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Tentpole Trauma

Tentpole Trauma

By: Tentpole Trauma
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A podcast where we look at movies that came with hype and high hopes, but left with crushing disappointment, either critically, at the box office, or both.Tentpole Trauma Art
Episodes
  • Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker
    May 19 2026

    Following the sale of Lucasfilm to Disney, the Star Wars brand came roaring back with the blockbuster release of the J.J. Abrams directed Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens, a film that still holds the record for highest grossing at the domestic box office. But, following Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi, an extremely divisive sequel directed by Rian Johnson, Lucasfilm president Kathleen hoped to correct matters by bringing Abrams back for the trilogy capper, Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker. And while the film did well at the box office, critics and fan reaction was almost unanimously negative, tarnishing the brand and relegating it to streaming for the better part of the decade. But is it really that bad? Join Sebastian, Chris and Rodney as they struggle with wayfinders, argue over what constitutes a "memberberry", and welcome back an Emperor who somehow returned.

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    2 hrs and 33 mins
  • Vampire in Brooklyn
    May 16 2026

    On paper, the pairing of superstar comedian Eddie Murphy and horror auteur Wes Craven for a comedic, black-centric vampire movie seems like a great idea; add the gorgeous and talented Angela Bassett to the mix as the Caribbean bloodsucker's love interest and you have the makings of a hit. Unfortunately, Vampire in Brooklyn missed the rich vein of critical and audience approval, though it has become something of a cult hit in recent years, thanks in no small part to Sinners star Michael B Jordan's love of the film. Join hosts Sebastian and Richard as they bust out the coffin, put on the bad wigs and bat wings and thrust a stake through the heart of this uneven but enjoyable mid-90s flick.

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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • The Specialist
    Mar 19 2026

    On paper, the pairing of Sylvester Stallone and Sharon Stone, both megawatt stars in 1994, seemed a promising cinematic prospect. Unfortunately, the resulting effort, Luis Llosa’s The Specialist, failed to deliver the action Stallone fans craved, nor the erotic heat Stone was famous for. But is it unintentionally hilarious? You bet! Join Sebastian and guest Richard Hamilton as they attempt to diffuse this misguided, Miami-based bomb.

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    1 hr and 35 mins
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