever wondered what would happen if you were in a bad motorcycle accident and had to be cared for by the local experimental plastic surgery shop as the closest hospital was too far away and then you developed some weird deformity that made you feed on blood and then infect your victims with their own insatiable need for blood, we have the film for you. There’s the venerable rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Bond Gadgets! How many of them are cars? Any exploding pens or magnetic watches? Listen to find out Double O fans! 00:00-16:57: Intro/No Time To Die 16:58-32:09: No Time To Die Spoilers and More 32:10-40:16: Physical Media Picks 40:17-48:12: Rabid 48:13-58:24: 5 Favorite Bond Gadgets 58:25-01:00:31: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 08, 2021
TFR Ep. 574: Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Titane, Tokyo Gore Police, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check back in with their old buddy Eddie Brock and his symbiotic pal, Venom in ‘Venom: Let There Be Carnage’! With the original being as flawed as it was, does director Andy Serkis right the ship and deliver a superior sequel? Or should we just head to the closest bell tower and be done with it? Chris shares his thoughts on that French horror film where the woman gets impregnated by a car. Is ‘Titane’ one of the best films of the year?!? Then our Body Horror Marathon continues with ‘Tokyo Gore Police’. One of the more gore-soaked films Matt and Chris have seen, that may be as disastrous as it is fun. There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then they guys close out the show with another round of everyone’s fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs, featuring some James Bond casting calls, 80’s movies sequels, and more! 00:00-16:24: Intro/Venom: Let There Be Carnage 16:25-20:31: Titane 20:32-29:04: Physical Media Picks 29:05-35:23: Tokyo Gore Police 35:24-51:05: TFR Libs 51:06-52:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 01, 2021
TFR Ep. 573: Copshop, The Empty Man, 5 Horror Double Features
This week on The First Run, the bois chat about 'CopShop’. Gerard Butler and an almost unrecognizable Frank Grillo glare it up and make threats in this tough guy action-crime film. Then we kick-off the spooky season with ‘The Empty’ Man," a horror film that hits many different genre beats and ends up in a place completely different from where it started. Do we have an undiscovered horror cult classic in the making? We just might, gentle listeners. We just might. As always, Chris tells you what he thinks the big releases on physical media are, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show is all wrapped up with five horror double features recommendations from each of your esteemed hosts. Don't miss this one or you will be sad and no one wants that. 00:00-11:16: Intro/Copshop 11:17-23:55: Physical Media Picks 23:56-33:40: The Empty Man 33:41-48:37: 5 Horror Double Features 48:38-52:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 24, 2021
TFR Ep. 572: Cry Macho, Karen, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss ‘Cry Macho’, as a now 91 year old Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this neo-Western, but has he aged out of the role? Then BET presents ‘Karen’. A horror film for our times? A misguided cry for action? Or a camp classic? There’s the thrilling review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with another round of everyone’s favorite role-playing segment, ‘Who Dat?!?’! This time featuring Christopher Nolan, Daniel Craig, Kevin Feige, and more! 00:00-10:57: Intro/Cry Macho 10:58-24:50: Physical Media Picks 24:51-38:56: Karen 38:57-1:09:06: Who Dat?!? 1:09:07-1:10:59: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 17, 2021
TFR Ep. 571: Malignant, Kate, 5 Favorite James Wan Scenes
This week on the big show, Chris and Matt discuss James Wan's return to the horror genre, "Malignant." Is this the body horror-Giallo-80's-Euro Horror mash-up that EVERYbody has been clamoring for all these years or is this a case of too many ingredients spoiling the stew? Then our mini-marathon of films with a woman's first name kicks-off with Mary Elizabeth Winsted in "Kate," as MEW Jane Wicks her way across Japan in a Netflix exclusive action flick. As always. Chris runs down the "big" releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. We wrap the show with our Top 5 James Wan Scenes because we know you are just dying to know what we think. You can't wait to listen! 00:00-14:20: Intro/Malignant 14:21-26:29: Physical Media Picks 26:30-34:35: Kate 34:36-42:37: 5 Favorite James Wan Scenes 42:38-44:48: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 10, 2021
TFR Ep. 570: Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings, Stillwater, 5 Favorite MCU Villains
This week on The First Run, Chis and Matt discuss the latest film in the MCU as Phase 4 continues with ‘Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings’. Wait, 10 Rings? Didn’t we see that in Iron Man 3? Does Shang-Chi escape its MCU template, or is it just another ride on the same merry-go-around, again? Then Matt Damon stars in Tom McCarthy’s ‘Stillwater’. After helming a Best Picture winner with ‘Spotlight’, then a Disney+ adaptation of the Timmy Failure book series, McCarthy returns with a fictionalized take of the Amanda Knox story. Or not. There’s the positively delicious review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite MCU Villains. Who makes the cut; Klaw? Blacklash? JJJ?!? Tune in to find out! 00:00-17:14: Intro/Shang Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings 17:15-30:22: Physical Media Picks 30:23-38:41: Stillwater 38:42-49:23: 5 Favorite MCU Villains 49:24-51:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 03, 2021
TFR Ep. 569: Candyman, Harakiri, Samurai Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the softest of soft sequels, Nia Dacosta’s ‘Candyman’. Does this new version live up to the bloody legacy of the first or is this yet another entry in the long line of films that should have been left well enough alone? Then our Samurai Marathon wraps up with Masaki Kobayashi’s ‘Harakiri’. This is apparently one of the best jidaigeki films ever made. Will your esteemed film scholar hosts agree? Most likely but listen to what we have to say anyway! As always we rundown of the important releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Chris and Matt awarding our Palme d’Esposito awards for the Samurai Marathon. If you missed this one, you would bring great shame to your daimyo and your house! 00:00-22:29: Intro/Candyman 22:30-34:16: Physical Media Picks 34:17-45:17: Harakiri 45:18-55:00: Samurai Marathon Awards 55:01-56:03: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 27, 2021
TFR Ep. 568: Reminiscence, The Night House, Spider-Man: No Way Home Trailer, Ugetsu, 5 Favorite Flashbacks
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss ‘Reminiscence’. Hugh Jackman stars in this sci-fi neo-noir as he looks for the missing wrong woman that captured his heart and then disappeared. Will he like what he finds? From the mind of Lisa Joy, one of the creators of HBO’s Westworld. Chris then shares his thoughts about Rebecca Hall and the horror film that’s not quite what you think it is, ‘The Night House’. The Samurai Marathon sort of continues with Kenji Mizoguchi’s ‘Ugetsu’. The classic adaptation of Ueda Akinari's tales ‘The House in the Thicket’ and ‘The Lust of the White Serpent’. There’s some talk of the new ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ trailer. Then the show closes with the guys’ sharing their 5 Favorite Flashbacks in movies! You can save this episode and relive it over and over! 00:00-11:39: Reminiscence 11:40-14:12: The Night House 14:13-22:58: Physical Media Picks 22:59-29:02: Spider-Man: No Way Home Trailer 29:03-34:49: Ugetsu 34:50-53:42: 5 Favorite Flashbacks 53:43-56:01: Wrap Up/Outtake Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 20, 2021
TFR Ep. 567: Free Guy, The Tale Of Zatoichi, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the Ryan Reynolds starred comedy, ‘Free Guy’. Reynolds plays a NPC who gains sentience and begins to long for something more. And it’s funny! Right?!? Then the Samurai Marathon continues with ‘The Tale Of Zatoichi’, the first film in the beloved and long-running series. After the cinematic hurricanes that were the first two entries in the marathon, we get a more contemplative film. Was that better? There’s the marvelous rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The show then closes as Matt and Chris engage in a little gambling with the return of ‘What Are The Odds?’. Will ScarJo win her lawsuit? Will ‘Dune’ at least break even? That and more on this week’s show. 00:00-11:10: Intro/Free Guy 11:11-22:58: Physical Media Picks 22:59-32:42: The Tale Of Zatoichi 32:43-58:32: What Are The Odds? 58:33-59:58: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 13, 2021
TFR Ep. 566: The Suicide Squad, Shogun Assassin, 5 DC Characters Deserving Their Own Movie
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by friend of the show, Sean to breakdown the DCEU’s potential soft reboot with James Gunn’s ‘The Suicide Squad’. Has the DCEU found their path forward? Or is a hard R rated superhero film not exactly the best way to obtain mass appeal? Then our Samurai Marathon continues with the mashup of the first two films in the classic Lone Wolf & Cub films series with ‘Shogun Assassin’. Can this American bastardization actually churn out an entertaining martial arts thriller? There’s the regularly astounding review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt, Chris, and Sean then close out the show by sharing 5 DC Comic Properties Deserving Their Own Movie. Who makes the cut? And can we finally get that Mister Mxyzptlk vs Bat-Mite film we’ve longed for? 00:00-24:03: Intro/The Suicide Squad 24:04-38:22: Physical Media Picks & Criterion UHD 38:23-51:00: Shogun Assassin 51:01-1:17:47: 5 DC Characters Deserving Their Own Movie 1:17:48-1:20:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 06, 2021
TFR Ep. 565: The Green Knight, The Sword Of Doom, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss David Lowery adaptation of a classic 14th century poem of Camelot with ‘The Green Knight’. Dev Patel stars as Gawain on his quest to become a knight and demonstrate all that title’s characteristics. Then our Samurai Marathon begins with Kihachi Okamoto’s ‘The Sword Of Doom’! A tale of a samurai slipping into not just madness, but something darker. There’s the venerable review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris close out the show with a round of Call It. Who would be a worst Indiana Jones? Alan Rickman or Karl Urban? And more! Take listen and find out! 00:00-14:10: Intro/The Green Knight 14:11-22:08: Physical Media Picks 22:09-31:03: The Sword Of Doom 31:04-47:56: Call It! 47:57-49:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 30, 2021
TFR Ep. 564: Snake Eyes, Old, 5 Favorite GI Joe Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the newest film in the GI Joe cinematic universe, ‘Snake Eyes: GI Joe Origins’. We finally get the story behind the franchise’s most popular character as Henry Golden steps into the role. So does the franchise finally get on the right track? Or have the rolled snake eyes again…? (sorry) Then it’s M. Knight Shyamalan’s latest, ‘Old’. In this thriller, a group of people find themselves on a secluded beach, aging very rapidly. How do the escape and what is really going on? And should you care? There’s the venerable rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show by sharing their 5 Favorite GI Joe Characters. And now you know. And knowing is half the battle. 00:00-16:08: Intro/Snake Eyes 16:09-24:24: Physical Media Picks 24:25-35:43: Old 35:44-49:19: 5 Favorite GI Joe Characters 49:20-52:37: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 23, 2021
TFR Ep. 563: Pig, The Tomorrow War, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the anti-John Wick non-revenge film ‘Pig’, featuring Mr. “Yes, I’ll Do It” Nicholas Cage. A man who doesn’t know how to say no to any project, sometimes may find the diamond in the rough. Could this be one of those times…? Then it’s on the Amazon Prime sci-fi actioner, ‘The Tomorrow War’. Chris Pratt leads a fight against aliens. In the FUTURE! So why has Chris Pratt’s favor begun to fall as he is now regularly dead last in the Hollywood Chris’s ranking. There’s the getting entirely too long review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with everyone’s favorite fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs. 00:00-08:41: Intro/Pig 08:42-22:53: Physical Media Picks 22:54-36:42: The Tomorrow War 36:43-58:04: TFR Libs 58:05-59:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 16, 2021
TFR Ep. 562: Black Widow, Luca, 5 Marvel Characters Deserving Their Own Film
This week on The First Run, the MCU experience returns for Chris and Matt as they discuss ‘Black Widow’. After 22 films, 7 of which she is featured, 1 of which she dies, Scarlett Johannsson’s Natasha Romanoff finally gets her own film. Or does she? Then our domination by Disney continues with Pixar’s latest, debuting exclusively on Disney+, ‘Luca’. Sea monsters, kids, Italy! What does the marvelous studio have in store for us this time? There’s the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close the show by sharing 5 Marvel Characters Deserving Their Own Film. We’re looking at you Spot! 00:00-26:54: Intro/Black Widow 26:55-39:17: Physical Media Picks 39:18-47:43: Luca 47:44-1:05:28: 5 Marvel Characters Deserving Their Own Film 1:05:29-1:07:35: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 09, 2021
TFR Ep. 561: Zola, No Sudden Move, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, it’s EXTREME-casting. Tropical storm/Hurricane Elsa is bearing down on Florida and JC of Screenfix is here to once again drive Chris insane. First up, it’s the Twitter thread come to life black comedy road trip epic that is ‘Zola’. Primarily shot locally here in Tampa, Chris hopes to identify all the local spots and see if this whole thing actually works, but is quickly undone by JC’s unique, we’ll say, perspective. Then it’s on to Steven Soderbergh’s latest streaming exclusively on HBOMax, ‘No Sudden Move’. Soderbergh returns to the twisty heist flick featuring a stellar cast out to get their hands on an incredibly dull McGuffin. And more arguments are had. There’re the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The show then wraps with Chris’s first time role playing with a guest in ‘Who Dat’. It’s always awkward the first time. Join us for 90 minutes of entertaining madness as Chris is finally put in his place. 00:00-30:05: Intro/Zola (seriously, 30 minutes) 30:06-43:17: Physical Media Picks 43:18-1:03:20: No Sudden Move 1:03:21-1:25:54: Who Dat?!? 1:25:55-1:29:30: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 02, 2021
TFR Ep. 560: F9, Werewolves Within, 5 Films Improved By Adding Vin Diesel
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt put the pedal to the metal and discuss the latest film in the fast car go boom franchise with ‘F9: The Fast Saga’. What shenanigans can Vin and the family get into on behalf of America? And wait…there’s a long-lost brother?!? What about “family”?!? Then it’s on to the monster who-dun-it, ‘Werewolves Within’, featuring Sam Richardson and Milana Vayntrub. How many people could a werewolf kill if the werewolf could kill people? All of them I guess. But who IS the werewolf…? There’s the always rambunctious review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The big show then closes with 5 Films that could be improved by digitally replacing an actor with Vin Diesel. No the correct answer isn’t “all of them”. 00:00-20:00: Intro/F9 20:01-29:55: Physical Media Picks 29:56-36:37: Werewolves Within 36:38-53:02: 5 Films Improved By Adding Vin Diesel 53:03-54:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 25, 2021
TFR Ep. 559: The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, Prospect, 5 Worst Movie Dads
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the surprise sequel, ‘The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard’. All your favorites return, Ryan Reynolds, Sam Jackson, & Salma Hayek! We can only go up from here! Right…right? [Insert Anakin & Padme meme]. Then it’s on to the sci-fi thriller, ‘Prospect’, featuring First Run Favorite, Pedro Pascal. He’s a not-so-nice guy that ends up teamed with a young woman as they try and find their way home. In space. There’s the rundown of the big releases in Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Matt and Chris sharing their picks for the 5 Worst Movie Dads in honor of this past week’s Father’s day. And also the fact that both films this week have some weird things to say about families. So we’ve got that going for us, I guess. 00:00-11:25: Intro/The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard 11:26-25:30: Physical Media Picks 25:31-37:20: Prospect 37:21-54:30: 5 Worst Movie Dads 54:31-57:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 18, 2021
TFR Ep. 558: In The Heights, The Woman In The Window, 5 Film Improved By Becoming A Musical
This week on The First Run, Matt takes another week off, sunning in the Riviera. So The Lady Wan takes pity on Chris and joins him to discuss ‘In The Heights’. Can a musical save Hollywood, the theatrical experience, and America itself? Then The Lady Wan and Chris discuss adaption of the hit novel, ‘The Woman In The Window’. Just how many times can we remake ‘Rear Window’? This time, it’s Joe Wright’s turn, director of one of the best films of the aughts, ‘Atonement’. There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The celebration ends with Chris and The Lady Wan sharing their 5 Films That Would Be Improved By Becoming A Musical? And no, ‘Halloween’ just wouldn’t work. 00:00-16:53: Intro/In The Heights 16:54-25:30: Physical Media Picks 25:31-35:24: The Woman In The Window 35:25-51:21: 5 Film Improved By Becoming A Musical 51:22-54:07: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 11, 2021
TFR Ep. 557: The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, Oxygen, 5 Horror Films Based On A True Story
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt spend a couple hours in Chris’s favorite decade, the 80’s. It’s 1981 specifically Start Me Up, Stop Dragging My Heart Around, Who’s Crying Now are on the radio. The theaters feature Time Bandits, Escape From New York, The Evil Dead, Stripes. And some whack job gets possessed and kills his landlord, sparking the trial the shocked America. That’s right, it’s The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It. The latest entry in the wildly successful, but extremely hit and miss franchise. Then our horror tour continues with the latest from Alexandre Aja, one of the members of the French Horror New Wave in the early aughts’ latest, ‘Oxygen’, featuring Melanie Laurent. This time Aja dabbles more in the sci-fi/thriller genre, with some shoe-horned in horror to keep the horror buffs placated. There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Horror Films Bases On A True Story. So grab your wooby, curl up by the fire, and settle in for some scares! 00:00-14:41: Intro/The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It 14:42-22:39: Physical Media Picks 22:40-30:21: Oxygen 30:22-47:06: 5 Favorite Horror Films Based On A True Story 47:07-48:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Be Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 04, 2021
TFR Ep. 556: A Quiet Place 2, The Mitchells Vs The Machines, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss John Krasinski’s sequel to the surprise horror hit with ‘A Quiet Place Part II’. This time the Abbott family venture out from their hidden-away home to find any survivors while doing their darndest to be as quiet as possible. But what if those survivors are no longer good people…? Then it’s on to Netflix’s ‘The Mitchells Vs. The Machines’. A struggling family on a road trip end up having to save the world from a robot apocalypse in this animated family comedy. There’s the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes as Matt and Chris play another round of What Are The Odds, featuring James Bond, Indiana Jones, MGM, and more! 00:00-15:42: Intro/A Quiet Place Part 2 15:43-27:18: Physical Media Picks 27:19-35:54: The Mitchells Vs The Machines 35:55-55:56: What Are The Odds?!? 55:57-57:37: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 28, 2021
TFR Ep. 555: Army Of The Dead, Riders Of Justice, 5 Streaming Horror Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with their old buddy Zack Snyder, fresh of his global smash hit, ‘Justice League’, Snyder returns to his roots with his remake of ‘Aliens’. Sorry, sorry, ‘Army Of The Dead’. Teaming with Dave Bautista as the leader of a group infiltrating the zombie held territory that is Las Vegas to pull off a heist that would make Danny Ocean poop himself. Then it’s on to the Danish import, ‘Riders of Justice’. TFR favorite Mads Mikkelsen plays a soldier brought home after an unspeakable accident takes the life of his wife and traumatizes his daughter. But what if it wasn’t an accident? There’s the reasonably reliable review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close the show by sharing 5 Horror gems currently available to stream. 00:00-22:17: Army Of The Dead 22:18-30:14: Physical Media Picks 30:15-37:33: Riders Of Justice 37:34-55:32: 5 Streaming Horror Recommendations 55:33-57:04: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 21, 2021
TFR Ep. 554: Spiral, Those Who Wish Me Dead, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss ‘Spiral: From The Book of Saw’. Chris Rock stars and co-wrote this spin-off that breathes new life into a tired franchise by examining police brutality while capitalizing on the opportunity to have Rock and Sam Jackson play a father/son cop duo. Or maybe it doesn’t do that at all. Then it’s on to Tyler Sheridan’s latest, ‘Those Who Wish Me Dead’. A film that features a rock solid cast from a director know for his adult (non-porn) dramatic thrillers. Is this story of a child on the run from some corrupt government officials and their hired killers who run into tortured fire jumper Angelina Jolie. Plus John Berenthal! There’s the absolutely thrilling review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close the show with another round of Pick ‘Em with Call It! What is Tom Cruise’s definitive role? 00:00-16:11: Intro/Spiral 16:12-27:29: Physical Media Picks 27:30-37:51: Those Who Wish Me Dead 37:52-51:49: Call It! 51:50-54:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 14, 2021
TFR Ep. 553: Wrath Of Man, Unhinged, 5 Great Streaming Action Films
This week on The First Run, Matt is away, so Chris is joined by his ScreenRun colleague, The Lady Wan , to discuss Guy Ritchie’s and Jason Statham’s latest team-up, the revenge/heist/actioner ‘Wrath Of Man’. Statham plays a bank truck driver who may be more than he appears. Expect lots of bodies, blood, and nastiness. But is it a fun watch? Then it’s the Russell Crowe led thriller, ‘Unhinged’. Crowe does his version of the Michael Douglas/’Falling Down’ thing. But is the cranked-up-to-11 nastiness rob of the film of its potentially pulpy charms? There’s the always riveting rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with The Lady Wan and Chris sharing some of their favorite Action Films Currently Streaming. Let’s kick some ass! 00:00-15:28: Intro/Wrath Of Man 15:29-24:18: Physical Media Picks 24:19-36:27: Unhinged 36:28-55:40: 5 Great Streaming Action Films 55:41-58:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 07, 2021
TFR Ep. 552: Another Round, Shiva Baby, 5 Favorite Alcohol Related Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt set ‘em up and knock ‘em down as they discuss this year’s Best International Feature winner at The Oscars, ‘Another Round’. TFR favorite Mads Mikkelson stars as one of four teachers that experiment with alcohol to improve their lives as they face a mid-life crisis. Ahhh, sweet, sweet booze. Then Chris spends 10 minutes or so completely naïve of the different definitions of “shiva” as he and Matt review the indie cringe comedy of the decade, ‘Shiva Baby’. There’s the terrifingly wonderful rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show with their 5 Favorite Alcohol Related Scenes. Chug! Chug! Chug! Chug! 00:00-15:31: Intro/Another Round 15:32-26:18: Physical Media Picks 26:19-37:28: Shiva Baby 37:29-57:05: 5 Favorite Alcohol Related Scenes 57:06-59:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 30, 2021
TFR Ep. 551: Mortal Kombat, Grave Of The Fireflies, Studio Ghibli Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt try to discover their arcana and prepare to FIGHT as they discuss the ‘Mortal Kombat’ reboot. Most of your favorites are here. With the appropriate representation this time! So do we finally have a TOASTY video game adaptation that’s a FLAWLESS VICTORY? Or is it just another BRUTALITY? We’re hoping for a FRIENDSHIP. (Listen, Chris said there would be no Mortal Kombat puns during their discussion. Write-ups are a whole different story). Then the Studio Ghibli Marathon wraps up with the legendary ‘Grave Of The Fireflies’. With a reputation as being one of the saddest films ever made, will Matt and Chris get through it without bawling like they’ve just suffered from a BABALITY? There’s the big rundown of the important releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Chris and Matt revealing their winners of our Studio Ghibli Marathon Awards. So…GET OVER HERE!!! 00:00-15:46: Intro/Mortal Kombat 15:47-24:42: Physical Media Picks 24:43-32:59: 2021 Oscars Recap 33:00-42:49: Grave Of The Fireflies 42:50-52:45: Studio Ghibli Marathon Awards 52:46-54:07: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter instagram Facebook
Fri, April 23, 2021
TFR Ep. 550: Concrete Cowboy, My Neighbor Tortoro, 2021 Oscar Predictions
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt saddle up with some cowhands in the streets of…northern Philadelphia(?!?) in ‘Concrete Cowboy’. Idris Elba appears along-side Caleb McLaughlin in this family, coming of age drama. Are horses the key to growth, or is there something deeper going on? Then the end of our Studio Ghibli Marathon is in sight with our penultimate film, ‘My Neighbor Tortoro’. The story of a family resettling after a family illness and the woodland spirits they befriend. There’s the wholesome and loving review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris close out the big show with their 2021 Oscars Predictions. Find out who will win and who should have won. All this and more, on this episode of The First Run. 00:00-12:03: Intro/Concrete Cowboy 12:04-22:10: Physical Media Picks 22:11-31:33: My Neighbor Totoro 31:34-50:17: 2021 Oscars Picks 50:18-52:42: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 16, 2021
TFR Ep. 549: The Father, Howl’s Moving Castle, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the last Best Picture nominee they hadn’t seen. Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman star in ‘The Father’. Up for a ton of awards and is slowly becoming the dark horse for its nominations, can the film turn Matt around on his disdain for play adaptations? Then the Studio Ghibli Marathon continues with ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, this time featuring the voice talents of Emily Mortimer, Lauren Bacall, and Christian Bale (much to the surprise of Matt). There’s the exhilaration rundown of the big releases on the physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with Matt and Chris playing another thrilling around of our fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs, featuring Kevin Smith’s NFT project, a perfect solve for the Black Panther matter, and more. As if that wasn’t enough, included is a clip from the new project featuring The Lady Wan and Chris, ScreenRun! So settle in, grab a whiskey, and let your mind wander as we listen to another episode of The First Run! 00:00-12:48: Intro/The Father 12:49-19:00: Physical Media Picks 19:01-32:11: Howl’s Moving Castle 32:12-1:00:44: TFR Libs 1:00:45-1:01:48: Wrap Up 1:01:49-1:09:32: ScreenRun Preview Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, April 09, 2021
TFR Ep. 548: Godzilla Vs. Kong, Princess Mononoke, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with the 4th film in the new Monster-verse series, and it’s all been building to this. The Avengers: Endgame of modern Godzilla films is here with Godzilla Vs. Kong. Massive kaiju fights, poor characterization, loud! But is it good? Then the Studio Ghibli Marathon continues with ‘Princess Mononoke’. More woke ideology about wolf kids and saving a forest. Plus demons and curses. Hail satan. A landmark animated film from 1997, surely put to shame by the modern technological standards. Like Pixar or go home, right Bro? There’s the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! The big show then closes with the return of everyone’s favorite role playing game, Who Dat?!?. Matt, bring out the gimp suit. 00:00-15:41: Intro/Godzilla Vs. Kong 15:42-24:38: Physical Media Picks 24:39-35:53: Princess Mononoke 35:54-55:11: Who Dat?!? 55:12-56:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 26, 2021
TFR Ep. 546: Zack Snyder’s Justice League, DCEU Future And Ranking
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the film that shall not be named. After years of social media pressure and a streaming service’s need for attention grabbing content, it’s actually a thing. It’s time to breakdown ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’. After that it’s a review of the DCEU’s next steps, if any. Plus all of the films are ranked. There’s still time to squeeze in the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. So after you’ve fired up that streaming device and soaked in the 4 hours of Justice League, hang out with us for the breakdown. My man! 00:00-35:35: Intro/Zack Snyder’s Justice League 35:36-41:21: Physical Media Picks 41:22-01:08:53: DCEU Future and Ranking 01:08:54-01:09:56: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 19, 2021
TFR Ep. 545: Psycho Goreman, Monster Hunter, Love and Monsters, 2021 Oscars Nominees
It’s monster week on The First Run! Chris and Matt prepare to do battle, or simply just survive a triumvirate of monster movies. The first beast unleashed is ‘Psycho Goreman’, a film that has the bacony stink of Canada all over it as a ruthless alien bad ass comes under the thrall of an entirely too bossy tween girl. Then power couple Milla Jovovich and Paul WS Anderson returns with another video game adaptation, ‘Monster Hunter’. This time Milla and her military unit get transported to another world filled with monsters and martial arts star Tony Jaa and surfer Ron Perlman. Our last stop on our monster tour brings us to a post-apocalyptic Earth as we join a young man on a quest to see his true love, and all the wacky hijinks and terrifying creatures he experiences on the way in ‘Love And Monsters’. There’s the absolutely gorgeous rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show closes with the Matt and Chris sharing their thoughts on this year’s recently announced Oscar nominations! So how about that Delory Lindo…? 00:00-10:32: Intro/Psycho Goreman 10:33-17:56: Monster Hunter 17:57-29:03: Physical Media Picks 29:04-36:00: Love And Monsters 36:01-58:13: 2021 Oscar Noms 58:14-1:00:33: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook Chris accidentally attributes that Vox article on the Supporting Actor noms for Judas And The Black Messiah to Danielle Solzman when it was actually Emily vanDerWerff. There goes another intern.
Fri, March 12, 2021
TFR Ep. 544: Coming 2 America, Greenland, 5 Movie Fictional Products
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the sequel to one of the more beloved comedies of the 80’s,’Coming 2 America’. Can the film possibly recapture what made the original so beloved? Or is the sequel not only too late, but unwarranted? Then Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin star in the disaster film, ‘Greenland’. But when is a disaster film not just a disaster film? There’s the ridiculously entertaining rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show wraps as Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Fictional Movie Products. D Terminators count? 00:00-11:11: Intro/Coming 2 America 11:12-21:31: Physical Media Picks 21:32-30:52: Greenland 30:53-46:42: 5 Favorite Movie Fictional Products 46:43-48:43: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, March 05, 2021
TFR Ep. 543: Minari, I Care A Lot, The Lounge
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt finally leave it all behind and head out to Arkansas to start a new life as farmers and see how the Yi family is doing in ‘Minari’. Critically acclaimed with some controversy. Just what we like to hear. Then after spending some time with a potentially heart-warming family drama, it’s back to New England as I attempt to get Matt confined to an assisted living facility to take over his assets, some could say ‘steal’, with my new best gal pal, Rosamund Pike in ‘I Care A Lot’. There’s the venerable review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with Matt and Chris kicking back and discussing some of the big headlines in film including Pedro Pascal, a black Superman, and Cancel Culture. 00:00-12:18: Intro/Minari 12:19-19:18: Physical Media Picks 19:19-28:14: I Care A Lot 28:15-1:01:18: The Lounge 1:01:19-1:02:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 26, 2021
TFR Ep. 542: Nomadland, Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt settle in with a nice, steaming bowl of hot dog soup and checked out two powerful stories about 3 dynamic women dealing with challenges in their own, unique ways. First up, Chloe Zhao brings us ‘Nomadland’, featuring Frances McDormand. McDormand plays a person on the outskirts of life, struggling to survive and connect with a world she no longer feels a part of. But does she even want that connection? Then it’s on to Florida via Nebraska with Barb and Starbara and their trip to Vista Del Mar in ‘Barb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar’. Funny stuff or cringey non-comedy? There’s the venerable review of the big releases on Physical Media, with the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris close out the show with another round of the life or death game of Call It! 00:00-15:31: Intro/Nomadland 15:32-21:59: Physical Media Picks 22:00-30:59: Barb And Star Go To Vista Del Mar 31:00-50:58: Call It! 50:59-52:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 19, 2021
TFR Ep. 541: Judas And The Black Messiah, Saint Maud, What Are The Odds?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss a couple films that may indeed stick with you for a long time to come. First up, Shaka King tells the story of Fred Hampton, chairman of the Illinois Black Panther Party, and his shocking assassination assisted by a member of his organization with ‘Judas And The Black Messiah’. Then from Chicago to an unnamed English seaside town, we spend time with Maud, a private care nurse who has an unreasonable affection for the Lord, and is ready to save you at all costs… There’s the super keen rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Steaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then close out the show by playing another round of What Are The Odds?!? 00:00-18:08: Intro/Judas And The Black Messiah 18:09-29:54: Physical Media Picks 29:55-38:36: Saint Maud 38:37-56:42: What Are The Odds?!? 56:43-58:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 12, 2021
TFR Ep. 540: The Little Things, Wolfwalkers, 5 Best Movie Cops Since 2000
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt settle in and wrap themselves up in a comfy blanket that is the Denzel thriller. This time out its ‘The Little Things’, Denzel plays a semi-retired cop who’s brought back to his former city and dragged into a mystery that reminds him of a case that’s haunted him for years. Plus Rami Malek and Jared Leto! Then it’s on to the Irish animated folktale, ‘Wolfwalkers’. It’s 1650 in Ireland and Sean Bean (who may or may not die in this one) and his daughter are brought to Kilkenny to take out the local wolf population so the settlers can farm the forest. But there’s something out there…walking with the wolves. There’s shockingly fun review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Cops since 2000. 00:00-13:24: Intro/The Little Things 13:25-22:12: Physical Media Picks 22:13-29:44: Wolfwalkers 29:45-46:05: 5 Best Movie Cops Since 2000 46:06-47:25: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, February 05, 2021
TFR Ep. 539: Sundance 2021 Review, Top 10 of 2020 (5-1)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt, clearly flush with cash, buy their way into the Sundance Film Festival! Chris and Matt settle in to the great white, West (?) and checked out ‘Censor’, ‘Eight For Silver’, and ‘Prisoners Of The Ghostland’. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Matt also saw ‘John And the Hole’, ‘In the Earth’, ‘Wild Indian’, ‘Strawberry Mansion’, ‘First Date’, and ‘The Blazing World’. Wow. There’s the truly wonderful and extensive rundown of the big releases on home video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. And if that’s not enough, Matt and Chris close out there 10 Favorite Films Of 2020, featuring picks 5-1. 00:00-08:29: Intro/Censor 08:30-13:46: Eight For Silver 13:47-22:06: Prisoners of Ghostland 22:07-29:42: Physical Media Picks 29:43-31:58: First Date 31:59-34:40: John And The Hole 34:41-37:27: In The Earth 37:28-40:00: Strawberry Mansion 40:01-43:13: Wild Indian 43:14-46:23: The Blazing World 46:24-01:04:10: 10 Favorite Films Of 2020 (5-1) 01:04:11-01:05:16: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, January 29, 2021
TFR Ep. 538: One Night In Miami, Sylvie’s Love, Top 10 of 2020, Pt. 1: 10-6
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take head down to southern Florida and spend ‘One Night In Miami’. Regina King’s adaption of the play brings Malcom X, Muhammad Ali, Sam Cooke, and James Brown together to tackle the lives and obligations to the struggle. Can Matt be won over after expressing last week his disdain for play adaptations? Then it’s over to NYC in the early 60’s for ‘Sylvie’s Love’. Tessa Thompson stars in this throwback to the romance films of that era. But can any of us find true love and happiness? There’s the always stupendous review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the week. The show then closes with Matt and Chris beginning to share their favorite films of 2020. First up is part 1; films 10-6! Will your favorites make the list? Listen on to find out! 00:00-13:18: Intro/One Night In Miami 13:19-23:47: Physical Media Picks 23:48-32:35: Sylvie’s Love 32:36-46:09: Top 10 Films Of 2020, Pt. 1: 10-6 46:10-48:44: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, January 22, 2021
TFR Ep. 537: Promising Young Woman, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Top 5 Favorite Play To Film Adaptations
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt continue their 2020 catch up with a discussion of Emerald Fennell’s ‘Promising Young Woman’, featuring Carey Mulligan and Bo Burnham. One of Chris’ most anticipated films of last year, Is Promising Young Woman a thin, overly preachy melodrama? Or an artistic work that demands potentially uncomfortable conversations. Then it’s on to Chadwick Boseman and Viola Davis in George Wolfe’s ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. The adaptation of August Wilson’s play features Boseman’s final performance and tackles themes that transcend it’s 1927 time period. A gorgeous film, but does it translate well to the big screen? There’s the truly wonderous review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with their 5 Favorite Play Adaptations. 00:00-14:12: Intro/Promising Young Woman 14:13-23:14: Physical Media Picks 23:15-30:25: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom 30:26-46:41: Top 5 Favorite Play To Film Adaptations 46:42-48:06: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook Jordan Crucchiola’s PYW Twitter Review Thread Marybeth McAndrews Roger Ebert Review
Fri, January 15, 2021
TFR Ep. 536: The 40 Year Old Version, Bacarau, 2021 Netflix Preview
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Radha Blank’s ‘The 40 Year Old Version’, now on Netflix. The story of a struggling playwright in New York City as she deals with the loss of her mother, considers selling out, until she is spared by a possible new endeavor. Then Matt and Chris jet on down to Brazil and visit the small village of Bacarau, where something truly strange is afoot. There’s the fun AND informative rundown of the major releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD an Streaming Picks of the Week. The guys then close out the show with their 2021 Netflix preview. Can the Rock, Gal Gadot, and Ryan Reynolds sell us all on some more straight to DVD level goodness? 00:00-14:14: Intro/The 40 Year Old Version 14:15-25:31: Physical Media Picks 25:32-32:59: Bacarau 33:00-47:39: 2021 Netflix Preview 47:40-49:58: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, January 08, 2021
TFR Ep. 535: Soul, The Midnight Sky, 5 Favorite Films Directed By An Actor
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt celebrate the New Year with some ‘Soul’ and some Clooney. First up, Pixar’s latest film ‘Soul’ is live on Disney+ without an additional fee. Joe Gardner is a middle school music teacher who meets a fortunate not-quite end. Is he able to force a second chance or is he destined to burn in the pits of hell for all eternity? Something like that. Then Matt and Chris discuss the George Clooney helmed picture, ‘The Midnight Sky’. Clooney is possibly the only survivor of a doomed planet desperate to communicate to a group of astronauts on their way back to Earth that maybe they may want to pull a u-turn and head out somewhere else. But can he do it in time? And is he alone…? There’s the ravishing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with Chris and Matt sharing the 5 Favorite Films Directed By An Actor. So let’s crank this baby up to 11 and start the festivities. 00:00-12:31: Intro/Soul 12:32-20:22: Physical Media Picks 20:23-31:22: The Midnight Sky 31:23-52:00: 5 Favorite Films Directed By An Actor 52:01-53:28: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, January 01, 2021
TFR Ep. 534: Wonder Woman 1984, Salò, Banned Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss a pair of films about corruption, one potentially full of fun in a time not so long past, and the other being Wonder Woman 1984. Yep, our banned marathon concludes with Salo. A film with one of the worst reputations ever. Does it live up to its infamy? There will be the short review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes with our Banned Marathon “Awards”, such as they are.... So let’s start with the past continuing adventures of one Diana Prince. 00:00-21:34: Wonder Woman 1984 21:35-27:04: Physical Media Picks 27:05-43:35: Salò, Or The 120 Days Of Sodom 43:36-52:36: Banned Marathon Awards 52:37-54:43: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 25, 2020
TFR Ep. 533: Mulan, Cannibal Holocaust, 5 Films For 2021
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss possibly the greatest double feature of all time. First up, Disney’s live action adaptation of the classic animated film ‘Mulan’. Initially available on Disney+ at a premium price of $29.99 on top of the required membership, it’s now included at that base $7/$8 price tag. Was it worth the wait or were we smart to pocket those $30 for other, more inappropriate expenses? Then, we take a sharp left turn into the green inferno that is Ruggero Dedato’s ‘Cannibal Holocaust’, as our Banned Marathon continues to be the cherry on top of this hellish sundae of a year. We’re talking week old ground beef, a banana peel, some hot dog water and a worn-out tennis shoe. But is there a moral message for us to hang onto like a raft in a tsunami of horrible? There’s the super-tight rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap up the show with 5 films they’re looking forward to in 2021. Happy Holidays! 00:00-14:01: Intro/Mulan 14:02-17:57: Physical Media Picks 17:58-34:38: Cannibal Holocaust 34:39-52:47: 5 Films For 2021 52:48-56:40: Chris On Top Gun 56:41-57:45: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter I nstagram Facebook
Fri, December 18, 2020
TFR EP. 532: Sound Of Metal, Pink Flamingos, TFR Lounge
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt rock out with their podcast out as they discuss Riz Ahmed and his turn in ‘Sound Of Metal’. This Amazon Prime original about a drummer quickly losing his hearing and possibly having to give up the life he loves is getting a lot of buzz on the interwebs, but is the film truly Oscar worthy? Then the banned marathon continues with John Waters’ debut film, ‘Pink Flamingos’. Just when you thought it was safe to watch someone eat a little bit of dog poo. Clearly, that’s infamous moment is as “filthy” as the film gets, right?!? Please?!? There’s the sparklingly clean rundown of the all the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show wraps with the return of The Lounge where Matt and Chris discuss all the new Disney+ news, Tom Cruise’s Covid rant, ‘Wonder Woman 1984’, and more. “We are the gold standard!”, so go ahead and give it a listen. 00:00-11:49: Intro/Sound Of Metal 11:50-18:40: Physical Media Picks 18:41-29:36: Pink Flamingos 29:37-1:06:50: TFR Lounge 1:06:51-1:07:42: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 11, 2020
TFR Ep. 531: Mank, The Devils, 5 Films That Got Away In 2020
On this episode of The First Run, it’s true-ish stories week! Chris and Matt discuss David Fincher’s ‘Mank’. Fincher’s film focuses on Herman J. Mankiewicz, the screenwriter of what some consider the greatest film ever made, ‘Citizen Kane’. A brilliant writer and drunk, we ride along with Mank has he traverses the highs and pitfalls of old Hollywood and his own personal demons, while writing the classing film. Then the Banned Marathon continues with more sacrilegious cinema. This time, it’s Ken Russell’s ‘The Devils’. A film dramatizing the fall of the Roman Catholic priest Urbain Grandier as he runs afoul of Cardinal Richelieu’s ambitions. And that’s as tame as I can explain it. There’s the stunningly wonderful review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The show then closes as Matt and Chris share the 5 Films That Got Away and were postponed to 2021. 00:00-14:31: Intro/Mank 14:32-35:22: Physical Media Picks/Warner Bros.& HBOMax 35:23-47:13: The Devils 47:14-1:03:19: 5 Films That Got Away In 2020 1:03:20-1:04:39: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, December 04, 2020
TFR Ep. 530: The Trial Of The Chicago 7, The Last Temptation Of Christ, 5 Favorite Scorsese Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take an oath to tell you the truth, and mostly just the truth, about Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of ‘The Trial Of The Chicago 7’. Court room dramas are a staple of the drama genre and Sorkin’s scripts are typically filled with those rousing moments. Is this a winner, or are we all guilty. Then the Banned Marathon begins with Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Last Temptation Of Christ’. Banned and censored in numerous countries, how offensive and blasphemous is the adaption of Nikos Kazantzakis’ novel? There’s the thrilling review of the major releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Matt and Chris then close the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Martin Scorsese Scenes. So go get your shine box and dial up the latest episode of The First Run. 00:00-09:41: Intro/The Trial Of The Chicago 7 09:42-21:54: Physical Media Picks 21:55-34:46: The Last Temptation Of Christ 34:47-51:47: 5 Favorite Scorsese Scenes 51:48-52:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 27, 2020
TFR Ep. 529: Dick Johnson Is Dead, Enola Holmes, 2020 Gift Guide
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the documentary, ‘Dick Johnson Is Dead’, the first one in quite a while due to Chris’ loose ban on the genre. Does ‘Dick Johnson Is Dead’ show Chris the error of his ways? Then it’s on to Sherlock Holmes fanfic ‘Enola Holmes’, that answers the question, what if Sherlock also a younger sister with the ability to move things with her mind and fight demons from another dimension. Wait, that’s not right. There’s the exhilarating rundown of the big releases on physical media featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Then with holidays upon us, it’s time for the 2020 Gift Guide for the Movie Lover in your life! Or just you. 00:00-10:01: Intro/Dick Johnson Is Dead 10:02-18:23: Physical Media Picks 18:24-25:13: Enola Holmes 25:14-41:20: 2020 Holiday Gift Guide 41:22-43:41: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 20, 2020
TFR Ep. 528: Peninsula, #Alive, Call It!
This week on The First Run, it’s all aboard the Train To Busan again! This time, Chris and Matt visit what’s affectionately known as the ‘Peninsula’. Just what have those kooky zombies been up to in South Korea all this time? Then they’re tour of South Korea continues with Netflix’s #Alive. This time your trapped in your home as zombie hordes overrun your town. How will you survive? What will you eat and drink? And are you able to make any friends along the way? There’s the stunningly entertaining rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then our international tour ends with the return of Call It! Matt and Chris have some tough choices to make. Will they be the right ones. So, last call! The train is leaving the station… 00:00-10:05: Peninsula 10:06-18:02: Physical Media Picks 18:03-25:26: #Alive 25:27-49:01: Call It! 49:02-51:39: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 13, 2020
TFR Ep. 527: His House, 1BR, 5 Favorite Haunted House Movies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt go apartment hunting with their pals from Netflix. First up is ‘His House’, the story of refugees from war-torn South Sudan area as they try to adapt to a new life in the U.K., while someone… or something may have followed them. If things don’t work out there, Matt and Chris head on over to LA to see what’s shaking at this ‘1BR’ in this apartment complex that’s worked hard to build a community. Really hard actually. There’s the always delightful rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Weekk. The show then wraps with Chris and Matt sharing their 5 Favorite Haunted House films not named ‘The Shining’. Wait… did you hear that…? Don’t turn around! 00:00-08:29: Intro/His House 08:30-21:04: Physical Media Picks 21:05-25:43: 1BR 25:44-41:24: 5 Favorite Haunted House Movies 41:25-42:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, November 06, 2020
TFR Ep. 526: On The Rocks, Asylum, Top 5 Favorite Bill Murray Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Sofia Coppola’s ‘On The Rocks’, an Apple+ exclusive. Bill Murray reunites with Coppola, previously working together on the fantastic ‘Lost In Translation’. In this venture, Rashida Jones and Marlon Wayans join as a couple whose marriage is potentially dissolving. Murray plays Jones’ father and the two team up to find out of Wayans’ character has been unfaithful, while trying to work out their own family issues. Then our sorta’ Horror Anthology Marathon wraps up with the Amicus classic (maybe?) ‘Asylum’. Chris has been pushing for an Amicus film from the beginning, was it the right choice. There’s the reliable rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show then wraps with Chris and Matt sharing their top 5 Favorite Bill Murray scenes. We got that going for us, which is nice… 00:00-14:44: Intro/On The Rocks 14:45-25:56: Physical Media Picks 25:57-37:19: Asylum 37:20-49:16: Top 5 Favorite Bill Murray Scenes 49:17-51:06: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 30, 2020
TFR Ep. 525: Borat Subsequent Movie Film, The Mortuary Collection, TFR Libs (Horror Edition)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt catch up with their old pal Borat in ‘Borat Subsequent MovieFilm. This time, Borat is sent to America to present Trump with a gift, his daughter. Or is he…? Does lightning strike twice as we revisit a character whose last film made Chris laugh so hard he cried? Then our makeshift Horror Anthology Movie Marathon carries on with Shudder’s ‘The Mortuary Collection’. Always notoriously hit or miss, how do these tales measure up? There’s the oddly satisfying rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show wraps with the return of our fill-in-the-blank game, featuring all horror topics in celebration of Halloween. It’s very nice! 00:00-15:02: Intro/Borat Subsequent MovieFilm 15:03-23:34: Physical Media Picks 23:35-32:34: The Mortuary Collection 32:35-55:29: TFR Libs (Horror Edition) 55:30-56:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 23, 2020
TFR Ep. 524: Possessor Uncut, Scare Me, Top 5 Possession Movies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Brandon Cronenberg’s ‘Possessor’. And the emotional toll it took on Chris’ soul. Brandon has an interesting take on an elite assassination team. Then our non-marathon of Horror Anthology Films continues with ‘Scare Me’. A couple of crazy kids hang out in a remote cabin after the power goes and tell each other scary stories and all the fun that entails. Until there is no fun. There’s the reliable review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then Matt and Chris wrap up the show by sharing 5 of their Favorite Possession movies, with Chris adding his ridiculous caveats as always. 00:00-10:41: Intro/Possessor Uncut 10:42-22:32: Physical Media Picks 22:33-30:13: Scare Me 30:14-47:53: 5 Great Possession Films 47:54-49:04: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 16, 2020
TFR Ep. 523: The Vast Of Night, Ghost Stories, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the low budget sci-fi thriller, ‘The Vast Of Night’. It’s in the 1950’s in Cayuga, New Mexico. And something strange is afoot. Weird sounds are being captured by the local telephone operator who then enlists her deejay pal to try and figure out what’s going on… Then the Halloween festivities begin with the British horror anthology film, ‘Ghost Stories’. It’s the beginning of a month of horror anthologies, a genre that misses more than it hits. Matt and Chris are hoping for the best. There’s the discussion of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show full of scares wraps up with another round of ‘Call It’, featuring hard decisions focusing on the future of AMC, the newly announced Green Lantern series, the Furiousa Mad Max prequel, and more! 00:00-08:05: Intro/The Vast Of Night 08:06-14:01: Physical Media Picks 14:02-23:43: Ghost Stories 23:44-40:22: Call It! 40:23-42:38: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 09, 2020
TFR Ep. 522: Verotika, Chinatown, Neo-Noir Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run… listen. Matt and I love horror anthologies. And Shudder premiered Glenn Danzig’s anthology, ‘Verotika’ awhile back. We’ve heard…things and decided we needed to check it out for ourselves. The film features three tales of terror, loosely linked by…hell, we don’t know. Then our Neo-Noir Marathon wraps with 1974’s ‘Chinatown’. Jack Nicholson plays the hard-boiled detective stuck in the middle of a governmental corruption scheme, as well as some truly horrifying family matters. Which of course means it’s time for our Marathons Awards. And we’ll undoubtably review the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD films of the week. So settle in, crank ‘MOTHER!’ and listen to the latest episode of The First Run. 00:00-14:27: Intro/Verotika 14:28-35:30: Physical Media Picks & News 35:31-44:54: Chinatown 44:55-52:14: Neo-Noir Marathon Awards 52:15-54:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, October 02, 2020
TFR Ep. 521: First Cow, Phoenix, 5 Best Movie Betrayals
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt head out west for Kelly Reichardt’s latest film, ‘First Cow’. A simple story about companionship against the harsh world of national expansion in the early 1800’s. Then the Neo-Noir Marathon continues with its penultimate film, ‘Phoenix’. The German film tells the story of a concentration camp survivor desperate to reunite with the man that may have betrayed her to the Nazi’s. It’s a dramatic thriller with stunning stakes and an ending you won’t soon forget. There’s the regularly reliable rundown of the big picks in physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Matt and Chris then wrap the show by sharing their 5 Favorite Betrayals in Cinema. Will Chris list Alec Trevelyn more than once? And how many Star Wars references will be made? There’s only one way to find out, dear listener… 00:00-10:45: Intro/Top Cow 10:46-20:23: Physical Media Picks 20:24-28:09: Phoenix 28:10-38:12: 5 Best Movie Betrayals 38:13-39:43: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 25, 2020
TFR Ep. 520: The Devil All The Time, The Handmaiden, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, we’re discussing the Netflix original, ‘The Devil All The Time’, featuring an all-star cast of Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Haley Bennet, Riley Keough, Mia Wasikowska, Bill Skarsgård, and more! Does this rural thriller about intertwining lives linked by disaster and violence live up to its epic aspirations? Then our Neo-Noir Marathon continues with Park Chan-wook’s ‘The Handmaiden’, a story of love and betrayal in Japanese occupied Korea. With a career of truly stunning work, does Chan-wook continues his streak of unforgettable films? The guys then share the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then wrap up the show with a round of What Are The Odds?. Is Tom Hardy the new James Bond? What other films will be delayed? And what’s being going on with TFR favorite Gina Carano lately? All this and more, on the latest episode of The First Run? 00:00-10:04: Intro/The Devil All The Time 10:05-19:17: Physical Media Picks 19:18-27:19: The Handmaiden 27:20-45:14: What Are The Odds? 45:15-46:39: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 18, 2020
TFR Ep. 519: I’m Thinking Of Ending Things, Cape Fear, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt embark on a double feature centering around loss. So prepare for some good times! First up, Charlie Kaufman of ‘Being John Malkovich’, ‘Adaptation’, ‘Synecdoche, New York’, returns with the Netflix original, ‘I’m Thinking Of Ending Things’. A film that confounds and…entertains…? Then our Neo-Noir Marathon continues with Martin Scorsese’s adaptation of ‘The Executioners’, or more precisely, a remake of J. Lee Thompson’s original version from 1962. Does Scorsese’s loving interpretation work, or is it too much homage? There’s the reliably information AND entertaining rundown of the big release on home video, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the big show wraps with Matt and Chris getting all down and spicy with another round of your favorite role-playing game, Who Dat?!? Or is it Chris and Matt..? Or is Matt just a projection in Chris’ mind..? Only one way to find out beloved listener… 00:00-14:08: Intro/I’m Thinking Of Ending Things 14:09-23:48: Physical Media Picks 23:49-31:46: Cape Fear (91) 31:47-51:01: Who Dat?!? 51:02-52:03: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 11, 2020
TFR Ep. 518: Tenet, The Grifters, 5 Best Christopher Nolan Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt make a potentially catastrophic decision to go back to the theaters and watch Christopher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’. Nolan’s not quite time travel, sci-fi spy film is finally here after numerous delays due to Covid and his potentially reckless insistence that it be released in theaters. Granted our hosts did both go see it. So was it worth Matt and Chris potentially risking their lives? (Of course not.). But was it good? Then the Neo-Noir Marathon kicks off with Stephen Frears’ ‘The Grifters’. Angelica Huston, John Cusack, and Annette Bening star in this story of con folks doing whatever they have to to survive. There’s the always entertaining rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then wraps up with Chris and Matt sharing their 5 Favorite Christopher Nolan Scenes! Which one of your favorites will make the cut, if any! [insert loud Zimmer drum sounds here] 00:00-17:11: Intro/Tenet 17:12-25:55: Physical Media Picks 25:56-35:53: The Grifters 35:54-47:44: Top 5 Christopher Nolan Scenes 47:45-48:44: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, September 04, 2020
TFR Ep. 517: Bill & Ted Face The Music, The New Mutants, TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by the Crooked Table podcast’s Robert Yaniz Jr. and catch up with old friends with the return of Bill S. Preston, Esquire and Ted ‘Theodore’ Logan in ‘Bill & Ted Face The Music’. It’s been almost 30 years since we last saw our intrepid heroes. Have the finally united the universe in song? Then it’s on to a film many thought would never be released…and after all of this, should it have been? That’s right, it’s the long-delayed ‘The New Mutants’. Dani Moonstar and friends tackle a terrifying presence that can manifest their deepest fears. But could this evil be coming from within the house?!? There’s the deliriously reliable rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then the show closes with the return of everyone’s favorite fill-in-the-blank game, TFR Libs. Christopher Nolan demanding ‘Tenet’ get released in theaters only is _____. And more! 00:00-18:00: Intro/Bill & Ted Face The Music 18:01-28:39: Physical Media Picks 28:40-45:01: The New Mutants 45:02-01:17:45: TFR Libs 01:17:46-01:18:55: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 28, 2020
TFR Ep. 516: Sputnik, The Assistant, DC Fandrome, Top 5 Whistleblower Films
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt travel back in time in preparation of next week’s ‘Bill and Ted Face The Music’ episode and accidently end up in Soviet Kazakhstan in 1983. Turns out a couple of cosmonauts crash landed there with a third, unidentified passenger and things are NOT going well. We’re discussing the Russian import, ‘Sputnik’. Then it’s quantum leap 2019 as Julia Garner portrays Jane. An assistant at a film production company dreaming of being a producer. Unfortunately, there’s something very Miramaxy about this company. There’s the venerable rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show wraps with Matt and Chris listing their Top 5 Favorite Whistleblower Films. 00:00-09:47: Intro/Sputnik 09:48-19:43: Physical Media Picks 19:44-36:33: DC Fandrome 36:34-43:08: The Assistant 43:09-56:33: Top 5 Whistleblower Films 56:34-58:44: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 21, 2020
TFR Ep. 515: The Beach House, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story Of Fire Saga, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt take a little time for themselves, kick back, and head to ‘The Beach House’. But what fresh horror awaits them there from the dark depths of the ocean? Then it’s on to ‘Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga’. Will Farrell and Rachel McAdams play an Icelandic musical duo that finally have their big chance to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest. Will hilarity ensue? There’s the always sometimes entertaining review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with the return of Call It! What insane decisions will Matt and Chris have to make this week? Who was the better Catwoman? Which Christopher Nolan film is the best? Listen on to find out, true believer! 00:00-08:16: Intro/The Beach House 08:17-17:40: Physical Media Picks 17:41-25:28: Eurovison 25:29-49:44: Call It! 49:45-50:30: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 14, 2020
TFR Ep. 514: Palm Springs, Big Man Japan, International Sci-Fi Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt decide to take it easy and watch the latest time loop comedy, ‘Palm Springs’. If any genre of comedy is in danger of repeating itself… Is ‘Palm Springs’ able to provide a fresh take, or are we stuck with the same repetitive jokes? Then the International Sci-Fi Marathon wraps with the Japanese import, ‘Big Man Japan’. With the most unsettling kaiju we’ve seen, does this mockumentary deliver the thrills and the laughs? The show rolls on with the big releases on physical media featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Closing all of this sweet, sweet content out is the International Sci-Fi Marathon Awards! Which film featured the best performances? Which was the best film? And in which film’s world would you want to reside? So fun! 00:00-10:47: Intro/Palm Springs 10:48-31:38: Physical Media Picks, Disney 4k, and More 31:39-39:22: Big Man Japan 39:23-48:06: International Sci-Fi Marathon Awards 48:07-49:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, August 07, 2020
TFR Focus Ep. 22: ScreenFix & The Rise Of Skywalker
This week on The First Run, it’s not quite a clip show! Matt has been stuck with no power and no way to record, so Chris brings you a treat! A while back before everything went to hell, he guested on the ScreenFix podcast, featuring frequent TFR guests The Lady Wan and JC ! So we’re bringing you the super special discussion of Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker. Because you can never get enough Star Wars talk! ScreenFix is a great show where they discuss a film and then share how to improve it. Basically when you watch a movie and think, “you know what would have worked better…”. And this one is a hoot! Don’t worry, Chris still shares the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! Hopefully we’ll be back in full swing next week with our discussion of ‘Palm Springs’ and the conclusion of our International Sci-Fi Marathon with Big Man Japan! Unless Matt and his family devolve into some Mad Max like hellscape and we lose him forever. Fingers crossed! 00:00-15:13: Intro/Physical Media Picks/Stuff 15:14-01:27:55: ScreenFix: Rise Of Skywalker Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Sacred Bones Thing Set
Fri, July 31, 2020
TFR Ep. 513: The Old Guard, Time Crimes, 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (2000-2009)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt review the Netflix original, ‘The Old Guard’, starring Charlize Theron. What happens when you get a group of nigh immortal folks together? Well, you fight bad guys of course! So does Netflix have a brand spanking new franchise on its hands? Then the International Sci-Fi Marathon continues with the Spanish import, ‘Timecrimes’. What possible trouble could you get into if you were able to travel back in time 90 minutes? Apparently a lot. There’s the regular rundown of the big physical media releases, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then our marathon top 5’s wrap up with the 5 Best Sci-Fi films released from 2000-2009. Fun! 00:00-01:00: Olivia de Havilland Tribute 01:01-02:02: John Saxon Tribute 02:03-19:47: Intro/The Old Guard/Netflix 19:48-29:08: Physical Media Picks 29:09-38:52: Time Crimes 38:53-55:23: 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (2000-2009) 55:24-56:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 24, 2020
TFR Ep. 512: Greyhound, Solaris, 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (1990-1999)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the Tom Hanks vehicle, ‘Greyhound’. Hanks plays a destroyer captain navigating potential Nazi submarine infested waters as he and his crew attempt to escort supply ships to the Allies during World War II. Then the international science fiction marathon continues with our second Tarkovsky film, ‘Solaris’. A widowed psychologist ventures to a space station orbiting an ocean world to strange goings on and deteriorating mental health of the skeleton crew. But what he finds there may change him, and possibly us (?), forever! There’s the regularly entertaining review of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The show then wraps with Matt and Chris sharing their favorite science fiction films released between 1990-1999. 00:00-10:40: Greyhound 10:41-19:26: Physical Media Picks 19:27-28:38: Solaris 28:39-50:10: 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (90-99) 50:11-52:16: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 17, 2020
TFR Ep. 511: Relic, World On A Wire, 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (1980-1989)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the dementia-based horror film, ‘Relic’. Emily Mortimer stars as a woman dealing with her mother’s dementia, and the impact it has on her and her own daughter. Oh, and there’s something super creepy happening too! The International Sci-Fi Marathon continues with the German miniseries, ‘World On A Wire’. A film that answers the question: “What if we’re all just part of a computer program, man…?!?”. But in German. And long. Then there’s the venerable review of the big physical media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show then wraps with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Sci-Fi films from 1980 to 1989. So just how cliched can the guys’ list get? Take a listen to find out! 00:00-10:41: Intro/Relic 10:42-21:52: Physical Media Picks 21:53-32:30: World On A Wire 32:31-50:19: 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (1980-1989) 50:20-51:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, July 10, 2020
TFR Ep. 510: Becky, Stalker, 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (1970-1979)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt watch Kevin James transform into a very fine person, as a he and a few of his other very fine people assault a family struggling with recent lost. But what they didn’t count on, was the young lady with some serious issues. Then the International Science Fiction Film-athon begins with Tarkovsky’s ‘Stalker’. What would you do if there was a place that granted her deepest desire? Would you just talk about it for what appeared to be forever? There’s the reliable rundown of the big physical media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes with Matt and Chris sharing their favorite Sci-Fi films from 1970-1979. What films will make the cut and will Chris find a way to justify the inclusion of 1978’s ‘Superman’? 00:00-15:05: Intro/Becky 15:06-22:31: Physical Media Picks 22:32-33:25: Stalker 33:26-52:26: 5 Best Sci-Fi Films (1970-1979) 52:27-54:18: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey https://twitter.com/TheFirstRun https://www.instagram.com/thefirstrun/ https://www.facebook.com/TheFirstRun/
Fri, July 03, 2020
TFR Ep. 509: The Wretched, Shadow, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the recent box office leader for weeks, ‘The Wretched’. What happens when a forest witch sneaks into town in the carcass of a hunted deer? Nothing good, let me tell you. Then acclaimed director Zhang Yimou returns with the martial arts adjacent political thriller, ‘Shadow’. Can a film this gorgeous have too dense a narrative? There’s the terribly exciting rundown of the big releases on physical media featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then closes with the return of the role-playing game, Who Dat?!?, featuring such luminaries as Michael Keaton, Rian Johnson and Johnny Hollywood himself. 00:00-08:40: Intro/The Wretched 08:41-18:17: Physical Media Picks 18:18-26:39: Shadow 26:40-55:24: Who Dat?!? 55:25-56:52: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 26, 2020
TFR Ep. 508: Da 5 Bloods, Extraction, 5 Best MCU Stars Non-MCU Movies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by David Rosen of the Piecing It Together podcast to discuss Spike Lee’s latest, ‘Da 5 Bloods’, featuring Delroy Lindo, Clarke Peters, Jonathan Majors feature in a tale of five war buddies that venture back to Vietnam to recover their fallen friend’s body, and millions of dollars’ worth of hidden gold. And everything that can go wrong. Then, it’s on to ‘Extraction’. Chris Hemsworth plays Tyler Rake (seriously), an extraction expert hired to rescue the kidnapped child of a drug dealer, by a rival drug dealer. Does Hemsworth have another franchise on his hands, or are we better off waiting on ‘Love and Thunder’? There’s the reliable rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the big show wraps with the guys sharing their 5 Favorite MCU Stars’ Non-MCU Films. Who makes the cut, Hemsworth, Evans, Ruffalo, Larson, Johansson, Diesel? Tune in to find out! 00:00-17:09: Intro/Da 5 Bloods 17:10-23:59: Physical Media Picks 24:00-33:25: Extraction 33:26-57:25: 5 Best MCU Stars Non-MCU Movies 57:26-1:02:22: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 19, 2020
TFR Ep. 507: Never Rarely Sometimes Always, The Last Thing He Wanted, 5 Best Films With A Message (2010-2019)
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by The Film Bee herself, Bee Garner of the In Their Own League network for our first international episode! First up is Eliza Hitmann’s ‘Never, Rarely, Sometimes, Always’ starring Sidney Flanagan as a young woman navigating numerous infuriating, scary, and sad obstacles in her attempt to obtain an abortion. One of Chris’ most anticipated films of 2020 is finally here. Does the indie drama live up to its expectations, or is it a heavy-handed message film that preaches more than tells? Next is Dee Rees’ ‘The Last Thing He Wanted, featuring Anne Hathaway, Willem Defoe and maybe Ben Affleck? Based on the book by Joan Didion, is this adaptation a thrilling tale of a reporter that gets sucked into a dangerous underworld involving gun running and the CIA? Or is it a disastrous bore, even with all that cool sounding stuff? There’s the riveting rundown of all the major releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. And the big show closes with Bee, Matt and Chris sharing their Top 5 Favorite Message Films from the previous decade. So stamp that passport and journey with us to a different land, digitally of course. 00:00-14:42: Intro/Never, Rarely, Sometimes, Always 14:43-25:06: Physical Media Picks 25:07-37:40: The Last Thing He Wanted 37:41-1:06:26: 5 Best Films With A Message (2010-2019) 1:06:27-01:08:18: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, June 12, 2020
TFR Ep. 506: Just Mercy, Les Misérables, What Are The Odds
This week on The First Run, it’s a double bill of law enforcement misanthropy as Chris and Matt discuss Destin Daniel Cretton’s Just Mercy, featuring Michael B Jordan, Jamie Foxx, and Brie Larson. The director of this show’s much adored ‘Short Term 12’ returns with a film based on the true-life story of Bryan Stevenson. After delivering what may be a perfect sophomore effort, how do things fare this time out with a film practically made this this moment? Then our sadly topical show continues with the French import ‘Les Miserables’, their submission to the 2019 Oscars for best International Picture, instead of ‘Portrait Of A Lady On Fire’. Did that turn out to be the right call? There’s the reasonably exciting rundown of all the big physical media picks, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then closes with another rousing round of What Are The Odds, featuring such entrancing topics as The Batman, James Bond, Dune, and Bill & Ted! 00:00-11:46: Intro/Just Mercy 11:47-24:42: Physical Media Picks 24:43-33:21: Les Misérables (2019) 33:22-50:29: What Are The Odds 50:30-52:17: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, June 05, 2020
TFR Ep. 505: Capone, Fast Times At Ridgemont High, 80’s Sex Comedy Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Josh Trank’s Capone. Tom Hardy plays the infamous gangster in the final year of his life. Trank has a well-received debut with the found-footage super-hero thriller ‘Chronicle’. Then his Fantastic Four reboot ran into production issues, studio interference, and ultimately poor performance and reception. ‘Capone’ is Trank’s first film since that debacle. With total creative control, are we finally able to enjoy his true cinematic vision? Then our 80’s Sex Comedy Marathon mercifully comes to a close with ‘Fast Times At Ridgemont High’. A film that forever shaped Chris’ aesthetic taste in partners. You’ll learn what you should be picking up this week in physical media releases, including the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show wraps with Matt and Chris ruminating over the destruction wrought by our 80’s Sex Comedy Marathon Awards and handing out any applicable awards. So light ‘em if you got ‘em johnny! 00:00-02:50: PSA/BLM 02:51-17:19: Intro/Capone 17:20-31:28: Physical Media Picks & Listener Mail 31:29-43:49: Fast Times At Ridgemont High 43:50-55:27: 80’s Sex Comedy Marathon Awards 55:28-57:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 29, 2020
TFR Ep. 504: A Hidden Life, Zapped, Top 5 Movies With Nazis
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Terrence Malick’s latest film, ‘A Hidden Life’. Based on the true story of an Austrian peasant farmer who refuses to swear an oath of loyalty Hitler and the Nazi party and its ultimate impact to him and his family. Malick has been criticized for what could be called a meander pace and just a dusting of self-indulgence. But when you’re one of the few directors that live up to the term auteur, does that matter? Then the 80’s Sex Comedy marathon continues with ‘Zapped!’. Can the film possibly be as horrible and chauvinistic as the promos appear? There’s the ridiculously fascinating rundown of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Films That Feature Nazis in some capacity or another. Nice and vague is how we like it. 00:00-15:36: Intro/A Hidden Life 15:37-30:11: Physical Media Picks 30:12-39:16: Justice League Snyder Cut 39:17-49:46: Zapped! 49:47-1:04:47: Top 5 Movies With Nazis 1:04:48-1:06:48: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 22, 2020
TFR Ep. 503: VFW, Screwballs, Top 5 80’s Comedies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the latest from director Joe Begos, ‘VFW’. After recently discussing his prior film ‘Bliss’, a horror film about drug enhanced vampirism that we found, okay. So how does this Fangoria produced entry about a group of veterans fending off an attack by a drug dealer’s crew in a collapsing society. Does Begos out Carpenter John Carpenter? Then our 80’s Sex Comedy Marathon continues with the Porky’s inspired Canadian import, ‘Screwballs’. A bit more obvious in its presentation, just how sleazy can we get? The answer maybe all the sleazy. There’s the nail-biting rundown of the big Physical Media Picks, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Comedies from the 80’s! How can the guys possibly choose just 5? Listen on to find out! 00:00-11:45: Intro/VFW 11:46-24:47: Physical Media Picks 24:48-36:27: Screwballs 36:28-51:58: Top 5 80’s Comedies 51:59-54:16: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Instagram Facebook
Fri, May 15, 2020
TFR Ep. 502: First Love, Bachelor Party (1984), Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt check in on one of their favorite, crazy sumbitch directors, Takashi Miike with his latest, ‘First Love’. What’s the craziest story of two young people falling in love? I assure you it’s not as crazy as this. Then our Raunchy 80’s Comedy Marathon continues with America’s sweetheart, Adrian Zmed. And also Tom Hanks. There’s the regularly entertaining rundown of the big physical media releases, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. And it’s a long one this week folks. The show closed with the return of Call It! What do or die decisions will your stalwart hosts be presented with this week? Tune in to find out! 00:00-11:47: Intro/First Love 11:48-22:39: Physical Media Picks 22:40-31:22: Bachelor Party (1984) 31:23-48:21: Call It! 48:22-49:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey https://twitter.com/TheFirstRun https://www.instagram.com/thefirstrun/ https://www.facebook.com/TheFirstRun/
Fri, May 08, 2020
TFR Ep. 501: Come To Daddy, Porky’s, Who Dat?!?
The week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Elijah Wood’s latest offbeat picture, ‘Come To Daddy’. As a man with severe daddy issues (I DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT! – Chris), ‘Come To Daddy’ sounds just like the film to stir up uncomfortable issues. But does director Ant Timpson balance the comedy and horror genres that always so hard to manage? Then the raunchy 80’s comedy marathon begins with ‘Porky’s’. Matt and Chris have regretted setting this one up since they thought of it. Can it possibly be as good as its reputation, or as bad they fear it is? There’s the always at least 70% entertaining review of the big releases on home video, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes with the return of our role-playing game Who Dat?!?, featuring guest appearances by Tom Cruise, Taiki Waititi, and the long-awaited return of Jimmy Hollywood! 00:00-09:30: Intro/Come To Daddy 09:31-22:55: Home Video Picks 22:56-36:10: Porky’s 36:11-49:39: Who Dat?!? 49:40-52:20: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, May 01, 2020
TFR Ep. 500: Sucker Punch Redux, Velocipastor, Top 20 Of TFR: 5-1
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt celebrate 500 episodes with a couple special guests: original co-host Chris Espo and theme composer Jamal Ford-Bey. First up is a revisit to the much maligned ‘Sucker Punch’. A film they both were not fans of back during its initial review back on episode 59 , has time been any kinder to it? Then it’s on to a particularly unique piece of cinema, ‘Velocipastor’. Can the movie possibly be as good and as fun as the title would suggest? Or does it try too hard to be bad? There’s the rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with the whole gang revealing the Top 5 Favorite Films of The First Run era. What will the final films be and how angry will Chris get at…someone. 00:00-24:09: Intro/Sucker Punch Revisit 24:10-30:55: Physical Media Picks 30:56-39:49: Velocipastor 39:50-1:14:46: Top 20 Of TFR: 5-1 1:14:47-1:15:33: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 24, 2020
TFR Ep. 499: The Way Back, Villains, Top 20 Of TFR: 10-6
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt reach the penultimate episode to show 500 with a discussion of ‘The Way Back’. Ben Affleck plays a man struggling after experiencing life-shattering moments, working his way back (if you will) by coming back to coach the high school basketball team he used to be the star on. Sports films are a great vehicle to discuss other, heavier, subjects. Then it’s on to ‘Villains’, where you find out what happens when a two bad couples run into each other and bumble their way into laughs and…murder. Matt and Chris then discuss the big releases on physical media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show then closes with the reveal of films 10-6 in our top 20 countdown of films discussed since we began. Which films made the cut this week? Listen on to find out! 00:00-10:34: Intro/The Way Back 10:35-19:08: Physical Media Picks 19:09-27:39: Villains 27:40-48:50: Top 20 Of TFR: 10-6 48:51-50:49: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 17, 2020
TFR Ep. 498: Guns Akimbo, Monos, Top 20 Of TFR: 15-11
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Daniel Radcliffe’s latest vehicle, ‘Guns Akimbo’. Danny lives in an alternate world that basically brings the Ready Player One universe to life, but cooler. Oh so much cooler. After that, Matt and Chris caught up with Alejandro Landes’s ‘Monos’. Julianne Nicholson leads this Spanish drama as a prisoner of child soldiers in Columbia, and features a score by one of Chris’ favorite film composer working today, Mica Levi! There’s the dreamy review of the big releases coming up on physical media. And then the show closes as we inch closer to episode 500, and Chris and Matt continue their countdown of their top 20 favorite films of the show’s run. This time, it’s films 15-11. Don’t worry if your favorite films aren’t yet mentioned, we got two weeks to go! So press play and soak in all the awesomeness. 00:00-09:22: Intro/Guns Akimbo 09:23-18:08: Physical Media Picks 18:09-27:10: Monos 27:11-45:58: Top 20 Of TFR: 15-11 45:59-47:25: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 10, 2020
TFR Ep. 497: Swallow, The Wind, Top 20 Of TFR: 20-16
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the psychological thriller, ‘Shallow’. Hayley Bennett plays a young woman who feels trapped and develops pica, the overwhelming need to swallow unusual non-food items. So how do you turn that into an engrossing thriller? Should you just watch one of those weird My Strange Addiction shows instead? Then it’s on to the horror western, ‘The Wind’. Caitlin Gerard stars as a young woman who moves out West with her husband to start a new life. But there maybe something out there…waiting. There’s the always endearing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then, our countdown to episode 500(!) begins with Matt and Chris starting the countdown of their 20 favorite films watched for the show. First up, movies 20-16. Which films makes the cut? And how many hundreds of films will Chris list off as honorable mentions? 00:00-13:12: Intro/Swallow 13:13-21:21: Physical Media Picks 21:22-29:10: The Wind (2018) 29:11-50:02: 20 Favorite Films Of TFR: 20-16 50:03-51:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, April 03, 2020
TFR Ep. 496: Portrait Of A Lady On Fire, I Lost My Body, What Are The Odds
This week on The First Run, it’s all French stuff all the time. Not only do Chris and Matt discuss one of Chris’ favorite films of the past decade, but the guys are joined by The Lady Wan herself of the ScreenFix Podcast . First up, it’s ‘Portrait Of A Lady On Fire’ by writer/director Céline Sciamma. A heartbreaking and heartwarming period piece about love, loss, and longing. Will this modern classic love story have the same impact on Matt and Lady Wan that it had on Chris? Then the French kisses continue with the Oscar nominated animated film, ‘I Lost My Body’. Another stunning film of about love, life, loss, and what it takes to move on. Should ‘Toy Story 4’ have won the Oscar for best Animated Feature after all? There’s the review of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with the return of What Are The Odds, featuring topics like; will we get back to the theaters this year? Will Edgar Wright’s films ever win an Oscar? And what’s up with that ‘Uncharted’ film. All this and more! 00:00-18:05: Intro/Portrait Of A Lady On Fire 18:06-25:31: Home Video Picks 25:32-33:26: I Lost my Body 33:27-1:03:27: What Are The Odds 1:03:28-1:07:24: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey feedback@thefirstrun.com
Fri, March 27, 2020
TFR Ep. 495: The Hunt, The Way Of The Dragon, Martial Arts Marathon 2 Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt finally joined in on ‘The Hunt’. A controversial film pulled from its original release date in 2019, and again in 2020 due to the Coronavirus after only a week in the theaters. Available to rent online now for $20. Was it worth all wait and controversy? There’s the review of the big releases on physical media, and it’s a big week as the Star Wars films hit 4k. Then our second Martial Arts Marathon comes to a close with the Bruce Lee vehicle, ‘The Way Of The Dragon’. Bruce is in Rome attempting to save some restaurant owners from the mob. Things go pretty well until Chuck Norris makes his big screen debut. The show wraps with our Martial Arts Marathon II Awards as Matt and Chris award the best performances, fights, dubbing, and picture of the series. Who takes home the gold? Listen on the find out! Skywalker Saga UK Blu Set 00:00-11:22: Intro/The Hunt 11:23-26:01: Physical Media Picks 26:02-35:02: The Way Of The Dragon 35:03-44:07: Martial Arts Marathon 2 Awards 44:08-46:48: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Twitter Facebook Instagram
Fri, March 20, 2020
TFR Ep. 494: Color Out Of Space, Crippled Avengers, Streaming Picks
This week on The First Run, as the theaters shudder their doors and quarantine sets in, Chris and Matt embrace the streaming world with Richard Stanley’s ‘Color Out Of Space’. Nicholas Cage stars as a man desperately trying to keep his family together, and alive, as an interdimensional wave of color and light arrives to do…something. Then the Martial Arts Marathon rolls on with ‘Crippled Avengers’, the pseudo-sequel to ‘The Five Deadly Venoms’. This time, 5 heroes are maimed in different ways by an evil master of the Tiger style of kung fu, so they team up to compensate for their impairments, and perhaps learn a little something along the way. There’s the always enrapturing rundown of the big releases on Physical Media, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Matt & Chris sharing a movie for you to watch while we all practice our social distancing from the Horror, Sci-fi, Drama, Romance, Action, and Comedy genres. Plus a few bonus picks. SO grab that hazmat suit and start defrosting those Eggos. It’s another episode of The First Run. 00:00-10:23: Intro/Color Out Of Space 10:38-21:57: Physical Media Picks 21:58-32:03: Crippled Avengers 32:04-54:38: Streaming Picks 54:39-57:51: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey https://twitter.com/TheFirstRun https://www.facebook.com/TheFirstRun/ https://www.instagram.com/thefirstrun/
Fri, March 13, 2020
TFR Ep. 493: Onward, Come Drink With Me, 5 Best Animated Films '10-'19
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt review the latest Pixar film, ‘Onward’. Set in a world of wizards, elves, and dorks, sorry orks. Is Pixar’s return to original properties a hit? Or should we have held out for ‘Wall-E 2: Eva’s Revenge’? Then it’s on to the 3rd film in Round 2 of our Martial Arts Marathon, ‘Come Drink With Me’. Can the film surpass the ridiculousness of its title? Do we even want it to? There’s the spine tingling rundown of the big releases on physical media next week, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then the big show wraps with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Animated Films from 2010 through 2019. Will your favorite make the cut? And how many Pixar films make the list? Tune in to find out! 00:00-09:14: Intro/Onward 09:15-22:12: Physical Media Picks 22:13-30:24: Come Drink With Me 30:25-51:05: 5 Best Animated Films '10-'19 51:06-53:19: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey https://www.facebook.com/TheFirstRun/ https://twitter.com/TheFirstRun https://www.instagram.com/thefirstrun/
Fri, March 06, 2020
TFR Ep. 492: The Invisible Man, The One-Armed Swordsman, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt review Leigh Wannell’s update of the classic Universal monster film, ‘The Invisible Man’. After Tom Cruise’s ‘The Mummy’ crashed and burned with no audio effects, can this reduced scope Blumhouse offering show the potential of a Dark Universe franchise? Or is the film better off being invisible? Then our Martial Arts Marathon Part 2: The Quickening continues with ‘The One-Armed Swordsman’. How far would you go to protect your clan AFTER THEY CUT OFF YOUR DAMN ARM? Here’s your big chance to find out. There’s the rundown of the all the best physical home video releases, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then the show closes with the return of Call It! ‘Clerks’ or ‘Swingers’? ‘Big Trouble In Little China’ or ‘Escape From New York’? And more! Take a listen to see what choices are made and shoot us your thoughts at feedback@thefirstrun.com . 00:00-09:46: Intro/The Invisible Man 09:47-26:16: Physical Media Picks 26:17-34:55: The One-Armed Swordsman 34:56-52:13: Call It! 52:14-55:02: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 28, 2020
TFR Ep. 491: The Lodge, The Legendary Weapons Of China, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the horror film, ‘The Lodge’. What happens when your Dad’s new girlfriend spends time with her soon-to-be step kids during a harsh winter when there’s something truly terrifying going on? Bad stuff man. Bad stuff. Then it’s an all new Martial Arts Marathon curated by Matt! First up is ‘The Legendary Weapons Of China’. Do we have a banger out of the gate, or has returning to this particular well been a horrible mistake? There’s the regularly exciting rundown of the big releases on Home Video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! The show then closes with the return of everyone’s favorite role-playing game, ‘Who Dat?!?’ This round features Harrison Ford, Cary Fukunaga, and more! 00:00-15:02: Intro/The Lodge 15:03-20:29: Home Video Picks 20:30-27:40: The Legendary Weapons Of China 27:41-44:30: Who Dat?!? 44:31-46:46: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey https://www.facebook.com/TheFirstRun/ https://twitter.com/TheFirstRun https://www.instagram.com/thefirstrun/
Fri, February 21, 2020
TFR Ep. 490: Fantasy Island, Banana Splits, 5 70’s Shows Deserving A Big Screen Reboot
This week on The First Run, Matt is on vacation, so Chris does all of the relatively heavy lifting by sharing his thoughts on the big reboots of ‘Fantasy Island’ and ‘The Banana Splits’. First up, Michael Peña is Mr. Rourke as he entertains a plane load of guests looking to indulge their most secret fantasies, or are they…?!? (insert maniacal laughter) Then it’s on to the return of the Banana Splits in ‘The Banana Splits’. This time, the Splits are robots you get a bad software update that drives them to KILL. Who will survive this episode chockfull of possible bad winter releases. Or is there a hidden gem in there somewhere? Chris fills you in on the big releases on home video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show mercifully closes as Chris shares his 5 Favorite 70’s Shows Deserving A Big Screen Reboot. Suffer with Chris, won’t you? 00:00-05:31: Intro/Fantasy Island 05:32-13:24: Home Video Picks 13:25-18:20: The Banana Splits 18:21-25:47: 5 70’s Shows Deserving A Big Screen Reboot 25:48-27:27: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 14, 2020
TFR Ep. 489: Birds Of Prey, 2020 Oscars Wrap Up, Bliss, 5 Best Female Comic Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt return to the DCEU with ‘Birds Of Prey (And The Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)’. It’s been a mixed bag (at best) for the DC Comics film adaptations, much to Chris’ chagrin. Can Harley, The Huntress, Black Canary, and the gang continue the revitalization of the DC Cinematic Universe? Then it’s the Shudder feature, ‘Bliss’. Writer/Director Joe Begos brings us a unique take on a classic movie monster. Is it a winning move? Or is this version a wild misfire? There’s the regularly entertaining rundown of the big releases on Blu-ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. But wait, there’s more as Matt and Chris review their Oscars results from the 2020 Academy Awards. The show closes with Chris and Matt revealing their 5 Favorite Female Comic Book Characters. Who makes the cut? And how many of Chris’ picks end up being mainstream? 00:00-14:23: Intro/Birds Of Prey 14:24-22:13: Home Video Picks 22:14-27:51: 2020 Oscars Wrap Up 27:52-35:07: Bliss 35:08-54:19: 5 Favorite Female Comic Characters 54:20-55:32: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, February 07, 2020
TFR Ep. 488: Gretel & Hansel, Luz, 2020 Oscar Picks
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the arthouse horror update of the classic Grimm’s fairy tale, ‘Gretel And Hansel’. Does the streak of gothic horror movie continue? Or is this just A24 light? And is the house made of candy? I can’t imagine that it would be up to code. Then it’s the German import, ‘Luz’. When you call forth a demon while in primary school, it’s best to keep an eye over your shoulder at all times. Does this confounding, minimalist horror film deliver the goods on its shoestring budget and sparse runtime? There’s the regularly entertaining rundown of the big releases on Home Video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week! Then it’s Awards Season as Matt and Chris share their stone iron cold locks for the big awards for the 2020 Oscars. Matt’s Oscar Picks Chris’ Oscar Picks (Highlights are picks) 00:00-07:53: Gretel And Hansel 07:54-18:36: Home Video Picks 19:04-25:25: Luz 25:26-38:18: 2020 Oscar Picks 38:19-39:22: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 31, 2020
TFR Ep. 487: The Gentlemen, 6 Underground, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Guy Ritchie’s return to British crime thrillers with ‘The Gentlemen’. Matthew McConaughey joins Ritchie’s rogues gallery along with Hugh Grant, but there’s no Statham in sight! Is this a return to form for Ritchie? Speaking of directors coming back to their comfort zones, Michael Bay returns with ‘6 Underground’. Bay enlists Planet Earth’s most charming human, Ryan Reynolds AND his gin to tell the story of a billionaire philanthropist whose philanthropy is all about blowing stuff up. Then it’s the review of the big releases on home video this week, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show closes with the return of ‘What Are the Odds’ as Matt and Chris figure out how likely is the upcoming Dune to be a success, will Lulu Wang direct an MCU film, and more! 00:00-10:32: The Gentlemen 10:33-18:20: Home Video Picks 18:21-25:45: 6 Underground 25:46-45:02: What Are The Odds?!? 45:03-46:36: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 24, 2020
TFR Ep. 486: Underwater, Hagazussa, 5 Best At Sea Movies
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt go for a swim with K-Stew and her crew of motley sea miners as they attempt to survive the onslaught of…something in ‘Underwater’. Do we have our fun January horror release, or is it just another January film dump? Then it’s on to the German horror import, ‘Hagazussa’. Translated into English, it means ‘Witch’. Is it a truly disturbing tale of a persecuted minority in the Middle Ages? Or a derivative knockoff of Robert Eggers’ ‘The Witch’? There’s the always illuminating review of the big releases on home video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The show then wraps as Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Movies At Sea. How many submarine movies end up on the list? And why does Chris not include ‘Jaws’? Grab a life preserver and dive in to the latest program! 00:00-09:14: Intro/Underwater 09:15-17:26: Home Video Picks 17:27-24:24: Hagazussa 24:25-42:29: 5 Favorite At Sea Movies 42:30-44:14: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 17, 2020
TFR Ep. 485: 1917, 2020 Oscar Noms, Top 10 Films Of 2019
On this episode of The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by THE Lady Wan and JC of the ScreenFix Podcast . That sounds great right? But wait! It gets better, because James Baker of Pop Cult Net is here as well. It’s our mid-January 2020 2019 Wrap Up blow out! It’s party and everyone’s invited. We’ll be discussing Sam Mendes’ World War 1 film, ‘1917’. Can the drama, action, and technical skill enough to deliver a Best Picture win? Speaking of Best Pictures, we’ll also have a healthy debate about the recently announced Oscar Nominations. Chris then fills you in on the big releases on home video. Finally, the ultimate cluster begins with everyone sharing our favorite films of 2019. Chris has some new drops and some booze. Let’s do it! 00:00-20:29: Intro/1917 20:30-31:39: Home Video Picks 31:40-46:57: 2020 Oscar Nominations 46:58-1:01:12: Best Of 2019, 10-6 1:01:13-1:45:08: Best Of 2019, 5-1 1:45:09-1:49:31: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 10, 2020
TFR Ep. 484: The Grudge ’20, Light Of My Life, 5 Worst Horror Sequels
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss the not-long-awaited sequel to the creepy kid, scary ‘ahhhh’ cackling lady franchise, ‘The Grudge’. It’s been quite a few years since this particular horror import has had a sequel. Was it worth the wait? Then it’s on to ‘Light Of My Life’. Casey Affleck writes and directs himself as a Dad desperately trying to keep his young daughter safe in a world here most of the women were wiped out by a pandemic. Does this The Last Of Us/The Road/Y The Last Man mash up deliver the drama and thrills? Perhaps a little too much of column A and not enough of column B? There’s the always riveting rundown on the big releases on home video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Then the show closes with Chris and Matt sharing what they feel are the 5 Worst Horror Sequels of all time. It’s a tough business, those horror sequels. What ones will turn out on “Garbage Day!”? 00:00-11:15: Intro/The Grudge (’20) 11:16-23:01: Home Video Picks 23:02-32:01: Light Of My Life 32:02- 51:37: 5 Worst Horror Sequels 52:38-53:31: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, January 03, 2020
TFR Ep. 483: Uncut Gems, Little Women, The Souvenir, 2020 First Half Preview
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by JC of The ScreenFix Podcast to discuss the Safdie Brothers’ latest trip to hell, ‘Uncut Gems’. Marvel as Adam Sandler attempts to negotiate the repercussions of the all the worst decisions a human can make. Chris share his thoughts on Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s ‘Little Women’. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast with Saorsie Ronan, Florence Pugh, Laura Dern, and more! Does Gerwing deliver another winner with her sophomore effort? Then the gang reviews Joanna Hogg’s stirring, some say dull, mediation of a tumultuous relationship dealing with a partner’s addiction. There’s the reasonably exciting rundown of the big releases on home video, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Finally, the show wraps with a preview of the films you need to see for the first half of 2020. 00:00-19:41: Intro/Uncut Gems 19:42-30:33: Little Women 30:34-40:16: Home Video Picks 40:17-52:36: The Souvenir 52:37-1:30:50: 2020 First Half Preview 1:30:51-1:33:59: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 27, 2019
TFR Ep. 482: Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker, Marriage Story, The Report, 5 Favorite Non-Primary Star Wars Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by super special guest Kevin O’Toole of The Culture Dogs for Adam Driver Fest 2019! First up, the guys discuss Adam Driver and the end of the Skywalker Saga with Star Wars Episode 9: The Rise of Skywalker. It’s been a long journey and it finally all ends here. Was it a fitting close for the greatest franchise in cinema? Then it’s on to Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson in ‘Marriage Story’. Can a film about a couple’s divorce be heartbreaking AND funny?!? Driver Fest continues with ‘The Report’, a film that explores the investigation and eventual reveal of the Torture Report. There’s the endlessly fascinating rundown of the latest Home Video releases. Finally, the show comes to a rapturous close as our intrepid hosts rundown their 5 Favorite Non-Primary Star Wars Characters! It’s Adam Driver Fest 2019! Download it into your brain ears! 00:00-31:04: Intro/Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker 31:05-37:13: Home Video Picks 37:14-46.29: Marriage Story 46:30-54.22: The Report 54:23-1:09:39: 5 Favorite Non-Primary Star Wars Characters 1:09:40-1:11:56 Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 20, 2019
TFR Ep. 481: Richard Jewell, Black Christmas (’19), The Last Black Man In San Francisco, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Clint Eastwood’s latest, ‘Richard Jewell’, the story of the hero of the 1996 Olympic bombing, and how his name was tarnished and his life almost destroyed. Chris then shares his thoughts on the reimaging of ‘Black Christmas’ and its urgency for our times. After that, Matt and Chris review ‘The Last Black Man In San Francisco’, a beautiful, almost fairy tale-like telling of a story that is both modern and timeless. There’s the always riveting rundown of the big releases on home video, featuring the Straight To DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, the show closes with an electric Call It segment where Chris and Matt have to decide between horror and comedy films, Terminators and Indiana Jones’, and LeBeoufs and Pattinsons. Sounds like another winner! 00:00-13:05: Intro/Richard Jewell 13:06-19:48: Black Christmas ‘19 19:49-24:31: Home Video Picks 24:32-32:02: The Last Black Man In San Francisco 32:03-48:54: Call It! 48:55-50:53: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 13, 2019
TFR Ep. 480: Waves, Honey Boy, Who Dat?!?
This week on The First Run, it’s a week of family strife. Chris and Matt discuss two dramas about family and domineering fathers. First up on our emotional tour through heartache and longing is Trey Edward Shults’ ‘Waves’. The latest from studio A24 focuses on two children dealing with a domineering father and how their lives diverge dramatically from his influence. Is ‘Waves’ a gripping family drama or overly done melodrama? Then it’s on to Shia LeBeouf’s fictionalized tale of his own youth being a child actor dealing with a broken father pushing him to be a star. There’s the review of the big releases on home video, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then closes with the roleplaying game, ‘Who Dat?’ as Matt and Chris portray Rian Johnson, Daniel Craig, Matt Reeves, and more! 00:00-15:49: Intro/Waves 15:50-27:03: Home Video Picks 27:04-33:56: Honey Boy 33:57-54:24: Who Dat?!? 54:25-57:48: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, December 06, 2019
TFR Ep. 479: The Irishman, Knives Out, 5 Best Mystery Movies Since 2000
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined by The Lady Wan of the Screen Fix Pod to discuss Martin Scorsese’s latest, and reportedly final gangster film, ‘The Irishman’. Is it a fitting goodbye to a genre he redefined, or is it just one too many looooong trips back to that particular well. Then it’s on to Rian Johnson’s rollicking who-done-it, ‘Knives Out’. Long-time listeners know of Chris’ affection for Johnson’s films (just mention ‘Brick’ to him, sit back and listen to him drone on for the next hour or so about its greatness). Has Johnson breathed new life into the murder-mystery genre? Or does the all-star cast deliver collapsing star returns? There’s the always-informative and entertaining rundown of the big release on home video, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the super show wraps as Lady Wan, Matt, and Chris share their 5 Favorite Mystery Movies to be released since 2000. It’s a mystery how great this episode is, so listen now to piece together all of the clues! 00:00-17:50: Intro/The Irishman 17:51-26:10: Home Video Picks 26:11-36:00: Knives Out 36:01-59:50: 5 Best Mystery Movies Since 2000 59:51-1:01:46: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Thu, November 28, 2019
TFR Ep. 478: A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood, Dolemite Is My Name, The List: Tom Hanks
This week on The First Run, do Chris and Matt experience a ‘Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood’? After the fantastic Fred Rogers documentary, ‘Won’t You Be My Neighbor’, inspired by the legendary Esquire profile of Fred Rogers, we have a fictionalized adaptation. Tom Hanks plays Mr. Rogers in a movie that doesn’t so much feature Mr. Rogers. Was that the right choice? Then it’s on to another pseudo-biopic with Eddie Murphy as Rudy Ray Moore in ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. The creation of an iconic character and film are explored in this Netflix original. Could this be Murphy’s best performance…ever? There’s the rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray and DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The Thanksgiving Day celebrations then wrap as Matt and Chris attempt to lock down Tom Hanks’ 5 Best Lead Performances with The List. Gobble-gobble and happy Black Friday Movie shopping! 00:00-08:21: Intro/A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood 08:22-13:43: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 13:44-22:51: Dolemite Is My Name 22:52-40:51: The List: Tom Hanks 40:52-43:58: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 22, 2019
TFR Ep. 477: Ford v Ferrari, El Camino, Creepshow Ep. 6, 2019 Holiday Gift Guide
This week on The First Run, it’s a Dad-Movie Fest as Chris and Matt kicks things off with Matt Damon and Christian Bale in ‘Ford v Ferrari’. The story of Carroll Shelby’s and Ken Miles’ partnership with the Ford Motor Company as they attempt to win the Le Mans 24-hour race and defeat Ferrari’s reign, and insults. Featuring a strong ensemble cast and thrilling race scenes, does the film get the checkered flag? (Vroom vroom!). Vince Gilligan then brings us the coda to his classic series, ‘Breaking Bad’ with ‘El Camino’. Just what happened to Jesse after the series faded to black? And were we better off not knowing? Long live Badger and Skinny Pete! There’s the reasonably entertaining rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with our 2019 Gift Guide as Matt & Chris share what you can get the movie lover in your life (or yourself) this holiday season, featuring a very special guest! 00:00-11:18: Intro/Ford v Ferrari 11:19-30:32: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 30:33-37:10: Creepshow Ep. 6 37:11-43:53: El Camino 43:54-59:34: 2019 Holiday Gift Guide 59:35-1:01:05: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey Holiday music provided by No Copyright Music - NSC Matt’s Gifts The Bad Movie Bible: The Ultimate Modern Guide to Movies That Are so Bad They're Good 3d Star Wars Darth Vader LED Light Table Lamp Night Light Kids Room Bedroom Gift Breaking Bad Incense Burner - 1986 Fleetwood Bounder RV Replica The Shining Apollo Sweater MCU Infinity Saga Set Chris’ Gifts Indiana Jones & The Last Crusade: Cup Of Christ <p c
Fri, November 15, 2019
TFR Ep. 476: Jojo Rabbit, Doctor Sleep, Creepshow Ep. 5, 5 Best Movie Nightmares
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt hold a double feature! First up, writer/director Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarök, What We Do In The Shadows, The Hunt For The Wilderpeople) brings us the coming of age/Nazi/authoritarian government satire we didn’t know we wanted with ‘Jojo Rabbit’. Then it’s been 40 years, but Danny Torrance is back in Mike Flanagan’s (Oculus, Haunting Of Hill House) sequel to the classic ‘The Shining’, with ‘Doctor Sleep’. Ewan McGregor plays Danny as he struggles to find meaning, and perhaps does when a young woman shines more powerful than he ever did. This shine catches the attention of Rose the Hat, our antagonist played by Rebecca Ferguson, who leads a crew of psychic vampires desperately looking for their next meal. Can they be stopped and can Danny finally find his path? There’s the always mildly entertaining review of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then the show wraps up with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Nightmare Sequences. ~~~SPOOKY~~~~ 00:00-10:07: Intro/Jojo Rabbit 10:08-22:35: Blu-Ray Picks 22:36-29:28: Creepshow Ep. 5 29:29-54:00: 5 Favorite Nightmare Sequences 54:01-55:37: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 08, 2019
TFR Ep. 475: Parasite, Terminator: Dark Fate, The Driver, Creepshow Ep. 4, Car Chase Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Joon-ho Bong’s ‘Parasite’. Bong’s film is touted as a modern masterpiece. Will the film measure up to all the hype for our two middle-aged unprofessional hack critics? Then, is the ‘Terminator’ franchise reborn with ‘Dark Fate’? Linda Hamilton and Arnold return to continue the story from ‘Judgement Day’, but with a new twist and Mackenzie Davis! The Car Chase Marathon wraps with Walter Hill’s ‘The Driver’, starring Ryan O’Neal, Bruce Dern, & Isabelle Adjani. Does the prototype film for Chris’ beloved ‘Drive’ deliver those 70’s neo-noir goods? Matt and Chris also discuss Creepshow episode 4. Then there’re the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, the show wraps with the Car Chase Marathon Awards! Which film was best? Had the best car crash? Featured the best performances? And will they all be ‘The Duel’? Tune in on your car radio dial to find out! 00:00-08:07: Intro/ Parasite 08:08-21:35: Terminator: Dark Fate 21:36-31:03: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 31:04-35:30: Creepshow Ep. 4 35:31-42:52: The Driver 42:53-53:00: Car Chase Marathon Awards 53:01-56:13: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, November 01, 2019
TFR Ep. 474: The Lighthouse, The Getaway, Creepshow Ep. 3, 5 Movie Robots Gone Bad
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt get stranded at ‘The Lighthouse’. Robert Eggers, director of ‘The Witch’ returns with Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe and their story of madness, horror, mermaids. From there it’s on to episode of 3 of Shudder’s Creepshow revival. The Car Chase Marathon then continues with Sam Peckinpaugh’s ‘The Getaway’, starring Steve McQueen and Ali McGraw. So what do you do when you Car Chase Marathon has no car chases? There’s the rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week! The show then wraps up with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Movie Robots Gone Bad. Matt cheats and brings up some non-robots and Chris embarrasses himself with his lack of sci-fi literature knowledge. It’s a hoot! 00:00-13:49: Intro/The Lighthouse 13:50-24:01: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 24:02-29:29: Creepshow Ep. 3 29:30-37:11: The Getaway 37:12-54:53: 5 Movie Robots Gone Bad 54:54-57:01: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 25, 2019
TFR Ep. 473: Zombieland Double Tap, Creepshow Ep. 2, Duel, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Matt and Chris make a return visit to Zombieland with ‘Zombieland: Double Tap’. The whole crew is back to joke around and kill some zombies, all while figuring out what defines family. Our Car Chase Marathon continues with Steven Spielberg’s directorial debut, ‘Duel’. Dennis Weaver plays a man on a business trip that passes the wrong truck driver. The discussion of the new Creepshow on Shudder continues with episode 2, featuring Nazis, werewolves, and weird nightmare pets. There’s the always rambunctious rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The big show then wraps with the return of What Are The Odds. Will Robert Pattinson be known as THE Batman? Will ‘Rise Of Skywalker’ heal the rift on the Star Wars fandom? And more! 00:00-09:18: Intro/Zombieland Double Tap 09:19-22:38: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 22:39-28:07: Creepshow Ep. 2 28:08-37:47: Duel 37:48-56:05: What Are The Odds? 56:06-57:28: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 18, 2019
TFR Ep. 472: Gemini Man, Halloween Streaming Picks
This week on The First Run, Matt has abandoned the show for a week, so it’s up to Chris to deliver the fun. Chris shares his thoughts on the return of Ang Lee and Will Smith in the sci-fi action film, ‘Gemini Man’. Will Smith plays a retired elite assassin who’s hunted by…himself? Does this throwback film deliver the thrills, special effects, and benefit from its HFR (High Frame Rate) presentation? Then it’s on to the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD. Finally, the show wraps with Chris recommending 10 horror films you can stream right now! Will your favorites make the list? That should do it. How long can you listen to just Chris anyway? 00:00-06:08: Intro/Gemini Man 06:09-11:22: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 11:23-28:02: 10 Horror Streaming Picks 28:03-30:04: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 11, 2019
TFR Ep. 471: Joker, Gone In 60 Seconds, Creepshow Ep. 1, 5 Batman Villains Deserving A Movie
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt are joined with James Baker of Pop Cult Net to discuss Todd Phillips’ ‘Joker’, starring Joaquin Phoenix. The film has garnered a lot of attention for various, and sometimes ridiculous reasons. After all the hype, is the fiim as incendiary as we’ve heard? Or is it just another super-hero movie? Then it’s on to the first episode of Shudder’s ‘Creepshow’ reboot. Is it a welcome return or tired retread? More questions! Our Car Chase marathon continues with the original ‘Gone In 60 Seconds’. Can it possibly be worse than the Nic Cage reboot? Listen to the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Plus find out with Batman Villains Deserve Their Own Film and who should play them! It’s an action-packed super-sized edition of The First Run! 00:00-16:59: Joker 17:00-28:41: Joker Spoilers and Cultural Impact 28:42-36:07: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 36:08-43:12: Creepshow Ep. 1 43:13-52:02: Gone In 60 Seconds (‘74) 52:03-1:08:12: 5 Batman Villains Deserving A Movie 1:08:13-1:10:06: Wrap Up Theme music provide by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, October 04, 2019
TFR Ep. 470: Ad Astra, Vanishing Point, 5 Favorite Space Scenes
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt settle in with the stars, both in space and with the dreamy Brad Pitt in James Gray’s ‘Ad Astra’. Chase down ‘Vanishing Point’ as the Car Chase Marathon begins. And discuss their 5 Favorite Space Scenes. This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt settle in with the stars, both in space and with the dreamy Brad Pitt in James Gray’s ‘Ad Astra’. Sometimes the biggest epics have a small, intimate core. And other times they’re long and dull. So which is ‘Ad Astra’? And why do I feel like I need to call my Dad? Then our Car Chase Marathon begins with ‘Vanishing Point’. What are you willing to do to deliver a car to San Francisco in time? And what if the car chase has almost nothing to do with your car chase movie, man? There’s the big release on Blu-Ray and DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, the show closes with Matt and Chris sharing their 5 Favorite Scenes That Take Place in Space! And how many of them will be from a Star Wars movie? Hacks. 00:00-10:50: Intro/Ad Astra 10:51-17:57: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 17:58-26:26: Vanishing Point 26:27-40:38: 5 Favorite Space Scenes 40:39-42:05: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Mon, September 30, 2019
TFR Ep. 469: Rambo: Last Blood, Tigers Are Not Afraid, 5 Best Modern Films Of 80’s Action Stars
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt get dragged into battle one more time, again. Sylvester Stallone returns as John Rambo in ‘Rambo: Last Blood’. One final ride on the Rambo rollercoaster. It’s been an interesting journey over these past 37(!) years. Starting off as a raw, action film with drama and meaning, John Rambo has gotten more and more ridiculous. Does ‘Rambo: Last Blood’ bring the series full circle in its final chapter? Then the streaming service Shudder landed one of the more coveted horror films of the year, ‘Tigers Are Not Afraid’. The Mexican horror film has been receiving high praise with scares, heart, and a message. Is it, as the kids say, “all that”? There’s the regularly mildly interesting releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. Apropos of nothing, we wrap the show with our 5 Favorite Modern Films featuring 80’s Action Stars. 00:00-15:35: Intro/Rambo: Last Blood 15:36-22:20: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 22:21-23:55: Between Two Ferns: The Movie 23:56-30:59: Tigers Are Not Afraid 31:00-46:47: 5 Best Modern (Other) Films Of 80’s Action Stars 46:47-48:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 20, 2019
TFR Ep. 468: Hustlers, Alphaville, French New Wave Marathon Awards
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss Lorene Scafaria’s ‘Hustlers’. Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu play exotic dancers struggling to make ends meet after the financial crisis who hatch a less than reputable scheme. The film has a lot to say about the Recession, sex work, greed, and the complicated relationships experienced between women. But is it good? With a heavy heart (by Chris) our French New Wave Marathon closes with Godard’s ‘Alphaville’. Will the sci-fi noir thriller finally be the one to obtain Matt’s affections? There’s the always fascinating review of the big releases on Blu-Ray and DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with the French New Wave Awards. Find out who had the best performances. What was the best scene? And which film ended up on top. That and more, on this week’s show. Oui! 00:00-14:00: Intro/Hustlers 14:01-23:16: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 23:17-31:31: Alphaville 31:32-40:57: French New Wave Marathon Awards 40:58-42:19: Wrap Up TFR Theme by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 13, 2019
TFR Ep. 467: It: Chapter 2, The Nightingale, Shoot The Piano Player, 5 Favorite Horror Film Posters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt confront their entirely rational fear of clowns with ‘It: Chapter 2’. Pennywise and the Losers return for a final confrontation. Can the film deliver the relatively good scares of the first film and improve of Stephen King’s generally maligned ending? Chris then shares his thoughts on the new film from ‘The Babadook’, writer and director Jennifer Kent with ‘The Nightingale’. Kent’s second film expands into a new environment and tackles larger themes. Does it avoid the sophomore slump? Our French New Wave Marathon continues with the penultimate film in the series, ‘Shoot The Piano Player’. Will the down on his luck musician be able to live a happy, satisfied life after experiencing tragedy? Will he be dragged into a life of crime by his ne’er-do-well family? And have fun? There’s the semi-regularly entertaining review of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show closes with Matt and Chris discussing their Favorite Horror Film Posters. A segment perfect for an auditory medium. 00:00-14:07: Intro/It: Chapter 2 14:08-19:46: The Nightingale 19:47-27:17: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 27:18-35:41: Shoot The Piano Player 35:42-52:17: Top 5 Favorite Horror Movie Posters 52:18-53:49: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, September 06, 2019
TFR Ep. 466: The Peanut Butter Falcon, Midsommar Director’s Cut, Jules And Jim, Call It!
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt caught up with the elusive ‘Peanut Butter Falcon’. Shia LeBeouf, Zack Gottsagen, and Dakota Johnson star in this Mark Twain-esque folktale that is maybe too indie? Chris shares his thoughts about Ari Aster’s Director’s Cut of ‘Midsommar’. The French New Wave marathon continues with Francois Truffaut’s ‘Jules And Jim’. Will Matt finally come around, or will Chris’ dedication actually start to slip…? There’s the always rewarding rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Then it’s the return of TFR’s Pick ‘Em game, Call It! You want John Wick or Matrix sequels? Apocalypse Now or Platoon? Favorite Dracula? And more! 00:00-09:39: Intro/The Peanut Butter Falcon 09:40-15:53: Midsommar Director’s Cut 15:54-21:20: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 21:21-28:25: Jules And Jim 28:26-48:47: Call It! 48:38-52:02: Wrap Up Theme music provide by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 30, 2019
TFR Ep. 465: Ready Or Not, Breathless TFR Libs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt play a little game of Hide and Watch as the checked out the new thriller, ‘Ready Or Not’. Samara Weaving stars as a just married bride who has to play a game with her in-laws on her wedding not to be accepted into the family. But it’s a game…to The DEATH!. Then it’s on to the second film in our French New Wave Marathon, Jean-Luc Goddard’s ‘Breathless’. The film that broke all the roles and changed cinema forever. How much will Matt dislike it? There’s the interminably funny review of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. The big show then wraps up with the return of everyones favorite fill-in-the-blanks game, TFR Libs. Disney cancelling the licensing of archived Fox films is _____. Chris Rock’s ‘Saw’ reboot is _____. And more! 00:00-10:43: Intro/Ready Or Not 10:44-16:59: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 17:00-30:44: Breathless 30:45-48:29: TFR Libs 48:30-52:48: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 23, 2019
TFR Ep. 464: Good Boys, The Kitchen, The 400 Blows, TFR Lounge
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt review the raunchy comedy starring 12 year-olds, ‘Good Boys’. Produced by the folks that brought you ‘Super Bad’ and ‘Sausage Party’, three friends are desperate to get to a kissing party and have to navigate all kinds of crazy obstacles. Get those smooches kids! Is it the comedy hot of the summer, or just wholly inappropriate (which is still cool)? Chris then shares his thoughts on ‘The Kitchen’. The Vertigo graphic novel adaptation stars Melissa McCarthy, Tiffany Haddish, and Elizabeth Moss as wives whose criminal husbands get pinched (look at me using cool gangster lingo) and decide to take over the family business. What is that business. It’s crime! After that, the French New Wave Marathon begins with François Truffaut’s ‘The 400 Blows’. The classic, semi-autobiographical tale of a young man in fighting to survive in a world determined to beat him down. Is the film a home run out of the gate for the marathon, or has it simply just not aged well? There’s the riveting rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. The show then wraps with a special edition of the TFR Lounge as Matt and Chris discuss all the crazy news that’s dropped this week. Will Disney and Sony work out their differences or is Spider-Man gone from the MCU for good? How about the Bond 25 title reveal? And do we need a fourth Matrix? Gee whiz! That’s a lot of stuff. 00:00-11:30: Intro/Good Boys 11:31-16:42: The Kitchen 16:43-27:45: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 27:46-38:07: The 400 Blows 38:08-58:12: TFR Lounge 58:13-59:08: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 16, 2019
TFR Ep. 463: Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark, The Farewell, Memories Of Murder, What Are The Odds?
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt gather around the campfire and discuss ‘Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark’. The big screen adaptation of the beloved children’s horror series is here, but is it a faithful…and scary update? Then Chris shares his thoughts about Lulu Wang’s ‘The Farewell’. Does Awkwafina’s much lauded performance deliver? And is the film the heartbreakingly sweet dramedy we’ve all been hearing about? Matt and Chris move on to one of Bong Joon-Ho’s (Parasite, The Host) earliest films, ‘Memories Of Murder’. It’s a mystery thriller based on true events. Is it another winner for Joon-Ho that delivers the scares and heartfelt moments? There’s the usually entertaining rundown of the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. And a cool new bonus feature: Chris loses all his notes! Finally, it’s the return of our oddsmaker game, What Are The Odds where we tackle QT’s Oscar chances, James Gunn’s Suicide Squad 2, and Disney’s concerns with Fox’s more…violent properties. It’s a bughunt, man! 00:00-10:10: Intro/Scary Stories To Tell In The Dark 10:11-13:51: The Farewell 13:52-20:23: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 20:24-27:00: Memories Of Murder 27:01-49:16: What Are The Odds 49:17-51:50: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 09, 2019
TFR Ep. 462: Hobbs And Shaw, Holmes And Watson, 5 Favorite Spin-Offs
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss “Hobbs and Shaw” and “Holmes and Watson”. AND! It’s a week of partners, friends, and attempts at humor from all involved. First up, it’s a spin-off from the go-to “that’s ridiculous” franchise, “Fast and Furious”. Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham star as the titular Hobbs and Shaw. They’re tasked to defeat Idris Elba’s mechanically super-sized bad guy and save the world. All the while taking stinging jabs at each other. Oh for fun! Then Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly are reunited in last summer’s sure-fire comedy hit, “Holmes And Watson”. There’s nothing these two can’t make hilarious… Right?!? There’s the always exhilarating run down of the big releases on physical media, featuring the Streaming and Straight to DVD Picks of the Week. This thrilling episode closes with Matt and Chris’ 5 Favorite Movie Spin-Offs. Sumbitch! 00:00-12:45: Intro/Hobbs And Shaw 12:46-19:43: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 19:44-27:14: Holmes And Watson 27:15-40:40: 5 Favorite Spin-Offs 40:41-41:48: Wrap Up Theme music by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
Fri, August 02, 2019
TFR Ep. 461: Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, Dragged Across Concrete, 5 Favorite Tarantino Characters
This week on The First Run, Chris and Matt discuss one of their most highly anticipated films of the year, Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Once Upon A Time…In Hollywood’. The film has stirred up some controversy and divided viewers. All signs of a masterpiece? Then it’s the latest from possibly the most visceral director working today, S. Craig Zahler, it’s ‘Dragged Across Concrete’. Will the brutality and engagement continue? There’s the big releases on Blu-Ray & DVD, featuring the Straight to DVD and Streaming Picks of the Week. Finally, Matt and Chris share their 5 Favorite Quentin Tarantino characters. We happy? Oh, we happy. 00:00-19:28: Intro/ Once Upon A Time…In Hollywood 19:29-26:45: Blu-Ray & DVD Picks 26:46-34:12: Dragged Across Concrete 34:13-47:28: 5 Favorite Quentin Tarantino Characters 47:29-50:03: Wrap Up Theme music provided by Jamal Malachi Ford-Bey
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