Pop Culture

John Podhoretz on what makes a movie stand the test of time.

Hannah Long on how escape-room operators are locking in fun and profit.

Paul Cantor explains how Mary Shelley’s monster tramples all over the supposed line between high culture and pop culture.

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Green Book—Sonny shares his disdain while Vic lavishes praise. JVL and Sonny ask Vic if there's any movie he doesn't like. Sonny and Vic do their worst Italian impressions. Vic takes questions about his recent gout flare up.

On this latest episode, the Substandard takes on Creed II and the Rocky oeuvre. JVL buys a flatscreen, Vic remembers seeing Ricky Jay, and Sonny talks about standing "on" line.

On this week's episode, the Substandard reflects on the death of Stan Lee and the greatness of The Good Place. JVL has an origin story—about Fanta. Vic hates philosophy. And Sonny Bunch returns!

On this week's return episode, the Substandard takes on Bohemian Rhapsody. Special guest Mike Warren fact-checks and gives us a Queen ranking. JVL gets into queer theory and Vic recounts his New York City bar crawl. Plus a special review and trenchant analysis of Election 2018!

On this latest episode, the Substandard reviews First Man, which Sonny and Vic enjoyed. JVL begs to differ. Vic goes to an all-you-can-eat Balkan restaurant. JVL enlightens us on the concierge bee-keeping industry. Plus a ranking of NASA-ish movies!

John Podhoretz on the creaky, predictable return of the ’90s sitcom ‘Murphy Brown.’

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses The House With a Clock in Its Walls and the YA adaptation genre. Does anyone want to watch a Harry Potter movie without Harry? JVL reveals his pillow obsession. Sonny asks about the existence of a Dark Sleep Web. Vic recounts watching Coma.

Bernie Taupin’s lyrics make him whole.

Or is it too early to talk about it?

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Amazon's new series, Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan. The cohosts rank Tom Clancy movies and JVL ranks the books. Flash gets benched, Vic prepares for a 5K, and Sonny gets a new pair of shoes. Plus a review that is too hot to handle!

In this JVLess episode, Sonny and Vic discuss Crazy Rich Asians at the box office. Sonny does an Oreo pairing and Vic tries to put the fix on his blood test. As a special treat to listeners, the second half is a clip show—enjoy and see you after Labor Day!

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses the surprise hit The Meg and looks back on the summer box office—what we got right (a few things) and wrong (a lot). JVL gets called a nerd, Vic explains slot machines to his nephew, and Sonny's dog gets into a sticky situation. Plus Warner Bros. DC…

I was a little surprised last week to learn that Bill Loud, patriarch of the Southern California family depicted in the first reality-television show (An American Family, PBS, 1973), had died—at the patriarchal age of 97. But of course, I shouldn’t have been surprised: A generation or more has…

In this latest episode, the Substandard takes on Mission Impossible: Fallout. The cohosts rank the M:I series (they all agree on what's the worst). JVL returns from San Francisco, Vic's Bachelor Week comes to an end, and Sonny appears on another podcast. Plus love from the fans, a spirit of the…

As the comedian pivoted from political comedy to become a legend, so too will another generation of funny-men and -women—and soon.

In this latest episode, the Substandard reflects on Stanley Kubrick and the 50th anniversary of 2001: A Space Odyssey. Sonny and JVL wade into the James Gunn tweet controversy. Vic is celebrating Civilization and its contents. Plus ladder golf and Carmine’s portions!

Just like the woman herself.

John Podhoretz explains how The Rock's poorly chosen star vehicles risk squandering fans’ affections.

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses the Rock's latest actioner, Skyscraper, and the disaster flick genre (The Poseidon Adventure > Beyond the Poseidon Adventure). JVL buys a ton of baseball cards. Sonny reappraises The Dark Knight III: The Master Race. And Vic reappraises Neve…

On this latest mega episode, the Substandard discusses Ant-Man and the Wasp and how a film with such a small scope ends up a big winner. JVL gets trolled over his recent dishwasher purchase, quite literally a sound investment. Sonny talks Justice League and Zack Snyder. And Vic talks all things…

It is oddly fitting that Steve Ditko had been dead for a week before the rest of the world discovered word of his death.

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Sicario: Day of Soldado. Sonny goes off on all the ways it went wrong. JVL gets ready for a day of baseball with his mystery date. Vic gets ready for a tropical 5K "fun" run. Plus a ranking of best and worst sequels and a dishwasher update!

An excerpt from Superhero Ethics.

Sarah Silverman found a new edge: niceness.

So here’s a crossover we didn’t see coming. After a year of keeping a low profile, Barack and Michelle Obama are stepping back into the public square to try their hand at a new enterprise: film production. The pair on Monday announced a multi-year production deal with streaming giant Netflix, which…

The rapper has always been crass and annoying. But now he's the "wrong kind" of crass and annoying.

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Super Troopers 2 and stoner flicks. JVL lectures on drug policy, Sonny has a hot take on Kanye, Vic embarks on a Reduced Gluttony Diet.

In this latest micro episode, Sonny and Vic discuss the politics of Chappaquiddick (JVL is out of town). Sonny explains the difference between dead Democrats and dead Republicans. Vic remembers meeting Ted Kennedy.iFrame Object

In this twee episode of the Substandard, our hosts discuss Isle of Dogs and the Wes Anderson oeuvre. Sonny gives us rankings. JVL goes back to the minors. Vic orients his kids with Chinese food. Plus "Gene" unleashed!

On this latest micro episode, the Substandard discusses the second trailer for Solo: A Star Wars Story. It's actually pretty good (JVL wants more Donald Glover!). Sonny calls Emilia Clarke "a nothing." Vic uses the word "luscious." Plus a discussion of fonts!

Let’s start with the obvious: Andre the Giant, subject of a new documentary from HBO, was huge. The wrestler seemed almost to have stepped out of legend or myth. Billed at a whopping 7-foot-4 and 477 pounds, he was a veritable Grendel, with deep-set eyes, frizzy hair, and a protruding jaw. Dubbed…

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Ready Player One, which all four of them went to see. JVL prefers the book, Sonny prefers the movie, and Vic found all the pop culture references heart warming. Vic also gets a close shave and JVL remembers calling the Nintendo hotline.

In this latest micro episode, Sonny and Vic discuss one of their favorite shows, The Americans on FX. As the show enters its final season, Vic and Sonny look back on what makes it compelling television. It is also a JVLess episode because of schedule conflicts, but the gang should all back on…

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses the Tomb Raider reboot and video games that become movies—are they ever any good? Sonny ranks the good ones. JVL gets mistaken for a grandfather and Vic thinks his blood test results are fake news.

On this latest micro episode, the Substandard celebrates a Duke-less Final Four. JVL and Vic are rooting for the Ramblers and love Sister Jean—Sonny, less so. Vic recounts punishment by the nuns at his grade school.

The Death of Stalin is a blacker-than-black comedy about the members of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and how they jockey for power after the demise of Joseph Vissarionovich in 1953. The movie is sometimes gaspingly hilarious—and at all times audacious and…

In this latest episode of the Substandard, Sonny reviews The Death of Stalin, a movie Vic did not see because he refused to pay for parking. The return of Jony Ive is met with skepticism. Recriminations are launched, profanities are hurled. It's the crankiest Substandard yet!

Today on the Daily Standard Podcast, Sonny Bunch discusses his cover story on the end of the golden age of television with host Charlie Sykes and Books & Arts editor Adam Keiper.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard recaps the NCAA history-making defeat of 1-seed UVA at the hands of 16-seed UMBC. Sonny remains stoic, unfazed, and indifferent, despite being a UVA alumnus. (It helps that he really is not a fan of college basketball.) JVL asks Vic how Georgetown did.

Rejected by more than two dozen publishers in the early 1960s, A Wrinkle in Time was itself a work of its own time and entirely out of time—a sophisticated and original intellectual coming-of-age story featuring speculative science fiction, anti-Communist dystopia, and Christian hermeneutics. There…

In this deadly serious episode, the Substandard discusses Death Wish, the original versus the reboot—Sonny gives the latter a million stars (another reviewer liked it too). JVL reminds us of the general awfulness of the 1970s, but at least there was Charles Bronson. Plus Vic weighs the sin of…

In this latest micro episode of the Substandard, sponsored by Casper Mattresses, JVL announces a life-altering event. Sonny and Vic want to get to the meat of the matter. The steaks couldn’t be higher!

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Annihilation and the Natalie Portman oeuvre. Vic suffers Xbox nausea. Sonny and JVL weight the future (or lack thereof) of Batgirl. Plus Oscar predictions!

In this latest micro episode of the Substandard, Sonny, JVL, and Vic are as mad as hell at speed cameras and they aren't going to take it anymore! The cohosts discuss the D.C. speed camera vigilante and his fight for truth, justice, and the American way.

In this week’s super episode, the Substandard reviews Marvel’s Black Panther. JVL has plenty of questions, two of which aren’t rhetorical. Vic discusses his “blowout” lunch. Sonny reveals his own origin story.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard reflects on the Lenten season. What are the theological implications for the hosts? JVL and Sonny "grill" Vic about his Lenten sacrifice.

On this week’s episode, the Substandard discusses the Clint Eastwood oeuvre. Sonny reviews The 15:17 to Paris and finds himself strangely drawn to it. JVL tears into the coverage of North Korea at the Olympics. Why is Vic wearing a trenchcoat to the theater?

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard takes on the Olympics. How do the hosts feel about ice dancing? Vic is mildly interested in the winter games. JVL can't get enough. Sonny hates them.

On this week’s episode, JVL continues to bask in the glow of a Super Bowl victory. But how about those Super Bowl ads? What to make of Solo? Your cohosts list their favorites. Sonny reviews Hostiles. Plus a hostile review by “Gene”!

The Eagle has landed but JVL is still flying high in this macro episode of the Substandard. Has the torch been passed? Wentz vs. Foles—what happens now? Plus bedlam on the streets of Philadelphia!

On this latest episode of the Substandard, we talk about the impending Disney-Fox merger. Will the X-Men join forces with the Avengers? Will there finally be a definitive Fantastic Four? We also veer into a discussion of Lord of the Rings, JVL’s pregame jitters, Las Vegas, and the Breakfast Sampler…

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard discusses the Australian Open and the greatness of Roger Federer. Plus JVL professes his love for the Williams sisters, more Battle of the Sexes, and the time Agassi's wig almost came off.

The Post is about a little-known and relatively minor incident in the annals of newspapering—how the Washington Post made itself a player in the Pentagon Papers story, the biggest scoop of 1971, after it was beaten to the punch by the New York Times. And it merges that account with a female…

On this latest episode, the Substandard tackles (so to speak!) the playoff picture. JVL soars like an eagle. Vic hates getting interrupted. Sonny recounts his basement-dwelling years. Plus a discussion of post-9/11 war movies and a review of 12 Strong.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard discusses the nominees for this year's Academy Awards. Sonny thinks The Shape of Water is in great shape to win. JVL wonders if a movie that's not woke even has a shot. Vic fears that Darkest Hour and Dunkirk split votes? And where's Wonder Woman?

In this latest mega-episode, the Substandard discusses the works of director Paul Thomas Anderson—JVL reveals himself to be a PTA scholar. Sonny reviews Phantom Thread. Vic reveals his favorite bathroom in D.C. JVL is writing Eagles fanfiction. And Sonny still hates coconut.

In this latest micro episode, things get hairy (and husky!) when the Substandard debates the merits of the coconut. Sonny goes on a hate-filled tirade against the drupaceous fruit. JVL and Vic rush to its defense. Who hasn't dreamed of eating Maryanne's coconut cream pie on Gilligan's Island? Who…

On this latest episode, the Substandard talks about Bright and the sustainability of the Netflix model. Where does all that money come from and how long can this last? Sonny and JVL break it all down. Vic explains his absence.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard takes on the ultimate Hollywood farce—the Golden Globes! Did Best Picture really deserve to go to Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain, Back and to the Left? And what is the shape of water, anyway?

On this Vic-less episode, listeners get a taste of life without JVL and Sonny’s congenial cohost as the two remaining Substandardites discuss the year that was in the movie biz, The Last Jedi’s box office success (and failure), and their favorite movies of 2017.

Enough with the whiny movie critics complaining about the new Star Wars movie. Like them, I was fully prepared to hate the thing when I arrived at the screening, but that prejudice was overcome by the movie’s wondrous look and by its fascinating, multilayered plot.

On this holiday micro episode, the Substandard discusses A Christmas Carol (apparently based on a book). Which version is your favorite? Who's the best Scrooge? And could the best version not even be called A Christmas Carol? Listeners' note: The Substandard is off next week so we encourage you to…

On this special year-end episode, the Substandard reviews (criticizes), dissects (tears limb from limb), and discusses (goes off on) Star Wars: The Last Jedi. JVL shares his thoughts on missed payoffs. Sonny tries to explain astral projection. Vic wonders why Snoke is wearing a gold lamé tunic.…

The propulsively entertaining but problematic new movie I, Tonya reminds us that it’s been nearly a quarter-century since the figure skater Nancy Kerrigan was whacked on the back of the knee by a baton-wielding goon. The attack was the outcome of an insane white-trash conspiracy to give Kerrigan’s…

In this seminal episode, the Substandard discusses Darkest Hour. Is it better than Dunkirk (take a wild guess)? JVL explains to Sonny how watches work. Sonny recalls his Chris Farley-like interview with Gary Oldman. Vic's Elf on the Shelf turns into Annabelle. Plus JVL on the real Churchill and the…

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard gets ready to watch Star Wars: The Last Jedi. JVL hasn’t been this excited since Revenge of the Sith. Vic wonders if Luke will drive a Nissan. Sonny has already seen it—and what he reveals will leave you stunned. Set for stun!

On this disaster of an episode, the Substandard discusses The Disaster Artist and cult classics. From Kentucky Fried Movie to Office Space, what counts and what doesn’t? And speaking of episodes, one of the hosts suffers a major breakdown that leaves the studio in chaos. Plus tips on how to handle…

In this latest micro episode of the Substandard, Vic and JVL discuss the life and times of Jim Nabors and reminisce about classic ’60s reruns and spinoffs. Sonny spent his youth watching ESPN and playing NES.

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses the works of Denzel Washington. Sonny reviews Roman J. Israel, Esquire. Vic expounds on the deliciousness of disco fries. And JVL loves his “Marwel” helicarrier. Plus an iWatch story that will leave you, um, drained.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard discusses the Justice League box office debacle. JVL and Sonny talk damage control—can a reboot save the day? We also chat about (yes, dudes chattin'!) the inappropriateness of hugs. Vic and JVL explain the magic of Silver Spoons to Sonny.

In this week’s Thanksgiving episode, the Substandard takes on Justice League. But just how bad is it? Like, Suicide Squad bad? (JVL: Yes.) Sonny runs us through a Thanksgiving bracket: pecan vs. pumpkin pie? turkey vs. stuffing? Vic judges a whiskey competition (Sonny couldn’t have been happier for…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard discusses Murder on the Orient Express. Sonny and Vic are on board but JVL calls it a trainwreck! Sonny visits a Chinese buffet, JVL’s watch talks smack, and Vic gets all out of joint talking about dowels. Plus a “Gene” review, rejected Halloween candies, and…

On this latest micro episode of the Substandard, Sonny and Vic discuss the greatest television show of all time, Stranger Things 2. At least it's the greatest show since Stranger Things, which was the greatest show since Game of Thrones, which was the best show since The Wire and The Sopranos.…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard takes on Thor: Ragnarok, Sonny lectures JVL on the immorality of buying fake Lego, and Vic fears his father-in-law has hijacked his woodshop class. Plus tips for day-long drinking!

This latest micro episode of the Substandard takes a sudden detour (stay tuned for a future episode on Stranger Things 2!) when Vic discusses being spotted by a fan of the podcast. Sonny theorizes that Vic gets recognized because he genuinely likes talking with people while Sonny doesn’t. JVL takes…

The first season of the Netflix show Stranger Things, released last year, immediately plunged its protagonists into danger. In the first episode we see 12-year-old Will Byers, one of a quartet of Dungeons & Dragons-playing nerds, waylaid by a dark shape on his way home along the wooded back roads…

On this week’s 50th episode, the Substandard realizes there’s not much left to talk about. And yet: Sonny hates Suburbicon and JVL wonders when George Clooney will stop making movies. Vic operates a bandsaw (woodshop update!) and “Gene” reveals his top 10 candies.

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard talks about Halloween costumes and Halloween movies. Because we just can't get enough of Halloween.

With Doctor Who set to welcome the first female incarnation of its eponymous hero, it’s also getting ready to shake up the usual Doctor-companion dynamic. The BBC announced Sunday that the doctor will now have three companions, played by Tosin Cole, Mandip Gill, and game show host, Bradley Walsh.

On this latest episode, the Substandard takes a break from movies to discuss a deeply personal subject: our favorite Halloween costumes and candies! For the latter we created a candy draft that goes 10 rounds deep. As “Gene” might say, it was Nutrageous! Plus JVL recalls his rowing days, Sonny…

This micro episode of the Substandard is a bubbly one! The hosts debate the differences between sparkling wine versus champagne. JVL could not care less. Vic explains Benson to Sonny. Plus Facebook Live Q&A!

Half a century ago, fashionable young moviemakers looking for new ways to separate themselves from old Hollywood fuddy-duddies—and to épater la bourgeoisie even though it was that very bourgeoisie they needed to become rich and powerful—sank their teeth into the notions that America and capitalism…

The latest episode of the Substandard is a meaty one—we go on at length about sandwich joints and sandwich meats. Sonny discovers a steakhouse, JVL discovers Arby’s, but Vic discovers a woodshop class. We also discuss aging action stars—Sonny reviews The Foreigner. Plus Vic sounds like Edward…

On this latest episode of the Substandard, we break down Blade Runner 2049. Sonny and JVL go deep on the movie’s true meaning. JVL and Vic share thoughts on My Little Pony. A discussion of Harvey Weinstein gets meta. Plus the return of “Gene” and a fan-service outtake!

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard searches for meaning in the newest trailer for Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The music still soars, says Sonny. Who’s the adorable little furball next to the CGI’d Chewbacca, asks Vic? When will we stop paying money for this dross, asks JVL?

Can there be such a thing as a great movie that is also unsatisfying? It would seem like a contradiction in terms. After all, how can something work when it doesn’t work? And yet it does happen. The early Marx Brothers and Woody Allen pictures are disastrous pieces of storytelling, but who cares…

Can there be such a thing as a great movie that is also unsatisfying? It would seem like a contradiction in terms. After all, how can something work when it doesn’t work? And yet it does happen. The early Marx Brothers and Woody Allen pictures are disastrous pieces of storytelling, but who cares…

The 1973 tennis match between the 29-year-old female champ Billie Jean King and the 55-year-old former champ Bobby Riggs was many things. It was one of the great “pseudo-events” of all time, fitting perfectly Daniel Boorstin’s definition in his 1962 book The Image as “dramatic performances in which…

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Kingsman: The Golden Circle and the Matthew Vaughn oeuvre, i.e., JVL on Layer Cake and lots of it. Sonny celebrates a big-league win, JVL stumbles across a LEGO home wrecker, and Vic loves free supermarket samples. All on this week’s Substandard!

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard reflects on the life and times of the late wrestling legend, Bobby "the Brain" Heenan.

In Brad’s Status, a 47-year-old man takes his 17-year-old son on a tour of Boston’s colleges. A onetime journalist whose award-winning website went bust during the financial meltdown, Brad Sloan runs a nonprofit in Sacramento that seeks to match donors with other worthy nonprofits. His wife works…

On this latest episode, the Substandard discusses mother! and movies they never want to see again. Sonny admits he used to love Baskin Robbins bubble gum ice cream—two treats in one! JVL just might pay 7 euros for Irish ice cream. Vic refuses to pay $60 for steak. It’s a classic First World…

On this latest micro episode, we discuss sugar and spice and all things pumpkin spice. Vic questions the origins of the Pumpkin Revolution. JVL educates his listeners on the flavors of each season—how on earth did grapefruit become the flavor of summer? Sonny loves grapefruit sprinkled with…

Stephen King’s It was the bestselling book of 1986 and the source material for an enormously successful two-part miniseries on ABC in 1990 that has been shown regularly on cable TV ever since. The ridiculously overlong novel reads like King is parodying himself; the miniseries is obvious and…

On this latest episode, the Substandard grapples with the “monster” at the box office: Stephen King’s It. Why do horror flicks do so well? JVL loves his sweater vests, Sonny ranks sweaters, and Vic is mad as hell and isn’t going to take this anymore!

On this latest mini episode, JVL interrupts our Fall Sports segment with an airing of grievance—namely that the show is tearing apart the cohosts and destroying their friendships. Sonny and Vic are sure it's fine.

On this latest episode of the Substandard we discuss the 40th anniversary of Close Encounters of the Third Kind and rank the Steven Spielberg oeuvre. Jonathan returns from hiatus, Sonny mourns the loss of his raison d’être, and Vic’s grill plan goes up in flames. Plus ice cream, surfing, and Pearl…

In this latest mini episode, Sonny, Vic, and JVL (he's back!) address the worst summer at the box office in years. Who's to blame? Fanboys, the lack of ideas at the studios, or China? Tune in (or download, really) to find out!

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses The Trip to Spain and ranks road trip movies. We also debate if ’90s rock music counts as classic rock. Special guest host Mike Warren saw Smash Mouth live. Vic saw Bell Biv DeVoe. And Sonny saw Sponge. Plus The Dark Knight on IMAX, spray painting…

Because there are so few of them, any movies about Americans living east of Los Angeles and west of Chicago will nowadays be labeled “important” on first sight. Taylor Sheridan, who grew up on a Texas ranch and moved to Wyoming after 20 years of intermittently rewarding acting work in L.A., has…

Because there are so few of them, any movies about Americans living east of Los Angeles and west of Chicago will nowadays be labeled “important” on first sight. Taylor Sheridan, who grew up on a Texas ranch and moved to Wyoming after 20 years of intermittently rewarding acting work in L.A., has…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard reviews Logan Lucky and ranks the Soderbergh oeuvre. Sonny does Internet research, Mike goes mulching, Vic asks: What’s mulch? Plus: Sonny makes Old Fashioneds (and his own simple syrup) and Gene Shalit returns! All on this week’s “Dick York-Dick Sargent”…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard discusses The Dark Tower, the best and worst Stephen King film adaptations—i.e., rankings!—and this summer’s box office doldrums. Sonny reveals himself as a Stephen King scholar. JVL thinks Tolstoy > Stephen King (he must be joking). Vic hated the deli slicer…

On this latest micro episode, the Substandard discusses Fast Times at Ridgemont High, 35 years later (of course we mention Phoebe Cates). Plus the rise of mall culture and a mini ranking of the Cameron Crowe oeuvre. Which is better: Jerry Maguire or Almost Famous? Did someone just say Vanilla Sky?

Charlize Theron first appears onscreen in her mostly terrific new action thriller, Atomic Blonde, trying to heal her wounded body in an ice bath. She has bruises all over her back. Her face is swollen, one of her eyes blackened. She pulls herself out of the tub, dresses laboriously, and limps into…

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses Atomic Blonde, the trailer for Death Wish, and the decline of 3-D. Jonathan offers a ranking that’s simply titillating, Sonny trolls for free booze (we love you Old Forester!), and Vic discovers cosplay for … Jurassic Park? Plus science fiction…

The Substandard weighs in on bad franchise name-changes and the horror that is the Krispy Kreme sugar bomb.

In this latest episode, JVL and Sonny review Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets and rank the Luc Besson oeuvre. Meanwhile, Vic and Sonny rank their favorite Chinese buffet dishes—Sesame Chicken > General Tso’s! Plus JVL on his great baseball weekend and Sonny on his expanding Criterion…

On this latest micro episode, the Substandard reflects on the late actor and playwright Sam Shepard. Vic remembers Shepard in The Right Stuff. Jonathan segues into G.I. Joe toys. Sonny has actually seen Days of Heaven.

On this week’s episode, the Substandard reviews Dunkirk and ranks the Christopher Nolan oeuvre. Sonny hates the beach, JVL hates Tesla even more, and Vic discovers Game of Thrones. Plus Justice League woes and Gene Shalit goes to the IMAX, all on this week’s Substandard!

The Big Sick is a movie about a struggling comedian from a Pakistani family and his graduate-student waif of a girlfriend. They break up. She gets a mysterious infection and is put in a medically induced coma. He must deal with her parents, who are angry with him for the way he treated her, and his…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

The Big Sick is a movie about a struggling comedian from a Pakistani family and his graduate-student waif of a girlfriend. They break up. She gets a mysterious infection and is put in a medically induced coma. He must deal with her parents, who are angry with him for the way he treated her, and his…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard discusses War for Planet of the Apes. Should Andy Serkis get an Oscar nom for best actor? The hosts share their innermost Star Wars fantasies. Sonny scolds Vic for getting his son a graphic novel that’s extremely graphic. And JVL turns into Red Hulk when he…

On this week's mini episode, the Substandard looks back on the life and work of George Romero and Martin Landau. Sonny reflects on the zombie legacy of Romero, JVL remembers the time he met Landau, and Vic may or may not have played hours of Doom.

In the past 15 years, no fewer than seven movies have featured the character of Peter Parker, the Queens teenager who obtains powers from a radioactive spider bite. Tobey Maguire starred in three of them from 2002 to 2007; Andrew Garfield starred in two from 2012 to 2014; and after appearing in a…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

In the past 15 years, no fewer than seven movies have featured the character of Peter Parker, the Queens teenager who obtains powers from a radioactive spider bite. Tobey Maguire starred in three of them from 2002 to 2007; Andrew Garfield starred in two from 2012 to 2014; and after appearing in a…

On this latest episode, the Substandard reviews Spider-Man Homecoming. JVL offers his take on Peter Parker 3.0 and his nerdified nemesis, Flash. Vic channels his inner Gene Shalit. And Sonny knows Amelia Earhart will never be found—but does he know his cured meats? Plus the best of In Search Of.…

On the latest micro-episode of the Substandard, Vic, JVL, and Sonny curse David Brooks for ruining Amazon Prime Day and suggest ways for the beneficent Jeff Bezos to improve the most wonderful time of the year.

Automobiles, pop songs, and movies form a golden braid as eternal as the one that binds Gödel, Escher, and Bach. In 1980, the writer-director Paul Schrader released American Gigolo, whose first three minutes mostly feature shots of Richard Gere driving a black Mercedes convertible along the Pacific…

Automobiles, pop songs, and movies form a golden braid as eternal as the one that binds Gödel, Escher, and Bach. In 1980, the writer-director Paul Schrader released American Gigolo, whose first three minutes mostly feature shots of Richard Gere driving a black Mercedes convertible along the Pacific…

There’s more than meets the eye on the latest episode of the Substandard. The hosts discuss Transformers: The Last Knight and the Michael Bay oeuvre. Sonny hates people who shoot off fireworks. Vic remembers drinking on the National Mall. And Jonathan explains his mysterious absence. All on the…

So, The Mummy. The question that bedevils me as I begin this review is how I can get to the end of it. Like Lucy in Peanuts, I am now counting words to see how quickly I can get to 700, which fills my slot here at The Weekly Standard. That was 53 words. I'm 8 percent of the way there. Can I make it?

So, The Mummy. The question that bedevils me as I begin this review is how I can get to the end of it. Like Lucy in Peanuts, I am now counting words to see how quickly I can get to 700, which fills my slot here at The Weekly Standard. That was 53 words. I'm 8 percent of the way there. Can I make it?

On this latest episode, the Substandard unravels The Mummy and questions the feasibility of a Dark Universe. But what other Extended Universes would we like to see? A Garry Marshall Universe, of course! JVL praises Rafa Nadal, Vic enjoys Virgin America, and Sonny rants against avocado toast, all on…

In this latest micro episode, the Substandard reflects on the passing of Adam West and ranks the Batmen from best to worst. Sonny and Vic embrace West's campy take on the Caped Crusader. Jonathan has a slightly different take. Pow! Bam! Zap! All on the latest Substandard!

Wonder Woman is a superhero movie about a very attractive person who was fashioned out of clay. She resides on an island on which only women live. It is in the Mediterranean Sea but hidden behind a gigantic magical cloud. She leaves it and emerges into World War I-era Europe so that she can get…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

Wonder Woman is a superhero movie about a very attractive person who was fashioned out of clay. She resides on an island on which only women live. It is in the Mediterranean Sea but hidden behind a gigantic magical cloud. She leaves it and emerges into World War I-era Europe so that she can get…

In this latest episode, the Substandard gets lassoed into reviewing Wonder Woman—is it the best thing to come out of the DC Comics Extended Universe? Is it better than Chav King Arthur? Jonathan brings a surprise to the studio—complete with sound effects! Sonny is not amused. Vic gets stranded in…

David Edelstein is one of the better-known film critics in the country. He's been a critic for decades and is currently the chief film critic for New York magazine, as well as the film critic for NPR's Fresh Air and CBS's Sunday Morning. Like everyone else in his position, he recently wrote a…

And another thing! The Substandard goes off on what drives us nuts in movie theaters. From cell phones to screen masking to the sticky floors of yesteryear, it's an airing of grievances, all on this latest mini episode of the Substandard.

The Arthurian legends are among the most enduring stories in history. But when a $175 million film version casting Arthur as the lowlife foster son of a prostitute battling dragons and a campy Jude Law bombed at the box office, the reason for the movie's failure, in Hollywood's eyes, was simple:…

In this new episode, the Substandard reviews Pirates of the Caribbean and Baywatch. Who's more overrated? Johnny Depp or the Rock? JVL admits he's a watchaholic, Vic has a soft spot for Donnie Brasco, and Sonny takes a hard line on thievery. Plus tales from the zoo, getting action at Action Park,…

In this latest micro-episode, the Substandard salutes our military and our favorite war movies. Sonny Bunch loves Inglourious Basterds and … Aliens? Vic and JVL remember meeting R. Lee Ermey, who explained how he landed the role of a lifetime in Full Metal Jacket. All on the latest Substandard!

David Lynch has not made a movie or a television show in a decade. But his overwhelming talent—a talent all but unmatched in cinematic history—for transferring to the screen the jarring and unforgettable images (and sounds) that haunt his unconscious has not been dimmed by his absence. The first 4…

David Lynch has not made a movie or a television show in a decade. But his overwhelming talent—a talent all but unmatched in cinematic history—for transferring to the screen the jarring and unforgettable images (and sounds) that haunt his unconscious has not been dimmed by his absence. The first 4…

Great Scott! In this week's episode the Substandard discusses Alien: Covenant and the best (and not-so-best) of Ridley Scott. JVL admits he has "the sensibility of a 9-year-old girl." Something hits Sonny in the head. You say ci-cay-da, Vic says ci-cah-da. Plus theme park terror and a word from our…

It's Burger Time at the Substandard. In this micro episode, we discuss the Harris poll putting Five Guys at the very top, ahead of In-N-Out. Sonny says Fact-check: True! JVL defines what makes a great burger. Vic adds a bit of history, from White Castle to the Nile—all on this micro-episode of the…

In the deceptively thoughtful 2014 action film John Wick, Keanu Reeves plays a recently widowed assassin who comes out of retirement after Russian gangsters beat him up, steal his car, and kill his dog. Miffed about the car, not too happy about the beating, but furious about the demise of his…

In the deceptively thoughtful 2014 action film John Wick, Keanu Reeves plays a recently widowed assassin who comes out of retirement after Russian gangsters beat him up, steal his car, and kill his dog. Miffed about the car, not too happy about the beating, but furious about the demise of his…

On this week's episode, the Substandard reviews King Arthur: Legend of the Sword and the Guy Ritchie oeuvre—in other words, rankings! Sonny cleans his grill and suffers a terrible injury. JVL talks mages and +5 ice swords. Vic complains about breakfast in bed. Plus Powers Boothe and a word from our…

On this week's episode, the Substandard reviews King Arthur: Legend of the Sword and the Guy Ritchie oeuvre—in other words, rankings! Sonny cleans his grill and suffers a terrible injury. JVL talks mages and +5 ice swords. Vic complains about breakfast in bed. Plus Powers Boothe and a word from our…

This discussion of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 will feature spoilers, so I don't want to hear any whining from any of you nerds. Read on, or don't; I get paid either way. Anyway, if you do complain, you're being silly because (a) this movie isn't a mystery, and (b) there aren't really any big…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

This discussion of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 will feature spoilers, so I don't want to hear any whining from any of you nerds. Read on, or don't; I get paid either way. Anyway, if you do complain, you're being silly because (a) this movie isn't a mystery, and (b) there aren't really any big…

The Substandard discusses Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2—it was great, it was good, it was terrible! JVL gives us a rundown of the Substandard Season One, Sonny's theory on chain restaurants is challenged—by Sonny! Vic's not afraid of "street meat." Plus pizza rankings and a word from our sponsor,…

The Substandard is off to the races in this latest micro-episode, talking all things Kentucky Derby. JVL asks how many mint juleps can one man drink—at a party with kids. Sonny doesn't think horses are athletes. Vic talks about his (genetic?) penchant for gambling and his trip to Churchill…

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses box-office bomb The Circle and the techno-thriller genre. Vic loves WarGames, Sonny goes on an Andy Rooney rant against elitist foodies, and Jonathan shares an L.A. story. All on this week's "inchoate" episode of the Substandard!

In this knockout mini-episode of the Substandard, we talk about the decline of boxing in America and the rise of UFC. JVL provides a bit of UFC history, and Sonny admits his love for the Sweet Science. Vic shares some scoop from a friend inside the boxing world.

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

In this week's episode, the Substandard tackles the summer movie lineup—what we're most looking forward to and what we're not. JVL has a very special surprise in store for the guys, and a very special guest comes by the studio—not many people know that! All on this week's episode of the Substandard!

In this mini-episode, the Substandard discusses the passing of Erin Moran—Joanie from Happy Days—and the perils of early Hollywood stardom. Vic admits seeing her on The Maury Povich Show, Sonny reflects on Corey Haim, and JVL remembers when Corey Feldman met his doppelgänger Matt Labash at the…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

In this latest episode, the Substandard discusses The Fate of the Furious and the ever-expanding franchise. JVL delivers a Fast and Furious exegesis and rankings. Sonny says to "just look at the pictures like a child." Vic compares it to the Emmanuelle series. Plus the Best and Worst of the…

In this bonus episode, the Substandard analyzes the new teaser trailer for The Last Jedi. You won't believe the things they discovered!

Something very peculiar has gone on in the comic book world over the last two weeks.

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

The Substandard blows the bloody doors off this episode with tributes to Fox's Red Eye and Michael Caine. Vic reviews Going In Style and gets graded by Sonny. JVL finally finds a whiskey he likes! Plus our favorite cable classics and a bonus discussion of the new trailer for Thor: Ragnarok, all on…

On this latest mini-episode, the Substandard tackles the Wendy's Nuggets Guy—you know, the one who asked for the free "nuggs" and was told by Wendy's that he'll need 18 million retweets. He's not even close, and that's a good thing.

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

On this week's episode, the Substandard is turning Japanese, we think they're turning Japanese, we really think so. Actually they're discussing Scarlett Johansson in Ghost in the Shell. Sonny rates ScarJo—in multiple categories. JVL and Vic get deep into Star Blazers while Sonny tweets at them in…

My attitude towards the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has always been one of casual indifference, but this year's enshrinement of the band Yes has changed my perspective.

On this mini episode, the Substandard talks college hoops, NCAA bracketology, and Fred Barnes's curious winning streak, plus the latest on Vic's alma mater, Georgetown (and why it's not JVL's alma mater).

Until its final scene, there isn't a moment in the new live-action version of Beauty and the Beast that wasn't done better in the 1991 animated film from which it derives.

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

Until its final scene, there isn’t a moment in the new live-action version of Beauty and the Beast that wasn't done better in the 1991 animated film from which it derives.

On this week's episode, the Mighty Morphin' Substandard discusses Hollywood's need to reboot—from Power Rangers and CHiPs to The Fugitive and Starsky & Hutch and everything in between. Vic eulogizes Chuck Barris, JVL discovers the Popsicle Twins, and Sonny hates "the remix culture people." All on…

I was, and I remain, one of the few people on this earth willing to state for the record that I thought the 2005 Peter Jackson version of King Kong was terrific. Indeed, I've long been of the opinion that most people who have condemned that picture didn't actually see it. It's long and…

A special micro episode of the WEEKLY SUBSTANDARD Podcast where JVL, Sonny, and Vic analyze the trailer for Zack Snyder's latest opus.

I was, and I remain, one of the few people on this earth willing to state for the record that I thought the 2005 Peter Jackson version of King Kong was terrific. Indeed, I’ve long been of the opinion that most people who have condemned that picture didn't actually see it. It's long and…

The title of the new horror film Get Out alludes to a brilliant Eddie Murphy stand-up bit that is never mentioned in the movie—but a routine the African-American comedian Jordan Peele, who wrote and directed the movie, surely knows by heart. "I was watching movies like Poltergeist and Amityville…

Just how wonderful is the wonderful world of Disney? The Substandard takes on Beauty and the Beast plus best and worst Disney movies. Plus board games! JVL breaks out the Axis & Allies, Vic plots his conquest of Europe, and Sonny hates Monopoly (but loves his Alf Pogs)—all on this week's…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

The title of the new horror film Get Out alludes to a brilliant Eddie Murphy stand-up bit that is never mentioned in the movie—but a routine the African-American comedian Jordan Peele, who wrote and directed the movie, surely knows by heart. "I was watching movies like Poltergeist and Amityville…

King Kong ain't got s—t on the Substandard! This week the show tackles Kong: Skull Island and the monster movie universe. Jonathan explains why size matters—when it comes to King Kong vs. Godzilla. (Don't even get Sonny started on Peter Jackson's King Kong.) And Vic admits to his fear of moths.…

The superhero movie Logan doesn't look, sound, or behave like any other superhero movie ever made. It's set around El Paso and the Mexican border town of Juarez, then in Oklahoma, and finally in North Dakota. It's dusty and gritty and mostly rural, entirely unlike the nine world-capital-hopping…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

The superhero movie Logan doesn’t look, sound, or behave like any other superhero movie ever made. It's set around El Paso and the Mexican border town of Juarez, then in Oklahoma, and finally in North Dakota. It's dusty and gritty and mostly rural, entirely unlike the nine world-capital-hopping…

On this week’s episode, the Substandard takes on Logan and the X-Men series. What does Sonny really think about parents who take their kids to R-rated movies? Plus JVL has a special surprise in store for Vic! All on this week's Substandard!

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

Well, of course Moonlight won the Academy Award. Who’s kidding whom in the year following the dreadful scandal known as #OscarsSoWhite? Sure, it looked like La La Land had it sewn up, so much so that no one batted an eye when it was mistakenly awarded Best Picture for two minutes at the…

It's Gamblers Unanimous on this week's episode: Jonathan and Vic play craps on the high seas while Sonny brings down the house playing poker. Plus the Substandard lists their favorite gambling movies (who doesn't love Teddy KGB?) and bid a sad farewell to Bill Paxton.

Lou Reed would have been 75 years old today. On the occasion of his death in October 2013, THE WEEKLY STANDARD's Lee Smith wrote a rememberance. We reproduce it below:

A very special bonus episode of the Substandard, with JVL, Matus, and Bunch discussing last night's wacky Oscars ending.

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

This week the Substandard tackles the Academy Awards—which films of the past 50 years truly deserved to be Best Picture, which ones didn't, and what movies got snubbed? JVL has the temerity to question American Beauty, Vic only saw part of Blue Lagoon, and Sonny admits he did theater. Please Sonny,…

Are you going to watch the Academy Awards this Sunday? Please don't. You'll only drive yourself crazy. If you love Donald Trump, you'll be outraged at all of the idiotic, self-important protests. If you hate Donald Trump you'll be exasperated that the idiots in Hollywood somehow managed to find the…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

Every now and then a movie comes out of nowhere to surprise you. It’s usually a small-scale piece of genre work whose own producers are likely so relieved just to have it done and get it released that they don't really know they might have something special on their hands. Last year's big surprise…

In the latest Substandard, we celebrate 30 years of Keanu Reeves. Sonny reviews John Wick 2. JVL battles Captain Trips. And Vic makes a run for the border. Plus time travel movies—and a Pizza Hut Platinum Card? All on this week's Substandard!

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

On this week's episode, the Substandard tackles sports movies. Vic goes to Hogwarts. JVL drinks something pink. Hey Sonny, wanna have a catch? Plus a Super Bowl recap and thoughts on Missy Peregrym—stick it!

Hidden Figures is a nice movie with a great subject that makes you feel good about America, reminds you how far we've come since the segregated and male-dominated days of the 1950s, and even reminds us that once we dreamed big about exploring the stars and going to the moon and all that kind of…

Endnotes and digressions from the latest show:

Hidden Figures is a nice movie with a great subject that makes you feel good about America, reminds you how far we've come since the segregated and male-dominated days of the 1950s, and even reminds us that once we dreamed big about exploring the stars and going to the moon and all that kind of…