Anime Meets Wrestling: Michael Spencer on Demon Slayer & Influence

This week on The Commentary Booth, Jamie Apps and That Movie Guy Harry Argyle step into the cage to break down A24’s hard-hitting new biopic The Smashing Machine, directed by Benny Safdie and starring Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, and Ryan Bader.This episode delivers a deep dive into Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's transformative performance as UFC and Pride legend Mark Kerr, exploring the brutal highs of his fighting career and the devastating lows of his personal struggles with addiction.We dissect the film's raw power, from Emily Blunt's Oscar-worthy supporting role to the visceral fight choreography that captures the lawless early days of MMA. Is this the role that redefines The Rock's career? How does it stack up against other A24 sports classics like The Iron Claw and Uncut Gems? And does it truly capture the infamous brutality of the real "Smashing Machine"?Highlights Breakdown: - The magic of fighting and the euphoria of winning - How addiction, arrogance, and painkillers led to Kerr’s devastating losses - Dwayne Johnson’s career-defining dramatic turn - The Pride Grand Prix prize vs today’s UFC payouts - Why A24’s grounded realism makes this one of the most powerful sports dramas in yearsTune in for a knockout conversation filled with expert analysis, behind-the-scenes trivia, and a passionate look at one of the year's most anticipated films.This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

Scotty doesn’t know, but Jamie Apps and Corrina Mabey certainly do, every Wednesday on The Commentary Booth. This week, the duo goes full backpacker mode as they celebrate EuroTrip (2004).Freshly dumped at his high school graduation, Scotty doesn't know his life is about to get turned upside down. He embarks on an impulsive quest across Europe with his best friends to find his German pen pal, Mieke. From the hallowed halls of the Vatican to the infamous red-light districts of Amsterdam, no misadventure is left unturned.Together, Jamie and Corinna dive deep into the film's iconic moments, from Matt Damon's legendary cameo singing "Scotty Doesn't Know" to the bizarre deleted scenes that were almost too wild for the studio. They discuss the film's surprising production secrets, its all-star cast including Michelle Trachtenberg and Vinnie Jones, and why this spiritual successor to Road Trip stands the test of time as a superior comedy.Highlights Breakdown: - The Infamous Song: The legacy of "Scotty Doesn't Know" and the genius of Matt Damon's cameo. - Deep Dive on the Cast: Remembering Michelle Trachtenberg and appreciating the comedic timing of Jacob Pitts as Cooper. - Production Secrets: How the entire movie was filmed in Prague, and the Anne Frank sex scene that was too controversial to make the final cut. - Cult Classic Status: Analysing why EuroTrip flopped in theatres but became a beloved hit, and why our hosts prefer it over Road Trip. - Cultural Time Capsule: A hilarious look at how the film's "stranger danger" internet themes from 2004 compare to our modern app-based world.With witty banter, sharp nostalgia, and a dash of chaos, this episode is a love letter to the golden age of outrageous teen comedies. Buckle up, it’s not where you parked your car, but it’s definitely going to be a ride.This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

This week on The Commentary Booth, Jamie Apps and Captain Sickness, Corrina Mabey go back to school to dissect the ultra-gory, socially satirical second season of Gen V, the twisted spin-off of The Boys. Picking up after Season 4 of The Boys, America is now under Homelander’s suffocating rule, and Godolkin University faces a terrifying new Dean promising students unprecedented power.They delve into how the show brilliantly and respectfully wove the real-life tragic passing of star Chance Perdomo into its narrative core, creating a powerful emotional throughline. This episode also breaks down the season's perfect blend of teenage angst and outrageous superpowers, its sharp critique of influencer culture and far-right politics, and how it stands as a superior spin-off that seamlessly feeds into The Boys universeHighlights Breakdown: - How Gen V honoured Chance Perdomo within the story - The signature gore: exploding stomachs, tentacle eyes, clown-car pledges - Satire of politics, MAGA culture, and influencer mental health posts - Godolkin University’s sinister new Dean and shocking twists - DogKnot, Bush Master, and the strangest powers yet - Crossovers, MCU parodies, and how it sets up The Boys Season 5Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just Gen V-curious, this review covers every wild, bloody, and satirical turn. Get ready for a deep dive into the dark heart of Godolkin University!This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

This week on The Commentary Booth, hosts Jamie Apps and Corrina Mabey are climbing back into the car for a 1,800-mile trip down memory lane to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Todd Phillips' breakout comedy, Road Trip!Released in 2000, this raucous "road sex comedy" launched the career of the future director of The Hangover and Joker. We're revisiting the misadventures of Josh, E.L., Rubin, and Kyle to see if this early 2000s time capsule holds up. We break down the iconic cast (hello, Seann William Scott and a scene-stealing Tom Green!), the film's surprising legacy, its most cringe-worthy (and hilarious) moments, and the wild futures it predicted for its characters.Highlights Breakdown:Why Road Trip defines early-2000s “guys’ comedy”Barry, the snake subplot, and Tom Green’s unhinged performanceCameos you probably missed (Jimmy Kimmel, Andy Dick, Todd Phillips himself)The most dated elements: VHS tapes, tube TVs, and chunky laptopsHow the framing “storytelling” device makes the whole thing unreliable (and funnier)Awards, Razzie-level acting, and the legacy of raunchy college comediesJamie and Corrina take a nostalgic yet critical look at the film’s legacy, its influence on an entire generation’s sense of humour (and maybe bad behaviour), and why it remains a cult classic despite mixed reviews. They also reflect on how absurd the story feels today in the age of smartphones, streaming, and instant communication.If you grew up on American Pie, EuroTrip, and early 2000s raunchy comedies, this episode is a nostalgic ride packed with laughs, critiques, and trivia gems.This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

Step into The Commentary Booth - Live Via Satellite, for an electrifying chat with Australian wrestling star, Michael Spencer! Host Jamie Apps peels back the curtain on how anime has become the ultimate inspiration for Michael's in-ring persona and iconic gear. From his Dragon Ball Z roots as a Vegeta-inspired powerhouse to his latest, jaw-dropping Demon Slayer cosplay gear, Michael breaks down how he brings his favourite characters to life. Michael shares the secrets behind his creative process, the challenge of weaving anime quotes into promos, and why he does it all for the "five people in the room who get it."Highlights Breakdown: - Michael’s first anime inspirations (Dragon Ball Z, Fullmetal Alchemist) - The transition from fan to wrestler and incorporating anime into his persona - Why Demon Slayer became his favourite gear set yet - Family life, Crunchyroll binges, and sharing anime with his kids - Which anime world he’d choose to survive in (hint: Pokémon fans rejoice) - Upcoming PWA shows, the Beershed & Mounties eventsWhether you’re an anime enthusiast, a pro wrestling fan, or both, this is a high-energy, insightful chat you won’t want to miss.FOLLOW MICHAEL ON SOCIAL MEDIA:- Instagram- X./TwitterThis week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

Buckle up for a high-octane episode of The Commentary Booth. This week, host Jamie Apps is joined by colour commentator Corrina Mabey to peel out and review the new action-thriller Eenie Meanie, streaming now on Disney+ and Hulu.Starring Samara Weaving (not Margot Robbie!), the film follows Edie, a reformed teenage getaway driver dragged back into her unsavoury past to save her chronically unreliable ex-boyfriend. Think Baby Driver meets Bonnie and Clyde with a toxic twist.Jamie and Corrina break down the film's thrilling car chases, surprising emotional depth, and Samara Weaving's fantastic shift from Scream Queen to action hero. They discuss the gritty practicality of the stunts, the hilarious comedy beats (including a scene-stealing Tesla gag), and the film's shocking third-act twist you won't see coming.Highlights Breakdown:The fantastic, practical car chase choreography that outshines modern Fast & FuriousSamara Weaving's stellar performance and her move from horror to dramatic actionThe complex, toxic relationship at the heart of the film and its surprising parallels to the crime boss subplotThe standout comedy moments, including a scene with Marshawn Lynch that had us in stitchesThe surprisingly wholesome ending and why the film's emotional core makes it more than just a heist movie.Is Eenie Meanie a solid streaming gem or just another forgettable car flick?This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

In this gripping episode of The Commentary Booth, host Jamie Apps sits down with writer Sally Gifford and director Timothy David to unpack their emotionally charged film, Kangaroo Island. The story follows a washed-up Hollywood actress (Rebecca Breeds) who returns to her hometown, only to confront buried family secrets, a love triangle, and the painful decision of assisted death. Against the breathtaking yet brutal backdrop of Kangaroo Island, the film explores faith, betrayal, and the fragility of life, with powerhouse performances that linger long after the credits roll.Highlights Breakdown:Behind the Scenes: Discover how the wild, untamed beauty of Kangaroo Island became a central character in the filmThemes & Inspirations: Sally and Tim discuss weaving grief, euthanasia, and gentrification into a deeply human storyStandout Performances: Why Rebecca Breeds’ raw portrayal of Lou is a career-defining roleFaith & Flip-Flops: The filmmakers reveal their intentional twist on religious dynamicsFilming in Australia: Their dream locations for future projects, could a South Australian trilogy be next?Tune in for an intimate conversation about storytelling, cinematic contrasts, and why Kangaroo Island is the Australian drama you won’t forget.This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

Step into the hilariously twisted world of horror parodies as The Commentary Booth returns for another Frightening Flashback! This week, Jamie Apps teams up with Killer Cuts podcast hosts Astrid Pizarro and Bobby Munson to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic horror comedy Scary Movie. Together, they dive into the film that redefined the parody genre, blending the best of late-90s slasher tropes with absurd, laugh-out-loud gags.From scream queens and ghost-faced killers to fart jokes, pop culture parodies, and Dawson’s Creek cameos, the crew dissects what made the original Scary Movie so legendary, and what aged like milk. Plus, they speculate wildly about what we can expect from Scary Movie 6 and which horror hits of today are ripe for ridicule.Highlights Breakdown: - Nostalgic Rewatch Reactions – Does Scary Movie still hold up today, or are the jokes too dated? - Slasher Spoof Genius – Breaking down the film’s iconic parodies of Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and more! - Favourite Scenes & Characters – From Ghostface’s goofy antics to Shorty’s unforgettable one-liners. - Theatre Horror Stories – The hosts share their worst moviegoing experiences (rude phone users, seat fights, and more!) - Scary Movie 6 Predictions – What modern horror films should the Wayans Bros spoof next?Tune in for laughs, nostalgia, and a deep dive into one of the most iconic spoof films ever made!This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

Join Jamie Apps and Corrina Mabey on The Commentary Booth this week as they deep-dive into Alien: Earth, the bold new sci-fi horror series from Fargo creator Noah Hawley.Set two years before Ridley Scott's 1979 classic, this prequel crashes a space vessel into Earth and unleashes the iconic Xenomorphs on our home planet for the first time. But what truly sets Alien: Earth apart isn’t just the horror; it’s the scope of the expanded lore, which provides a rich political backdrop, morally grey technology, and a fresh cast that might just rival Ripley’s legacy.In this spoiler-free review of Episodes 1–6, Jamie and Corrina explore the show's cinematic scale, its clever integration into the Alien timeline, and its morally complex characters (especially a chilling tech-corp twist on Peter Pan).Highlights Breakdown: - First Impressions – Does Alien: Earth live up to the hype? Jamie and Corrina debate its place in the Alien timeline. - Xenomorph Mayhem – The return of practical effects, gnarly new creatures, and brutal violence that rivals the films. - Timeline Deep Dive – Where does this fit in the Alien universe? (Spoiler: It’s before Ripley’s story!) - Hybrid Horror – The shocking introduction of synthetic-human hybrids and their dark origins. - Killer Soundtrack – Why the end-credit songs and eerie opening sequences are a standout feature.With a $250 million budget, visceral practical effects, and horrifying new alien specimens (yes, including an eyeball-octopus), Alien: Earth is more than a prequel. It’s a full-on world-building reinvention.This week’s episode is brought to you by:Australian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram

In this darkly satirical and razor-sharp episode of The Commentary Booth, hosts Jamie Apps and Corrina Mabey return to their Frightening Flashback series with a deep dive into Mary Harron’s cult classic American Psycho, just in time for its 25th anniversary.Starring Christian Bale in one of his most iconic performances, American Psycho follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy New York investment banker by day and a psychopathic killer by night, as he spirals into a world of narcissism, materialism, and murder. Jamie and Corrina dissect the film’s commentary on 1980s capitalism, identity, and toxic masculinity, while examining Bale’s haunting portrayal of Bateman and the film’s legacy in modern cinema.Highlights Breakdown:- Christian Bale’s chilling performance & method preparation- Themes of materialism, identity & delusion in the 80s- Gender & power dynamics through a feminist lens- Most iconic & controversial scenes (chainsaw, business cards!)- Ambiguity of the ending: real or imagined?With plenty of laughs, sharp analysis, and references to Huey Lewis and the News, this episode is a must-listen for film buffs, horror fans, and lovers of satirical cinema. This week’s episode is brought to you byAustralian Wrestling CardsCheck out more great content from Pario Magazine on our website.-------------------------------------------------------------SUPPORT PARIO MAGAZINE & THE COMMENTARY BOOTH- PATREON- BUY MERCH- AMAZON PRIME VIDEO- TUBEBUDDY- Subscribe to AEW Plus using my code (q0yydoz) to earn $10 in FITE credit- Shop Online With Honey- Shop Online With SatechiMY EQUIPMENT- Elgato Facecam- Rode PodMic- Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP- Streamlabs Talk StudioFOLLOW JAMIE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram- TikTokFOLLOW PARIO MAGAZINE ON SOCIAL MEDIA- Twitter- Facebook- Instagram