Hops and Box Office Flops

Prey – Do Not Kill the Dog

Prey reignites the Predator franchise in the best ways possible. It's more contained—focusing on the story and characters, rather than feeling the need to go bigger. It's the hit the series desperately needed.
After a slew of middling to outright mediocre sequels (and sidequels), Prey optimizes the formula for the alien hunter's antics. It takes the creature back in time—the northwest plains in 1719—and utilizes the incredible landscapes to set a tone and atmosphere the films have been missing.
This is Naru's journey just as much as it is the Predator's. She, like the extraterrestrial, is out to prove herself. That is the heartbeat of the movie—one woman's quest to demonstrate her worth as a hunter in the eyes of her tribe.
Hence why Naru (Amber Midthunder) is the best protagonist we've had since cigar-chewing Dutch in the 1987 original.
Yet, a Predator movie cannot be complete without some murderous mayhem. And there is plenty of cannon fodder to be had. Prey gives us gore by the bucket load. The mandible menace has never been more intimidating or dangerous than in this movie. And when it wipes out an entire horde of folks, it does so in incredibly gruesome and satisfying ways.
Simply put, Prey is a must-watch for fans of the franchise. So, sit back, crush a can of Hop Venom from Boneyard Beer, and cheer on the Predator as he massacres some French fur trappers! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, Mayor McCheese, and Chumpzilla are doing our best to avoid getting snared in any of the Predator's excruciatingly brutal man-traps.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – It knows how to hunt, but we know how to survive. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss where in time we'd like the Predator to head next. (28:03)
The "Kuhtaamia" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast loses a "First Blood" match to a bear, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (45:51)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We begin "Hops and Star Powered Flops" with the excellently casted, but poorly scripted flop Gangster Squad. (56:17)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the original cast's love for this movie and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

Predators – Crazy Larry’s Den of Alien Antiquities

Predators is the ideal set up for a sequel to the 1987 original. It includes a cast of eclectic mercenaries being pursued by the titular create. Only this time, there are three of them, and it's on their home turf.
Yes, Predators takes us back to lush jungles, which, honestly, are a much more interesting backdrop for the hunt than either LA or a small town.
Yet, the setting is not the only good idea this movie brings to the table. You've got a Predator blood feud; the conceit that all the nefarious characters dropped into this scenario are on a game preserve; and the loony survivor who's stuck on the planet.
Where Predators is lacking is in its execution. It's not a bad film, by any means; it's just one that could've benefitted from a little more style to its rule of cool.
Hence why the reviews were just lukewarm—65% on Rotten Tomatoes with 205 of them; and audiences didn't flock to cinemas for it. It grossed $52 million domestically ($127 worldwide) on a budget of $40 million.
Those numbers are quite possibly a reflection of the godawful Alien vs Predator movies that came before it, too.
Anyway, sit back, booby trap a Cosmic Crown Belgian-Style Golden Ale from Cigar City Brewing, and stay away from the Danny Trap-jo! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, Chumpzilla, and a special guest are hanging with Larry Fishburne and his imaginary best friend.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – The most dangerous killers on the planet... but this is not our planet. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss which fictional character we'd like the Predator to scrap with. (49:57)
The "Predators" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast hides underneath some foliage to win the Predator Royal Rumble, and then Capt. Cash challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:13:00)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We conclude "Hops and Hunting Ground Flops" with the franchise's triumphant return Prey. (1:22:10)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the sequel that never was and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

The Predator – Leaking Spinal Fluid

Fans of the franchise, like us, now doubt had high hopes for Shane Black's The Predator. Black, who'd appeared in the original as Hawkins and even served as a script doctor on set, is a legend of action movie scriptwriting.
The Predator, unfortunately, fails in almost every way. The humor is overwritten and overstuffed; the characters are thin and generally unlikeable; the plot makes no sense; and the scars of tumultuous reshoots are painfully evident.
The third act seems to connect to an entirely different movie. That makes sense because they did have to reconfigure the whole thing after poor test screenings. But, it renders The Predator a film with no identity.
Hence why it failed to reignite the franchise. It earned just $160.5 million on a budget of $88 million; and its reviews were scathing. At 33% on Rotten Tomatoes with 296 of them, this was not the return to form fans were hoping for.
It is gory, though, so that's a plus.
Now, sit back, evolve your tastebuds with a Summer Love Ale from Victory Brewing, and never play fetch with the Predator's dog! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, and Chumpzilla are on prison transport bus to the loony bin.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – You'll never see him coming. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss ideas for a better Predator sequel. (41:32)
The "Apex Predator" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast goes toe-to-toe with the Upgrade, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (58:45)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Hunting Ground Flops" with 2010's Predators. (1:08:27)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—how this movie was hacked to pieces and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

Predator 2 – Pred Harder

Predator 2 isn't a bad movie; it's just a disappointing one. That's mainly because it pales in comparison to its predecessor, failing to up the ante in any meaningful way.
Sure, there is more gore and curse words, but the narrative is a mess. Predator 2 is just an amalgamation of better movies from the genre with the adversarial alien added to the mix.
That works just enough for it not to be a total disaster. But, its failure at the box office can certainly be attributed to its slapdash plot and haphazard direction.
Aside from a missing in action Arnold, the most glaring weaknesses of Predator 2 are in the execution of its production. The pedigree just wasn't the same.
Hence why its box office ($57.1 million) and reviews (30% on Rotten Tomatoes) lagged behind the first.
But, hey, at least the director, Stephen Hopkins, was smart enough not to cast Steven Seagal as the lead.
So, sit back, slice the cap off a Red Stripe with your Smart Disc, and head to the meat packing plant buffet! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, Mayor McCheese, and Chumpzilla are rolling with King Willie and his heinous henchmen.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Silent. Invisible. Invincible. He's in town with a few days to kill. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss where this failed to stack up to the 1987 classic. (51:23)
The "More Victims, More Mutilation" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast wins a "First Blood" match against Danny Glover, and then Chumpzilla challenges the field to trivia about the movie. (1:10:39)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Hunting Ground Flops" with Shane Black's misguided return to the property, The Predator. (1:23:48)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—this movie's nearly disastrous lead and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

The Alamo – Remember It

The Alamo, directed by John Lee Hancock, is a historical look at the tragic storming of the mission turned fort in 1836 Texas.
Though the film boasts incredible sets, well shot historical action, and a wonderful ensemble, it was a box office dud. In fact, it is one of the biggest bombs in history, losing an estimated $146 million. That's nearly 10 Louisiana Purchases.
Critics didn't help its prospects. Sitting at 29% on Rotten Tomatoes with 159 reviews, their consensus was unkind. We, unfortunately, have to agree. Outside of Billy Bob Thornton as Davy Crockett, 2004's The Alamo is bereft of personality.
It doesn't help that the film is attempting to sell you on characters who are generally written about as being disreputable.
The one thing The Alamo does excel at is showing the viewer how dire their situation was. In essence, these 200 or so men were left to die; and the siege on the fort is appropriately harrowing.
So, sit back, load a Wild West Wheat from Tombstone Brewing into your beer cannon, and always account for the wind! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, and Chumpzilla are firing up our fiddles to spite Santa Ana's army.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – You will never forget. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we assess where this movie went wrong. (34:53)
The "Remember the Alamo" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast jumps corner to corner like Davy Crockett across the Mississippi, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the history of Texas. (57:16)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We begin "Hops and Hunting Ground Flops" with the uninspiring sequel to one of cinema's greatest action movies, Predator 2! (1:04:40)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—how a mission became a pivotal fort and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

The Last Duel – Misogynistic Gladiators

Ridley Scott's  The Last Duel depicts the final trial by combat in 14th Century France. The titular duel involved Knight Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) and Squire Jacques le Gris (Adam Driver), battling over le Gris' alleged rape of Carrouges' wife Marguerite (Jodie Comer).
Yes, folks, this is a heavy movie, but it is also a very good one. The sets, the costumes, the acting—which includes a wonderfully sleezy performance from Ben Affleck as Count Pierre d'Alençon—and the action are all top notch. This is Scott at the top of his historical storytelling game.
Sadly, though, The Last Duel flopped. Hard. As in, it lie dying as an angry Matt Damon yelled at it to CONFESS.
On a budget of $100 million, it grossed a puny $30.6 million. With stellar reviews (85% on Rotten Tomatoes with 283 of them) and awards buzz, The Last Duel deserved far better.
This isn't only interesting history, it's important history. And its principle story is shockingly relevant to today. Thus, we highly recommend that you see it.
So, sit back, impale a 1985 Voodoo Ranger IPA from New Belgium Brewing with your lance, and never trust the nefarious Jacques le Gris! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK) and Capt. Cash are clanging swords to the delight of "Mad" King Charles VI.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – The true story of a woman who defied a nation and made history. (00:00)
Lingering Questions – The Double Turn Podcast borrows Drew McIntyre's sword to partake in the melee, and then we discuss why this may have flopped. (40:42)
Recommendations – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we offer our picks for the week and next up: We finish "Hops and Period Piece Flops" with an ode to the finest fiddler in all of Texas and his amazing adventures, The Alamo! (52:44)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the true history of the duel and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

Almost Heroes – Drinking Has Its Benefits

Almost Heroes is the final leading role of comedy legend Chris Farley. Five months prior to its release, he tragically died of an overdose.
With that dark cloud hanging over the film, it's not altogether surprising it suffered at the box office. On a budget of $30 million, it grossed just $6.1 million. Its 5% rating on Rotten Tomatoes probably didn't help either.
For fans of Farley's work, though, there are things to be enjoyed about Almost Heroes. His trademark high energy and willful disregard for his body on are full display; and the gags are often quite comical as a result.
So, Almost Heroes may not be peak Farley, but it does provide enough for you to wistfully remember his immense talent. 
Now, sit back, battle the legendary Gumerboo West Coast IPA from Rogue Brewing, and keep the straw women away from the fire! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Chumpzilla, and a special guest are headed toward the Pacific on a mission from President Thomas Jefferson.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Almost history... Almost legends... Mostly ridiculous! (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss all things Farley. (24:26)
The "Pittsburgh Nellie" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast escapes the raging rapids, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (43:42)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Period Piece Flops" with Ridley Scott's slept-on epic, The Last Duel! (54:28)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—Farley's SNL legacy and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword – Arthur Begins

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is a dramatic reimagining of the Arthurian legend. It is also evokes much of its director's hallmark traits. This is Guy Ritchie's take on King Arthur, for better and for worse.
King Arthur: Legend of the Sword was a gamble. Budgeted at $175 million and with five sequels planned, WB had franchise desires in mind for it. With that much at stake, it's odd they would butcher the edit of the film.
Legend of the Sword, for all its insane visuals and Ritchie flair, is a narrative mess. It zooms from plot point to plot point, replacing essential connective tissue with bizarrely narrated montages. It feels like the movie is playing in 1.5x speed.
Couple that with a bland lead (Charlie Hunnam as the titular king) and villain (Jude Law's Vortigern), who's essentially evil because the film requires it, and there's not much to get behind.
Hence why it flopped as hard as a movie can and was lambasted by critics. Legend of the Sword didn't even recoup its production budget, grossing just $148.7 million worldwide; and it sits at 31% on Rotten Tomatoes with 278 reviews.
Yet, there is still some things to be appreciated. When King Arthur goes full King Arthur, the effects are rather spectacular. That alone is worth the price of admission.
Now, sit back, bow to the king of beers—Budweiser—and warg into a giant snake! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK) and Chumpzilla are debating the merits of sacrificing someone to the tentacle lady.
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Raised on the streets. Born to be king! (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss why this movie failed. (29:05)
The "Londinium Calling" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast snatches the sword from the stone, and then Chumpzilla challenges me to trivia about the movie. (39:12)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We continue "Hops and Period Piece Flops" with Chris Farley's final leading role, Almost Heroes! (49:43)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the sequels that never were and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!

Dracula Dead and Loving It – Mister, Mister

Dracula Dead and Loving It is a typical Mel Brooks movie. It's a spoof of Bram Stoker's Dracula that's light on plot, but full of goofy gags and childish humor.
Unfortunately, it lacks the biting wit of most Brooks films. Despite the unending charms of comedy legend Leslie Nielsen, who portrays the titular Count, too many of the jokes simply do not land.
Critics tend to agree. At 11% on Rotten Tomatoes with 37 reviews this is far from peak Brooks.
Sure, there are subtle hints of his brilliance, but not enough to make it stand out. Hence why it also flopped, grossing a woeful $10.7 million on a budget of $30 million.
Now, sit back, satiate your bloodlust with a Dark Truth Imperial Stout from Boulevard Brewing, and don't rely on Renfield! I, the Thunderous Wizard (@WriterTLK), Capt. Cash, Mayor McCheese, and Chumpzilla are attending our first staking! Should we wear raincoats?
This Week’s Segments:
Introduction/Plot Breakdown – Got Blood? (00:00)
Lingering Questions – After a word from our brothers in beer at Hop Nation USA, we discuss what worked/didn't work about this movie. (39:14)
The "Carfax Abbey" Trivia Challenge – The Double Turn Podcast wins a Crucifix Match, and then I challenge the field to trivia about the movie. (57:25)
Recommendations – We offer our picks for the week and next up: We kick off "Hops and Period Piece Flops" with King Arthur: Legend of the Sword! (1:09:18)
And, as always, hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram to check out all the interesting factoids—the spoof legend that is Leslie Nielsen and more—from this week’s episode!
You can find this episode of Hops and Box Office Flops on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Podbean, Spotify, Acast, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, Vurbl, and Amazon Music!