Born To Watch - A Movie Podcast

Matthew White

Join four old mates on a cinematic journey like no other in the "Born to Watch Movie Podcast" the podcast where movies aren't just watched, they're experienced. Each week, dive into the films that reshaped their lives and, perhaps, even the world. With many thousands of hours of movie-watching under their belts, these friends bring a unique, seasoned perspective where they don't take themselves or the movies too seriously.

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227 episodes
Updated Tuesday
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Episodes227

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Tuesday · 1 hr 35 min
Crimson Tide (1995)
This week on Born to Watch, we're diving deep beneath the surface for our Crimson Tide (1995) Review, revisiting Tony Scott's tense 1995 submarine thriller starring two absolute acting heavyweights, Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington. It's a film packed with military drama, explosive confrontations, unforgettable performances, and enough pressure to make anyone glad they never enlisted in the Navy. Whitey and Damo return to the captain's chair to break down one of Tony Scott's most underrated films, a movie that proves you don't need endless explosions to create edge-of-your-seat tension. When a US nuclear submarine receives an incomplete launch order during an international crisis, Captain Frank Ramsey (Gene Hackman) and Executive Officer Ron Hunter (Denzel Washington) find themselves locked in a battle that could determine the fate of the entire world. At its heart, Crimson Tide isn't really about submarines or nuclear weapons. It's about leadership. Gene Hackman delivers one of the most intimidating performances of his legendary career as the old-school Captain Ramsey, a man who believes orders are meant to be followed without question. Opposite him is Denzel Washington, calm, measured, and incredibly composed as Hunter, the officer who believes thinking before acting might just save millions of lives. The chemistry between these two acting giants drives every scene. Every conversation feels like a heavyweight boxing match where neither man wants to blink first. Whitey and Damo debate whose side they'd be on, whether Ramsey is a fearless wartime leader or simply an egotistical loose cannon, and whether Hunter's calm approach would really survive under the pressure of nuclear war. Of course, this is Born to Watch, so things quickly drift into discussions about sweaty submarines, impossible flat-top haircuts, George Dzundza somehow fitting through submarine hatches, Tony Scott's signature directing style, Hans Zimmer's early military score, and why James Gandolfini was already becoming Hollywood's go-to bloke for playing absolute jerks before The Sopranos. The boys also revisit Tony Scott's incredible filmography, comparing him to brother Ridley Scott, while reminiscing about classics including Top Gun, True Romance, The Last Boy Scout, Enemy of the State, Man on Fire, Deja Vu and more. Is Tony Scott one of the greatest blockbuster directors of the 1990s? The debate certainly gets underway. As always, there's plenty of Born to Watch goodness along the way. Expect the IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes comparisons, the VHS synopsis, the 1995 Hit, Sleeper and Dud, plenty of movie trivia, questionable observations, and enough laughs to break the tension inside the USS Alabama. The discussion also shines a light on the incredible supporting cast. Viggo Mortensen appears long before becoming Aragorn, James Gandolfini is perfectly cast as another intimidating authority figure, while early performances from Ryan Phillippe and Steve Zahn provide plenty of "I forgot they were in this!" moments. The episode also explores whether Crimson Tide deserves its reputation as one of the greatest submarine films ever made. How does it compare to The Hunt for Red October? Is Gene Hackman's Captain Ramsey one of cinema's best military leaders or one of its most dangerous? Does Denzel Washington quietly deliver one of the finest performances of his career? If you love intense thrillers, powerhouse acting performances, Tony Scott's kinetic filmmaking style, or simply enjoy hearing four mates argue passionately about movies while constantly getting distracted by completely unrelated topics, this episode is for you. So grab your popcorn, secure the launch keys, and prepare to dive deep into one of the smartest action thrillers of the 1990s. Have you seen Crimson Tide? We'd love to know whose side you're on. Was Captain Ramsey right to follow orders without hesitation, or did Hunter make the only decision that could save humanity? Join the conversation across all our social channels and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and tell a movie-loving mate about Born to Watch. Your support helps us keep revisiting the films we all grew up with. #BornToWatch #CrimsonTide #CrimsonTide1995 #MovieReview #TonyScott #DenzelWashington #GeneHackman #90sMovies #FilmPodcast #MoviePodcast
July 28 · 1 hr 54 min
Big Wednesday (1978)
This week on Born to Watch, the boys dive into a true cult classic with our Big Wednesday Movie Review, the coming-of-age surfing epic that has inspired generations of surfers while leaving plenty of movie fans wondering what all the fuss is about. Directed by the legendary John Milius, Big Wednesday isn't just about riding waves; it's about growing up, friendships, the passing of time, and the harsh reality that life eventually catches up with everyone. Whitey, G-Man and Damo paddle out into one of the most personal films ever covered on the podcast, and the discussion quickly reveals a massive divide. For G-Man, this is sacred territory, a film that captures everything he loves about surfing culture and the changing seasons of life. For Whitey, it's a movie full of unanswered questions that leaves him searching for meaning between the swells. Somewhere in the middle sits Damo, appreciating both the spectacular surfing sequences and the emotional weight hidden beneath the surface. The boys break down the journey of Matt, Jack and Leroy, three lifelong mates whose lives unfold across more than a decade as they chase waves, girls, parties, responsibility and eventually the mythical Big Wednesday itself. Is the famous swell simply a perfect wave, or is it a metaphor for life's biggest moments? G-Man comes armed with enough knowledge to teach a university course on the film, explaining the significance of each swell and how every chapter represents another stage of growing older. Along the way, the conversation drifts into everything that makes Born to Watch what it is. Whitey questions why nobody seems capable of explaining anything in 1970s cinema, Damo reminisces about recording surfing competitions onto VHS tapes before the internet existed, and G-Man somehow turns an episode about surfing into a passionate defence of Jan-Michael Vincent's career. Speaking of Jan-Michael Vincent, the boys explore what should have been one of Hollywood's biggest success stories. Blessed with movie star looks and undeniable charisma, Vincent seemed destined to become one of the industry's leading men before a series of personal struggles derailed his career. They also examine the careers of William Katt, Gary Busey, Lea Purcell and the incredible creative team behind the film, including legendary director John Milius and composer Basil Poledouris. As always, the regular segments are packed with laughs. The team looks back at 1978, discussing classics including The Deer Hunter, Grease, Superman, Animal House and Every Which Way But Loose. The Snorb's Report uncovers another unforgettable scene from Animal House, while Hit, Sleeper, Dud delivers recommendations ranging from Midnight Express and The Wild Geese through to the gloriously ridiculous disaster movie The Swarm. Of course, no Born to Watch episode would be complete without random tangents. There are discussions about beach culture, lending surfboards to complete strangers, teenage house parties, Bear's outrageous life choices, surfing legends, Airwolf, The Greatest American Hero, Star Wars auditions, Gary Busey's teeth, and whether anyone has ever actually met an old surfer who correctly predicted the mythical "Big Wednesday". Whether you grew up quoting Matt Johnson, dreamed of chasing perfect waves, or you've never understood surfing culture at all, this episode celebrates a film that means something different to everyone who watches it. Some see an unforgettable surfing movie. Others see one of the greatest coming-of-age stories ever made. Whitey still isn't entirely sure what he watched. So grab a beer, wax the board, paddle out with the boys, and join us as we revisit one of cinema's most beloved cult classics. The waves are building, the friendships are tested, and eventually, Big Wednesday arrives. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share Born to Watch with your mates. Every new listener helps us keep celebrating the movies we all grew up loving, one classic at a time. #BornToWatch #BigWednesday #BigWednesdayMovieReview #MoviePodcast #SurfMovies #JohnMilius #CultClassic #FilmReview #MovieLovers #PodcastAustralia
July 21 · 1 hr 52 min
Air Force One (1997)
This week on Born to Watch, it's time for our Air Force One Movie Review, the movie review podcast where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously. Whitey, G-Man, and Will the Worky climb aboard one of the most patriotic action films ever made, as Harrison Ford swaps his whip and fedora for the Oval Office and proves that sometimes the President really can save the day. Released in 1997 and directed by Wolfgang Petersen, Air Force One became one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, delivering a simple but irresistible premise. Terrorists hijack the President's plane, take his family hostage and quickly discover they've picked a fight with a Commander-in-Chief who just happens to be a Medal of Honour recipient. The boys dive into whether this 90s action favourite still holds up almost three decades later, or whether nostalgia is doing most of the heavy lifting. Harrison Ford once again proves why he remains one of Hollywood's greatest accidental heroes. Whether he's Han Solo, Indiana Jones, Dr Richard Kimble or President James Marshall, Ford has a knack for making ordinary people believe they can survive extraordinary situations. The team discusses why his grounded style works so well and why he's able to elevate even the most over-the-top action movies. Of course, no discussion of Air Force One would be complete without Gary Oldman. His performance as terrorist Ivan Korshunov is as intense as ever, even if the boys question whether one of cinema's greatest actors deserved a stronger script. Along the way, they celebrate Oldman's incredible career, from Leon and True Romance through to The Dark Knight, Darkest Hour and beyond. As always, the movie quickly becomes secondary to the ridiculous questions that only Born to Watch can ask. Just how many parachutes does Air Force One actually carry? Why is everyone smiling after jumping out of a plane somewhere over Kazakhstan? Does a 1997 satellite phone really keep working at 20,000 feet? Why is there an endless supply of drinks hidden in the cargo hold? And how exactly does one MiG fighter somehow survive an entire squadron attack just so the movie can have one more action sequence? The crew also takes aim at some wonderfully cheesy taglines, debates whether this is one of cinema's greatest presidential action thrillers, and wonders if Australians will ever truly understand America's obsession with the presidency. Elsewhere, G-Man delivers another outstanding Ordinary People segment, covering Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, Glenn Close and a cast full of "that guy" character actors you've seen in dozens of movies. There's also a look back at the massive year that was 1997, including Titanic, Men in Black, The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Good Will Hunting. Hit, Sleeper or Dud returns with another trio of recommendations, including Wesley Snipes' underrated Murder at 1600, the Spanish original that inspired Vanilla Sky, and one of the greatest movie titles ever discovered in the Dud category. As always, expect plenty of laughs, terrible impressions, completely unnecessary tangents, and more than a few moments where the logic of Hollywood action films is left hanging out the side of the aircraft. So buckle up, secure your tray table, prepare for decompression, and remember one thing... Get off my podcast! If you enjoy what we do, we'd love your support. Subscribe wherever you listen, leave us a five-star review, share the episode with your mates, and follow Born to Watch across social media. Every listen helps us keep celebrating the movies we all grew up with, one ridiculous review at a time. #AirForceOne #HarrisonFord #GaryOldman #WolfgangPetersen #MovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast #90sMovies #ActionMovies #FilmPodcast #GetOffMyPlane
July 14 · 1 hr 56 min
Interstellar (2014)
The Interstellar (2014) Movie Review has finally landed on Born to Watch, the movie review podcast where we don't take ourselves or the movies too seriously, and this week Whitey, Damo and the G-Man strap themselves into the Endurance to tackle one of Christopher Nolan's most ambitious films. Love it, hate it, or spend three hours trying to figure out what a tesseract actually is, there's no denying that Interstellar is one of the most talked-about science fiction films ever made. Starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine and an unforgettable surprise appearance from Matt Damon, Interstellar blends emotional family drama with mind-bending science in a way very few films have attempted before. Black holes, wormholes, time dilation, gravity, fifth dimensions and Hans Zimmer's thunderous score all combine to create a cinematic experience unlike anything else. The boys break down whether Christopher Nolan's space epic deserves its place among the greatest films ever made or asks just a little too much of its audience. Whitey shares why this remains one of the most emotional cinema experiences of his life and admits that even after multiple viewings, he still discovers new details every time. Damo dives deep into the science behind the film, the incredible soundtrack from Hans Zimmer and why this is a movie that rewards repeat watches. Meanwhile, G-Man experiences Interstellar for the very first time, proving that even a three-hour runtime can't stop Nolan from delivering one unforgettable ride. Of course, this wouldn't be Born to Watch without plenty of laughs along the way. The boys debate whether anyone actually understands the ending the first time around, discuss the emotional devastation of Cooper's relationship with Murph, marvel at Nolan's practical filmmaking techniques and question whether they'd leave their own family behind if they were humanity's last hope. There's plenty of appreciation for Matthew McConaughey's career-best performance, Anne Hathaway's emotional turn, Jessica Chastain's incredible work as the adult Murph, and Matt Damon's unforgettable heel turn, which completely changes the direction of the film. As always, the crew dive into the IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes scores, compares Interstellar against some of the greatest science fiction films ever made, revisits the incredible year that was 2014 in cinema and discusses Christopher Nolan's unbelievable run of films, including Batman Begins, The Prestige, The Dark Knight, Inception and Interstellar. Expect plenty of discussion around Hans Zimmer's legendary score, practical visual effects that still hold up over a decade later and why Interstellar continues to inspire audiences every time it's re-released on the biggest screens possible. Naturally, the famous Born to Watch segments return, including Overs and Unders, Critical Thinking, Ordinary People, Hit, Sleeper, Dud, The Snorbs Report, Quickfire Questions and plenty more movie nonsense that somehow still makes perfect sense. Whether you've watched Interstellar once or twenty times, or you're still trying to work out exactly what happened inside the tesseract, this episode is packed with laughs, passionate movie discussion and enough Christopher Nolan appreciation to make even Professor Brand proud. So grab your headphones, set your coordinates beyond Saturn and join the crew for one of the biggest movie discussions we've ever had. Join the conversation! What did you think of Interstellar? Is it Christopher Nolan's greatest achievement? Does Hans Zimmer deliver the greatest movie score of the modern era? Let us know your thoughts across our social channels, and don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share Born to Watch with your fellow movie lovers. #Interstellar #ChristopherNolan #MatthewMcConaughey #HansZimmer #MovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast #SciFiMovies #FilmPodcast #Interstellar2014 #MoviePodcast
July 7 · 1 hr 41 min
Lethal Weapon 2 (1990)
Lethal Weapon 2 Movie Review is here, and this week we're diving back into one of the greatest action sequels of all time on The Movie Review Podcast, where we don't take the movies or ourselves too seriously. Join Whitey and Damo as they revisit the explosive 1989 classic that proved lightning really can strike twice. With bigger action, bigger laughs, and one unforgettable diplomatic immunity speech, Lethal Weapon 2 remains a benchmark for the buddy cop genre. After the gritty success of the original film, director Richard Donner returned with Mel Gibson and Danny Glover to deliver a sequel that shifted gears without losing what made the franchise special. Instead of doubling down on the darkness, Lethal Weapon 2 leans heavily into comedy while still delivering spectacular action set pieces, memorable villains and the chemistry that made Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh one of cinema's greatest partnerships. Whitey and Damo discuss whether Lethal Weapon 2 is actually better than the original, and why so many fans continue to rank it among the greatest sequels ever made. Is it worthy of being mentioned alongside Aliens, Terminator 2, and The Empire Strikes Back? Or has nostalgia been doing some heavy lifting? As always, the boys break down everything that makes the film unforgettable. From the outrageous opening car chase and the destruction of Murtaugh's family station wagon, through to the South African villains hiding behind diplomatic immunity, every iconic scene gets the Born to Watch treatment. Of course, no discussion of Lethal Weapon 2 would be complete without Leo Getz. Joe Pesci steals almost every scene he's in, introducing one of the franchise's funniest and most quotable characters. Whitey and Damo chat about how Leo changed the series' tone forever, while debating whether the increased focus on comedy was ultimately a strength or a weakness. There is also plenty of appreciation for Mel Gibson at the absolute peak of his powers. Charismatic, reckless and endlessly entertaining, Riggs remains one of the defining action heroes of the 1980s. Danny Glover's dry reactions provide the perfect balance, proving once again why this pairing remains one of Hollywood's greatest double acts. Naturally, the boys can't help themselves when it comes to picking apart the film's logic. Why are the LAPD driving family station wagons during high-speed pursuits? Where did that helicopter suddenly appear from? Why does a caravan explode like it's filled with rocket fuel? And how does every South African henchman seem to carry an entire arsenal beneath a sports coat? The laughs continue with another legendary Snobs Report, a look back at some forgotten gems from 1989, discussion around Richard Donner's incredible directing career, and a celebration of just how good cinema was during the final years of the 1980s. There are plenty of side trips into other classics, including The Omen, Uncle Buck, The Dream Team and more, because one movie conversation is never enough on Born to Watch. As always, you'll get the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Film School for F-Wits, trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, box office numbers, memorable performances and plenty of arguments over whether the sequel really surpasses the original. Whether you grew up watching Lethal Weapon 2 on VHS, caught it at the cinema back in 1989, or you're discovering it for the very first time, this episode is packed with nostalgia, laughs and classic Born to Watch banter. Join the conversation! Do you think Lethal Weapon 2 is the best film in the franchise? Is it one of the greatest action sequels ever made? Let us know your favourite scenes, quotes and moments by leaving a review, commenting on our socials or joining the Born to Watch community. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss another episode. #LethalWeapon2 #MovieReview #BornToWatch #MelGibson #DannyGlover #ActionMovies #BuddyCop #MoviePodcast #EightiesMovies #FilmReview
June 30 · 1 hr 57 min
The Crow (1994)
The Crow (1994) Review is finally here, and the Born to Watch boys are diving headfirst into one of the most iconic cult films of the 1990s. Directed by Australian filmmaker Alex Proyas and forever linked to the tragic death of Brandon Lee during production, The Crow has become far more than just another comic book adaptation. It's a film surrounded by myth, emotion and an unforgettable soundtrack, but does the movie itself still deserve its legendary reputation? Whitey is joined by Gow, Damo and returning fan favourite Adam "Strangles" Strang as they revisit the dark, rain-soaked streets of Detroit to find out whether Eric Draven's tale of love, revenge and redemption still flies more than three decades later. From the opening scene, the boys tackle the elephant in the room. Has The Crow become more famous because of Brandon Lee's tragic passing than because of the movie itself? It's a question that sparks one of the episode's biggest debates as they separate the film from the legend surrounding it. There is no denying the visual impact. Alex Proyas creates one of cinema's most distinctive gothic worlds, drenched in perpetual darkness, flickering fire and endless rain. Whitey argues it could be one of the best-looking films of the decade, while the panel discusses whether the relentless black colour palette enhances the atmosphere or simply makes it impossible to see what's happening half the time. Brandon Lee delivers a performance filled with charisma, physicality and vulnerability as Eric Draven, a murdered musician brought back from the dead by a mysterious crow to seek revenge on the gang responsible for killing him and his fiancée. Along the way, the boys question the film's mythology, wonder why so little is explained about the supernatural rules and debate whether audiences are expected to simply accept everything without asking questions. The laughs continue as the conversation drifts into grandad slippers, Skippy, Video Ezy memories, terrible engagement rings, goth fashion, VHS collections and one of Damo's most detailed Snorbs Reports yet. As always, no tangent is off limits. The cast also comes under the microscope. Michael Wincott's gloriously over-the-top Top Dollar, Ernie Hudson's compassionate Sergeant Albrecht and the unforgettable David Patrick Kelly all receive plenty of love, while the panel reflects on Brandon Lee's short but promising career and imagines what Hollywood might have looked like had tragedy never struck. As the discussion unfolds, comparisons are made to other revenge classics, including John Wick, The Warriors and Darkman, while Whitey questions whether the film spends enough time developing its central love story for audiences to truly care about Eric's mission. The boys also explore the incredible year that was 1994, discussing how The Crow stacked up against cinematic heavyweights like Pulp Fiction, Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption, Speed and The Lion King. It's another reminder of just how stacked one of Hollywood's greatest years really was. Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without the regular favourites. IMDb ratings, Rotten Tomatoes scores, box office numbers, Question Time, the Snorbs Report, hilarious listener interaction and plenty of brutal honesty all feature as the team works towards the all-important final verdict. So, does The Crow still deserve its place among the greatest cult movies ever made? Has its reputation been elevated by tragedy, or is it genuinely one of the defining films of the 1990s? Join Whitey, Gow, Damo and Strangles as they break down every crow, every quote and every questionable fashion choice in another laugh-out-loud episode of Born to Watch. Join the F Wits If you love movies, nostalgia and four mates who aren't afraid to call out the good, the bad and the downright ridiculous, make sure you subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on social media, join the conversation, and let us know whether The Crow deserves its cult-classic status or if the legend has outgrown the film itself. #BornToWatch #TheCrow1994 #BrandonLee #AlexProyas #MovieReview #CultClassic #MoviePodcast #90sMovies #FilmReview #GothicCinema
June 23 · 1 hr 53 min
Any Given Sunday (1999)
Any Given Sunday Review | Born to Watch Podcast Our Any Given Sunday Review takes the Born to Watch boys back to 1999 for Oliver Stone's chaotic, testosterone-fuelled dive into the world of professional football. Featuring Al Pacino, Jamie Foxx, Dennis Quaid and peak Cameron Diaz, Any Given Sunday promised everything a sports movie fan could want. But does it still hold up, or is this one all style and no substance? Whitey, Dan and special guest Will strap on the shoulder pads and revisit Oliver Stone's divisive NFL epic. What starts as a love letter to sports movies quickly turns into an examination of shaky cameras, over-the-top editing, giant egos and one of the most exhausting viewing experiences the boys have tackled in a while. Al Pacino brings his trademark intensity as veteran coach Tony D'Amato, desperately trying to hold together the Miami Sharks while battling a ruthless owner, rebellious players and a rapidly changing game. Jamie Foxx bursts onto the scene as Willie Beamen, the backup quarterback who suddenly becomes a superstar, while Dennis Quaid delivers a solid performance as ageing veteran Cap Rooney. Along the way, the boys discuss why Oliver Stone seems determined to assault your eyeballs with every editing trick imaginable. From subliminal gladiator imagery to frantic camera work and changing film stock, Whitey wonders whether the movie is trying too hard to be profound. Dan compares it to Natural Born Killers and argues that Stone's style overwhelms the actual story. The conversation naturally branches out into memories of 1999, drunken phone calls, encounters with Elizabeth Berkley, backup quarterbacks becoming heroes, and whether there is a more pressure-filled position in sport than an NFL quarterback. There's also plenty of appreciation for the stacked cast. James Woods shines as the dodgy doctor, LL Cool J delivers one of the biggest dickheads in sports movie history, and Lawrence Taylor proves real athletes can occasionally act. Meanwhile, Cameron Diaz splits the room, with Whitey refusing to give prime Diaz a quickfire vote despite the objections of everyone else. As always, the boys go deep into the IMDb ratings, box office numbers and critical reviews before throwing around comparisons to Varsity Blues, Office Space, American Beauty and other classics from the legendary year of 1999. But the biggest question remains. Is Any Given Sunday a genuine sports classic, or is it simply a two-and-a-half-hour migraine wrapped in slow motion and Kid Rock? One thing is certain. Whether they're discussing football strategy, Oliver Stone's obsession with gladiators or the horrors of professional athlete fashion, Whitey, Dan and Will once again prove that no movie is safe when it lands on Born to Watch. Join the Team Love movies? Love ridiculous debates? Join the Born to Watch community and become part of the conversation. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media for new episodes, movie polls and plenty of laughs. Because at Born to Watch, we don't take movies or ourselves too seriously. #BornToWatch #AnyGivenSunday #OliverStone #AlPacino #JamieFoxx #DennisQuaid #SportsMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmReview #NFLMovies
June 16 · 2 hr
Project Hail Mary (2026)
This week on Born to Watch, the boys boldly go where they rarely venture, into the world of brand-new cinema, with their Project Hail Mary Movie Review. Based on Andy Weir’s bestselling novel and directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this 2026 sci-fi epic arrives with huge expectations, a massive budget, and one very important question: can modern Hollywood still make crowd-pleasing blockbuster entertainment that leaves audiences smiling? Whitey, Damo and special guest Will the Worky strap themselves into the Hail Mary spacecraft and dive headfirst into one of the biggest films of the year. With Ryan Gosling leading the charge as Ryland Grace, a reluctant hero tasked with saving humanity from extinction, the crew break down a film that combines hard science, emotional storytelling, spectacular visuals and a surprising amount of humour. The boys discuss their experiences seeing the film on the big screen and whether Project Hail Mary is exactly the kind of cinematic event modern audiences have been craving. In an era where many blockbuster films come and go without leaving a lasting impression, this one feels different. It has heart, humour, intelligence, and a genuine sense of wonder that recalls the classic Spielberg and Lucas adventures of decades past. One of the major talking points is Ryan Gosling's performance. Already one of Hollywood's biggest stars, Gosling continues to prove that he can effortlessly jump between drama, comedy and action. From The Nice Guys to Barbie, he has become one of the few modern actors who are completely willing to take the piss out of themselves, and the Born to Watch crew debate whether anyone in Hollywood currently does it better. Of course, no discussion of Project Hail Mary would be complete without talking about Rocky. The mysterious alien engineer quickly became a fan favourite after the book's release, and the boys examine why Grace and Rocky's relationship forms the emotional core of the entire film. What could have been a simple science-fiction adventure evolves into a story about friendship, sacrifice and finding the courage to do the right thing when everything is on the line. Will brings his unique perspective to the conversation after recently finishing the novel, comparing key elements of the book and film while highlighting what made Andy Weir's source material so compelling in the first place. The team also dives into the science behind the story, exploring the concept of astrophage, interstellar travel and whether the movie’s scientific ideas hold up under scrutiny. As always, the discussion goes far beyond the movie itself. There are debates about modern cinema, movie-going habits, blockbuster filmmaking, favourite Ryan Gosling performances, German stoicism, Bunnings sausage sandwiches and plenty of classic Born to Watch chaos along the way. The boys also explore the emotional journey of Ryland Grace, from a brilliant scientist hiding from responsibility to a man willing to sacrifice everything for a friend. It is this character arc that elevates Project Hail Mary above standard blockbuster fare and transforms it into something genuinely memorable. So is Project Hail Mary the best movie of 2026 so far? Does it belong alongside modern sci-fi classics like Aliens? And can a giant alien rock really make grown adults emotional? There is only one way to find out. Join the Mission Have you read the book? Did the movie live up to your expectations? Is Ryan Gosling the most likable movie star in Hollywood? Where does Project Hail Mary rank among the best sci-fi films of the last decade? Let us know in the comments and join the conversation. If you love movie reviews, blockbuster debates, sci-fi adventures and plenty of laughs along the way, subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts. #ProjectHailMary #ProjectHailMaryMovieReview #RyanGosling #BornToWatch #MovieReview #SciFiMovies #AndyWeir #RockyTheAlien #FilmPodcast #MoviePodcast
June 9 · 2 hr 5 min
The Sixth Sense (1999)
This week on Born to Watch, the boys take on one of the most iconic psychological thrillers ever made in this The Sixth Sense 1999 Review. Released in the legendary movie year of 1999, M. Night Shyamalan's breakthrough film became a cultural phenomenon, launching a career, creating one of cinema's most famous twists, and leaving audiences speechless as they walked out of theatres around the world. Whitey, G-Man and Damo dive deep into the movie that turned Haley Joel Osment into a household name and gave Bruce Willis one of the most memorable performances of his career. More than 25 years later, does The Sixth Sense still hold up? Does the twist remain effective in an era where spoilers dominate social media? And is this actually M. Night Shyamalan's best film? The crew discuss their memories of first seeing the movie back in 1999, when audiences had the rare opportunity to experience a genuine cinematic surprise before the internet ruined it. They explore how The Sixth Sense became the second-highest-grossing film of the year, behind only Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, and why it remained one of the most talked-about movies of its generation. Of course, the discussion turns to Bruce Willis and whether this represents the finest acting performance of his career. Known primarily as an action star through films like Die Hard, The Last Boy Scout and Armageddon, Willis took a very different path with Dr Malcolm Crowe. The boys examine how his understated performance anchors the film while allowing Haley Joel Osment to steal almost every scene he appears in. Speaking of scene-stealers, there is plenty of love for Haley Joel Osment. The team revisits his incredible performance as Cole Sear and debates his ranking among the greatest child actors in movie history. From his emotional vulnerability to the maturity he brought to the role, it is easy to see why he received an Academy Award nomination at such a young age. The conversation also shines a spotlight on Australia's own Toni Collette. Her heartbreaking performance as Cole's mother remains one of the emotional centres of the film, and the boys discuss whether she was unlucky not to walk away with Oscar gold. The famous car scene receives particular attention, with everyone agreeing it remains one of the most powerful emotional moments in modern cinema. As always, Born to Watch goes beyond the movie itself. The crew look back at the incredible films released in 1999, discusses where The Sixth Sense sits among the all-time great thrillers, and compares it with other famous twist-ending films that followed in its wake. They also explore how Shyamalan's success with this movie may have created impossible expectations for every project that came afterwards. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, stories, random tangents, movie trivia and classic Born to Watch chaos. From airline horror stories to debates about movie awards, nothing is safe once the boys get rolling. So does The Sixth Sense deserve its reputation as a modern classic? Is the twist still one of the greatest reveals in cinema history? And where does it rank among the best films of 1999? There is only one way to find out. JOIN THE CONVERSATION When did you first see The Sixth Sense? Did you figure out the twist before the ending? Is this M. Night Shyamalan's best movie? Where does Haley Joel Osment rank among the greatest child actors of all time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion. If you love movie reviews, nostalgia, classic cinema debates and a few completely unhinged tangents along the way, make sure you subscribe to Born to Watch wherever you get your podcasts. #TheSixthSense #TheSixthSenseReview #BornToWatch #MovieReview #BruceWillis #HaleyJoelOsment #ToniCollette #MNightShyamalan #1999Movies #PsychologicalThriller
June 2 · 1 hr 55 min
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
The boys are back for part two of the Born to Watch fourth birthday celebration, and this week’s feature is Quentin Tarantino’s love letter to a vanished era, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Review. Set against the backdrop of 1969 Los Angeles, this is Tarantino at his most nostalgic, most personal, and possibly most indulgent, but when it looks this good and feels this immersive, who cares? Whitey, Damo and G-Man dive deep into the neon-soaked streets of old Hollywood, where television cowboys still mattered, stuntmen drank beer on rooftops, and everyone smoked enough cigarettes to shorten their lifespan by 20 years. From Rick Dalton's crumbling confidence to Cliff Booth's effortless cool, the crew break down why this film becomes richer with every rewatch. The boys discuss how the movie completely subverts expectations, especially if you walk in expecting a full Charles Manson story. Instead, Tarantino delivers something far more emotional and reflective, a fairy tale about fading relevance, friendship, loneliness and the death of an era. Whitey explains how his first viewing left him confused, but his second cinema trip completely changed the way he saw the film, shifting focus away from the Manson backdrop and onto Rick Dalton's fear that Hollywood has passed him by. There's plenty of love for Leonardo DiCaprio's performance as Rick Dalton, with Damo calling it one of the actor's best ever performances. The boys unpack how brilliantly DiCaprio balances insecurity, desperation, and ego, especially in scenes where Rick spirals after forgetting his lines or fearing he's become yesterday's news. Brad Pitt's Oscar-winning turn as Cliff Booth also gets the praise it deserves, with the crew debating whether Cliff might actually be one of Tarantino's coolest characters ever. Naturally, the conversation turns toward the ridiculous depth of the cast. From Margot Robbie as Sharon Tate to Al Pacino, Timothy Olyphant, Dakota Fanning, Austin Butler, Luke Perry, Damian Lewis, Bruce Dern and Australian actor Damon Herriman as Charles Manson, this movie is stacked from top to bottom. The boys even debate whether this is Tarantino's deepest cast ever assembled. And because this is Born to Watch, things quickly descend into absolute chaos. There are discussions about Playboy Mansion parties, giant murals of yourself in your garage, Strangles learning what a queef is, and whether anyone alive could realistically resist picking up Margaret Qualley and Sydney Sweeney hitchhiking on the side of the road in 1969 Hollywood. The episode also covers: Tarantino's recreation of 1969 Los Angeles The unbelievable soundtrack and radio advertisements Why the movie feels like it was made in the late '60s The brilliance of the Spahn Ranch sequence The film's Oscar success and controversial losses Why the ending works so perfectly Brad Pitt's effortless charisma Margot Robbie is somehow becoming even more beautiful in every scene The insane amount of smoking throughout the film Why Tarantino's "fantasy history" trilogy keeps working There's also another loaded Snorbs Report Special, some underrated 2019 movie recommendations, and more random nonsense than should legally fit into one podcast episode. Whether you're a lifelong Tarantino obsessive or someone who only recently discovered Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, this episode celebrates everything that makes the film unforgettable: the atmosphere, the performances, the music, the humour, and the strange, bittersweet feeling that Hollywood itself was changing forever. So if you love movie deep dives, behind-the-scenes trivia, outrageous tangents, and three Aussie blokes talking absolute rubbish while somehow stumbling into genuine film analysis, this is the episode for you. JOIN THE CONVERSATION 💬 Is Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Tarantino's best-looking film? 💬 Was Brad Pitt or Leonardo DiCaprio better? 💬 Did the ending completely catch you off guard the first time? 💬 Is Cliff Booth secretly Tarantino's coolest character ever? 💬 And how many cigarettes were actually smoked during this movie? 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere good podcasts live. #OnceUponATimeInHollywood #QuentinTarantino #LeonardoDiCaprio #BradPitt #MargotRobbie #BornToWatch #MoviePodcast #FilmReview #HollywoodMovies #Tarantino
May 26 · 2 hr 12 min
Kill Bill Vol.1 (2003)
Kill Bill Vol. 1 Review is finally here, and for the fourth birthday episode of Born to Watch, the boys celebrate in style with one of the most stylish revenge films ever made. Quentin Tarantino's blood-soaked martial arts epic gets the full Born to Watch treatment as Whitey, Dan, and Will "The Worky" dive headfirst into samurai swords, anime flashbacks, outrageous violence, feet discourse, and the pure chaos of Tarantino at his most indulgent. From the very beginning, the episode feels like a celebration. It's four years of Born to Watch, Will's "Grecoversary," and a return to one of Quentin Tarantino's most rewatchable movies. The crew break down why Kill Bill: Vol. 1 still hits over twenty years later, and whether it stands as Tarantino's ultimate "put it on anytime" movie. Whitey argues that this was his go-to Tarantino film for over a decade because of how effortlessly entertaining it is, while Dan arrives ready to throw counterpunches at the cult classic. The boys unpack the movie's simple but effective revenge story as Uma Thurman's Bride awakens from a coma and begins slicing her way through the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad. Along the way, the episode explores Tarantino's obsession with genre worship, kung fu cinema, spaghetti westerns, exploitation films and anime influences. Is Kill Bill all style and no substance? Or is the style itself the substance? Dan argues the film feels more like a "comic book brought to life," while Whitey believes this marks the beginning of Tarantino's fantasy era that would continue through Inglourious Basterds and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. There's also plenty of classic Born to Watch chaos scattered throughout the episode. The guys go on hilarious tangents about actor-musicians, Russell Crowe's band, Steven Seagal blues music, David Carradine's infamous death, and whether Bill has slept with every member of the Deadly Viper squad. It’s the kind of completely unhinged movie conversation only this podcast can deliver. The episode also dives deep into the standout performances. Uma Thurman's iconic turn as The Bride gets huge praise, while Lucy Liu's O-Ren Ishii is highlighted as one of the movie's best characters. The crew discuss Tarantino's talent for taking actors and reinventing them on screen, with Michael Madsen, Vivica A. Fox, Sonny Chiba and Daryl Hannah all getting their flowers. There's also a passionate discussion about Battle Royale, Oldboy, and the wave of Asian cinema influences that shaped Kill Bill into the movie it became. Naturally, the conversation turns toward the movie's most unforgettable moments. The House of Blue Leaves showdown gets dissected as one of the greatest action sequences ever filmed, while the anime origin story sequence sparks debate about whether it still works today or feels like pure Tarantino excess. The boys also tackle some of the film's more uncomfortable scenes, including Buck the hospital orderly, the Achilles tendon slicing scene, and Quentin Tarantino's famously obvious foot fetish. As always, there are laughs, arguments, wildly inappropriate observations, and genuine film appreciation mixed throughout the episode. This isn't a polished film school analysis. It’s three mates sitting around celebrating movies the way movie fans actually talk about them. So if you love Quentin Tarantino, martial arts mayhem, over-the-top revenge stories, or just want to hear three Aussie blokes spiral into conversations about samurai swords, pubes, Steven Seagal and Shane Warne in the middle of a movie review, this episode is absolutely for you. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Is Kill Bill: Vol. 1 Tarantino's most rewatchable movie? Which member of the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad was your favourite? Do you prefer Volume 1 or Volume 2? Is the House of Blue Leaves sequence the greatest action scene ever filmed? And seriously… are Uma Thurman's feet even that good? #KillBill #KillBillVol1 #QuentinTarantino #BornToWatch #MoviePodcast #UmaThurman #LucyLiu #MartialArtsMovies #CultMovies #FilmPodcast
May 19 · 56 min
1982: A Year in Review
This week on Born to Watch, Whitey flies solo for a massive deep dive into 1982: Year in Review, revisiting one of the most important, influential and completely stacked years in cinema history. While 1982 might not officially hold the crown as the greatest movie year ever, it delivered a collection of films that completely changed Hollywood forever. In this special episode, Whitey breaks down how one single year gave us E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Blade Runner, The Thing, First Blood, Rocky III, Poltergeist, Conan the Barbarian and Tron all within the same incredible stretch of cinema history. Whitey explores the insane eight-week period where science fiction and fantasy films absolutely rewired Hollywood forever. It was the year when genre filmmaking exploded, CGI truly began, practical effects reached their peak, and audiences somehow ignored two movies that are now regarded as masterpieces: Blade Runner and The Thing. There's a huge breakdown of the 1982 box office top ten, including Whitey revisiting Spielberg's emotional masterpiece E.T., which held the box office record for an entire decade. He reflects on how modern kids' movies rarely hit adults emotionally the same way they once did, admitting E.T. absolutely destroyed him on the cry meter during a recent rewatch. The episode also revisits cult favourites like First Blood, with Whitey passionately defending it as one of the great character-driven action films of the 1980s. There's love for Stallone's unbelievable double act of releasing both Rocky III and First Blood in the same year, proving just how dominant Sly was during the early 80s. Whitey also dives into why Rocky III remains one of the best Rocky films ever made, praising Mr T as one of the greatest movie villains of the decade and celebrating the pure charisma he brought to Clubber Lang despite having no acting experience. Australian cinema gets its flowers too, with a huge spotlight on Mad Max 2 and The Man from Snowy River. Whitey argues that both films stand proudly alongside any Hollywood blockbuster of the era and explains how Mad Max 2 became the blueprint for almost every post-apocalyptic movie that followed. There's also a deep appreciation for practical effects and filmmaking craftsmanship throughout the episode. Whitey passionately argues that The Thing still contains the greatest practical creature effects ever put to screen, while Blade Runner's vision of a futuristic Los Angeles remains one of the most influential science fiction worlds ever created. Along the way, there are classic Born to Watch tangents and stories, including: Whitey is getting in trouble in Year 4 after explaining an infamous scene from The World According to Garp Childhood memories of The Pirate Movie soundtrack The bizarre success of Porky's Why does Tootsie make more money than Blade Runner feel completely wrong How Grease 2 became one of the ugliest moments of 1982 cinema Whitey also celebrates underrated classics like Firefox, Creepshow, Fast Times at Ridgemont High and 48 Hrs., while exploring how 1982 represented a time when studios were still willing to take massive creative risks on strange, ambitious and original films. This is one of the biggest movie deep dives Born to Watch has ever done, packed full of nostalgia, movie trivia, hilarious stories and genuine love for cinema. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Was 1982 the greatest movie year ever? What’s the best film released in 1982? Blade Runner or The Thing? Rocky III or First Blood? Is Mad Max 2 the greatest Australian action film ever made? #1982Movies #MovieYearInReview #BornToWatch #BladeRunner #TheThing #RockyIII #FirstBlood #MadMax2 #ET #MoviePodcast
May 12 · 1 hr 57 min
Creed (2015)
In this week's episode of Born to Watch, the boys step back into the ring for a full Creed 2015 Movie Review, diving deep into the legacy sequel that had the impossible task of continuing one of cinema's most iconic franchises. The Rocky series is sacred ground for movie lovers, sports fans and anyone who's ever wanted to punch frozen meat in a warehouse while inspirational music blasts in the background. But can Creed escape the shadow of Rocky Balboa and become something more than just another nostalgia cash grab? Whitey, G-Man and Dan on the Land lace up the gloves to unpack Ryan Coogler's 2015 boxing drama starring Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone and Tessa Thompson. The boys discuss whether Adonis Creed's search for identity mirrors the movie's own struggle to forge a new path while still leaning heavily on the Rocky formula fans know and love. The crew debates whether Creed should've been a "hit it and quit it" one-off film, with Whitey arguing the sequels may have actually hurt the legacy of the original movie. There's also a breakdown of the emotional parallels between Rocky and Apollo Creed, why sports movies continue to hit men directly in the soul, and whether boxing films are basically mandatory viewing for blokes everywhere. Dan on the Land brings his own unique "pugilist" expertise to the review after heading straight from boxing training into the recording session. Naturally, this leads to discussions about outlaw dirt bike gangs, whiskey-throttling into barbed wire fences, and whether Michael B. Jordan actually fights like a real boxer or just looks good doing it on camera. The boys also dive into the film's incredible cinematography, especially the famous one-shot fight scene against Leo Sporino. Dan explains why the boxing choreography in Creed is miles ahead of the original Rocky films, while Whitey questions whether the movie rushes Adonis into world-level fights too quickly without earning it first. There's a huge conversation about the movie's emotional side, too. Does Creed actually succeed as a character study in the same way the original Rocky did? Was Rocky's cancer storyline genuinely moving or just emotional manipulation? And did the filmmakers wait too long before finally unleashing the iconic Rocky music cues everyone was waiting for? As always, the episode goes completely off the rails in classic Born to Watch fashion. The boys somehow detour into discussions about awkward TV scenes, The Wire connections, Ryan Gosling in The Big Short, The Hateful Eight, bum jokes, cowboy hats in Cape Town clubs, and why Whitey believes Pretty Ricky Conlan is one of the weakest final opponents in the entire Rocky universe. There's also a deep dive into Ryan Coogler's career, including Fruitvale Station, Black Panther and Sinners, plus a breakdown of Michael B. Jordan's rise to superstardom. The boys discuss Stallone's Oscar-nominated performance as Rocky Balboa and whether he was robbed of the Academy Award after winning the Golden Globe. On top of all that, you'll get the usual Born to Watch segments, including Overs and Unders, Hit/Sleeper/Dud, box office breakdowns, Rotten Tomatoes scores, and the famous Critical Thinking segment where the boys tackle the important questions, like whether you can realistically wear a grey tracksuit into a hip hop club. If you love boxing movies, Rocky nostalgia, hilarious tangents and three Aussie idiots trying to unpack one of the best sports dramas of the modern era, this episode is for you. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Is Creed the best Rocky movie since the original? Did the sequels ruin the legacy of Creed? Was Stallone robbed of the Oscar? And most importantly… could you catch the chicken? #Creed #Rocky #CreedReview #MichaelBJordan #SylvesterStallone #BoxingMovies #BornToWatch #MoviePodcast #SportsMovies #FilmReview
May 5 · 2 hr 8 min
The 80's Action Movie Draft
80's Action movie Draft is here, and this week Born to Watch flips the script with something completely different… and completely unhinged. Instead of breaking down a single film, the boys jump into a full snake draft to build the ultimate lineup of 80s action movies. It sounds simple. It absolutely is not. Whitey, Dan, Bones and DJ Glaz enter the draft with a clear plan… which lasts about 30 seconds. The rules are straightforward. Every pick must be an action movie released between 1980 and 1989. The draft runs snake style, meaning the order flips every round. You get limited time to make your pick, justify it, and then immediately deal with the fallout from everyone else. And there is plenty of fallout. From the opening pick, it's clear this isn't just about building the best list. It's about blocking each other, ruining strategies, and making sure no one else gets the movie they really want. There are early shocks, questionable decisions, and a few moments where you can feel the panic set in as certain films start disappearing off the board quicker than expected. What makes this episode work is the mix of chaos and nostalgia. As each round unfolds, the boys dive into what made 80s action so iconic. This was the era of larger-than-life heroes, ridiculous plots, and one-liners that still get quoted today. These weren't just movies; they were part of growing up. There are stories about watching films on VHS, rewinding scenes over and over again, and seeing certain moments for the first time way earlier than probably appropriate. It's the kind of nostalgia that hits immediately if you grew up anywhere near this era. At the same time, the strategy element starts to creep in. Do you take the obvious pick early, or risk it sliding? Do you go sentimental, or try to build the strongest possible lineup? Do you play your own game, or just focus on destroying everyone else's? The answers change round by round. There are moments of pure satisfaction when a pick lands perfectly… and immediate regret when someone else snipes the next one. You can hear it in real time, the shift from confidence to panic as the board starts thinning out. And then there's the banter. This is Born to Watch at its absolute best. Constant interruptions, side stories that go nowhere, ridiculous comparisons, and the kind of insults that only come from years of watching movies together. The draft becomes less about the movies and more about the personalities behind the picks. By the halfway mark, things are properly heated. Lists are starting to take shape, but so are the arguments. Everyone is convinced they're building the best lineup, and no one is willing to admit they've made a bad pick. The tension builds as the rounds continue, with a few wildcard selections thrown in just to keep things unpredictable. By the end, the big question isn't just what movies were picked… It's who actually won. Is it the person with the strongest overall list? The smartest strategy? Or the one who managed to survive the chaos without completely losing their mind? One thing is guaranteed: you'll be yelling at your speakers, thinking of the movies you would have taken. And that’s exactly the point. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Who had the best draft? What's the greatest 80s action movie of all time? And what did we miss? #80sAction #MovieDraft #BornToWatch #ActionMovies #80sMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmDraft #ClassicMovies #Podcast #Cinema
April 28 · 2 hr 20 min
Forrest Gump (1994)
Forrest Gump 1994 Review is here, and this week the boys take on one of the most iconic, quoted, and emotionally loaded films of all time… but not everything is as sweet as that box of chocolates. Whitey, Damo, and the Work Experience Kid (still fighting for a full-time contract) dive into Forrest Gump, the Oscar-winning classic starring Tom Hanks as the unforgettable Forrest. From the jump, the episode sets the scene: 1994 was an all-time year for cinema, with heavy hitters like Pulp Fiction and The Shawshank Redemption… yet somehow, Forrest Gump took home Best Picture. So the big question is simple: Did it deserve it? The boys unpack the full journey of Forrest, from a kid with leg braces to a college football star, Vietnam hero, shrimp tycoon, and accidental witness to some of the biggest moments in American history. It's a movie that covers decades, and as the crew point out, it's almost impossible to summarise because Forrest does everything. But what makes this episode hit differently is the rewatch factor. Whitey admits he came into this expecting to pick the film apart… and instead found himself seeing it through a completely different lens. What once felt like an overly sentimental crowd-pleaser now hits harder, especially with age, experience, and a different perspective on life. Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without some serious scrutiny. Jenny becomes a major talking point, and not in a good way. The boys don't hold back, questioning whether she might actually be one of the most frustrating characters they've ever covered. From constantly running away to treating Forrest like a fallback, her actions spark a heated debate over whether she's broken, selfish, or just plain awful. There's also plenty of classic banter around the film's more absurd elements. The logic of certain scenes, the behaviour of random bus passengers, and even the practicality of surviving a rock to the head all get the Born to Watch treatment. And then there's the emotion. Despite all the jokes, this movie still lands. Hard. The final act, particularly Forrest's relationship with his son, pushes the crew into territory they weren't expecting. For a film that can feel light and whimsical at times, it knows exactly when to hit you where it hurts. The soundtrack also gets its moment, and rightly so. Packed with iconic tracks from across the decades, it's one of the most memorable musical lineups in film history, perfectly capturing each era Forrest drifts through. By the end of the episode, the boys are left with a complicated verdict. Forrest Gump might not be perfect. It might be overly sentimental. It might even be a bit too long. But it's also something more. It's a film about perspective, simplicity, loyalty, and seeing the world in a way most people forget how to. And maybe that's why it still resonates. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Did Forrest Gump deserve Best Picture over Pulp Fiction? Is Jenny misunderstood… or just the worst? And where does Forrest rank among the greatest movie characters ever? #ForrestGump #MoviePodcast #BornToWatch #90sMovies #FilmReview #TomHanks #MovieReview #ClassicMovies #Podcast #Cinema
April 21 · 1 hr 29 min
Face Off (1997)
Face Off 1997 Review is here, and this week the boys take a long, hard look at one of the biggest action blockbusters of the 90s… and ask the question, what the hell happened? Whitey and Gow dive back into Face/Off, the John Woo-directed chaos fest starring John Travolta and Nicolas Cage, a film that once felt groundbreaking but now might just be completely cooked. Right from the start, the boys acknowledge the harsh reality of revisiting old favourites. What once felt like peak cinema now feels like a two-hour fever dream filled with slow motion, overacting, and some of the most questionable plot logic ever put to screen. Whitey sums it up best: the rose-coloured glasses are officially in the bin. The episode kicks off with reflections on the late 90s blockbuster era, a time when bigger always meant better. More explosions, more slow-mo, more everything. And Face Off might just be the ultimate example of that excess. Directed by John Woo, the film leans hard into his signature style, doves, dual pistols, slow motion, and operatic action, but the question is whether it still holds up today. There's a deep dive into the performances, particularly the bizarre dynamic where Travolta and Cage are essentially playing each other. The boys break down the "Cage-ness" of Travolta and the "Travolta-ness" of Cage, and how both actors dial everything up to eleven. Sometimes it works, sometimes it absolutely does not. The plot itself, a cop and a terrorist swapping faces to stop a bomb, gets absolutely torn apart in classic Born to Watch fashion. The more the boys think about it, the less sense it makes. From the prison logic to the healing time of the face surgery, to the complete lack of awareness from literally every other character, the questions just keep piling up. One of the biggest talking points is the film's runtime. At over two hours, it feels bloated, especially given the endless slow-motion sequences. What could have been a tight, high-energy action flick instead becomes a drawn-out spectacle that struggles to justify its length. That said, it's not all bad. There are moments where the film still delivers. The core concept is undeniably bold; the action sequences, while over-the-top, are memorable; and there's a certain nostalgic charm to seeing two massive 90s stars go head-to-head in such a ridiculous premise. The boys also touch on how the film compares to other Cage-era action hits like The Rock and Con Air, with a general consensus that Face Off might be the weakest of the bunch, mainly because it takes itself just a bit too seriously. As always, the episode blends genuine film analysis with plenty of laughs, questionable impressions, and absolute disbelief at some of the film's creative decisions. If you loved this movie growing up, prepare to have your memories challenged. And if you’ve never seen it, well… maybe keep those expectations in check. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Has Face Off aged badly, or are we being too harsh? Is this peak 90s action or complete chaos? And who did it better, Cage or Travolta? #FaceOff #MoviePodcast #BornToWatch #90sMovies #ActionMovies #NicolasCage #JohnTravolta #FilmReview #MovieReview #Podcast
April 14 · 1 hr 49 min
Poltergeist (1982)
The Poltergeist 1982 Review is here, and this one sits right in that sweet spot of childhood nostalgia and genuine horror. Back in the day, this was the movie that introduced a lot of us to scary films, not full nightmare fuel, but just enough to mess with your head when the lights went out, and the TV started crackling. This week, Whitey, Damo, and special guest Bones dive into one of the most iconic supernatural films of the 80s, and the big question is simple: Does Poltergeist still hold up in 2026, or is it just a gateway horror that we've all outgrown? Straight out of the gates, the boys tap into what made this film so memorable: the everyday setting. A normal suburban house, a normal family, and then chaos. No castles, no haunted mansions, just your lounge room turning against you. As Whitey points out early, the idea that something as harmless as a TV could become the centre of pure evil is what makes this movie stick. Damo leans into the horror side of things, admitting that this one genuinely got under his skin as a kid. And it's easy to see why. From the clown doll to the tree scene and the infamous "They're here" moment, there are multiple sequences that hit differently when you're young. Watching it back now, though, the question becomes whether those moments still land, or if they've lost their punch. Enter Bones, who brings a slightly different perspective. While most people have this film high on their childhood watch list, he admits it never really made it into his rotation. When you're choosing between Rocky, Raiders, or Predator, Poltergeist just didn't get a look in. And that creates an interesting dynamic. Is this movie elevated by nostalgia, or does it genuinely stand on its own? What quickly becomes clear is that this film is better than it probably should be. The performances, especially from JoBeth Williams and Craig T. Nelson, give the movie real weight. The family dynamic feels believable, and when things start going wrong, you actually care. That’s not always the case with horror films, especially from this era. The boys also break down the pacing, which is one of the film's more interesting aspects. There are long stretches of calm, almost too calm, before things escalate quickly. It creates tension, but also raises the question: Is it slightly too long in parts? And then there's the logic, or lack of it. Why don't they leave earlier? Why does the family seem to embrace the chaos at times? These are the kinds of questions that always come up when revisiting older films, and Poltergeist is no exception. But despite all of that, there's something about it. Whether it's the Spielberg touch, the balance of horror and humour, or just the pure nostalgia, this is a movie that still works more often than not. So where does it land? Is it still a classic, or just a stepping stone into better horror movies? JOIN THE CONVERSATION Did Poltergeist scare you as a kid? Does it still hold up today? Is this the perfect “gateway horror” movie? And where does it rank among 80s classics? Drop your thoughts in the comments Like, subscribe, and follow Born to Watch Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube #Poltergeist #80sHorror #MovieReview #BornToWatch #HorrorMovies #CultClassics #StevenSpielberg #80sMovies #ScaryMovies #Podcast
April 7 · 1 hr 58 min
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo 2011 Review is on the table this week, and the boys are diving headfirst into David Fincher’s icy, brutal, and deeply unsettling thriller. What started as scepticism about the need for an English-language remake quickly turns into appreciation, because this is one dark ride that absolutely earns its place. Whitey, Gow, and Dan break down the 2011 adaptation of Stieg Larsson's global phenomenon, unpacking the mystery of Harriet Vanger, the twisted history of one of cinema's worst families, and the unforgettable pairing of Mikael Blomkvist and Lisbeth Salander. From the jump, the lads admit they didn't think this remake was necessary… but by the end, they're more than happy it exists. The episode kicks off in classic Born to Watch fashion with plenty of nonsense, a bit of self-reflection about who talks the most, and a few war stories thrown in for good measure. But once they settle in, the focus shifts to Fincher's signature style, the film's haunting tone, and why Scandinavian crime stories just hit differently. There's a big discussion around rewatchability, with Whitey firmly in the "this is a sneaky background classic" camp, while Gow sits more in one-watch territory due to the film's heavy subject matter. Dan lands somewhere in the middle, crediting Whitey for originally putting him onto the film and admitting it’s grown on him over time. The boys also dive into the casting, with Daniel Craig delivering a more grounded, vulnerable performance compared to his Bond persona, and Rooney Mara absolutely owning the role of Lisbeth Salander. There's plenty of chat about who else could've played the role, including Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, and why Mara ultimately nailed it. One of the standout discussions centres around Stellan Skarsgård's chilling performance as Martin Vanger, particularly in the film's final act. The tension, the calm menace, and that unforgettable house scene all get the Born to Watch treatment, with the boys calling it one of the most gripping sequences they've covered on the podcast. They also touch on how the film compares to both the original Swedish version and the novel, noting that while the movie simplifies some of the complex family dynamics, it still captures the core of the story incredibly well. Of course, no Born to Watch episode is complete without a look at the numbers. With a 7.8 IMDb rating and an 86% Rotten Tomatoes score, the film sits alongside some seriously heavy hitters, and the boys debate whether it deserves that company. There's also a bit of love for the iconic opening title sequence, which Whitey argues is one of the best ever put to screen, and a fair bit of criticism for the trailer, which apparently gives away far too much of the plot. As always, the episode blends sharp insight with absolute chaos, balancing genuine film appreciation with the kind of banter you'd expect from three blokes who don't take themselves too seriously. If you're into dark thrillers, Fincher films, or just want to hear the boys unpack one of the most disturbing mysteries of the 2010s, this is one you won't want to miss. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Who talks too much, Whitey or Dan? Is Lisbeth Salander one of the best characters of the 2010s? Is this remake actually better than the original? #TheGirlWithTheDragonTattoo #MoviePodcast #BornToWatch #FilmReview #DavidFincher #DanielCraig #RooneyMara #CrimeThriller #MovieReview #Podcast
March 31 · 1 hr 45 min
American Ninja (1985)
The American Ninja 1985 Review is finally here, and this one might be the ultimate test of childhood nostalgia versus cold, hard reality. Back in the day, ninja movies were everything. You'd watch them with your mates, then head outside, convinced you could take on an entire army with nothing but a headband and a questionable understanding of martial arts. But does American Ninja actually hold up, or is it another victim of the "we loved it as kids… but it's actually rubbish" category? This week, Whitey, Damo, and Gow step into the dojo to break down one of the most iconic and unintentionally hilarious action films of the 80s. From the opening scenes featuring hacky sacks and butterfly knives to the absolutely chaotic convoy ambush, the boys waste no time calling out just how ridiculous this movie really is. And somehow, it only gets better, or worse, depending on how you look at it, from there. We're introduced to Joe, an amnesiac army private who just happens to possess elite ninja skills. No explanation, no logic, just vibes. Throw him into the Philippines, add a dodgy arms deal, a kidnapped colonel's daughter, and a bunch of ninjas who appear out of nowhere, and you've got yourself a movie that barely makes sense… but is impossible to look away from. Gow, our resident martial arts expert and self-proclaimed dojo graduate, brings his unique perspective to the table, breaking down the "authenticity" of the ninja action, or lack thereof. Meanwhile, Damo questions everything from the acting to the storyline, and especially that unforgettable line about "witness testimony" confirming ninja involvement. Yes, that actually happens. Whitey leads the charge as always, trying to figure out where this movie sits in the grand scheme of action cinema. Is it so bad it's good? Or just plain bad? The answer might surprise you… Or it might not. There's plenty of laughs along the way, especially as the boys revisit scenes they hadn't seen since the early 90s. From over-the-top performances to questionable editing choices and a plot that only reveals itself in the final minutes, American Ninja is a masterclass in accidental comedy. But here's the thing, despite all its flaws, there's still something undeniably fun about it. Maybe it's the nostalgia, maybe it's the sheer absurdity, or maybe it's just the fact that movies like this don't get made anymore. So grab your black belt, sharpen your imaginary ninja sword, and join us as we dive headfirst into one of the most bizarre action films of the 80s. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Did American Ninja hold up… or should it have stayed in the video shop archives? Is this the ultimate "so bad it's good” movie? Would you have loved this if you saw it for the first time as a kid? Where does this rank among 80s action classics? And most importantly… do ninjas improve every movie? Drop your thoughts in the comments. We want to hear from you Like the video if you enjoyed the episode Subscribe to Born to Watch for weekly movie reviews Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube Listen now and decide for yourself, does American Ninja deserve its cult status, or should it have stayed in the video shop archives? #AmericanNinja #80sMovies #ActionMovies #NinjaMovies #BornToWatch #MovieReview #CultClassics #80sAction #SoBadItsGood #Podcast
March 24 · 2 hr 4 min
The Bourne Identity (2002)
The Bourne Identity 2002 Review kicks off a brand-new era of action cinema, and this week on Born to Watch, the boys break down the movie that changed everything. After a chaotic start that only this crew can deliver, Whitey, Dan and Will dive into The Bourne Identity, the film that flipped the script on what an action hero looks like. Gone are the invincible muscle-bound icons of the 80s and 90s, enter Jason Bourne, a confused, calculated and absolutely lethal operator played by Matt Damon in a career-defining role. Pulled from the ocean with no memory and two bullets in his back, Bourne is forced to piece together who he is while being hunted by the very organisation that created him. What follows is a grounded, gritty thriller that trades explosions for realism and spectacle for precision. Whitey reflects on just how many times he's seen this video shop classic (hint: it’s borderline unhealthy), while Will comes in fresh, experiencing Bourne for the first time and questioning how this one slipped through the cracks. Dan, meanwhile, brings the chaos, including losing his phone at sea and somehow tying it back to Bourne's survival odds. The boys dig into what makes this film stand out. The realism. The pacing. The fight choreography that feels raw and believable. And of course, Matt Damon, the unlikely action star who proved everyone wrong. From embassy escapes to park bench beatdowns, Bourne doesn’t just fight, he reacts, and that's what makes it feel so different. There's also plenty of discussion around the supporting cast. Does Marie actually bring anything to the table? Is Chris Cooper quietly elite in everything he touches? And why is Julia Stiles getting top billing for doing absolutely nothing? As always, things go off the rails. There's a debate around whether fishermen are the most honest blokes on earth, a deep dive into Hollywood's best and worst operators, and one of the more ridiculous breakdowns of Bourne's observational skills you'll ever hear. The crew also revisits 2002, a massive year for film, and pits Bourne against the likes of The Two Towers, Spider-Man, and Attack of the Clones… which gets exactly the treatment you'd expect. At its core, The Bourne Identity is more than just a great action movie; it's a reset button for the genre. It paved the way for everything that followed, from Casino Royale to John Wick, and it still holds up over two decades later. So… does it belong in the upper tier of action films? Or is it slightly overrated? You know the drill. Hit play, grab a beer, and let's find out. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Is Bourne the most realistic action hero ever? Could this movie be made the same way today? And seriously… how does he survive that opening scene? #BourneIdentity #BornToWatch #MoviePodcast #ActionMovies #MattDamon #FilmReview #JasonBourne #2000sMovies #SpyThriller #MovieDiscussion