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Dive beneath the waves into secrets, evolution, rebellion and survival. In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean is joined by science fiction author David Deane Haskell to discuss The Solarian Deep, the first novel in his planned Techno-Quatic series. What begins as a journey into an unfamiliar underwater world soon becomes a fast-moving exploration of mystery, transformation, power, evolution and the societies we build around ourselves. Sean shares his honest reading experience, explaining how, once the world and characters clicked into place, he found himself racing through the book and finishing its final sections in a single extended reading session. The Solarian Deep is a science fiction novel set in the distant future, where evolutionary forces, underwater societies and hidden secrets collide. The episode explores the book's mysterious "Great Dying", the controlled society of the Shallows, social hierarchy, political power, rebellion and the tension between conformity and transformation. David also discusses his approach to science fiction world-building and why he prefers stories that allow readers to discover a world rather than having every mystery immediately explained. The conversation moves through the challenges of creating believable characters, writing morally complex people, and balancing technology and world-building with an engaging story. Sean and David also discuss whether The Solarian Deep could work as a film or television adaptation, with comparisons to science fiction and speculative fiction including Star Wars, Alien, The Andromeda Strain, The Martian, Project Hail Mary, WALL-E, Children of Men, 1984 and more. The conversation also explores David's writing journey, including his earlier fiction, a period of writer's block, and how personal growth and greater empathy have influenced the characters and relationships in his more recent work. David reveals that the Techno-Quatic story is planned as a trilogy and discusses other books from his catalogue, including Dark Alignment, Too Much Information and his nonfiction book Wounded Angels. He also talks about his forthcoming novel, The Vibrance, which he describes as the best work he has written so far. If you enjoy science fiction books, underwater worlds, dystopian fiction, cyberpunk, speculative fiction, complex world-building, character-driven stories or discussions about books becoming films, this is an episode for you. Find David Deane HaskellWebsite and contact: David Deane Haskell | Stories of control, truth, and consequence Visit David's website to find The Solarian Deep, his other books, contact information and links to his social media. Important: Make sure to search for David Deane Haskell, including the middle name Deane, to find the correct author. Follow Review It YourselfFor more honest reviews, book discussions, film conversations, interviews and plenty of unexpected tangents, follow Review It Yourself: Instagram: Review It Yourself on Instagram X / Twitter: Review It Yourself on X / Twitter BlueSky: Review It Yourself on BlueSky Threads: Review It Yourself on Threads Cinova App: Find @reviewityourself on the Cinova App and join the conversation by rating and reviewing films. Email: [email protected] Support Review It YourselfIf you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting Review It Yourself by: Following or subscribing wherever you listen to podcastsLeaving a rating and review on Apple PodcastsSharing this episode with a friend who loves science fiction or booksFollowing Review It Yourself on social mediaJoining the conversation and sharing your own opinions on the books and films discussedEvery follow, rating, review and share helps more people discover the podcast. Have you read The Solarian Deep? What do you think? Would David Dean Haskell's underwater science fiction world make a great film or television series? Get in touch and let Review It Yourself know. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the forgotten White Star liner that connects directly to Titanic. What if there was a White Star Line ship that helped shape the story of Titanic, yet remains largely overlooked? In this episode of Review It Yourself, historian and author Mark Chirnside returns to discuss his book Oceanic: White Star Line’s Ship of the Century and the fascinating history of one of the most important—and ultimately short-lived—liners of the pre-Titanic era. If you love Titanic history, White Star Line, ocean liners, maritime history, shipbuilding, passenger travel, or historical books, this episode offers plenty to discover. About OceanicMark Chirnside explains why Oceanic was so significant to the White Star Line and why the ship deserves to be considered in its own right rather than simply as another link in the Titanic story. Oceanic was launched in January 1899, with her main voyage taking place later that year. Rather than concentrating solely on winning speed records, White Star Line increasingly focused on size, comfort, reliability and passenger experience. The episode explores how this approach helped establish a pattern that would later be seen in the Olympic-class liners, including Olympic, Titanic and Britannic. What We DiscussAmong the subjects covered in this episode: The history and significance of the White Star Line’s OceanicWhy Oceanic was such an important ship for the companyThe competition between White Star Line, Cunard and German shipping linesWhy speed records were becoming less commercially importantOceanic’s emphasis on comfort, reliability and passenger accommodationThe development of first-, second- and third-class accommodationThe engineering and design of OceanicLongitudinal bulkheads and why they were not carried forward to Olympic, Titanic and BritannicOceanic’s launch and the unusual sight of her propellers turning during launchThe extensive collection of photographs and illustrations in Mark’s bookRare and previously unused historical imagesCaptain Cameron and why Captain Edward Smith did not command Oceanic Why This Book Is Worth ReadingOne of the strengths highlighted during the discussion is that Oceanic: White Star Line’s Ship of the Century is more than a collection of technical information or photographs. Mark combines shipbuilding, engineering, business, passenger experience, social history and maritime events to tell the story of Oceanic across her career. The book also makes extensive use of photographs, with detailed captions that encourage the reader to look closely at the people, machinery, accommodation and construction details visible in each image. For Titanic enthusiasts, the book provides valuable broader historical context—showing the development of White Star Line and the technological and commercial decisions that eventually led towards the Olympic-class ships. About Mark ChirnsideMark Chirnside is a historian and author specialising in ocean liners and maritime history. His work covers subjects including White Star Line, Olympic, Titanic and other major passenger ships. Mark's website includes his books, research, blog articles, media appearances and presentations, as well as additional information about Oceanic: White Star Line’s Ship of the Century. Website: https://markchirnside.co.uk/ The website is also a useful place to discover Mark's latest research and articles, with the opportunity to sign up for updates about new material. Follow Review It YourselfEnjoyed the episode? Follow Review It Yourself so you don't miss future film reviews, book discussions and history-focused episodes. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 Cinova App: @reviewityourself Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Review It Yourself celebrates five years of the podcast with a proper reunion as Sean and Sarah finally find themselves recording in the same room — and, naturally, the conversation quickly goes everywhere. This time, they’re reviewing Gladiator II (2024), Ridley Scott’s long-awaited sequel to the Oscar-winning Gladiator. Starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen and Joseph Quinn, the film takes us back to Ancient Rome, the Colosseum and the brutal world of gladiatorial combat. But is Gladiator II simply a sequel trading on the legacy of the original, or does it actually have something of its own to say? Sean and Sarah get properly stuck into what works — and what doesn’t — including the film’s ensemble cast, pacing, action sequences, political intrigue, performances, production design, music and connection to the original Gladiator. They discuss Paul Mescal’s Lucius, Pedro Pascal’s battle-weary Roman general Acacius, Connie Nielsen’s return as Lucilla and Denzel Washington’s scene-stealing performance as Macrinus. There’s also plenty of appreciation for the supporting cast, with the pair arguing that the film works particularly well when viewed as an ensemble rather than simply as a Paul Mescal vehicle. The conversation also explores the film’s depiction of power in Ancient Rome, the role of the Praetorian Guard, the use of the Colosseum as political theatre, and how the increasingly spectacular gladiatorial games become another weapon in the struggle for control. And then there’s the action. From gladiatorial battles and spectacular set pieces to the film’s surprisingly effective pacing, Sean and Sarah look at why a 142-minute historical epic manages to feel considerably shorter than some much less ambitious films. They also get into the things that took them out of the experience — including the marketing and trailer, and a few moments that invite the inevitable question: what exactly were they thinking? There’s plenty of discussion about the relationship between Gladiator II and the original 2000 film, including the returning characters, the way the sequel connects to its predecessor and whether the call-backs feel natural or forced. And, because this is Review It Yourself, the discussion inevitably goes off on several tangents along the way. Expect Gladiator II spoilers, film trivia, disagreements, laughs, random faff and a few detours that have absolutely nothing to do with Ancient Rome. Most importantly, this episode marks five years of Review It Yourself — five years of film reviews, arguments, tangents, questionable opinions and Sean and Sarah talking about the films they love, hate and everything in between. If you enjoy honest, conversational film reviews and movie podcasts, follow Review It Yourself wherever you listen to podcasts, and help us keep the faff going. You can support the podcast by following the show, listening to episodes, sharing episodes with other film fans, and rating or reviewing us on your podcast platform. You can also find us on Cinova and rate your favourite films there. Follow Review It YourselfInstagram: @reviewityourselfpodcast2021 X / Twitter: @YourselfReview BlueSky: @reviewityourself.bsky.social Threads: @reviewityourselfpodcast2021 Cinova App: @reviewityourself Email: [email protected] What did you think of Gladiator II? Did it live up to the legacy of the original, or did you go into the arena expecting something different? Listen to the episode, join the conversation and let us know what you think. And Thank You for five years of Review It Yourself. Here's to many more years of films, faff and completely unnecessary tangents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was Sink the Bismarck! one of Britain's most accurate war films? What happens when one of the most famous naval engagements of the Second World War becomes a 1960 British classic? In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean dives into Sink the Bismarck! with returning guest Richard M. Jones, author, historian, researcher and lifelong enthusiast of shipwrecks and maritime history. Rather than simply reviewing the film, this conversation explores why Sink the Bismarck! remains such an interesting and surprisingly restrained Second World War film. Richard brings his extensive knowledge of naval history to the discussion, examining what the film gets right, where Hollywood takes liberties, and why its portrayal of the Battle of the Denmark Strait and the hunt for the Bismarck still works more than six decades later. At the heart of the discussion is the film's unusual approach. Instead of concentrating solely on spectacular battles and life aboard the warships, Sink the Bismarck! spends considerable time with the people making decisions behind the scenes. Kenneth More's fictional character, Commander Shepherd, becomes the centre of a story about leadership, pressure, responsibility and the human cost of warfare. We also look at the film's portrayal of the HMS Hood, HMS Prince of Wales, Bismarck, Ark Royal and the wider British response to the German battleship's Atlantic sortie. The conversation considers the Battle of the Denmark Strait, the destruction of Hood, the eventual tracking and sinking of Bismarck, and the role of intelligence, reconnaissance and communications in the pursuit. Richard explains why the film's historical accuracy makes it stand out, while also identifying some of its notable departures from reality — including the mysterious fictional ship Solent. We discuss how the real Bismarck story compares with its cinematic depiction and why the filmmakers' decision not to turn the ending into a simple moment of triumph actually gives the film much of its power. The episode also takes us beneath the surface of the film and into Richard's own fascination with Bismarck. He explains how discovering Robert Ballard's Exploring the Bismarck as a young reader helped fuel his interest in the battleship, eventually leading to a lifelong passion for maritime history, shipwrecks, writing and research. About Richard M. JonesRichard M. Jones is an author, historian and researcher specialising in shipwrecks, shipping, military history and forgotten disasters. His interest in maritime history began at a young age and has developed into decades of research, writing, archive work and memorial campaigns. Richard's official website features information about his books, research, talks and presentations, as well as his extensive shipwreck archive. He also offers talks for societies, schools and other groups. Contact Richard: Email: [email protected] Richard M. Jones — official website The website also provides a contact form and information for media, podcast, presentation and research enquiries. Follow Review It YourselfIf you enjoy film reviews that go beyond the usual ratings and look at the history, context, accuracy and stories behind the films, make sure you follow Review It Yourself. 📸 Instagram: @reviewityourselfpodcast2021 on Instagram 🐦 X / Twitter: @YourselfReview on X / Twitter 🦋 BlueSky: Review It Yourself on BlueSky 🧵 Threads: @reviewityourselfpodcast2021 on Threads 📱 Cinova: @reviewityourself 📧 Email: [email protected] Support Review It YourselfIf you've enjoyed this episode, the best way to support Review It Yourself is simple: listen, follow, subscribe, rate, review and share the podcast with someone who loves films, history or both. Listen to the episode, revisit the film, and Review It Yourself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most divisive vampire films finally gets a fair defence. Is Queen of the Damned (2002) really one of the most unfairly criticised vampire films of the 2000s? In this special Defend It Yourself episode of Review It Yourself, host Sean is joined by co-host Sarah to make the case for the much-maligned adaptation of Anne Rice's vampire universe. Rather than piling on the criticism, Sean and Sarah revisit Queen of the Damned with fresh eyes, discussing why its ambition, gothic style, unforgettable soundtrack and early-2000s aesthetic have earned it a loyal cult following. They explore how the film compares with other vampire favourites including Blade, The Crow and Interview with the Vampire, while examining why a film doesn't have to be perfect to be entertaining. Expect a lively discussion covering the film's strengths, its flaws, Anne Rice's influence, vampire mythology, the performances, the rock-and-roll take on Lestat, and why taking creative risks sometimes makes for a far more memorable movie than playing it safe. Whether you're a lifelong fan, a curious horror lover, or someone who dismissed Queen of the Damned years ago, this episode might just convince you to give it another chance. In this episode: Why Queen of the Damned deserves a second lookSean and Sarah defend one of their favourite guilty pleasuresComparing Queen of the Damned with Blade, The Crow and Interview with the VampireAnne Rice's vampire legacy and gothic storytellingThe film's iconic soundtrack and early-2000s styleWhy ambitious films can be more enjoyable than "safe" onesCult movies, vampire cinema and horror nostalgia If you enjoy honest film discussions without unnecessary waffle, subscribe to Review It Yourself, leave a rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share the episode with fellow film fans. Every review helps more listeners discover the show. Follow Review It Yourself Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: [email protected] Support the Podcast The best way to support Review It Yourself is to: Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Leave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts.Rate and comment on Spotify.Share your favourite episodes on social media.Recommend the podcast to friends who love films, horror and cult cinema. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Before the beast awakens, discover why this divisive horror remake deserves discussion. Sean is joined by returning co-host Sarah for an in-depth review of The Wolfman Extended Cut (2010), starring Benicio del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, Emily Blunt and Hugo Weaving. While the film was heavily criticised on release and struggled at the box office, does the extended cut reveal an underrated Gothic horror, or is it still a missed opportunity? The conversation explores the film's haunting Victorian atmosphere, practical effects, brutal werewolf action, performances, Gothic influences, emotional storytelling, and how it compares with both the classic Universal monster movies and other werewolf favourites such as An American Werewolf in London. Sean and Sarah don't entirely agree this time, leading to one of the podcast's most interesting debates as they examine what works, what doesn't, and whether this overlooked remake deserves another chance. If you're a fan of The Wolfman (2010), werewolf films, Universal Monsters, Gothic horror, horror remakes, Benicio del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, or in-depth film review podcasts, this episode is for you. In this episode: The Wolfman Extended Cut (2010) reviewDifferences between the theatrical and extended versionsBenicio del Toro and Anthony Hopkins' performancesGothic horror atmosphere and production designPractical effects, CGI and werewolf transformationsThemes of family trauma, fate and the monster withinHow it compares with classic Universal horror and modern werewolf filmsSean and Sarah's final verdicts Follow Review It Yourself Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: [email protected] Support the podcast If you enjoy Review It Yourself, please: Follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating on Apple Podcasts.Rate and comment on Spotify.Leave a review on Goodpods.Share this episode with a fellow film fan—it's one of the best ways to help the podcast grow. Review It Yourself – Film Reviews Without the Faff. Honest, entertaining and spoiler-filled discussions covering classic films, cult favourites, blockbusters and hidden gems. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Honour, sacrifice, and unforgettable battles—does The Last Samurai deserve modern masterpiece status? Sean is joined by returning co-host Sarah to take a deep dive into The Last Samurai (2003), the sweeping historical epic directed by Edward Zwick and starring Tom Cruise, Ken Watanabe, and Timothy Spall. More than two decades after its release, does this ambitious blend of action, history, philosophy, and emotional storytelling still stand among the greatest historical dramas ever made? From Hans Zimmer's soaring score and breath-taking cinematography to unforgettable performances and emotionally devastating moments, Sean and Sarah explore why The Last Samurai continues to inspire passionate debate. They discuss Tom Cruise's much-criticised casting, the film's portrayal of the samurai tradition, the balance between historical fact and Hollywood storytelling, and why Ken Watanabe's Oscar-nominated performance remains one of the film's greatest strengths. Expect thoughtful analysis, plenty of laughs, spoiler-filled discussion, and a passionate defence of a film that many believe deserves far more recognition than it receives. In this episode: Is The Last Samurai one of Tom Cruise's finest performances?Why Ken Watanabe steals nearly every scene.The film's themes of honour, identity, redemption, and cultural change.Hans Zimmer's unforgettable musical score.Historical accuracy versus cinematic storytelling.Favourite scenes, emotional moments, and standout performances.Final ratings and whether this modern epic still holds up today. If you enjoy in-depth movie reviews, film analysis, classic cinema discussions, and conversations about the biggest films in movie history, subscribe to Review It Yourself – Film Reviews Without the Faff for new episodes. Follow Review It YourselfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: [email protected] the podcastIf you enjoy the show, the best way to support Review It Yourself is to: Follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast app.Leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Share this episode with friends and fellow film fans.Recommend a film you'd like Sean and the team to review in a future episode by getting in touch on social media or via email. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We wanted to love Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein—here's why we didn't. Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein (2025) has been one of the most anticipated horror films in years—but did it live up to the hype? Join Sean and Sarah as they dive deep into this bold adaptation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, exploring its stunning visuals, performances, themes, and where they believe the film ultimately falls short. Despite impressive production values, practical effects, and an emotionally compelling performance from the Creature, this adaptation left us wanting more. We discuss whether the film captures the heart of Shelley's novel, if Oscar Isaac's Victor Frankenstein works, how Jacob Elordi fares as the Creature, and why Guillermo Del Toro's storytelling choices may divide audiences. Expect an honest, spoiler-filled conversation covering the film's pacing, adaptation choices, character motivations, body horror, gothic atmosphere, and whether this version deserves its growing reputation among horror fans. In this episode:Our spoiler review of Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein (2025)How faithfully it adapts Mary Shelley's classic novelOscar Isaac's portrayal of Victor FrankensteinJacob Elordi's performance as the CreatureThe film's visuals, practical effects and gothic horror aestheticWhy we think the Creature's story is the strongest part of the filmThe pacing, runtime and storytelling choicesWhether this adaptation improves upon classic Frankenstein filmsOur final verdict and rating Whether you're a lifelong fan of Frankenstein, a lover of gothic horror, or simply curious about Guillermo Del Toro's latest film, this episode offers an in-depth discussion packed with analysis, criticism, and appreciation for one of horror's most enduring stories. If you enjoy the episode, please follow, subscribe, and leave a 5-star rating and review wherever you listen. It really helps more people discover Review It Yourself and supports the podcast. Follow Review It Yourself📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 🐦 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview 🦋 BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 📧 Email: [email protected] Support the PodcastThe best way to support Review It Yourself is to: Follow the podcast on your favourite podcast app.Leave a rating and written review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Share this episode with fellow film and horror fans.Join the conversation on social media and let us know your thoughts on Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein (2025). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From classic werewolves to Dancing Wolfeman—Rick London reveals all in this interview. What happens when classic werewolf mythology meets dancing, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling? In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean is joined by author Rick London (Ricardo Cotto) to discuss his entertaining novel The Dancing Wolfeman: Volume One, the enduring appeal of werewolf fiction, and why monster stories continue to capture readers' imaginations. From classic Universal monsters to modern werewolf films, Rick shares the inspiration behind his unique Wolfeman character, his writing journey, and the importance of creating stories that entertain while remaining accessible to readers of all ages. The conversation also explores favourite werewolf movies, practical effects in horror cinema, publishing, book marketing, and why reviews matter so much for independent authors. Whether you're a fan of werewolf books, horror films, monster fiction, or simply enjoy hearing authors discuss their creative process, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and plenty of laughs. In this episode:The inspiration behind The Dancing WolfemanRick London's lifelong love of storytellingWhy werewolves remain one of horror's most enduring monstersFavourite werewolf movies and classic monster cinemaWriting memorable characters and accessible fictionIndependent publishing and reaching new readersWhy reader reviews make such a huge difference for authorsSean's recommendations for essential werewolf films—including Dog Soldiers and An American Werewolf in London. About Rick LondonRick London (Ricardo Cotto) is the author of The Dancing Wolfeman series, blending humour, adventure and classic monster storytelling into an original family-friendly horror experience. Find Rick London online: Website: https://dancingwolfeman.com/Book: The Dancing Wolfeman: Volume One (available through Amazon and major online book retailers) Follow Review It YourselfIf you enjoy honest reviews, interviews with authors and filmmakers, horror, cult cinema, books and pop culture discussions, make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 Email: [email protected] Support the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, here are the ways to support Review It Yourself: Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform.Leave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Share this episode with fellow horror fans, book lovers and werewolf enthusiasts.Recommend the podcast on social media to help more listeners discover independent creators. Every rating, review and share genuinely helps the podcast reach a wider audience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does Daredevil's Director's Cut redeem one of Marvel's most divisive superhero movies? In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean is joined by Stew from Stew World Order to revisit Ben Affleck's take on Marvel's Man Without Fear and find out whether this early superhero film deserves a second chance. We discuss the differences between the Director's Cut and the theatrical release, Michael Clarke Duncan's unforgettable Kingpin, Colin Farrell's wonderfully unhinged Bullseye, Jennifer Garner's Elektra, and whether this darker version improves on the original. We also explore Daredevil's place in the history of Marvel movies before the MCU, how it compares with modern comic book adaptations, and whether nostalgia has changed the way audiences view it over twenty years later. If you've ever wondered whether Daredevil (2003) is an underrated superhero movie, a misunderstood cult favourite, or simply a relic of early 2000s comic book cinema, this episode has you covered. In this episode, we discuss: Daredevil (2003) Director's Cut vs theatrical versionBen Affleck as Matt Murdock/DaredevilMarvel films before the MCUMichael Clarke Duncan's KingpinColin Farrell's Bullseye performanceJennifer Garner's ElektraEarly 2000s superhero movie trendsComic book movie nostalgiaDoes Daredevil deserve a reappraisal? If you enjoy honest film reviews without the faff, subscribe to Review It Yourself and never miss an episode. Follow Review It Yourself: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: [email protected] Support the podcast If you enjoy the show, the best way to support Review It Yourself is to: Follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Leave a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Share your favourite episodes with friends and fellow film fans.Recommend guests, films, or TV shows you'd like us to review by getting in touch via social media or email. Thanks for listening to Review It Yourself – Film Reviews Without the Faff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can reading minds really save a relationship, or destroy one forever? In this episode of Review It Yourself, we’re joined by Lou from Pods Like Us to revisit the 2000 romantic fantasy comedy What Women Want, starring Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt. More than two decades after its release, does this blockbuster still entertain, or have changing attitudes left it feeling like a relic of its time? We dive into the film’s unique premise, memorable performances, standout supporting cast, comedy, romance and the themes that made it one of the biggest hits of its era. Along the way, we discuss whether What Women Want still works for modern audiences, how it compares with other romantic comedies of the early 2000s, and why it continues to spark conversation years later. Whether you're a lifelong fan, discovering the film for the first time, or simply love movie reviews and film discussion podcasts, this episode has plenty to enjoy. In this episode we discuss: -What Women Want (2000) retrospective review -Mel Gibson and Helen Hunt's performances -The film's supporting cast and memorable characters -Comedy versus romance – does the balance still work? -How well the film has aged -Themes, humour and changing audience expectations -Final ratings and recommendations If you enjoy honest, entertaining film reviews with plenty of discussion and humour, be sure to subscribe to Review It Yourself so you never miss an episode. Follow Review It Yourself: -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 -X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview -BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social -Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 -Email: [email protected] Support the podcast: If you enjoy the show, the best way to support Review It Yourself is by subscribing, leaving a 5-star rating and review on your favourite podcast app, sharing episodes with fellow film fans, and recommending the podcast on social media. Every review, rating and recommendation helps more listeners discover the show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How historically accurate is Cromwell (1970)? A historian gives the definitive verdict. Step into the English Civil War with historian Dr. Erica Canela as she joins Sean of Review It Yourself to explore the 1970 historical epic Cromwell, starring Richard Harris as Oliver Cromwell and Alec Guinness as King Charles I. Is Cromwell (1970) an overlooked classic, or does it sacrifice history for Hollywood? We dive into the film's historical accuracy, the real political and religious tensions of 17th-century England, the performances, the battle scenes, and why this ambitious historical drama still sparks debate more than 50 years after its release. Whether you're fascinated by British history, historical films, Oliver Cromwell, the English Civil War, or simply enjoy discovering forgotten cinema, this episode offers an entertaining discussion packed with insight, humour, and plenty of historical tangents. In this episode:A review of Cromwell (1970)Richard Harris as Oliver CromwellAlec Guinness as King Charles IHow historically accurate is Cromwell?The English Civil War explained through cinemaPolitics, religion and power in 17th-century EnglandWhy the film deserves another lookHistorical context from Dr. Erica CanelaFavourite performances, memorable scenes and lasting legacyPlenty of lively conversation and unexpected detoursIf you enjoy film reviews with expert guests, historical analysis, classic cinema, and relaxed conversations, subscribe to Review It Yourself on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Leaving a five-star review helps more people discover the show. Follow Review It YourselfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: [email protected] the podcastIf you enjoy the show, the best ways to support Review It Yourself are: Follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.Leave a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Share your favourite episodes with friends, family, and fellow film fans.Recommend the podcast on social media to help more listeners discover it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the hilarious gender-swap comedy critics dismissed but audiences enjoyed. In this episode of Review It Yourself, host Sean welcomes back Lou from Pods Like Us for a lively discussion about the 2026 Netflix comedy Ladies First, starring Sacha Baron Cohen. Three years after their last recording together, Sean and Lou reunite to review a film that flips traditional gender roles on their head. Inspired by the French comedy I Am Not an Easy Man, Ladies First explores what happens when a misogynist wakes up in a world where gender expectations are completely reversed. The conversation compares Ladies First to classic British romantic comedies including Bridget Jones, Sliding Doors, and Bend It Like Beckham, while also revisiting themes discussed in their previously lost review of What Women Want. Is this gender-swap comedy simply a light-hearted romp, or does it have something meaningful to say about modern relationships, equality, and how we treat one another? Sean and Lou discuss: 🎬 Ladies First (2026) review and analysis 🎬 Sacha Baron Cohen's performance as Damien 🎬 Gender role reversal in film and comedy 🎬 Comparisons with What Women Want and classic rom-coms 🎬 Whether modern films handle gender politics effectively 🎬 Why some critics may have missed the point 🎬 The film's surprisingly thoughtful ending 🎬 Why shorter, character-driven comedies deserve a comeback If you enjoy film reviews, comedy movie discussions, Netflix reviews, rom-com analysis, movie podcasts, and entertaining conversations about cinema, this episode is for you. About Our Guest: Louise's partner Martin hosts a podcast. Pods Like Us is hosted by Martin "Marv" Quibell and features conversations with podcasters and content creators from across the podcasting world. 🎙️ Pods Like Us Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pods-like-us/id1534984629 🌐 Website: https://themarvzone.org Follow Review It Yourself 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 🐦 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview 🦋 BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 📧 Email: [email protected] Support The Podcast If you enjoy Review It Yourself, please: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts ⭐ Rate the show on Spotify ⭐ Follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast app ⭐ Share this episode with fellow film lovers ⭐ Recommend the podcast on social media Every review, rating, and recommendation helps more listeners discover the show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Shrek remains the funniest and most heartfelt fairy tale. In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean and Sarah are joined by Luke from The Howdy Beans Podcast to revisit the animated classic that changed fairy tales forever: Shrek (2001). Twenty Five years after its release, Shrek remains one of the most influential animated films ever made. Packed with unforgettable characters, sharp comedy, emotional depth, and a soundtrack that became iconic, DreamWorks' green ogre continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Together, Sean, Sarah, and Luke explore what makes Shrek such an enduring classic. From Mike Myers' legendary performance and Eddie Murphy's scene-stealing Donkey to the film's clever subversion of traditional fairy tale tropes, this conversation covers everything that helped Shrek become a cultural phenomenon. The discussion also dives into the film's surprisingly emotional themes, including friendship, acceptance, self-worth, prejudice, and finding people who truly see you for who you are. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, personal memories, favourite moments, and reflections on why Shrek still works so well more than two decades later. Whether you grew up watching Shrek on rainy school days or are discovering it for the first time, this episode celebrates one of the greatest animated movies ever made. In This EpisodeWhy Shrek revolutionised animated filmmakingThe genius of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron DiazFairy tale satire done rightFriendship and acceptance as core themesWhy Donkey remains one of animation's greatest sidekicksThe emotional depth hidden beneath the comedyFavourite scenes, quotes, and momentsHow Shrek continues to connect with audiences todayAbout Our GuestLuke is the host of The Howdy Beans Podcast, where he explores movies, books, video games, and overlooked gems that deserve more attention. If you enjoy discovering unusual, underrated, and fascinating entertainment, be sure to check out his show. Follow The Howdy Beans PodcastYouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, TikTok and Instagram: Search: The Howdy Beans Podcast Listen If You EnjoyShrekDreamWorks AnimationAnimated movie reviewsFamily filmsFairy tale adaptationsMovie podcastsComedy filmsNostalgia discussionsFilm analysisPop culture podcastsFollow Review It YourselfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 Email: [email protected] Support The PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating on Spotify ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ⭐ Follow and subscribe wherever you listen ⭐ Share the episode with fellow movie fans ⭐ Recommend Review It Yourself to friends and family Your support helps more listeners discover independent film discussion and keeps the podcast growing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Epic Battles, Betrayal, and One of Cinema’s Most Powerful Endings! In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean and Sarah tackle one of the greatest historical epics ever made: Spartacus (1960). What begins as a discussion of Roman slavery, gladiatorial combat, and rebellion quickly becomes an emotional deep dive into a film that still packs a punch more than six decades later. Sarah discovers that she may never have actually seen the ending of Spartacus, leading to genuine shock as the hosts unpack the devastating final act, the famous “I’m Spartacus” moment, and why this classic remains one of the most influential films in cinema history. Sean and Sarah explore the film’s incredible cast, including Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Peter Ustinov, Charles Laughton, Jean Simmons, and Tony Curtis. They also discuss Stanley Kubrick’s direction, the film’s Academy Award success, the realities of Roman history, and how Spartacus helped redefine the Hollywood epic. Whether you're a fan of classic films, historical dramas, sword-and-sandal adventures, or simply want to revisit one of the greatest movies ever made, this is an episode you won't want to miss. In This EpisodeReviewing Spartacus (1960)Sarah's reaction to the film's tragic endingThe historical Spartacus and the Third Servile WarKirk Douglas and Stanley Kubrick's legendary collaborationThe iconic "I'm Spartacus" sceneRoman slavery, gladiator schools, and rebellionPeter Ustinov's Oscar-winning performanceThe film's lasting influence on cinemaWhy Spartacus remains essential viewing today About Spartacus (1960)Released in 1960 and directed by Stanley Kubrick, Spartacus stars Kirk Douglas as the Thracian slave who leads a massive revolt against the Roman Republic. The film won four Academy Awards and remains one of the defining historical epics of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Follow Review It Yourself📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021 🐦 X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview 🦋 BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021 📧 Email: [email protected] Support the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, please: Follow the podcast on your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyShare the episode with fellow film fansFollow us on social media for updates and new releasesYour support helps more listeners discover the show and keeps independent podcasting alive. Listen If You EnjoyClassic CinemaHistorical MoviesStanley Kubrick FilmsKirk Douglas MoviesRoman HistoryGladiator FilmsFilm ReviewsMovie Discussion PodcastsHollywood ClassicsAcademy Award-Winning Films Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.