Brad Pitt roars back to the screen in a high-octane thrill ride that proves age is just a number when passion drives you forward. As veteran racer Sonny Hayes, Pitt brings a magnetic charisma to a character whose superstitious quirks – including his refusal to touch winning trophies – hint at a complicated past filled with triumph and regret.

When struggling team owner Ruben Cervantes (perfectly cast Javier Bardem) recruits Sonny to mentor rising star Joshua Pierce (Damson Idris), the stage is set for a classic tale of redemption that transcends typical sports movie formulas. Their chemistry crackles with authentic tension – the seasoned veteran who races for the pure art of it versus the young hotshot chasing fame and fortune. What begins as rivalry gradually transforms into mutual respect through white-knuckle racing sequences that put viewers directly into the driver's seat.

Director Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick) brings his technical mastery to the world of Formula 1, creating racing sequences that feel heart-stoppingly real. The camera work deserves special mention – innovative angles and drone shots capture the visceral thrill of racing at 200 MPH. Hans Zimmer's score perfectly complements these moments, building tension and emotional resonance throughout the 2.5-hour journey. While some subplots could have been trimmed, the core relationship between Sonny and Pierce provides the emotional engine that powers this film to its satisfying conclusion.

For racing enthusiasts, F1 delivers authentic details and cameos from real drivers that enhance the experience. Yet it remains accessible to newcomers, explaining the sport's complexities without patronizing its audience. Beyond the spectacular racing sequences lies a universal story about finding purpose, mentoring the next generation, and pursuing excellence for its own sake rather than glory. Don't miss this pulse-pounding celebration of second chances and the relentless pursuit of perfection – experience F1 in IMAX for the full immersive journey.

A movie marathon day turned chaotic adventure kicks off this special episode marking a new era for the podcast. Rob shares his ambitious feat of watching four movies across three different theaters in a single day—complete with bizarre audience encounters, a medical emergency, and the controversial decision to walk out of "The Materialist" before its conclusion. From the stunning visuals of "How to Train Your Dragon" to the backward-told narrative of "The Life of Chuck," Rob's cinema journey reveals what happens when passion for film meets marathon endurance.

The big announcement finally arrives: Brandon Cole officially joins as permanent co-host! This partnership immediately proves its chemistry as the duo dives into their cinematic perspectives. Together they recap the first half of 2024's movie offerings, categorizing releases into distinct tiers from outstanding hits to disappointing misses. "Sinners" and "Thunderbolts" earn unanimous praise, while they debate the merits of films like "Amateur" and "The Accountant 2."

Looking ahead, excitement builds for upcoming blockbusters, with Superman and Fantastic Four generating particular enthusiasm. The hosts analyze release scheduling strategies and predict which films will dominate the summer box office. The conversation takes a creative turn as they draft dream casts for a hypothetical next installment in the Knives Out franchise, with actors like Florence Pugh, Glenn Powell, Donald Glover, and Zach Efron making their fantasy lineup.

Whether you're planning your next theater visit or seeking streaming recommendations, this episode delivers thoughtful film analysis wrapped in entertaining conversation. Subscribe now to join Rob and Brandon on their journey through cinema's latest offerings, and don't forget their parting suggestion to revisit Interstellar—a timeless masterpiece worth experiencing again.

Ana de Armas takes center stage in "Ballerina," expanding the John Wick universe through the story of a vengeful assassin trained from childhood who returns to kill those responsible for her father's murder.

• Ballerina fits seamlessly into the John Wick universe, taking place between John Wick 3 and 4
• Ana de Armas brings a unique fighting style focused on explosives and grenades rather than John Wick's signature gun-fu
• The film serves as an origin story, showing how Eve develops from a slightly inexperienced assassin to a formidable force
• Keanu Reeves makes several appearances as John Wick, though these sometimes overshadow the main character's development
• The gun shop tunnel sequence stands out as one of the most impressive action scenes in the film
• The third act features an innovative fight with flamethrowers that demonstrates the character applying lessons from her training
• The movie ends with a cliffhanger setting up potential sequels, with Eve receiving a bounty on her head
• New characters are introduced who could become franchise staples, particularly the gun shop owner
• Ballet training serves as the foundation for assassination skills, emphasizing the discipline and physical demands of both worlds
• While the action choreography impresses, the plot remains relatively simple with a straightforward revenge narrative

If you enjoyed this expansion of the John Wick universe, keep an eye out for upcoming installments including John Wick 5, the prequel series The Continental on Peacock, and potential sequels to Ballerina.