A+Z Movie Review Podcast

Episode 52 - Wicked: For Good

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0800

No good pod goes unpublished! Alex and Zach return to the mics for a return to Oz and the conclusion of the Broadway hit adaptation Wicked: For Good. They discuss how it lines up with the original stage production, how Act 2 compares to its Act 1 movie and stage predecessors and get in deep on the music and lore of Oz. Plus, they dive in on all of its possible awards chances and so, so, so much more.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:52 - General Non-Spoiler Thoughts
11:37 - Concession Stand (Candy - Sweet/Positive Notes) - SPOILERS AHEAD
23:18 - Concession Stand (Popcorn - Salty/Negative Notes) - SPOILERS AHEAD
40:21 - Concession Stand (Refreshments - Wash-It-Down/Other Notes) - SPOILERS AHEAD
46:05 - Original Songs
49:10 - "Clock Tick"
50:50 - Original Songs (cont.)
53:40 - Other Reactions
1:03:14 - Song Review Rundown
1:06:19 - Box Office
1:15:14 - Wrap-Up
1:20:38 - Outro

Episode 51 - K-Pop Demon Hunters

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 13:51:09 -0700

The Honmoon is sealed! Alex and Zach sing along with Netflix's surprising chart-topper: K-POP DEMON HUNTERS. We talk about the film's absolutely BOPPING soundtrack, our coming around to watch the film and its stunning breakthrough into the mainstream. We also discuss whether this cultural surge could send the movie and its songs into legitimate Oscar contention.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:33 - Background
2:20 - Non-Spoiler Review
10:27 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
29:55 - Favorite Songs
35:44 - Opening up to K-Pop?
39:22 - Oscar Opportunities? Animated? Original Song?
47:58 - Outro

Episode 50 - The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 18:13:57 -0700

"I herald his beginning. I herald your end." We herald the return of Alex and Zach to the MCU! We take our first steps into Phase Six with the return of Marvel's First Family to the big screen in THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS. We compare the 37th film in the MCU to the previous cinematic attempts at the Fantastic Four, examine if its retro-future style over substance and how this movie takes us towards the end of the Multiverse Saga and Avengers: Doomsday.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:55 - Background
3:30 - Non-Spoiler Review
17:15 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
46:39 - Fantastic Four + Tomorrowland in Disneyland
50:39 - Post-Credit Scenes - SPOILERS AHEAD
54:18 - MCU Connections / Looking Ahead to Avengers: Doomsday - SPOILERS AHEAD
1:00:46 - Other MCU Projects
1:04:01 - Avatar 3: Fire and Ash Trailer Thoughts
1:06:17 - What's the next "big" movie?
1:09:07 - Outro

Episode 49 - Superman

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:04:08 -0700

There's always a way. Alex and Zach leap into the sky for the start of a new DC Universe with the arrival of SUPERMAN. We discuss if James Gunn's vision for this Man of Steel is a hit and what the future is for rebooted cinematic universe. We look into the chemistry of David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan as Clark Kent and Lois Lane, the dripping evil of Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor and if, ultimately, they got the character of Superman right. (Spoiler: they absolutely did.)

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
3:22 - Non-Spoiler Review
12:28 - Starting the New DC Universe
17:32 - General Discussion
19:58 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
59:15 - Lois, Clark and Lex
1:02:01 - KRYPTO!
1:07:33 - "Politics"
1:09:39 - What's Next in the DCU? Future of Batman?
1:23:53 - Superman Wrap-Up
1:27:31 - Looking Forward to Fantastic Four
1:29:12 - Alex's Quick Hit on K-Pop Demon Hunters / Outro

Episode 48 - F1 The Movie + Jurassic World: Rebirth

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 10:18:33 -0700

Lights out, and away we go! Alex and Zach jump into the driver seat for the adrenaline-fueled summer blockbuster of F1 THE MOVIE. We discuss if Brad Pitt and company hit top speed or need to turn back into pit lane, and we ask if this movie will create new fans of the sport. Plus, as fans of the sport ourselves, we strut our wheel knowledge of how well this translates Formula One racing from track to screen.

Also, after taking another ill-fated trip to dinosaur island, Zach gives a quick rundown on Jurassic World: Rebirth. Yet another movie in the franchise where they were, again, more concerned with if they could than if they should.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:03 - F1 General Discussion/Background
8:56 - F1 Non-Spoiler Review
13:43 - F1 Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
42:05 - Does This Create New F1 Fans?
45:52 - F1 "This Wouldn't Actually Happen" Nit Picks
56:41 - F1 Sequel?
58:40 - Jurassic World: Rebirth Non-Spoiler Review
1:00:30 - Jurassic World: Reb irth Quick Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
1:05:52 - Outro

Episode 47 - Materialists

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0700

You are not a catch, because you are not a fish. Alex and Zach have a date night for A24 and Celine's Song new RomCom (?) MATERIALISTS. We explore whether or not it's actually a RomCom and if the trailers built up expectations the movie couldn't match. We also talk through whether this movie, for all of its expert craftmanship, isn't filled out by its characters or actors.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:14 - Non-Spoiler Review
10:10 - Concession Stand
24:37 - Reacting to Twitter Reactions / Other Plot Points
35:48 - Outro

Episode 46 - Sinners

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 18:31:28 -0700

You keep dancing with the devil, and one day he's going to follow you home. Alex and Zach finally saw writer-director Ryan Coogler's newest cinematic blast SINNERS. We see if we can handle a dip into the horror side of film, and let you know whether it's easy to stomach. (Short answer: YES! (*with caveats from Alex)). We examine the movie's exploration of race relations in the Jim Crow South mixed in with an explosion of vampire tension.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:19 - Background
3:15 - Non-Spoiler Review
22:07 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
47:42 - Further Questions - Good Title? Franchise Opportunity?
54:15 - Coogler’s Unique Ownership Rights
59:21 - Outro

Episode 45 - Thunderbolts*

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 06 May 2025 17:41:02 -0700

"Okay, that was pretty good." Alex and Zach jump back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as it begins its turn back towards big-time stakes with THUNDERBOLTS*. We see if the 36th film in the MCU lives up to its early hype, hitch our wagons to Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova/Black Widow) and Lewis Pullman (Bob!) and examine how this team-up pushes the MCU back on the rails.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
2:35 - General Discussion/Background
5:35 - Non-Spoiler Review
14:47 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
43:12 - Wish to Have Seen? - SPOILERS
50:41 - Post-Credit Scene - SPOILERS
57:13 - Outro

Episode 44 - 2025 Oscars Reactions

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0800

Hollywood's Biggest Night goes to... ANORA! The indie sex worker dramedy takes home five Oscars to be the big winner at the 97th Academy Awards. Alex and Zach run through the production of the show and grade host Conan O'Brien. What and why were those song performances? What jokes hit? Plus, we break down the historic night for Anora's Sean Baker, the surprise of Mikey Madison and the rest of the big awards.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:06 - Background
2:10 - How Was The Show?
4:15 - What Were Those Song Performances For?
17:29 - Stand-Out Moments
21:49 - Awards Talk: Anora's Big Night
30:06 - Other Big Winners: Kieran Culkin, Zoe Saldaña
32:18 - Adrien Brody and His Big Speech
36:33 - Below the Line Winners: Dune Part Two, Wicked, Speeches by Documentary and Short Film Winners
39:54 - Other Ceremony Notes
43:48 - Looking Forward
46:48 - Outro

Episode 43 - Nickel Boys - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0800

If everybody looks the other way, then everybody's in on it. Alex and Zach round out the 2025 Best Picture slate with one of the most uniquely told and impactful story of the nominees: Nickel Boys. We examine this extremely necessary telling of this under-documented side of the Civil Rights movement and the first-person point-of-view camera style that sets it apart from the rest.

Plus, we give our final rundown of the 10-film Best Picture race and compare the field against years past.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
0:56 - Completing the Best Picture Gauntlet
2:12 - Background / General Discussion
7:05 - Non-Spoiler Review
15:45 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
34:50 - Oscar Chances
37:26 - Final Best Picture Discussion
42:15 - Is This a Good Best Picture Nominee Field?
51:21 - Outro

Episode 42 - The Brutalist - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 07:30:00 -0800

It is the destination, not the journey. Alex and Zach continue their Best Picture journey with the tome that is "The Brutalist." The length of the film has been much-discussed here and elsewhere, and we let you know straight away if that should deter viewers from taking in the film. We also get into a bigger Best Picture discussion with the heavy-hitters under our belt.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:24 - Should the Length of "The Brutalist" Turn People Away?
7:55 - Background
10:59 - Non-Spoiler Review
18:31 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
39:11 - Oscars Chances
48:46 - Best Picture Chances
53:08 - Outro

Episode 41 - Anora - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:30:00 -0800

We shared our playlist with the DJ, and he was very rude and dismissive. Alex and Zach ride along with the entertainingly manic rollercoaster of Best Picture nominee Anora. We discuss where this early front-runner now sits in the Oscars conversation and take-in one of the more rewatchable, hilarious and tragic nominees of the year.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:18 - General Discussion (Background, etc.)
6:33 - Non-Spoiler Review
8:52 - Best Picture Discussion
16:03 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
37:09 - Oscars Chances
38:39 - Oscar Voter Criticism
44:01 - Oscar Chances (cont.)
46:01 - Outro

Episode 40 - The Substance - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:30:00 -0800

Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself? Alex and Zach dissect the bold body horror Best Picture nominee "The Substance". We let you know right off the top if we recommend seeing this at times wild and at times grotesque look on beauty standards on women and women in Hollywood and shift focus to Best Actress front-runner Demi Moore.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:08 - Would You Recommend This Movie? / Non-Spoiler Review
5:41 - Awards Conversation / General Discussion
9:20 - Demi Moore, Best Actress?
13:28 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
28:35 - Oscars Chances
33:16 - Outro

Episode 39 - I'm Still Here - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:30:00 -0800

Greatness in unexpected places. Alex and Zach pour over a surprise Best Picture contender with the Brazilian film I'm Still Here. We express our love for a film that caught us off guard, from the production to the performances, including the singular work of Fernanda Torres. Plus, we look at its awards chances and our hopes for the movie.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
0:54 - General Discussion
2:34 - Non-Spoiler Review
11:50 - Best International Feature
18:22 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
35:20 - Oscars Chances
40:01 - Outro

Episode 38 - Conclave - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:23:01 -0800

This is a war! Alex and Zach investigate the papal election thriller Conclave, a dark horse Best Picture candidate. We dissect the twists and turns of this captivating story, the string of unexpected reveals and look into the Oscars chances, particulary the performance of Ralph Fiennes and adapted screenplay.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:43 - General Discussion
4:02 - Non-Spoiler Review
12:50 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
29:34 - Oscars Chances
38:36 - Outro

Episode 37 - A Complete Unknown - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 14:28:24 -0800

Track some mud on the carpet! Alex and Zach gather 'round to explore the work of legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan in 2025 Best Picture nominee A Complete Unknown. We celebrate the bevy of great performances (both acting and singing) and see where it stacks up against other musician biopics and other Best Picture and Acting nominees.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:03 - General Discussion (Background, Our Dylan Knowledge, Nominations, etc.)
4:58 - Non-Spoiler Review
9:42 - Timothée Chalamet/Best Actor Discussion (Sebastian Stan "The Apprentice"/Colman Domingo "Sing Sing")
16:26 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
35:35 - Oscars Chances
40:05 - Outro / Where to Watch Oscar Nominees

Episode 36 - Captain America: Brave New World

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 08:30:00 -0800

On your left! Alex and Zach take a break from awards season for the return of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Sam Wilson's big-screen debut as the new Captain America. We push back against the critical reception to the 35th film in the MCU, look into what charms and thrills and where it sits among the current MCU discourse and the installments to come this year.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:03 - General Discussion (Light MCU Talk, Critical Reception, etc.)
4:37 - Non-Spoiler Review
20:19 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
47:04 - Extra Points - SPOILERS
52:27 - MCU Post-Credit Scenes - SPOILERS
56:18 - Outro Upcoming MCU Slate

Episode 35 - Emilia Pérez - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 16:19:38 -0800

Alex and Zach get into the most controversial and most nominated 2025 Oscar contender: Netflix's Emilia Pérez. We dive into this bold swing of a French-made musical about a transgender Mexican drug lord, the discussions around the film's content and production as well as its award season drama.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:20 - General Discussion (Background, Nominations, etc.)
4:46 - Non-Spoiler Review
15:35 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
30:15 - Transgender Criticism
34:30 - Mexico Criticism
37:25 - Karla Sofía Gascón Social Media Controversy
39:13 - Awards Chances
54:54 - Netflix Awards Woes
58:50 - Outro

Episode 34 - Dune: Part Two - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0800

Lisan al gaib! Alex and Zach continue into the Best Picture race with their look at Dune: Part Two. We explore this modern epic, see where this sand worm soared compared to its Part One, and look at its chances on Oscar Sunday.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
2:30 - General Discussion (Nominations, Popcorn Bucket, etc.)
9:14 - Non-Spoiler Review
16:00 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
31:38 - Awards Chances
33:59 - Outro

Episode 33 - Wicked - 2025 Best Picture Nominee

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 22:20:46 -0800

Good news! Alex and Zach are back! We jump right into the 2025 Oscars Best Picture race with one of our favorite film of last year, Wicked. We break down the witchy musical, give their thoughts and take a look at its awards chances, plus some early thoughts on the Best Picture race and how to watch all the nominees.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:42 - Oscar Nominations Rundown
5:01 - Non-Spoiler Review
17:09 - Concession Stand (Sweet, Salty, Refresher) - SPOILERS AHEAD
44:49 - Awards Chances
50:14 - Where to Watch Best Picture Nominees
53:12 - Outro

Episode 32 - 2024 Oscar Nominations

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 14:56:46 -0800

Alex and Zach are BACK to kick off the high time of Awards Season with the 2024 Oscar Nominations. They discuss all the top line awards for the March 10 ceremony, determine if it will be a runaway year for Oppenheimer and look into perceived snubs for Barbie. Plus, they detail each category and layout where to find all the Best Picture nominees on streaming.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:44 - Oppenheimer - Most Nominations
3:19 - Best Picture Nominees
8:48 - Best Director Nominees
12:06 - Best Actor/Actress Nominees
22:53 - Best Supporting Actor/Actress Nominees
44:32 - Best Animated Film
58:31 - Where to Watch Best Picture Nominees
1:00:38 - Outro

Episode 31 - The Super Mario Bros. Movie + Trailers, Star Wars & Harry Potter News

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 17:15:11 -0700

Alex and Zach press start, eat a mushroom and break open the block on The Super Mario Bros. Movie. They go down the warp pipe on the wildly fun video game adaptation that has broken box office records. Plus, they detail all the new trailers from the week (Barbie, Blue Beetle, Spiderverse, Indiana Jones), outline all the new Star Wars film announcements, give their quick Dungeons & Dragons review and preemptively decry the Harry Potter HBO series (which was officially announced after recording).

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:33 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
23:08 - SPOILER DISCUSSION
54:09 - Trailer Discussion
1:07:15 - Star Wars Announcements
1:12:02 - Quick Dungeons & Dragons Review
1:14:00 - Harry Potter Series Teardown
1:21:04 - Outro

Episode 30 - Shazam! Fury of the Gods

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:43:27 -0700

Alex and Zach say the word and zap back into the DC Universe with Shazam! Fury of the Gods. They fly through this fun kid-turned-superhero sequel and break down the fraught nature of the current/ending/resetting DC Comics film universe. Plus, they discuss the announced future of DC Studios w James Gunn.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
2:18 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
17:15 - Low Box Office/Current State of DC Films
22:44 - SPOILER Discussion
1:01:58 - Future of the DC Universe
1:23:17 - Outro

Episode 29 - 2023 Oscars

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 23:29:44 -0700

Alex and Zach give their immediate reactions to the 2023 Academy Awards. They break down a near-sweep of big wins for Everything Everywhere All At Once, including Best Picture and a surprise for first-time winner Jamie Lee Curtis. They discuss all the winners, including a slew of undercard wins for All Quiet on the Western Front, the cap of Brendan Fraser's award renaissance and RRR prevailing over live performances from Rihanna and Lady Gaga. Plus, quick pre-show predictions and a look at Disney's latest live-action trailer for The Little Mermaid.

TIME STAMPS:
0:27 - Intro
2:42 - Pre-Show Predictions
17:08 - Reactions to the 2023 Oscars (Peaches/Pits/Surprises)
29:52 - Category Rundown
34:18 - Breakdown of Best Song Performances
38:26 - More Categories
46:13 - Acting Categories
50:40 - Best Picture
53:18 - Other Show Notes
59:22 - The Little Mermaid Trailer/Live-Action Disney Remakes
1:10:06 - Outro

Episode 28 - Tár

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:03:47 -0800

Alex and Zach keep in time in the Cate Blanchett-led force of Tár. They applaud Blanchett's Oscar-nominated performance, roll through the slow-building turn of the film and examine its niche depiction of cancel culture and a fall from grace. Plus, another round of updated Academy Award Best Picture rankings (so far).

TIME STAMPS:
0:27 - Intro
2:05 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
17:19 - Academy Awards Discussion
20:08 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
1:05:05 - Best Picture Rankings (So Far)
1:10:11 - Best Actress Breakdown
1:14:06 - Upcoming Oscars Roundup
1:16:45 - Outro

Episode 27 - Triangle of Sadness

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 14:31:43 -0800

Alex and Zach sail the high seas with the absurdist satire Triangle of Sadness. They examine what exactly the movie even is, its motives and motifs. Plus, another round of their Oscar Best Picture rankings so far.

TIME STAMPS:
0:27 - Intro
1:29 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
10:01 - Awards Discussion
16:36 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
51:50 - SPOILER Ending Discussion
57:53 - Best Picture Rankings
1:04:07 - Outro

Episode 26 - The Banshees of Inisherin

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 04 Mar 2023 12:45:19 -0800

Alex and Zach call up to the pub for the delightful Irish dark comedy The Banshees of Inisherin. They run down the brilliant acting performances for the full cast of Oscar nominees and break down the Best Picture chances for the Martin McDonagh written and directed feature. Who named it their favorite movie of 2022?

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Intro
3:25 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
14:27 - Awards Discussion
22:12 - SPOILER Discussion
54:46 - Best Picture Rankings
1:00:23 - Best Actor/Best Supporting Discussion
1:08:34 - Outro

Episode 25 - All Quiet on the Western Front

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 17:12:44 -0800

Alex and Zach get back on the road to the Oscars with the German-produced adaptation of the classic novel All Quiet on the Western Front. They detail the expert craftsmanship of the film that has it high in the running for many technical awards and discuss if it has the juice for a run at Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

TIME STAMPS:
- 0:27 - Intro
- 5:41 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
- 13:44 - Academy Awards Discussion
- 26:39 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
- 53:35 - Best Picture Rankings (So Far)
- 58:31 - Movie News Discussion
- 1:03:54 - Outro

Episode 24 - Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 14:17:42 -0800

Alex and Zach head down subatomic to enter Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. They discuss the introduction of the MCU's new big bad with Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror, the through line of the Ant-Man family story and the future of the multiverse. Plus, the examine the critical reaction and Rotten Tomatoes score of the film.

TIME STAMPS:

0:28 - Intro
1:30 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
13:59 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
50:08 - SPOILER Credit Secen Discussion
57:56 - Rotten Tomatoes Score
1:00:48 - Outro

Episode 23 - Everything Everywhere All At Once

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Alex and Zach righted a wrong, filled in a bagel hole and finally saw Everything Everywhere All At Once. They jump across this wild, weird, ambitious, beautifully woven Best Picture nominee and determine if they absolutely love it. Plus, they dissect its leading 11 Oscar nominations and handicap the Best Picture race as they've seen it so far.

TIME STAMPS:
- 0:27 - Intro
- 2:38 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
- 13:12 - Oscar Nominations
- 25:27 - SPOILER Discussion
- 57:50 - Best Picture Rankings (So Far)
- 1:03:45 - Outro

Episode 22 - Oscar Nominations

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:30:00 -0800

Alex and Zach break down the field of nominees for the 95th Academy Awards. They outline the Best Picture race, and continue the discussion about including popular films versus films most people haven't seen (yet). Plus, they dive into every category, peg the favorites and discuss the very early morning nomination ceremony itself.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Intro
0:45 - Nomination Ceremony/Early Morning
3:20 - General Oscars Discussion
8:19 - Popular Movies vs Movies People Haven't Seen
12:45 - Best Picture
20:15 - Technical/Smaller Categories
48:31 - Acting Categories
59:13 - Best Director
1:02:55 - Listener Comments
1:04:58 - Outro

Episode 21 - The Menu

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Alex and Zach take a seat the table and order from The Menu, starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Fiennes and Nicholas Hoult. They discuss the dark comic stylings of this delicious thriller, whether the food was any good and if anyone actually deserved their fates in the film.

TIME STAMPS:

0:28 - Intro/Non-Spoiler Talk
11:02 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
54:17 - SPOILER Postgame Discussion
1:05:02 - Outro

Episode 20 - 2023 Golden Globe Awards

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 01:31:53 -0800

Alex and Zach immediately react to the 2023 Golden Globe Awards. They rate the actual production of the show's return and grade the wide swath of winners, including a dissection of Austin Butler's still baffling use of his Elvis voice. Plus, Alex and Zach talk quickly about the television winners and how the film winners will play into the Oscars.

TIME STAMPS:

0:28 - Discussion of the Show
12:01 - Grading the Film Winners
23:26 - Dissecting Austin Butler's Elvis Voice (and his win)
28:39 - Continuing the Film Winners/Show Elements
41:00 - TV Awards
48:30 - Final Thoughts/Projecting Towards Oscars
52:41 - Outro/Listener Question

Episode 19 - The Whale + 2022 Review + 2023 Preview

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 19:35:38 -0800

Alex and Zach take in one last film for 2022 with Darren Aronofsky's The Whale, and they discuss Brendan Fraser's singular and awards-buzzing performance. Then, they look back on their year at the movies - what stood out and what ratings would they change? Finally, they wrap up with a preview of a loaded 2023 blockbuster slate.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Intro
3:38 - The Whale
36:37 - 2022 Year in Review
1:06:39 - 2023 Blockbuster Preview
1:27:39 - Outro

Episode 18 - Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 19:59:42 -0800

Alex and Zach inbreathiate the latest from writer-director Rian Johnson: Glass Onion, the sequel to the 2019 murder-mystery Knives Out, starring Daniel Craig as the world's greatest detective, Benoit Blanc. They get to the bottom of this colorful whodunnit, dissect Johnson's work and discuss how many twists are one too many.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
14:41 - SPOILER Discussion
47:28 - Outro/Upcoming

Episode 17 - Babylon

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 28 Dec 2022 17:12:23 -0800

Alex and Zach go on a wild ride for Damien Chazelle's tribute to Hollywood's golden age: "Babylon," starring Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie and Diego Calva. They discuss the chaotic highs and lows of the film and the soaring performances of one of the most interesting entries on the awards season slate. Plus, your hosts took a field trip to experience an AMC Theatre and the the wonder of the Nicole Kidman introduction.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
25:16 - SPOILER Discussion
1:22:00 - AMC Theatres' Nicole Kidman Introduction
1:27:11 - Outro

Episode 16 - Avatar: The Way of Water

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 11:37:54 -0800

Alex and Zach DIVE IN on James Cameron's epic sequel 13 years in the making - Avatar: The Way of Water. They discuss the original Avatar and its place in popular culture, before heading off to the theater and getting into the visual spectacle and character focus of the second installment. They also talk about the franchise's future, as well as the Pandora-themed land at Disney's Animal Kingdom in Orlando, and finish up with a bonkers IMAX preview of Tom Cruise jumping off a cliff several times in the next Mission: Impossible.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Pre-Movie Discussion on Avatar (2009)
10:23 - Non-Spoiler Discussion on Avatar: The Way of Water
30:00 - SPOILER Discussion
1:05:12 - Theme Park Discussion on Pandora at Disney's Animal Kingdom
1:13:30 - Outro
1:16:05 - Discussion on IMAX behind-the-scenes preview of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One

Episode 15 - Spoiler Alert

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 10:48:51 -0800

Alex and Zach grab the tissues for Spoiler Alert, a bittersweet love story based on Michael Ausiello's memoir "Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies." They highlight the natural, authentic and true tale of true love and grief. Stick to the end for some movie news and trailer talk.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Background/Non-Spoiler Discussion
15:01 - SPOILER Plot Discussion
50:40 - Movie's Reception/Reaction
53:24 - Outro
55:56 - Trailer Talk/Movie News

Episode 14 - Golden Globe Nominations

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 14:43:20 -0800

Alex and Zach dissect the first major marker of awards season with the release of the Golden Globe nominees. We discuss the Globes' recent controversy and changes to this year's ceremony, along with all the film and television nominees.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro/Discussion on last year's controversy and this year's ceremony
11:46 - Film Nominees
32:22 - Television Nominees

Episode 13 - Ticket to Paradise

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:45:03 -0800

Alex and Zach take a trip with George Clooney and Julia Roberts back into RomCom land with their latest, light-hearted affair: Ticket to Paradise. They discuss the sparkling chemistry of Clooney and Roberts, and whether the rest of the movie holds up to that classic connection.

TIME STAMPS

0:27 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
11:08 - Plot Discussion
46:06 - Outro

Episode 12 - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever + End of MCU Phase 4

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 19:17:11 -0800

Alex and Zach dive into the final film of Phase 4 of the MCU fresh off their viewing of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. They discuss the emotional Ryan Coogler-directed sequel, how it handled the death of Chadwick Boseman and take the character of Black Panther forward. Plus, they break down the now complete Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
10:17 - SPOILER Discussion
1:14:44 - End of MCU Phase 4
1:18:00 - Outro

Episode 11 - Bros

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0800

Alex and Zach reopen their hearts to the world of Rom-Coms with a discussion on Bros, written by and starring Billy Eichner. They walk in the park with this landmark gay romantic comedy, talk through the rough box office reception and ask if it actually deserved that.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro + RomCom/Billy Eichner Discussion
5:24 - Non-Spoiler/Box Office Discussion
19:24 - SPOILER Discussion
45:07 - Outro + What's Next

Episode 10 - Black Adam + State of DC Studios

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sat, 12 Nov 2022 11:36:18 -0800

Alex and Zach observe the changing of the hierarchy of power in the DC Universe with the release of Black Adam, starring Dwayne Johnson. Plus, they discuss the true changing of the hierarchy of power at DC Studios and Warner Bros. with the naming of James Gunn and Peter Safran as co-CEOs.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Intro
1:48 - James Gunn named DC Studios CEO
12:24 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
37:40 - SPOILER Discussion
1:03:23 - SPOILER Post-Credit Scene Discussion
1:13:35 - Upcoming DC Movie Slate + Outro

Episode 9 - Don't Worry Darling + THE DRAMA

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:24:08 -0800

Alex and Zach drive through all that is the spectacle of Don't Worry Darling. They discuss all the twists of this Oliva Wilde-directed thriller starring Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Chris Pine, Gemma Chan and Wilde herself, plus give a full breakdown of the drama surrounding the film's production and press tour.

TIME STAMPS:

0:26 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
14:15 - SPOILER Discussion
47:23 - Off-Camera DRAMA Discussion

Episode 8 - DC League of Super-Pets + Bullet Train

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 11:46:20 -0800

Alex and Zach are back! They discuss the late-summer movie lull, plus catch-up with fun reviews of the animated DC League of Super-Pets, starring Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, and action-comedy Bullet Train, starring Brad Pitt.

TIME STAMPS:

0:27 - Summer Break Talk
14:21 - DC League of Super-Pets
25:34 - Bullet Train
41:01 - Outro

Episode 7 - The Gray Man

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0700

Alex and Zach make omelettes and exchange shoe sizes to watch The Gray Man on Netflix, starring Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans and a lot of manicured facial hair. In the spoiler discussion, they run through the movie's NINE action sequences and litany of quips and witticisms.

TIME STAMPS:

1:44 - Non-Spoiler Discussion
20:19 - SPOILER Discussion
1:02:19 - Outro

Episode 6 - Nope + Where the Crawdads Sing

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 18:25:08 -0700

Alex and Zach give their thoughts on two movies they saw separately this week. Zach opens with his thoughts on Jordan Peele's latest thriller Nope, and Alex follows up with a discussion on the book-to-film adaptation of Where the Crawdads Sing.

TIME STAMPS:

1:58 - Non-Spoiler Nope Review
6:48 - Non-Spoiler Where the Crawdads Sing Review
12:00 - SPOILER Nope Discussion
39:56 - SPOILER Where the Crawdads Sing Discussion
1:19:42 - Outro + Looking Ahead

Episode 5 - Comic Con 2022: Future of the MCU + DC + Dungeons & Dragons

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Sun, 24 Jul 2022 15:36:03 -0700

Alex and Zach give their immediate reactions to a huge Saturday from Hall H at Comic Con in San Diego. They react to the redefined phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and future Marvel releases, including the first look at Black Panther: Wakanda Forecer. They also discuss the DC panel for Shazam and Black Adam, the new trailer for Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and other odds and ends from the return of Comic Con.

TIME STAMPS:

3:53 - Marvel Discussion
35:16 - DC Movie Discussion (plus Teen Wolf detour)
58:40 - Dungeons & Dragons, plus Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon, Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and other odds and ends

Episode 4 - Thor: Love and Thunder + State of the MCU/Phase 4 Rankings

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 12:26:36 -0700

Alex and Zach summon the bifrost for the 29th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Thor: Love and Thunder, plus they discuss the current state of the MCU and rank the movies and shows of Phase 4.

TIME STAMPS:

0:36 - Non-Spoiler Review
13:04 - SPOILER Breakdown
1:15:32 - State of the MCU/Phase 4 Rankings
1:40:27 - What's Next
1:42:25 - Outro

Episode 3 - Elvis + Rock Music Biopics

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 21:00:00 -0700

Alex and Zach witness Baz Luhrmann's latest musical explosion Elvis, starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks. They also discuss other recent rock music biopics.

Time Stamps:

0:28 - General NON-SPOILER thoughts
13:38 - SPOILER character and plot breakdowns
46:28 - Elvis, Rocketman, Bohemian Rhapsody and other music biopics

Episode 2 - Lightyear + Pixar Movie Rankings

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0700

Alex and Zach welcome Pixar back to the big screen with Lightyear and fall in love with a new furry friend, Sox. Spoilers will be had in this instant reaction review.

Time Stamps:

0:30 - General NON-SPOILER thoughts
16:27 - SPOILER thoughts, character breakdowns
1:18:04 - Pixar movie rankings

Episode 1 - Review Roundup: Top Gun Maverick, Jurassic World Dominion, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, The Bob's Burgers Movie, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0700

Alex and Zach catch up on the last month of Instagram reviews with thoughts on Top Gun: Maverick, Jurassic World: Dominion, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, The Bob's Burgers Movie and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.

Time Stamps:

8:54 - Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
27:27 - Jurassic World: Dominion
40:56 - The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
47:14 - The Bob's Burgers Movie
54:15 - Top Gun: Maverick

Episode 0 - Welcome to the A+Z Movie Review Podcast

Alex Long and Zach Cavanagh — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0700

Sample episode of the A+Z Movie Review Podcast. Alex and Zach test out the podcast equipment and talk about their two favorite properties: Harry Potter and Star Wars.

Time Stamps:
(3:24) Harry Potter talk
(7:38) Star Wars talk

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