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As Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle opened to massive box office and critical fan reaction, fans wondered whether this could break into the Oscars. But the reality is far simpler—and far less dramatic. The Academy was never going to nominate a movie that functions as a direct, late‑series continuation of an ongoing storyline.

In this episode of iCritic LIVE, Kevin unpacks why Infinity Castle, despite its scale, spectacle, and emotional weight, is fundamentally built for viewers already deep into the Demon Slayer narrative. For Oscar voters who expect a film to stand on its own, this kind of continuity‑heavy storytelling is a non‑starter.

🔍 In this episode:

• Why Infinity Castle demands extensive prior knowledge of the series
• How late‑arc storytelling clashes with the Academy’s expectations for standalone films
• Why even groundbreaking animation can’t overcome narrative inaccessibility
• The difference between audience hype and awards‑body practicality
• What an anime film would need to look like to be a true Oscar contender

If you’re curious about how awards voters think—and why certain formats are at a structural disadvantage—this episode breaks down the real, grounded reasons Infinity Castle was never in the Oscar conversation.

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We’re kicking off the new year with a special live episode! 🎉 Join us as we look back on last year’s highlights, talk about what’s next for the podcast, and unveil some exciting updates—yes, including our brand-new website! We’ll chat about upcoming content, community plans, and how you can get involved in shaping what’s ahead.

It’s a casual, interactive hangout to celebrate a fresh start and share our vision for the year ahead. Grab your favorite drink, join the live chat, and let’s ring in the new year together with good vibes, honest conversations, and a few surprises.

Tune in live, get involved, and let’s make this year our best one yet!

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In this explosive episode of iCritic LIVE, we tackle the shocking news: Netflix is set to buy Warner Bros. Discovery. What does this mean for Hollywood, streaming dominance, and the future of movie theaters? Are theaters doomed—or is there still hope for the big screen experience? Join us as we break down the deal, the industry shake-up, and what it means for audiences everywhere.

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Dive into the controversial new documentary God & Country in this episode of Discussing the Donald Trump Documentary Christians Don’t Want You to See. With guest co-host Pat Kahnke, we unpack how faith, politics, and power collide in America, exploring why this film challenges narratives some would rather keep hidden. Expect sharp insights, candid conversation, and a deeper look at the intersection of religion and democracy.

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Draco. Hermione. Abuse as romance. Alchemised didn’t just spark controversy — it invited it. On this episode of iCritic LIVE, we unpack how a toxic ship became a publishing spectacle, why fandom backlash was inevitable, and what it says about the line between fantasy and harm.

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Xbox is making moves—but are they the right ones? In this episode of iCritic LIVE, Kevin breaks down the latest shifts in Microsoft’s gaming strategy, from studio acquisitions and Game Pass evolution to the uncertain fate of physical media and platform exclusivity. It’s not all green lights: we’ll explore the risks, the promises, and why cautious optimism might be the most honest stance right now. Whether you're a lifelong Xbox fan or a skeptical observer, this is the deep dive you didn’t know you needed.

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🎙️ Is Taylor Swift’s fan devotion a heartfelt connection—or a billion-dollar strategy? In this episode, we unpack the calculated brilliance behind Swift’s empire, from surprise drops to merch rollouts, and ask whether her relationship with fans is more transactional than emotional.

💸 Why does every Swiftie era feel like a marketing masterclass?
🎤 How does Taylor balance authenticity with empire-building?
📈 And what does this say about pop stardom in the age of parasocial profit?

Tune in for a sharp, unapologetic look at the business behind the fandom.

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In this episode of iCritic LIVE, we dive into the surprising reversal by Sinclair Broadcast Group, which has decided to bring Jimmy Kimmel back to its affiliate lineup after previously sidelining the late-night host. What changed—and what does this say about the shifting dynamics between content, controversy, and corporate strategy? We unpack the behind-the-scenes pressures that led to the cave-in, explore Kimmel’s enduring appeal, and examine how this move fits into Sinclair’s broader media posture.

But the story doesn’t end there. Nexstar, another major player in the local TV landscape, may not be following suit. We break down why Nexstar’s calculus could be different, what’s at stake for its affiliates, and how this tug-of-war over late-night programming reflects deeper tensions in the broadcast world.

From ratings to reputations, this episode is a sharp look at how media giants navigate public perception, political pressure, and the power of personality. Buckle up—this one’s got teeth.

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If you would like to send me snail mail, please send all (legal) packages to:

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