Cosmic Circus Podcasts

John & Vin preview 10 films they're most excited for from Sundance 2025. From time travel and goofy comedies to documentaries and tense thrillers, join us as we take a look at the newest batch of films from one of the world's biggest independent film festivals.   Bubble & Squeak - USA Director(s): Evan Twohy Screenwriter: Evan Twohy Starring: Himesh Patel, Sarah Goldberg, Steven Yeun, Dave Franco, Matt Berry The Things You K ll - Turkey Director(s): Alireza Khatami Screenwriter: Alireza Khatami Serious People - USA Director(s): Pasqual Gutierrez & Ben Mullinkosson Screenwriters: Pasqual Gutierrez & Ben Mullinkosson Starring: Pasqual Gutierrez Train Dreams - USA Director(s): Clint Bentley Screenwriters: Clint Bentley & Greg Kwedar Starring: Joel Edgerton, Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy By Design - USA Director(s): Amanda Kramer Screenwriter: Amanda Kramer Starring: Juliette Lewis Endless Cookie - Canada Director(s): Seth Scriver, Peter Scriver Screenwriters: Seth Scriver, Peter Scriver Luz - Hong Kong/China Director(s): Flora Lau Screenwriter: Flora Lau The Wedding Banquet - USA Director(s): Andrew Ahn Screenwriters: Andrew Ahn & James Schamus Starring: Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran If I Had Legs I'd Kick You - USA Director(s): Mary Bronstein Screenwriter: Mary Bronstein Starring: Rose Byrne, A$AP Rocky, Conan O'Brien Rabbit Trap - UK Director(s): Bryn Chainey Screenwriter: Bryn Chainey Starring: Dev Patel For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

John and Vin review Flow, a groundbreaking animated film from Latvia. Set after a mysterious apocalyptic event, animals explore the Earth in a post-human world. The 85-minute film contains no dialogue and was rendered entirely on Blender, a free animation software. How does it compare to The Wild Robot? Is this better for kids or adults? Join John and Vin as they break down this monumental achievement in their preparation for awards season. Now a Golden Globes 2025 winner! FLOW (Straume, 2024) Directed by Gints Zilbalodis Written by Gints Zilbalodis, Matīss Kaža Music by Gints Zilbalodis, Rihards Zaļupe For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

John & Vin discuss the history of #Nosferatu on screen. From F.W. Murnau's 1922 film to Robert Egger's 2024 film, with special mention of Werner Herzog's 1979 remake and other versions of Dracula as well! Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror (1922) Directed by F. W. Murnau Screenplay by Henrik Galeen Based on Dracula by Bram Stoker Starring Max Schreck Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979) Written and Directed by Werner Herzog Based on Dracula by Bram Stoker Based on Nosferatu by F. W. Murnau and Henrik Galeen Starring Klaus Kinski, Isabelle Adjani Nosferatu (2024) Written and Directed by Robert Eggers Based on Nosferatu by F. W. Murnau and Henrik Galeen Starring Bill Skarsgård, Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

Vic and Vin breakdown the new Superman (2025) trailer. The boys talk about some of their favorite pieces of inspiration they noticed, and what these story decisions could mean for the future of James Gunn's new DCU. #superman #superheromovies #supermancomics For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

The holiday season might be over, but we're not done celebrating one of the greatest times of the year! That's right; there's nothing like a Doctor Who Christmas special to make our spirits bright! With the return of Steven Moffat as the writer of Doctor Who: Joy to the World, we have much to be thankful for and much to discuss! In this episode of The Cosmic Circle, host Brian Kitson and writers Wiktor Reinfuss and Cameron Brook break down all the excitement from this special. What about this special worked for them? Was there anything they wished was different? Also listen to their thoughts about the upcoming season!  

John & Vin discuss their favorite movies of 2024. Each critic lists their top 10, along with honorable mentions and a special section about missing films they wish they had seen. In a year that featured everything from Nosferatu to Emilia Perez, Anora to We Live in Time, Alien: Romulus and Deadpool & Wolverine, what did the guys choose as their year-end best? Tune in to find out! Find the full video reviews of some of the movies mentioned linked below! Anora, The Wild Robot, Will & Harper https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KkDSUVEW44I&t=999s Red Rooms https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtR4lmSWH1E&t=326s Smile 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLlkwM1rn9M&t=1048s Tatami https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xS0N2Bg0-N8&t=14s The Count of Monte Cristo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AC0InqJz1eE&t=327s The Remarkable Life of Ibelin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89yVpiqayCA&t=1631s The Substance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7bJzNyEl0w&t=1003s U Are the Universe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG9PN4B6zOY&t=361s U Are the Universe interview with the writer/director Pavlo Ostrikov https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiMPIEUg4_0&t=13s For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

  John and Vin got together immediately following the release of the trailer for the upcoming Superman film to share their first reaction to the trailer. Find the video version of this review on YouTube https://youtu.be/QYgqKaqey18?si=sC_EQcR4sR5uI6Sh   Superman is directed by James Gunn and stars David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult. The film's expected release is July 11, 2025  For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com   Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

Get ready for James Gunn's latest project with Creature Commandos! Join us as we explore the world of this new DC animated series and see what it has in store for us! John & Vin discuss their general thoughts on and reaction to Creature Commandos season 1 after watching screeners for the full season. (SPOILER-FREE). Find the video of this podcast on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Rgtre9nusGE?si=e20wJGGbKU9faamN   CREATURE COMMANDOS (2024) Showrunner: Dean Lorey Written by: James Gunn Starring: Zoë Chao as Nina Mazursky Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr. Sean Gunn as G.I. Robot & Weasel David Harbour as Eric Frankenstein Alan Tudyk as Doctor Phosphorus Indira Varma as the Bride For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

With the finale of Superman & Lois titled "It Went By So Fast" now available online, Vic and Vin discuss the legacy of the four-season television series. From the breathtaking opening sequence of season 1 to the emotional epilogue of season 4, this DC series is a triumphant achievement in the canon of Superman. Superman & Lois stars Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch as Clark Kent/Superman and Lois Lane, with Alex Garfin and Michael Bishop as their "Super Sons" Jordan and Jonathan Kent. Superman and his family take on the notorious villain Lex Luthor this final season, played by Michael Cudlitz. The show is streaming on the CW, Max and other providers.   For more articles, reviews, news and interviews, visit https://thecosmiccircus.com  

Join Vin as he shares his instant reaction to the brand-new DC animated series, Creature Commandos! nd the Frankenstein universe. Find the video version of this review on YouTube https://youtu.be/fmoXynCKkt0?si=u4jAA8j3isLQmfZT   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

Vic and Vin discuss one of the most legendary Spider-Man storylines, Kraven's Last Hunt. They also look back at Sony's Spider-Man Universe and the potential for the upcoming Kraven The Hunter movie starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson! KRAVEN'S LAST HUNT (1987) Written by J. M. DeMatteis Pencilled by Mike Zeck Inked by Bob McLeod Lettered by Rick Parker Colored by Bob Sharen, Janet Jackson, Mike Zeck For the video of this review, visit our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/i52HRGscDqg   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

John & Vin dive deep into Jon M. Chu's Wicked. Does the newest Wizard of Oz installment live up to expectations? How does it build on the legacy of the books, movies, and musicals that have come before?   Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning and Oscar®-nominated powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda. The two forge an unlikely but profound friendship, until their lives take very different paths. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Find the full video of this review on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vwqrO9kVoPk?si=1dX0V1VWwOdpS0Lh       For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

John & Vin continue their discussion of Gladiator II with a spoiler-filled deep dive into the twists and turns of Ridley Scott's new sequel. This next chapter is produced by Scott Free Productions and distributed by Paramount Pictures. The script was written by David Scarpa, based on a story idea by Peter Craig. Set years after the original 2000 Oscar-winning film, the sequel features Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus. Returning cast members include Connie Nielsen as Lucilla and Derek Jacobi as Gracchus. New additions to the cast are Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Denzel Washington. Here is the full synopsis: Years after witnessing the death of Maximus at the hands of his uncle, Lucius must enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his home. With rage in his heart and the future of the empire at stake, he looks to the past to find the strength and honor needed to return the glory of Rome to its people. Find the video version of this review at https://youtu.be/NMM5X9ahBPU   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

John and Vin review the long-awaited sequel, Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott. This next chapter is produced by Scott Free Productions and distributed by Paramount Pictures. The script was written by David Scarpa, based on a story idea by Peter Craig. Set years after the original 2000 Oscar-winning film, the sequel features Paul Mescal as Lucius Verus. Returning cast members include Connie Nielsen as Lucilla and Derek Jacobi as Gracchus. New additions to the cast are Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Denzel Washington.  Find the full video review on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/-zvZG7a53s8?si=OwhgkKwY_cGAUnSP   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus (now on Bluesky @TheCosmicCircus.com) or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

Vin breaks down his thoughts on Paddington in Peru and the state of the Paddington franchise. Paddington in Peru is now playing in the UK, Ireland, Poland and some other countries (so check your local listings) and lands in theaters in the United States January 17, 2025 Find the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EJB1V4XPz-Q?si=pqb70JNrRLxS2du0   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

Should you watch Gladiator II? Vin gives a quick late night instant reaction to the new Gladiator movie from Ridley Scott. Stay tuned for his full-length discussion next week with John! #gladiator #gladiator2 #moviereview #newmovie Find the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EJB1V4XPz-Q?si=pqb70JNrRLxS2du0   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus

In this episode of The Cosmic Circle, Anthony, Vin and Wiktor (aka "Vic") discuss the full season of HBO's The Penguin in all its spoilery details! So come back later if you haven't watched the whole season yet because it was a great discussion! The three talk about the brutal nature of Colin Farrell's Oswald Cobb and Cristin Milioti's Sofia Falcone, the show's similarities with The Sopranos, and the shocking twists in the series. The Penguin series, podcast credits and show notes Contributors/Writers Anthony Flagg Wiktor Reinfuss Vin   Executive Producer/Editor Lizzie Hill Recorded on 11/14/2024 For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

John and Vin return for Part 2 of their Smile 2 discussion, diving deep into the film's spoilers, sequel potential, and spiritual connections to Wes Craven's Scream. For part one, the non spoiler review of Smile 2 go here: https://youtu.be/sLlkwM1rn9M?si=wILhZAMFQDX3WT0Y For a video version of this review, go here: https://youtu.be/8qFcjQXflVU?si=9RQQLFlDLjvjqEU0   Originally recorded October 17, 2024   For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is now available to watch on Netflix, and John and Vin discuss Benjamin Ree's breathtaking film. The fascinating documentary previously made a splash at Sundance, attracting rave reviews, and was picked up by the streaming service shortly after. The documentary centers on a Norwegian gamer named Mats Steen, who suffers from a degenerative condition that slowly takes away mobility. To find a life beyond his own growing limitations, gaming became something extraordinary. The result was a remarkable life no one knew about until now. Find the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/89yVpiqayCA?si=7zXzDBZhn8-fr-xh&t=3 You can find James' Review of The Remarkable Life of Ibelin here: https://thecosmiccircus.com/ibelin-movie-documentary-review/ For more nerdy pop culture coverage, including movie and TV news, reviews, and interviews by The Cosmic Circus contributors, visit https://www.thecosmiccircus.com Follow us on social media @mycosmiccircus or visit the Linktree to find us: https://linktr.ee/cosmiccircus  

With the recent release of Venom: The Last Dance, there was no denying a need to talk about this one on an episode of The Cosmic Circle. Join host Brian Kitson and fellow writers Uday Kataria and Wiktor Reinfuss as they discuss the highs and lows of this final chapter in the Venom trilogy. Do you think they liked the film? What were their impressions of the CGI? Do they think the story is riddled with holes? Near the end the three discuss what the future holds for the Sony Marvel Spider-Man universe such as with Kraven The Hunter.   Find more reviews from these writers on TheCosmicCircus.com and follow our YouTube channel @TheCosmicCircus for movie and show reviews from John & Vin!