The Nomads of Fantasy

As we wrap up our "Year of Bruce" with special guest Richard Liverman, it's time to spotlight Die Hard 2, a film that often stands in the shadow of its predecessor but deserves its own moment in the Christmas-action spotlight. While the original Die Hard has cemented its place as the go-to holiday action movie, its sequel doubles down on everything that made the first one great. Set during Christmas Eve at a snow-covered airport, Die Hard 2 delivers all the festive chaos you'd expect from John McClane’s unlucky streak. From nerve-wracking shootouts to epic explosions, it’s an adrenaline-pumping reminder that holiday cheer sometimes comes with a lot of collateral damage. True to the promise of a bigger sequel, Die Hard 2 takes the "more is more" approach, boasting higher stakes, more deaths, and even grander explosions. It’s like the original, but on steroids—a relentless ride through mayhem and holiday spirit as only Bruce Willis can deliver. Yet, it rarely gets the recognition it deserves, often dismissed as "just like the first one." But isn’t that the point? It’s unapologetically McClane in peak form, facing off against bad guys in an impossible situation. If the holidays are about revisiting familiar joys, Die Hard 2 should be a perennial classic for action fans. It’s Bruce, it's Christmas, and it’s the perfect way to close out a year celebrating one of Hollywood's most iconic stars. Stick around for a round of Movie 20 Questions! Safe travels, nomads.

Take a deep dive into M. Night Shyamalan's Unbreakable, a film we believe stands as one of the most underrated entries in the superhero genre. Often overlooked, this cinematic masterpiece offers more than just a tale of extraordinary abilities—it delves into the profound dynamics of family and belief. We'll explore how Unbreakable flips the traditional father-son relationship on its head. Instead of a father believing in his son's potential, the film presents a touching narrative where a son believes in his father's hidden greatness. This unique perspective adds layers of emotional depth and challenges conventional storytelling in superhero movies. Join us as we discuss why Unbreakable deserves a spotlight for its innovative approach to the genre and its heartfelt exploration of familial bonds. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to this overlooked classic, this episode will give you fresh insights into why this film is truly special. Stick around until the end for a round of Metacritic Mayhem! Safe travels, nomads.

The original Ghostbusters (1984) is a timeless comedy that perfectly balances humor, adventure, and supernatural elements. The story follows a group of eccentric scientists who turn to ghost-catching after losing their academic jobs. As they face off against otherworldly threats haunting New York City, they discover an impending catastrophe that only they can prevent. What makes the first Ghostbusters so iconic—and why sequels have struggled to recapture its magic—is the incredible chemistry between the cast. Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson bring a sense of natural camaraderie and wit that feels both genuine and endlessly entertaining. Their distinct personalities blend together, creating a team dynamic that grounds the supernatural storyline and makes it relatable. The movie’s impact goes beyond its cast. The music, including Ray Parker Jr.'s unforgettable theme song, amplifies the film's energy, setting the tone for a story that's both spooky and fun. And then there’s New York City itself. The film captures the grit, character, and charm of 1980s NYC, transforming the city into a character all its own. Every street corner, landmark, and ghostly encounter pulls audiences into a lively, supernatural New York that’s thrilling to watch. While recent sequels have added new technology, characters, and modern humor, they’ve been unable to replicate the authentic charm and effortless humor of the original. The first Ghostbusters stands out as a true classic, seamlessly blending horror, comedy, and adventure in a way that feels fresh, funny, and utterly unique. Stick around until the end of the discussion and join us for a round of Movie 20 Questions. Who you gonna call? The Nomads!

Tokyo Vampire Hotel Review: A Fang-tastic Flop That’s Hard to Sink Your Teeth Into When you check into Tokyo Vampire Hotel, you might expect a thrilling, blood-soaked horror fest that lives up to its dramatic name. Instead, you’ll find a chaotic, over-the-top mess that’s more draining than it is exciting. Directed by Sion Sono, known for his daring and unique style, this series somehow manages to be both visually striking and narratively disappointing. Despite its flashes of brilliance, Tokyo Vampire Hotel fails to deliver a cohesive or engaging story, leaving viewers lost in a labyrinth of uninteresting plotlines and hollow characters. The Story: A Chaotic Bite Tokyo Vampire Hotel centers around a battle between two ancient vampire clans, with the fate of humanity hanging in the balance. The concept had potential, especially with the eerie, gothic atmosphere that the series tries to cultivate. Unfortunately, the execution falls flat. The plot quickly becomes a confusing jumble of subplots, time jumps, and dramatic set pieces that fail to connect. Instead of a compelling narrative, viewers are served a chaotic buffet of violence, gore, and supernatural theatrics, none of which feel earned or meaningful. The series never quite decides whether it wants to be a dark fantasy, a survival thriller, or an action horror, resulting in a tonal mess. Uninteresting Protagonists: All Bite, No Charm One of the most significant weaknesses of Tokyo Vampire Hotel is its lackluster characters. Despite strong performances from the cast, particularly Ami Tomite as Manami and Kaho as the enigmatic K, the protagonists feel more like props than people. Their motivations are murky, and their development is practically nonexistent, making it hard for viewers to care about their fates. Shinnosuke Mitsushima and Megumi Kagurazaka bring intensity to their roles, but the script gives them little to work with. Even in the midst of chaos, the characters’ reactions feel strangely muted, as if they’re going through the motions rather than truly living in this world. Visually Striking, But Style Over Substance Credit where it’s due: Sion Sono brings his signature style to the series, filling it with bold, colorful visuals and moments of surreal beauty. The set design of the hotel, with its gothic grandeur and claustrophobic corridors, creates a sense of dread that almost makes you want to see what’s around the next corner. Yet, this aesthetic flair can’t hide the lack of substance underneath. The endless stylized violence and frantic editing become exhausting rather than thrilling, and the series often feels like it’s trying too hard to shock rather than to tell a coherent story. Verdict: Not Worth the Stay Tokyo Vampire Hotel could have been a stylish, adrenaline-pumping addition to the vampire genre. Instead, it ends up feeling like a missed opportunity—a series with a striking visual palette but no real heart. With a convoluted story, uninteresting protagonists, and a style that prioritizes spectacle over storytelling, it’s a show that ultimately bites off more than it can chew. Unless you’re a die-hard Sion Sono fan or in desperate need of something to watch, this is one hotel you might want to skip. Stick around until the end for a round of Movie 20 Questions! Safe travels, nomads.

Legend (1985) is a dark fantasy film directed by Ridley Scott. Set in a mythical, timeless world, it tells the story of the eternal struggle between good and evil. The movie stars Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, and Tim Curry. In this fantasy world, Jack (played by Tom Cruise), a young forest dweller, is in love with Princess Lili (Mia Sara). The two encounter unicorns, magical creatures whose existence maintains light and goodness in the world. However, Lili's curiosity and innocence lead her to touch one of the unicorns, which allows the villain, Darkness (played by Tim Curry), to begin his plan to cast the world into eternal night. Darkness aims to capture and kill the unicorns to extinguish the light, leading to a race against time. Jack, aided by magical creatures and companions, must stop Darkness, rescue Princess Lili, and save the world from eternal darkness. Key Themes and Features: Good vs. Evil: The central conflict revolves around the classic struggle between light and darkness. Visual Style: The film is praised for its stunning cinematography, intricate sets, and atmospheric effects, creating a dreamlike, ethereal world. Tim Curry’s Performance: Tim Curry's portrayal of Darkness is iconic, featuring elaborate makeup and a menacing presence that has made the character memorable. Fantasy Elements: The film is filled with magical creatures such as goblins, fairies, and dwarves, contributing to its otherworldly feel. Although Legend did not perform well at the box office initially, it gained a cult following over the years, particularly for its visuals, score, and the performances of its leads. There are different versions of the film, including a U.S. release with a score by Tangerine Dream and an international version with a Jerry Goldsmith score.

Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995) is the third installment in the Die Hard series, directed by John McTiernan. Bruce Willis returns as NYPD Detective John McClane, this time paired with Samuel L. Jackson, who plays Zeus Carver, a Harlem shopkeeper. The story begins with a bomb exploding in New York City, prompting a mysterious terrorist named Simon Gruber (Jeremy Irons) to demand McClane’s involvement in a series of dangerous tasks around the city. As the plot unfolds, it’s revealed that Simon is seeking revenge for the death of his brother Hans Gruber, the antagonist in the first Die Hard film. The film is known for its intense action sequences, including car chases, bomb defusals, and shootouts, all set against the backdrop of New York City. A significant aspect of the movie is the dynamic between McClane and Zeus, who start as reluctant allies but gradually develop a strong partnership as they work together to outsmart Simon. The movie adds a layer of complexity with Simon’s psychological games and riddles, which keep both the characters and the audience on edge. Die Hard with a Vengeance was a commercial hit, grossing over $366 million worldwide, and received generally positive reviews for its fast pace and the chemistry between Willis and Jackson. While some critics noted it didn't quite match the original Die Hard in terms of suspense, it remains one of the more well-regarded sequels in the franchise. The film’s portrayal of a city under siege and its mix of action and clever plot twists have helped it maintain a lasting impact in the action genre.

"Monkey Man" is an action thriller that marks Dev Patel's directorial debut. The story follows an ex-convict who is released from prison and finds himself in a society plagued by corruption, greed, and moral decay. Inspired by the Indian deity Hanuman, the protagonist embarks on a journey of vengeance, facing various adversities and uncovering deep-rooted societal issues along the way. Set against the backdrop of contemporary India, the film combines high-octane action with profound cultural and political commentary. Patel has expressed his desire to infuse the action genre with "real soul, real trauma, real pain," aiming to go beyond the typical non-stop fight scenes. The narrative touches on themes such as discrimination, poverty, and the caste system, reflecting the complexities and challenges of modern Indian society. "Monkey Man" also features a diverse cast, including Sobhita Dhulipala, Makarand Deshpande, and Sharlto Copley. The film's production faced significant challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Patel's own injuries during filming. Despite these hurdles, the movie was completed and premiered at South by Southwest in 2024, receiving attention for its gritty storytelling and the unique vision brought by Patel both in front of and behind the camera.

"Godzilla Minus One" is a Japanese kaiju film directed by Takashi Yamazaki, marking the first domestic Godzilla movie in seven years. Set in post-World War II Japan, the film explores a nation grappling with the devastation wrought by the atomic bomb, only to face a new terror as Godzilla emerges from the ocean's depths. The story follows Kōichi Shikishima, a former kamikaze pilot burdened by survivor guilt, who becomes embroiled in humanity's struggle against the colossal monster. The film returns to the franchise's roots, using Godzilla as a metaphor for nuclear horror and the aftermath of war, while also delivering intense action sequences and spectacular visual effects. With a strong focus on character-driven storytelling, "Godzilla Minus One" blends historical drama with thrilling kaiju battles, highlighting the resilience and determination of its human characters. Safe travels, nomads.

Did you know Netflix has video games!? Netflix Games is a feature offered by Netflix that allows subscribers to access and play a variety of games directly through the Netflix app on their mobile devices. This initiative is part of Netflix's strategy to diversify its offerings beyond streaming video content and enter the gaming industry. Here are some key points about Netflix Games: Availability: Netflix Games is available to all Netflix subscribers at no additional cost. The games can be accessed through the Netflix app on Android and iOS devices. Game Library: The library includes a range of games, from casual and puzzle games to more immersive and story-driven experiences. The selection of games is regularly updated with new titles being added over time. No Ads or In-App Purchases: Unlike many mobile games, the games offered through Netflix do not contain ads or in-app purchases, providing a seamless gaming experience. Integration with Netflix: Games can be downloaded and played directly from the Netflix app, allowing users to switch between watching shows and playing games within the same application. Variety of Genres: Netflix offers games across various genres to cater to different tastes, including adventure, arcade, strategy, and card games. Exclusive Titles: Some games available on Netflix Games are exclusive to the platform, developed by Netflix or in partnership with other game developers. User Profiles: Games are linked to Netflix user profiles, allowing for personalized game recommendations and the ability to track progress across devices. Netflix's entry into gaming represents a strategic move to expand its entertainment ecosystem and provide added value to its subscribers, keeping them engaged with the platform in new ways.

Join your fellow Nomads as we venture into the irradiated wasteland that is the Fallout TV series! In this episode (with spoilers!), we'll be cracking open our Nuka-Colas and discussing the recent adaptation of the beloved video game franchise. We'll explore faithfulness to the source material, the show's lore and characters, and the themes of survival and hope in a post-apocalyptic world. Whether you're a seasoned Vault Dweller or a curious wastelander, this episode is packed with rad discussion and analysis. So, grab your Pip-Boy, tune in, and prepare to explore the Fallout TV show with The Nomads of Fantasy! For more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.com Social links Discord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discord Twitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasy Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" is a captivating addition to the legendary Star Wars saga, offering fans a thrilling and gritty tale set in a galaxy far, far away. The film takes place in the time period just before the events of the original 1977 Star Wars film, "A New Hope." It follows a diverse group of rebels who unite for a daring mission to steal the plans for the Empire's devastating superweapon, the Death Star. Led by the determined Jyn Erso, portrayed brilliantly by Felicity Jones, this ragtag team of misfits and warriors must navigate treacherous landscapes, confront formidable enemies, and make unimaginable sacrifices in their quest to save the galaxy from tyranny. What sets "Rogue One" apart from other Star Wars films is its focus on the ordinary people who become unlikely heroes in the face of overwhelming adversity. Unlike the Skywalker saga, which centers on the Force-sensitive members of the Jedi and Sith, "Rogue One" explores the bravery and resilience of individuals without supernatural abilities. Each member of the Rogue One team brings their unique skills and experiences to the mission, showcasing the power of teamwork and solidarity in the fight against oppression. From the stoic Rebel intelligence officer Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, to the reprogrammed Imperial droid K-2SO, voiced by Alan Tudyk, the characters in "Rogue One" are compelling and relatable, making their journey all the more compelling. At its core, "Rogue One" is a story about hope, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of rebellion. The film captures the gritty reality of war while also celebrating the indomitable human spirit. From breathtaking action sequences to poignant character moments, "Rogue One" delivers an unforgettable cinematic experience that enriches the Star Wars mythos and reminds audiences of the power of ordinary individuals to change the course of history.

"The Fellowship of the Ring" is a fantasy adventure film directed by Peter Jackson, released in 2001. It is the first installment in the "The Lord of the Rings" film trilogy, based on the novel of the same name by J.R.R. Tolkien. The film follows the journey of a young hobbit named Frodo Baggins, who is tasked with destroying a powerful ring that could bring about the end of the world if it falls into the hands of the dark lord Sauron. Frodo is accompanied by a fellowship of various characters from different races in Middle-earth, including humans, elves, dwarves, and other hobbits. The fellowship's quest takes them across the vast and dangerous landscapes of Middle-earth as they face numerous challenges and adversaries in their quest to destroy the ring and defeat Sauron. Director Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novel is widely praised for its faithfulness to the source material while also making necessary changes for the cinematic medium. The film showcases stunning visual effects, breathtaking landscapes, and meticulously crafted sets, bringing the world of Middle-earth to life in a way that captivates audiences. It tells an epic and engaging story of friendship, heroism, and the struggle between good and evil, resonating with audiences of all ages. "The Fellowship of the Ring" features well-developed characters with depth and complexity, allowing viewers to become emotionally invested in their journeys and relationships. Boasting a talented ensemble cast, the film delivers compelling performances that bring authenticity and depth to the characters. Howard Shore's iconic musical score enhances the film's emotional impact, adding depth and grandeur to key moments. With Peter Jackson's direction and Andrew Lesnie's cinematography, the film creates a visually stunning and immersive experience through dynamic camera work and beautiful compositions. Its significant cultural impact has influenced subsequent fantasy films and popular culture as a whole. As the first installment of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, "The Fellowship of the Ring" set the standard for epic fantasy filmmaking and remains a beloved classic in cinematic history, paving the way for the subsequent films and renewing interest in Tolkien's works.

Hello Nomads and welcome to our monthly catch-up episode for March of 2024! Pull up a gaming chair, grab a Dew, gather around the warm glow of your screen and listen to Brandon, Eric and Dave talk about all of the video games, tv shows, movies, books and board games that they have been checking out this month. We hope you enjoy and as always, safe travels Nomads!Here is the full list of the things we talked about this month:Dragon Ball Z: Kingdom 2 CrownsKingdom EightiesGhostbusters Frozen EmpirePokemonCrimson PeakWarhammer: Age of Sigmar Realms of RuinPunch ClubQuiet on SetBalatroFor more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.comSocial linksDiscord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discordTwitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasyTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

"Looper" is a science fiction action film directed by Rian Johnson, released in 2012. The movie is set in a dystopian future where time travel exists but is illegal and only available on the black market. In this future, criminal organizations use time travel to send targets they want eliminated back in time to be killed by assassins known as "loopers." The protagonist, Joe, portrayed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, is one such looper. He works for a crime syndicate in the year 2044 and kills targets sent back from the year 2074. However, complications arise when Joe's future self, played by Bruce Willis, is sent back for him to kill, a process known as "closing the loop." As the story unfolds, older Joe reveals that he has come back in time to prevent a future disaster orchestrated by a mysterious figure known as the Rainmaker. Young Joe finds himself entangled in a complex web of events as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and attempts to alter the future. "Looper" explores themes of destiny, identity, and the consequences of one's choices. It combines elements of science fiction, action, and drama to create a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.

Hello nomads and let's talk about some obscure characters from the world of Star Wars. We're going deep, but we found some funny, some tragic tales to characters who either say one word in an entire film, or literally have just two seconds of screen time. We sourced a ton of information from our friends over at Wookiepedia.org. "Wookieepedia" is a fan-created online encyclopedia focused on the Star Wars franchise. It is a comprehensive resource that provides information on various aspects of the Star Wars universe, including characters, planets, species, technology, events, and much more. The name "Wookieepedia" is a play on the word "Wookiee," referring to the iconic species from Star Wars, and "Wikipedia," the well-known online encyclopedia. They operates similarly to Wikipedia in that it is a collaborative project where users can contribute and edit articles. It was established in 2005 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most popular sources of Star Wars information on the internet. The site is maintained by a dedicated community of volunteers who work to ensure the accuracy and completeness of its content. Stick around until the end of the episode for a round of Star Wars 20 Questions! Safe travels nomads and may the force be with you. For more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.com Social links Discord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discord Twitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasy Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

Hello Nomads and welcome to our monthly catch-up episode for February of 2024! Pull up a gaming chair, grab a Dew, gather around the warm glow of your screen and listen to Brandon, Eric and Dave talk about all of the video games, tv shows, movies, books and board games that they have been checking out this month. We hope you enjoy and as always, safe travels Nomads! Here is the full list of the things we talked about this month: Kena: Bridge of Spirits Balatro Twin Peaks Close to the Sun X-Cloud Streaming Yakuza: Enter the Dragon Call of Duty: Cold War Wonka Intellivision Amico - Astrosmash Dead Island 2 Bluey: The Video Game Minecraft Pokemon: Indigo League For more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.com Social links Discord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discord Twitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasy Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

"The Green Knight" is a 2021 fantasy film directed by David Lowery, based on the Arthurian legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The story follows Gawain, the nephew of King Arthur, who accepts a challenge from the mysterious Green Knight. The Green Knight challenges any knight to strike him with his axe, under the condition that the knight must seek him out in one year's time to receive a blow in return. Gawain, eager for adventure and recognition, accepts the challenge and beheads the Green Knight. However, to honor his word and fulfill his part of the bargain, Gawain embarks on a journey to find the Green Knight and receive his own blow, facing various trials and temptations along the way that test his courage, honor, and faith. The film explores themes of honor, chivalry, mortality, and the nature of heroism, presenting a visually stunning and thought-provoking interpretation of the classic Arthurian tale. For more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.com Social links Discord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discord Twitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasy Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

Oldboy" is a South Korean psychological thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook, released in 2003. The story follows Oh Dae-su, a man who is mysteriously imprisoned in a cell for 15 years without knowing the identity of his captor or the reasons for his captivity. During his time in confinement, he is subjected to psychological torture and is left with no explanation for his imprisonment. Upon his sudden release, Oh Dae-su embarks on a quest for vengeance against those responsible for his captivity and seeks to unravel the truth behind his ordeal. Along the way, he encounters various obstacles, including a young woman named Mi-do, who becomes entangled in his journey. As the narrative unfolds, the film explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions. It delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, and the enduring effects of trauma. "Oldboy" is renowned for its intricate plot twists, stylized cinematography, and intense performances, cementing its status as a cult classic in world cinema. Stick around for a round of trivia at the end of the show! Safe travels, nomads. For more, visit https://thenomadsoffantasy.com Social links Discord: https://thenomadsoffantasy.com/discord Twitter: https://twitter.com/NomadsofFantasy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomadsoffantasy Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/nomadsoffantasy

Hello Nomads and welcome to our monthly catch-up episode for the beginning of 2024! Pull up a beanbag chair, grab a drink, gather around the warm glow of your screen and listen to Brandon, Eric and Dave talk about all of the video games, tv shows, movies, books and board games! (Oh My!) that they have been checking out this month. We hope you enjoy and as always, safe travels Nomads!Here is the full list of the things we talked about this month:PalWorldDunePrince of Persia: The Lost CrownNemesis (Board Game)Talk to MeTekken 8 DemoDon't Worry DarlingInto The BreachSquid GameThe SilmarillionAsteroid CityBetter Call Saul

"Apocalypto" is a historical action-adventure film directed by Mel Gibson and released in 2006. The movie is set in the pre-Columbian era, specifically in the declining Mayan civilization. The story revolves around a young hunter named Jaguar Paw, played by Rudy Youngblood, who lives with his tribe in the Mesoamerican jungle. The film begins with peaceful scenes of the tribe's daily life but takes a dark turn when they are attacked by a group of raiders from a more advanced and aggressive Mayan city. The raiders capture many members of the tribe, including Jaguar Paw, and take them to the city, where they face the threat of being sacrificed for religious rituals. The central plot follows Jaguar Paw's attempt to escape captivity and return to his pregnant wife and young son. As he navigates the dangerous and unforgiving jungle and encounters various obstacles, the film explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the clash between civilizations. "Apocalypto" is known for its intense and visceral action sequences, as well as its depiction of the brutality and complexity of the Mayan civilization during its decline. The film received praise for its cinematography, direction, and the performances of the cast, although it also faced criticism for its graphic violence. Mel Gibson co-wrote the screenplay with Farhad Safinia.