Flick Flops

This week we’re getting horny for the holidays as we unwrap Krampus, the 2015 horror/comedy directed by Michael Dougherty and starring Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, and Allison Tolman. When a dysfunctional family’s Christmas spirit collapses faster than a mall Santa on his lunch break, they accidentally summon a shadowy Alpine demon who punishes the naughty—not with coal, but with nightmare fuel. So did this holiday horror-comedy slay the sleigh, or did Krampus just leave us feeling frostbitten and frustrated?#Krampus #MichaelDougherty #AdamScott #ToniCollette #DavidKoechner #AllisonTolman #HorrorComedy #ChristmasHorror #HolidayMovies #MonsterMovie #CultHorror #DarkComedy #SeasonalScares #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast📀 Release DetailsTitle: KrampusYear: 2015Director: Michael DoughertyWriter(s): Michael Dougherty, Zach Shields, Todd CaseyTop Billed Stars: Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, Allison TolmanRunning Time: 98 minutesCountry of Origin: United StatesOfficial Release Date(s): • November 30, 2015 (Los Angeles premiere) • December 4, 2015 (U.S. wide release)🎬 Background & Interesting DetailsFolklore roots: Krampus is based on a real European Christmas demon from Alpine folklore, traditionally portrayed as punishing misbehaving children—often depicted carrying chains, bells, or sacks for abducting the wicked.Director pedigree: Michael Dougherty is a massive monster nerd, previously co-writing X2 and Superman Returns, before later directing Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019).Practical effects love: Many of the creatures—like the Jack-in-the-Box, gingerbread men, and the deranged toys—were done with practical effects and animatronics, giving the film an old-school Gremlins-style vibe.Tone tug-of-war: The movie intentionally walks a tightrope between horror and comedy, which has made it divisive—some viewers love the pitch-black humor, others want it scarier or funnier, but not both.Holiday subversion: Beneath the monsters and mayhem, the film is openly cynical about consumerism, family dysfunction, and hollow holiday traditions.🎥 Other Projects (Writer / Director / Main Leads)Michael Dougherty (Director/Writer): • Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019) • Trick ’r Treat (2007) • Co-writer on X2: X-Men UnitedAdam Scott: • Parks and Recreation • Severance • Step BrothersToni Collette: • Hereditary • The Sixth Sense • Little Miss SunshineDavid Koechner: • Anchorman • The Office • Talladega NightsAllison Tolman: • Fargo (Season 1) • Good Girls • EmergenceSocial Links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X: https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week we’re decking the halls and trolling a little Yuletide carol as we countdown our Top 5 Christmas Films.  These are the ones we rewatch every year, quote way too much, and argue about like it’s a family tradition.So grab some hot cocoa, and strike the harp while Andy dons his gay apparel… this is our Merry Christmas special!Social Links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X: https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week we get Trapped in Paradise and discuss the 1994 comedy written and directed by George Gallo. Nicolas Cage, Jon Lovitz and Dana Carvey star in this holiday heist as three ex-cons who rob a tiny Pennsylvania bank on Christmas Eve. Did we enjoy our stay with Cage and friends or did this festive fiasco leave us wishing we could escape town too?#TrappedInParadise #GeorgeGallo #NicolasCage #JonLovitz #DanaCarvey #ChristmasCrimeComedy #HolidayHeist #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #90sMoviesRelease Details • Title: Trapped in Paradise • Year: 1994 • Director: George Gallo • Writer(s): George Gallo • Top-Billed Stars: ○ Nicolas Cage as Bill Firpo ○ Jon Lovitz as Dave Firpo ○ Dana Carvey as Alvin Firpo • Running Time: 111 minutes • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): December 2 1994 (USA) Background & Interesting Details • The film was both written and directed by George Gallo, which gave the project a single creative vision. • It was produced by 20th Century Fox. • The town of “Paradise, PA” serves as a charming but improbable setting for a bank-heist holiday film, which critics picked up on as part of the film’s tonal mismatch. • Critical reception was overwhelmingly negative: for example, famed critic Roger Ebert wrote that the film “fights a tendency to come to a dead halt every five minutes” and essentially missed its comedic beats. • Despite poor box office (approximately US $5.8 million in the U.S. per some sources) and bad reviews, it has developed something of a cult following among fans of quirky holiday films. • Filming locations included parts of Ontario, Canada (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Elora) and some New York staging according to international descriptions. • Interesting production note: Casting Carvey and Lovitz (both known primarily for stand-up/SNL-style comedy) alongside Nicolas Cage (dramatic actor) created a tonal mismatch that many believe contributed to the film’s uneven feel.Other Projects (Writer/Director/Main Leads) • George Gallo: Known for writing Midnight Run (1988) and Bad Boys (1995). • Nicolas Cage: Key past projects include Leaving Las Vegas (1995), Face/Off (1997). • Jon Lovitz: Stand-up comedian, former SNL cast member; film roles include Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999). • Dana Carvey: Also ex-SNL; notable film/TV work includes Wayne’s World (1992) and The Church of What’s Happening Now?! (TV).Social Links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X: https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week we submit to arbitration with The Ref, Ted Demme’s 1994 holiday hostage comedy starring Denis Leary, Judy Davis, and Kevin Spacey as the most dysfunctional trio to ever share a Christmas Eve. When a burglar ends up trapped in a house with a family who arguably needs more help than he does, chaos - and some brutally honest therapy - ensues. But did this dark holiday madness cure the onset of our winter blues or is The Ref just the loudest Christmasshole in the room?#TheRef #DenisLeary #KevinSpacey #TedDemme #JudyDavis #ChristmasMovie #DarkComedy #90sMovies #HolidayFilms #MovieReview #FilmAnalysis #CultClassic #ChristmasComedy #FlickFlopsPodcastRelease DetailsTitle: The RefYear: 1994Director: Ted DemmeWriter(s): Marie Weiss, Richard LaGraveneseTop Billed Stars: Denis Leary Judy Davis Kevin Spacey Glynis Johns Raymond J. BarryRunning Time: 96 minutesCountry of Origin: United StatesOfficial Release Date(s): March 9, 1994 (USA)Background & Interesting Details Ted Demme’s breakout film: While he worked heavily in MTV programming before this, The Ref helped solidify his emergence as a feature director. Dark comedy vs. Christmas expectations: The studio struggled to market a movie that was both a holiday film and a caustic marital satire. Over time, it found its audience on cable and home video.Script origins: Writers Marie Weiss and Richard LaGravenese (who also wrote The Fisher King) originally constructed the story as a more serious dramatic hostage scenario before leaning fully into comedy.Judy Davis improvised many lines: Her high-strung performance as Caroline is partly thanks to Davis riffing on-the-fly, which meshed perfectly with Leary’s abrasive comedy style. Leary’s stand-up persona shaped Gus: His rapid-fire ranting was so aligned with the character that some lines were rewritten to fit his cadence.Filming location: Though set in Connecticut, much of the production took place in Toronto, a common mid-90s cost-saving choice.Glynis Johns (the grandmother) is the same actress who played Winifred Banks in Mary Poppins.Cult revival: In the last decade, The Ref has been rediscovered as an offbeat holiday staple for people who love sarcastic, dysfunctional-family Christmas movies.Controversy: Kevin Spacey’s later scandals haven’t affected the film’s cult status much—many fans still revisit it as a sharp comedic ensemble piece.The dinner scene choreography: The climactic dinner sequence took days to shoot because of the number of overlapping insults, blocking, and timing.Other Projects (Director/Writer/Main Leads)Ted Demme (Director) Blow (2001), Life (1999), Beautiful Girls (1996)Marie Weiss & Richard LaGravenese (Writers) LaGravenese: The Fisher King, Living Out Loud, A Little Princess, P.S. I Love You Weiss: Primarily known for The RefDenis Leary Rescue Me (TV), Demolition Man, Ice Age series (voice of Diego), Wag the DogJudy Davis Husbands and Wives, A Passage to India, Barton Fink, Marie Antoinette (2006)Kevin Spacey The Usual Suspects, American Beauty, L.A. Confidential,...

This week we’re breaking our silence on Violent Night (2022), Tommy Wirkola’s holiday brawler starring David Harbour as a Santa who isn’t here for milk and cookies - he’s here to crack skulls. When a squad of mercenaries holds a wealthy family hostage, ol’ Saint Nick teams up with the family’s still-believing daughter to turn Christmas Eve into an all-out sleigh ride of chaos. Did this yuletide beat-down jingle our bells… or was the plot just a little too holy?#ViolentNight #TommyWirkola #DavidHarbour #JohnLeguizamo #AlexHassell #AlexisLouder #BeverlyDAngelo #ChristmasActionMovie #HolidayComedy #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #ActionComedy #ChristmasMovie #SantaClaus #DieHardStyleRelease Details • Title: Violent Night • Year: 2022 • Director: Tommy Wirkola • Writer(s): Pat Casey & Josh Miller • Top Billed Stars: David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Alex Hassell, Alexis Louder, Beverly D’Angelo • Running Time: 112 minutes • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): ○ World premiere: October 7, 2022 at New York Comic Con ○ U.S. theatrical release: December 2, 2022Background & Interesting Details • The idea for the film reportedly originated from a sketch the writers developed in high school, combining the Santa mythos with action tropes. • The film was produced by 87North Productions (led by David Leitch) and directed by Tommy Wirkola, known for his genre-mixing style. • Filming took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, during the harsh winter with temperatures reportedly plunging. • The tone draws heavily from films like Die Hard and Home Alone: the writers said they wanted to explore the “booby-trap” concept of Home Alone—but with more realistic, brutal consequences. • The film had a budget of around $20 million and grossed approximately $76.6 million worldwide. • A sequel, Violent Night 2, is confirmed and slated for December 4, 2026.Other Projects (Director / Writers / Main Leads) • Tommy Wirkola (Director): Known for Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and the Norwegian zombie comedy series Dead Snow. • Pat Casey & Josh Miller (Writers): Previously wrote the Sonic the Hedgehog films. • David Harbour (Lead – Santa): Known for playing Jim Hopper in Stranger Things; also starred in Black Widow. • John Leguizamo (Lead – Mercenary Chief): Known for the “Juan-the-Bug” character in John Hancock; also voice work and comedic roles. • Alex Hassell (Lead – family member): Appeared in series like Masters of the Universe: Revelation; stage actor background. • Alexis Louder (Lead – family member): Emerging actress; known also for her role in Champions.Social Links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X: https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week we are taking a time machine back to 1984 and discussing one of the wildest holiday creature features ever made: Joe Dante’s Gremlins — starring Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, and the half-Yoda, half-Ewok Gizmo. What starts as the world’s cutest Christmas gift quickly mutates into a full-blown small-town monster meltdown because people just cannot follow the rules no matter how many damn times you tell them! Does this film of tiny terrors still deliver holiday cheer… or are the logical leaps and physics failures too much to keep this film from crashing and burning? Mogwai don't you stick around to find out…#Gremlins #Gremlins1984 #Gizmo #Stripe #JoeDante #ChrisColumbus #PhoebeCates #ZachGalligan #80sMovies #HorrorComedy #CreatureFeature #ChristmasMovies #80sClassics #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcastRelease DetailsTitle: GremlinsYear: 1984Director: Joe DanteWriter(s): Chris ColumbusTop Billed Stars:Zach GalliganPhoebe CatesHoyt AxtonPolly HollidayFrances Lee McCainKeye LukeHowie Mandel (voice of Gizmo)Running Time: 106 minutesCountry of Origin: United StatesOfficial Release Date(s): June 8, 1984 (U.S.)Background & Interesting Details • The film was executive-produced by Steven Spielberg, whose influence shaped its mix of horror and heart. • Chris Columbus wrote the script while living in a Manhattan loft plagued by actual mice—his “creature in the night” anxiety grew into Gremlins. • Gizmo was originally supposed to become Stripe, but Spielberg insisted Gizmo stay good to give the movie a sympathetic hero. • The film helped launch the PG-13 rating, along with Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, due to its surprisingly gruesome (and hilarious) moments. • Joe Dante leaned into Looney Tunes-style slapstick—Warner Bros. even opens the film with a vintage Bugs Bunny/Daffy Duck bit. • Many Gremlins were complex animatronics costing up to $40,000 each. Crew members had to check for stolen puppets at the end of each day. • Phoebe Cates’ infamous monologue about her dad getting stuck in the chimney was controversial—even Spielberg debated cutting it—but it became one of the film’s signature dark-comedy moments. • The movie was shot entirely on the Universal backlot; Kingston Falls uses the same town square as Back to the Future. • Gizmo’s vocals were provided by Howie Mandel, while Frank Welker voiced Stripe. • The film was a massive hit, earning over $200 million worldwide and becoming a holiday cult classic with a mischievous twist.Other Projects (Director/Writer/Main Leads)Joe Dante (Director):The Howling (1981)Explorers (1985)Innerspace (1987)The ’Burbs (1989)Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)Chris Columbus (Writer):The Goonies (1985)Young Sherlock Holmes (1985)Home Alone (1990)Home Alone 2 (1992)Later directed Mrs. Doubtfire and Harry Potter 1 & 2Zach Galligan:Gremlins 2: The New BatchWaxwork (1988)Waxwork II (1992)Phoebe Cates:Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)Drop Dead Fred (1991)Bright Lights, Big City (1988)Hoyt Axton:Musician and songwriter (“Joy to the World,” “Never Been to Spain”)Appeared in The Black Stallion and Disorganized CrimeSocial Links:YouTube:

This week, we dive into Wolfs, the 2024 Jon Watts-directed action comedy that finally reunites George Clooney and Brad Pitt after 16 years. Set in a single chaotic night, it follows two lone-wolf fixers who are hired separately—by a DA and a hotel owner—to clean up what seems like a dead man, hidden cameras, shady drug deals, and inevitable betrayal. Does their star power save the film, or did we give this film a full moon?#Wolfs #JonWatts #GeorgeClooney #BradPitt #ActionComedy #CrimeComedy #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #AppleTVPlus #FixerMovie #BuddyAction #NewRelease2024 #FilmDiscussion #HollywoodReunionRelease Details • Title: Wolfs • Year: 2024 • Director: Jon Watts • Writer(s): Jon Watts • Top Billed Stars: ○ George Clooney ○ Brad Pitt ○ Amy Ryan ○ Austin Abrams ○ Poorna Jagannathan • Running Time: 108 minutes • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): ○ Premiered at Venice International Film Festival: September 1, 2024 ○ Limited theatrical release in the U.S.: September 20, 2024 ○ Streaming release on Apple TV+: September 27, 2024Background & Interesting Details • Wolfs marks the reunion of George Clooney and Brad Pitt on-screen; they’d last appeared together in Burn After Reading (2008). • Produced by Apple Original Films, Smokehouse Pictures (Clooney), Plan B Entertainment (Pitt), and others. • There was a bidding war for the rights early on. Apple won out among many studios/streamers. • Filming took place in New York City (including Harlem, Chinatown) starting in January 2023. • Initially planned for a wide theatrical release, but Apple changed strategy: it released Wolfs in a limited number of theaters, then on its streaming platform. This change was controversial. • There had been talk of a sequel, with Clooney, Pitt, and Watts involved. But the sequel was later cancelled by the director (Watts), citing loss of trust with Apple over the theatrical / streaming release decisions.Other Projects (Writer / Director / Main Leads) • Jon Watts (Director / Writer): Before Wolfs, Watts is best known for directing the Spider-Man trilogy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (Spider-Man: Homecoming, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Spider-Man: No Way Home). • George Clooney: Long career; some recent / notable films include The Midnight Sky (2020), The Tender Bar (2021), among many others. And historically, the Ocean’s trilogy, Gravity, Up in the Air, etc. • Brad Pitt: Also extensive, recent/highlighted work: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), Bullet Train (2022), Babylon (2022), etc.Social Links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X: https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

Come on Down… this week we’re heading into the center of a twisted game show nightmare with Your Host, directed by D.W. Medoff and starring  Jackie Earle Haley alongside Ella-Rae Smith, Jamie Flatters and David Angland. Four friends, one sadistic “host”, and a deadly competition where the only prize is survival. Is Your Host a horror diamond or just a Saw-adjacent cubic zirconia?#YourHost #DWMedoff #JackieEarleHaley #EllaRaeSmith #JamieFlatters #DavidAngland #HorrorMovie #TorturePorn #GameShowHorror #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #IndieHorror #Horror2025 #HorrorReview #SadisticGameShowRelease DetailsTitle: Your HostYear: 2025Director: D.W. MedoffWriter(s): Joey MillerTop‐Billed Stars: • Jackie Earle Haley • Ella‑Rae Smith • Jamie Flatters • David Angland Running Time: 1 h 29 m Country of Origin: United States Official Release Date(s): • UK (FrightFest premiere): August 22 2025 • US (Internet/VOD): August 29 2025Background & Interesting Details • Your Host marks another entry in the “trapped friends in sadistic game” horror sub-genre. Critics note the film draws significant inspiration from the Saw franchise, especially in its chained sequences and trap-design. • The film had its world premiere at the FrightFest festival on August 22 2025. • Writer Joey Miller’s script attempts to engage with themes of celebrity scandal, false accusations, and the #MeToo era—but several reviewers feel these elements feel tacked-on rather than deeply explored. • Practical gore effects get positive mentions: one reviewer praises the tactile, old-school practical-effects style rather than heavy CGI. • Reviewers also highlight Jackie Earle Haley’s performance as a standout—his theatrical, commanding presence as the host adds a layer of charisma and menace that elevates an otherwise familiar formula. • Some criticisms: thin character development (the protagonists are introduced already fractured), a predictable ending once the format is clearly revealed, and pacing issues especially in the third act. Other Projects (Director / Writer / Main Leads)D.W. Medoff (Director) • Previous film: I Will Never Leave You Alone (2024) – a more character-driven horror. Joey Miller (Writer) • While specific major writing credits are not widely publicized, Your Host is a significant horror feature script for his portfolio.Jackie Earle Haley • Watchmen (2009) – nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. • A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010) – played Freddy Krueger in the remake.Ella-Rae Smith • The Stranger (2020) – TV thriller series. • Various UK television roles building toward more lead parts.Jamie Flatters • Black Dog (2023) – acted and co-wrote. • Cast in the new adaptation of The Forsyte Saga (2024) as Philip Bosinney. David Angland • Emerging actor; this film provides a higher-profile genre credit.Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmedia

This week, we lace up our shoes, don our watch, accept our dog tags, and begin The Long Walk, the 2025 dystopian survival thriller directed by Francis Lawrence, starring Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Judy Greer and Mark Hamill. Fifty boys. One rule: don’t stop walking. If you slow… you die. Does this adaptation of Stephen King’s early novel earn its place, or is it just step into mediocrity at a medium pace?#TheLongWalk #FrancisLawrence #StephenKing #FlickFlopsPodcast #DystopianMovie #SurvivalThriller #TeenHorror #MarkHamill #CooperHoffman #DavidJonsson #JudyGreer #RomanGriffinDavis #CharliePlummer #WalkingContestMovie #AdaptationMovieRelease DetailsTitle: The Long WalkYear: 2025 Director: Francis Lawrence Writer(s): JT Mollner (screenplay) Top-Billed Stars: • Cooper Hoffman • David Jonsson • Garrett Wareing • Tut Nyuot • Charlie Plummer • Ben Wang • Roman Griffin Davis • Josh Hamilton • Judy Greer • Mark Hamill Running Time: 108 minutes Country of Origin: United States Official Release Date(s): • United States: September 12, 2025 • (Some other territories: e.g., Portugal Sept 11, Brazil Sept 18) Background & Interesting Details • The film is adapted from the 1979 novel The Long Walk by Stephen King (written under his pseudonym Richard Bachman). • The adaptation faced a long development history: as early as 1988 director George A. Romero was considered. Later, in 2007, director Frank Darabont optioned it. • Principal photography began July 24, 2024 in Winnipeg (Canada) and wrapped September 12, 2024. • The film was shot chronologically, an uncommon approach meant to deepen the performers’ experience of the gradual physical and emotional decline. • According to interviews, cast and crew logged 8-15 miles of walking per day (≈25,000-30,000 steps) during production, underscoring the physical demands of the film. • The score was composed by Jeremiah Fraites (of The Lumineers fame) and includes an original country-ballad song “Took a Walk”. • Visually and thematically, many reviewers compare the film’s tone to high-stakes dystopian contests (e.g., who will survive) and comment on its stark, relentless pacing. For example, one Guardian review calls it “surely one of the grimmest mainstream movies we’ve had for some time”. • Criticisms include that the world-building is minimal and the premise thin, leaving viewers to fill in large gaps. • The film is distributed by Lionsgate. Other Projects (Director / Writer / Main Leads) • Francis Lawrence: Known for The Hunger Games films (Catching Fire, Mockingjay Parts 1 & 2), I Am Legend, Constantine. • JT Mollner: Screenwriter/director (less high-profile than the director, but notable for writing The Long Walk). • Cooper Hoffman: Son of Philip Seymour Hoffman; breakout role in Licorice Pizza (2021) among others. • David Jonsson: British actor; prior credits include The Underground Railroad (TV), The Rig (TV). • Garrett Wareing: Younger actor; credits include Top Gun: Maverick (supporting) and Prey for the Devil (2022). • Tut Nyuot: Emerging actor; less high-profile but part of ensemble. • Charlie Plummer: Known for Lean on Pete (2017), All the Money in the World (2017). • Ben Wang: Actor with roles in TV/film; earlier works lesser known. • Roman Griffin Davis: Gained acclaim for Jojo Rabbit (2019). • Judy Greer: Veteran actress; known for 13 Going on 30, Jurassic World, many supporting roles. • Mark...

This week, it's not another two-fer - we end the spooky season with a triple feature! We discuss 2025's I Know What You Did Last Summer and Good Boy plus a divergence into the 2020 remake of The Brain That Wouldn't Die!  Three films, Two old guys, One podcast - zero time to waste…  Welcome to the final episode of this year's FlickFloptober!#TheBrainThatWouldntDie #DerekCarl #HankHuffman #RachaelPerrellFosket #PatrickDGreen #CultHorrorRemake #MadScientistMovie #BMovieHorror #IndieHorror #HorrorComedy #SciFiHorror #IKnowWhatYouDidLastSummer #JenniferKaytinRobinson #MadelynCline #ChaseSuiWonders #JonahHauerKing #TyriqWithers #JenniferLoveHewitt #FreddiePrinzeJr #SlasherMovie #HorrorMovie #LegacySequel #Summer2025Movies #GoodBoy #BenLeonberg #AlexCannon #ShaneJensen #ArielleFriedman #LarryFessenden #IndyTheDog #SupernaturalHorror #DogPerspective #HauntedHouseMovie #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast🎬 Release DetailsTitle: The Brain That Wouldn’t DieYear: 2020Director: Derek CarlWriter(s): Hank Huffman, Derek Carl (based on the 1962 screenplay by Joseph Green)Top Billed Stars: Rachael Perrell Fosket, Patrick D. Green, David Withers, Mia AllenRunning Time: 83 minutesTitle: I Know What You Did Last SummerYear: 2025Director: Jennifer Kaytin RobinsonWriter(s): Jennifer Kaytin Robinson & Sam Lansky (based on a story by Robinson & Leah McKendrick)Top Billed Stars: Madelyn Cline, Chase Sui Wonders, Jonah Hauer‑King, Tyriq Withers, Sarah Pidgeon, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Freddie Prinze Jr.Running Time: 111 minutesTitle: Good BoyYear: 2025Director: Ben LeonbergWriter(s): Ben Leonberg and Alex CannonTop Billed Stars: Shane Jensen, Arielle Friedman, Larry Fessenden, plus the dog Indy in the title role.Running Time: Approximately 73 minutes.🧠 Background & Interesting DetailsThe Brain That Wouldn’t DieThe 2020 Brain That Wouldn’t Die was filmed in Portland, Oregon, using Kickstarter funding to complete post-production.Derek Carl and Hank Huffman set out to make a nearly shot-for-shot remake of the 1962 original but infused it with tongue-in-cheek humor and meta-commentary on outdated gender and science tropes.The original 1962 film had fallen into the public domain — allowing the team to legally reimagine it freely.The film premiered at the Portland International Film Festival and made the rounds at indie horror festivals before hitting VOD.The set design intentionally mimics the cheap charm of 1950s sci-fi: visible seams, rubber tubing, and theatrical lighting were used to recreate that “late-night horror host” vibe.The filmmakers even recreated several famous lines — including Jan’s chilling plea: “Let me die!” — word-for-word from the original.Critics were divided: some praised its sincere affection for B-movies, while others felt it leaned too heavily on ironic nostalgia.I Know What You Did Last SummerThis film is the fourth installment in the franchise that began with the 1997 original I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) and its sequel I Still Know What You Did Last Summer (1998). It ignores the events of the 2006 film I’ll Always Know What You Did Last...

This week, we revisit the Overlook Hotel, but don't book your travel plans just yet. In Doctor Sleep, directed by Mike Flanagan and starring Ewan McGregor, Rebecca Ferguson, and Kyliegh Curran, we pick up Danny Torrance’s story decades later, as he battles addiction and supernatural predators to protect a young psychic. Sometimes monsters aren't under your bed, they are actually in your head - but is this a vision worth staying awake for, or just another nightmare best forgotten?#DoctorSleep #MikeFlanagan #StephenKing #TheShiningSequel #HorrorMovie #PsychicThriller #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #EwanMcGregor #RebeccaFerguson #KylieghCurran #SupernaturalHorror #Addiction #Recovery #TrueKnotRelease DetailsTitle: Doctor SleepYear: 2019 Director: Mike Flanagan Writer(s): Mike Flanagan (screenplay) (based on the novel Doctor Sleep by Stephen King) Top Billed Stars: • Ewan McGregor as Dan/Torrance (Dan “Danny” Torrance) • Rebecca Ferguson as Rose the Hat • Kyliegh Curran as Abra Stone • Cliff Curtis as Billy Freeman Running Time: 152 minutes (theatrical) Country of Origin: United States Official Release Date(s): • World premiere: October 21, 2019 (Regency Village Theater, Los Angeles) • Theatrical: November 8, 2019 (U.S.) • International / Halloween window: globally earlier around October 30–31, 2019 Plot SummaryYears after the events at the Overlook Hotel, Dan Torrance (formerly “Danny” in The Shining) is haunted not only by the supernatural echoes of that trauma, but by his own struggle with alcoholism. Working in a hospice, he uses his residual psychic power—his “shine”—to comfort dying patients, earning the nickname “Doctor Sleep.”A young girl named Abra Stone, who manifests an unusually strong shine, connects with Dan psychically. However, she’s being hunted by a vampiric cult known as The True Knot, led by the charismatic and dangerous Rose the Hat, who feed off the psychic energy of children who shine.Dan and Abra form a fraught partnership. To protect her, Dan must confront his past, step back into the domain of supernatural horror, and reckon with the lingering forces tied to the Overlook Hotel, where past and present collide in a final confrontation.Background & Interesting Details • The film is an adaptation of Stephen King’s 2013 novel Doctor Sleep, but Flanagan’s challenge was more complex: he had to reconcile King's source material with the iconic imagery from Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining—a film King famously dislikes but which looms large in popular imagination. • Flanagan approached the project with the mindset of a fan: honoring both King’s intentions and the visual legacy of Kubrick’s film. • During production, Flanagan says he decided to give up alcohol. He has spoken openly about how writing and directing Doctor Sleep helped catalyze his sobriety. • Many cast and crew were already sober or in recovery, which added emotional authenticity to the film’s themes of addiction and recovery. • Stephen King, who has generally been critical of The Shining (the film), reportedly warmed toward Doctor Sleep because Flanagan was willing to adjust the ending and reintroduce the Overlook in a way that honored both his novel and Kubrick’s imagery. • The Director’s Cut of Doctor Sleep extends the run time and includes scenes that Flanagan felt were essential to fully realize his vision. This version is available on home media. • There was once development for a Hallorann prequel (focusing on the character Dick Hallorann), but the underwhelming box office response for Doctor Sleep led Warner Bros. to shelve it. Other Projects (Writer / Director / Main Leads) • Mike Flanagan — other noted works include The...

It's another Two-fer  as we take on The Ritual & Amityville Backrooms!The Ritual (2025), is a horror film directed by David Midell and starring heavyweights Al Pacino and Dan Stevens which dramatizes the infamous 1928 exorcism of Emma Schmidt, putting two priests at odds over faith, doubt, and spiritual warfare. …and Amityville Backrooms (2024), a "horror" experiment (you aren't kidding) from writer/director Evan Jacobs starring Chris Lohman and Mike Hartsfield. In this film, a man enters the infamous Amityville house and finds himself trapped in a "mind-bending" looping dimension where every door leads back into itself.#TheRitual  #DavidMidell #AlPacino  #DanStevens  #ExorcismMovie  #HorrorFilm #TrueStory  #EmmaSchmidt  #BegoneSatan #Possession  #MovieReview  #FlickFlopsPodcast  #HauntedCinema  #PriestHorror #HistoricHorror #AmityvilleBackrooms #EvanJacobs #HorrorMovie #IndieHorror #MicroBudgetFilm #BackroomsHorror #HauntedHouse #MindBending #CreepySpaces #HorrorExperiment #LiminalSpace #MazeHorror #TrappedInHouse #TrappedByMovie #TapOutRelease DetailsTitle: The RitualYear: 2025Director: David MidellWriter(s): David Midell, Enrico NataleTop Billed Stars: • Al Pacino (Father Theophilus Riesinger) • Dan Stevens (Father Joseph Steiger) • Abigail Cowen (Emma Schmidt) • Ashley Greene (Sister Rose) • Patricia Heaton (Mother Superior) • Patrick Fabian (Bishop Edwards) Running Time: 98 minutes (≈ 1h 38m)Country of Origin: United States (co-production with India also listed)Official Release Date(s): • United States: June 6, 2025 • United Kingdom & Ireland: May 30, 2025 • Originally slated for April 18, 2025 (then rescheduled)Other Projects (Writer / Director / Main Leads) • David Midell (Director / Co-Writer) Harder to trace (indie background), The Ritual is his most visible work to date. • Enrico Natale (Co-Writer / Producer / Editor) Works often in smaller-scale features; his editing/production contributions are more behind-the-scenes, and his credits are less widely known outside of this film. • Al Pacino Iconic roles include The Godfather series, Scarface, Scent of a Woman, Dog Day Afternoon, Heat, The Irishman, and many more. • Dan Stevens Known for Downton Abbey, Beauty and the Beast (2017), The Guest, Legion (TV), Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Death on the Nile, The Man Who Fell to Earth. • Abigail Cowen Roles in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Fate: The Winx Saga, Redeeming Love. • Ashley Greene Best known from the Twilight saga, plus films like Skateland, The Apparition. • Patricia Heaton Famous for TV work: Everybody Loves Raymond, The Middle, Carol’s Second Act.Release DetailsTitle: Amityville BackroomsYear: 2024Director: Evan Jacobs Writer(s): Evan JacobsTop Billed Stars: • Chris Lohman (as Keith) • Mike Hartsfield (as Alex) • (Also Jeff Hylton is credited) Running Time: ~72 minutes(One listing for the DVD says 73 min)Country of Origin: United States Official Release Date(s): • Digital / streaming — September 5, 2024 • DVD publication listing shows a “release date” of April 15, 2025 (for the physical edition)Other Projects (Writer / Director / Leads) • Evan Jacobs (writer / director) — I could not locate a robust filmography for him in mainstream sources; this appears to be one of his more visible genre works (especially within indie horror). • Chris Lohman (plays Keith) — not widely known; his credits are limited in the public sources I checked (largely indie / small...

This week it is a two-fer, as we serve up The Pickleball Exorcist and Womb reviews. The Pickleball Exorcist is a horror-comedy directed and written by Evan Jacobs, starring Mike Hartsfield as a demonic pickle baller wielding Satanic paddles. And Womb, a horror-thriller from director Bridget Smith, starring Taylor Hanks as a 22-year-old recovering addict who is pregnant and seeking peace in a remote cabin getaway. Folks, we watched these so you don't have to!#ThePickleballExorcist #EvanJacobs #MikeHartsfield #ChrisLohman #HorrorComedy #IndieHorror #SatanicRacket #Pickleball #CultFilm #TubiHorror #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #DriveDropDinkDie #ExorcistSpoof #Womb #BridgetSmith #HorrorMovie #Thriller #FetalAbduction #HauntedCabin #IndieHorror #SurvivalThriller #Motherhood #PregnancyHorror #ThrillsAndChills #2025Movies #MovieReview #TaylorHanksRelease Details: • Title: The Pickleball Exorcist • Year: 2025 • Director: Evan Jacobs • Writer(s): Evan Jacobs • Top Billed Stars: Mike Hartsfield, Chris Lohman, Paul Bradford • Running Time: around 82 minutes (1h 22m) • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): ○ Domestic (USA) release on DVD: June 10, 2025 ○ Streaming/TV-MA release on Tubi/AppleTV etc in 2025Background & Interesting Details: • The title The Pickleball Exorcist (originally something like Pickleball Massacre) was changed by the distributor to have “Exorcist” in it. • Micro-budget film. Many of the effects are cheesy on purpose: props that look like cheap Halloween store items, obvious low-budget practical gore and body parts. • Shot in neighborhood settings, including the director turning his backyard into a pickleball court, to save costs. • Emphasis on humor alongside horror: the film leans into the absurdity of “pickelball gone demonic” to satirize both the sport/fad and typical horror tropes.Other Projects (Writer/Director/Main Leads): • Evan Jacobs (Writer/Director): Not widely known in major mainstream titles; works in indie, micro-budget horror/comedy. The Pickleball Exorcist is one of his more talked-about recent projects. • Mike Hartsfield: Plays the possessed pickle baller (“Jed Rittenhour”). Known for indie horror works like Death Toilet sequels (e.g. Death Toilet 4: Brown Snakes On A Plane). • Chris Lohman: The exorcist/cop combo lead. Fewer big credits; mostly indie/horror comedy. • Paul Bradford, etc.: Supporting cast; similarly working in indie circles.Release Details • Title: Womb • Year: 2025 • Director: Bridget Smith • Writer(s): Mike Walsh • Top Billed Stars:  - Taylor Hanks as Hailey  - Myles Clohessy as Raymond  - Ellen Adair as Martha  - Abbey Hafer, Corrie Graham, Brian Anthony Wilson, Elizabeth Yu also in supporting roles. • Running Time: 86 minutes • Country of Origin: United States • Original Language: English • Official Release Date(s):  - Available via VOD in the U.S. on February 11, 2025  - Streaming/digital platforms from April 28, 2025Background & Interesting Details • The idea of fetal abduction is central—not a common horror trope, so the film is tapping into a real-world crime that does happen, which heightens its psychological horror aspect. • Director Bridget Smith also handled editing, indicating a strong personal imprint on the pacing and feel. • Produced by Philly Born Films, it’s an indie horror with a relatively modest budget and scope. • Setting is isolated, in a wilderness cabin—classic horror setup, which the film leverages to build tension via isolation, vulnerability, and betrayal. • Released first on digital platforms, which

It's FlickFloptober, and this week we’re hiding in the bushes for It Follows—David Robert Mitchell’s haunting indie horror that made us terrified of anyone casually walking toward us from across the street. Starring Maika Monroe, the film introduces a sexually transmitted curse that passes from lover to lover like the world’s most sinister game of tag. Does this slow-burn nightmare deliver chills that linger, or did we want to give it the finger? #ItFollows #MaikaMonroe #DavidRobertMitchell #Disasterpeace #HorrorMovie #IndieHorror #CultClassic #SupernaturalThriller #FlickFlopsPodcast #MovieReview #HorrorFans #SlowBurnHorror #PsychologicalHorror #ScreamQueen #A24Style #FlickFloptoberRelease Details: • Title: It Follows • Year: 2014 (limited release 2015) • Director: David Robert Mitchell • Writer(s): David Robert Mitchell • Top Billed Stars: Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Daniel Zovatto, Jake Weary, Olivia Luccardi • Running Time: 100 minutes • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): ○ May 17, 2014 (Cannes Film Festival) ○ March 13, 2015 (United States wide release)Rotten Tomatoes Score: • Critic Score: 95% • Audience Score: 66%Plot Summary:Jay Height (Maika Monroe) is a carefree young woman whose life takes a dark turn after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter. Following a date with a mysterious man, Jay learns she’s been cursed with a supernatural entity that relentlessly stalks its victims at a walking pace—always coming, never stopping, until the target is dead. The only way to pass it on is through sexual intimacy with another person, who will then inherit the curse.As Jay begins to unravel under the weight of paranoia, she bands together with her sister and close friends in a desperate attempt to understand and escape the entity. The terror isn’t about sudden jump scares, but the persistent dread of being pursued by something unstoppable, something that could look like a stranger—or someone you love.The story unfolds like a fever dream, blending horror with surrealism, where the fear doesn’t vanish with daylight and trust becomes just as fragile as safety. By the end, Jay must decide whether to fight, flee, or pass the curse to save herself.Background & Interesting Details: • The film was shot in Detroit, Michigan, giving it a decayed, dreamlike Americana backdrop that adds to its unease. • Director David Robert Mitchell described the inspiration as coming from recurring nightmares he had as a child about being pursued by a slow-moving figure. • The time period is intentionally ambiguous—mixing retro technology (tube TVs, old cars) with modern devices (like Yara’s shell-shaped e-reader). This gives the film a timeless, uncanny atmosphere. • The soundtrack, composed by Rich Vreeland (aka Disasterpeace), is heavily synth-driven and often cited as one of the best modern horror scores, drawing inspiration from John Carpenter’s Halloween. • It Follows became a cult sensation after its Cannes premiere, with critics praising its originality and slow-burn terror. Despite a modest $1.3 million budget, it grossed over $23 million worldwide. • The ambiguous ending—Jay and Paul walking hand-in-hand with a figure in the distance—has fueled years of fan theories about whether the curse truly ended.Other Projects (Writer/Director/Main Leads): • David Robert Mitchell (Director/Writer): Also directed The Myth of the American Sleepover (2010), Under the Silver Lake (2018). • Maika Monroe (Jay): Known for The Guest (2014), Tau (2018), Significant Other (2022). Dubbed a modern “scream queen.” • Keir Gilchrist (Paul): Known for It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2010), Atypical (Netflix series), Dead...

This week we take a little Get Away, a twisted family vacation flick directed by Steffen Haars and written by (and starring) Nick Frost, alongside Aisling Bea. In the film, a British family rolls into a remote Swedish island to join a quaint folk festival—and quickly learns not all traditions are meant to be shared. Was this the perfect vacation or a real nightmare of a trip?#GetAway #SteffenHaars #NickFrost #AislingBea #HorrorComedy #FolkHorror #ComedyHorror #HolidayGoneWrong #MovieReview #FlickFlopsPodcast #KarantänFestival #Svälta #BritishComedy #ShudderOriginal #IFCShudderRelease Details • Title: Get Away • Year: 2024 (theatrical release in North America: December 6, 2024; streaming and UK release: January 10, 2025) • Director: Steffen Haars • Writer(s): Nick Frost • Top Billed Stars: Nick Frost (Richard), Aisling Bea (Susan), Sebastian Croft (Sam), Maisie Ayres (Jessie) • Running Time: 86 minutes • Country of Origin: United Kingdom • Official Release Dates: ○ Theatrical (USA/Canada, limited): December 6, 2024 ○ Streaming/Digital/VOD (USA, UK): January 10, 2025 via Shudder, Sky Cinema, Prime Video internationally ○ In India (OTT): June 6, 2025 on JioHotstarPlot SummaryA quintessential British family holiday—father Richard (Nick Frost), mother Susan (Aisling Bea), and their teenage kids Sam and Jessie—sets off for the remote Swedish island of Svälta to participate in the island's strange Karantän festival. Expecting a quirky cultural experience, they’re instead met with icy locals, bizarre rituals, and an overall unsettling vibeBackground & Interesting Details • The project was originally titled Svalta, based on a pitch acquired in 2019. Nick Frost wrote the screenplay and initially co-wrote with Simon Pegg and others; Lena Headey was attached but replaced by Aisling Bea due to scheduling conflicts. Filming wrapped in Finland in 2023. • It premiered at Fantastic Fest on September 20, 2024 • Distribution: IFC Films and Shudder picked it up for North America, with UK streaming via Sky Cinema; launched OTT in India June 2025 • Critics highlighted its horror-comedy blend, comparing it to The Wicker Man and Midsommar. A delightfully demented twist and final gorefest were praised, though some felt the tone was overextendedOther Projects (Writer/Director/Main Leads) • Steffen Haars (Director): Known for Krazy House and previously involved in the Svalta project. • Nick Frost (Writer/Star): Best known for Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, The World’s End, and Fighting with My Family. • Aisling Bea (Susan): Notable for the TV series This Way Up, Living with Yourself, and Home Sweet Home Alone. Series 5 of Taskmaster. • Sebastian Croft: Appeared in How to Date Billy Walsh and Where is Anne Frank. • Maisie Ayres: Emerging actor; credited in Svalta/Get Away. Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week, we’re sinking our teeth into It Feeds, the 2025 indie supernatural thriller from director Chad Archibald, starring Twilight’s Ashley Greene and X-Men’s Shawn Ashmore. A little girl insists a shadowy entity is literally feeding on her, and when the mother’s own daughter gets caught in the crossfire, things get spine-tingling. Did this meal fail to deliver or are we members of the clean plate club?#ItFeeds #ChadArchibald #AshleyGreene #ShawnAshmore #EllieOBrien #SupernaturalHorror #CreatureFeature #JumpScareHorror #HorrorMystery #IndieHorror #FlickFlopsPodcast #ScaryMovieReview #CanadianHorror #HuluHorror #streamingnow Release Details • Title: It Feeds • Year: 2025 • Director: Chad Archibald • Writer(s): Chad Archibald • Top‑Billed Stars: ○ Ashley Greene (as clairvoyant psychiatrist Cynthia Winstone) ○ Shawn Ashmore (as the distressed father) ○ Ellie O'Brien (as Cynthia’s daughter, Jordan) ○ Shayelin Martin (as the haunted young girl, Riley) • Running Time: 1 h 41 m • Country of Origin: Canada (independent production by Black Fawn Films) • Official Release Dates: ○ Theatrical (limited): April 18, 2025 ○ Streaming/digital: Also April 18, 2025 (and later on various platforms)Plot SummaryCynthia Winstone, a clairvoyant psychiatrist, is approached when a troubled young girl—Riley—breaks into her private practice, claiming a mysterious, malevolent entity is feeding on her. Reluctantly drawn into the case, Cynthia’s investigation deepens when her daughter, Jordan, defies her warnings and becomes entangled with the supernatural presence.Background & Interesting Details • The film premiered at Panic Fest 2025, where it earned Best Actress (Ashley Greene) and Best Creature awards. • A true indie production by Black Fawn Films, It Feeds blends horror, mystery, and family drama with effective practical effects—especially the shadowy creature with long, sinister fingers. • Production is rooted in Canada, and the film’s ambition—and character depth—have been widely praised for transcending typical low-budget constraints. • Critics note its familiar supernatural tropes—as seen in The Conjuring, Insidious, and It Follows—but laud the craft in storytelling, atmosphere, and character-driven drama.Other Projects • Chad Archibald (Director/Writer): Known for indie horror titles like Bite and I'll Take Your Dead. • Ashley Greene: Famous as Alice Cullen in the Twilight saga. • Shawn Ashmore: Notable for portraying Iceman in the X-Men film series. • Ellie O'Brien & Shayelin Martin: Emerging talents; their names are less prominent outside of this film—but their performances are highlighted as standout.Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Robert Redford—actor, director, activist, and founder of the Sundance Institute—who passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89.From his unforgettable turn as the Sundance Kid, to the journalistic fire of All the President’s Men, to the intimacy of Out of Africa and the resilience of All Is Lost, Redford built a career defined not just by iconic performances, but by the belief that stories matter. As a director, he gave us Ordinary People, a landmark of emotional truth. As a visionary, he created Sundance, a haven for independent filmmakers whose voices might otherwise go unheard.This tribute looks back on the man through his works, his words, and the legacy he leaves behind—a reminder that cinema at its best is both art and activism.✨ If Robert Redford’s films touched your life, share your favorite Redford moment in the comments below.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the Flick Flops community for more film retrospectives and tributes.#RobertRedford #FlickFlopsPodcast #Sundance #RobertRedfordTribute #ButchCassidy #TheSting #AllThePresidentsMen #OutOfAfrica #OrdinaryPeople #AllIsLost #hollywoodlegends Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week, we cruise back to the turbulent teenage streets with That Was Then... This Is Now, the coming-of-age adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s novel. Directed by Christopher Cain and starring Emilio Estevez and Craig Sheffer, it’s a tale of brotherhood, betrayal, and the bittersweet march into adulthood. Will this one stand the test of time, or should it have stayed parked in the lot of forgotten ‘80s teen dramas…#ThatWasThenThisIsNow #EmilioEstevez #CraigSheffer #ChristopherCain #SETinton #MorganFreeman #FlickFlopsPodcast #80sMovies #TeenDrama #ComingOfAgeFilm #retrorewind Release Details• Title: That Was Then… This Is Now• Year: 1985• Director: Christopher Cain• Writer(s): Screenplay: Emilio Estevez, Original novel: S. E. Hinton• Top Billed Stars: Emilio Estevez, Craig Sheffer, Kim Delaney, Jill Schoelen, Barbara Babcock, Morgan Freeman• Running Time: ~102 minutes• Country of Origin: United States• Official Release Date(s): November 8, 1985 (U.S.)Plot SummaryMark Jennings (Emilio Estevez) and Bryon Douglas (Craig Sheffer) have been like brothers growing up together—Mark looks up to Bryon, Bryon treats Mark as the younger sibling he never had. Their lives revolve around their neighborhood, their mentor figure Charlie Woods (Morgan Freeman), and reckless adventures.But Bryon begins to change when he falls for Cathy Carlson (Kim Delaney) and tries to take on responsibility, while Mark resists growing up and sinks deeper into destructive choices, including drugs. The two boys start to drift apart, their once-unshakable bond tested by new loyalties and life paths.After Charlie’s tragic death and the disappearance of Cathy’s younger brother M&M, Bryon begins to suspect Mark’s involvement in darker activities. Tensions rise as Bryon must choose between protecting Mark or doing what’s right.The film closes on a bittersweet note: choices are made, consequences fall, and the friendship that once defined both boys can no longer survive unchanged. It’s about growing up, diverging paths, and the painful reality of leaving childhood behind.Background & Interesting Details• Adapted from the novel That Was Then, This Is Now by S. E. Hinton, who also wrote The Outsiders and Rumble Fish.• Emilio Estevez not only starred but also wrote the screenplay. His father, Martin Sheen, helped purchase the rights to the novel in 1982.• Filmed in St. Paul, Minnesota during the summer of 1984.• Marketed as “the first Minnesota movie” since few Hollywood productions had filmed there at the time.• Estevez stated he wanted to capture the “dark” tone of the novel, emphasizing the heavy emotional toll of growing up and losing innocence.• Critics slammed the movie as overly melodramatic and uneven, while audiences—especially fans of the book—were more forgiving.Other Projects (Writer / Director / Main Leads)• Christopher Cain (Director): The Stone Boy (1984), Young Guns (1988)• Emilio Estevez: The Outsiders (1983), Tex (1982), The Breakfast Club (1985), Wisdom (1986 — also wrote and directed)• Craig Sheffer: Some Kind of Wonderful (1987), Nightbreed (1990), A River Runs Through It (1992)• Kim Delaney: Known later for NYPD Blue, Films like The Drifter (1988)• Morgan Freeman: Early career roles before breakout success in the late 1980s and 1990s, Later starred in Glory (1989), Lean on Me (1989), and Driving Miss Daisy (1989)Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week we arm ourselves with Weapons—the mystery-horror from Zach Cregger, starring Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, and Alden Ehrenreich. It’s a tale where 17 kids vanish at 2:17 a.m., but where they went and why it happened is the mystery at the center of it all.  Did Weapons hit the mark for these two knucklehead film reviewers or is it the equivalent of the marksmanship of a stormtrooper?#Weapons #DirectedByZachCregger #ZachCregger #JoshBrolin #JuliaGarner #AldenEhrenreich #HorrorMovie #MysteryThriller #SupernaturalHorror #MissingChildren #MacabreMystery #FlickFlopsPodcast #MovieReview #Summer2025 #BarbarianFollowUp #OriginalHorrorRelease Details • Title: Weapons • Year: 2025 • Director: Zach Cregger • Writer(s): Zach Cregger • Top Billed Stars: Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams, Cary Christopher, Benedict Wong, Amy Madigan • Running Time: 128 minutes (≈ 2 hr 8 min) • Country of Origin: United States • Official Release Date(s): ○ U.S. & Canada wide theatrical: August 8, 2025 ○ International release began as early as August 6–7 in various territoriesPlot SummaryWeapons begins with a chilling mystery: at 2:17 a.m., seventeen children vanish from their third-grade classroom in Maybrook, Pennsylvania—leaving only one child behind, Alex Lilly. As the town reels in grief and suspicion, the narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives.Background & Interesting Details • Following the success of Barbarian (2022), Zach Cregger crafted Weapons as a deeply personal horror epic, drawing inspiration from Magnolia, Prisoners, and A Visit from the Goon Squad • The script spurred a major bidding war early 2023; Warner Bros. acquired it with a $38M deal guaranteeing theatrical release and granting Cregger significant control—earning $10M upfront plus final cut privileges • Casting shifted due to the 2023 labor strikes. Pedro Pascal, Renate Reinsve, and others were initially attached, but scheduling conflicts led to replacements: Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreich, Benedict Wong, and Amy Madigan • Filming took place in Atlanta (May–July 2024), with school scenes shot in Tucker and a gas station in Covington, Georgia • The soundtrack, released August 1, 2025, features compositions by Ryan Holladay, Hays Holladay, and Zach Cregger; includes “Beware of Darkness” by George Harrison (opening) and “Under the Porch” by MGMT (end credits) Other Projects (Key Figures) • Zach Cregger (Director/Writer) ○ Barbarian (2022, horror) ○ Upcoming: Writing/directing a Resident Evil adaptation (announced Jan 2025) • Josh Brolin (Archer Graff) – Veteran actor known for No Country for Old Men, Avengers franchise, etc. • Julia Garner (Justine Gandy) – Notable for Ozark, Inventing Anna. • Alden Ehrenreich (Paul Morgan) – Featured in Solo: A Star Wars Story, Blonde. • Amy Madigan (Gladys) – Seasoned actor with varied roles in film/TV.Social Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast

This week, we creep back to 2022 to discuss Barbarian, the unnerving Airbnb horror from writer-director Zach Cregger. With Georgina Campbell, Bill Skarsgård, and Justin Long leading the way, this nightmare rental mixes social commentary, shocking twists, and a basement you really don’t want to explore. But is this a stay worth booking… or one where you should’ve read the reviews before checking in?#Barbarian #ZachCregger #GeorginaCampbell #BillSkarsgård #JustinLong #HorrorMovies #AirbnbHorror #Barbarian2022 #ScaryMovies #flickflopspodcastSetup • Release Year: 2022 • Director: Zach Cregger • Writer: Zach Cregger • Main Cast: ○ Georgina Campbell as Tess Marshall ○ Bill Skarsgård as Keith Toshko ○ Justin Long as AJ Gilbride ○ Matthew Patrick Davis as “The Mother” ○ Richard Brake as Frank • Runtime: 102 minutes • Budget: ~$4.5 million • Box Office: ~$45 million worldwide • Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics), 71% (Audience) • Metacritic: 78 (generally favorable) • Awards: Won Best Wide Release Film at the 2023 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards; multiple nominations for horror festival accolades.The Flick (Heads) • Performances: Georgina Campbell received strong praise for her grounded and empathetic lead role, while Bill Skarsgård leaned into his unnerving screen presence, playing on audience expectations from It. Justin Long’s darkly comedic turn added tonal variety. • Direction & Writing: Zach Cregger (from sketch comedy troupe The Whitest Kids U’ Know) shocked critics with a sharp and confident directorial debut in horror. • Atmosphere: The film built dread with unexpected pacing, shifting perspectives, and multiple rug-pull twists. • Cultural Relevance: Tapped into modern anxieties about trust, gender dynamics, and urban decay, using the Airbnb setting as an all-too-relatable backdrop. • Critical Strengths: Lauded for subverting horror clichés, balancing humor with genuine terror, and keeping audiences guessing until the end.The Flop (Tails) • Pacing Issues: Some viewers felt the tonal shift halfway through—when Justin Long’s storyline takes over—was jarring. • Unanswered Questions: Critics noted a lack of backstory for “The Mother,” leaving her origin underexplored. • Audience Division: While critics praised its boldness, general audiences were less enthusiastic, leading to a noticeable critic–audience score gap. • Limited Appeal: Its weird, unpredictable narrative structure may alienate viewers who prefer more straightforward horror.The Balance (Edge Cases) • Divisive Tone: The film mixed dark comedy with brutal horror, leaving some to praise its originality and others to see it as inconsistent. • Cult Potential: Already considered by many as a modern cult classic thanks to its shocking turns and willingness to take risks. • Critic vs. Audience Disconnect: High critical acclaim versus a more moderate audience reception highlighted its status as a “critic’s horror darling.”Critic Quotes • “Barbarian is one of the best horror films of the decade so far—funny, scary, and completely unpredictable.” — Rolling Stone • “A wickedly inventive thriller that plays with audience expectations at every turn.” — The Hollywood Reporter • “It starts with a bang but loses steam once the mystery is revealed, settling for shock over substance.” — The GuardianSocial Links:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@tummytwinsinstagram:https://www.instagram.com/flickflopspod/X:https://twitter.com/flickflopspodTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytwinsmediaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/flickflopspodcast