Not a Bomb

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Not A Bomb Podcast explores the cinematic failures of the box office as well as movies that critics, universally, didn‘t love. Each week, Brad and Troy discuss the history of a disastrous movie release and debate whether the film deserves a second chance. From misunderstood classics like Heaven’s Gate to cheesy flicks like Samurai Cop, you’ll find a wide variety of films that get a little extra attention and a possible second chance at success.

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TV & FilmTV & Film

Episodes

Episode 206 - Get Carter (2000)
May 22 2024
Episode 206 - Get Carter (2000)
Welcome back to Not A Bomb! This is the podcast where we dive into some of cinema's biggest box office failures and explore whether they deserve a second chance. “Re-May-ke” month is still rolling on as we peel back the layers on the darkly entertaining and tightly wound revenge story from 2000, Get Carter. Based on the novel “Jack Returns Home,” Get Carter failed to reach the heights of the 1971 version and only made back roughly 33% of its production budget. Sylvester Stallone was definitely trying to do something new with his career in 2000, but the film didn’t resonate with critics or the general audience. Does this 2nd remake of the famous British crime film deserve all the hate? Grab your trench coat, put on your best brooding face, and join us as we dissect this gritty gem on Not a Bomb!Get Carter is directed by Stephen Kay and stars Sylvester Stallone, Miranda Richardson, Rachael Leigh Cook, Alan Cumming, Mickey Rourke, and Michael Caine.This week, we can be found guesting all over the internet. Be sure to check us out over on YouTube -  Crying Freeman on Episode 35 of And Now for Something A Little Bit Different. Also, check out Episode 82 of Moviestruck, where we join Sophia to discuss M. Night Shyamalan's The Happening. Should you wish to provide feedback or suggest a cinematic flop for discussion, please reach out to us at NotABombPod@gmail.com or through our contact page. If you enjoy our content, consider leaving a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy
Episode 203 - Monkeybone (with Error 4444)
May 1 2024
Episode 203 - Monkeybone (with Error 4444)
Welcome to your favorite movie podcast, Not a Bomb!! This is the podcast where we revisit some of the biggest box office failures in cinema history and explore whether they deserve a second chance.We’ve just peeled the final banana of Ape-Ril. This episode is a barrel full of monkeys, and a barrel full of puns. Joining us are Samuel and Logan from Error 4444, our favorite go-to Blu-ray label for cult Asian cinema. We'll dive into the bizarre 2001 film, “Monkeybone,” and learn more about Error 4444's mission to preserve and present obscure Asian gems on Blu-ray. Samuel and Logan are curating an exciting collection of wild Asian films with new restorations and limited edition packaging, making them a must-own for cinephiles.“Monkeybone” is an interesting experiement that blends live-action with stop-motion animation. Join us as we explore the chaotic dreamscape created by director Henry Selick and the comedic genius (?) of Brendan Fraser. We dissect the film’s unique blend of humor and horror as well as the unforgettable characters that inhabit Downtown. Tune in to discover if “Monkeybone” is an underrated gem or a bomb that deserves a second chance.Monkeybone is directed by Henry Selick and stars Brendan Fraser, Bridget Fonda, Chris Kattan, Giancarlo Esposito, Rose McGowan, and Whoopi Goldberg.Now head over to Error 4444 and preorder some of the craziest films you will ever see!If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Error 4444
Not A Bomb Special Edition: Blockers (with Michele Meek)
Apr 28 2024
Not A Bomb Special Edition: Blockers (with Michele Meek)
Join us for an exceptional bonus episode of Not A Bomb Podcast! We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back the immensely talented writer, filmmaker, and professor Michele Meek to our show. Michele’s vast expertise in the world of teen sex comedies elevates our podcast with a trove of insights making this episode truly extraordinary. On this bonus episode, we dive into the 2018 sex comedy - Blockers. The film follows a trio of parents who are trying to stop their respective daughters from losing their virginity on prom night. Or, in more modern terms, they are c*ckblocking their own kids. For a successful comedy with an amazing supporting cast, most people have forgotten Blockers. Should you revisit this moderate box office hit? Was the film unique enough to set itself apart from the averge teen sex comedy? Download the episode and find out!Please check out Michele Meek’s website for all of her details and links to her work - About Michele Meek - Michele Meek, Ph.D. Also, pick up a copy of Michele Meek’s newest book, “Consent Culture and Teen Films: Adolescent Sexuality in US Movies.” Michele Meek photos are provided courtesy of Stephanie Ewens Photography.If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Michele MeekOn this bonus episode, the gang dives into 2018 sex comedy - Blockers. Following a trio of parents who are trying to stop their respective daughters from losing their virginity on prom night. Or to put it simply, they are c*ckblocking their own kids. For a successful comedy with an amazing supporting cast, it seems as if Blockers has been forgotten. Please check out Michele Meek’s website for all of her details and links to her work - About Michele Meek - Michele Meek, Ph.D. Also, pick up a copy of Michele Meek’s newest book, “Consent Culture and Teen Films: Adolescent Sexuality in US Movies.” Michele Meek photos are provided courtesy of Stephanie Ewens Photography.If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Michele Meek
Episode 200 - Blade Runner & Blade Runner 2049
Apr 12 2024
Episode 200 - Blade Runner & Blade Runner 2049
Welcome to your favorite movie podcast, Not a Bomb!! This is the podcast where we revisit some of the biggest box office failures in cinema history and explore whether they deserve a second chance. We are incredibly grateful for all the support we've received over the last 200 episodes and we look forward to many more. For this special occasion, we decided to discuss the seminal science fiction film, Blade Runner. Despite its status as a thought-provoking and visually stunning work of art, the initial release of the film was a commercial flop. We also talk about the 2017 sequel, Blade Runner 2049, which strikes a perfect balance between building on the legacy of the original and standing on its own as a great film. Unfortunately, the sequel also bombed and failed to make a profit for the studios. To delve into these two iconic science-fiction works, we welcomed a special guest, Cam, offering a Gen Z perspective. This episode wouldn't have been the same without Cam, and we're excited to have him share his insights on this captivating futuristic saga.Blade Runner is directed by Ridley Scott and stars Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos, M. Emmet Walsh, Daryl Hannah, William Sanderson, Brion James and Joe Turkel.Blader Runner 2049 is directed by Denis Villeneuve and stars Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford, Ana de Armas, Sylvia Hoeks, Robin Wright, Mackenzie Davis, Caral Juri, Lennie James, Dave Bautista and Jared LetoIf you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Cam
Episode 198 - Phantoms
Mar 27 2024
Episode 198 - Phantoms
Welcome back to your favorite podcast about some of the biggest bombs in film history! In this week’s episode, we dive into the eerie world of “Phantoms”, a supernatural horror-thriller released in 1998. To assist in this underseen classic (?), the guys are happy to welcome Sammy from the GGTMC back to the show!When a small town in Colorado is mysteriously wiped out, leaving only a few survivors, they discover an ancient evil lurking beneath the surface. As they unravel the chilling secrets, they realize they are facing a force beyond their comprehension. Despite its intriguing premise and star-studded cast, “Phantoms” failed to resonate with audiences. Listen as we discuss whether it deserved its fate at the box office. More importantly, we spitball ideas for the buddy-cop film, “Skeet Heat,” starring Skeet Ulrich and Jamie Kennedy. Also, it that our own Brad Anderson in this film or Ben Affleck? It’s impossible to tell!Is “Phantoms” a bomb or a hidden gem? Download the episode to find out!Phantoms is directed by Joe Chappelle and stars Ben Affleck, Peter O’Toole, Rose McGowan, and Liev Schreiber.If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast or wherever you listen to the show.If you want to hear more of Sammy, make sure you subscribe to the Gentlemen’s Guide to Midnite Cinema and be sure to leave them a review. Cast: Brad, Troy, Sammy
Episode 196 - Runaway Train (with Austin Trunick)
Mar 14 2024
Episode 196 - Runaway Train (with Austin Trunick)
Welcome back to another exciting episode of Not A Bomb Podcast. This is the podcast where we re-examine some of the biggest bombs in cinematic history. Oh man, do we have a treat for you! This week’s show is all about Cannon films, and you can’t talk about Cannon without Austin Trunick. Austin is the author of two excellent retrospective books - The Cannon Film Guide: Vol 1 and 2. If you have ever wanted to know something about Cannon Films, Austin is the guy to talk to. While Cannon created a ton of cult favorites, they also dipped their toes into some prestige storytelling. We decided to go a bit more “highbrow” with this week’s choice and are discussing 1985’s Runaway Train. This Academy Award nominated film started as a screenplay by legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa and was passed around by several Hollywood executives. The story of two escaped convicts who become stuck on a…you guessed it…runaway train finally found a home with Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus. Austin brings so much insight to this film and we are super excited he joined us for this week’s conversation. So, sit back, relax, and learn all about one of the best stories to come out of The Cannon Group, Runaway Train. Runway Train is directed by Andrei Konchalovsky and stars John Voight, Eric Roberts, Rebecca De Mornay, Kyle T. Heffner, John P. Ryan, T.K. Carter, and Kenneth McMillian.Be sure to check out The Cannon Film Guide: Vol 1 and Vol 2, or please support your local bookstore and ask them to order it for you. If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast. For invite to the Not A Bomb Discord, hit us up here. Cast: Brad, Troy, Austin Trunick
Episode 195 - Dark Phoenix
Mar 6 2024
Episode 195 - Dark Phoenix
Welcome back to your favorite podcast about some of the biggest bombs in film history. In this week’s episode, we discuss one of the biggest cinematic flops for 20th Century Fox and Marvel Entertainment, 2019’s Dark Phoenix. This is the fourth installment of the prequel films and the 12th installment in the X-Men film series. Dark Phoenix had all the trademarks of a bomb such as numerous re-shoots based on test screenings, studio mergers, uninterested actors, a first-time director, shifting management, and poor marketing. Do all these factors make Dark Phoenix a bomb? Were audiences, critics, and comic book fans too harsh on this version of “The Dark Phoenix Saga?” Download the episode and hear our thoughts!Special thanks to our good friend Jose from Watch / Skip+ for stopping by and helping out with the discussion!Dark Phoenix is directed by Simon Kinberg and stars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Sophie Turner, Tye Sheridan, Alexandra Shipp, and Jessica ChastainMake sure to check out Jose on Watch/Skip+ and make sure to drop them a review!Also, James, friend of the show, lost his beloved dog - Penny a little bit ago. If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe, please do so and help out a great guy during this most difficult time. If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Jose
Episode 194 - Dragonslayer (with Rolling with Difficulty)
Feb 28 2024
Episode 194 - Dragonslayer (with Rolling with Difficulty)
In this thrilling episode of "Not a Bomb," Brad and Troy delve deep into the caverns of 1981's fantasy epic, Dragonslayer. Joining our seasoned hosts are the masters of the dice, the wizards of storytelling, and the guardians of epic sagas - the illustrious crew from the "Rolling with Difficult” podcast.  Together, they'll navigate through the labyrinthine depths of this box office bomb wielding their expertise in all things Dungeons & Dragons as well as “sword and sorcery” films of yore.As the podcast unfolds, expect a torrent of references and callbacks to iconic D&D lore, with the hosts and guests weaving spells of nostalgia and insight. From discussions on the film's portrayal of magic to dissecting the Oscar nominated special effects, each moment is infused with the spirit of adventure and camaraderie reminiscent of a late-night campaign.So, prepare your potions, sharpen your wits, and ready your d20s as "Not a Bomb" joins forces with "Rolling with Difficulty" to slay the dragons of cinematic critique and emerge victorious in their quest for legendary entertainment. Tune in and embark on a journey worthy of bardic tales and epic ballads.Dragonslayer is directed by Matthew Robbins and stars Peter MacNicol, Caitlin Clarke, Ralph Richardson, John Hallam, Peter Eyre, Sydney Bromley, Chloe Salaman, and Ian McDiarmid. If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast. Cast: Brad, Troy, Rolling with Difficulty
Episode 192 - Clue (with Mike McGranaghan)
Feb 14 2024
Episode 192 - Clue (with Mike McGranaghan)
Welcome back to your favorite podcast about some of the biggest cinema bombs of all time. In this episode, we welcome back to the show Mike McGranaghan, film critic at The Aisle Seat. Put on your detective hats and rush to the crime scene. What was the crime? In this case, an experimental film from 1985, Clue. Based on the popular board game, Clue gathers all our favorite playing pieces into a mansion and, of course, a murder occurs. The filmmakers pulled a “William Castle” on the audience and came up with an interesting gimmick, three different endings to a movie (and each ending was shown in a different location). Join us as we try to figure out who did it, with what, and in what room. Oh…and we do spend a little time discussing some of the greatest film gimmicks in cinematic history. Clue is directed by Jonathan Lynn and stars Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, Christopher Lloyd, Michael McKean, Martin Mull, and Lesley Ann Warren. Mike McGranaghan, is a member of the Critics Choice Association and the Online Film Critics Society. His reviews appear weekly on the radio stations of Sunbury Broadcasting Corporation. His work also regularly appears at Ranker. He is the author of two books, Straight-Up Blatant and My Year of Chevy: One Guy's Journey Through the Filmography of Chevy Chase. You can also find all of Mike’s reviews over at www.aisleseat.com.If you want to leave feedback or suggest a movie bomb, please drop us a line at NotABombPod@gmail.com or Contact Us - here. Also, if you like what you hear, leave a review on Apple Podcast.Cast: Brad, Troy, Mike McGranaghan