Join brothers Sravan and Tarun Rajupalem every week as they discuss their favourite superhero movies, television shows and video games as well as the latest news in pop culture. Whether you're a fan of superhero movies, just a general movie buff, or just want some informative entertainment this podcast is for you! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/cognitiverecalibration . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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He-Man returns for the first live-action outing since 1987, and the numbers aren't kind. Sravan and Tarun dig into Travis Knight's Masters of the Universe — the cast, the box office shortfall against its $425M break-even mark, and where it lands next to this year's other comic-book adaptations. They head into spoiler territory partway through the conversation, so listen with that in mind. Watch on…
Tom Holland just posted the second-biggest opening weekend of all time — and after Spider-Man: Brand New Day, we're asking whether he's now officially the definitive Spider-Man. Sravan and Tarun (and Peter Barker) break it down spoiler-free for the first half, then dive into Jean Grey, the mutant-tech setup, and what the post-credits scene means for Secret Wars. Watch on YouTube:…
We just watched The Odyssey and we've got a lot to say — starting with dueling box office predictions two days after release. Sravan thinks it clears a billion; Tarun isn't so sure, and makes the case for why Spider-Man: Brand New Day could eat into its run. We get into what's working (the practical effects, that Cyclops sequence, Hoyte van Hoytema's cinematography) and the one sound-mix complaint…
Craig Gillespie's Supergirl just landed as the second film in James Gunn's DCU — and we've got a LOT of thoughts. In this episode, Sravan and Tarun break down the box office numbers (and why $172M+ budget vs a soft $68M worldwide opening is a problem), debate whether Millie Alcock was miscast or just miswritten, and dig into why the script feels like someone left half the comic book on the cutting…
Is Michael a great biopic, or does it work because Michael Jackson’s music is simply impossible to resist? We review the new Michael Jackson biopic, discussing Jaafar Jackson’s performance, the film’s massive audience response, Michael’s legacy, the controversy around his life, and the major moments the movie glosses over. Plus, we end with a Michael Jackson song battle — from Thriller and Billie…
Star Wars returns to the big screen for the first time in years with Mandalorian & Grogu — but does it actually feel like an event movie? In this episode of Cognitive Recalibration, Sravan and Bhaskar break down the latest Star Wars theatrical release, discussing: ⚔️ The movie’s “side quest” structure 👶 Grogu stealing every scene 🎬 Whether this should’ve just been Disney+ episodes 🌌 The current…
MORTAL KOMBAT is back… but is it actually an upgrade? 👊🔥 We’re reviewing Mortal Kombat 2, talking Johnny Cage, fatalities, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Katana, Kano, and whether this sequel delivers enough chaos to justify another round. Was it fun? Yes. Was it good? That’s where things get complicated… Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9ASmLq88Dug ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:37 Intro + Mortal Kombat 2 setup 1:35…
The Devil Wears Prada 2 is finally here… but was it worth bringing Miranda, Andy and Emily back after 20 years? In this episode, we break down whether the sequel captures the magic of the original, why the plot feels more like a legacy cash grab, the AI/media industry angle, Meryl Streep’s return as Miranda Priestly, and whether this deserved its massive box office opening. Is this a stylish…
Project Hail Mary surprised us, Super Mario Galaxy is racing toward a billion, and the 2026 Movie Draft is already getting interesting. In this episode, Sravan and Tarun review Project Hail Mary and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie , discuss Ryan Gosling, Rocky, IMAX, Mario nostalgia, Nintendo easter eggs, box office numbers, and whether these films are already shaking up the 2026 movie race. Watch on…
It’s draft day on Cognitive Recalibration. Sravan, Tarun and special guest Kireeti go head-to-head in a 2026 Movie Draft , building their ultimate box office teams with a $100 budget , 6 picks each , tiered movie pricing, and a steal tax that turns the whole thing chaotic. From Avengers: Doomsday , Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Toy Story 5 to risky value picks like Michael , Supergirl , Jumanji 3…
Sravan is joined by special guest Kireeti to break down Infinity Castle (and the Demon Slayer series as a whole): why it became a global phenomenon, how the movie cranks the animation and intensity to max, and what the three big arcs mean for what’s coming next. Non-spoiler thoughts up front, then we go full spoiler mode — including Shinobu’s showdown, Zenitsu finally locking in, and Akaza’s…
t’s that time of the year 🎄 — the Cognitive Recalibration Annual Christmas Special is back! Sravan and Tarun are joined once again by Bhaskar and Kireeti for our most chaotic, funniest, and most festive episode of the year. Each of us brings a Christmas-themed pick and puts it through our Christmas Movie Test™ to decide what really qualifies as a Christmas movie (see below). 🎬 Movies discussed…
🧬 The First Family of Marvel returns! In this episode of Cognitive Recalibration, Sravan and Tarun break down The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025) — the long-awaited reboot starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Is it a return to form or another forgettable entry? We talk team dynamics, MCU fatigue, Galactus, and what’s next for Marvel Phase 5. Watch on…
Superman (2025) Review – A Bold Reboot or Just Another Cape? 🦸♂️ We're back after a hiatus to talk about one of the most anticipated superhero films of the year – James Gunn’s Superman (2025). Is this the hopeful new beginning the DC Universe needed? We discuss our spoiler-free thoughts, dive deep into character portrayals, compare this reboot to past versions, unpack the comic-book-style…
Is the Force still with us? In this episode, we're joined by long-time Star Wars fan Bhaskar to break down the current state of the franchise—from the highs of Andor to the lows of The Acolyte. We talk about the Disney+ overload, the trilogy that derailed itself, the missed opportunities, and whether it's time for a creative hiatus. There's plenty of fun, frustration, and fandom to go around—this…
💥 Deadpool & Wolverine has finally arrived… and we’re (fashionably) late to the party! Recorded right after release, we’re finally dropping this long-overdue review along with a juicy MCU deep dive. From D23 announcements (Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom?!) to Deadpool cameos, future Marvel line-ups, and a full breakdown of our Japan theme park adventures – this one’s got it all. 👀 Why is RDJ…
🎙 Mickey 17, Snow White, Novocaine & Ne Zha 2 | Sci-Fi, Disney Flops & Action Twists We're back with a stacked episode! Sravan and Tarun dive into Bong Joon Ho’s latest sci-fi dark comedy Mickey 17, unpack the controversial Snow White (2025) live-action reboot, spotlight the action-packed rom-com Novocaine, and review China's record-breaking animated sequel Ne Zha 2. Plus, thoughts on what’s…
Our first movie review of 2025 is here! We finally watched Captain America: Brave New World—but was it worth the wait? We dive into the strengths, weaknesses, action sequences, and Marvel’s future. Is Anthony Mackie a great Captain America? Was Red Hulk worth the hype? Does this movie set up anything important for the MCU? 🎧 Tune in for our spoiler-filled breakdown, thoughts on the MCU’s…
We're back in 2025! Sravan and Tarun break down their most anticipated movies and TV shows of the year—including Superman, Fantastic Four, Mortal Kombat 2, Knives Out 3, and Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning! Which movies are must-watch, and which ones are we skipping? Tune in for a genre-by-genre breakdown and our hottest takes on 2025 cinema! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LYlugXflGXg…
Sravan and Tarun return to discuss Kraven the Hunter—a film that may just be the final installment of Sony’s Spider-Man Universe. Is it a roaring success or a flop? Tune in to hear their thoughts on this “masterpiece”! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lY3O4QbceY4 Timestamps: 0:34 - Introduction to Kraven the Hunter 1:02 - Production and Context 2:33 - Other Films in the Sony Spider-Man Universe…
Celebrate the holidays with our annual Christmas Special! 🎄 This year, we’ve doubled the fun with four reviews of Christmas-themed films, featuring our special guests. Sravan and Tarun are joined by Bhaskar and Kireeti for a lively discussion about their picks for the best (and maybe the worst!) holiday movies. Tune in for festive fun, film insights, and some heated debates about what makes a…
Joker: Folie à Deux – Did it live up to the hype? 🎬 With Joaquin Phoenix returning and Lady Gaga stepping into Harley Quinn's shoes, this sequel took an unexpected twist into musical territory. Sravan and Taran break down what worked (hint: not much) and what didn’t (hint: almost everything). Is it worth a watch? Find out in our full review! 🎧 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uDr5_PPIBak…
In this episode, we are joined by special guest Bhaskar to analyze Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. We explore the cinematic history of Godzilla and Kong before diving into the character dynamics and narrative depth of the latest film. We also review the latest instalment in the Ghostbusters franchise Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TGzGiywJ-Ck Chapters 0:00 Video…
In this episode, we are joined by returning Kireeti and we deeply analyze "Dune: Part 2" discussing its visual grandeur, character arcs, and pacing. We venture into spoilers in the second half of the episode and dissect character motivations and narrative intricacies, comparing themes with other works. We also review the Netflix show "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and "Spider-Man 2" on PS5. Watch on…
In this episode, we discuss the Sony's Spider-Man Universe Universe and " Madame Web ." We critique the film's flaws in dialogue, acting, and storytelling. We covers character dynamics, plot holes, and CGI quality, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses within the superhero film landscape. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Cb5i1e3LkKc Timestamps: 0:00:34 Introduction 0:01:09…
In this episode, we analyse Matthew Vaughn's film "Argylle." We explore various aspects of the film, including the cast, plot twists, character development, and execution. Watch in YouTube: https://youtu.be/GcIpayxfo3U Timestamps: 0:00:35 Introduction 0:02:19 Non-Spoilers Discussion 0:10:51 Comparing Ratings 0:11:52 A book has been written from this movie? 0:12:36 Spoiler Talk 0:18:28 The…
Happy New Year! In this episode of Cognitive Recalibration, we discuss our top five favourite movies of 2023 and our least favourite. We also delve into box office numbers for 2023 and look forward to upcoming movies in 2024 like Dune: Part 2, Deadpool 3, Kraven the Hunter, and Venom 3. Timestamps: 0:00:34 New Year, New Episode: Looking Back at 2023 A Look Back at 2023 0:02:22 Worst Movies of the…
In this episode, we discuss Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Rebel Moon and Godzilla Minus One . Directed by James Wan, known for horror films and the previous Aquaman instalment, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom serves as the final film in the DC Extended Universe before a new DC universe begins. Rebel Moon is Zach Snyder's attempt at creating a Star Wars-like universe with his unique aesthetic.…
It's the most wonderful time of the year, this time we are talking about two Christmas movies, the classic "It's a Wonderful Life" and "The Holiday". Timestamps: (3:28) - It's a Wonderful Life (16:25) - The Holiday The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOgå å If…
In this we review the latest release "Wonka", along with the previous DC release "Blue Beetle". We also discuss the latest instalment in the Hunger Games franchise, "Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" along with Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki's last film "The Boy and the Heron". Timestamps: (1:48) - Blue Beetle (9:14) - Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (17:09) -…
In this episode we review the latest MCU release "The Marvels" and we are joined by returning guest Brian Sherlock to discuss the movie. Timestamps: (1:41) - Spoiler Free Review (17:25) - Spoiler Talk The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to…
In this episode we review Marvel's latest Disney+ series Secret Invasion along with Haunting in Venice, The Nun II, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 and Haunted Mansion. Timestamps: (0:58) - Secret Invasion (19:16) - Haunted Mansion (26:40) - The Nun II (35:56) - My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 (42:47) - Haunting in Venice The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro:…
Barbenheimer has been quite a phenomenon and we are joined by special guest Bhaskar Cherukuri to discuss both films. Timestamps: (2:30) - The Phenomenon of Barbenheimer (7:16) - Oppenheimer (55:09) - Barbie The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to…
Tom Cruise is back for another Impossible Mission in Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1. We review the film and talk about where it stands with respect to the long running franchise. Timestamps: (3:20) - Background and Non-Spoiler Review (26:36) - Spoiler Talk The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm:…
15 years after Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Harrison Ford returns as Dr. Henry Walton "Indiana" Jones, Jr. in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. In this review we talk about our thoughts on the movie and jump into spoilers in the second half of the episode. Timestamps: (3:03) - Background and Non-Spoiler Review (24:58) - Spoiler Talk The equipment we use: Rode Podmic:…
In this episode we review the latest edition in the Transformers franchise "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" and yet another Disney live action remake in "The Little Mermaid". Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you…
We review the long-delayed and much-hyped DC film, "The Flash". Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to support this podcast so we can keep producing our content for free consider the following options:…
The much anticipated Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is here and we are joined by our Spider-Man correspondent Kireeti in our in-depth review. Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to support this podcast…
Fast10 your seatbelts because the Fast and Furious family are back for Fast X. We discuss our thoughts on the 10th film in the franchise and how they might have one more last ride (or two more!). Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables:…
We are joined by returning guest Bhaskar to discuss Mandalorian Season 3, and everything announced at Star Wars Celebration 2023. Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to support this podcast so we can keep…
James Gunn's final film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is here with Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. We discuss our thoughts on the film and dive into spoilers in the second half of the episode. Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables:…
In this episode we review the fourth instalment in John Wick franchise and the box office sensation The Super Mario Bros Movie . Timestamps: Timestamps to be updated The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to support this podcast so we can keep…
The DCEU is coming to an end soon and 'Shazam!: Fury of the Gods' is one of the last movies to release in this iteration of the universe. In this episode, we discuss our thoughts on the Shazam! sequel and also the newly released fantasy movie 'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves'. Timestamps: (0:37) - Introduction (1:18) - Shazam! Fury of the Gods - Non-Spoiler Review (19:04) - Shazam! Fury of…
Ghostface is back yet again, this time in the Big Apple. This week we review "Scream VI" and discuss our thoughts on where the franchise might be going. Timestamps: (0:37) - Introduction (1:04) - Non-Spoiler Review (13:25) - Spoiler Talk The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables:…
Adonis Creed is back for the third movie in the Creed franchise this time with Michael B. Jordan directing. We discuss our thoughts on Creed III as well as Missing which is another movie from the makers of Searching . Timestamps: (0:35) - Introduction (0:53) - Non-Spoiler Review (17:29) - Spoiler Talk (22:40) - Missing Review The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster…
Phase 5 has officially begun with Ant-Man & the Wasp: Quantumania. Here is our review of the movie and our thoughts on the MCU since Phase 4. Timestamps: (0:33) - Introduction (1:15) - Non-Spoiler Review (20:08) - Spoiler Talk The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables:…
In anticipation for the start of Phase 5 with Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, we look back at Phase 4 and add them to our MCU tier list. Timestamps: Timestamps to be added shortly. The equipment we use: Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2LSeJPb Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3bLykLP Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/2M0ujIp XLR Cables: https://amzn.to/38QTEOg If you want to support this podcast…
Another year, another best and worst episode. In this episode, we discuss our favourite and least favourite movies and TV shows of 2022 and look forward to what's coming up in 2023. Timestamps: (0:40) - Introduction (1:50) - Box Office Performance of 2022 (9:02) - Worst of 2022 (20:30) - Awards for 2022 (28:10) - Top 5 Movies of 2022 (35:53) - Our Thoughts on RRR (39:09) - Most Anticipated for…
Rian Johnson is back with another "Knives Out" mystery, this time on Netflix with "Glass Onion". We discuss our thoughts on the film along reviews for the Santa Claus special action film "Violent Night" and the dark comedy thriller "The Menu". Timestamps: (0:34) - Introduction (1:46) - Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery Review (26:25) - Violent Night (34:29) - The Menu The equipment we use: Rode…
It's the most wonderful time of the year again and we're back with our annual Christmas Special episode. This time we discuss the recently released "Guardians of the Galaxy: Holiday Special", the classic Christmas comedy "Elf" and the Arnold Schwarzenegger starrer "Jingle All the Way". Timestamps: (0:34) - Introduction (2:27) - Guardians of the Galaxy: Holiday Special (12:25) - Elf (22:49) -…
