the Objective Jerk

Embark on a cinematic journey through the lens of Zack Snyder's filmography as we dissect the nuances of his signature style and the strong reactions it elicits within the critic community. This episode peels back the layers of Snyder's work, from the slow-motion spectacle to the moments where the narrative blurs, and we offer a candid take on the films that resonate with us and those that leave us feeling indifferent. Prepare for an insightful analysis that promises to enhance your understanding of storytelling techniques and the polarizing nature of Snyder's creations, as we navigate the complexities of his superhero epics and the subtleties of his lesser-known projects. Grappling with Snyder's unique take on iconic characters, we tackle the transformative storytelling evident in "Man of Steel" and debate the portrayal of Lex Luthor in "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice." Delve into the meticulous detail of the extended cut and how it reshapes the film's narrative. Meanwhile, "Zack Snyder's Justice League" stands as a testament to his vision, and we ponder the potential of a Batman film under his direction. From the ambitious sci-fi saga "Rebel Moon" to the animated finesse of "Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole," we traverse genres and formats, offering a perspective that's as much about the craft of cinema as it is about the immersive experience it promises to viewers.

Awakening from a spell of depression, I find myself grappling with a complex web of issues that tug at the very fabric of our society. We begin by examining the hushed discourse surrounding the Nashville shooter, an event that was shrouded in deafening silence by mainstream media. The shooter's transgender identity, I argue, has led to an unsettling reluctance to engage in necessary conversations. This reticence feeds into broader themes of identity politics and their sway over what we see and discuss publicly. We don't just stop at the surface; we investigate the ethical implications of these editorial choices and call for transparency and open dialogue – a dialogue that we continue on platforms like Rumble, unhindered by the constraints that muzzle mainstream channels. Transitioning from the ripple effects of media silence, we then explore the pervasive influence of pharmaceuticals on societal behavior. Through the lens of my own battles with antidepressants, we confront the stark reality of their dubious efficacy and the potential they hold for exacerbating the very conditions they're meant to treat. Drawing parallels between the storied past of gun culture and the contemporary rise in violence, we ponder the shadowy agendas of pharmaceutical giants and their entwinement with the sudden surge of gender transition clinics. The narrative weaves through historical political unrest and the echoes of communist ideology that some believe have infiltrated modern governance. As we wrestle with these threads, we also reflect on the divisive aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, urging listeners to consider how such dividing lines can catalyze a profound shift in our collective consciousness.

Ever wondered how a Quentin Tarantino film can leave you reeling, yet craving more? Buckle up, cinephiles, as we take a no-holds-barred tour of Tarantino's eclectic filmography. From the gritty opening scenes of "Reservoir Dogs" to the unexpected twists in "The Hateful Eight," I'm spilling my rankings and candid thoughts, holding nothing back. You're invited to weigh in on the debate—do you agree with my take on "Jackie Brown" or does another title capture the essence of Tarantino for you? Prepare to be captivated by the intertwining narratives and unforgettable characters that are the hallmarks of a Tarantino classic. As we dissect each film, I share personal reflections on how "Pulp Fiction" shaped a high school project and why Samuel L. Jackson's varying roles add a complex layer to the director's canvas. It's a conversation filled with admiration for Tarantino's craft, but also a critical eye for the moments that didn't shine as bright. And if you've ever pondered the future of Tarantino's career, join us as we explore his foray into literature and beyond. Our final act is pure speculation about Tarantino's tenth and possibly last directorial piece—a rumored film about a 1970s film critic. While details are scarce, we're stirring the pot of possibilities, anticipating yet another cinematic masterpiece. Share your theories, your top Tarantino moments, or your views on the podcast; we're here for all of it. Thanks for joining me on this rollercoaster of silver screen brilliance, where every turn is as unpredictable as Tarantino's next film.

Rising from the ashes of a creative sabbatical, yours truly, the Objective Jerk, has circled back to the airwaves with musings that traverse the unpredictable terrain of motivation and the curious practice of demarcating podcast seasons. Imagine, if you will, a podcast odyssey that stretches from the whimsical early days alongside "American Kalbo" to the stark silence of a break and the subsequent purging of episodes. Now, as the compulsion to dissect life's absurdities proves inescapable, I'm once again before the mic, divulging tales that steer clear of the news cycle's cacophony. Whether it's replacing social media noise with the rustle of book pages or sharing a parental moment that echoes a story from Objective Jerk's virgin season, the narrative thread weaves a rich tapestry through the world of fiction and the wisdom of the Bible. Nostalgia grips the second act with the recounting of our family's canine cast and their idiosyncratic charms, offering a tribute to a cherished pit bull and the Doberman legend named Katie. The odyssey peaks with a harrowing face-off against a meth-fueled intruder, a tale where canine instinct and human heroics converge to thwart danger. These vignettes illuminate the unspoken bond and unbridled spirit of our four-legged guardians. As we culminate this episode, a clumsy dance with technology can't overshadow the gratitude for your listening ears. As you journey with me through these personal chronicles, your thoughts and reflections are a welcome beacon, guiding our shared path until the next farewell

Ever missed out on an April Fool's prank that you wish you'd pulled off? I come clean about the shenanigans that could have been with my kids and reflect on an Easter adventure that went beyond the usual chocolate egg frenzy. Amid the laughter, we slide into a more sobering conversation sparked by a social media post - a candid exploration of the perplexing ways society sometimes values pets over people, migrants, and even our own neighbors. Even as my dogs test my patience, their unswerving loyalty is a stark contrast to the complexity of human bonds. We also can't help but share a chuckle over an elderly relative's poolside predicament that turned our family outing into an unforgettable comedy of errors. Now, let's kill the lights and talk about the dark corners of horror cinema. Have you ever found yourself cheering for the slasher rather than the doomed teen on screen? I confess to this guilty pleasure, especially when faced with the temptation to switch off a film like the latest Texas Chainsaw Massacre. We wade into the murky waters of horror movie tropes and why they're making villains more appealing than ever. Further dissecting the silver screen, I discuss Hollywood's dance with representation, questioning if a mirrored image is necessary for my enjoyment - Denzel Washington defies that need every time. We'll also break down the true measure of a film's worth: the re-watchability factor, and how it shapes the movies that make it into our personal pantheons - a fresh lens through which we also examine the movie industry's approach to diversity and its impact on audiences

Ever found yourself wistfully reminiscing about the golden days of action cinema, where testosterone and explosions ruled the screen? That's exactly where I found myself recently, pouring over memories of watching "Commando" and "Predator" with my grandfather, and how those moments framed my views on Hollywood's take on realism. Join the conversation as I dissect the "Roadhouse" reboot, sharing unfiltered opinions on how it stacks up to the original and the sometimes contentious discussions that follow. Hear my candid thoughts on missed opportunities in the film's storytelling and the intriguing impact of Jake Gyllenhaal's casting in a role that's become a cult classic. Navigating the minefield of conflict resolution is no small feat, especially when movie critiques turn into impassioned debates. Picture this: a dialogue about a film leads to a silent standoff, and I'm left pondering why some can't seem to agree to disagree. Reflect with me on a recent debate that fizzled into silence and learn why embracing different perspectives is crucial, both in the realm of celluloid and real-life relationships. This episode isn't just about films—it's about the lost art of conversation and why understanding and communication are the bedrock of any meaningful interaction, no matter the subject matter.

Ever been caught in a red tape nightmare? That's where you'll find me in our latest episode, as I unravel the annual ordeal of submitting my kids' birth certificates for a tennis tournament. It's a tale that pits the invaluable against the bureaucratic, where the fear of losing original documents looms large, and the lack of trustworthy family stateside turns a paperwork problem into a personal crisis. Join us as we navigate the international administrative labyrinth and discuss the accountability—or lack thereof—of organizations that play fast and loose with our most precious papers. But our journey doesn't stop at paperwork. We wade into the turbulent waters of racial stereotypes and the media's portrayal of them, triggered by a film title that's as provocative as it is problematic. With memories from the military community as a backdrop, I share anecdotes that cut to the heart of race relations, peeling back layers on a subject that's as delicate as it is profound. From personal brushes with racism to reflections on historical narratives of slavery, we wrestle with the complexities of understanding and challenging prejudice in an ever-evolving society. Lastly, I turn the spotlight on a hobby that's become my post-retirement salvation: silk screen t-shirt printing. Hear how this hands-on craft is more than just pushing ink through mesh—it's a creative lifeline pulling me from the depths of low moods. I'll take you behind the scenes of my home-based print shop, where the hope of reigniting a spark for life is printed onto every t-shirt. And for those curious about the shirt business, I offer my take on the charm of screen printing versus the digital ease of sublimation. So tune in, and maybe you'll be inspired to find your own beacon of hope in the quiet moments.

As a former soldier, the discipline from my army days unexpectedly became my ally in confronting the daily battles of mental health. From the moment the sun peeks above the horizon, my mission is to maintain a routine that steadies the unpredictable waves of mood swings. Today's episode walks you through my morning rituals, the deep comfort I find in the pages of the Bible, and the raw truth about pushing forward when motivation wanes. I'll also share how I navigate the paradox of military life, which can be both a haven and a hazard for mental well-being. And if you're curious, I'll let you in on my latest endeavors: the sparks flying in my blacksmithing side hustle and the modifications I've made to keep mountain biking in my life, despite a troublesome back. Picture this: a symphony of honks and brake lights as I recount how punctuality—a virtue etched into my being during military service—saves the day in the school drop-off line. These anecdotes are not just about beating traffic; they're lessons learned from years of striving to outmaneuver life's little chaos. As we cruise through these stories, we'll contemplate the dance between driving education and experience. But it's not all serious—buckle up for a joyride down memory lane, complete with tales of near-misses with Corvettes, manual transmission mishaps, and the occasional distraction by the less-than-ordinary things we encounter on our commutes. Through it all, we learn that the road, much like life, is full of opportunities for growth and laughter. Join me for a drive down this winding path of reflection and discovery.

#THECROW #THE CROW REBOOT Ever wondered how the competitive edge in your kid's pageant could mirror the cutthroat world of movie franchises? Join me as I reflect on personal experiences with my son's recent pageant performance—where, despite a stellar show, another act's similarity seemed to eclipse his—and draw parallels to the strategic timing plays I've observed in the industry. Revel in our shared pride for his undeniable prowess in public speaking and stage presence, and reminisce with me about the impact of childhood movie experiences, where my older sister played a paramount role. As we stroll down memory lane, we also consider how the topics of films resonate with you, my listeners, and the eclectic mix we've encountered on this podcast journey. Switching to the silver screen, we scrutinize the intricacies of reboot culture through the lens of "The Crow's" upcoming revival and the potential repercussions of staying too close to the original, including Eric Draven's unchanged character. Does the remake have the wings to soar, or will it be grounded by nostalgia? And in an industry that often recycles success, isn't it time we talk about the portrayal of women in action films, especially when it comes to the use of seduction as a weapon? I lay out my thoughts on these hot-button issues, considering the real-life implications and our appetite for content that could either propagate stereotypes or turn them on their head. Tune in for an episode that's as much about the entertainment landscape as it is a candid heart-to-heart on how these narratives shape our perceptions.

Struggling through the fog of depression and the rollercoaster of a possible bipolar disorder, I've had my fair share of tough days, and today's chat is a candid take on those challenges. Reflecting on a therapy session that missed the mark, I peel back the layers on how mood swings can unexpectedly disrupt our journey to wellness. The episode takes an intriguing turn as I recount my days as an Army MP, navigating the complexities of gender identities in a world of rigid military conduct and societal norms. We grapple with the delicate balance of using proper titles and the profound respect due to each individual's gender identity, a dance that is as intricate as it is essential. Woven into our discussion is an examination of the reactions and interactions with transgender individuals, informed by experiences and observations from across the globe, including the Philippines. We spotlight a pivotal moment in the Virginia state legislature, pondering the far-reaching impact of misgendering and the critical pursuit of recognizing gender identities in all public spheres. The episode also features the perspectives of transgender public figures like senator Danica Roem and commentator Blair White, dissecting the evolution of language and etiquette in our collective effort to uphold personal dignity within a tapestry of changing societal expectations. Join us as we unpack these nuanced topics, seeking empathy and understanding in every fold of the conversation.

As I traverse the winding path of America's political and social terrain, it's hard not to feel a sense of longing for a more stable tomorrow. Memories of my service days come rushing back, painting a vivid picture of the critical role Iraqi interpreters played, intertwined with stories of loyalty and deceit. We're considering bringing on a former interpreter, now making his mark as a truck driver here in the US, to share the riveting tale of his transition from war-torn Iraq to the highways that fuel our nation's economy. His unique perspective promises to enrich our understanding of the intricate tapestry that is America's backbone, as well as the individuals who keep it thriving. The episode takes a sober turn as we reflect on a hospital visit that opened my eyes to the stark contrasts in healthcare systems, setting the stage for a broader conversation on American politics and the potential impacts of a Trump comeback. We'll examine the Herculean demands of the presidency and whether Trump's resilience to these stresses sets him apart. The dialogue advances towards the contentious nature of leadership effectiveness and concludes with an enigmatic observation: contrary to his predecessors, Trump's financial journey during his term was anything but lucrative. Join us as we unpack these complex layers, presenting personal anecdotes and political insights that will undoubtedly ignite lively debate and introspection

When tragedy strikes on a movie set, the repercussions ripple beyond the immediate horror, sparking debates and demanding a closer look at the practices we often take for granted. That's exactly where we venture this episode, dissecting the layers of the Alec Baldwin shooting incident, a harsh reminder of the price of negligence. With the spotlight on the inexperienced armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, we unravel the complex thread of decisions that allowed such a catastrophe to unfold. Through a lattice of personal gun safety experiences, we confront the stark reality of what can happen when protocols are disregarded, be it with real firearms or the seemingly innocuous toy guns in children's hands. Navigating the tide of information can be as treacherous as negotiating a mountain pass, and in this episode, we discuss the struggle against Google's algorithms in the quest for unbiased news. We bring you a slice of life from the slopes of Mount Rainier, where a nerf gun game sparks a surprising controversy, highlighting society's complex relationship with firearms—even in play. Join us for a candid conversation that stretches from the reflective echo of a courtroom's facade to the heated debates on accountability and professionalism. This discussion is not just about what went wrong on the set of 'Rust', but also about the broader implications of our collective responsibility in high-stakes environments.

Join me as I whisk you away on a journey back to the carefree days of youth, where the simple act of watching 'Clue' could shape one's taste in cinema for a lifetime. Childhood was a different game back then—latchkey freedom, the early forays into cooking, and the bliss of unsupervised summers are the landscapes we explore, with a side of humor about my 'crap moods' and the quest for small victories like conquering laundry. We'll talk about these formative experiences and how they starkly contrast with today's hyper-vigilant parenting, revealing the layers of nostalgia that movies and memories can hold. Wading into the more critical waters of film and humor, we reflect on the evolution of our laughter and how movies like 'Clue' have a timeless quality in their ability to adapt with us. Remember the days of scratched DVDs and the reluctant transition to Blu-ray? We cover that too, along with the importance of visual fidelity and a fun story about my widescreen evangelism with my dad. As we segue into superhero fatigue and the current cinematic landscape, we candidly discuss the quality of storytelling and my waning interest in superhero flicks amidst a sea of identity politics and checkbox diversity. Here's to hoping that the likes of 'Deadpool' can keep the creative spirit alive in an industry that's become a strange new world of superheroes.

After evading a nasty bug and a crushing creative drought, yours truly, the objective jerk, is back in the game with a punchy critique that's been aching to burst forth. Picture this: the '90s animated X-Men series, ripe for a comeback but shackled by the all-too-familiar grasp of modern political correctness—will it soar with nostalgia or crumble under the weight of contemporary narratives? I'm slicing through the hype with my take on character redesigns and potential plot twists that could spell either revival or ruin in an age where Disney holds the reins. Plus, a nod to the surprise hit of my last conspiracy-themed episode; seems like the truth—or the search for it—really is out there. Switching from the battle of the cartoons to the battleground of the soul, I'm baring my longing for ink-stained authenticity, found only in the weathered hands of a legendary Filipino tattoo artist. Amidst the cacophony of today's media and celebrity circus, I'm hunting for a touch of the real, a brand that whispers tradition over trend. Join me as I navigate the muddled waters of current media, urging you to pick your content like you'd pick your poison—carefully, consciously. Let's peel back the curtain on how the shows we watch and the stars we follow can sculpt our world views, and why it's crucial to choose with intent. Welcome back to the raw, unscripted musings of the objective jerk.

Embark on an auditory expedition that grapples with the enthralling enigmas of conspiracy theories, from whispered talks of the JFK assassination to the contested lunar landing. We tackle the grip these tales have on our perceptions of truth, all while weaving in a personal narrative of my own tussles with the digital tools that shape our stories. Adobe's subscription snags and my return to GarageBand's simplicity take the stage, highlighting the quirks and quandaries of a podcaster's life, including an international scheduling slip-up that's as educational as it is entertaining. As the conversation sails deeper, we navigate the shadowy waters of America's ancient stone wonders and the Psylox structures that pose questions to our historical doctrines. Prepare for a rendezvous with the obscure and the obliterated—a world where whispers of clandestine global resets and architectural annihilation challenge the very fabric of our taught history. With the assistance of channels like 'My Lunch Break' and 'The Why Files,' we invite you to a session charged with curiosity and critical thought, encouraging you to ponder what might lie beneath the surface of the known and the narrated.

Nostalgia for the pigskin parties of my youth clashes with the present disconnect I feel towards the NFL, a sentiment that surges as the Niners and Chiefs prep for the Super Bowl. My musings transcend the simple thrill of touchdowns; they're steeped in the camaraderie of shared moments with my grandfather and military buddies, the devotion to my Minnesota Vikings, and the subsequent disillusionment with a league that seems to have lost its soul. Walk with me down memory lane and through the fog of current controversies, as we explore the complex fabric of football fandom woven through my life's tapestry.

Ever found yourself tangled in the web of Adobe's intricate software suite, or considered a nostalgic return to the simplicity of GarageBand and iMovie? I sure have, and in today's candid chat, I'll be taking you along the bumpy road of my digital content creation journey. It's a tale of grappling with the allure and frustrations of Adobe's offerings, from the initial charm of Photoshop to the ongoing tussle with the Creative Cloud subscription. I even spill the beans on my flirtation with open-source tools like Inkscape and the temptation to swap my trusty Mac for a gaming laptop – a move that could prove revolutionary for my work with Meta PC.

Have you ever felt the thrill of starting anew in a foreign land, only to stumble over the day-to-day quirks that remind you you're not in Kansas anymore? That's the heart of our latest episode – a personal journal entry meets tech talk where I lay bare the complexities of expatriate life in the Philippines, contrasted sharply with the comforts of home in the States. The techie in you will also get a taste of my venture into Adobe Audition, a stark leap from GarageBand's simplicity – and I'm all ears for your thoughts on the shift in audio quality. Navigating the nuances of a new culture can throw you curveballs, and oh, do I have some stories to share. From pondering over the practicalities of maintaining a home here, like wrestling with a stubborn water filtration system, to the local custom of the "tabo" in the absence of hot showers, every day is an unexpected lesson in adaptability. And let's not forget the comical, yet frustrating, scavenger hunt for that elusive electrical plug – a true test of patience when language barriers turn a simple shopping trip into a wild goose chase.

#podmatch #emmys #hollywood When my son gave a simple nod of thanks for his new truck on his 17th birthday, it sparked a profound realization about the complexities of gratitude and how we pass these values on to our children. This episode is a hearty blend of personal reflections on fostering appreciation in the family, seasoned with a delightful dash of daily humor as I recount the tale of a stray cat's unexpected adoption into our clan. The nuances of teaching thankfulness are unwrapped alongside the hilarity of observing our pets' mealtime antics, each responding in their own quirky way to the familiar clatter and bustle of their dinner being prepared. On the flip side, we're peeling back the curtain on society's cooling romance with celebrity culture and the fading glitter of awards season. The Oscars and their kin are losing their shine, and we're chatting about why Hollywood's allure is dimming, considering the potent mix of social media influence, societal shifts, and a dash of 'agenda fatigue.' We navigate through the choppy waters of entertainment evolution, spotlighting the industry's response to "going woke," and the consequent upheavals. And yet, we lift our spirits by shining a light on Denzel Washington's 'Equalizer 3' and others that manage to keep us glued to our screens, proving that cinematic allure isn't entirely lost. Check out the podcast I was recently a guest on! YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VnpuAOpek4 RUMBLE https://rumble.com/v46uymz-183-having-a-causal-political-conversation-with-the-objective-jerk.html PODCAST (AUDIO ONLY) https://shows.acast.com/politically-high-tech/episodes/183-having-a-causal-political-conversation-with-the-objectiv

Navigating the life of a podcaster isn't all smooth sailing, and I've had my fair share of obstacles lately, from wavering motivation to an acute coffee shortage that almost spelled disaster. And while I've been wrangling with these everyday antics, I've also been revisiting the nostalgia-packed "Batman: The Animated Series," which led me to ponder the broader implications of the steady march from DVD collections to streaming services. But it's not all about entertainment; my hands have been busy crafting a DIY basketball backboard for my boy, proving that sometimes, the most fulfilling projects are those that pull us away from the microphone. Yet, it's not just personal anecdotes that shape this episode. I wade into the turbulent waters of societal debates, offering my unfiltered take on topics like the current state of the LGBTQ+ community—a view that will certainly stir the pot. The conversation turns a critical eye towards the authenticity of leadership within activist movements and the pushback against forced diversity in media and academia. Yes, I even throw my two cents into the ring on election integrity and the political climate that's as charged as ever. History doesn't escape scrutiny either, as I challenge mainstream narratives and the recognition of contributions by people of color, inviting listeners to join me in questioning the accuracy of the histories we've been told. As always, I'm here to share, provoke, and engage with you on these complex discussions.

As I reminisce about celebrating Christmas amidst the tropical warmth of the Philippines, I can't help but marvel at how the holiday spirit thrives even without the nippy air and snow-dusted rooftops. This episode is an intimate reflection on the vibrant and heartfelt festivities that light up the streets here, standing in stark contrast to the cold Christmases of my U.S. past. You'll join me in exploring the local traditions that weave a different kind of yuletide magic—where carolers serenade with untiring cheer and the season stretches beyond its calendar confines, spurred by the absence of Thanksgiving.

Ever feel like you have to make everyone agree with your opinion? Particularly when it comes to your favorite comic book heroes? Today, we peel back the layers of fanboy frustrations, the quest for consensus, and the beauty of individuality in the world of comic books. From my discovery of Batman through movies, not comics, to my tragic loss of a beloved comic collection in a flood, we traverse the passionate, often overwhelming world of comic book fandom. Then, the Bat-Signal shines on a new face - Robert Pattinson. Yes, the Twilight star is donning the cape and cowl. We've got mixed feelings about this and dive headfirst into the heated fan debates that followed this casting news. From pining for Ben Affleck's continuation as the Dark Knight to reflecting on past Batman adaptations, we explore the highs, lows, and controversies of the Caped Crusader's cinematic journey. Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through comic-fan debates, casting controversies, and our shared love for the world of superheroes.

This episode will take you on a deep dive into the influence of technology on human interactions and the potential pitfalls of a society heavily dependent on social media. He talks about his personal battles with depression and the constant struggle of finding motivation. Sharing how he keeps going, one small victory at a time.

Ever wondered why the Hollywood bigwigs spend so much on movies that seem to lack quality? Could there be a possibility of money laundering, or are we just witnessing a deluge of incompetence? Placing diversity above qualifications - a noble goal or a recipe for disaster? We delve into the heart of this controversial issue, discussing the potential fallout of prioritizing hires based on race, gender, and sexual orientation.

Ever have a movie that just sticks with you? A film you can watch again and again? For me, that's the Band of Brothers, a series that's been part of my viewing ritual since 2003. This passion for WWII-themed media can be traced back to my grandfather's fascination with the war era - a fascination that, in turn, sparked my interest. Join me as I delve into the impact of WWII on popular culture, and discuss some of my favorites, from "Saving Private Ryan" to "Indiana Jones." I also touch on the anticipation building around the upcoming "Masters of the Air."