Heroes Retreat with Noel Cruz

These are my picks for the very best films of the year. Let’s discuss their impact and contributions to cinema in a year where the horror genre was reinvigorated, super heroic and fantastic familiar faces saved the day, an iconic literary and cinematic Monster was retold and a revolutionary who took us on a ride we will never forget. This is a delayed release so please forgive my timing, but let’s...

The first film (of what I hope is many) of the new DC Studios has arrived and it is none other than “Superman” - directed by James Gunn. On this episode, we start at the very beginning of Superman’s cinematic journey leading to the up to the moment we see a new battered and bruised hero ask his devoted pet Krypto: “Home. Krypto, take me home!”. For the first time in the Hero’s rich and deep histor...

We’ve got a HUGE episode this week! We cover not one, but four - count them, 4 reviews in one episode almost 2 hours long! Your boy has been busy playing catch up and he’s done his homework. This week’s episode we will discuss the brilliance of Ryan Coogler’s and Michael B. Jordan’s Vampire Masterpiece - “Sinners” as we see the MCU gain traction with it’s latest, slightly over-hyped “Thunderbolts*...

It’s been a long time coming and I hope this is worth the wait! On this episode of HRWNC we review two of Marvel’s new anticipated shows - the long awaited return of Daredevil to the MCU in “Daredevil: Born Again” and the impeccable new animated series “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man”. We also cover a ton of new info regarding trailers, upcoming films and an appreciation to “Captain America...

With the extreme division and backlash of “Joker: Folie à Deux” - The Penguin takes this opportunity as he always does, to be the crowned the number one villain of Gotham City and does so in quite possibly what may be, one of the absolute best Comic Book themed TV Series any fan can ask for. A seamless continuation of “The Batman” film with Robert Pattinson, this stand out performance of Colin Far...

One of the most highly anticipated movies of 2024. An unexpected sequel to a Masterpiece and now one of the most controversial films in the DC library and possibly all of the superhero genre. Was it worth returning to Arthur Fleck’s world to meet his Harley Quinn? Did Lady Gaga do crazy justice to the iconic character? Hit or miss, love it or hate it - Joker: Folie à Deux is here and we discuss w...

With the 7th entry to the Alien film franchise - this unexpected, brilliant and dedicated addition to the lore of one of the greatest horror/sci fi films ever made is as refreshing as it is horrifying. With a young and committed cast and a storyline that stays true to the formula of its predecessor, I was shook in disbelief of how much I loved this film. The repeated viewings cannot come soon enou...

The much needed shot of adrenaline the MCU so desperately needed has been delivered. This SPOILER FILLED episode touches on the bold decision by Disney to let Deadpool be Deadpool and reinvigorate a long time beloved character - the Wolverine as only Hugh Jackman can play. Jaw dropping cameos, incredible action sequences, fan service that rewards over two decades worth of dedication to these chara...

On this past May the 4th - I rewatched Episode I: The Phantom Menace in theaters and came away with a whole new appreciation, love and admiration for what I feel is one of the most important and significant films in Star Wars history. Let’s go back to the beginning and relive an energy, love and enthusiasm for one of the greatest film franchises ever and one of the most treasured experiences I hol...

Villains. They captivate us, thrill us, frighten us and make our heroes journey worth the watch. They bring forth challenge, chaos, calamity and ultimately - tragedy. On this episode, we look at the top 25 most iconic and admired villains of the superhero genre. Did your choice make the cut? Who got the last laugh? Was the number one spot “Inevitable.” You’ll have to listen and find out. “Wait til...

The moments that stand the test of time. Iconic, bold, definitive. The scenes that define the characters these films are based on. The Heroes and Villains we love and the hate. The moments that leave us talking about them long after we have left the theatre. So big - it takes two parts to do it! Let’s go - it’s time to take on the biggest moments in the comic book cinematic universe!

In this first episode of 2024, we will discuss two films that have created a buzz amongst fans: one that ends the Snyderverse and the other that is the lowest grossing Marvel/MCU movie to date. We will discuss "superhero fatigue" and if Marvel is as fractured as people have been stating or of this is just the ebb and flow of the cinematic universe. We will briefly review "Echo" and the breath of f...

SEASON 4 IS HERE - LET’S GO! HRWNC is back! What was to be a single episode turned in to a 2 parter because it is so big and so fun - we had to go into overtime to get it done! This is my top 25 comic film list. Join me to see if your favorite made the list and where it ranked. See if my selections are worthy of their spots and where I placed them in their positions. Do you agree, disagree? You’ll...

World’s collide across the multiverse as two of the summer’s biggest films open for their respective brands: DC’s the Flash and Marvel’s Across the Spider-verse. Join me as I discuss these two entries - one that concludes the Zack Snyderverse of DC and the other that show’s why you can never have too much Spider-Man. What’s up danger?! Let’s sit back and see where the multiverse takes us and where...

I’ve been away for over 3 months, I am caffeinated and we have a bunch o’ stuff to cover! You get not one but three (count ‘em) THREE reviews on this episode: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Shazam 2: Fury of the Gods and John Wick: Chapter 4. Lots to discuss, lots to catch up on, so press play and lets get going with my first episode of 2023! 🥳🍾

As massive changes are now in play at DC Studios and Henry Cavill’s time in the red cape has concluded - we return to the film that made him a household name and discuss his contribution to the legacy of the Man of Steel and where the DC Universe is headed under the leadership of none other than Mr. Guardians of the Galaxy himself - James Gunn! You don’t want to miss this one!

“Yibambe! Yibambe! WAKANDA FOREVER!” The long awaited sequel to 2018’s “Black Panther” starring the late, brilliant and beautiful Chadwick Boseman is here! How do you continue the story of a major superhero who’s real life passing effects the story of a beloved and iconic character? With love, patience, an outstanding cast, deep dedication to the material and a profound respect to the man who brou...

A surprising, charming, witty and smart introduction to the Hulk’s cousin - Lawyer by day and superhero when ever she wants - Jennifer Walters aka She-Hulk! Listen to my review and more as I touch on the reactions of the “Black Adam” film, big changes in the DC Studio leadership, casting of a Marvel Character by a legendary actor and so much more. Take a listen and let’s talk Superheroes!

With the recent Warner/Discovery merger - David Zaslav (CEO of Warner Discovery) has aggressively demonstrated his commitment to what he wants - the DC Cinematic Universe to get it done right and mirror the success of what Disney has done with the MCU. Regrettably, the practically completed “Batgirl” film was the first causality of this brave, new, controversial move. Where does the rest of the DC...

The God of Thunder returns for his 4th installment and 8th appearance in the MCU. With Christian Bale as “Gorr The God Butcher” and Natalie Portman as “The Mighty Thor” rounding out the cast for this adventure as we see Thor in this new cinematic endeavor and where it takes the character as we move into Phase 5 of the MCU. We also take a moment to discuss the events of the San Diego Comic-Con and...

Let’s take a look at the brilliant and inspired 6 episode arc of one of the greatest Jedi’s in the history of the Star Wars Universe masterfully played by Ewan McGregor and the return of none other than Darth Vader with Hayden Christensen rightfully owning this portrayal the 2nd time round. Let’s talk Star Wars - I’m all about it!

I’ve been gone along time watching and enjoying shows and films to get back on the show and talk about events that have transpired in the past 2 month and more! Here I will review and discuss “Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness” “He-Man: Revelations Part II” “Book of Boba Fett” and upcoming shows like Obi-Wan, Ms. Marvel, Season 3 of The Boys, Thor: Love and Thunder and the current drama...

For the 10th time, with the 6th actor under the cowl - we are re-introduced to arguably DC’s greatest Superhero with Robert Pattinson under the cape and cowl as “The Batman”. Join me as I offer my take on this iteration of the first of three films by Director Matt Reeves. This is the Darkest Knight I’ve ever seen and I have a lot to say about my favorite Hero. To the Batmobile - LET’S GO!

The first episode of Season 3 and I am excited to finally review what is in my opinion - one of the most important MCU films to date: “Eternals”. Join me as I share why this MCU film isn’t one of the most action packed entries - and is all the better and entertaining for it. Let’s talk Eternals and all the stuff we are going to enjoy in 2022! See you there.

**SPOILER FILLED REVIEW** The friendly neighborhood Spider-Man returns in the final film of his trilogy in what is expected to be one of the MCU’s game changing events. Join me as I review one of the most anticipated films of 2021 and one that will forever change the Spider-verse as we know it. See you there!