Aaron and Brash look back on the films that defined 2025.

From blockbuster standouts to emotionally resonant genre films, they present the Fandom Awards for Best Movie, Best Hero, and Best Villain of 2025, exploring why these choices mattered on a personal and cultural level. Along the way, the conversation reflects on how cinema continues to evolve, why character driven storytelling still matters most, and how films can help us better understand ourselves and the world around us.

As they look ahead to 2026, Aaron and Brash invite listeners to reflect on their own favourites.

Timestamps and Topics

00:00 Reflecting on 2025 as a defining year in film
02:33 The Fandom Awards begin: Best Movies of 2025
05:17 Friendship, identity, and emotional storytelling
07:32 Nostalgia, legacy franchises, and modern expectations
08:38 Cultural reflection through K Pop and global storytelling
11:01 Horror’s evolution and emotional depth
13:54 The Bone Temple and mythic storytelling
15:22 Coming of age in post apocalyptic worlds
17:45 Reframing heroism through Superman
20:21 Avatar and technology in service of story
24:21 Code Three and grounded heroism
28:56 Del Toro’s Frankenstein and the cost of humanity
32:33 The complexity of modern heroes
34:17 Empathy, leadership, and responsibility
38:17 Villains and why they resonate
45:50 Fandom Awards recap
46:13 Looking ahead to 2026 and community updates

Key Takeaways

• Story and character leave a deeper impact than technical spectacle
• Films act as mirrors for cultural tension and personal struggle
• Rewatching movies can unlock new meaning and insight
• Heroes resonate most when they are flawed and human
• Villains matter because they reflect fears, not just threats
• Cinema remains a powerful tool for reflection and connection

Why This Episode Matters

This episode reframes awards as reflection rather than ranking. It reminds listeners that the films that matter most are not always the loudest, but the ones that say something honest about who we are and what we value.

Keywords

Film Podcast, Movie Analysis, Pop Culture, Storytelling, Character Studies, Film Awards, Movie Discussion, Personal Growth, Heroes and Villains, Cinema Reflection, Film Themes, Fandom Culture, Modern Movies, Movie Lessons, Cultural Commentary

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
Threads: threads.net/@fandomportals
Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

Discord: https://discord.gg/7Q4TAmSP

Aaron discusses the value of the film 'SpongeBob: The Search for SquarePants,' highlighting its production quality, core messages about courage and vulnerability, and its overall tone and fun factor.

He emphasizes the film's ability to entertain both children and adults, its strong production team, and the important lessons it imparts about emotional honesty and healthy expressions of masculinity.

Takeaways
SpongeBob the Search for SquarePants is worth your time.
True bravery comes from facing fear with honesty.
The production team is reliable across generations.
The film rewards honesty, vulnerability, and connection.
SpongeBob's courage looks weaker but is more resilient.
Joy and meaning are not opposites.
SpongeBob teaches healthy expressions of courage.
The humor doesn't undermine the message.
SpongeBob is known for being silly, quotable, and warm.
This movie is definitely worth your time.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to SpongeBob's Value
05:10 The Production Team Behind the Magic
11:47 Core Messages of Courage and Vulnerability
16:28 The Tone and Fun Factor of SpongeBob

Keywords
SpongeBob, Search for SquarePants, film review, animation, courage, vulnerability, production team, family film, core messages, fun factor

More SpongeBob The Search for SquarePants:
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdPt8QWTypI

Other SpongeBob Films:
SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run, Blu Ray
https://amzn.to/3LjOEYh
SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, Blu Ray
https://amzn.to/3YSvjAF

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
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Summary
Aaron and Brasher discuss the 1996 Christmas film 'Jingle All the Way,' exploring its themes of consumerism, parenting, and the emotional dynamics between characters. They analyze the satirical elements of the film, particularly how it critiques the commercialization of Christmas and the pressures faced by parents. The conversation delves into the character of Howard Langstrom, his relationship with his son, and the often-overlooked role of the mother. Aaron and Brasher emphasize the importance of time spent with children over material gifts, and reflect on how the film's messages resonate in today's society.

Takeaways
Consistent presence is more important than grand gestures.
The film critiques consumerism during the holiday season.
Howard Langstrom represents the struggle of modern parenting.
The mother’s emotional labor is often overlooked in the film.
Satire is used to highlight societal issues around Christmas.
Character dynamics reflect common tropes in family films.
Consumer guilt is weaponized during the holiday season.
The film's humor contrasts with its serious themes.
Time spent with children is more valuable than material gifts.
The film's ending lacks character growth and resolution.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jingle All the Way
01:29 Film Synopsis and Themes
04:11 Satire and Consumerism in Christmas Movies
06:29 Character Dynamics and 90s Tropes
09:56 Parenting and Presence vs. Materialism
13:50 Modern Relevance of Jingle All the Way
17:35 Consumer Guilt and Marketing Tactics
22:26 Cultural Commentary on Christmas Consumerism
28:23 Quality Over Quantity in Parenting
30:46 The Emotional Labor of Parenting
32:32 Male Role Models and Redemption
34:21 The Performative Nature of Fatherhood
37:17 Casting Choices and Audience Alignment
39:58 The Dark Humor of Parenting
46:39 Lessons Unlearned in Holiday Films

Keywords
Jingle All the Way, Christmas movie, parenting, consumerism, satire, Arnold Schwarzenegger, family dynamics, holiday films, emotional connection, marketing tactics

Get the Movie and Support the Podcast here:
Jingle All the Way Blu Ray DVD
https://amzn.to/4p9GLme

https://amzn.to/4qofP3d

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

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Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

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Summary
In this episode of the Fandom Portals podcast, hosts Aaron and Adam delve into the 1997 film Batman and Robin, exploring its themes of emotional connections, failure, and the complexities of love and control. They discuss the character dynamics between Batman, Robin, and Alfred, highlighting how trauma and attachment styles impact their relationships. The conversation also touches on the film's campy nature, its commercialization, and the controversial design choices of the bat suits. Community reactions are shared, culminating in a discussion about the film's legacy and its place in the Batman franchise.

Theme Arc: Failure Isn't Final

Takeaways
Emotional distance is often mistaken for discipline.
Batman and Robin explores the theme of failure in film.
The film's campy nature detracts from its serious themes.
Love can be a motivator that gives strength meaning.
Bruce Wayne's emotional stunting affects his relationships.
Alfred serves as a healthy model of connection and love.
Mr. Freeze's obsession illustrates unhealthy love dynamics.
Robin's rebellion reflects a desire for autonomy.
The film's commercialization impacted its narrative quality.
Community reactions highlight the film's mixed legacy.

Chapters
00:00 Exploring Emotional Distance and Connection
05:31 The Lessons from Batman and Robin
10:16 Bruce Wayne's Emotional Struggles
16:31 The Dynamics of Batman and Robin
26:26 The Future of Batman and Robin in Cinema
26:59 The Future of Batman and Robin
31:04 Exploring Mr. Freeze's Character Arc
35:28 Alfred: The Heart of the Batman
51:22 The Film's Reception and Legacy
52:08 The Hype and Reception of Batman Movies
52:54 Tonal Shifts in Batman Films
54:21 Marketing and Merchandise Influence
56:29 The Controversial Bat Suits
01:00:15 Community Perspectives on Batman and Robin
01:03:24 Final Ratings and Reflections
01:07:52 Gratitudes and Closing Thoughts

Keywords
Batman and Robin, emotional connections, film analysis, failure in film, character dynamics, love and control, Alfred, Mr. Freeze, Robin, nostalgia

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
Threads: threads.net/@fandomportals
Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

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Summary
Aaron and Brash explore the themes of Disney's Treasure Planet, focusing on how past wounds can affect new relationships, the significance of kindness, and the complexities of masculinity as represented by John Silver. They discuss the film's unique animation style, the impact of its release timing, and the importance of trusting relationships in emotional growth. The conversation also highlights the role of Jim's mother and the transformative power of connection in overcoming personal challenges.

Theme Arc: Failure Isn't Final

Takeaways
Old wounds can affect new relationships.
Treasure Planet teaches about kindness and support.
Animation styles blend 2D and 3D effectively.
Timing and competition impacted the film's success.
John Silver represents complex masculinity.
Fatherhood themes are explored through Jim and Silver.
Connection can heal past traumas.
Jim's mother plays a crucial role in his development.
Trusting relationships are vital for growth.
Kindness can transform lives.

Chapters
00:00 Exploring Old Wounds and New Relationships
05:05 The Impact of Animation Styles
08:42 Pirates in Space: A Unique Blend
13:33 The Flop of Treasure Planet
18:48 The Role of John Silver
23:19 Character Depth: Long John Silver
29:12 Masculinity and Vulnerability in Treasure Planet
34:09 Father Figures and Emotional Connections
39:42 The Impact of Trust and Relationships
50:37 Lessons in Parenting and Emotional Availability
51:43 Exploring Jim and Silver's Goodbye Scene
53:03 The Significance of Departures and Attachments
55:42 Metaphors of Connection and Choice
58:26 Character Growth and Transformation
01:01:33 The Complexity of Silver's Character
01:08:09 Final Thoughts and Ratings
01:09:56 Gratitude and Reflections

Keywords
Treasure Planet, Disney, animation, fatherhood, masculinity, relationships, emotional growth, John Silver, Jim Hawkins, film analysis

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
Threads: threads.net/@fandomportals
Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

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Summary
Aaron and Brasher delve into the 2006 film 'Eragon', exploring themes of inner potential, mentorship, and the challenges of adapting beloved books into films. They discuss the film's shortcomings, particularly in character development and pacing, while drawing parallels to classic narratives like Star Wars. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trust and relationships in personal growth, and how even disappointing adaptations can offer valuable lessons. The hosts focus on the mentorship between Eragon and Brom, and the bond between Eragon and his dragon, Sephirah. They discuss the importance of trust, emotional vulnerability, and the potential future of the Inheritance series, particularly in light of the upcoming Disney Plus adaptation.

Theme Arc: Failure Isn't Final

Takeaways
Discovering your inner potential isn't a solitary act.
Trust and mentorship are crucial in personal growth.
The adaptation of Eragon failed to capture the book's depth.
Character relationships were poorly developed in the film.
The film's pacing and dialogue were major flaws.
The magic system in the movie lacked consistency.
The film's budget did not translate to quality.
Eragon's journey mirrors classic hero's journeys.
Brom serves as a crucial mentor, bridging Eragon's doubts and destiny.
Mentorship is about mutual growth and potential realization.
Brom's grumpy demeanor hides a deeper care for Eragon.
The film lacks depth in the bonding moments between characters.
Sephirah acts as Eragon's psychological mirror, reflecting his growth.
Trust and emotional vulnerability are key to their relationship.
The future of the Inheritance series looks promising with a Disney Plus adaptation.
Adaptations should honor the source material for authenticity.

Chapters
00:00 Discovering Inner Potential
06:26 The Disappointment of Adaptation
12:41 Character Relationships and Development
20:20 The Flaws of the Film
26:13 Comparing to Star Wars
33:34 The Hero's Journey
42:09 Lessons from Aragon's Journey
42:58 Character Development and Transformation
45:11 Mentorship Dynamics: Aragon and Brom
51:49 The Bond Between Aragon and Sephirah
56:15 The Importance of Trust and Emotional Vulnerability
01:08:10 Future of the Inheritance Series and Adaptations

Keywords
Eragon, inner potential, film adaptation, character development, hero's journey, fantasy, mentorship, trust, courage, disappointment, Brom, Sephirah, mentorship, character development, emotional vulnerability, Inheritance

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

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Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

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Summary
Aaron and Brash explore the themes of leadership and integrity through the lens of the film John Carter. They discuss the film's failure at the box office, community insights, and the visual spectacle it offers. The conversation delves into character dynamics, the role of female representation, and the overarching influence of the Therns in the narrative. Ultimately, the hosts reflect on the lessons learned from failure and the importance of empowerment in leadership.

Theme Arc: Failure Isn't Final - What can we learn from the films that flopped at the Box Office?

Takeaways

• True leadership is rooted in integrity, not dominance.
• Failure can teach valuable lessons about ourselves.
• Community insights reveal mixed feelings about John Carter.
• Visual spectacle enhances the storytelling experience.
• Historical context adds depth to the narrative.
• Marketing missteps contributed to the film's failure.
• Character dynamics reveal deeper themes of power.
• Empowerment is a key aspect of effective leadership.
• Female representation in film is crucial for storytelling.
• The Therns represent a larger commentary on control and power.

Keywords
John Carter, leadership, integrity, failure, film analysis, community insights, character dynamics, visual effects, marketing, empowerment

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
Threads: threads.net/@fandomportals
Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/fandomportals

Discord: https://discord.gg/7Q4TAmSP

Summary
In this celebratory episode of the Fandom Portals podcast, hosts Aaron and Brash reflect on their journey through 50 episodes, expressing gratitude to their community and discussing the evolution of their podcasting themes. They explore the emotional connections that films create, the importance of vulnerability in storytelling, and the lessons learned from films that they've explored so far. The episode also features community questions and insights, as well as a look ahead to future episodes and themes.

Takeaways
This episode is a celebration of our community.
We love getting compliments, we really do.
It's been a big journey, brash. It's been a big journey.
A lot of podcasts don't get to 50 at all.
It's important that you do it on something that you love.
Movies can be a perfect medium for that.
It's okay to talk with a friend.
Good enough is good enough.
Keep learning, keep growing, keep loving film.
The podcast has evolved to focus on personal growth through film.

Chapters
00:00 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Milestone Reflection
02:23 Community Engagement: Gratitude and Growth
05:13 Podcast Evolution: From Fandoms to Film
06:21 The Power of Film: Emotional Connections and Personal Growth
08:08 Adaptations: The Journey from Page to Screen
10:48 Exploring Vulnerability: The Role of Movies in Emotional Release
13:33 Lessons from Failure: Embracing Critical Flops
16:33 Surprising Discoveries: Movies That Changed Our Perspectives
23:12 Rating Movies: The Five-Star System
25:27 Exploring Unexpected Movie Gems
27:27 Surprises in Movie Ratings
29:07 Character Growth in Film
30:54 Revisiting Past Ratings
32:43 Audience Questions: Personal Growth and Mindset
40:54 Embracing Different Perspectives
42:11 The Power of Shared Experiences
43:53 Finding Joy in Shared Interests
45:48 Emotional Connections in Media
47:56 Balancing Passion and Workflow in Podcasting
50:40 Community Engagement and Listener Interaction
52:00 Celebrating Milestones and Guest Contributions
57:51 Looking Ahead: Future Themes and Episodes

Keywords
podcast, film, personal growth, community, fandoms, movie analysis, emotional connection, storytelling, lessons learned, podcasting journey

Contact Us:
Website: https://www.fandomportalspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPortals

Instagram: instagram.com/fandomportals/?locale=en
Threads: threads.net/@fandomportals
Email: fandomportals@gmail.com
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