The ZONE Podcast: Nerdy News and Reviews - podcast cover

The ZONE Podcast: Nerdy News and Reviews

We, the Zealots of Nerd Entertainment (or the ZONE Alliance), are a group of  eople talking about old and new movies, television shows, video games, and everything else in nerd/pop culture!

Episodes

Sonic Prime: Shattering Expectations with Great Characterization

Ever felt the exhilarating rush of speeding through a universe where every leap could lead to a new, unexpected twist? That's the high-octane ride that JetBlackXtreme and Kokugatsu can take you on, as we dissect the whirlwind adventures of "Sonic Prime"! With the breakneck pace of the Blue Blur and the twisted turns of the multiverse, we debate the narrative arcs of Sonic and his arch-rival Shadow, the complex morality of their actions, and the rippling consequences of haste both on-screen and i...

Jan 22, 20241 hr 45 minSeason 13Ep. 4

The Reckoning of 2024: Katt Williams Unleashed on Club Shay Shay | ZONE Podcast: After Dark

Ever find yourself pondering the unvarnished truths behind the sparkling veneer of the entertainment industry? Our latest conversation takes you through a labyrinth of candid discussions, from Katt Williams' blistering honesty in a recent interview to the ripple effects it's had among his peers. We navigate the tumultuous waves of the comedy scene, dissecting the intersections of personal lives and public perception, and the often untold stories of generosity that bind the community together! Pi...

Jan 22, 20243 hr 20 min

Marvel Cinematic Universe: The Xtreme Review (Phase 4)

The Zealots of Nerd Entertainment continues their review on the MCU, as JetBlackXtreme teams up with Kokugatsu, Professor Tuck and Mira Jane and Kokugatsu to rank the titles of the Phase 4! From the adorable "I Am Groot" to the multiverse-mingling antics of "Loki," we're peeling back the layers of these narratives to reveal what truly makes them tick. Grab your shield, hammer, or cloak of levitation and prepare for a deep dive into character arcs, storytelling brilliance, and the controversies t...

Jan 22, 20242 hr 12 min

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off: Ramona's Story & A Re-telling Done Right

Discover the hidden layers of character transformation and the fine line between love and karma as we unwrap the anime masterpiece "Scott Pilgrim Takes Off!" With a fresh perspective from my wife and a nod to other franchises, we dissect what makes this Netflix hit a stand-alone marvel that might just leave you questioning the need for a sequel. We're not just talking about plot twists; we're revealing the intricate character evolutions that leap far beyond the original movie and comic adaptatio...

Jan 14, 20241 hr 31 minSeason 13Ep. 3

The Eminence in Shadow (Season 2): Vampiric Uprisings, Manipulation of Currency & Lord Shadow Returning Home

Prepare to be entertained as we strap in for an uproarious review of "The Eminence in Shadow" Season 2, a series that masterfully dances on the fine line between clever storytelling and what we affectionately dub "gourmet trash." From drawing parallels with "One Punch Man" to discussing the rapid production turnaround and its implications on quality entertainment, we dissect the series' highs and lows with a balance of enthusiasm and scrutiny. Brace yourself for an episode that celebrates absurd...

Jan 13, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 13Ep. 2

Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer: Unwrapping the Holiday Hilarity with Festive Film Follies

Have you ever caught yourself wondering if Santa's sleigh has liability insurance? Today, I take a nostalgic trip back to the holiday special "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer," examining the quirky Spankenheimer family and Santa's role as the ultimate behavior moderator. With the help of Kokuyasu and Professor Tuck, we peel back the layers of this Christmas classic, sharing personal anecdotes and diving into the complex dance of instilling joy and truth during the holiday season. We explore h...

Jan 12, 20241 hr 14 minSeason 13Ep. 1

Nerdy News Special #9: A Handful of New Anime Movies, A Myriad of Netflix Projects, Video Game Leaks & Bizarre Retcons in Marvel Comics

Get ready to have your nerdy cravings supercharged as we, alongside the indomitable Mecha Manager, Talos Gundam, and the boundless knowledge of Professor Tuck, unleash a treasure trove of insights on the most electrifying movies and TV series of the year! Feel the ground rumble beneath your feet with our take on "Godzilla Minus One" and the martial arts hilarity of "Kung Fu Panda 4." We're not just serving up reviews; we're dissecting the seismic shifts in superhero cinema, from shelved sorceres...

Jan 11, 20243 hr 28 min

The Friday Trilogy: A Certified Hood Classic

What do you get when you take a certified hood classic, four passionate hosts, and a bunch of unforgettable characters? The answer is an episode of the ZONE Podcast that's brimming with nostalgia, laughter, and deeper insights into the iconic Friday trilogy! Does the name John Witherspoon ring a bell? We pay tribute to the late great actor, as well as the towering Tiny Lister - their performances in Friday remain etched in our memories. Get ready to relive some of their most memorable scenes, in...

Dec 08, 20231 hr 33 minSeason 12Ep. 7

The Powerpuff Girls: A "Family-Friendly" Classic Cartoon

Just when you thought you knew everything about the Powerpuff Girls, we're about to turn that notion on its head. Remember when Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup captured our hearts with their crime-fighting antics and sassy attitudes? Joined by our special guests, Professor Tuck and Mira Jane, we're not just revisiting this iconic animated series, but we're dissecting it layer by layer, picking apart the adult humor that peppered the episodes and dissecting how complex themes got seamlessly woven...

Dec 08, 202353 minSeason 12Ep. 8

Nerdy News Special #8: Redirection of the MCU, Scenes Too Hot for TV and the Way the Cookie Crumbles

From shake-ups in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to scandalous behavior lurking in the shadows, it's time for another Nerdy News Special, where we talk about news in film, television, gaming and anything remotely interesting! Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes! Support the show We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're inte...

Nov 30, 20232 hr 7 min

Attack on Titan: A Grim Reminder, 10 Years Later

At last, the Attack on Titan anime has reached its conclusion, and the Zealots of Nerd Entertainment got to talk about it, with a new castmate, Mira Jane! Giving our perspective on the series from a storytelling point of view, as well as a therapeutic approach with Kali Hakaishin in regards to Eren Jaeger, the freedom-seeking protagonist turned villain! Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes! Support the show We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow e...

Nov 28, 20232 hr 27 minSeason 12Ep. 6

Ben 10: The Terrifying Potential of the Omnitrix

Time for a trip down memory lane as we gear up for a Ben 10 Xtreme Review with a warm-up discussion! Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes! Support the show We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal t...

Nov 23, 20231 hr 38 minSeason 12Ep. 5

Megamind: Nature vs. Nurture, the Toxicity of Nice Guy Syndrome & Twisting Superhero Story Tropes

Ever wondered how your upbringing and environment influence your life decisions and personality? Can you alter your destiny by making conscious choices? Join us as we dissect the 2010 blockbuster animated film, Megamind, analyzing its central theme of Nature vs Nurture. We go on a fascinating exploration of the characters Megamind, Metro Man, and Tighten (Titan), scrutinizing the impact of their upbringing and circumstances on their life paths. We take a hard look at the intriguing character of ...

Nov 14, 20231 hr 3 minSeason 12Ep. 4

Knight's & Magic: From Mecha Enthusiast to Talented Magician & Ingenious Designer of Giant Robots

Get ready to embark on an enlightening journey into the world of anime, more specifically, the intriguing series, Knight's End Magic. We share our insights on the captivating tale of a reincarnated software engineer turned mech pilot, drawing compelling comparisons with the protagonist of Assassination Classroom. Listen as we delve into the political conflicts, the significance of the character Ernestine, and the remarkable balance between Max and magic in the series. As we go deeper, we reflect...

Nov 13, 20231 hr 3 minSeason 12Ep. 4

Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 1): Badass Characters, Curse Techniques, and Not a Naruto Clone

Imagine being able to immerse yourself in a realm where magic, curses, and dynamic characters collide! This Jujutsu Kaisen-focused episode promises to unravel the fascinating world of the breakout anime of 2020. We kick things off with a spirited comparison of Jujutsu Kaisen's art style and storyline with the ever-popular Demon Slayer, and debate its potential to join the illustrious ranks of the 'Big Three' anime series. We'll also take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we discuss the resurg...

Nov 12, 20231 hr 17 minSeason 12Ep. 3

Nerdy News Special #7: Blade Reboot, Anime Updates, and Jada Pinkett's Memoir

Buckle in, pop culture enthusiasts! Your entertainment odyssey begins with a heated debate on the Blade movie reboot. Strap in as we tackle the reported troubles of script rewrites and budget cuts that might even see Mahershala Ali exit the project. We won't stop there; we'll dig up the legacy of the original Blade trilogy and analyze the hurdles the current reboot team needs to overcome. Rev your engines as we speed into the world of anime and gaming. We'll unravel the enigma of the upcoming Dr...

Nov 11, 20231 hr 56 min

The Nightmare Before Christmas: Exploring New Things, Rekindling Our Passions & Adapting to Criticisms

Embark with us on a nostalgic journey, as we toast to the 30th anniversary of the timeless Tim Burton classic, "The Nightmare Before Christmas"! This episode promises an in-depth exploration of the movie's intriguing soundtrack, captivating plot, and its unwavering popularity. Prepare to unravel the original tale of Trickster Jack, delve into the evolution of jack-o-lanterns and explore how Burton intelligently tailored the movie's length to cater to children's short attention spans. Experience ...

Oct 13, 20231 hr 18 minSeason 12Ep. 2

Hunter x Hunter: The Xtreme Review (Hunter Exam & Heaven's Arena)

Ever wondered how the slow-paced Hunter Hunter Exam arc, the unique Nen abilities of the characters, and the anime's deviation from its original manga version all come together to create the incredible anime, Hunter X Hunter? The thrill is in the journey. This episode features an insightful discussion with Kokugatsu and Playboi, as we navigate the twists and turns of this riveting anime. From analyzing the symbolic importance of the Tower Phase, to comparing the areas where Hunter Hunter diverge...

Oct 01, 20231 hr 48 min

Nerdy News Special #6: Celebrities in Hot Water, Superhero Movie Fatigue & A Slew of Anime Announcements!

Ever wonder why translating superhero stories from animation to live-action feels like a Herculean task? This episode is all about that and more as we dive into the world of superheroes, anime, and video games. We dissect the impending reboot of the Warner Brothers Justice League trilogy, unearthing some of our concerns about character compromises and the potential of a new Doctor Doom squaring off with the Avengers. With every discussion, we challenge the norms, question decisions, and ponder t...

Oct 01, 20231 hr 47 minSeason 12Ep. 2

Netflix's Resident Evil: The Post-Apocalyptic Cost of Doing Business

Can you imagine a city filled with zombies, secret corporate agendas, and mysteries lurking at every corner? Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where Kokugatsu is going solo for the first time, shedding light on the thrilling Resident Evil TV Series that aired on Netflix last year! Dissect the transformation of the iconic character Albert Wesker, now portrayed by the late Lance Reddick, and the riveting plotlines of young Jade and Billy in 2022 and adult Jade in 2036. Let's zone into this su...

Oct 01, 20231 hr 10 minSeason 12Ep. 1

Nerdy News Special #5: Celebrity Breakups, The Montgomery Brawl, and the Barbie Emancipation

Ready for a wild ride through the colorful worlds of movies, television, and gaming? Brace yourselves as we, your humble hosts, tackle the hottest topics in entertainment, from the current movie scene to the exciting gaming world. First stop on our journey - the controversial Barbie movie and the recent box office flop that was DC's The Flash. We'll also dive into the messy world of celebrity breakups, featuring Ariana Grande and Halle Berry. As we navigate through this rollercoaster of news, Pr...

Sep 12, 20231 hr 32 min

Medabots: The Pokémon Clone with Potential

Ready to blast into the past with some nostalgic anime discussion? We're breaking down the world of Medabots, diving deep into its plot, characters, and the hair-raising World Robattle Cup. Explore with us, as we spin tales of Medafighters, golden hexagonal metals, and the elusive Medaforce attack. Discussing protagonists like Ikki Tenryou, his friend Erika, and their bouts with the likes of the RubberRobo Gang and the rise of the Kilobots! we take you on a trip down memory lane. We hope for a M...

Sep 11, 202336 minSeason 11Ep. 10

One-Punch Man (Seasons 1 and 2): A Hero for Fun and the Man Becoming a Monster

Ever wondered why ONE-PUNCH MAN's, Saitama, can take down any opponent with just a single punch? Who might be the strongest character in the anime world? Today, join JetBlackXtreme, Kokugatsu, TalosGundam, PurpOneHunnid and Professor Tuck, as we take you on a thrilling discussion about the enigmatic world of anime, specifically revolving around ONE-PUNCH MAN. We'll unearth the secret behind Saitama's power, introduce you to some unforgettable characters, and have an animated debate about who rea...

Sep 11, 20231 hr 25 minSeason 11Ep. 9

Dragon Ball Z: The Xtreme Review (Majin Buu Saga)

Ever wondered why Super Saiyan 3 only appears in Goku's base form? Or what effect the grandiose goodness of Grand Supreme Kai had on Majin Buu? This episode is a rollercoaster ride through the enthralling Buu Saga of Dragon Ball Z, and we promise you answers to these burning questions and so much more. We explore the power scaling of Super Saiyan 3, analyze the yellow chakra of rage, and delve deep into the character development of Vegeta from villain to anti-hero. We do apologize for this episo...

Sep 11, 20235 hr 32 min

Nerdy News Special #4: An Eclectic Blend of Conspiracies, Animation, and Cinema

What if you could unravel the mystery of strange alien sightings? That’s exactly what we do in the first part of this exhilarating episode. We kick off with an unconventional debate with a guest, Kazi, about extraterrestrial conspiracies and then segue into the animated world, discussing the cinematic milestones of Barbie and Oppenheimer, and the intriguing prospect of Terry Crews voicing a character in the Lilo and Stitch franchise. The Marvel Universe never fails to keep us on the edge of our ...

Aug 04, 20231 hr 27 min

Invader Zim: Alien Invasions, Dystopian Outcomes and UFO Whistleblowers

JetBlackXtreme and Professor Tuck takes a trip down memory lane with first-time guest, PurpOneHunnid, by revisiting the comical world of Invader Zim! Exploring peculiarities and quirks of the Irken race, sharing a few laughs over Zim's paradoxical intelligence and myriad of failed attempts at world domination, shining the spotlight on Richard Stephen Horvitz, the talented voice actor of Zim and other iconic characters! We'll also talk about the Las Vegas UFO incident and the broader implications...

Aug 04, 202354 minSeason 11Ep. 5

The Bittersweet Climax of Teen Titans (Season 5): Divided & United, Beast Boy's Coming-of-Age and Starfire's Romance in Tokyo

Finally, we'll walk you through the emotionally charged ending of " Teen Titans "! Digging into why it ended on that cliffhanger and how that compares with other anime series like Dragon Ball Z and Attack on Titan! Unwrapping the family dynamics within the Titans and Beast Boy's upbringing! As we wrap up with the movie, " Trouble in Tokyo ", we'll look ahead to fresh projects waiting in the wings. Let's zone in this conclusion to a cult classic cartoon that both adults and teenagers can enjoy! T...

Jul 23, 20231 hr 49 min

A Deeper Dive into Teen Titans (Season 4): Raven's Potential, Social Issues in Animated Worlds, and AI's Impact on Creatives

Ready to uncover the complexities of Raven and Trigon's relationship in our enlightening chat on Teen Titans? Get set to join us as we dissect notable episodes like 'Stranded', engage in a lively discourse about the never-ending nerd wars, and demystify the differences between manga and anime. We promise an emotionally animated discussion, filled with humor and insight that will leave you with a fresh perspective on your favorite animated series. In a world where technology is continually evolvi...

Jul 22, 20231 hr 47 min

Further Exploration of Teen Titans (Season 3): The Power of the Mind, Cyborg's Duality and the Obsession of Technological Perfection

Dive into the depths of Teen Titans Season 3 and uncover a multifaceted Cyborg like you've never seen before. This episode promises to take you on a thrilling journey through Cyborg's internal struggle of being half man, half machine, his infiltration of the Hive Academy, and promising relationships with Gizmo, Jinx, and Mammoth. We also pull back the curtain on Jinx, unraveling her transformation into a hero and her connection with Cyborg. Unleash the thrill as we dive into the enigma of Red X,...

Jul 21, 20231 hr 46 min

Exploring Emotional Depths and Psychologies in Teen Titans (Season 2): Self-Doubt, Vulnerability and the Hedgehog's Dilemma Within Terra

Crack open the vault of the Teen Titans' emotional complexities with us, your hosts J.B. and Kokugatsu! Witness as we navigate the shadowy labyrinth of the second season, throwing a spotlight on Terra and the hefty implications of the Hedgehog's Dilemma. Unearth the hidden layers of Terra's character, the tendrils of her fear, and the wayward trust she places in Slade. We invite you to journey along as we navigate the minefield of doubt that the Titans grapple with, showcasing how life, in its u...

Jul 20, 20231 hr 45 min
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