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We rate Good Boy, salvage a lost recording, and settle into a dog’s-eye horror that hits harder than slashers. Between bourbon, Pineapple Express, and hallway dread, we trace empathy, ownership, and why silence can be the scariest instrument on the board.

• rating the categories: acting, cinematography, score, story, rewatchability
• dog-as-protagonist and sensory POV through scent and silence
• empathy for innocence vs desensitization to human death
• the fox image, ghost retriever, and metaphor of illness
• long hallways, patience, and when silence works
• responsibility of pet ownership and listening to warning cues
• alternate cuts: guard dog vs retriever, how the plot changes
• shoutouts to listeners, Blade debate, and Air Bud jokes

“Thanks to our newest listeners in Springfield—Cadarius, this one’s for you. Cheers to Air Bud and to every nepo baby burning in hell—respectfully.”

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Cameron Kade's journey from promising football recruit to something much darker explores how institutions exploit young athletes and the cult-like devotion sports can demand. The film examines the dangerous allure of fame, fortune, and the cost of tunnel vision when pursuing a dream at all costs.

• Marlon Wayans delivers a standout dramatic performance as Isaiah White, breaking from his usual comedic roles
• The film uses striking cinematography, including helmet-cam shots and x-ray sequences showing physical trauma
• Jim Jeffries makes a surprising appearance in a serious role that adds to the film's exploration of exploitation
• Tunnel vision serves as both visual technique and thematic element throughout the movie
• The cult-like aspects of sports culture are made explicit through ritualistic imagery and Satan worship metaphors
• Third act becomes increasingly chaotic, leaving some viewers with unresolved questions
• Commentary on how parents can sell away their children's futures through sports dreams
• Examination of CTE and physical toll of football adds real-world relevance to the horror elements

If you enjoyed our discussion of "Him," please subscribe to High and Dry Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on social media. Email us your thoughts or suggestions for future episodes!

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James Gunn's Superman delivers a powerful message about radical kindness in a cynical world, earning our highest podcast rating ever with its vibrant visuals and standout performances.

• Superman embodies genuine goodness without being naive or simplistic
• David Corenswet brings warmth and authenticity to the iconic role
• Rachel Brosnahan delivers the most compelling Lois Lane in decades
• Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor parallels modern tech billionaires with superb depth
• Punk rock soundtrack enhances the film's theme of standing up against corrupt systems
• Supporting characters including Mr. Terrific and Hawkgirl add rich dimension
• Story focuses on doing what's right versus what's politically expedient
• Colorful visuals and cinematography mark a refreshing departure from previous DCEU films
• Superman chooses to follow his moral compass despite criticism and pushback
• Film demonstrates that superhero stories can be optimistic without sacrificing depth

This superhero film proves that good storytelling doesn't require moral ambiguity to be compelling—sometimes what we need most is a reminder that choosing kindness is the most radical act of all.

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