
AKAPAD the FILM BUFF Podcast
By AKAPAD


The Accountant 2 (2025) Review
The Film Buff explores the evolution of sequels, franchises, and the rise of the term "IP" in modern cinema, offering context for what makes The Accountant 2 stand out. Far from a typical action sequel, the film shines through its rich, character-driven moments, particularly the compelling dynamic between Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal. Their nuanced performances elevate the narrative, creating a sequel that prioritizes emotional depth and human connection over conventional action tropes, setting a new standard for the genre.

STRAW (2025) Review - A Netflix Oscar Contender
Netflix has a strong Oscar contender in Tyler Perry's Straw

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023) - REVIEW
Tonight, AKAPAD The Film Buff delves into one of the greatest film prequels ever made. In this episode, he critically examines Rachel Zegler's standout performance and explores why director Francis Lawrence's work marks a defining moment in his career.

YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS - REVIEW
AKAPAD The Film Buff is seizing this opportunity to not only recommend Apple TV+'s Your Friends and Neighbors but also to tackle a broader issue in the entertainment industry: typecasting.

The Accountant (2016) - Review
In 2016, an unexpected gem emerged as one of the greatest modern action films. Its surprising rise makes it not only significant but also pivotal in understanding the evolving landscape of storytelling. Notably, this was not the Ben Affleck film that dominated headlines that year.

Sinners (2025) Review - great but over hyped
Sinners, a $100 million film that seemingly emerged out of nowhere, has sparked a wave of excitement in a filmgoing world craving something fresh. With this in mind, AKAPAD The Film Buff asks: Did this movie live up to the hype that captivated even the most jaded critics?

LILO & STITCH 2: STITCH HAS A GLITCH (2005)
In 2005, Disney was in the midst of its direct-to-VHS era, a time when nearly every animated franchise received a sequel—some even spawning trilogies with two follow-ups. Among this wave of releases, Lilo & Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch stands out as a shining gem, according to The Film Buff. However, this doesn’t mean he’s finished exploring this era of oft-maligned films or the Lilo & Stitch franchise itself.

Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol - it's a director series
Tonight, The Film Buff continues his in-depth exploration of the Mission: Impossible series with a discussion of its fourth installment, Ghost Protocol. This film marked a pivotal moment, surpassing Alien as the definitive director-driven franchise in Hollywood.

Preadtor: Killer of Killers (2025)
This Animation Weekend, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into Hulu's latest feature, the animated Prey: Hunter of Hunters, an unheralded prologue to the upcoming Predator: Badlands.

A HARD PLACE (2025)
Happy TGIF, Film Buffs! Every Friday, we spotlight independent cinema on the show, and this week, we're thrilled to dive into J. Horton's latest genre-bending masterpiece, A Hard Place. Before joining AKAPAD for our discussion, grab your copy of this thrilling film on digital platforms like Apple TV or Prime Video, where it’s available to rent or own since its VOD release on May 27, 2025. Watch it, soak in the monster-fueled chaos, and come back ready to share your thoughts
Those who brought us The Hard Place
Cast
Felissa Rose as Henrietta
Lynn Lowry as Zenia
Rachel Amanda Bryant as Fish
Kevin Caliber as Hurt
Ashley Undercuffler as Naja
Jennifer Michelle Stone II as Candy
Scott Alan Ward as White
Glenn Plummer as Dutton
Sadie Katz as Barbara Brandt
Bai Ling as Zuri
Miranda Bourke as Sylvian
Steven Morris as Steve
John Charles Dickson as Jonas
Michael Lawrence as Mike Lawernce
Angel Nichole Bradford as Odie
Natalia Santacoloma
Crew
Director: J. Horton
Writers: J. Horton, Michael J. Epstein
Cinematographer: Not explicitly listed in provided sources
Makeup and Effects: Not explicitly named, but noted for practical effects and creature design
Production Companies: Not explicitly listed in provided sources

Sirens from Netflix is fantastic BUT..............
Today, AKAPAD the Film Buff uncovers a major misconception about Netflix's recent release, Sirens, sparking a fiery debate across Reddit. Fortunately, he's here to set the record straight with his expert insights.

PRESSENCE (2024) - a horror masterpiece
AKAPAD The Film Buff Reviews Presence (2024): A Haunting Dive into Soderbergh’s Supernatural Thriller
Join Peter A. DeLuca, aka AKAPAD The Film Buff, as he dissects Presence (2024), the chilling supernatural thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh. Streaming now, this Neon release starring Lucy Liu and Julia Fox redefines haunted house narratives with its innovative storytelling and emotional depth. In this review, AKAPAD explores why Presence stands out in 2024’s cinematic landscape, delving into its unique perspective, masterful direction, and the questions it raises about fear and family. Is this Soderbergh’s boldest work yet? Discover AKAPAD’s signature blend of personal insight and critical analysis in this must-read review for film enthusiasts and horror fans alike. Don’t miss his take on one of the year’s most intriguing films!

Mountainhead - is a Sci-Fi Masterpiece
The Film Buff examines the genre classification of HBO's latest release, Mountainhead, arguing that it should be viewed as a science fiction film rather than a dark satire. This distinction is crucial for a deeper understanding of the film's narrative and themes.

Chasing Amy (1997) - Memories of
As the Film Buffs continue their deep dive into Kevin Smith's cinematic world, they recall the first time they watched Chasing Amy in 1997. The screening took place in a packed auditorium at Rutgers University in Philadelphia, an unforgettable night where they may have seen a rare, uncut version of the film—one that has yet to be released or made available beyond that special evening.

Thoughts on The Last of Us Season 2
AKAPAD The Film Buff gives his thouights on The Lat of Us Season 2.

THE SURRENDER (2025)
Welcome back to the AKAPAD Film Buff Podcast! Fridays are dedicated to independent cinema, and it doesn’t get more indie than the Shudder exclusive The Surrender—a bold film showcasing a breakout star and a visionary director.

Black Bag (2025)
Steven Soderbergh may be one of the greatest filmmakers the industry has ever seen. In contrast to the high-octane excitement of Mission: Impossible, AKAPAD The Film Buff explores a compelling spy movie alternative that feels as polished as its big-budget counterparts. AKAPAD The Film Buff delves into Soderbergh’s illustrious career, highlighting how a single pivotal scene can define an entire film.

Mission: Impossible 3 - M:I:III
Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff achieves the impossible in his review of Mission: Impossible III, the third film in the iconic franchise. He passionately argues that this movie stands as the greatest series reboot of all time, highlighting the masterful storytelling of writer-director J.J. Abrams and the electrifying opening sequence that sets the tone for an unforgettable thrill ride.

THE LAST SHOWGIRL (2024)
The Film Buff is furious! The Last Showgirl embodies the essence of exceptional filmmaking, yet the Academy Awards snubbed it entirely. Pamela Anderson delivered a career-defining performance worthy of an Oscar, and Jamie Lee Curtis shone brilliantly as her co-star. Tragically, their remarkable work was overlooked, failing to keep pace with the global acclaim it deserved.

Mickey 17 (2025) - an overrated mess
On rare occasions, AKAPAD The Film Buff has been known to abandon a film before finishing it, and recently, Mickey 17, unavailable on HBO Max, joined that list. In today’s episode, Peter discusses the illustrious career of writer-director Bong Joon-ho, explores Robert Pattinson’s potential Oscar-worthy performance, and reveals why he immediately disconnected from the movie after just one scene.
Those who brought us Mickey 17
Cast:
Robert Pattinson – Mickey Barnes (Mickey 17/Mickey 18)
Naomi Ackie – Nasha
Steven Yeun – Timo
Mark Ruffalo – Kenneth Marshall
Toni Collette – Ylfa
Anamaria Vartolomei – Kai Katz
Daniel Henshall – Preston
Patsy Ferran – Dorothy
Michael Monroe – Matthew
Cameron Britton – Arkady
Christian Patterson – Chainsaw Guy
Lloyd Hutchinson – Underboss
Samuel Blenkin – Delinquent Borrower
Ian Hanmore – Darius Blank
Sabet Choudhury – News Reporter
Tim Key – Pigeon Man
Rose Shalloo – The Supporter
Steve Park – (Role not specified)
Holliday Grainger – (Role not specified)
Angus Imrie – (Role not specified)
Thomas Turgoose – (Role not specified)
Edward Davis – (Role not specified)
Bronwyn James – (Role not specified)
Milo James – (Role not specified)
Jude Mack – (Role not specified)
Sam Woodhams – (Role not specified)
Kayla Meikle – (Role not specified)
Haydn Gwynne – (Role not specified)
Theo Ogundipe – (Role not specified)
Jamila Wingett – (Role not specified)
Spike White – (Role not specified)
Afolabi Alli – (Role not specified)
Anna Mouglalis – (Role not specified)
Laura Mickiewicz – (Role not specified)
Chris Straessle – (Role not specified)
Jason Knox-Johnston – (Role not specified)
Christine Lois – (Role not specified)
Chelsea Davison – (Role not specified)
Paul Savulescu – (Role not specified)
Jan Gronczewski – (Role not specified)
Christine Neumann – (Role not specified)
Saado Abou-Khazaal – (Role not specified)
Crew:
Bong Joon-ho – Director, Writer, Producer
Edward Ashton – Writer (based on the novel Mickey7 by)
Darius Khondji – Cinematographer
Fiona Crombie – Production Designer
Jang Hee-chul – Creature Designer (Creepers)
Dan Glass – Visual Effects
Chris McLaughlin – Visual Effects

The Thin Red Line (1998) - Memorial Day 2025
The Thin Red Line: A Masterpiece Explored by Peter A. DeLuca
For Memorial Day 2025, film enthusiast Peter A. DeLuca, known as AKAPAD The Film Buff, reflects on what he considers the greatest war movie of all time: The Thin Red Line (1998). Directed by Terrence Malick, this cinematic gem stands out for its profound exploration of war, humanity, and sacrifice. DeLuca delves into the historical context of the film, its competitive landscape during its release, and its enduring significance.
Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II, The Thin Red Line transcends traditional war narratives with its philosophical depth and poetic visuals. DeLuca highlights how the film’s release alongside other 1998 war epics, like Saving Private Ryan, sparked debates among critics and audiences. Yet, its introspective storytelling and stellar ensemble cast cemented its legacy.
For history buffs and cinephiles alike, The Thin Red Line remains a vital work, offering timeless insights into the human cost of conflict. DeLuca’s passion for this masterpiece underscores why it continues to resonate, making it a fitting tribute for Memorial Day reflection.

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE THE FINAL RECKONING
On a hectic, rainy day in Philadelphia, I made a dedicated trek to the theater to bring you a review of Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning, the thrilling conclusion to Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt saga. This film serves as a direct sequel to the original 1996 Mission: Impossible, delivering a nostalgic yet explosive finale.

The Tomorrow War (2021) - Zach Dean did the impossible
Today, The Film Buff guides you through the 2021 Amazon Studios film The Tomorrow War, which may be the most straightforward and logically consistent time-travel movie ever made.

Mission Impossible 2- M:I-2
In 2000, Tom Cruise propelled Mission: Impossible into uncharted territory, transforming it into what would become the ultimate showcase for visionary directors. It all began with this film, directed by John Woo, setting the stage for an iconic franchise.

The Killer (2024) - John Woo remakes his own FLICK!!!!
Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff explores a rare cinematic achievement: a director remaking his own film. In this limited but fascinating category, Peter delves into the career of John Woo, examining the impact of his work and questioning why this particular remake didn't garner a larger release.

Mission Impossible - Part One of the greatest action movie franchise
Recalling the Thrill of Mission: Impossible’s 1996 Premiere – A Film Buff’s Perspective by AKAPAD
In 1996, the cinematic landscape shifted with the electrifying debut of Mission: Impossible. As a wide-eyed film buff, I vividly remember the anticipation swirling around its premiere. Directed by Brian De Palma and starring Tom Cruise as the daring Ethan Hunt, the film blended high-octane action, intricate espionage, and a pulse-pounding score that left audiences gripped. From the iconic Langley heist to the explosive train chase, every frame oozed tension and innovation. For AKAPAD, this wasn’t just a movie—it was a cultural moment that redefined the spy thriller genre, sparking a franchise that still captivates. Reliving that premiere feels like stepping back into a time when cinema dared us to accept the impossible.

The Bondsman (2025) - CANCELED - GO WATCH IT
This Monday morning, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into the missed potential of Amazon's latest cancellation, The Bondsman, and explores why this show could become a future obsession for viewers. Despite its abrupt end, the series' unique premise and compelling narrative suggest we may see more of it someday.

Stitch the Movie (2003) a universe expanding epic
In this weekend's Animation Spotlight episode, The Film Buff dives into what makes Stitch! The Movie a standout universe-expanding sequel, holding its own against Disney's ambitious follow-ups like Star Wars and the MCU.

Hellboy Blood and Iron - the franchise best
It's Animation Saturday, and The Film Buff is dropping a bombshell from his in-depth Hellboy study! Is Hellboy: Blood and Iron the ultimate portrayal of the character across all its many media incarnations? To dive deeper, AKAPAD poses a bold question: Should Hellboy stick to one-hour animated adventures? Is this the format that best showcases our favorite horned hero?

THE ENDLESS (2017)
THE ENDLESS (2017)

Novocaine (2025)
Novocaine showcases Jack Quaid's meteoric rise, propelled by what may be Hollywood's most original publicity stunt in film history. However, beyond its bold high-concept premise, Novocaine lacks dynamic action sequences and a compelling creative hook.

Nonnas - from Netflix
If you ever need to hear the argument as to how and why movie tropes are benficial for the audience than is the episode for you. The Film Buff leaps into another Netflix release with Nonnas.

MALLRATS - the Kevin Smith comedy masterpiece
One of the most cherished aspects of the filmgoing experience explored on the AKAPAD Film Buff Podcast is the magic of experiencing a movie as if for the first time. Tonight’s episode captures that rare phenomenon, a moment so uncommon it has occurred only a handful of times in the podcast’s history.
In this episode, AKAPAD passionately argues why Kevin Smith’s impact on the 1990s indie film scene was as transformative as George Lucas’s influence on cinema in the 1980s.
Those who brought us Mallrats.
Cast
Jason Lee as Brodie Bruce
Jeremy London as T.S. Quint
Shannen Doherty as Rene Mosier
Claire Forlani as Brandi Svenning
Ben Affleck as Shannon Hamilton
Joey Lauren Adams as Gwen Turner
Renée Humphrey as Tricia Jones
Jason Mewes as Jay
Kevin Smith as Silent Bob
Ethan Suplee as Willam Black
Stan Lee as Himself
Priscilla Barnes as Miss Ivannah
Michael Rooker as Mr. Jared Svenning
Carol Banker as Security Guard
Steven Blackwell as Arresting Cop #2
Kyle Boe as Pull Toy Kid
David Brinkley as TV Executive #1
Walter Flanagan as Fan Boy
Ethan Flower as Guy Contestant #1
Chelsea Frye as Girl with Easter Bunny
Jeff Gadbois as Kid
Ed Hapstak as Mall Shopper
Terry Hempleman as Cop
Art James as Game Show Host
Mikey Kovar as Kid
David Klein as Mall Shopper
Scott Mosier as Kid
Sven-Ole Thorsen as La Fours
Crew
Director: Kevin Smith
Writer: Kevin Smith
Producers:
James Jacks
Sean Daniel
Scott Mosier
Cinematographer: David Klein
Editor: Paul Dixon
Music: Ira Newborn
Casting Director: Don Phillips
Production Companies:
Gramercy Pictures
Universal Pictures
Alphaville Films
Production Designer: Dina Lipton
Costume Designer: Dana Allyson
Sound Designer: James L. Venable

Summer of 69 - a different kind of Summer film
Kicking off the work week, Peter dives into an emerging film genre he's recently begun exploring. The latest addition to this deep dive, Summer of '69, just dropped on Hulu. Breaking conventions in everything from casting to plot, this film enriches the cinematic experience for all moviegoers.

Lilo and Stitch - The Franchise
Animation Weekend: How Lilo & Stitch Redefined Disney
This Animation Weekend, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into Lilo & Stitch, the Disney B-movie that became a cultural phenomenon and reshaped the studio’s creative trajectory. Join us as we explore how this quirky, heartfelt tale of an unconventional ohana transformed Disney animation.

The Studio - is awesome madness
The Studio, now streaming on Apple TV+, joins a storied tradition of Hollywood turning the camera on itself, yet it stands out as a testament to the industry’s storytelling prowess. This series exemplifies the creative strength of modern television, blending sharp wit with incisive commentary. Seth Rogen, who stars in and co-created the show, reaffirms his place as one of today’s most compelling storytellers. His ability to weave humor with heartfelt narrative demands attention, marking The Studio as a must-watch and Rogen as a creative force to follow closely.
Those who brought The Studio to The Film Buff.
Main Cast:
Seth Rogen as Matt Remick (head of Continental Studios)
Catherine O'Hara as Patty Leigh (former studio head, Matt's mentor)
Ike Barinholtz as Sal Seperstein (Matt's colleague and best friend)
Kathryn Hahn as Maya (head of marketing at Continental Studios)
Chase Sui Wonders as Quinn (creative executive, Matt's assistant)
Bryan Cranston as Griffin Mill (CEO of Continental Studios, guest star)
Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Petra (Matt's secretary, guest star)
Dewayne Perkins as Tyler (marketing team member, guest star)
Rebecca Hall as Linda (Matt's girlfriend, pediatric oncologist)
Notable Guest Stars (Appearing as Themselves or in Cameo Roles):
Martin Scorsese
Anthony Mackie
Charlize Theron
Zack Snyder
Zoë Kravitz
Ice Cube
Paul Dano
Zac Efron
Quinta Brunson
Ziwe
Greta Lee
Adam Scott
Ron Howard
Ted Sarandos
Antony Starr
Aaron Sorkin
Devon Bostick
Steve Buscemi
Lil Rel Howery
Peter Berg
David Krumholtz
Nicholas Stoller
Matt Belloni (voice cameo)
Key Crew:
Seth Rogen (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer)
Evan Goldberg (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer)
Peter Huyck (Creator, Executive Producer)
Alex Gregory (Creator, Executive Producer)
Frida Perez (Creator, Executive Producer)
James Weaver (Executive Producer)
Alex McAtee (Executive Producer)
Josh Fagen (Executive Producer)
Production Companies:
Point Grey Pictures
Lionsgate Television

WATCHMEN THE ULTIMATE CUT - THE GOAT
WATCHMEN THE ULTIMATE CUT - THE GOAT

iHostage (2025)
From Netflix comes a film crafted to captivate. Has the world rediscovered the joy of simply enjoying a movie, or does a feverish, cynical mindset still strip away the ability to immerse in a story as lives hang in the balance? AKAPAD, The Film Buff, does what he does best: dives into a new Netflix release and breaks it down for you.

DIDI (2024) - An Oscar level movie on every level
Didi (2024), streaming on Hulu, delivers a poignant American drama that revitalizes the genre. This immensely significant film deserves acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the complex, often elusive teenage experience—a theme that has challenged filmmakers across generations.
The Film Buff is grateful for those who brought us DIDI.
- Izaac Wang as Chris Wang (Dìdi)
- Joan Chen as Chungsing Wang (Chris's mother)
- Shirley Chen as Vivian Wang (Chris's older sister)
- Chang Li Hua as Nai Nai (Chris's grandmother)
- Mahaela Park as Madi (Chris's love interest)
- Raul Dial as Fahad (Chris's friend)
- Aaron Chang as Soup (Chris's friend)
- Chiron Cillia Denk as Donovan
- Sunil Mukherjee Maurillo as Cory (credited as Sunil Maurillo)
- Montay Boseman as Nugget
- Alysha Syed as Jade
- Alaysia Simmons as Ellie
- Tarnvir Kamboj as Hardeep
- Shiu Fang Wang as Shiu Fang
- Jayden Chiang as Max
- Joziah Lagonoy as Josh
- Joshua Hankerson as Mack
- Georgie August as Georgia (credited as Dalila George August)
- Director: Sean Wang
- Writer: Sean Wang
- Producers:
- Executive Producers (under AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, and Maiden Voyage Pictures banners):
- Music Composer: Giosuè Greco
- Music Supervisor: Toko Nagata
- Cinematographer: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Sam A. Davis (Director of Photography)
- Editor: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Arielle Zakowski
- Production Companies: AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, Maiden Voyage Pictures
- Distributor: Focus Features
CastCrew

THE FILMS OF PAUL W.S. ANDERSON
THE FILMS OF PAUL W.S. ANDERSON

Revenge of the 5th - Star Wars Visions - Sith
Revenge of the 5th - Star Wars Visions - Sith

MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU - STAR WARS (1977)
MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU - STAR WARS (1977)

THE GOOFY SCENARIO - how Disney lost a huge segment of it's audience
THE GOOFY SCENARIO - how Disney lost a huge segment of it's audience

STREET TRASH (2024) - a top 10 remake
What are the greatest remakes in American cinema?
What began in 1987 comes full circle in 2024 with the artistry of Ryan Kruger. Street Trash is a film that shines with clarity in its intent, and because of that, it delivers an unforgettable experience.

Monster Hunter (2020) - time to have fun
Today AKAPAD The Film Buff discusses the 2020's film, Monster Hunter.

WOLF MAN (2025)
The 2025 Wolf Man, directed by horror maestro Leigh Whannell, is a gripping and masterfully crafted thriller that delivers chilling suspense and standout performances.

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME
AKAPAD The Film Buff reviews Call Me By Your Name

HAVOC - from Netflix is incredible
Gareth Evans and Netflix deliver a gritty, unrelenting masterpiece with Havoc, a dark, visceral love letter to the action-cop genre. This blood-soaked thrill ride, where corruption taints every soul and no one escapes unscathed by the credits, is a raw, pulse-pounding triumph. The Film Buff is all in for this chaotic, adrenaline-fueled delight!
The Film Buff is grateful to those who brought us Havoc.
The Cast:
Tom Hardy as Walker
Jessie Mei Li as Ellie
Timothy Olyphant as Vincent
Forest Whitaker as Lawrence Beaumont
Justin Cornwell as Charlie
Quelin Sepulveda as Mia
Luis Guzmán as Raul
Yeo Yann Yann as Tsui's Mother
Sunny Pang as Ching
Michelle Waterson as The Assassin
Richard Harrington
Jeremy Ang Jones as Tsui Fong
Gordon Alexander as Hayes
Tom Wu
Narges Rashidi
Jill Winternitz
Serhat Metin as Cortez
Xelia Mendes-Jones
Jim Caesar
Sharon D. Clarke
Alan Leong
The Crew:
Gareth Evans – Director, Screenwriter, Producer
Tom Hardy – Producer
Ed Talfan – Producer
Aram Tertzakian – Producer
Scott Frank – Additional Literary Material (uncredited)
John Lee Hancock – Additional Literary Material (uncredited)
Matt Flannery – Director of Photography
Tom Pearce – Production Designer
Siân Jenkins – Costume Designer
Aria Prayogi – Music
Sara Jones – Editor
Matt Platts-Mills – Editor
Gareth Evans – Editor
Jude Poyer – Action Designer & Stunt Coordinator
Kelly Valentine Hendry – Casting
Henry Engelhardt – Executive Producer
Diane Briere de L’Isle – Executive Producer
Nick Spicer – Executive Producer
Nate Bolotin – Executive Producer
Andrew Eaton – Executive Producer

EVEREST - one hell of a story
AKAPAD The Film Buff reviews Everest.

BABYGIRL (2024) - masterful filmmaking
Today, Peter A. DeLuca, The Film Buff, dives into Halina Reijn's latest film, Babygirl, a must-see that shouldn’t be missed or overlooked, now available on HBO Max.