Reading Between the Reels: Film analysis with snark and heart

RBR #117: "Top 5 Remakes”

In this episode, we reveal our Top 5 Movie Remakes that lived up to or even surpassed the originals. From horror reimaginings to bold reinterpretations of beloved stories, we discuss what makes these films truly great.

RBR #116: "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" (MARVEL before the MCU)

Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer is a visually engaging but ultimately underwhelming sequel that struggles to elevate its superhero storytelling. As the 16th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series, the film introduces the enigmatic Silver Surfer and features impressive CGI, but is bogged down by a weak script, underdeveloped characters, and a lackluster portrayal of Galactus.

RBR #115: "Spider-Man 3" (MARVEL before the MCU)

Spider-Man 3 is the ambitious but overstuffed conclusion to Sam Raimi’s trilogy that struggles under the weight of too many villains and subplots. As the 15th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series, the film was a box office success but ultimately fell short of the high creative bar set by Spider-Man 2.

RBR #114: "Ghost Rider" (MARVEL before the MCU)

Ghost Rider is an adaptation of the Marvel comic featuring Nicolas Cage as Johnny Blaze, a stunt motorcyclist who makes a deal with the devil and transforms into a fiery-skulled antihero. As the 14th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series, the film offers some entertaining action sequences and striking CGI effects. 

RBR #113: "X-Men: The Last Stand" (MARVEL before the MCU)

X-Men: The Last Stand is the third installment in the X-Men film series. The 13th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series revolves around the discovery of a "cure" for mutation, while simultaneously exploring the rise of the Phoenix, an uncontrollable and immensely powerful alternate persona of Jean Grey.

#StarWarsPodcastDay Bonus Episode: “Revenge of the Sith" (Re-Release)

For this year’s “Star Wars Podcast Day," we go back into the archives for one of our first deconstructions and revisit an early episode of “Coruscant Community College” in which we break down Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith.

RBR #112: "Fantastic Four" (MARVEL before the MCU)

Fantastic Four (2005) is a superhero film based on the Marvel Comics team of the same name. The 12th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series blends action, humor, and the challenges of newfound abilities while exploring themes of teamwork and identity.

RBR #111: "Elektra" (MARVEL before the MCU)

Elektra (2005) is a spin-off of Daredevil (2003) that follows the journey of the eponymous assassin played by Jennifer Garner. The 11th entry in our “Marvel before the MCU” series delves into themes of redemption, family, and self-discovery, as Elektra grapples with her role as both a protector and a killer.