X-Men Origins: Wolverine is one of the worst superhero movies to come out of the big comic book cinema boom. It ignores basically everything established in the main line of X-Men films to craft a laborious tale of the early days of Logan's heroism. Throwing in heaps and loads of random mutants, X-Men Origins: Wolverine has zero interest in crafting an adequate narrative for its titular hero. Instead, it seems to hope that audiences will just ignore how nonsensical it is because they'll be clamoring for all the future cinematic avenues it opens up. Spoiler: They didn't. Why? Well, this was an absurd and stupid way to approach a character's origin. Moreover, it also butchered several beloved characters in the process—particularly Deadpool, but also Gambit. Hence why critics and audiences hated it. X-Men Origins: Wolverine sits at 38% on Rotten Tomatoes with 259 reviews. It deserved worse. If you love Wolverine, just watch this movie's sequels—if you can even call them that—The Wolverine and the cinema masterclass that is Logan. Now, sit back, dull your senses with a Puppers Beer, and go on a quest for revenge with your sweet new claws! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Capt. Cash are throwing down with Weapon XI back to back to back! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Witness the Origin! (00:00)Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast harvests mutant genes for the Dead ... Pool, and then we discuss why X-Men Origins: Wolverine went off the rails. (36:10)The "Weapon X" Trivia Challenge – Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:00:34)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We celebrate our 200th episode in style by careening down an exploding dam with Fast X! (1:13:02) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the original script and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Rocky V is a textbook example of a franchise hanging on too long. Without any more mountains to climb, Stallone took the titular character back to his roots. Unfortunately, that journey isn't a very compelling one. Rocky V has a lot to say—spotlighting the transactional nature of sports media, the devastating effects of head trauma, and how sports places profits over people; but none of it, sadly, is done particularly well. Instead, we get a muddled movie overstuffed with subplots that fails to ever find a clear focus. Lost in all of it is the central narrative of Rocky sacrificing valuable time with his actual son to train Tommy Gunn. Gunn, of course, is not who Rocky believes him to be. He's petulant, ungrateful, and willing to cast Rocky aside with just the slightest hint of greener pastures. Because so much of this is jumbled in other nonsense and weighed down by a sub-par script, we hardly care when it comes time for them to fight. Critics agreed. They threw haymakers at Rocky V, knocking it out with a paltry 31% on Rotten Tomatoes with 39 reviews. It even received seven Razzie nominations. And if Stallone thought the fans would never turn their backs on the beloved character, well, yo, Adrian, this movie did it. Now, sit back, concuss yourself with a few Arrogant Bastard Ales from Stone Brewing, and slip the jab! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Bling Blake, and the J-Man from the Double Turn Podcast are suffering from far too many blows to the head! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Go for it! (00:00)Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast rings the bell, and then we discuss the absurdity of Rocky V. (58:05)The "You Know, I’m Not as Stupid as Everyone Thinks" Trivia Challenge – Bling Blake challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:41:03)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We finish off "Hops and Franchise Entry Flops," with the cinema's greatest showman, Hugh Jackman, in X-Men Origins: Wolverine! (1:51:53) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the highs and lows of Tommy Morrison's career and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull was the legendary character's big return to cinemas after 1989's The Last Crusade. Suffice to say, expectations were high for the famed archeologist's latest globe-trotting exploit. And, for fans of the character, Kingdom of the Crystal Skull did feature a lot of what made the original trilogy so great. What audiences seemed to be torn on, however, was its over reliance on CGI, goofy beats, and science fiction-based premise. That didn't stop them from seeing it, though. On a budget of $185 million, Kingdom of the Crystal Skull grossed nearly $791 million worldwide. The detractors disenchantment with it did not effect the critics either. With 308 reviews, it sits at 77% on Rotten Tomatoes. This pod, like the public at large, was split on it. Some of us loved it and embraced it for what it was, while others couldn't get past its more pulpy moments. That seems to be the plight of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Some will hate it for "ruining their childhood;" others will say it's just not up to the standards of the series; and some will just enjoy seeing another adventure with their favorite ass-kicking PhD. We suggest you do the latter. Now, sit back, embolden your mind with an Indy themed Crystal Head Vodka Martini, and watch out for those darts! They're poison! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake are seeing who can get launched the farthest by a nuclear blast in a lead-lined fridge! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – If adventure has a name... it must be Indiana Jones. The hero is back! (00:00)Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast channels Al Snow by carrying around an alien head, and then we discuss what worked/didn't work about Indy's big return. (32:12)The "Space between Spaces" Trivia Challenge – I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (1:03:09)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Franchise Entry Flops," with the black sheep of the Rocky Balboa saga, Rocky V! (1:10:12) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the actual crystal skulls and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Robocop 3 is the embodiment of when a franchise has creatively exhausted itself. It feels and looks cheap; has nothing new to say; and tones down the series' signature violence to milk the most out of a dwindling audience. For fans of the series, its existence must be heartbreaking. Robocop 3's ineptitude is on par with other disastrous sequels of the era, like Superman IV. That is really all you can say about it. It recycles plot points from the first film and shamelessly calls back to things you loved from that one, as well. Its only novel introduction is a robot ninja assassin, whose fights with Robocop are so painfully slow, you will be tempted to watch them in 2x speed. Thus, Robocop 3's 6% on Rotten Tomatoes should not come as a shock; but you should be dumbstruck to discover that it out-grossed its predecessor. Even with the PG-13 rating, that is astounding. Poor Murphy! Now, sit back, optimize your prime directives with a Screamsickle from Six Point Brewery, and close your eyes during the jetpack scene! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake are clearing the streets of Old Detroit with McDaggett's goon squad! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Chaos... Corruption... Civil War... He's back to lay down the law! (00:00)Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast survives an Inferno Match with the Splatter Punks, and then we ask: What the hell happened to this series? (39:55)The "Loyal as a Puppy" Trivia Challenge – Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:07:30)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Franchise Entry Flops," with the criminally underrated Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull! (1:16:58) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the Canadian TV show and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Alien Covenant was sort of damned from the beginning. As a direct sequel to the divisive Prometheus, it was continuing a story half the audience had no desire to see. Moreover, they probably also had zero interest in learning where the Xenomorphs came from. Those are significant hurdles when that is exactly what the movie is about. Sorry, Sir Ridley. Thus, like its predecessor, your mileage on Alien Covenant will vary. In the case of this podcast, it is near polar opposites. Alien Covenant may center on a ship of colonists on course for a new home, but it is David's story. Yes, that David. The android we last saw as a head without a body. It is his continued tinkering with the black goo that finally creates the Xenomorph as we first saw it. Hence, why this movie saw Prometheus' divisiveness and said, "Hold my beer." Did we actually need an origin story for the slimy, feral aliens who thrive on violence and mayhem? Well, we got one. And to that question, it seems the general audience felt they did not. On a budget estimated to be just over $100 million, Alien Covenant grossed just $240.9 million worldwide. Now, sit back, modify your DNA with a Cosmic Mutant IPA from Oskar Blues, and keep your nose out of that egg! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are inhaling alien spores to see who experiences the most gnarly death! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – The path to paradise begins in hell! (00:00)Lingering Questions – With Ridley Scott's conclusion shelved, we debate whether he should've gotten to finish it. (47:56)The "Paradise Lost" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast gets double-crossed by the David/Walter switch, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (1:17:08)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We kick off "Hops and Franchise Entry Flops," with the painfully bad Robocop 3! (1:26:58) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the prologues/epilogues and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Prometheus was Ridley Scott's triumphant return to the franchise he helped launch with 1979's Alien. But unlike the myriad of sequels that followed the groundbreaking original, Prometheus forges new ground. Centering on the Engineers, it chronicles the creation of human life and the species' subsequent quest for answers that follows. It is during that quest the crew of the Prometheus discovers that those that gave them life had also engineered something far darker. Thus, for all its philosophizing, Prometheus is indeed a prequel to Alien. Whether the answers it alludes to are satisfying are up to the individual viewer. Our pod, as a microcosm, was split on that determination. One thing we did all agree on, though, is the brilliance with which Prometheus is crafted. From the sets, to the costume design, to the practical creature effects, Scott and his production team spared no detail in building toward the mystery of the "space jockey" and its ship. And despite not being as beloved as Alien or Aliens, Prometheus was met with generally positive reactions upon its release. With 313 reviews, it sits at 73% on Rotten Tomatoes. It is also the highest grossing entry in the franchise with $403.4 million worldwide. Capt. Cash may not approve, but the Deacon certainly does. Now, sit back, c-section shotgun a can of Celestial Paradox from Toppling Goliath, and don't touch that vagina-penis snake! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, Mayor McCheese, and Bling Blake are searching the vastness of space for the meaning of our existence! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – The search for our beginning could lead to our end! (00:00)Lingering Questions – Well, here we are again. Should this have killed the Alien franchise? (1:14:59)The "Big Things..." Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast spits the black goo in their opponent's face, and then Mayor McCheese challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:39:37)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Xenomorph Flops," with another film Capt. Cash loves, Alien Covenant! (1:49:15) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the scenes that shouldn't have been cut and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Alien Resurrection was a bizarre attempt to reinvigorate the Alien franchise after the divisiveness of its predecessor. Written by Joss Whedon, it twists itself into narrative knots to revive the series' long-standing heroin Ellen Ripley. Honestly, it suffers for it. This variation of Ripley is a badass, as well, but she's also weird and barely resembles the character she's embodying. Combined with a sub-par script that is packed full of terrible one-liners, nonsensical twists, and stock characters, Alien Resurrection fails just as miserably as Alien 3 in getting the series back on track. It's a shame because the film is casted well. It also boasts decent effects, gnarly kills, and even showcases a few things the Xenomorphs have never done before. The atmosphere is just lacking. There is a dearth of tension. Perhaps, that is a sign that the franchise just lingered too long. There was nothing left for Alien Resurrection to add. Hence, why it suffered the worst domestic box office of the series ($47.8 million). Critics, too, were lukewarm on it. It sits at 53% on Rotten Tomatoes with 85 reviews. Some things are just better left dead. Now, sit back, illegally import a Death by Design from Holy City Brewing, and watch out for Ripley's elbows in the paint! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are attempting to clone Sigourney Weaver, so every generation can treasure her onscreen magic for eternity! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Hell gives birth! (00:00)Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast clones "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, and then ... Forget Alien 3, should this have killed the Alien franchise? (49:34)The "Kill Me" Trivia Challenge – Capt. Cash challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:18:29)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Xenomorph Flops," with Capt. Cash's favorite movie (and the one he finds to be the most scientifically sound), Prometheus! (1:29:17) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the director's disdain for popcorn fare and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Alien 3 is a massive disappointment. After the insane action masterpiece that was Aliens, expectations were high for how Ellen Ripley's story would progress. Sadly, Fox, the studio behind the beloved franchise, didn't seem to have any ideas. Multiple scripts came and went, as did directors. Ultimately, the project fell to David Fincher. If you told that to someone now, the excitement would be palpable. But this was 1992, and Fincher had yet to direct a movie. Renowned for his music video work, the first-time director had to fight tooth and nail with the studio throughout the shoot. With a script that was being rewritten on the fly, much of the problems that plague Alien 3 cannot be attributed to him. This is a cautionary tale about wanting to exploit a valuable IP without taking the time to make sure the ideas are worth exploring. Literally, Alien 3 is just Alien in a different setting with a sterile cast of characters who all look and behave the same. That is the opposite of what fans expected after James Cameron blew their Xenomorph-loving minds with Aliens. Hence, why Alien 3 suffered with critics and fell to its death at the box office. On a production budget more than triple its predecessor, it grossed $30 million less domestically. Those kind of numbers are liable to make something burst out of a greedy executive's chest. Now, sit back, kill your mouth lice with a Cosmic Crown from Cigar City Brewing, and reanimate Bishop for some key exposition! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are setting Xenomorph traps in the dank bowels of Fiorina 161! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Start running...again. The bitch is back! (00:00)Lingering Questions – Should this have killed the Alien franchise? (52:48)The "This Thing is Really Pissed Off" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast learns about the original "Hell in a Cell," and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:29:13)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Xenomorph Flops," with the odd Alien Resurrection! (1:38:57) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the Assembly Cut's superiority and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Damned River chronicles a group of friends' harrowing trip down the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. Their guide, Ray, an unhinged madman and former mercenary (?), is at odds with other local rafters. Thus, as the begin their trek, Ray slowly descends into madness.  The premise isn't exactly novel, but it isn't bad either. The issues with Damned River all come down to execution. The acting is over the top and hammy, the script is all wet, and the action is as sub-par as one would expect from a film only available on YouTube as a poor transfer from an obscure TV series called "Movies for Men." That said, there is some fun to be had with Damned River—in the, this should have appeared on Mystery Science Theater 3000 sort of way.  Now, sit back, ride the wave train with a Boat Show IPA from Yellow Springs Brewery, and stay out of Ray's waters! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are braving some sick class five rapids with a homicidal maniac as our guide! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – A dream vacation... Becomes a grim Nightmare! (00:00)Lingering Questions – Ray is a lunatic, but an entertaining one. What was over favorite "River Rat" Ray moment? (40:28)The "Slambezi" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast breaks an oar over someone's head, and then Bling Blake challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:07:50)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We kick off "Hops and Xenomorph Flops," with David Fincher's Alien 3! (1:22:39) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the raging rapids of the Zambezi and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Drop Zone, like a lot of mediocre 90s action movies, puts a spin on a successful formula established in a much better film. In this case, it's 1991's Point Break. Substituting skydiving for surfing and Wesley Snipes for Keanu Reeves, Drop Zone attempts to be edgy and hip like its inspiration, but mostly free falls in trying. That's not to say that there aren't elements of it to be appreciated. The skydiving scenes are excellently shot, aside from the awkward green screen closeups; and the hammy turn of Gary Busey as the villainous Ty Moncrief is vintage 90s bad guy fare. But, as mentioned, Drop Zone isn't exactly genre defining. Hence why it received poor reviews (39% on Rotten Tomatoes with 23 of them) and struggled at the box office (grossing just $62 million worldwide on a budget of $45 million). But, let's face it, we all knew an action movie about skydiving thieves would be dumb, so just embrace it. Now, sit back, enjoy the ludicrous wig of Busey's student double, and get high with an Elevated IPA from La Cumbre Brewing! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake are toasting to blue skies and black death! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Passenger 57 is back, but this time he's jumping out of planes! (00:00)Lingering Questions – In a movie full of practical stunts, which was our favorite? (20:44)The "Blue Skies, Black Death" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast sabotages their opponents parachute, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (47:27)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We finish "Hops and Xtreme Flops," with a movie only Bling Blake has heard of, Damned River! (54:59) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—how they pulled off all the stunts and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Rollerball (2002) is one of the worst movies any of us have ever seen; and that is saying something. Directed by John McTiernan—who always seems to appear on our pod, despite directing some of our favorite films—Rollerball was a remake of a 1975 film starring James Caan. The 2002 version retains none of what made that movie work. It's social criticisms are half-baked, the actual Rollerball scenes are nauseating, and its lead, Chris Klein, makes wood appear emotive by comparison. Shot, reshot, and shot again, Rollerball is an absolute mess onscreen. Off-screen, the situation was even worse. McTiernan, who was in a bitter battle over the course of the film, illegally wiretapped the movie's producer—an action that would land him in prison years later. Thus, Rollerball's 3% on Rotten Tomatoes should not come as a shock, nor should its meager box office gross of $25.9 million (its budget was $70 million). One didn't require night vision to see that this project was set to crash and burn. Now, sit back, pound as many Voodoo Ranger Fruit Force IPAs from New Belgium as your stomach will allow, and watch out for the motorcycles! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake are ready to start the revolution—John-A-Thon! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Go Ballistic! (00:00)Lingering Questions – How in the hell was this released in this state? (48:12)The "Close Your Eyes and Take the Money" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast uses the Rollerball as a bludgeon, and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:24:48)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Xtreme Flops," with the the skydiving heist film, Drop Zone! (1:36:10) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—why McTiernan got sent to the pen and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Airborne is rad. That fact can't be denied, even if rollerblading isn't as cool as it was in 1993. That said, Airborne is also very 90s; and if you didn't grow up during that decade, the tubular nature of the film will probably escape you. Anyway, Airborne centers around a hip California kid, who gets shipped off to Cincinnati, Ohio, to live with his relatives for six months. Mitchell Goosen is a fish out of water. The particular body of water is the Pacific Ocean. Naturally, he has trouble adjusting, and the midwestern jocks of Cincy don't exactly welcome him either. That is, until they realize he's Jesus on blades! That's the movie. Sprinkle in some romance and a young Scott Evil fashion show, and you've got the single best movie about rollerblading street races ever. Now, sit back, shred a few Ponto Session IPAs from Pizza Port Brewing Co., and enjoy the liquid Drano! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are ready to chill, brah! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – There are two kinds of people: those who get AIRBORNE...and those who don't! (00:00)Lingering Questions – Which of us would survive a harrowing rollerblade race? (30:26)The "Devil's Backbone" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast crosschecks their opponents, and then I challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (48:10)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Xtreme Flops," with the rollerblading-centric disaster, 2002's Rollerball! (58:16) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—Cincy's love for the film and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Moonfall—written and directed by the master of "Disaster Movies" Roland Emmerich—is, quite ironically, a disaster of a movie. Essentially, in Moonfall, the Moon is on a crash course with earth because malevolent artificial intelligence (AI) has knocked it off its axis. Oh, and the moon is actually a megastructure that was created by an ancient population in the far distant past. That society built the Moon to escape the evil AI, ensuring their species—us, or humanity rather—would be able to survive. None of this is a joke. Without Bruce Willis and his mining crew to save Earth, we're left with Samwell Tarley and Orm, a disgraced astronaut who encountered the asshole AI ten years prior. Anyway, loads of dumb stuff happens, CGI gets vomited all over the screen, unearned family feels occur, and, ultimately, the day is saved. We can only expect that Emmerich consulted several moronic conspiracy theorists while writing it. Hence why it received mediocre reviews—36% on Rotten Tomatoes with 214 of them–and failed to recoup its sizable budget. It earned just $67.3 million worldwide on a budget as high as $150 million. For Emmerich, who independently produced this nonsense, Moonfall was a financial crater. Now, sit back, send your tastebuds into orbit with a Space Dust IPA from Elysian Brewing, and be wary of space conspiracy theories! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are sending nukes to the Moon! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – In 2022, Humanity will face the dark side of the Moon! (00:00)Lingering Questions – Is there any possible way to fix this movie? (41:34)The "Super Structure" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast outwrestles the rogue AI, and then Bling Blake challenges the field to trivia about the Moon. (1:06:52)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We kickoff "Hops and Xtreme Flops," with the rollerblading classic, Airborne! (1:20:46) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the potential sequels and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Three Thousand Years of Longing is George Miller's much anticipated return to cinemas. Post Mad Max: Fury Road, expectations were high for his next project. Sadly, Three Thousand Years of Longing can't live up to the lofty expectations of its filmmaker's predecessor. It's not a bad movie by any means; but its tale of a lonely woman finding love and purpose through an ancient Djinn isn't exactly compelling either. Apparently, audiences agreed. On a budget of $60 million, it failed to pass even $20 million. In essence, Three Thousand Years of Longing couldn't conjure the magic Miller and co. hoped it would. Now, sit back, fulfill your thirst desires with a Desert Magic IPA from Mudshark Brewing, and be careful what you wish for! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake are scouring Istanbul for a genie in a bottle! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – What would you wish for? (00:00)Lingering Questions – And, now, what would we wish for? (19:40)The "Sugar Lump" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast wins the Genie on a Pole match, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (37:00)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We conclude "Hops and Massive 2022 Flops," with the ridiculously stupid, Moonfall! (46:16) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—this film's lore and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

The Northman is a wild, Viking fever dream. So, if you're a fan of their mythology and lore, you will probably love it. If not, then The Northman is a tough one to recommend. It is loaded with weird imagery and historical Viking rituals that will make little to no sense if you're not familiar with them. Hence, it's disappointing box office return. It grossed just $69.6 million on a budget of $90 million. Though those numbers were both highs for director Robert Eggers, the former makes it a flop. Despite its financial stumble, The Northman is a wonderful film to look at. Shot in various locations across Europe, it is, quite simply, a beautiful film. Sadly, that visual splendor is muddled by the morally grey characters who inhabit it. Regardless, it is a film that boasts two naked men fighting in a volcano; and that's just not something you get to see every day. Now, sit back, hack open an Icelandic White Ale from Einstok Beer Co., and consult the severed head of wisdom! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are howling at the moon in our underwear! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Conquer your fate! (00:00)Lingering Questions – We discuss why this film failed to find commercial success. (39:32)The "War Raven" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast hits someone with a knattleikr stick, and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (59:56)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Massive 2022 Flops," with a tale centuries in the making, Three Thousand Years of Longing! (1:09:14) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—Egger's desire for more full frontal combat and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Black Adam was supposed to change the hierarchy of the DC Universe. Instead, it tanked with critics and couldn't conjure enough magic at the box office to earn a sequel. Thus, it appears the Rock's long awaited appearance as the anti-hero is a one and done. Frankly, that kind of sucks because Black Adam is an entertaining movie. It's a flawed one, to be sure, but watching the titular hero mow down bad guys is a hell of a lot of fun. Throw in an exceptional Pierce Brosnan portrayal of Dr. Fate, as well as a more than capable Hawkman adaptation (played by Aldis Hodge), and the groundwork for a bigger, better sequel was laid. Alas, it is not meant to be. Grossing just $392.6 million on a budget north of $200 million, Black Adam couldn't prove its worth to the new DC higher ups. Bummer. Now, sit back, electrify your taste buds with a Black Butte Porter from Deschutes, and tell them the man in black sent you! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are rallying Kahndaq to fight the undead army of Sabbac! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – The world needed a hero. It got Black Adam. The time of heroes is over! (00:00)Lingering Questions – We bid a fond farewell to Hop Nation USA, and then we discuss how badass it would've been to see Superman throw down with the Rock. (35:59)The "Teth-Adam" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast wins a battle royal against Amanda Waller's goons, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (1:06:54)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Massive 2022 Flops," with a tale of bloody, Viking revenge, The Northman! (1:18:52) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the Rock's big DC pitch and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

The Wizard is a needlessly dark road trip movie about a young boy trying to find closure after the death of his twin sister. The rest of the movie doesn't seem to understand that because that portion of the plot was written at the last minute, so it plays much more like a kids version of Rain Man, where the older brother exploits his younger, video game master brother for his own financial gain. Literally. The Wizard, as it juggles it darker elements, also serves as a commercial for Nintendo. An antagonist sports the Power Glove; it boasts several scenes of the titular boy wonder excelling at arcade games that are actually their Nintendo versions; and it culminates in a video game tournament, where Super Mario Bros. 3 is the championship game. Sounds like a lot of fun, except The Wizard isn't. And somehow, the lovable (before he was problematic) Fred Savage is just an annoying asshole throughout. Now, sit back, pick up and put down an Arcade IPA from Knee Deep Brewing Co., and beware of the Power Glove ... It's so bad! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are hitching a ride in a Hostess truck to fulfill our dreams of video game glory! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – It's more than a game ... It's the chance of a lifetime! (00:00)Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss what games we would excel at in Video Armageddon. (23:44)The "I Love the Power Glove" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast enters a cheat code to win, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (40:50)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We begin 2023 with "Hops and Massive 2022 Flops," talking the film that failed to truly change the hierarchy of power in DC, Black Adam! (49:48) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—Shout Factory's awesome blu-ray release and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

Mars Attacks! is based upon a series of Topps trading cards released in the early 1960s. And it certainly pays homage to its inspiration. Unfortunately, its also a narrative mess that fails to get the most out of its stacked cast. Mars Attacks! features an all-star lineup. It's got Jack Nicholson in two roles, Jim Brown, Joe Don Baker, Annette Bening, Glenn Close, Michael J. Fox, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Pierce Brosnan, just to name a few. And, yes, their presence is felt, but outside of Nicholson, who's terrific as a Las Vegas Huckster and the President, they all have nothing to do. That is the great failing of Mars Attacks! It wants to do a lot without really doing anything at all. It's all just empty spectacle—little green CGI men conquering a hapless earth. Hence why it received middling to negative reviews—56% on Rotten Tomatoes with 86 of them—and was beheaded like an annoying chihuahua at the box office. On a budget of $100 million, Mars Attacks! raked in just north of $101 million worldwide. The losses on that are enough to make a financier's head explode like a martian listening to Slim Whitman. Now, sit back, disintegrate a Double County Double IPA from Dry County Brewing, and do not trust the martians! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, Capt. Cash, and Bling Blake are optimistic about still having two out of the three branches of government. That ain't bad! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Nice planet. We'll take it! (00:00)Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss assess why this movie flopped. (36:14)The "They Blew Up Congress!" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast pins a red skeleton, and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:07:12)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We finish "Hops and All I Want for Christmas Flops" with 1989's blatant Nintendo commercial, The Wizard! (1:17:09) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the current value of the cards and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

GI Joe: The Movie was meant for big things. Like Transformers and My Little Pony, it would be the property's big screen debut. The failures of those two prevented it from ever getting the chance, though. Even worse, it was meant to serve as a lead-in to the third season of the television show that, ultimately, never happened. Well, it sort of did, but far later and with a different animation studio at the helm. Essentially, it's all a big "what if?", but if you love the toys, then the odds are good you will love GI Joe: The Movie. It introduces a host of new Cobra and Joe characters to enjoy and even builds upon the lore of how Cobra came to be. Cobra-La, as silly and odd as it is, is visually interesting, and its central characters—Golobulus, Pythona, and Nemesis Enforcer—are all extremely cool. Throw in Sgt. Slaughter's Marauders, and you've got yourself a damn good time. Plus, GI Joe: The Movie has a sick opening song set to a battle at the Statue of Liberty! It's a banger, folks. Now, sit back, toast to America with a Space Camper Red Spectra IPA from Boulevard Brewing Co., and start your trek to the Slaughter House! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and Bling Blake were once men! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Fighting for freedom wherever there's trouble! (00:00)Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss our favorite real American heroes. (32:47)The "Yo Joe!" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast spars with Beach Head, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the cartoon series. (48:26)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue off "Hops and All I Want for Christmas Flops" with the Mars Attacks! (57:43) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the incredible toy line and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!

RIPD— the Rest in Peace Department—is based upon a comic of the same name. We're not sure about the source material, but the film is just a unabashed Men in Black ripoff. There's the wisecracking rookie who's new to the job; and the crotchety old vet who's stuck with him. Their job is to protect the earth from monstrous spirits, or deados, who walk among them, avoiding their fate in the afterlife. So, let's run this down. Secret government agency? Check. Young, quippy star? Check. Elder curmudgeon? Check. And plot that revolves around said agency protecting the unsuspecting public from a threat they have no idea exists? Check. Thus, RIPD is just a 2013 version of a 1997 film, and in no way is that a compliment. Why? Well, because most of it does not work. And it's central elements are just grifted from better movies. The villain, played hammily by the great Kevin Bacon, is essentially just the budget Gozer from Ghostbusters. With all that in mind, you can probably guess that this flopped and was buried by critics. On a budget estimated to be as high as $154 million, it earned a putrid $78.3 million. It's 12% on Rotten Tomatoes is also as moldy as one of the deados who's been hiding out on earth for too long. Now, sit back, enjoy the after life with a Dead 'N' Dead from Rogue, and stay frosty! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and a special guest are hunting down evil Kevin Bacon in the mean streets of Boston! This Week’s Segments: Introduction/Plot Breakdown – They're defending our world one soul at a time! (00:00)Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we all choose our RIPD avatars. (30:37)The "Sounds Like an STD" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast handcuffs some deados, and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (49:29)Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We kick off "Hops and All I Want for Christmas Flops" with the GI Joe: The Movie! (58:27) And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the direct to Netflix sequel and more—from this week’s episode! You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, Amazon Music, and more!