Episode 94 - Marvel Cinematic Multiverse Predictions

On this episode, Team POPX dives into the possibilities of a Marvel Cinematic Multiverse. With the recent Spider-Man Far From Home trailer launch, and the climatic finale of Avengers Endgame, there are loads of buzz and hype surrounding the future of Marvel on the silver screen. A multiverse could open the flood gates with new characters, sagas and an endless library to draw from. With the acquisition of FOX, Disney now holds the rights to some big names and characters from the golden era of comics. This is one episode that will crammed full of geeky goodness, so grab some popcorn and join the conversation.

Episode 93 - Avengers Endgame Review & More

Join team POPX as we visit the culmination of over 10 years and 22 films into one massive universe, The Marvel Universe. We will discuss easter eggs, favorite moments, and yes, even spoilers, so you've been warned! What does the future of the MCU look like? Tune in to find out.

Avengers Endgame (An MCU Retrospective)

There are those moments in every generation that remind all of us exactly where we were when it all unfolded. For those in the 60's, the hype surrounding Woodstock was the culmination of the impossible becoming reality. People flocked to witness an event that would define a generation, and shape the way we listen to music and congregate even today. In the 70's and 80's, the heart pumping glory of getting tickets to watch George Lucas'  Star Wars saga unravel on the silver screen birthed not only a marketing hype, but redefined how stories are told cinematically.

The driving force behind what's shaped my life today has been the world of comics, and how the stories on each panel spring to life in dramatic and dynamic artwork. In 2008, Marvel Studios Entertainment president Kevin Feige had a vision, something that could not be foretold in just one, or even three films. There are those individuals who are gifted in thinking outside the normal parameters of thought, and cast vision to much grander insights than many of us could dream of. Feige single-handedly formulated a plan that would span some 11 years in the making to truly tell the story of an epic saga across many characters and multiverses. It all started with a man made of iron.

2008 was the year we witnessed Iron Man come to life in a way no one could imagine, and thus began the "end scene credits" that carefully wove together multiple characters and timelines across a vast universe of heroes. Feige's plan was an epic one, and it worked. My generation was able to witness and be a part of something much greater than we could ever dream of. It didn't come in the form of a trilogy, or a series, but 11 years of films, across 22 cinematic releases that painstakingly tied each story line together in a way cinema hasn't witnessed before. A more grand story using heroes we all grew up with in our youths, all on the screen in live action, fighting the forces of evil, and defending the honor and valor of those who cannot. It was radical.

Endgame was such a moment for our generation and time. Similar to the echoed moments in decades past, like the Romans cheering on their favorite gladiators in the Roman Coliseum, to fans cheering for Luke Skywalker in Return of the Jedi, Endgame is such a moment that will be handed down, discussed and circulated for many, many generations to come. Perfectly woven, painstakingly planned, uncanny in execution, the Russo Brothers crafted a system and story that will transcend for generations to come. Endgame is the climactic culmination of the lives of these heroes we've been cheering on for over a decade. In every way, the story is showcased beautifully, filling in the gaps, and closing the loose ends within the greater story.

It's a film that everyone needs to see. But, one cannot see just Endgame to consume the full narrative of how each hero has landed at this exact spot within the story. I've never been touched so deeply, moved to tears, and flooded with emotions like I have seeing the finality of this story. Each character is given justice, and each moment is carefully scripted to give the deepest impact. It's not simply about infinity stones, nor is it about Thanos as a villain. It's how a band of introverts, castaways and outcasts work together for a greater good. The underlying narrative throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe echoes from the original Spider-Man storyline, "With great power, comes great responsibility."

Marvel comics sets a narrative from the aspect of being human. If a god like Thor, a super soldier like Steve Rogers, or a Hulk like Banner stands up for those of us who can't, how does the human drama of that story get portrayed? When Stan Lee changed Timely Comics to Marvel all the way back in 1961, he approached stories from the human perspective, and that's what made these stories so real and believable. Lee introduced the Fantastic Four and Spider-man, but told that narrative from the the lens of man, not of a god or indestructible force like a Superman. How would it unfold if a nerdy teenager like Peter Parker got bitten by a radioactive spider, and woke up the following morning with powers he didn't fully understand or control? And how would that narrative be told when he goes to high school, and faces bullying and situations a teenager would actually experience? That's the narrative that not only Kevin Feige envisioned, but the Russo Brothers were able to execute flawlessly in Avengers Endgame.

It's this moment in time, this weekend and many weekends to come where Marvel is king of storytelling. Endgame is a project of heart and passion, one that came with patience and many hurdles to figure out, but it was executed with a grace that only a true comic book fan could fathom. Let this film be "that moment," for our generation. Where we take our children and family to witness a story unfold unlike we've seen before. This is our greater gathering of enthusiasts who share the same goals and dreams of those 50 years ago. Instead of a cornfield, it's a cinematic screen, in a dim lit theater... that's where the magic and wonder unfolds.

Avengers Endgame is not just a blockbuster, mega billion making behemoth. It's the hype and finality of a greater story 11 years in the making.

Be Better, Be Greater, whatever it takes.
Joseph Burke
(PopXcast Founder)

Episode 91 - Captain Marvel Review & More

It's finally here, Marvel's first film of 2019, and the only film leading up to Avengers End Game next month! Whoa, Avengers is next month!!? YUP! Click like, subscribe, and follow for notifications on when POPX goes live this Sunday night, March 10th, 9PM Eastern. Combined with the leading headlines of the week, Episode 91 will be a #SpoilerAlert show with tons of information, easter eggs and tie-ins to the MCU. Don't Miss It!

Episode 89 - Marvel/Netflix Discussion, Punisher Season 2 and Aquaman Review & More!

Recovering from the Holiday break, POPX makes it's return in 2019 with a very hot topic concerning Marvel's departure from Netflix, and the future of our beloved superheroes from the streaming platform. We offer insight into the future of Marvel's streaming sagas, as well as review Season 2 of The Punisher, a film review of Aquaman, and so much more!

Episode 88 - Spider-Man "Into The Spider-Verse" - A POPX Christmas Special

We review the Marvel animated film "Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse" and also share in the Holiday spirit with some special moments with team POPX. We also share the latest in Geek Culture News with POPX Headlines, and give our reactions to the all new MCU film trailers, including Avengers : End Game. Join us for a fun-filled, eggnog drinking, candy cane munching good time... Join us, SHALL YOU!!!?

Episode 87 - Remembering Stan Lee

On November 12th, 2018, the universe as we know it lost a legend, the great Stan Lee passed away at the age 95. Join us on this very special episode as we give a historical glimpse of his life, legacy and share our own stories of Stan "The Man" Lee. We open up the live stream to allow our amazing viewers to join team POPX during the live recording of this very special "Remembering Stan Lee" episode. #Excelsior

Bill Maher's Scorning Words Towards Stan Lee's Passing & The Comic Community

Bill Maher disrespects Stan Lee’s legacy and questions if comics are desensitizing generations with fanatical ideas. 🤬 I typically refrain from these sort of discussions publicly. It’s not my jam to be political, controversial or on anyone’s agenda bandwagon... BUT... His comments and statements kindles a fire within all of us, as we know his brazen dialogue is a ploy to ruffle feathers, drawing attention to himself, and all on the media hype of Stan Lee's passing. Read the attached article link in this post before proceeding further.

In 50 years, Mr. Maher, we're certain your legacy would appear much different than that of the hope Stan shared... In your same breath, you walk on the back of a legendary human being for no reason, other than to make fun of people who don’t read the same “big boy” literature as you. Shame shame shame. Judging someone is wrong, judging someone who just passed and bashing the efforts of an entire empire because it doesn’t jive with your libertarian agenda... is bigotry. In Maher’s spite-filled rant on his blog site, he said, “Donald Trump would only be voted in as President in a place where comic books are important.” — Just wow...

For a sick kid, who grew up introverted and bullied, comics became the one ray of hope in a young 7 year old’s imagination. Ultimately, I became an artist and graphic designer because of Marvel Comics, mimicking Jack Kirby's craft and the stories Stan Lee wrote. Does that mean I too am a whimsical fantasy driven human being with no moral compass or strive to be productive in society? Careful of wolves in sheep’s clothing, those quick to judge with lack of understanding about a community in which you know absolutely nothing about. Don’t be jealous that the cameo king of comics didn’t just create superheroes, he created an entire universe in just over a decade. "The guy who created Spider-Man and the Hulk has died, and America is in mourning. Deep, deep mourning for a man who inspired millions to, I don’t know, watch a movie, I guess..." Maher wrote.

Lee’s heart for everyone alone became a beacon of light for generations of introverts, bully victims, chronically ill, thinkers, scholars, actors, artists, leaders, writers and professionals... who were deemed “different” by a society and culture we lived in. You’re just another bully in the hallway to me Mr. Maher, and I’ve officially evicted bullies from my destiny. It's so easy to attack someone, when you haven't walk a mile in their shows Mr. Maher. Scale back all the fame, all the fortune, all the hate, trash-talk and verbal skewing, and your empire is a shameful representation of the American dream. To inspire, offer hope and tell stories with a moral compass in mind, that's a grand idea.

Stan Lee wrote about something so profound in 1968, in a weekly column called, “Stan’s Soapbox,” a topic of bigotry, racism and violence. I’ll just let the editorial piece speak for itself. Look below in the comments for this attached article. This was the same year the world saw the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King, Jr, and so Stan responded with heart.

Steps off my own soapbox, picks up a pencil and sketches my next masterpiece.

-Joe

Episode 84 - Venom Film Review & More

Coming up on this episode of POPX, we dive into to all things VENOM! This will be a #SPOILER review of the film, so make sure you see it first before tuning in. We talk all things Tom Hardy, Easter Eggs, references, things that worked, things that didn't and in between. All of this, plus the weekly comic/popculture headlines, so click the "Get Notifications" button to get alerts on the show.

Episode 80 - “Ant-Man and the Wasp” + “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Spoiler Review & More.

Team POPX is back at it this week with a in depth discussion on Marvel's latest addition to the MCU, Ant-Man & The Wasp. We also spend a few moments discussing the new documentary "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" hitting select theaters across America. We dive into the pop culture impact Fred Rogers had on youth then, and even today. Join us for POPX News, in-depth discussions, spoilers, easter eggs and so much more!

Episode 77 - Deadpool 2 Spoiler Review & More

The Merc with the Mouth returns, in all his colorful mouthy glory, as Team POPX braces ourselves for another zany ride with Deadpool. It's sure to be a slippery slope of gelatinous goodness, so join us as we discuss highlights, spoilers, our favorite moments and review the brand new X-men franchise film. Flushable wipes provided upon entry.

Episode 73 - Origin Stories : The Infinity War Saga

Just in time for Marvel's Avengers : Infinity War to hit theaters on April 27th, Team POPX dives into everything you need to know about the saga's comic origins. From Thanos' obsession with Death, to the origins of the infinity gems themselves, this episode will be jammed full of juicy tidbits that you'll need to know before going to watch the film. Save it, share it, spread it, love it!

Episode 65 - Thor Ragnarok Film Review & More

Imprisoned on the other side of the universe, the mighty Thor finds himself in a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against the Hulk, his former ally and fellow Avenger. Thor's quest for survival leads him in a race against time to prevent the all-powerful Hela from destroying his home world and the Asgardian civilization.

Episode 61 - Marvel's The Defenders Review & More

After years of planning and preparation, multiple seasons of character story development between DareDevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist, Marvel's "The Defenders" officially dropped on Netflix Friday August 18th. We've given fans a few weeks to watch the show (8 episodes) and now we're here to review, and discuss the Marvel live streaming franchise. Face front True Believers, Excelsior!

Episode 60 - Spider-man Homecoming Film Review & More #SpoilerAlert

Marvel's third film of 2017 bridges the gap between Sony's Spider-man franchise and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Actor Tom Holland reprises the role as everyone's favorite friendly "Neighborhood Spider-man." Stay tuned for an in-depth analysis and review on the next chapter of the MCU.

Episode 57 - Origin Stories : Adam Warlock & Celestials

This week, on the heels of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 release, we dive deep into two beings mentioned or referred to in the new film. We're talking about Celestials and Adam Warlock. Who are these two beings, are they connected, and will we see them in the MCU in the future? Find all the answers here on episode 57 of PopXcast.

Episode 56 - Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Movie Review & More

That's right folks, it's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, the third Marvel film of the year, and one of this year's superhero blockbusters. Join Team POPX as we jump across the galaxy in an inter-dimensional retelling and breakdown of intergalactic proportions. WE'RE GROOT! #iamgroot

Episode 55 - Netflix and Marvel’s Iron First Review & More

This week, POPX dives into Marvel's new and fifth Netflix series Iron Fist, as we uncover some of the pros and cons from the show. When Danny Rand was 10-years old, he survived a mysterious plane crash that claimed the lives of his extremely wealthy parents. Rescued by warrior monks, Danny grew up in the of city of K'un-Lun, where he endured harsh conditions, but also trained to be a fierce warrior. Years later, Danny returns home to New York, where he wants to reconnect with his past and take his rightful place at his family's company, which is being run by his father's former business partner. Danny hopes to restore his family legacy by defeating the people who threaten it.

Episode 54 - Fifty Shades of the Incredible Hulk

We dive into all things The Incredible Hulk as Team POPX's uncovers over 54 years of the Jade Giant, and the many forms of Hulk throughout Marvel Comics over the years. From Bruce Banner, to Joe Fixit and General Ross, Hulk implores many forms, colors and variations.

Episode 50 - Origin Stories : History of Comics in Pop Culture Part 5 - The Modern Age

In the series finale of the "History of Comics in Pop Culture," Team POPX concludes their 5-part series with a look into the current modern age of comics. From the growth of indie comics, to comics making their way into film and television shows, the current age and pop culture is closely impacted by the influence of comics written in the 80's, 90's and 2000's era of comic book canon. From the rise to of The Walking Dead, to Todd McFarlane's Spawn, to Alan Moore's The Watchmen and Frank Miller's Sin City - film and comics are closely woven together.