Altered Geek ®

Latest Episodes:

The Impact of Streaming and Binge-Watching Culture May 08, 2020

Show notes

We examine how streaming services are becoming the preferred way to consume content, ranging from revisiting classic television to discovering new originals. We share our thoughts on the shift from theatrical releases to home viewing, triggered by recent industry changes. Plus, we discuss our personal experiences with binge-watching, the quality of remote-produced shows, and navigating the vast libraries available on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.

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Entertainment Industry After COVID-19 Apr 24, 2020

Show notes

Steve Megatron and guests explore how the pandemic reshaped entertainment across multiple sectors: movie theaters facing closures and reimagining distribution, streaming services gaining ground, video game shortages and delays, RPG publishers struggling with supply chain disruptions, convention cancellations, and the critical need for broadband infrastructure. They also discuss unexpected winners including digital platforms, online sex work innovations in streaming technology, and how remote work is accelerating the shift to digital-first business models.

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Pandemic Tech, Transformers Nostalgia, and Retro Gaming Apr 10, 2020

Show notes

The hosts discuss life during the 2020 lockdown, including reactions to government stimulus, church services, and the viral 'potato' Zoom filter. They pivot to geek culture news, covering the successful Kickstarter for Legend of the White Dragon, the FIFA corruption scandal, and the PlayStation SNES prototype. The episode concludes with memories of the Transformers franchise, the recent Bots and Brackets tournament, and criticisms of the Energon series.

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The Future of Movie Theaters and Streaming Apr 03, 2020

Show notes

Steve and Mike discuss the impact of the pandemic on the cinema experience and the shift toward streaming services. They weigh the benefits of theater-going against the convenience of watching films at home, specifically addressing the rise of premium on-demand rental models and the changing habits of modern audiences. The conversation explores the potential for theaters to focus on nostalgia and special events in the future.

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Diamond Distributors, Reboots, and Marvel's Modernization Problem Mar 27, 2020

Show notes

Steve and Mike examine how COVID-19's impact on Diamond Comic Distributors is rippling through the comic book industry and local shops. They discuss the cycle of constant universe reboots at Marvel and DC, Marvel's controversial attempts to modernize characters through woke storytelling (including the poorly-received New Warriors reboot with characters named Snowflake and Safe Space), and the broader challenge facing publishers: chasing trends and pandering versus writing genuinely good stories with strong character development. The conversation also touches on quality vs. quantity in content creation across multiple media.

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Coronavirus Updates and Favorite Films Roundup Mar 06, 2020

Show notes

The hosts discuss the impact of the coronavirus on global events and public health, followed by a wide-ranging conversation about their favorite films. They share personal picks including 1917, Rocketman, Aliens, Starship Troopers, and Grandma's Boy, exploring why these movies resonate with them. The group also debates the merits of the Harry Potter, Police Academy, and National Treasure franchises.

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Disney Leadership, Podcast Industry, and Voice Acting Feb 28, 2020

Show notes

The discussion covers the recent Disney CEO transition and the state of Disney+ content. The episode also critiques elitism in podcast production, the cost of conventions, and the reliance on professional radio equipment. Finally, experiences in a voiceover masterclass are shared, including tips for aspiring voice actors and personal stories about performing multiple character roles in audio dramas.

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Favorite Fictional Characters and Batman Casting Feb 21, 2020

Show notes

The hosts discuss the fictional characters that shaped their personal fandoms, exploring the impact of Mass Effect, RoboCop, Doctor Who, and more. The conversation then shifts to the upcoming Batman casting, discussing Robert Pattinson's career trajectory and hopes for a detective-focused film.

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Most Anticipated Movies of 2020 Jan 17, 2020

Show notes

The hosts break down the major films slated for a 2020 release. They discuss their expectations for titles including The Grudge, Birds of Prey, Bloodshot, A Quiet Place Part II, Wonder Woman 1984, Top Gun: Maverick, and The Eternals. The conversation touches on trailer reactions, production concerns, and the changing landscape of mid-budget cinema.

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The Mandalorian Season 1 Review Jan 10, 2020

Show notes

A deep dive into the first season of The Mandalorian, analyzing its production values, practical effects, and narrative pacing. The discussion covers the show's integration of Star Wars lore, the impact of key cast members like Giancarlo Esposito and Carl Weathers, and the series' influence on the broader franchise. The conversation also touches on character development, the influence of the 'Lone Wolf and Cub' trope, and theories for future seasons.

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