Wicked Indulgence: Movie Reviews, Book Reviews, and TV Deep Dives

• A Court of Wings and Ruin: Book 3- Review

  In this episode of the Wicked Indulgence podcast, we dive deep into our thoughts and experiences with the third book in the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, "A Court of Wings and Ruin." After a lengthy journey through the previous book, which clocked in at around 24-25 hours, we were eager to tackle this installment, especially since it promised to be significantly shorter.We kick off the episode by discussing our excitement about the upcoming dramatized version of the next book on Audible, contemplating whether we should read it first or dive straight into the audio experience. As we transition into our review, we acknowledge that this episode will be one of our longer ones due to the intricate details and rich tapestry of events in the book.We set the stage by clarifying that while the series has been marketed as a fantasy romance, this particular book contains only a few intimate scenes, which we found to be overshadowed by the weight of the ongoing battles and wars. We express our disappointment with the expectations set by "book talk" on social media, which led us to anticipate a much spicier narrative than what we encountered.Despite our initial frustrations, we both agree that the book was engaging and filled with action, leading us to rate it an 8 out of 10 for enjoyment. We appreciate the character development, particularly Feyre's growth and her ability to handle situations with more maturity than in previous books. The pacing of the story kept us invested, and we found ourselves eager to listen during our commutes and breaks.As we delve into the plot, we summarize the beginning where Feyre is back in the Spring Court, pretending to be loyal to Tamlin while secretly gathering intelligence on Highburn's army. We discuss the manipulative character of Ianthe and her predatory behavior towards Lucien, which leads to a dramatic confrontation. Feyre's cleverness shines as she navigates these treacherous waters, ultimately escaping with Lucien and embarking on a journey through the various courts of Prithian.We highlight key moments, such as the battles they face, the alliances they form, and the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters, particularly Feyre and her sisters. The dynamics between Feyre, Tamlin, and Rhys are explored, showcasing the complexities of their relationships and the impact of past traumas.Throughout the episode, we touch on the themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the weight of war, as well as the lighter moments that provide relief amidst the chaos. We also discuss the introduction of new characters and the development of existing ones, particularly the tension between Feyre and her sister Nesta.As we approach the end of the episode, we reflect on the various plot twists and the emotional stakes involved, leading to a climactic battle that tests the characters' resolve. We wrap up by teasing the next episode, where we will continue our exploration of this captivating series, eager to see how the story unfolds in the next installment.Join us as we revel in our media guilty pleasures and share our thoughts on this thrilling fantasy saga!00:00:00 - Introduction to the Book DiscussionThe hosts reflect on their experience reading "A Court of Wings and Ruin," discussing its length and complexity.00:01:35 - Excitement for the Next BookAnticipation builds for the next book in the series, which is shorter and features a dramatized audio version.00:02:17 - Spoiler Warning and OverviewThe hosts prepare listeners for spoilers and outline their approach to discussing the book's highlights.00:02:40 - Not Just a Fantasy RomanceClarification that the book contains limited romantic content, focusing more on the overarching plot and battles.00:05:23 - Disappointment in ExpectationsThe hosts express frustration with the book's perceived lack of spice compared to what was advertised.00:06:10 - Character Development and EnjoymentDiscussion on the character growth, particularly Feyre's, and the overall enjoyment of the book's action and pacing.00:07:21 - Ratings and ReviewsThe hosts rate the book, with one giving it an 8 out of 10 and the other leaning towards 8.5, discussing the reasons behind their scores.00:09:22 - Spice RatingThe hosts evaluate the book's romantic elements, agreeing on a low spice rating due to the focus on war and action.00:10:29 - Themes of War and RelationshipsExploration of how the themes of war impact the characters' relationships and the overall tone of the book.00:13:10 - Plot Summary BeginsThe hosts begin summarizing the plot, starting with Feyre's return to the Spring Court and her undercover mission.00:14:18 - Feyre's Manipulation of the Spring CourtFeyre's strategic actions to gather information and turn Tamlin's court against him are discussed.00:16:43 - Escape from the Spring CourtFeyre's escape plan is revealed, including her confrontation with Ianthe and the rescue of Lucien.00:19:06 - Reunion with RhysFeyre reunites with Rhys and the rest of the Night Court, leading to a significant moment in their relationship.00:20:53 - Introduction of New CharactersThe hosts discuss the introduction of Elaine and Nesta, highlighting their emotional states and dynamics.00:22:02 - High Lords' MeetingThe tension-filled meeting of the High Lords is summarized, showcasing their drama and conflicts.00:29:00 - Tamlin's AccountabilityDiscussion on Tamlin's refusal to take responsibility for his actions and the impact on his relationship with Feyre.00:32:23 - Lucien's Parentage RevealedThe revelation about Lucien's true parentage and its implications for his character are explored.00:34:05 - The Wall Comes DownThe significance of the wall coming down and the subsequent alliance discussions among the High Lords.00:36:34 - Elaine's Engagement and ConflictFeyre and her sisters' attempts to help Elaine navigate her engagement and the challenges they face.00:39:02 - Feyre's Quest for AnswersFeyre's decision to seek out the Surreal for information on dismantling the cauldron is discussed.00:42:11 - The Weaver's Cottage EncounterFeyre's clever trap for Ianthe and the soldiers at the Weaver's cottage is highlighted.00:43:48 - The Battle and AftermathThe aftermath of the battle, including Feyre's emotional response to the Surreal's death and the group's next steps.00:45:10 - Rescue Mission in Highburn's CampThe daring rescue of Elaine and the human girl from Highburn's camp is recounted, showcasing the group's teamwork.

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• Austin Powers: The Groovy Bond Parody That Aged Like Milk

  In this episode of the Wicked Indulgence Podcast, we dive into the world of Austin Powers, the iconic parody of James Bond films created by Mike Myers. Joined by my co-host Kevin, we explore our personal experiences with Bond films and how they shaped our views on spy movies.We kick off the conversation by discussing our childhood memories of Bond films, with Kevin sharing how his family had a mixed relationship with them—his mom disliking them, while his dad was indifferent. We reminisce about the outrageousness of certain Bond films, particularly "Octopussy," which was a point of contention in Kevin's household due to its suggestive title.As we transition into the main topic, we argue about whether "Austin Powers" can be considered a Bond film. Kevin insists that it belongs in the franchise as a parody, while I maintain that it is distinctly its own entity. We then introduce the film's premise, highlighting Austin Powers as a British spy who embodies the groovy spirit of the 1960s.We discuss the film's humor, its absurdity, and how it reflects the cultural landscape of the time. The conversation touches on the film's memorable characters, including Dr. Evil, played by Mike Myers, and the various comedic cameos from actors like Will Ferrell and Carrie Fisher. We also delve into the film's critique of the Bond franchise, pointing out how it exaggerates the tropes and clichés associated with spy films.Throughout the episode, we analyze the film's comedic style, noting how it blends silly humor with social commentary. We reflect on how the film has aged, ultimately agreeing that while it is a guilty pleasure, it has not aged like fine wine. Instead, we conclude that it has aged like milk, particularly due to its outdated portrayals of gender dynamics.As we wrap up, we share some fun trivia about the film, including Mike Myers' inspiration for the character and the film's surprising box office success. We also discuss the potential for a fourth Austin Powers film, speculating on how it might address contemporary issues while retaining the original's charm.Join us for a nostalgic and humorous exploration of "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," as we celebrate its place in pop culture and its impact on comedy.00:00:00 - Growing Up with Bond FilmsDiscussion about childhood experiences with Bond films and family opinions.00:01:12 - Favorite BondsDebate on the best James Bond actors and their unique styles.00:02:20 - Bond Parody: Austin PowersIntroduction to the topic of Austin Powers as a parody of Bond films.00:04:10 - Austin Powers OverviewOverview of the character Austin Powers and the film's premise.00:05:25 - Parody vs. OriginalityDiscussion on the lack of modern parody films compared to classics like Austin Powers.00:06:28 - Mike Myers and the FranchiseExploration of Mike Myers' role in creating the Austin Powers franchise.00:07:35 - Is It Wine or Milk?Introduction of the concept to evaluate the film's quality.00:08:41 - The 60s AestheticDiscussion on the film's representation of 1960s culture and fashion.00:10:22 - Ridiculous VillainsAnalysis of Dr. Evil as a parody of classic Bond villains.00:12:38 - Dr. Evil's PlansOverview of Dr. Evil's absurd plans and their commentary on modern issues.00:16:15 - Cameos and Guest AppearancesHighlighting notable cameos and actors in the film.00:18:43 - Austin Powers' QuirksDiscussion on Austin Powers' character traits and humor style.00:22:59 - Nudity and HumorExploration of the film's use of nudity and potty humor.00:26:03 - Improv and Comedy StyleInsight into the improvisational nature of the film and its comedic style.00:30:28 - Ending and ResolutionSummary of the film's conclusion and its absurdity.00:33:23 - Aging of the FilmDiscussion on how the film has aged and its relevance today.00:34:31 - Mike Myers' Comedy InfluenceReflection on Mike Myers' impact on comedy and his unique style.00:39:05 - Tribute to FamilyInsight into the personal connection Mike Myers had with the film.00:41:19 - Cultural Differences in HumorDiscussion on the differences between British and American humor.00:43:25 - Casting ChoicesExploration of casting decisions and their impact on the film.00:45:28 - Production TriviaFun facts about the film's production and behind-the-scenes details.00:48:16 - Product PlacementDiscussion on the use of product placement in the film.00:49:24 - Legacy of Austin PowersReflection on the film's legacy and potential for a sequel.

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• Bluey Review: Deep Dive

  In this episode of the Wicked Indulgence podcast, we dive deep into the beloved children's show, Bluey, exploring its impact on both kids and parents alike. Joined by my co-host Kevin, we reminisce about our own childhood television experiences, contrasting them with the rich content available to today's children.We kick off the conversation by sharing our early favorites, from Sesame Street to the occasionally terrifying Barney. Kevin expresses his disdain for Barney, while I reveal that my family was a Barney household, often watching it alongside Sesame Street. We also touch on our nostalgic VHS favorites, like The Brave Little Toaster and Home Alone, before transitioning to the present and discussing how our kids are spoiled with quality programming like Bluey.As we delve into Bluey, we highlight its unique blend of humor and emotional depth, emphasizing how it serves as both entertainment and a tool for emotional education. We discuss the Heeler family—Bandit, Chilli, Bluey, and Bingo—and how their relatable dynamics resonate with our own family experiences. With our kids being close in age, we find parallels in the sibling relationships depicted in the show, particularly the balance of competition and cooperation.Throughout the episode, we explore various themes presented in Bluey, such as parenting dynamics, imaginative play, and the importance of emotional intelligence. We appreciate how the show portrays Bandit as an involved father who navigates the challenges of parenting with humor and love, contrasting it with the often stereotypical portrayals of fathers in other media.We also share our favorite episodes, including "Sticky Gecko," which humorously captures the chaos of getting kids out the door, and "Edamame," which teaches valuable lessons about choice and autonomy. Kevin's favorite episode, "Unicorse," showcases Bandit's playful spirit and the importance of conflict resolution within the family.As we wrap up, we reflect on how Bluey not only entertains children but also provides a comforting and therapeutic experience for parents, allowing us to connect with our inner child. We encourage listeners, whether they have kids or not, to give Bluey a chance, as it offers valuable insights into family life and emotional well-being.Join us for this heartfelt discussion as we celebrate the magic of Bluey and its ability to heal and entertain across generations.00:00:00 - Nostalgic TV ShowsDiscussion about favorite childhood shows, including Sesame Street and Barney.00:01:40 - VHS FavoritesMention of favorite movies like Home Alone and Overboard, and the impact of parental choices on viewing.00:03:02 - Modern Kids' ShowsComparison of current children's programming, highlighting Bluey as a standout.00:04:33 - Bluey's Emotional DepthExploration of Bluey's themes of emotional education and its appeal to both kids and adults.00:06:16 - Introduction to BlueyOverview of the podcast and the focus on why Bluey resonates with everyone.00:06:42 - Character DynamicsDiscussion on the Heeler family and the relatable sibling relationship between Bluey and Bingo.00:09:15 - Parenting DynamicsInsights into Bandit and Chili's parenting styles and their relatability to the hosts' family.00:10:59 - Imaginative PlayReflection on the importance of imaginative play and the challenges of engaging in it as a parent.00:12:40 - Childhood ExperiencesComparison of childhood play experiences and the impact of sibling dynamics.00:16:02 - Parenting ChallengesDiscussion on the complexities of parenting and the show's portrayal of different family dynamics.00:19:00 - Healing Through BlueyHow Bluey addresses emotional healing and resonates with parents.00:19:49 - Episode HighlightsIntroduction to specific episodes that showcase the show's strengths.00:20:05 - Attention to DetailAppreciation for the show's writing and animation quality.00:22:21 - Cultural RepresentationDiscussion on how Bluey incorporates Australian culture and sports.00:27:28 - Bandit's Parenting StyleExploration of Bandit's character as an involved and humorous father.00:30:06 - Fatherhood RepresentationComparison of Bandit to traditional portrayals of fathers in sitcoms.00:32:04 - Conflict ResolutionAnalysis of an episode that showcases Bandit and Chili's approach to parenting conflicts.00:34:35 - Recommended EpisodesSuggestions for episodes to start with, including Sticky Gecko and Edamame.00:39:03 - Pass the Parcel EpisodeOverview of the Pass the Parcel episode and its themes of losing and parenting.

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• Valentines Day The Movie: Review

  In this episode of the Wicked Indulgence podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of Valentine's Day, exploring its traditions, popular gifts, and the cultural significance behind them. I, Jessica, along with my co-host Kevin, kick off the conversation with some surprising statistics about the holiday, including the staggering number of roses grown for the occasion—over 250 million! Kevin shares his hot take on roses, likening them to diamonds in terms of their perceived value, while I introduce the most popular Valentine's gift: chocolate. We discuss the history of heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, dating back to 1861, and the staggering amount of chocolate consumed during this time.As we transition into the topic of Valentine's Day-themed candies, we reminisce about the chalky conversation hearts that originated as medical lozenges. This leads us to a nostalgic discussion about our childhood experiences with candy and the peculiar tastes of certain sweets, like Necco Wafers.The episode then shifts focus to the 2010 romantic comedy film "Valentine's Day." We compare it to "Love Actually," arguing that "Valentine's Day" is a more cohesive and enjoyable film with a star-studded cast, including Jamie Foxx, Jessica Biel, and Julia Roberts. We appreciate how the film intertwines multiple storylines, each representing different aspects of love, from long-term relationships to the awkwardness of teenage romance.Throughout our discussion, we critique the film's portrayal of relationships, noting the unrealistic connections between characters in Los Angeles and the lack of traffic on Valentine's Day—a glaring oversight in a city known for its congestion. We also touch on the film's themes of infidelity and the various stages of love, highlighting the importance of communication and honesty in relationships.As we delve deeper into the film, we explore the dynamics of a two-week relationship depicted in the movie, discussing what constitutes an appropriate way to celebrate Valentine's Day early in a relationship. We emphasize the importance of personalizing the experience based on the partner's interests rather than adhering to traditional expectations.In a particularly engaging segment, we analyze the character of Anne Hathaway, who works as an adult phone entertainer. We discuss the implications of her job on her budding relationship with Topher Grace's character and how he reacts upon discovering her profession. Kevin and I reflect on the importance of approaching such sensitive topics with curiosity and understanding rather than judgment.Overall, this episode is a blend of humor, nostalgia, and insightful commentary on love, relationships, and the cultural phenomena surrounding Valentine's Day. We hope our listeners enjoy this exploration of both the holiday and the film, and we encourage everyone to celebrate love in their own unique ways, regardless of their relationship status.00:00:00 - Valentine's Day FactsDid you know that over 250 million roses are grown in preparation for Valentine's Day?00:01:00 - Chocolate vs. RosesThe most popular gift for Valentine's Day is chocolate, not roses.00:01:45 - Conversation Hearts HistoryThe origin of conversation hearts and their transformation from medical lozenges to candy.00:02:30 - Nostalgic Candy MemoriesDiscussion about Necco Wafers and personal anecdotes related to them.00:04:10 - Introduction to Valentine's Day MovieTransitioning from Valentine's Day traditions to discussing the movie "Valentine's Day."00:05:20 - Movie OverviewOverview of the film "Valentine's Day" and its ensemble cast.00:06:00 - Comparing Rom-ComsComparison of "Valentine's Day" to "Love Actually" and its themes.00:07:00 - Los Angeles RealismDiscussion on the unrealistic connections between characters in the film set in Los Angeles.00:08:30 - Character ConnectionsSpeculation on the writers' backgrounds influencing character connections in the film.00:09:30 - Rom-Com RatingRating the film "Valentine's Day" as a rom-com and discussing its entertainment value.00:10:30 - Cast HighlightsHighlighting the star-studded cast and their performances in the film.00:12:00 - Romantic ExpectationsDiscussion on romantic expectations and the portrayal of relationships in the film.00:15:00 - Themes of LoveExploration of various love themes presented in the movie.00:20:00 - Valentine's Day Gift IdeasAdvice on appropriate Valentine's Day gifts for new relationships.00:24:00 - Handling Unorthodox JobsDiscussion on how to approach a relationship when discovering a partner's unconventional job.00:30:00 - Curiosity Over JudgmentThe importance of curiosity and understanding in relationships rather than jumping to conclusions.00:50:00 - Final Thoughts on RelationshipsConcluding thoughts on navigating relationships and the importance of communication.

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  1:27:06
• Hulu “Vacation Friends”: Full Movie Review

  In this episode of the Wicked Indulgence Podcast, we dive into the chaotic world of weddings and the absurdity of the film "Vacation Friends." As your host, Jessica, I share my disdain for weddings, expressing that I would be perfectly content never attending another one again. My co-host, Kevin, and I reminisce about the weddings we've attended, noting that most have ended in divorce, which only adds to our skepticism about the institution.We discuss the film "Vacation Friends," which we chose as a light-hearted break from our ongoing exploration of the ACOTAR series. However, we quickly realize that the movie, while intended to be a comedy, is filled with stressful wedding-related shenanigans that leave us questioning the importance of the events unfolding on screen.The film features a cast that seems to have been written for the likes of The Rock and Kevin Hart, but instead stars Lil Rel Howery and John Cena. We analyze the characters, particularly focusing on Howery's portrayal of Marcus, who is depicted as a whiny and insecure fiancé trying to impress his future in-laws. The film's premise revolves around Marcus and his girlfriend, Emily, who go to Mexico for a vacation where Marcus plans to propose. However, their plans go awry when they meet a wild couple, played by Cena and his on-screen wife, Kyla.As the story unfolds, we witness a series of ridiculous events, including a disastrous proposal, a boat crash, and a psychedelic mushroom trip that fails to deliver on its promise of hilarity. We critique the film's pacing and the bizarre character dynamics, particularly the awkward relationship between Marcus and Emily's family, who look down on him for being a construction business owner.The episode takes a turn as we discuss the film's climax, where misunderstandings and chaotic revelations lead to a series of comedic yet cringeworthy moments at the wedding. We express our frustration with the characters' inability to stand up for themselves and the lack of depth in the storyline, ultimately concluding that the film could have been much better if it had embraced its absurdity more fully.Join us as we dissect the highs and lows of "Vacation Friends," share our thoughts on wedding culture, and revel in the guilty pleasure of a film that, despite its flaws, provides a wild ride through the chaos of love and friendship.00:00:00 - Weddings: A Necessary Evil?Discussion on the hosts' disdain for weddings and personal experiences.00:01:00 - The Stress of Wedding MoviesReflections on the stress induced by wedding-themed films and the movie chosen for the week.00:03:00 - Introduction to Vacation FriendsOverview of the movie "Vacation Friends" and its guilty pleasure status.00:04:00 - Drug Smuggling ShenanigansDiscussion about a character's humorous method of smuggling drugs.00:05:30 - The Cast and Its EnergyAnalysis of the casting choices and the energy of the film compared to expected actors.00:06:30 - Character IntroductionsIntroduction of the main characters and their backgrounds.00:08:00 - The Proposal Gone WrongDetails about the disastrous proposal attempt in Mexico.00:10:00 - Unexpected HospitalityThe couple's unexpected invitation to stay with strangers after their suite is ruined.00:11:30 - Character DynamicsDiscussion on the character dynamics and the main character's annoying traits.00:13:00 - Wild Vacation AdventuresOverview of the chaotic vacation experiences, including boat mishaps and cliff jumping.00:15:00 - The Shift in ToneTransition from fun vacation antics to wedding planning drama.00:16:30 - Family Dynamics and Class IssuesExploration of family tensions and class differences during wedding preparations.00:20:00 - Awkward Family InteractionsDetails about awkward interactions with the bride's family and their perceptions of Marcus.00:22:30 - The Brother's JealousyDiscussion on the brother's antagonistic behavior towards Marcus.00:24:00 - The Wedding Weekend ChaosOverview of the chaotic events leading up to the wedding.00:27:00 - The Equestrian ExperienceDescription of the bizarre equestrian event and its comedic elements.00:30:00 - Golf Tournament ShenanigansDetails about the golf tournament and the betting antics.00:35:00 - The Drug Trip SceneAnalysis of the psychedelic experience and its lackluster execution.00:40:00 - The Rehearsal Dinner DisasterOverview of the rehearsal dinner and the chaotic announcements made.00:47:00 - Confrontations and RevelationsFinal confrontations and revelations about relationships and friendships.

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