Flix & Picks with Brayan Mendoza: Recent Episodes
Radio111
We’re buttering up a fresh bucket of popcorn and ready to talk Movies every week on Radio111's Flix & Picks with Brayan Mendoza, a life-long Coachella Valley resident and film buff whose passion is film criticism and education. He explores the week’s best and worst films, discusses relevant film topics, interviews filmmakers and actors, and dissects all things cinema every week.
With witty insight and film education, Brayan gives you honest, fun and accessible film analysis to help guide you not only into the right theatre, but to the best selections on Netflix, Amazon Prime and other online film outlets.
The Guardians are back for Volume 3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 finds THE superhero team going through a lot of emotional trauma, adventure, and self-discovery. James Gunn effectively mixes comedy, action and drama in his MCU swan song. Brayan Mendoza talks about his excited feelings regarding this film's major success as an emotionally gut-wrenching superhero movie.
The latest remake on Disney+. Peter Pan and Wendy makes a great amount of changes from the original source material. Yet, it feels like a replay of the same ole story that has been popular with audiences for decades. Brayan Mendoza discusses that the film's lack of cinematic ambition.
Evil Dead Rise officially leave the woods and into a Los Angeles apartment where the reunion of two estranged sisters is cut short by familiar bloodthirsty spirits. The new film in the franchise seeks to revamp and freshen up the long running cult franchise. Brayan Mendoza talks how successfully the scares are after so many years.
Nicholas Hoult goes toe-to-toe with Nicholas Cage's Draculaas the long-suffering Renfield. The once faithful servant of the dark lord is now planning to escape his toxic workplace, and find meaning somewhere else. Perhaps, it could be with a young traffic cop played by comedian Awkwafina. On this episode, Brayan Mendoza takes a look at the campy possibilities of this film, and how the performances save the writing.
Air is a movie about a shoe. Yes, a shoe. Specifically the Nike line of Air Jordans inspired by Basketball MVP Michael Jordan. This film covers the process of recruiting Jordan to sponsor the line, to its very creation, and Deloris Jordan's advocacy for her son. Brayan Mendoza talks about how this film about a shoe manages to be an emotional and inspiring tale.
Mario, his brother Luigi and their friends Princess Peach and Toad are back on the big screen! The Super Mario Bros. adapts the classic video game with strong sense of fidelity. Chris Pratt leads the star studded cast as the title character. Can he and other actors pull off being these iconic video game characters? Or will it tarnish the otherwise beautiful animation?
Shazam! Fury of the Gods is the first of a few films on the DCEU farewell tour before we get a soft reboot from James Gunn. The movie is rather disjointed by trying to do family subplots, Gods, teen romance and superhero hijinx all in one. Helen Mirren sells her performance as a morally complex God but can the same be said about her co-stars? Brayan Mendoza talks about how this film continues a trend of nailing the coffin of the DCEU and the end-credits scenes that make a joke out of imaginative characters.
We've come to the end of the first season of HBO's hit new series The Last of Us. Radio111 silver screen and tube reviewer Brayan Mendoza gives us his final thoughts on this adaptation of literature to film, and what he anticipates in subsequent installments.
With the success of last year's Scream(2022), filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett return to direct the sequel Scream VI. This time, Samantha Carpenter(Melissa Barrera) and her sister Tara(Jenna Ortega) find themselves terrorized by another Ghostface killer in New York City. As the bodies pile up, past secrets and legacy characters Kirby(Hayden Panettiere) and Gale Weathers(Courtney Cox) make their way to the surface of this meta-slasher. Brayan Mendoza talks the movie's great sense of humor, suspense and the absence of Neve Campbell from the cast.
The Whale is Brendan Fraser's comeback film! His fans have been rooting for his return to the big screen and to see him succeed. He has achieved an Academy Award nomination for this film, and now its time to talk about it! However, there's controversy over the usage of the fat suit in the film. Brayan Mendoza talks about Brendan Fraser, Hong Chau and the fat suit controversy.
Winnie The Pooh: Blood and Honey is the result of a copyright lapse with Winnie The Pooh finally in the public domain. Imagine a generic slasher film with terrible Winnie the Pooh costumes. Brayan Mendoza talks how the film lives and dies on its gimmick, and if the film really could be a new "midnight movie" classic.
Missing is the latest film in the screenlife horror genre, starring Storm Reid. A young girl who is trying to figure out what happened to her mother. The film has many twists and turns, as typical of the genre. However Reid's performance is another step forward in her career. Brayan Mendoza talks about her performance, along with the film's fun qualities.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania is out! Featuring the cinematic debut of the MCU's newest big bad Kang as played by Jonathan Majors. He's in fact the highlight of this otherwise mixed bag of a movie. Is Marvel cursed? Why so many mixed bag movies? Brayan Mendoza talks the ups, the downs and the bizarre of this newest installment in the MCU.
Knock at the Cabin is the latest M. Night Shymalan film with Dave Bautista, Jonathan Groff, and Ben Alridge. The film follows a family who are harassed and attacked by a cult-like group that think they are the key to the apocalypse. Within the confines of the cabin, the film explores homophobia, religious violence, and making sacrifices. Brayan Mendoza talks about the film's many good qualities, but also why it's not a great work.
The Last of Us is HBO's new Sunday Night TV series, based on the beloved video game. The series stars Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey as Joel and Ellie, who have to travel through post-pandemic America. The series features special guest appearances from Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett. With special regards to the third episode, the series has been credited for breaking the "video game curse" and being just great tv. Brayan Mendoza talks about the many great performances and moments of the first five episodes.
On this special episode, Brayan Mendoza discusses the Golden Raspberry Awards which awards the worst in cinema. However this year has been particularly noteworthy for the nomination redaction of underage actress Ryan Kiera Armstrong in Firestarter. The award has historically caused damage and ruination for the careers of many child actors. Should the Razzies nominate children? That, and he picks his own winners in this episode.
In this special episode, Brayan Mendoza talks about the 95th Academy Award nominations. From the positives like Everything Everywhere All At Once dominating with eleven nominations and Michelle Yeoh being the favorite to win Best Actress. Along with the negative: the snubbing of women in the directing nominations and the Andrea Riseborough's FYC campaign controversy.
Velma is an adults only cartoon re-imagining of Scooby Doo minus Scooby Doo, and more unlikeable characters. Velma Dinkley is the focus of the series as she resolves a murder at her local high school with the help of her ex-best friend Daphne. Brayan Mendoza talks about the show's inability to connect to a wider audience, and how other shows like Harley Quinn have done better at remixing old franchises.
The original House Party is well known for the fun chemistry of Kid N' Play, and it's intelligent sense of humor. A remake has been long been rumored and now is finally released to little fanfare. House Party(2022) is being released for the big screen despite its initial plan for HBO MAX. Brayan Mendoza talks about the film's over-reliance on cameos, and how its ambitions should be higher.
Our favorite feline assassin is back in Puss In Boots: The Last Wish, and he's better than ever! Puss has to get to the wishing star before the likes of three bears, Goldilocks, and Jack Horner, and escaping the clutches of a wolf assassin. He'll need the help of his friends Kitty Softpaw and Perrito to not only get his wish, but to survive his final life. Brayan Mendoza gushes about the beautiful animation, and the film's touching messages about life and family.
M3GAN has been everywhere! You've seen the dance moves, and the tiktoks inspired by it. Now the movie is actually out, but is it worth your time? Brayan Mendoza talks about the film's mix of campy humor with killer doll horror.
Amy Adams is back in Disenchanted, the long awaited sequel to the 2007 Disney cult classic Enchanted. The loveable Disney Princess Giselle is having new troubles which includes raising a teenager and arguing with Maya Rudolph. She uses magic to resolve her problems which then causes even more problems! Yikes! Brayan Mendoza discusses this film, along with its noticeably lower budget, and stakes. Can the film's wonderfully talented actresses redeem the film? Stay tuned!
With Chadwick Boseman's passing in 2020, director Ryan Coogler had the difficult challenge of creating a sequel to one of the highest grossing films of all time. Black Panther was a cultural landmark that inspired black audiences, in particular black boys who saw themselves in King T'Challa. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is a tribute to Boseman's legacy, and an exciting new adventure in the gloriously technologically advanced nation of Wakanda. Brayan Mendoza shares his thoughts on the film's many successes and hopes that he has for future MCU projects.
Netflix hit Big Mouth is back for a sixth season of teen-sex angst comedy. Brayan Mendoza says it's just as gross and subversive as ever, with a lot of laughter. This season includes parental divorce, asexuality, being a wolf, parenthood, plenty of sexual escapades, and becoming a sibling. The characters just continue to go through so much in Middle School that one wonders if they can survive high school. Your reviewertalks about the new season, whether it will hold up to the great season four, or is it a decline in quality?
Chinonye Chukwu's Till,a movie about Mamie Till-Bradley, a mother who pursues justice for the murder of her 14 year old son Emmett Till. Without dramatizing the murder itself, the film aims to touch upon her grief, and the politics surrounding her son's death. In addition to that, Till aims to hold many people accountable and provides no easy answers as to how to do so. Brayan Mendoza talks about the film, its emotional power, and Danielle Deadwyler's wonderful performance.
House of the Dragon has a long upward battle since the unsatisfying ending of its parent show Game of Thrones. Yet, it managed to become the most-talked-about show of the Fall 2022 TV season. Featuring unforgettable performances from Paddy Considine, Matt Smith, Emma D'Arcy, Oliva Cooke, Milly Alcock, Rhys Ifans, Emily Carrey and Eve Best. This series is bound to be the next Emmy darling, and Brayan Mendoza delves into it on this episode.
Dwayne Johnson's Black Adam has been his passion project for so long. He has gone to bat for this film, and its fans. Even today, rarely do we see an actor be such an advocate for a film and fight for its box office. However most of the conversation is about that end credits cameo, so is the film any good? Is it a 2 hour filler for a "super" promise? If you catch our drift. Brayan Mendoza talks about this sometimes uneven but fun film.
Tatiana Maslany is lawyer Jennifer Walters, who becomes the "savage" She-Hulk. Disney+'s newest show is a mix of a sitcom with a little bit of Daredevil sprinkled throughout. A bit inconsistent in terms of narrative focus, She-Hulk has a tough time appealing to the disillusioned MCU fanbase. Is there anyway for our green lady to smash all the MCU haters? or will she just add fuel to the fire? Tune in to Brayan Mendoza as he tries to find the nuance in all the polarizing discourse.
If you thought that Halloween Kills divided the fanbase, Halloween Ends will do that and so much more. The final film in the David Gordon Green trilogy balances being a thoughtful piece on generational trauma and the final confrontation between Michael Myers and Laurie Strode. Considering the fanbase's history of hating new approaches to the series, will they appreciate this very different film? Or will it find its appreciation years later like Halloween III: Season of the Witch? Brayan Mendoza talks about the film's novel perspective of moving on from the horrors of the past, with the occasional stabbing or two (Literally).
Lyle Lyle Crocodile has finally made it to the big screen. Featuring many tropes of past-family comedies, the film has a curious case of "celebrity voice." Shawn Mendes' voice as Lyle has many fans mixed, especially Brayan Mendoza. Can movie audiences enjoy this movie if the voice doesn't fit the main animated character? Is it more than just a cliche family comedy? Is Lyle actually cute? So many questions to ponder, but Brayan will be glad to guide you through it.
Hellraiser has finally arrived on Hulu. Many fans of the franchise are anticipating this reimagining after years of horrible Weinstein-produced Hellraiser films. This time, the role of Pinhead aka the Hell Priest is played by the beautiful Jaime Clayton. Brayan Mendoza talks the complicated and unhappy history of the franchise, along with his thoughts on the film's themes of regret and suffering. Will the Hellraiser franchise finally redeem itself? Can Clayton reinvent the iconic Pinhead?
Attention Salem, The Sanderson Sisters are BACK! The long-awaited sequel Hocus Pocus 2 finally hits Disney Plus. Will it be able to capture the campy magic of the original film? Will audiences dismiss it as a cash in attempt at easy nostalgia points? You'll be surprised by what Brayan Mendoza has to say.
Comedian Billy Eichner goes mainstream with Bros. The newest romantic comedy about two gay men navigating the complex dating scene and finding love with each other. Bros is being touted out as the first (or, one of the first) major releases with a largely LGTBQ+ cast. Outside of its historical stance, is the film about to break into the mainstream? Can Eichner's niche brand of comedy find a new appreciative audience? Brayan Mendoza is here to sing the praises of one of the funniest films of the year.
A Jazzman's Blues is the movie that Tyler Perry has been wanting to make all his life. A Jim-Crow era romance with a mix of murder mystery and musical film. Perry has been aiming for Oscar gold for a good amount of his career. Has he earned the respect of critics with this film? Can he prove that he is indeed a storyteller of our time?
The behind-the-scenes drama of Don't Worry Darling is so juicy and enticing that it can be a whole movie onto itself. There's Olivia V. Florence, Florence v. Shia, Shia v. Olivia, Harry v. Chris, and so much more. However, is this Stepford Wives inspired film any good? That's the real question! Or rather, can it survive the drama? or even live up to it?
Better Call Saul has never won an Emmy, despite having 46 nominations. Rhea Seahorn and Bob Odenkirk have been snubbed on multiple occasions. The fan base has been in an uproar with the latest snubs at the 74th Primetime Emmys. Brayan Mendoza talks why the Emmys are becoming more difficult to win, fan reactions, and why Better Caul Saul could still have a chance next year (or not!).
Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis stars in The Woman King. A movie with a grand epic scale highlighting the Agoje warriors of the Dahomey Kingdom and their fight against the Oyo Empire. Brayan Mendoza talks about how brilliant the film is, from its acting to its handling of difficult historical topics such as the slave trade.
Pinocchio is back on Disney Plus. The original classic film has a new CGI makeover, and an all star cast. Is it any good? Is it soulless? Is it another product for the Disney Machine? Brayan Mendoza has returned for a new season to his screening room and will provides his commentary. Let's put it this way: he's back with a passion to talk about why the original will always be timeless!
DC League of Super Pets is a curious piece of animation and Superhero movie. DC and Warner Brothers has had many struggles at the box office, due to their own decisions regarding stars, and directors. How does this animated film about Superman's dog fighting crime fit into this? Is it the direction that DC should pursue instead of Live Action? However, we can ask those questions, but is it actually any good as a comedy? Brayan Mendoza talks the film's appeal to adult fans, and why Kate McKinnon is so deserving of the good reviews she's getting for this film.
South Park: The Streaming Wars is the latest film in the franchise on Paramount Plus, following up the surprisingly heartwarming South Park: Post COVID special. However, this time, the series seems to be biting a bit more than it can chew, and even the hand that feeds it. Brayan Mendoza talks about the misfires and occasional successes of this satirical view on streaming services.
Jordan Peele's NOPE is his newest film since 2019's Us. It's a film that asks its character and the audience to look to the skies for danger. Much more effects-driven and ambitious, the film is sure to be another risk and hit for Peele! Brayan Mendoza talks about the film's potential as a blockbuster and an Oscar darling.
While you wait for new the new Beavis and Butthead episodes, they have a movie for you! Beavis and Butthead Do The Universe is the newest movie in the franchise, with the not-so dynamic duo exploring the universe and today's changing world. Brayan Mendoza talks about why its still relevantly funny and how the characters have remained iconic.
Thor: Love and Thunder is Chris Hemsworth's fourth MCU solo film which makes him the first one to have one! It also marks the return of Natalie Portman as Jane Foster and she becomes THE MIGHTY THOR! A bright, colorful and funny movie by eccentric director Taika Waititi. However, is it an empty experience? Does it mean anything? Brayan Mendoza talks all this and his thoughts on the film.
Stranger Things 4 is the most talked show in Netflix history and good reason! It is an highly anticipated and exciting time. Brayan Mendoza has been a fan of this show since its premiere. He talks about what he loved about this season, along with his season 5 hopes.
The Black Phone is a frightening call back to 1970s horror cinema, with its Joe Hill based story about a young boy who is kidnapped by the infamous Grabber. Brayan Mendoza talks about how this film is a dark portrait of the 70s and a frighteningly emotional story. Elvis is Baz Lurhman's Biopic about Elvis Presley, with Austin Butler in the lead. Butler's performance does for this film as Rami Malek does for Bohemian Rhapsody. Brayan talks about the film's whackiness along with Butler's greatness.
Obi-Wan Kenobi marks the return of Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi to the Star Wars franchise. The first four episodes have been out on Disney Plus and many have given it a mixed reception. Some love it for its different take on the legacy characters while others have decried it as not being well directed. Brayan Mendoza talks about how the series has many great ingredients, but may not be a great product.
Jurassic World: Dominion is the final film of the franchise... for now. Brayan Mendoza talks about the famous Spielberg quote that explained the lesser quality of the sequels, and how it applies to this film. With the return of Collin Trevorrow in the director's seat, can this film serve as the finale that fans have been clamoring for? Or is just another step into this franchise's decline?
After twelve seasons, Bob's Burgers gets a movie! Brayan Mendoza admires the show for its wholesome, kind and random qualities. Can the film be as faithful to the quality fo the series? Is the upgraded animation really THAT much better? YES.
Top Gun: Maverick surpasses its original film in so many ways, and it looks to leave a bigger mark at the box office. While Brayan Mendoza likes the original, he does agree with the sentiment. The film deconstructs nostalgia, and emotionally charged trauma with great action scenes sprinkled in.
That mid-season finale ending has set the fanbase on fire! Brayan Mendoza talks Better Call Saul and its ability to keep an audience in suspense despite being a prequel. This first part of the final season saw many twists and turns, and deaths! He talks about that, along with his hopes for the next part which will premiere in July.
After three years, Strangers Things has returned to television! Not even a real life pandemic can stop these kids from defeating monsters on Netflix! The first 7 episodes are up on Netflix, while the last two premiere later in July. Brayan Mendoza talks about the quality of the episodes, along with the eerie parallels to real life that this season has.
Chip and Dale are BACK! Chip N' Dale Rescue Rangers is unexpected, and totally different from the adventure focused television series from the 80s. Featuring cameos from familiar animation icons, fourth wall breaking humor, and surprisingly mature humor. Brayan Mendoza talks about the fun and hi-jinx that is this movie.
Based on the popular series of children's books by Aaron Blabey, The Bad Guys follows a group of "not so scary" animal bad guys as they slowly come to the realization that maybe being "good" isn't so bad. With bright animation, and a great voice cast, Brayan Mendoza talks about his enjoyment of this unexpected gem.
Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is finally out! Audiences have been enjoying the movie. Awaiting cameos from variants of their favorite characters. However some are divided on the characterization of beloved character Wanda Maxmioff(The Scarlett Witch). In particular with relation to the critically acclaimed WandaVision. Host Brayan Mendoza talks the scary, the weird and the downright b-movieness of this anticipated MCU film.
Better Call Saul season six is finally out! Garnering praise by fans as being the best season so far with an exciting two episode premiere and an earth-shattering third episode. Brayan Mendoza talks about the good, and the Mando in the first three episodes of the season.
Everything Everywhere All At Once is receiving major early Oscar buzz for its extraordinary depiction of generational trauma, its great central performance by Michelle Yeoh(a legend) and its chaotic direction by Daniels. This episode, Brayan Mendoza talks about how this film is not only a great movie, but a once in a generation work. He really means it. Trust us.
Brayan Mendoza is not the only person to tell you that the Fantastic Beasts is a cursed and convoluted mess of a franchise. The films themselves being an unplanned and unsure story that has yet to flesh out. Johnny Depp being replaced as Grindleward due to his courtroom troubles with ex wife Amber Heard. Star Ezra Miller being the subject of a public mental breakdown. Finally, writer J.K Rowling and her not so great relationship with the trans community. Now you must be asking: what about the actual movie? is it really doomed to fail? Is there any hope for this starving franchise? Tune in and find out if it's good enough to make you look past all the controversies.
Introducing Brayan Mendoza's multi-part review of the final season of AMC's hit series Better Call Saul. After two years, Better Call Saul is coming back to AMC! A turbulent production ranging from pandemics to Bob Odenkirk's near-fatal attack. This series promises to finally answer fan questions: What's going to happen to Kimberly Wexler? Will Saul Goodman get caught? How will Gus and his crew stop Lalo? Will Walter White make a cameo?
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 embraces fan service, a sharp contrast to the first film's struggle(and redemption) with the game's fanbase. Featuring fan favorites Tails, and Knuckles, with Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. Brayan Mendoza gives his thoughts on one of the most anticipated video game movie adaptations of all time.
After many delays, Morbius finally gets released. Unfortunately for Brayan Mendoza, it's not exactly a memorable film. However, it does leave a lot to be said about the future of the Spider Sony Universe(SSU), and what can it do to avoid being in the shadow of the MCU(Marvel Cinematic Universe). Tune in for a fair review of the film along with a discussion of how cinematic universes can fail.
A week later, and we are still talking about the 94th Academy Awards. Brayan Mendoza devotes this episode to highlighting the infamous incident, but more specifically the historic wins, something that sadly is not getting enough attention from viewers. As a fierce defender of animation, he also touches upon the mockery of Animated films. Let's talk about it! AND YES, he does touch upon a bit on the Will Smith-Chris Rock situation. We can't avoid that. (Tune into the Oscar episode of The Desert Scene for more thoughts on the ceremony)
Brayan Mendoza has mixed feelings about the Golden Raspberry Awards. They sometimes get it right by picking on some of the worst movies of all time. However they've unfairly nominated essential classics like The Shining. 2021 had plenty of below average movies, and the Razzies (dis)honored them early this year. So he'll be giving his thoughts on the winners, and if they were deserving of their "win".
South Park is celebrating 25 years on television. Recently it has experienced a resurgence in popularity due to the COVID-19 themed specials on Paramount Plus. This is the first complete season of the show, and it is its shortest to date. Brayan Mendoza talks about his mixed feelings regarding this show's full return to your TV screens.
Euphoria has aired its final episode of season two. Brayan Mendoza loved the critically acclaimed first season. But is season two just as good? With all its controversy over violence, sex, and drugs, is the show any more than just shock value at this point? Tune in to find out if the show is still just as great as it was back in 2019.
John DiMaggio got the deal he wanted from the Hulu revival of Futurama. Brayan Mendoza talks about what this means for him, for voice acting, and how actor absences have hurt previous revivals.
Turning Red is the latest motion picture by Pixar and its starting a conversation on Asian representation in media. Telling the story of a 13-year-old Chinese-Canadian girl who transforms into a red panda when excited. The film is being called niche by many in the film community, and Brayan Mendoza disagrees with that. He offers up his perspective on the film's quality, and its relatability to young Asian girls.
MADEA IS BACK! After promising to never play the character again, Tyler Perry returns as the gun-toting, truth telling grandma in this recent Netflix release. Brayan Mendoza has seen all the Madea movies, and feels this is a return to form of sorts for the character. As old characters like Mr. Brown, and Cora make their return to the franchise. Yet it begs the question: Does A Madea Homecoming still feature some of the series' problems in storytelling?
Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg star as Nathan Drake and Sullivan in the action adventure movie Uncharted. Based on the video games of the same name. The film has been the subject of scrutiny of the original fans for its casting decisions, and script choices. While movie goers have been mostly receptive to the film's Indiana Jones-esque vibe to it. Brayan Mendoza gives his thoughts on the film, and the overall discourse regarding video game movies.
Another requel, another day. Texas Chainsaw Massacre attempts to revive its corpse of a franchise for a new generation. It is obsessed with tackling issues of cancel culture, and gentrification. However, it gets the audience wondering, is it any good? Will the film's ambitious attempt at social commentary be its downfall? Brayan Mendoza slashes his way through the B.S of this latest legacy-quel.
With two films coming out this year, Channing Tatum is aiming for a comeback of sorts. Dog being the first, teams him up with a lovable military dog named Lulu. Aiming to be better than the average sappy dogfest, Brayan Mendoza looks at how effective the film is in handling trauma, and if Channing Tatum's career is taking the right steps for a comeback.
Hulu is reviving the groundbreaking animated program Futurama, which should be a cause for celebration! However it is short-lived as the fanbase learns that voice actor John DiMaggio will not be reprising his iconic role as the foul-mouth lovable robot Bender due to a lackluster salary negotiation between the actor and the studio. This has launched an overdue conversation about the importance of voice acting in Hollywood, and the lack of equity for performers. Brayan Mendoza offers up his perspective on voice acting equity, and the industry's double standards against voice actors.
The Book of Boba Fett has been a bit of a mixed bag for Star Wars fans. Some are concerned over the direction of the fan favorite Boba Fett character. Some others praising it over its ability to mix the Mafia and Space Western genres effectively. Brayan Mendoza gives us his complicated feelings over the series, especially in regards to it being a spin off ofThe Mandalorian.
Spider-Man: No Way Home made more than a billion dollars at the box office. The only film in the pandemic to do so. In this episode, Brayan Mendoza takes a look at the highest grossing films of 2021. He talks about the success of the local Chinese market, HBOMax's failures, and Spidey's success.
And Just Like That... has divided fans of the hit program Sex and the City, while generating big ratings for HBO MAX. Brayan Mendoza has been tuning in every week to check out the latest adventures of the fou-I mean, three women. He couldn't help but wonder, is this any good? In this special spoiler episode, he brings the good, the bad and the ugly of this new era of our tv friends' lives.
2021 was a complicated year but one thing's for certain, there wasn't a shortage of bad cinema. Everything from bad musicals about suicide to basketball playing A.I to movies about your racist white neighbor. Brayan Mendoza shares(but does not recommend) his picks for the very worst of 2021's cinematic offerings.
The #RecastT'Challa movement has reached the mainstream conversation. The goal being to not retire the character of T'Challa from Marvel Studios' Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, but to recast him after the death of Chadwick Boseman. Brayan Mendoza gives his perspective on the whole debate, along with ways to honor Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman's legacy in the upcoming sequel.
Brayan Mendoza provides an accessible 2022 guide to this year's upcoming horror movies. Everything from the the return of Jordan Peele, and the end of the Halloween series.
The latest Scream is generating a whole lot of positive buzz, and hype. Brayan Mendoza is here to talk all about it, and of course no spoilers! Following a group of teenagers getting killed by a psychopath, with each one being connected to the original cast. It is a horror legacy requel(a revival-sequel) that tackles the very nature of being one. Find out, if it's any worth going to the theaters.
Brayan Mendoza provides his 2021 Guide on how to navigate and find great Holiday films on the streaming services. As a bonus, you'll hear his thoughts on the Netflix film Single All The Way.
Join Brayan Mendoza as he talks about the much-anticipated remake of West Side Story. Steven Spielberg finally makes a musical. One that is sure to be triumphant and a return to form for the genre.
On this episode, Brayan Mendoza talks about Disney's latest animated flick: Encanto. Maribel is an unremarkable girl in a gifted family, but she is the key to a frightening prophecy. However the question is: Is the film just as magical as her casita? Listen in for more details.
Brayan Mendoza talks about House of Gucci on this episode. Lady Gaga and Adam Driver fall into a scandalous love affair. Fashion, wealth and murder are all part of this campy, yet slow, motion picture. Does Ridley Scott have another bomb? Or, is it a comeback? Or, could it land somewhere in between? Get Brayan's take on it from his Radio111 Mary Pickford Theatre screening room.
Who are you gonna call? Ghostbusters Afterlife! Wait a minute, that doesn't sound quite right. Nostalgia fuels the marketing for that movie, but is it any good? Will Smith aces his way into the Oscar season with King Richard. This week, Spider-Man: No Way Home premiered its highly anticipated trailer. Brayan Mendoza is the right man to talk about all this and so much more!
Clifford The Big Red Dog barks its way onto streaming and theater screens, but does it have any bite to it? Home Sweet Home Alone is actually worse than what the trailer makes it out to be. Cameron Boyce's swan song Runt makes its way to PVOD. Is it worth watching? Brayan Mendoza answers all these questions along with offering up his unapologetic opinions.
Film Fanatic Brayan Mendoza is recovering from a cold, but he is certainly giving a cold shoulder to Eternals. Pretty to look at it, but not much more than that. The Princess Diana biopic(maybe) Spencer excites and is held together by the brilliant Kristen Stewart. Will she finally prove her haters wrong? Will she get the Oscar nomination? Brayan offers up his usual brand of blunt perspective on these films, and the latest movie news.
Halyna Hutchin's tragic passing on the set of Rust continues to be the subject of speculation. Thomasin McKenzie revives Anya Taylor Joy's 1960s nightmare in Last Night In Soho, but is it a nightmare to watch? Dune Part Two becomes officially green-lit! Brayan Mendoza provides perspective, insight and criticism.
Tragedy strikes the film set of Rust in a preventable accident that took the life of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The science fiction epic Dune has landed, but does it have the spice? Is there anything really wrong about Ron's Gone Wrong? Host Brayan Mendoza has coverage and perspective this week on Flix And Picks!
Will the new Bond flick No Time To Die be a box office hit? All signs are indicating that’s the case. It headlines Brayan Mendoza’s focus on film this week. However, everyone seems to be talking about the groundbreaking Netflix series Squid Game. Is it all hype or a masterpiece from the pop culture heavens? Brayan also touches on the IATSE strike vote, the Friday The 13th lawsuit, and for queer entertainment fans, the latest season of The L Word Generation Q.
In this busy episode of Flix And Picks, Brayan Mendoza contemplates the surprising importance of Venom: Let There Be Carnage. Of course, he can't spoil the movie! But trust us, it's important. The Sopranos prequel film The Many Saints of Newark is here, is it as good? The Addams Family 2 is about a vacation, but sure doesn't feel like one. Tune in to also know Brayan's thoughts on the latest Marvel lawsuits.
Through the past year and a half of the pandemic, host Brayan Mendoza has contemplated the state of the movies. This week, he unleashes his thoughts on box office projections, vaccine mandates in theaters, and streaming entertainment. Brayan discusses the casting of the Mario Brothers movie, which has caused quite a stir. Dear Evan Hansen comes out this week. Is it as bad as everyone is saying? Is it deserving of controversy? Find out on this episode!
On this episode, Brayan Mendoza has so many things to say about Scoob!. The newest movie in the Scooby Doo Franchise has been released on digital for purchase. However, is it worth the 20 something dollars? Perhaps not? You need to tune in order to know. Brayan has so many mixed feelings, you wouldn't believe it. Scooby Doo On Zombie Island is touched upon as a alternative to the film, and is it really the best film in that franchise? YES! Find out why! In the second half of this episode, Brayan revisits and speaks highly about the beloved Avatar: The Last Airbender and its strong presence on Netflix. Finally, Warner Brothers brings us two big news to share with the world. In 2021, the highly anticipated Snyder Cut of Justice League is coming to HBO Max, and Ruby Rose leaves Batwoman season 2. Come join the conversation on at home celluloid !
On a very special Flix & Picks, Brayan Mendoza and his friend Dakota High pay tribute to adult animation on television. They talk about the general history of the genre as it started with The Flintstones. Among the topics in the first half would include discussing groundbreakers like The Simpsons, and its contemporaries like Beavis and Butthead, Daria, Futurama, Family Guy and King of the Hill. Other programs mentioned in the program include Rick and Morty, Big Mouth and American Dad. In the second half, they talk about the problems that have plagued the genre including longevity issues, jumping the shark, and cancellations. Finally, they end the show discussing their own personal list of favorites. They don't exactly agree but hey! Its part of the fun.
With another week at home, Brayan Mendoza begins our show by discussing one great and innovative way you can help out the local Mary Pickford Theater. We'll give you a hint, its called "Curbside pick-up". While he was munching on some popcorn, Brayan discovered A Secret Love, a insightful and moving documentary about the 65 year old relationship between two women Pat Henschel, and Terry Donahue. It seems like LGBT cinema has picked up the pace from last year, for this is the second LGBT-centric one to be discussed on this show since last episode! Later on this episode, Brayan gives us his first impressions of the FX on Hulu miniseries, Mrs. America, an empowering series about the fight for the ERA as led by feminists like Gloria Steinem, and the grassroots effort of conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly to stop it. Does it do a great job of representing the fight? Brayan will let you know. Other news discussed in this episode include Josh Trank's battles with Fox over Fantastic Four, Taika Waititi is directing a Star Wars movie, and Texas and the UK are making plans to reopen their movie theaters during the ongoing COVID 19 Pandemic.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a beautiful and marvelous movie streaming on HULU, and Brayan Mendoza can't wait to talk about it. You can really hear the excitement in this episode, he hasn't seen a great movie in a while. The other movie discussed in this episode, Outbreak is a cheesy, but occasionally intelligently written action movie disguised as a virus flick. Among the news of the day, AMC and Universal Studios might be breaking up, and we ask ourselves, "Are they ever going to get back together?". Finally, California theaters have a slightly clearer photo of when they can reopen again, but it won't be overnight.
Stay home, wash your hands and don't touch your face! Also, freak out and watch Contagion. Film critic Brayan Mendoza relents and finally watches it. Is he late for the party? Maybe, but he always has something to say about any film. He talks about the relevance of the film in modern day discourse about the Coronavirus Pandemic. Is it a good film regardless? We'll see. Brayan is currently obsessed with Cobra Kai, the television sequel to the Karate Kid film series. He talks about the two seasons, and how much he loves them. As well as discussing the legacy of the four films in the franchise, do they still hold up? Finally, other news discussed in this episode include San Diego Comic Con 2020's cancellation, EVEN MORE film delays, and HBO Max has a premiere date.
The industry is keeping an eye on Trolls: World Tour as it debuts digitally and apparently in very few theaters. Brayan Mendoza provides his insights on this film's importance during the COVID-19 pandemic, and answers the ever important question, is it any good though? However, he finally sat down and watch the first Trolls movie. Your kids love it, but will Brayan at least like it? Also, the Mary Pickford Theater in Cathedral City is doing something great for their employees, listen and find out how you can help. Finally, Brayan gives a quick review of the after-show reunion for Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness.
In the wake of COVID-19, host Brayan Mendoza urges you to stay home, and watch the sweet but predictable Stargirl, the newest movie on Disney+. He addresses the newest delays, and ways that movie studios will stream their movies on Amazon Prime, and even movie theaters asking for a much needed economic bail out. Halfway through the program, Brayan evaluates the beauty of "My Girl", the coming of age 1991 movie that is currently streaming on Netflix. Finally, he talks about "Cats" and its sweeping of the Golden Raspberry Awards, which awards THE WORST IN FILM.
On this special episode of Flix and Picks, Brayan Mendoza and Special Guest Dakota High of 21 Percent discuss the effect of the coronavirus on the film industry. Movies are being delayed, productions suspended, and theaters taking measures to protect their audiences. Despite all that, Fathom Events has a special screening of King Kong(1933) still going on. Our hosts have a spirited discussion of its greatness and importance, compared to its main cinematic rival, Godzilla(1954). Presented by the Mary Pickford Theatre. Mary Pickford is D'Place for Entertainment. http://www.DPlaceEntertainment.com
On this episode, Brayan Mendoza reviews and discusses the surprising successes of both Sonic, and The Call of the Wild. He also goes in depth on the latest film topics from Robert Pattinson's Batman costume to #SupportBirdsOfPrey.
Brayan focuses on movie news this week with a retrospective on what happened at last weekend's Academy Awards. He also discusses the Golden Raspberry Awards. And, he gets into some misfires at the Box Office and why they may have choked.
On the eve of the 2020 Oscars, Brayan and a special guest go through their picks for Hollywood's big night!
Brayan Mendoza shares his unfiltered thoughts on the Golden Globe winners! Everything from 1917 becoming the awards juggernaut no-one expected, to Awkwafina making awards history. He also dissects if there's more to 1917 than being a "one shot" wonder, and if "Just Mercy" is a valuable film in the discourse on race.