EVA: The Entertainment Variance Authority

About EVA: The Entertainment Variance Authority

Join Nakware Howard and Jonathan McNamara, two proud nerds with a love for entertainment, as they wield their time sticks to judge the fate of content in the nerd universe. Each month, The Entertainment Variance Authority (EVA) dives into a piece of media—be it a blockbuster film, binge-worthy series, or anticipated game. Expect sharp critiques, fiery debates, and hilarious takes as they dissect storytelling, execution, and cultural impact. Will it earn a place among the greats or be pruned like an alternate timeline? Tune in to find out! Curious to see if your favorite made the cut?

Publisher

Nakware Howard & Jonathan McNamara

Category

tv & film

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

13 Jul 2025

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Bonus: Marvel Tokon, the PlayStation Blackout & the Definitive French Fry Rankings

   Welcome to the EVA Bonus Pod, where the main case may be closed, but the agents still have opinions and apparently some of them require unplugging an entire video game console. Fresh off the Spider-Man: Brand New Day investigation, Agent Nakware and Agent J-Mac stick around for a post-credits-style conversation about video games, corporate shenanigans, homemade fight sticks, and the one subject guaranteed to destroy even the strongest friendship: french fries. First, J-Mac has discovered Marvel Tokon, and saying he's "into it" might be underselling the situation. The game has already convinced him to walk back into a comic shop, buy multiple copies of the first issue, and start planning a custom-built fight stick covered in Marvel artwork all so he can look incredible while getting absolutely demolished by 12-year-olds online. From there, the agents get into: 🎮 Marvel Tokon, why J-Mac hasn't been this excited about a fighting game since Street Fighter IV, his custom team, and the surprisingly elaborate comic-book storytelling built into the game's campaign. 🪵 The completely reasonable decision to manufacture a custom fight stick out of wood, acrylic, imported Japanese buttons, and chopped-up comic books. 🐺 Wolverine, why a level-based structure might actually make more sense for Logan than an open world, and the collection of mutants and villains already getting the agents excited. 🔌 The PlayStation Blackout, the fight over physical media, and why J-Mac has unplugged his PlayStation despite being hopelessly addicted to the game he just spent the first part of the episode praising. 💿 Why eliminating traditional physical games isn't just a problem for collectors and how losing competition, secondhand sales, lending, discounts, and actual ownership could change the economics of gaming for everyone. And after all that righteous indignation, the EVA turns its attention toward a controversy of even greater consequence. French fries. Food Corner makes its triumphant return as Agent Nakware and Agent J-Mac attempt to establish the definitive hierarchy of fry construction. Shoestring. Curly. Waffle. Wedges. Steak fries. Crinkle-cut. Home fries. Friendships are tested. Home fries are accused of not actually being fries. Waffle fries are slandered. Crinkle-cut enthusiasts are openly called heathens. And somehow, against all odds, a definitive EVA ranking emerges from the wreckage. So unplug your PlayStation, grab the nearest plate of fries, and prepare to argue with at least one of these rankings. The main episode may be over. The foolishness is just getting started.

2. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Spider-Man: Brand New Day Review — Jean Grey, Man-Spider & Government Ninjas?!

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where superheroes face judgment, continuity is always under investigation, and not even Spider-Man is safe from a good pruning. This week, the EVA swings back into the MCU for a full spoiler-filled investigation of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Agent Nakware and Agent J-Mac crack open the case file on Tom Holland's latest adventure to answer the question that really matters: Did Marvel finally get Spider-Man and maybe the MCU back on track? Peter Parker is older, more experienced, and more alone than ever. Everyone he loves has forgotten he exists, he's traded high-school shenanigans for street-level crime fighting, and his social life mostly consists of police contacts and Frank Castle. But when a mysterious young telepath collides with Peter's increasingly complicated world, Brand New Day starts pulling at threads that could reshape the future of the entire MCU. And yes, we're talking about Jean Grey. Along the way, the agents investigate: 🕷️ Whether this more mature, grounded Peter Parker is the best version of Tom Holland's Spider-Man yet and whether the movie finally escapes the "Iron Lad" criticism. 💔 Peter's heartbreaking attempts to reconnect with MJ and Ned, including one absolutely brutal conversation that proves No Way Home still has consequences. 💀 Why Jon Bernthal's Punisher and Tom Holland's Spider-Man might be one of Marvel's best pairings. 🧠 Sadie Sink's introduction as Jean Grey, how Brand New Day quietly lays the groundwork for the X-Men, and why giving an emotionally overwhelmed young mutant terrifying amounts of power might be exactly the setup Marvel needed. 🧬 The Man-Spider storyline, Peter's increasingly unstable mutation, and whether the movie actually commits to the idea or throws one comic book ingredient too many into an already crowded pot. 🥷 The baffling treatment of The Hand, including the most important unanswered question in the MCU: Do the ninjas have individual government email addresses, or is there just one big Hand distribution list? 💚 The return of a more savage Hulk, the mysterious limits of Peter's new inhibitor technology, and whether the Hulk might remember something about Peter Parker that Bruce Banner doesn't. 🎲 The great Ned debate: Did Peter's best friend actually remember him, figure out that he's Spider-Man, or are Marvel fans about to spend the next few years arguing about a handshake? By the end, the agents arrive at a surprisingly decisive verdict. So grab your variant badge, fire up the web shooters, and prepare for arguments about mutants, friendship, ninjas, post-credit scenes, and exactly how many times Jon Bernthal can almost say the thing without actually saying the thing. The EVA has reached its verdict.

3. 

   19 Aug 2026

   BONUS: Trading Cards, Video Game Magic & Why Growing Up Hit Different.

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, after putting Gundam on trial, Agents Nakware and J-Mac accidentally stumble into something far more dangerous: nostalgia. What begins as a conversation about rare anime magazines quickly spirals into an unexpectedly heartfelt debate about the childhood experiences that shaped an entire generation of nerds. Trading card shops. Comic book grab bags. Pokémon. Yu-Gi-Oh. Split-screen gaming. The thrill of discovering a hobby before algorithms told you what to like. Somewhere along the way, the EVA asks an uncomfortable question: Did growing up change... or did entertainment? The agents investigate: 🎮 Why modern video games feel technically better, but somehow less magical. 🕹️ Whether online multiplayer accidentally killed the joy of couch co-op. 📚 The excitement of comic shops, Hobby Japan magazines, and hunting for treasures before everything was one click away. 🏀 The sports cards, Pokémon cards, and collectibles that disappeared somewhere between childhood and adulthood. 🎨 Why physical hobbies, from comics to Gunpla to collecting, still scratch an itch digital entertainment can't quite replace. 🚿 And yes... an unexpectedly passionate defense of PowerWash Simulator, complete with Star Wars DLC, Final Fantasy VII, Adventure Time, and the surprisingly satisfying act of pressure-washing the Death Star. Along the way, the agents reminisce about marathon gaming sessions with friends, the impossible leap from the Nintendo 64 to modern consoles, and whether today's AAA games have become more impressive than they are genuinely fun. If you've ever walked into a comic shop, spent your allowance on trading cards, stayed up until 2 a.m. playing split-screen with your friends, or wondered why those memories still hit so hard... this conversation might feel like coming home. The Sacred Timeline may keep moving forward... ...but sometimes it's worth looking back.

4. 

   7 Aug 2026

   Dope-Ass Sky Robots: Gundam explained and why fans never leave.

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where every fandom gets its day in court and only the worthy survive the Sacred Timeline. This week, the EVA takes a hard left into one of entertainment's biggest and most misunderstood franchises. Agent J-Mac is unleashed on a mission to answer one deceptively simple question: Why should anyone care about Gundam? Agent Nakware serves as judge, jury, and relentless cross-examiner as they put nearly 50 years of giant robots, war stories, model kits, anime history, and sci-fi philosophy on trial. Can Gundam really stand shoulder-to-shoulder with cultural giants like Star Wars? Is it just "dope-ass sky robots," or is there something much deeper hiding beneath the armor plating? And why has a franchise built on anti-war storytelling become one of the most influential entertainment properties in history? Along the way, the agents investigate: 🤖 Why Gundam completely changed anime by turning giant robots into grounded war machines instead of Saturday morning superheroes. ⚔️ The surprising similarities and massive differences between Gundam and Star Wars. 🛠️ How Gunpla (Gundam model kits) evolved from simple toys into a worldwide creative hobby with competitive builders, custom designs, and museum-worthy craftsmanship. 🎮 Why Gundam has quietly influenced decades of video games, anime, toys, and pop culture without getting the mainstream recognition it deserves. 📺 Where newcomers should actually start, from Gundam 00 and Gundam Wing to the legendary Universal Century timeline. ✨ The mystery of Newtypes, why giant robots are only half the story, and how Gundam mixes military drama with surprisingly philosophical science fiction. By the end, one thing becomes clear: Gundam isn't just another anime franchise, it's a sprawling universe of unforgettable characters, impossible machines, heartbreaking stories, and enough entry points to hook just about anyone willing to give it a chance. So grab your variant badge, dust off your nippers, and prepare for an unauthorized dive into one of entertainment's greatest rabbit holes. The EVA has reached its verdict.

5. 

   15 Jun 2026

   Fatality Draft: Building the Perfect Mortal Kombat Tournament Team

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where this timeline eventually leads to one question: Who would win in Mortal Kombat? Fresh off their review of Mortal Kombat 2, Agents Nakware and J-Mac step into the arena for a special bonus episode that answers absolutely nothing about cinema, but settles a far more important debate. If Earthrealm's fate depended on a Mortal Kombat draft, who would build the superior team? Using five categories:Martial Arts Champion, Ninja Assassin, Sorcerer, Monster, and God the agents assemble their dream rosters from across Mortal Kombat history and prepare for an all-out tournament of questionable logic and excessive violence. The draft board includes fan favorites like Scorpion, Reptile, Kung Lao, Nightwolf, Shang Tsung, Kronika, Goro, Motaro, Fire God Liu Kang, and one completely unfair wildcard that threatens to break the entire competition. Yes. Kratos somehow found his way into the tournament. Along the way, the EVA debates: 🔥 Whether Scorpion is actually the best ninja in Mortal Kombat 🦎 Why Reptile might be the most underrated assassin in the franchise 🌀 If Kronika's time manipulation is secretly the strongest power in Mortal Kombat lore 💪 Whether Goro or Motaro wins the ultimate monster showdown ⚔️ Why Kung Lao never gets the respect he deserves 🎮 And how J-Mac once again managed to draft Kratos into a conversation where he probably shouldn't exist There are deep cuts from classic games, nostalgia-fueled arguments about Mortal Kombat cartoons, passionate defenses of forgotten characters, and more than one moment where the agents realize they may have accidentally created a completely broken tournament bracket. By the end, the teams are locked, the arena is set, and only one question remains: Which roster survives the tournament? So sharpen your blades, charge your special meter, and prepare your fatality inputs. The draft is complete. The challenge has been issued. And somebody is definitely getting finished.

6. 

   9 Jun 2026

   EVA Verdict: Mortal Kombat 2, Flawless Victory or Fatal Mistake?

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where every adaptation must answer a single question: Does it deserve a spot on the Sacred Timeline? This week, Agents Nakware and J-Mac enter the arena to investigate Mortal Kombat 2, the latest attempt to transform one of gaming’s most iconic fighting franchises into cinematic glory. The mission: determine whether Mortal Kombat 2 earns a place on the Sacred Timeline as one of the greatest video game movies ever made or whether it belongs in the Netherrealm alongside failed adaptations and forgotten reboots. From the moment Johnny Cage (played by Karl Urban) stumbles into the tournament to the final clash with Shao Kahn, the agents break down everything that worked, everything that surprised them, and why this sequel may have accomplished what the 2021 film only promised. Along the way, the EVA investigates: ⚔️ Whether Mortal Kombat 2 is the new gold standard for video game adaptation movies 🎮 How faithfully the film recreates classic Mortal Kombat gameplay, fatalities, characters, and arenas 🐉 Why Liu Kang, Kitana, Scorpion, Noob Saibot, Johnny Cage, and Kano steal the show 💀 The best fatalities, Easter eggs, hidden references, and fan-service moments 🔥 Why modern blockbuster films should be paying closer attention to fight choreography 🏆 Whether Mortal Kombat (1995) has officially been dethroned as the king of video game movies The agents also dive deep into the franchise’s sprawling lore, debate the handling of fan-favorite characters, celebrate the return of classic Mortal Kombat stages, and discuss how the sequel managed to fix nearly every major complaint fans had about the first reboot. There are passionate defenses of absurd video game logic, appreciation for ridiculous finishing moves, arguments about the future of the franchise, and one surprisingly serious discussion about whether Raiden has ever been adapted correctly in any Mortal Kombat movie. Plus, the post-credits briefing opens a larger investigation into the future of nostalgia-driven action films, including expectations for Street Fighter, Masters of the Universe, and why Mortal Kombat 2 may have just raised the bar for every upcoming adaptation. By the end, the agents reach a verdict that may shock longtime fans. So sharpen your blades, charge your arcana, and prepare for battle. The tournament has begun, the verdict is filed, and the timeline is already spilling blood. Flawless Victory.

7. 

   30 Mar 2026

   EVA Draft: White Characters who SHOULD be Black.

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline isn’t just about what exists — it’s about what should have existed all along. In this special mini-pod, Agents Nakware and J-Mac step into the multiversal writers’ room for one of their wildest thought experiments yet: drafting teams of iconic white characters who, by all rights, should’ve been Black from the jump. Tasked by EVA leadership with assembling the ultimate super-team inspired by Black History Month, the agents go full variant mode as they debate who gets rewritten into canon and why. The result is part fantasy draft, part pop-culture roast, and part deeply unserious cultural analysis that somehow still makes way too much sense. No franchise is safe and no character escapes scrutiny. Along the way, the agents make the case for which heroes, villains, gods, and magic users have always had Black energy… even if Hollywood and comic-book history never caught up. Of course, it wouldn’t be EVA without the extra chaos: 🦸 Why Professor X might be one of the blackest-coded leaders in fiction. ⚡ Whether Cyclops was always destined to carry civil-rights metaphor on his back. 👑 And all the wildly different flavors of Black excellence the timeline has to offer. There’s also a hilarious side quest into dream casting, with names like Giancarlo Esposito, Idris Elba, Jay Ellis, and more getting thrown into the EVA casting chamber. By the end, the agents walk away with two fully assembled variant squads, a handful of elite casting choices, and one big question for the timeline: which team actually wins? So grab your variant badge, report to the draft room, and prepare for a level of nerd discourse that is equal parts hilarious, chaotic, and weirdly convincing. Tune in now… because once the EVA files the casting, canon may never recover.

8. 

   27 Mar 2026

   EVA Throwback: The Meteor Man (1993) — History, Impact, and Why It Still Matters.

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline isn’t just about billion-dollar franchises — sometimes it’s built on cult classics, cultural milestones, and a whole lot of 90s chaos. This week, TVA leadership drops a directive straight from the archives: Agents Nakware and J-Mac must revisit a foundational (and wildly unconventional) superhero entry — The Meteor Man. Released in 1993 and powered by the creative vision of Robert Townsend, this film lands at the intersection of superhero origin story, community parable, and full-blown time capsule. But does its historic significance as the first Black-led superhero films secure its place on the Sacred Timeline… or do its campy execution, chaotic structure, and aggressively 90s sensibilities put it at risk of being pruned? From the jump, the agents break down everything: a mild-mannered teacher turned hero by a glowing meteor, a city overrun by the absurdly effective Golden Lords, and a power set so stacked it feels like someone checked every box on the superhero starter pack (yes, including book-speed-learning and weather control). Along the way, they uncover a film that’s less about powers — and more about people. Inside this TVA hearing: 🌆 Why The Meteor Man is as much about community resilience as it is about superheroics 🎭 How a legendary ensemble cast — including Don Cheadle, Sinbad, and James Earl Jones — elevates (and occasionally derails) the experience 🦸 The case for Meteor Man as both the most generic AND most human superhero ever put on screen 🐅 A deeply important investigation into why a gang needed a tiger… but only sometimes 📼 The unmistakable DNA of 90s filmmaking — vignette storytelling, wild tonal swings, and messages that hit harder than the plot cohesion ⚖️ And the complicated legacy questions surrounding cultural impact, representation, and problematic figures tied to the film. There’s also a full breakdown of the climactic “meteor fight” (including a surprise kung-fu download and an all-time great mid-battle runway showdown), a passionate defense of community-first storytelling, and a realization that maybe — just maybe — the real superpower was accountability all along. By the end, the agents reach a verdict that balances nostalgia, historical weight, and honest critique. Because sometimes the Sacred Timeline isn’t about perfection — it’s about significance. So dust off the VHS, grab your variant badge, and step into a version of superhero cinema that walked so others could fly. Tune in now… because once the TVA files the verdict, even the Meteor Man can’t rewrite history.

9. 

   22 Feb 2026

   The Fate of 2026 TV & Video Games: What Makes the Sacred Timeline? | EVA Podcast

   Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline doesn’t stop at the box office — it stretches across streaming queues and controller batteries too. This week, EVA leadership has issued a new directive: Agents Nakware and J-Mac must turn their predictive powers toward television and video games in 2026. Which releases deserve canon status? Which ones are headed straight for pruning and which ones might not even survive development long enough to face judgment? From capes and pirates to survival horror and open-world chaos, the agents break down the year ahead including Daredevil: Born Again Season 2, the live-action return of One Piece, the final ride for The Boys, and honorable mentions like Lanterns, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and Wonder Man. On the gaming side, the EVA case files are stacked with heavy hitters from survival horror hopeful Resident Evil Requiem to globe-trotting adventure Tomb Raider, spy thriller 007 First Light, and Marvel’s ambitious projects Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra and Marvel’s Wolverine. And yes, the agents also wrestle with the cultural juggernaut that is Grand Theft Auto VI. Along the way, the TVA debates: 🎮 Whether modern AAA games still remember they’re supposed to be fun first. 📺 If Marvel can recapture the gritty magic of its street-level storytelling. 🏴☠️ Why pirate adventures, devil fruits, and found family might be TV’s safest bet. 🧟 How survival horror reclaimed its throne after years of action bloat. 📉 And the uncomfortable reality that industry layoffs may decide what gets released before audiences ever do. There’s also a passionate defense of ridiculous video-game mechanics, a surprisingly deep dive into anime adaptation success, and at least one existential monologue about whether Rockstar makes masterpieces… or forgets it’s making games at all. By the end, the agents reach a cautious verdict: 2026 could be a huge year for games, a swing year for television, and a reminder that sometimes the Sacred Timeline isn’t decided by quality — it’s decided by whether something actually ships. So grab your variant badge, charge your controller, and clear your watchlist. The EVA has logged its predictions and the timeline is already branching. Tune in now… because once the verdict is filed, there’s no respawn.

10. 

    20 Feb 2026

    The Fate of 2026 Movies: What Makes the Sacred Timeline? | EVA Podcast

    Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline doesn’t wait for release dates — it demands predictions. And this week, TVA leadership has issued a new directive: Agents Nakware and J-Mac must gaze into the chaotic multiversal fog of 2026 and decide which upcoming blockbusters are destined for canon… and which are headed straight for pruning. From galaxy-spanning epics to tournament fighters and franchise Hail Marys, the agents dig into the year ahead including Avengers: Doomsday, Dune: Messiah, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Mandalorian & Grogu, Supergirl, Masters of the Universe, Mortal Kombat 2, Street Fighter, and the next animated chaos engine from The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Some verdicts come easy. Others spark heated TVA hearings. And at least one agent spirals into a deeply scientific theory about whether the quality of Star Wars projects correlates directly with the number of cool spaceship dogfights. Along the way, the TVA debates: 🎬 Whether Marvel can still be trusted to juggle multiversal stakes without collapsing under its own lore 🦸 Why James Gunn might be DC’s best hope — and why the Super-family still makes one agent nervous 🎮 Why leaning into absurdity could save Street Fighter but doom Mortal Kombat 👶 Whether too many villains can sink a Spider-Man story before it even swings into theaters 📉 And the growing TVA concern that studios are chasing financial timelines instead of narrative ones There’s also a passionate plea for movies to stop explaining things that don’t need explaining, a surprisingly heartfelt defense of tournament-arc storytelling, and a reminder that sometimes the difference between Sacred Timeline and pruning comes down to one simple question: Did they go hard enough? By the end, the agents land on a split decision year — one where a few franchises feel poised for redemption, others feel dangerously overstuffed, and at least one cinematic universe may be approaching its final iteration whether it admits it or not. So grab your variant badge, check the release calendar, and join us as we predict the fate of 2026’s biggest swings — before the timeline locks in. Tune in now… because once the TVA files the verdict, there’s no post-credit appeal.

11. 

    18 Feb 2026

    The 2025 Entertainment Roundup | Final Rankings and Reactions

    Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline isn’t just for new releases — it’s for accountability. And this week, TVA management has opened an internal review: Agents Nakware and J-Mac must revisit their 2025 rulings and determine whether their judgments still hold… or whether they accidentally let a few timeline anomalies slip through. From superhero swings to kart-racing chaos, we reopen the case files on last year’s biggest reviews — including Thunderbolts, Superman, Daredevil: Born Again, Captain America: Brave New World, Fantastic Four, Eyes of Wakanda, and even the lone gaming entry, Mario Kart World. Some rankings shift. Some hot takes harden. And at least one agent undergoes a spiritual awakening after witnessing the depths of Venom: The Last Dance. Along the way, we debate: 🎬 Whether Thunderbolts truly earned its crown as the TVA’s top 2025 entry 🦸♂️ Why one agent believes the least interesting character in Superman… might be Superman 🎮 Mario Kart’s eternal power as both party game and friendship destroyer 📉 Whether Daredevil’s brilliance survives its pacing sins and plot chaos 📊 And the emerging TVA doctrine: should pruning be based on math… or just vibes? But as always, the timeline doesn’t stay tidy for long. We spiral into philosophical TVA policy debates, the dangers of arguing on Facebook, the economics of food delivery fees, and a surprisingly intense discussion about what foods actually survive the journey to your front door. (Spoiler: dumplings thrive. Fries do not.) There’s also love for Austin favorites like Via 313 and Nervous Charlie's, proving that sometimes the Sacred Timeline is just good pizza, solid bagels, and fewer platform fees. By the end, the agents agree on one thing: their 2025 reviews weren’t wrong… but the bar for survival in the TVA might need to rise. Because in 2026, “fine” may no longer be enough to escape pruning. So clock in, grab your variant badge, and join us as we audit the past, argue about vibes, and decide which pieces of pop culture truly deserve to exist. Tune in now — before the TVA recalibrates the timeline.

12. 

    7 Feb 2026

    Mario Kart World: Lil Dumpy Enters the Sacred Timeline

    Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where the Sacred Timeline just expanded to include banana peels, blue shells, and one extremely powerful cow in a legally distinct Tonka truck. This week, the TVA hands Agents Nakware and J-Mac a brand-new assignment: video games are now under review, and their first case file is Mario Kart World, Nintendo’s flagship chaos engine and the launch title for the Switch 2. No pressure. Don’t muck it up. We break down why Mario Kart remains one of the most deceptively elite franchises in gaming history—easy enough for literal children, deep enough for absolute sickos who know how to drift, grind rails, and ruin friendships in under three laps. From Knockout Tour’s survival-race insanity to the ambitious (and slightly undercooked) open-world free roam, we dig into what works, what almost works, and what might need a future DLC patch from the TVA. Along the way: 🎮 Mario Kart as a Top-Tier Cultural Artifact: Is it a Top 3 game of all time, or are we just drunk on nostalgia and red shells? 🐄 Character Judgment Court: Yes, we are absolutely judging you based on who you main. Cow mains, explain yourselves. 🌍 Open World vs. Grand Prix: Cool idea or glorified joyride with no real incentives? 🚀 Switch 2 Launch Pressure: Is Mario Kart World enough to carry Nintendo’s new hardware out of the gate? 🔊 Soundtrack, visuals, vibes: Big-band energy, gorgeous tracks, and the timeless joy of yelling at your friends. We also veer wildly (as is tradition) into: Nerd News detours (Zelda Musou truthers, Nintendo scarcity tactics, and the future of consoles), Timeline pruning rants about meta TV shows eating themselves and electric Hummers having an identity crisis, And a post-credit scene that somehow turns into an all-out burger war, because of course it does. In the end, we decide whether Mario Kart World earns its place on the Sacred Timeline—or if it gets spun out by a perfectly timed blue shell. So buckle up, draft behind a rival, and ask yourself the real question: Is Mario Kart World peak Nintendo… or just another lap around Rainbow Road? Tune in now before the TVA starts throwing shells.

13. 

    10 Dec 2025

    Wakanda’s Isolation Era: Was Killmonger right?

    Welcome back to the Entertainment Variance Authority, where we review comic content one branched timeline at a time. Today, we’re diving deep into Marvel’s animated anthology, “Eyes of Wakanda”, a series that somehow manages to be gorgeous, brutal, and peak-Wakandan-isolationist all at once. We kick things off with the usual timeline shenanigans, including Nakware and J-Mac comparing their t-shirts (don’t worry, at least one of them repped Wakanda, poorly, but still). From there, we descend into a spirited debate about why Wakanda refuses to text the rest of the world back, even when vibranium is literally spilling into other countries. Wakanda’s Eternal Isolation Era: We break down the Eyes of Wakanda timeline and question whether this nation has ever heard of “group chats” or “basic diplomacy.” War Dogs, Mission Chaos & Beautiful Animation: We praise the anthology format for giving the War Dogs their flowers while also acknowledging that half of them probably need therapy, HR oversight, and maybe a vacation. The animation? Absolutely stunning. The missions? Absolutely unhinged. MCU Homework Fatigue (Again): We get real about Marvel’s ongoing “you must watch 40 hours of content to understand this 20-minute story” problem. Cultural Themes & Violence With Purpose: We discuss Wakanda’s moral contradictions—especially the whole “protect our secrets at all costs even if the cost is everything” vibe. Humor, Chemistry & ‘Did That War Dog Really Just—?!’ Moments: We recount the action, heart, and at least one scene that had both of us shouting at the screen like two variants losing their TVA badges. Speculation Corner (Because We Can't Help Ourselves): We connect the dots to Black Panther 3, future Wakanda stories, and potential vibranium-related chaos that could shake the sacred timeline. In the end, we loved exploring the layered world of “Eyes of Wakanda,” from its breathtaking animation to its deeper political tension and yes—its relentless isolationism. We debate its lore, laugh at its wild mission scenarios, and try to decide whether Wakanda’s secrecy is noble, exhausting, or both. Curious how Eyes of Wakanda reshapes the MCU, expands Wakanda’s mythos, and reminds us that this nation still refuses to share the Wi-Fi password?  Tune in now to see whether Eyes of Wakanda gets pruned…or if it earns a permanent spot on the Sacred Timeline.

14. 

    17 Oct 2025

    Does marvel hate women and other revelations from The Fantastic Four

    Welcome back to another episode of the Entertainment Variance Authority, where we discuss the latest in film, TV, and video games related to comics. Today, we’re diving deep into the Fantastic Four’s latest cinematic adventure, “Fantastic Four: First Steps.” Grab your pruning shears because some timelines might not make it out alive! Our hosts, Jonathan and Nakware, are joined by a special guest, Danielle, who’s ready to unleash her thoughts on Marvel’s latest attempt at revamping its cinematic universe. Together, they navigate the heavy waters of character development, plot holes, and the portrayal of complex themes like motherhood and heroism. Key Points Discussed: Plot Challenges: Jonathan leads the discussion on the film’s narrative mishaps, questioning the clarity and justification of the plot's central conflict. Character Breakdown: Danielle passionately critiques the portrayal of one of the film's central characters, highlighting the movie’s (and MCU’s) failure to craft multi-faceted characters. The team examines how the movie's writing may have missed capturing the depth of its female characters. Cinematic Execution: While the cast’s chemistry and the film’s visual style receive praise, there’s a call for better integration of character arcs and plot motives. The aesthetic choices, like the retro-futuristic world, are appreciated, but do they distract from deeper issues? Post-Credit Speculations: The hosts speculate on the future of the Fantastic Four within the MCU, pondering whether this movie sets the stage for a larger narrative or if it needs a complete reboot. Ultimately, the film features some standout performances and visual flair, but our hosts thoughts on the storyline and complex themes the movie addresses. What will be our final consensus?

15. 

    19 Sept 2025

    Quailman is just white Stefan Urkel and other revelations from Superman

    Welcome to another episode of the Entertainment Variance Authority, where we dive into the latest buzz in the comic book world of film, TV, and video games. Today, we're peeling back the layers on the newly revamped Superman in James Gunn's DC Universe. Is this the fresh start the DCU needs, or just another notch in Superman's red cape? We kick off with some light-hearted banter between Nakware and J-Mac, setting the stage for an episode that deftly balances humor with thoughtful critique. Originally focused on Superman's return to the big screen, we also explore broader themes in the superhero realm, highlighting the nuances and complexities of this iconic character's portrayal. Key Points Discussed: DCU's Fresh Take: Diving into the films effectiveness as a DCU relaunch vehicle and discuss whether Superman's portrayal hits the mark or misses the cape. Does this film signal a new era for DC? Lex Luthor's Ambition: Delve into the psyche of Lex Luthor and his relentless quest to outsmart Superman. Is his obsession a strength or a tragic flaw? Justice Gang Spotlight: Meet the new team members like Mr. Terrific, Hawk Girl, and Guy Gardner. We discuss how these characters add depth to the DCU and what their future might hold. Visual & Audio Aesthetics: Explore the film's vintage-modern vibe, from its costumes to its soundtrack. How do these elements enhance the storytelling? Superman vs. Superman: We dissect the film's climax, discussing whether the emotional and physical showdown delivers the expected punch or falls flat. Post-Credit Scene: How do you take your coffee? And is it with the same ungodly amount of sugar as Lois Lane? In the end, we relish exploring Superman's new chapter and its impact on the DCU. We navigate the film's themes of morality, identity, and legacy, while questioning what this means for the future of the franchise. What were your thoughts on Superman's latest film? Share your thoughts with us on social media. Subscribe to the podcast for more deep dives into your favorite films and shows!

16. 

    13 Jul 2025

    'Thunderbolts* The New Avengers' Review | The Entertainment Variance Authority

    Welcome to another episode of the Entertainment Variance Authority, where we review the latest film, TV, and video games related to comics. Today, we’re untangling the chaotic threads of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s latest entry, “Thunderbolts,” or should I say, “The New Avengers?” Yes, Marvel seems to have pulled a switcheroo on us with the movie's title, much to our chagrin. 🎭 We begin with a sartorial showdown—Nakware and J-Mac discuss their choice of t-shirts, setting the tone for a discussion that swings between light-hearted banter and serious critique. The initial plan was to dissect “Thunderbolts,” but as it turns out, we're also discussing the new Avengers ensemble, illustrating the messiness of Marvel’s marketing strategy. 🌀 Key Points Discussed: Marvel’s Release Delays: We are relieved that “Avengers Doomsday” and “Avengers Secret Wars” have been delayed, hoping this will allow for quality improvements. The importance of pacing in movie releases is underscored by our excitement for a potential earlier Spider-Man movie release. 🕷️ Tom Holland’s Star Power: The conversation shifts to Tom Holland’s thriving career and his relationship dynamics with Zendaya, highlighting the importance of recognizing individual achievements in partnerships. 🌟 Marvel’s Homework Problem: We critique the MCU’s trend of requiring audiences to consume an ever-expanding library of material to fully appreciate each new entry. There’s a call for standalone experiences that don’t require extensive backstory knowledge. 📚 Character Dynamics in Thunderbolts: We praise the film for its nuanced portrayal of anti-heroes dealing with depression and personal demons, offering a refreshing take on the superhero genre. The discussion delves into how these flawed characters resonate with the current cultural climate. 🌪️ Humor and Chemistry: The cast’s chemistry and comedic timing are highlighted, with special praise for David Harbour’s performance as Red Guardian. There’s a consensus that the film successfully balances humor and serious themes. 😂 Post-Credit Scene Speculation: We speculate about the multi-dimensional craft seen in the post-credit scene, suggesting it could signal the introduction of new characters or plot threads, such as the Fantastic Four or even a new Kang. 🚀 In the end, we enjoyed delving into the complexities of “Thunderbolts,” exploring its approach to themes like humor, mental health, and character development within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We navigate the film’s intriguing mix of anti-heroes, discuss its place in the broader MCU narrative, and speculate on what its surprising twists might mean for future films. 🌟 Curious about how “Thunderbolts” shakes up the superhero genre and what implications it might have for Marvel's future? 🎬 Listen now  to find out if ‘Thunderbolts* The New Avengers’ will be pruned or if it will make it on the Sacred Timeline!

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Apple Podcasts (US)

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3 ratings

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5.0 / 5

1 ratings