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

Xiaolin Showdown: Nostalgia, Character Evolution, and Controversial Sequels

Want to relive the excitement of your favorite childhood cartoons? Tune in as JetBlackXtreme takes you on a nostalgic journey through "Xiaolin Showdown" and its sequel, "Xiaolin Chronicles." In this episode, we promise you'll rediscover the thrill of watching Omi, Kimiko, Raimundo, and Clay on their epic quests for the mystical Shen Gong Wu artifacts. We'll reminisce about the joy of catching episodes on networks like Kids WB and Cartoon Network and contrast it with the modern ease of streaming ...

Jun 18, 202425 minSeason 14Ep. 17

Ed, Edd n Eddy: Middle School Hustlers and Summertime Shenanigans

Remember those lazy Saturday mornings, cereal bowl in hand, as you sat glued to the antics of "Ed, Edd n Eddy?" This episode of the Zone Podcast will take you right back. Join me, JetBlackXtreme, along with Kokugatsu, Apocrypha and Professor Tuck, as we celebrate the unique charm of this classic cartoon. From its quirky hand-drawn style to humor that balances perfectly between childlike whimsy and subtle adult jokes, we uncover why this show still holds a special place in our hearts. Expect laug...

Jun 17, 20241 hr 20 minSeason 14Ep. 16

Treasure Planet: A Stone That the Builders Refused

How did Disney's "Treasure Planet" become an overlooked masterpiece despite its groundbreaking animation and compelling story? Join us as we dive into the enchanting world of "Treasure Planet" with special guests Leia, her brother DewnTagz, Tinara and later, Kokugatsu. We'll explore the film's unique blend of 2D and 3D animation, its memorable characters, and the adventurous spirit that makes its music so captivating. We'll break down Jim Hawkins' journey from a rebellious youth to a heroic youn...

Jun 16, 20241 hr 30 minSeason 14Ep. 15

Kendrick Lamar vs Drake: Unpacking the Rap Civil War and the Impact of AI on Music Authenticity

Can one verse truly ignite a war? On this special after-dark episode of the ZONE Podcast, we break down the explosive feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, often termed the Rap Civil War. We start by exploring the initial tensions that arose from Kendrick's iconic "Control" verse alongside Big Sean, and how their relationship grew increasingly intricate during their joint tour. With insights into the crucial roles played by Pusha T, Pharrell, Birdman, and Lil Wayne, we uncover how historical be...

Jun 16, 20241 hr 33 min

Jackie Chan Adventures & Rush Hour: Martial Arts, Wisdom, and Certified Hood Detectives

What if your favorite childhood animated series could teach you as much about life as it did about martial arts? Join us on this exciting episode of The Zone Podcast as Jet Black Extreme and Kokugatsu share their passionate review of "Jackie Chan Adventures." Kokugatsu opens up about his personal connection to the series and its characters, and we both express our admiration for the show's humor, adventurous spirit, and the iconic talismans. We also explore Jackie Chan's authenticity and humilit...

Jun 15, 20241 hr 50 minSeason 14Ep. 14

Magic the Gathering (Modern Horizons 3): Booster Packs, Budget Building, and the Year of the Eldrazi

What if your next Magic: The Gathering deck could be built on a budget without sacrificing power or complexity? In this episode of the ZONE Podcast, our dynamic hosts JetBlackXtreme, Saitama Smash, Talos Gundam, and Tattooed Enigma explore the thrilling intricacies of Modern Horizons 3. Tattoo kicks things off with a riveting recount of his luck opening booster packs, pulling game-changing cards like Ugin's Binding and Emrakul, the World Anew. Saitama Smash shares his latest strategies in Puerto...

Jun 14, 20241 hr 28 minSeason 14Ep. 13

Madame Web: "Cassie's Angels" and a Box Office Tragedy We All Foresaw

Ever wondered why some movies fail so spectacularly despite a stellar cast? Join me, JetBlackXtreme, as I unravel the half-baked production that is the "Madame Web" movie. Prepare yourself for my brutally honest exploration of why this film missed the mark, from its awkward dialogue to its divergence from the comic book origins. We'll go beyond the surface, dissecting the screenplay penned by writers notorious for their work on "Dracula Untold" and "Morbius," and question whether their involveme...

Jun 14, 202430 minSeason 14Ep. 12

Phineas and Ferb: Inventions, Adventures, and Life Lessons

Ready to revisit the ingenious world of "Phineas and Ferb"? Join us as we explore the extraordinary inventions, unforgettable musical numbers, and hilarious escapades that made this animated series an all-time favorite! You'll also hear from our co-host, Kokugatsu, who draws fascinating comparisons between this show and "Dexter's Laboratory," and even finds parallels with characters like Skylar from "Breaking Bad". Dive into discussions on sibling rivalries, the perpetual cat-and-mouse game betw...

Jun 13, 202439 minSeason 14Ep. 11

Solo Leveling (Season 1): A Second Chance to be a Badass!

Prepare to be captivated as Talos Gundam, a dedicated "Solo Leveling" enthusiast, guides us through the multifaceted world of this sensational anime. Discover the intriguing journey of Sung Jin-Woo, who evolves from an underwhelming E-rank hunter into a powerhouse, navigating perilous double dungeons and high-stakes battles. Talos’ passion for the series is infectious as he dissects the anime, light novel, manhwa, and manga versions, offering unique insights into every twist and turn of Jin-Woo'...

Jun 12, 20241 hr 32 minSeason 14Ep. 10

Nerdy News Special #14: Assassin's Creed Shadows, Rap Civil War, and the Diddler Strikes Again!

Ready for an action-packed, nerdy adventure? Tune in to The ZONE Podcast where we start with breaking news that'll get any anime and music fan buzzing. Discover the latest updates on "Mashle: Magic and Muscles" receiving a sequel anime, the hot new collaboration track "You, My Everything" by Drake and Sexy Red, and the much-anticipated arrival of "Oshi no Ko" Season 2 on July 3rd. We'll also spark a lively debate on why niche Marvel characters, like Madame Web, might thrive better in television ...

Jun 11, 20241 hr 52 min

Tales of Wedding Rings (Season 1): Magical Realms, Polygamy with Princesses, and the Intricacies of Anime Royalty

Imagine stumbling into a role where marrying princesses is your only way to save the world! That's exactly what Sato's life has come to in the enchanting anime "Tales of Wedding Rings." Joined by the self-touted Ring King, we delve into Sato's unexpected journey, the complex dynamics of his polygamous quest, and the fiery allure of the Fire Princess. Our laughter-filled conversation spins a yarn around love's magical powers within the show, the provocative themes it tackles, and how it stacks up...

May 17, 202455 minSeason 14Ep. 9

Chained Soldier (Season 1): Power-Ups, Team Dynamics, and Fan Service Discourse

Imagine venturing into a world where consuming peaches could grant you supernatural powers and where your domestic skills might just be your ticket to becoming an unexpected hero. That's exactly the trip we're taking as we unpack "Chained Soldier," or "Mato Seihei no Slave," dissecting its unique societal roles and the depth of its characters like Yuki and Kyoka, whose lives are deeply intertwined with the demon-filled Mato. We'll explore the gender role reversal at play, as women wield special ...

May 10, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 14Ep. 8

Kim Possible: A Nostalgic Journey with Espionage, Villains, and Hearty Debate

Strap in for an espionage adventure like no other as we, your nerdy hosts JetBlackXtreme, Kokugatsu, TalosGundam, and Professor Tuck, take a trip down memory lane to dissect the world of "Kim Possible." Our lively discussion dives headfirst into Kim's action-packed missions, Ron's endearing clumsiness, and the cavalcade of memorable villains, all the while exploring our personal connections to these animated icons. Whether you were charmed by Shego’s fiery spirit or sang along with Rufus' unforg...

May 07, 202453 minSeason 14Ep. 7

Blue Lock (Season 1): The World of Competitive Soccer, Driven by Ego

Every time I lace up my cleats and step onto the pitch, the roar of competition drowns out the world. That's the pulse-pounding heart of "Blue Lock," the series that sets friendship on the bench and puts fierce rivalry front and center. JetBlackXtreme and Mira Jane join forces to tackle the cutthroat universe where Yoichi Isagi and his comrades battle to become the ultimate striker. We're dishing out the gritty details on the characters that pull us in and the soundtrack that sets our hearts rac...

May 03, 20241 hr 12 minSeason 14Ep. 6

Nerdy News Special #13: Velma Returns, Stellar Blade Censorship and the Resurgence of Fallout

Prepare to get your mind blown by Hollywood's latest dance with AI—yes, we're talking silver screen magic sprinkled with artificial intelligence. As OpenAI takes a seat at Tinseltown's table, we weigh in on the groundbreaking innovations reshaping filmmaking and the fierce debate over the soul of creativity. From the CGI blunders to My Hero Academia's unexpected narrative twist with Dark Mike, we peel back the curtain on how fan-powered stories sometimes steal the spotlight from official canon. ...

May 02, 20242 hr 20 min

Fallout TV (Season 1): Ethical Quandaries, Sheltered Idealism, and a Journey Across Post-Apocalypse

Prepare to be transported to a world where the phrase "War never changes" resonates through abandoned streets and vaults of intrigue. JetBlackXtreme breaks down the Fallout TV show with Tinara and the Tattooed Enigma, connecting our cherished memories from the iconic game series to the dynamic characters and storylines of its television counterpart. We share our binge-watching strategies and compare notes on the impact of having all episodes at our fingertips versus the suspense of weekly releas...

Apr 26, 20241 hr 20 minSeason 14Ep. 5

How High: A Certified Hood Stoner Comedy

Remember that time you first stumbled upon a movie that was so absurdly hilarious, it became an instant cult classic in your heart? Well, buckle up, because JetBlackXtreme and the crew are taking you on a laughter-laced journey through the stoner comedy "How High." We kick things off reminiscing about the THC exam mix-up that had us in stitches, and sharing a kaleidoscope of personal tales from our first encounters with this side-splitting flick. Strap in for a rollicking discussion that's not j...

Apr 21, 20241 hr 37 minSeason 14Ep. 4

Jujutsu Kaisen (Season 2 & Movie): A Certified Hood Anime

Get ready to sink your teeth into the gritty and enchanting universe of "Jujutsu Kaisen," as we unravel the hype this phenomenon has stirred, especially among the black community. You'll be treated to an intricate breakdown of bone-crunching fight scenes, character complexities, and the series' expert blend of humor with the macabre. While Mira Jane's signature insights are missed, her past musings still echo throughout our discussion, enriching our dive into the second season's triumphs and the...

Apr 19, 20241 hr 19 minSeason 14Ep. 3

Dungeons & Dragons: Rolling the Dice and Embracing the Chaos

When the roll of a d20 dictates the fate of your entire adventuring party, you know you're in for a wild ride. Our latest gathering at the virtual table brings the legendary Honor Lord D and a cadre of D&D enthusiasts, from the sage Kokugatsu, to the valiant Mira Jane, to regale you with tales from epic campaigns and side-splitting misadventures. We share the origins of our love for this fantastical game, showcasing how a humble quest for nerd validation or a yearning for escapism can lead t...

Apr 12, 20241 hr 46 minSeason 14Ep. 2

Conquering Blue with Jund Fury: Strategies and Tales from the Magic the Gathering Tables

Ever wondered how a Jund deck could possibly overthrow the mightiest blue decks out there? Strap in for a magical ride as JetBlackXtreme andTalosGundam banter through the complex world of Magic the Gathering deck building and strategies with new cast mate, Tattooed Enigma! We dissect our unique approaches – from the secrets of J.B.'s "Wakanda Forever" deck's infinite combos to Talos' color preferences and the inevitable chuckles we share over the challenges of facing off against blue players and...

Apr 12, 20241 hr 24 minSeason 14Ep. 1

Nerdy News Special #12: Magical Negroes, Quiet on Set, Sweet Baby & the Diddler

Prepare to have your geekiest cravings satisfied with our latest nerdy news feast! We're kicking things off with Oscar cheers for Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr., but it's not all celebrations; we're scrutinizing the unexpected stumble of "The American Society of Magical Negroes" at the box office. And hold onto your seats, because this rollercoaster zips from Sony's sizzling clapback to Dakota Johnson's "Madame Web" comments, right through to the animated realm where "X-Men '97" is schooli...

Apr 12, 20242 hr 26 min

Digimon: The Xtreme Review (Digimon Adventure 01)

Celebrate a digital milestone with us as we journey through 25 years of Digimon's legacy, taking a closer look at the original generation's charm and the unique elements that distinguished it from the crowd. As nostalgia takes over, we promise you'll rediscover the depth of Digimon's characters and the intensity of their psychological challenges. If you've ever puzzled over the true differences between Digivolving in Digimon and evolving in Pokémon, or the strategic battles that set the digital ...

Mar 06, 20241 hr 21 min

Nerdy News Special #11: Deadpool & Wolverine Hypes the Fans, Madame Web Bombs at the Box Office, and Pokemon Legends Z-A Restores Hope

Ever wondered if Daniel Radcliffe could unleash the beast as Wolverine, or how The Rock's recent image could rock the boat for Moana's sequel? Well, grab your capes and get ready to soar through the tumultuous skies of superhero debates and the future of your favorite animated worlds. Alongside our eclectic panel of geeks, including the insightful Kokugatsu and the brilliant Mira Jane, we navigate the latest movie teasers, from Deadpool's triumph to the Fantastic Four's new faces, and passionate...

Mar 01, 20242 hr 34 min

Norbit: A Certified Hood Romance

We kick things off with a riotous bang as 'Norbit' takes center stage on our podcast, where Eddie Murphy's multi-character mastery pulls us into a whirlwind of laughs and relationship real-talk. Get ready to chuckle and nod along as we dissect the oh-so-complicated love triangle of Norbit, his colossal wife Resputia, and the ever-charming Kate. Murphy's shape-shifting performances have us reminiscing on his iconic roles and how they've shaped our expectations of comedy. We're peeling back the la...

Feb 20, 202453 minSeason 13Ep. 10

Head of State: A Certified Hood Election

Ever wondered how a movie like "Head of State" could prognosticate the rise of President Obama? Join us as we celebrate President's Day with a robust discussion on this cultural gem that dared to dream of a black presidency before it was a reality. Professor Tuck's birthday bash sets the stage for a lively exploration of the film's humor, Bernie Mac's unforgettable performance, and the soundtrack that perfectly encapsulates the story's spirit. We don't just stop at the movie's laughter-inducing ...

Feb 20, 202437 minSeason 13Ep. 9

Undercover Brother: A Certified Hood Espionage

Picture the scene: you're settling in for a movie night, and what do you reach for? That's right, the classics with a side of sequels – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Mira Jane and Professor Tuck joins me, JetBlackXtreme, in unwrapping the highs and lows of sequels, including the comedy gold of "Undercover Brother" and when follow-ups like "Undercover Brother 2" or "Coming to America’s" latest offering just don't hit the mark. We joust over whether sequels should be adding to the legacy or bes...

Feb 18, 20241 hr 17 minSeason 13Ep. 8

Hazbin Hotel: One Hell of a Musical Series

Hey there, animation aficionados and dark humor devotees! Join us as we plunge into the sinfully captivating universe of "Hazbin Hotel," where every twist and turn in the lives of hell's most charismatic demons is more scandalous than the last. With our special guests, Leia, and Lunaria, we dissect the show's brilliant concoction of the absurd and profound, from Angel Dust's harrowing journey in the underworld's adult film industry to Charlie's heartwarming quest for redemption in the bowels of ...

Feb 18, 20242 hr 23 minSeason 13Ep. 7

Twilight: Vampires, Werewolves and an Emotionally Tiresome Love Triangle

Ever found yourself inexplicably drawn to a pop culture phenomenon, despite its bewildering reception? That's where Mira Jane, Saitama Smash and JetBlackXtreme lands! We're engaging in a lively conversation about the Twilight film saga, dissecting its depiction of romance and character evolution. We don't shy away from the tough questions, like why Alice Cullen shines as a beacon of interest in a sea of perplexing narratives, and what this series really teaches about love and relationships. Plus...

Feb 17, 20241 hr 56 minSeason 13Ep. 6

Static Shock: A Certified Hood Superhero

As we swing through the streets of Dakota City, we discover the electric tales of Static Shock and the relatable hero, Virgil Hawkins. This episode is charged with discussions about his life, the Big Bang that altered his destiny, and the show's remarkable handling of diversity and representation. But we don't just stop at superhero exploits; we connect Virgil's challenges with today's issues, such as the housing market crisis, remote work tribulations, and the complexities of parenthood—drawing...

Feb 17, 20242 hr 49 minSeason 13Ep. 6

Nerdy News Special #10: The Barbie Movie, Rap Feuds and the Palworld Phenomenon

Ready to tackle the big questions and controversies shaking up the pop culture landscape? Then buckle up for a wild ride with Mira Jane, Professor Tuck, and JetBlackXtreme, as we dissect everything from Barbie's cinematic highs and lows to the fiery dynamics shaping female rap feuds. Get ready to join a debate that's as charged as it is cheeky, where we don't just talk about the entertainment world—we flip it on its head with insights you won't hear anywhere else. We're not just skimming the sur...

Jan 29, 20242 hr 3 min
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