Series 8, Episode 1 - "It does sound a bit "soap opera" when you put it like that"

The holodeck is officially open as Hit or Miss: Star Trek launches a brand-new season exploring one of the franchise's most beloved—and notoriously unreliable—pieces of technology. Joining the Captain Wilson Command Hologram as the show's newest recurring First Officer is actor, writer and performer Justin Avery Smith, fresh from his acclaimed one-man show Revenge of the Soy Boy, and switching focus back from Wars to Trek. Before stepping into this week's main review, the duo opens hailing frequencies to discuss some of their favourite holodeck stories from across the franchise, while the Hit or Miss segment tackles a selection of memorable holographic outings including a socially prophetic TNG episode, a Voyager holoprogram, a new and unique ship, a beloved main cast member of three Trek series, and a very emotional Star Trek: Voyager story. For the main review, attention turns to Strange New Worlds and the third-season episode A Space Adventure Hour, a loving homage to decades of Star Trek holodeck adventures. The discussion covers the episode's recreation of classic Original Series aesthetics, its surprisingly deep collection of references to Star Trek history and production lore, Jonathan Frakes' direction, the introduction of the holodeck years earlier than previously established canon, and Martin Quinn's continuing performance as Scotty. Along the way the crew examines the episode's central mystery, its use of familiar holodeck malfunction tropes, the effectiveness of its B-plot aboard the Enterprise, the various real-world Star Trek figures hidden within the holographic story, and whether the episode succeeds as a celebration of the franchise or simply recycles ideas Trek has explored before. The conversation also dives into the episode's strongest and most controversial moments, from its heartfelt defence of science fiction and Star Trek's cultural importance to its ongoing handling of Spock's romantic storylines, leading to one of the podcast's most passionate debates of the season so far. Was A Space Adventure Hour an affectionate love letter to Star Trek's past, or a hollow recreation of better stories? Join us as we fire up the recreation room and begin a brand-new season of holographic adventures. Computer, begin program.

Links

Follow Justin at:

justinaverysmith.com

Facebook and Instagram - Justinaverysmith

BlueSky - justinaverysmith@bluesky.social

TikTok - @justaverysmith

YouTube - @JustAVerySmith

Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913

Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson

Co-host - Justin Avery Smith

Created by Michael K. Wilson

Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar

"They wrote themselves into this corner."

Cinema Classics Number 28 — "King Kong could kill us all. You wouldn't care. Publicity's all you want. Publicity."

Welcome back film fans and podcast pals. In this Cinema Classics episode we’re bringing the Simian Squad back together—our unintentionally assembled trio born from past reviews of Planet of the Apes and King Kong, where a shared love of great apes (and great films… mostly) turned into a recurring team-up. Host Michael is joined once again by co-host D.K and returning guest Nita as we head to Japan for the original 1962 clash of cinematic titans, King Kong vs. Godzilla—the battle of the century… but is it actually any good? We start with the unusual origins of the project and the fascinating behind-the-scenes details—from early script ideas and returning creative figures, to suitmation choices, practical effects, and some truly bizarre production decisions. There’s also plenty of talk about the tonal shift this represents for the Godzilla series, moving away from its more serious roots into something far more comedic, chaotic, and deliberately over-the-top... it is deliberate, right? As always, we break things down across the key areas, getting into the writing and what the film is really saying beneath the monster mayhem—touching on its satire of media, corporate greed, and the obsession with spectacle. The direction and performances are put under the microscope, along with the contrast between Kong and Godzilla as characters, the handling of the human cast, and the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of the visual effects and action. We also spend some time comparing the Japanese and U.S. versions, and whether those changes help or hinder the overall experience. So whether you’re here for the monster madness, the oddball humour, or just to see two icons collide, join us as we dig into the spectacle, the silliness, and everything in between—because sometimes, you just want to watch two people in monster suits throw rocks at each other.

Links:

Follow Nita everywhere: @Sci-FiQueens

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Co-hosted and Additional Material by D.K

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Godzilla has disappeared without a trace. As for King Kong, our International Communications Satellite is following him. And strangely enough, we wish him luck on his long, long journey home."

Episode 156 - "Looking upon these creatures, one would not think that they could contain such power. One could rule the universe with it."

As our journey through the fantasy films of the 1980s draws ever closer to its final destination, Silver Screen Podcast ventures deep into the enchanted forests, swirling mist and murky shadows of Ridley Scott’s cult fantasy oddity, Legend (1985). Joining Michael Wilson for this dreamlike adventure are regular co-host D.K., returning guest and filmmaker Michael Whaley, and fellow veteran guest Lady Vean as the panel tackles one of the most visually iconic — and divisive — fantasy films of the decade. Starring a young Tom Cruise, Mia Sara and an unforgettable Tim Curry beneath layers of demonic prosthetics as the Lord of Darkness, Legend remains a film that inspires fascination, nostalgia and confusion in almost equal measure. Across the episode the team explore the movie’s extraordinary production design, Rob Bottin’s remarkable creature effects, Ridley Scott’s obsession with atmosphere over narrative clarity, and the many different cuts and endings that have helped shape the film’s long cult afterlife. Is Legend a genuine fairy tale masterpiece powered by mood, myth and visual storytelling? Or is it a beautiful but underwritten fantasy sketch held together by pure aesthetic magic? The discussion also covers the contrasting Jerry Goldsmith and Tangerine Dream soundtracks, surreal dream logic, the film’s strange pacing and symbolism, memorable creature performances, and whether Scott’s commitment to atmosphere ultimately elevates or undermines the storytelling. Perhaps most importantly, Michael finds himself unexpectedly standing almost alone in defence of the film as the rest of the panel prove far less enchanted by this particular fantasy classic. So join us as winter falls, darkness rises, dresses dance of their own accord and Tim Curry attempts to seduce the entire production from atop an ornate throne. Just whatever you do… don’t touch the unicorn.

Links: ​

Michael Whaley;

• Instagram: @alwaysmichaelwhaley @cmwhaleyphoto

• YouTube: @turnaphrasefilms

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson

Co-hosted and co-written by D.K

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Higher, higher, burning fire, making music like a choir!"

Series 2, Episode 9 " Five million Cybermen, easy. One Doctor? NOW you're scared."

This was an impromptu one, but sometimes those turn out to be the most fun. As our Cybermen season continues, Michael, DK and special guest/editor/story chooser Will Templar take a trip back to one of the biggest, loudest and most emotional finales of the Russell T Davies era as Hit or Miss: Doctor Who tackles the Series 2 crossover event: Army of Ghosts / Doomsday. The Cybermen have crossed over from a parallel world. Torchwood are playing with forces they absolutely should not be. The Daleks are waiting inside the Genesis Ark. And somewhere in the middle of all that chaos, Rose Tyler faces her final journey as the Doctor’s companion. Across the episode we discuss whether this ambitious two-parter actually manages to balance its enormous amount of moving pieces, the now legendary Dalek/Cybermen smack talk, Torchwood’s deeply uncomfortable politics, emotional manipulation versus earned tragedy, Graeme Harper’s direction, Murray Gold’s devastating score, and whether the farewell at Bad Wolf Bay still lands as powerfully twenty years later knowing the wider history of the show. Elsewhere there’s the usual trip Into The Vortex, quick-fire Hit or Miss reviews on stories and characters including Hide, Amy Pond and Lux, behind-the-scenes discussion, favourite moments and lines, production analysis, and a full scoring breakdown as we decide whether this blockbuster finale truly deserves its iconic reputation. So grab your 3D glasses, avoid touching anything brought to you by Daleks, and join us for a true Series 1 and 2 crossover event. Allons-y!

VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO WILL TEMPLAR FOR ALL HIS HELP WITH THIS EPISODE.

Links:

Follow Will on YouTube - @WhoGameshows-o5m

Follow Mike and the podcasts all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913

Hosted and written by Michael Wilson

Co-hosted and additional material by D.K

Hit or Miss section by Will Templar

Producer - Michael K. Wilson

Edited by Will Templar

Created by Michael K. Wilson

Based on a format by Will Templar

"I... I love you."

"Quite right too...And I suppose... if it's my last chance to say it... Rose Tyler......"

D.K's Cult Classics Finale - "Do you hear? The Alpha... and the Omega... death and rebirth... and as you die, so will I be reborn!"

The curtain comes down on Cult Classics for now with a look at 1987's live action toy advert Masters of the Universe. Join DK and guests Michael Wilson and Jason Gaston as they discuss the Dolph Lundgren & Frank Langella sci.fi extravaganza and take a look back at the Cult Classics itself.

Links:

DK:

linktr.ee/DannyKingdom

Jason:

Jason's website: https://jasongaston.net/

YouTube: / @jasonroygaston

Captain's Quadrant: / @captainsquadrant

Talking Tubi: / @talkingtubi

Tiktok: / jasonroygaston

Instagram: / jasonroygaston

Clapper: https://newsclapper.com/jasonroygasto...

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/jasonroygast...

Lemon8: https://v.lemon8-app.com/al/OgUxwxevr

Find the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods Follow DK on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/4upxV

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH61

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, written & hosted by DK.

Produced by DK

Edited by Michael Wilson

Executively Produced by Mike Wilson

Special thanks to Lady Vean and Nick

"Good Journey-"

Episode 154 - "Unless she is stopped, Bavmorda will control the lives of your village, your children, everyone. All creatures of good heart need your help, Willow. The choice is yours."

Welcome back, friends… Our journey through the strange and wonderful world of 1980s fantasy continues and this week we travel to the Nelwyn Valley and beyond as we revisit Willow — the ambitious fantasy adventure from Ron Howard and George Lucas. Host Michael Wilson is joined once again by returning guests Sandy and Michael Whaley for a lively, funny and occasionally divided discussion on one of the most beloved cult fantasy films of the decade — because while there was plenty of admiration around the table for Willow’s charm, imagination and spectacle, not everybody was entirely won over by its quest. From melting trolls and two-headed monsters to pig transformations, fairy dust, chaotic Brownies and groundbreaking morphing effects, we dive deep into the film’s unforgettable visuals, creature work and technical achievements. Along the way we discuss the film’s mythological influences, archetypes, the film’s occasionally uneven pacing, comedy choices, and whether Willow itself sometimes feels like a collection of familiar fantasy ingredients searching for a stronger identity of its own. There’s also plenty of appreciation for the cast — particularly Warwick Davis’ earnest central performance and Val Kilmer’s scene-stealing energy — alongside discussions about James Horner’s huge, bombastic score, the gloriously chaotic final battle, horrifying transformations, Harryhausen-inspired monsters and why Queen Bavmorda perhaps deserved a little more to do. But does Willow truly deserve its enduring cult status? Is it an overlooked fantasy classic elevated by heart, spectacle and imagination — or an uneven adventure that only fully comes alive in its spectacular final act? Well, there are babies, magic wands, trolls, pig monsters and Val Kilmer flirting with literally everyone. What more do you want? So grab your wand, avoid the fairy dust, and whatever you do… don’t volunteer to guard the baby.

Links: ​

Michael Whaley;

• Instagram: @alwaysmichaelwhaley @cmwhaleyphoto

• YouTube: @turnaphrasefilms

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Her name is not Sticks! She's Elora Danan, the future empress of Tir Asleen and the last thing she's gonna want is a hairy chest!"

Silver Screen Rewind - "Death cannot stop true love. All it can do is delay it for a while."

This week on Silver Screen Podcast, we return to one of the very first episodes we ever recorded as part of a special Silver Screen Rewind for our ongoing 80s Fantasy season — our review of the beloved fantasy classic, The Princess Bride. Before revisiting the original discussion featuring host Mike with Andy Kemp and Phil English (formerly of We Pay For Your Floor), we also take some time to pay tribute to director Rob Reiner and his wife Michelle following their recent passing. Joining Mike and DK for this newly recorded opening tribute are Nita, Jenny and Lynn, as we reflect on the impact of Rob’s work, the enduring magic of The Princess Bride, and the comfort and joy these films continue to bring so many people. Then it’s back to where it all began, as we revisit one of our earliest ever reviews — full of quotable dialogue, giant rodents, revenge, romance, sword fights and one of the most endlessly charming fantasy adventures ever put to film. Missing out would be inconceivable!

Links:

The Princess Bride: Home Movie (full) - https://youtu.be/lR8pA_WV9QI

Pingu's The Thing aka Thingu - https://youtu.be/5g2LaMuS0mk

We Pay For Your Floor Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgfi5QgJ3UprVypcIlO94AA https://open.spotify.com/show/1rZOY3wA4hFdhvcYFs6jqf?si=OAaG95ZfR6eqGJcenArGWA&utm_source=copy-link

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Additional Material by D.K, Nita Flores, Lynn McKinnon & Jenny Duncan.

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"As you wish."

Cinema Classics Number 27 - "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse."

Come in, come in… you come to us on the day of our podcast and ask us to talk about one of the most legendary films ever made? Well… we won’t refuse. This week on Cinema Classics, we’re making an offer you can’t refuse as we sit down with The Godfather—Francis Ford Coppola’s towering crime epic that redefined the gangster genre and cemented its place in cinematic history. Joining Podfather Don Michael Wilseone for this one is a trio of back up. We have trusted consigliere Sandy, frequent guest Tobi (who definitely wasn’t strong-armed into watching this… honest), and an unexpected return from underboss D.K.—because once you’re in, you’re in. Together, we dive into the rise of the Corleone family, exploring the transformation of Michael Corleone from reluctant outsider to ruthless leader, and asking the big question: is this really a story about crime… or is it something far more personal? We break down Michael’s chilling character arc and the slow loss of his soul, the film’s central tension between business and family—and how it blurs the line between the two. We also examine Coppola’s masterful direction, from shadowy interiors to operatic violence, and iconic performances from Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and the rest of an all-time great ensemble. We also revisit the unforgettable moments that define the film—from brutal street hits to that haunting final door close Plus, we dig into behind-the-scenes drama, surprising production stories, and the cultural impact of a film that didn’t just depict organised crime—it reshaped how the world saw it. But it’s not all unquestioned praise. We also get into where the film doesn’t quite work for us, from its treatment of female characters to the sheer sprawl of its narrative—and whether it truly deserves its reputation as one of the greatest films ever made. With standout moments, favourite lines (yes, the cannoli makes an appearance), and our final scores on the table, this is a deep dive you won’t want to miss. So settle in, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer… And remember: you can do anything—but never go against the family.

Links:

Follow Tobi on BlueSky: darksonic@bsky.social

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Co-hosted and Additional Material by D.K

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Look how they massacred my boy!"