Series 2, Episode 10 - "Well I know Telford isn't the most desirable place to work but it seems a little extreme to brainwash your staff into accepting it."

Hello TARDIS travellers and Cyber Fans, and welcome back to Hit or Miss: Doctor Who! After a little time spent exploring the final frontier, we're back in the TARDIS to continue our Cybermen season — and this time, we're stepping away from television altogether! For our first ever Big Finish review, Mike, D.K. and returning guest Stephen from Adventures in Space and Time take a trip into the world of Doctor Who audio to discuss Human Resources, the two-part finale to the first series of the Eighth Doctor Adventures. With Paul McGann's Eighth Doctor and Sheridan Smith's Lucie Miller at its heart, Human Resources takes us from the world of corporate recruitment to an altogether more terrifying job interview, as the Cybermen enter the picture and the Doctor finds himself facing one of his oldest and deadliest enemies. Before getting into the story itself, we take a look at Big Finish, the wider world of Doctor Who audio and some of our favourite Cybermen appearances outside television. We also discuss the uncertain future of Doctor Who on television and consider what we'd like to see when — and if — the TARDIS returns to our screens. Then it's time for Human Resources: its writing, humour and corporate satire, the performances, Nicholas Briggs' direction, the excellent sound design and production, and some genuinely fantastic twists and surprises along the way. Is Part One merely laying the groundwork for an explosive second half? How effectively are the Cybermen used? And can a story set around office life really make us fear the workplace more than we already do?

Links for Stephen:

• Adventures in Time and Space: A Doctor Who Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​

• Gene Genie Reviews: A Life on Mars/Ashes to Ashes Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​

• You Can't Handle The Review! - A Film Review Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​

• Email: thistlepodcasts@outlook.com.

• Thistle Podcasts Facebook page: https://www.facebook.c...​

• ThistlePodcasts Instagram Page: https://www.instagram....​

• Dr Who Pod Facebook: https://m.facebook.com...​

• Dr Who Pod Instagram: / adventuresintimeandspa... ​

Follow Mike and the podcasts all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913

Follow D.K everywhere via linktr.ee/dannykingdom

Hosted and written by Michael Wilson

Co-hosted and additional material by D.K

Editor & Producer - Michael K. Wilson

Created by Michael K. Wilson

Based on a format by Will Templar

"I did like Sheridan Smith in "Two Packets of Lager" and stuff like that."

Episode 164 - "Do you know that hawks and wolves mate for life? The Bishop didn't even leave us that... not even that."

The 80s Fantasy Season may have ridden off into the sunset some time ago, but apparently the quest wasn't quite over yet... We're finally bringing you our planned-but-delayed review of Richard Donner's medieval fantasy adventure Ladyhawke! Joining host Michael for this long-awaited return to the world of knights, curses and animal transformations are Sandy, stepping into the breach once again, and Adrienne, the very person responsible for putting Ladyhawke on our original 80s Fantasy Season list! Before we get into our verdict, we're taking a look behind the scenes at how Ladyhawke came together, Richard Donner's long struggle to get the film made, the inspirations behind the story, its unusual casting history, and the rather infamous decision to give a medieval fantasy film a synthesiser-heavy, progressive-rock-inspired soundtrack. We also look at the performances, direction, locations, production design and visual effects, and why Ladyhawke can sometimes look considerably more convincing than it feels narratively. Finally, we reveal our scores and ask the all-important question: does Ladyhawke deserve its cult reputation? Or is there more magic here to be found?

Links: ​

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

The Silver Screen Podcast is also available WHEREVER you get your audio podcasts.

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"I told the truth, Lord. How can I learn any moral lessons when you keep confusing me this way?"

Cinema Classics Number 31 - "The mediator between the head and the hands must be the heart."

Few films have shaped the history of cinema quite like Metropolis. Fritz Lang's groundbreaking 1927 masterpiece didn't just help define science fiction—it redefined what film itself could be. Nearly a century later, its towering cityscapes, astonishing visual effects and timeless questions about technology, class and humanity continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. In this extended two-hour edition of Silver Screen: Cinema Classics, Michael Wilson is joined by co-host DK and returning guest Tobi to take a deep dive into one of the most influential films ever made. Together they explore the recently restored version of Metropolis, discussing its remarkable production history, revolutionary effects, unforgettable imagery, political and religious symbolism, themes of industrialisation, and what it truly means to be human. Along the way they also examine the film's enduring legacy, There's an extra twist this month too. Alongside the restored original, DK also reviews Giorgio Moroder's famous 1984 reconstruction, complete with its rock soundtrack and colour tinting. Throughout the episode the team compares both versions, debating whether Moroder's bold reinterpretation offers an accessible gateway into Lang's masterpiece or whether nothing can truly replace the original. As always, the discussion also ventures Behind the Scenes, From the Schüfftan Process and the iconic Maschinenmensch to the rediscovery of the long-lost footage that helped restore the film to something close to Lang's original vision, there's no shortage of cinematic history to uncover. Finally, the team reveal their favourite performances, moments and characters before awarding their scores and answering the biggest question of all... Is Metropolis simply one of the most important films ever made... or is it still one of the greatest?

Links:

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Follow D.K everywhere via https://linktr.ee/dannykingdom

Follow Tobi at @darksonic.bsky.social

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson

Co-hosted and co-written by D.K

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Your magnificent city, Father - and you the brain of this city - and all of us in the city's light...And where are the people, Father, whose hands built your city?"

Episode 162 - "I see without seeing. To me, darkness is as clear as daylight. What am I?"

Riddle me this, podcast pals... Silver Screen Podcast is back for another deep dive into a cinematic sequel — or, in this case, threequel — as the Bat-Signal shines over Gotham and we revisit Joel Schumacher's Batman Forever. Michael is back in the host's chair, joined by regular co-host D.K., returning guest Lady Vean, and first-timer Sean Connell for a packed trip to Gotham City. Batman Forever represented a very different direction for the franchise. But beneath the neon, spectacle and increasingly colourful approach, is there a more thoughtful Batman story hiding? We delve into the film's exploration of Bruce Wayne's psychology, his connection with Dick Grayson, and Batman's relationship with fear. We also discuss the film's villains, its bizarre romance subplot, its often-questionable humour, and the tonal shifts that make Batman Forever such a fascinating — and divisive — chapter in the franchise. We'll also take a closer look at Joel Schumacher's direction as well as the performances, visual effects, action sequences and soundtrack. And then there's the Schumacher Cut. We discuss the legendary alternate version of Batman Forever, the additional footage that reportedly exists, what we know about the darker original cut, and whether we might ever actually get to see it. So dust off your Robin costume, grab a suspiciously large penny and prepare to take a trip back to 1995 as Silver Screen asks whether Batman Forever deserves the reputation it has acquired over the years — or whether nostalgia has painted our memories a little brighter. Even when it comes to Bat-nipples and wall-scaling cars.

Links:

Silver Screen Podcast 'Batman' review: https://youtu.be/lHV2Yk0dthU

Silver Screen Podcast 'Batman Returns' review: https://youtu.be/zvonXR2TgFM

Follow Sean on Instagram: @smcbeadfactory @sconnell82

Find D.K everywhere via http://linktr.ee/dannykingdom

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Hosted by Michael Wilson

Co-hosted by D.K

Written by Michael Wilson

Additional Material by D.K

Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson

“I'm both Bruce Wayne and Batman. Not because I have to be... now because I choose to be.”

Episode 161 - "So I guess you have a choice. You want a war? Or do you wanna just give me a gun?"

The Silver Screen Podcast’s sequel season continues as we return to the world of professional assassins, blood markers and very strict hotel rules for a look at 2017’s John Wick: Chapter 2! Mike is joined by Michael Whaley and Lynn as we discuss whether Chad Stahelski’s sequel improves upon its predecessor, expanding the mythology and introducing us to the mysterious High Table, the Continental’s wider world and the consequences of John Wick being dragged back into the life he left behind. We’ll be discussing Keanu Reeves’ continued evolution into the role, the film’s new characters, its spectacular action sequences and increasingly elaborate world-building, as well as the stunning visual style and that unforgettable hall-of-mirrors finale. But does John Wick: Chapter 2 successfully build upon the foundations of the original, or does the relentless violence and occasionally sluggish pacing hold it back? Join us as we check back into the Continental and discover whether this sequel has what it takes to stay on the right side of the High Table!

CW: Suicide - 44:53 to 47:21

Links:

Silver Screen Podcast 'John Wick' review: https://youtu.be/qSAym-y-6xo

Michael Whaley;

• Instagram: @alwaysmichaelwhaley @cmwhaleyphoto

• YouTube: @turnaphrasefilms

Lynn:

Adventures in Time and Space: A Doctor Who Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​

Thistle Podcasts Facebook page: https://www.facebook.c...​

ThistlePodcasts Instagram Page: https://www.instagram....​

Dr Who Pod Facebook: https://m.facebook.com...​

Dr Who Pod Instagram: / adventuresintimeandspa... ​

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"You leave me no choice but to declare you excommunicado."

Episode 160 - "You can't see the eyes of the demon, until him come callin'."

Welcome to Sequel Season on the Silver Screen Podcast! This week, we're kicking things off by heading into the crime-ridden, sweat-soaked streets of a futuristic L.A to revisit Predator 2, the ambitious follow-up to one of the greatest action films ever. With Arnold Schwarzenegger absent, Danny Glover steps into the lead role as Lieutenant Mike Harrigan, a detective investigating a string of brutal murders that gradually reveal something far more dangerous than rival gangs. But can this often-overlooked sequel escape the shadow of its legendary predecessor, or is it simply a case of bigger guns, more explosions and diminishing returns? Join DK, Michael, Sandy and Lynn as they discuss the film's surprisingly effective detective story, its expansion of Predator lore, the unforgettable introduction of the City Hunter, the controversial depiction of a "future" 1997 Los Angeles, and one of the franchise's most iconic final acts. They also explore Danny Glover's against-type casting, Bill Paxton's scene-stealing performance, Gary Busey's mysterious government operation, Stephen Hopkins' frenetic direction, groundbreaking visual effects, and the famous behind-the-scenes stories that shaped the production—including the battle to avoid an NC-17 rating and the sequel that almost reunited audiences with Arnie. Is Predator 2 an underrated cult classic that deserves far more respect than it receives? Or does it remain an overblown sequel that never quite escapes the jungle left behind by the original? Listen now and let us know your thoughts!

Links:

Silver Screen Podcast 'Predator' review: https://youtu.be/J689jsow4SU

Lynn:

Adventures in Time and Space: A Doctor Who Podcast: https://open.spotify.c...​

Dr Who Pod Facebook: https://m.facebook.com...​

Dr Who Pod Instagram: / adventuresintimeandspa... ​

Find D.K everywhere via http://linktr.ee/dannykingdom

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Hosted and Written by D.K.

Additional Material by Michael Wilson.

Created, Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Don't worry, asshole. You'll get another chance."

Cinema Classics Number 30 - "You know I broke a promise. Never to fight again."

Bruce Lee changed action cinema forever, but does his first starring role still pack the same punch over fifty years later? This month on The Silver Screen Podcast: Cinema Classics, Michael is joined by resident music supervisor and first-time Cinema Classics panellist Al Trotter to take a deep dive into the 1971 martial arts landmark The Big Boss. Together they discuss the film that launched Bruce Lee to international superstardom, exploring its fascinating production history, troubled shoot in Thailand, brutal fight choreography, lasting influence on action cinema, and the complicated censorship that has surrounded the film for decades. Along the way they ask whether the simple revenge story still holds up today, how Bruce's incredible screen presence elevates every scene, and whether this classic deserves its legendary reputation. Plus, behind-the-scenes trivia, favourite moments, memorable lines, and, of course, the all-important final scores. Join us as we revisit the film that started one of cinema's greatest legacies.

Links:

Find Mike and the podcast all over the internet via https://linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/g479

Follow the podcast on Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/3xH6

Music Composed and Performed by Al Trotter

• Follow Al on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dap8b58TT/

• Follow Al on YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCENf_17-Bi8HitVg7w5rd9Q?si=3_7ZCmLXLAp4-f3F

Join the Silver Screen Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/329752622011042/?ref=share

E-mail us at mwilsonba1982@gmail.com

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson.

Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.

"Beat it or I'll kill you right now."

Series 8, Episode 6 - "You can't scare me, I'm defending the Muppet episode of Strange New Worlds."

The Kobayashi Maru. The ultimate no-win scenario. But what if the real lesson isn't about winning at all? Captain Michael Wilson is joined by First Officers D.K. and Justin Avery Smith as the crew continue their journey through Star Trek's greatest holodeck adventures with one of the most beloved episodes of Star Trek: Prodigy. This time we're stepping onto the USS Enterprise-D bridge alongside some of the most iconic figures in Star Trek history as Dal attempts to conquer the legendary Kobayashi Maru test. Along the way we discuss Aaron Waltke's love letter to the franchise, the ingenious use of archive performances from Leonard Nimoy, James Doohan, René Auberjonois and Nichelle Nichols' fellow castmates, gorgeous animation, emotional character development, AC/DC, Murf eating grenades, and why this episode perfectly balances fan service with genuine storytelling. Before that, though, there's the usual madness as Hailing Frequencies Open returns, the crew tackle another round of Hit or Miss, and Poetry Corner somehow survives another week. Is Kobayashi an unbeatable triumph, or does this famous simulation finally meet its match? Join us as we find out. Live Long and Prosper... and remember: sometimes the greatest victory is learning why you couldn't win in the first place.

Links:

Follow D.K everywhere via https://linktr.ee/DannyKingdom

Follow Justin at:

justinaverysmith.com

Facebook and Instagram - Justinaverysmith

BlueSky - justinaverysmith@bluesky.social

TikTok - @justaverysmith

YouTube - @JustAVerySmith

Follow Mike and the podcast all over the internet via linktr.ee/mikespods

Follow Mike on Discord: MikeOfSteel#2913

Host /Editor/Producer - Michael K. Wilson

Co-hosts - D.K & Justin Avery Smith

Created by Michael K. Wilson

Based on a format by Michael Wilson & Will Templar

"We pick on the Oberth-class so much on this show."

In memory of those who inspire us to go boldly.