Your hosts of RB2 (Jay, Nick, and Brian) close out 2020 season 1 with This is the End.  A post-apocalyptic movie during a pandemic.  Can’t get anymore ironic than that.  The RB2 trio keep their composure as best as possible while reviewing this comedy reel.  And they also booze it up with a post-apocalyptic brew from Three 3’s.

Armageddon meets comedy in the laugh-out-loud movie This is The End

This is The End is an outrageous comedy that delivers on its promise of action-packed humor. Directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the film stars a who’s who of comedic talent, including James Franco, Jonah Hill, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, and Craig Robinson. The plot is simple: a group of Hollywood actors, playing themselves, attend a party at James Franco’s house when the apocalypse hits Los Angeles. As they try to survive, tensions rise and hilarity ensues.

One of the highlights of the movie is the chemistry between the stars. They play exaggerated versions of themselves, poking fun at their public personas and playing off each other’s comedic strengths. Franco’s pretentiousness, Hill’s insecurity, and McBride’s obnoxiousness are all on full display, and the actors seem to be having a blast making fun of themselves.

But This is The End is more than just a movie about Hollywood actors making fun of themselves. It’s also a movie about friendship and loyalty. As the characters are forced to confront the end of the world, they realize that their relationships with each other are more important than anything else. It’s a heartwarming message that’s wrapped up in a raunchy, profanity-laden package.

The movie is also full of over-the-top action sequences that are both hilarious and thrilling. The sight of the actors fighting off demons and monsters with improvised weapons is a joy to watch. The special effects are impressive, and the action is choreographed with a sense of humor that’s often missing from action movies.

Overall, This is The End is a raucous, action-packed comedy that’s sure to please fans of the stars and the genre. It’s a hilarious satire of Hollywood culture that also manages to be a heartwarming celebration of friendship. So, grab some drinks recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and watch This is The End with your friends for a fun-filled movie night!

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA New England
• ABV: 7%
• From: Three 3’s Brewing Co.

Your hosts of Reels, Booze & Bro’s (Brian, Nick & Jay) bring a special Christmas episode for all of you.  They discuss their top 5 Christmas movies to watch.  Answer whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie or not.  And lastly, the RB2 trio rave about Kane Brewery while discussing Christmas movies.

Here’s a top 10 list of reasons why Die Hard is a Christmas movie:

10. Family themes: The protagonist, John McClane, is a family man who is trying to reconcile with his wife during the holidays. The movie also touches on themes of family, love, and sacrifice

9. Christmas party: The main setting of the movie is a Christmas party held in the fictional Nakatomi Plaza, where McClane’s wife works.

8. Christmas gifts: One of the villains, Hans Gruber, steals a group of bearer bonds during the heist, which he refers to as “a very merry Christmas present.”

7. Christmas spirit: Despite being under attack by terrorists, the characters in the movie maintain a sense of Christmas spirit and camaraderie.

6. Die Hard advent calendar: The movie has inspired a popular advent calendar that counts down the days to Christmas with scenes from the movie.

5. Christmas movie screenings: Die Hard has become a staple of Christmas movie marathons and is often shown on TV during the holiday season.

4. Christmas movie tropes: The movie subverts and plays with traditional Christmas movie tropes such as the hero saving the day, the power of love and family, and the triumph of good over evil.

3. “Now I have a machine gun. Ho ho ho”: One of the most iconic lines from the movie is delivered by one of the villains, who wears a Santa hat and says, “Now I have a machine gun. Ho ho ho.”

2. Christmas setting: The movie takes place on Christmas Eve and features several holiday-themed elements such as Christmas decorations, music, and references to Santa Claus.

1. “Let it snow”: The movie ends with the song “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” playing over the credits, solidifying its place as a Christmas movie.

So there you have it, a top 10 list of reasons why Die Hard is a Christmas movie. If you want to add some action and holiday spirit to your Christmas movie lineup, grab some booze recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and give Die Hard a watch. Yippee-ki-yay, Christmas lovers!

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA Imperial/Double
• ABV: 8.4%
• From: Kane Brewing Company

• Style: Pale Ale American
• ABV: 5%
• From: Kane Brewing Company

Hosts Jay, Brian and Nick of Reels, Booze & Bro’s always wanted to be gangsters but never fully amounted to it.  So, listen to them review, arguably Martin Scorcese’s best picture, Goodfellas.  The booze they bring along on this wannabe gangster journey comes from Red Tank Brewing Company.  

Goodfellas is a movie that needs no introduction. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the movie is widely regarded as one of the greatest crime dramas of all time. Released in 1990, Goodfellas tells the story of Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta, a mobster who rises through the ranks of the mafia in New York City. With an all-star cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco, Goodfellas is a gritty and intense portrayal of life in the mob.

The movie is based on the real-life experiences of Henry Hill and his associates. It follows Henry’s life as he enters the world of organized crime as a young man and works his way up the ranks to become a trusted member of the mafia. The movie is known for its realistic portrayal of life in the mob, including the violence, the loyalty, and the code of honor that exists among the mobsters.

One of the standout features of the movie is the performance by Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito, a volatile and unpredictable mobster. Pesci’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and it’s easy to see why. His portrayal of Tommy is both terrifying and darkly humorous at the same time.

Robert De Niro also delivers an outstanding performance as Jimmy Conway, a seasoned mobster who takes Henry under his wing. De Niro’s performance is nuanced and understated, and he portrays the character with a sense of weariness and regret that is rare in movies about the mafia.

Another standout aspect of the movie is the music. The soundtrack is filled with classic songs from the ’50s and ’60s, which are used to great effect throughout the movie. From the opening scene to the closing credits, the music adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie and helps to transport the viewer back to a different time and place.

Throughout the movie, there are several instances of ad-libbing, which add to the overall realism of the movie. Many of these ad-libs were made by Joe Pesci, who was known for his improvisational skills. One famous example is the scene where Tommy asks Henry if he’s funny, and then proceeds to intimidate him. Pesci’s performance in this scene is both hilarious and terrifying, and it’s a testament to his talent as an actor.

Goodfellas received critical acclaim upon its release and has since become a classic of the crime drama genre. It holds a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its direction, performances, and writing.

So, if you’re in the mood for a gritty and intense portrayal of life in the mafia, grab a drink recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and give Goodfellas a watch. It’s a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA Milkshake
• ABV: 7%
• From: Red Tank Brewing

• Style: Farmhouse Ale – Saison
• ABV: 5.5%
• From: Red Tank Brewing

Reels, Booze & Bro’s hosts (Jay, Brian, and Nick) will be drinking booze from the local brewery of Alternate Ending during this Reel review of The Other Guys.  So, listen in while driving in your Prius, on your phone, or when you’re hanging out with Dirty Mike and the boys!  We are all peacocks learning to fly in this episode!

The Other Guys is a 2010 action-comedy film directed by Adam McKay and starring Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg. The movie follows two New York City detectives, Allen Gamble (Ferrell) and Terry Hoitz (Wahlberg), who are assigned to investigate white-collar crime while working in the shadow of two more famous cops.

The movie opens with a high-octane action sequence that ends in tragedy, leaving Detectives Highsmith (Samuel L. Jackson) and Danson (Dwayne Johnson) as the city’s heroes. Meanwhile, Allen and Terry are stuck doing paperwork in the background. When a financial scam leads to a major case, the duo must step up and solve the crime, despite their own ineptitude.

The Hilarious Dynamic Between Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg One of the movie’s highlights is the chemistry between Ferrell and Wahlberg. Ferrell plays the straight-laced, nerdy Allen Gamble, while Wahlberg is the tough, street-smart Terry Hoitz. Their personalities clash, but their banter is hilarious. Ferrell’s deadpan delivery and Wahlberg’s quick temper make for a comedic match made in heaven.

The Other Guys also features an impressive supporting cast. Michael Keaton plays the duo’s police captain who moonlights as a Bed Bath & Beyond employee, and Steve Coogan is the sleazy businessman at the center of the financial scam. Eva Mendes plays Allen’s wife, who is way out of his league, and she delivers some of the movie’s funniest lines.

One of the things that sets The Other Guys apart from other comedies is the amount of ad-libbing and improvisation that went into the movie. The script was written by director Adam McKay and Chris Henchy, but the cast was given a lot of freedom to improvise and add their own jokes to the scenes. This led to some hilarious moments that feel natural and unscripted.

The Other Guys was a commercial success, grossing over $170 million worldwide. It also received positive reviews from critics, with a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the movie’s humor, action, and the chemistry between Ferrell and Wahlberg.

In conclusion, The Other Guys is a hilarious action-comedy that features a standout performance by Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg. The two leads have great comedic chemistry, and the supporting cast adds even more laughs to the mix. The ad-libbing and improvisation throughout the movie make it feel fresh and spontaneous. Its critical acclaim and popularity are a testament to its enduring appeal.

Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell’s comedic chemistry in The Other Guys is simply unmatched. If you’re looking for some action-packed laughs, grab a drink recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and join Terry and Allen on their wild ride as the most unlikely cops in New York City.

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA Imperial
• ABV: 8%
• From: Alternate Ending Beer Co.

• Style: IPA Imperial
• ABV: 8.2%
• From: Alternate Ending Beer Co.

Your hosts (Jay, Nick & Brian) of Reels, Booze & Bro’s booze it up with a nice IPA from a local brewery all while discussing Coming to America.  Get to know how we really feel about Randy Watson.  

Eddie Murphy Shines in Coming to America (1988)

Coming to America (1988) is a classic comedy film directed by John Landis and written by Eddie Murphy, David Sheffield, and Barry W. Blaustein. The film stars Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem Joffer, a young African prince who travels to Queens, New York, in search of true love and adventure.

The movie follows Prince Akeem, who is bored with his pampered lifestyle and decides to travel to America with his loyal friend and servant Semmi (Arsenio Hall). The duo poses as poor students and rents a rundown apartment in Queens. There, they meet a variety of colorful characters, including Lisa McDowell (Shari Headley), the daughter of a fast-food restaurant owner, and Clarence (Eddie Murphy), a barber at the local barbershop.

The Versatility of Eddie Murphy’s Characters One of the highlights of Coming to America is the versatility of Eddie Murphy’s characters. Throughout the film, Murphy plays multiple roles, including the lead character Prince Akeem, as well as Clarence the barber, Saul the Jewish man at the barbershop, and Randy Watson, a soul singer. Each character is distinct and memorable, and Murphy seamlessly transitions between them with ease.

Murphy’s performance as Prince Akeem is also notable. He brings a certain charm and likability to the character, and his fish-out-of-water interactions with the people of Queens provide some of the movie’s funniest moments.

Coming to America was a commercial success, grossing over $288 million worldwide. The movie also received positive reviews from critics, with a 66% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the movie’s humor and Eddie Murphy’s performance, with many calling it one of his best.

The movie’s popularity has only grown in the years since its release, with many considering it a classic of the genre. It has also influenced a number of other comedies that followed, with its themes of self-discovery and the importance of family resonating with audiences of all ages.

In conclusion, Coming to America (1988) is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy that showcases the talent and versatility of Eddie Murphy. The movie’s memorable characters, witty dialogue, and themes of love and family have made it a classic of the genre. Its critical acclaim and enduring popularity are a testament to its enduring appeal.

Eddie Murphy’s range of characters in Coming to America is a true masterpiece of comedy. If you’re in the mood for some classic ’80s humor, grab a drink recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and join Prince Akeem and Semmi on their hilarious journey in Coming to America!

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA Imperial
• ABV: 8.2%
• From: Jughandle Brewing

Hosts Brian, Nick, and Jay of Reels, Booze & Bro’s aka RB2 launch their Booze and Film review podcast with Ghostbusters (1984).  Listen in to hear what beer they are drinking this week and their thoughts on a timeless rewatchable movie.  Listen to the end to catch what movie they will be reviewing next episode!

Ghostbusters (1984): A Comedy Classic That Will Keep You Laughing and Boozing

Ghostbusters (1984) is a classic comedy movie that has captured the hearts of millions of viewers since its release. Directed by Ivan Reitman and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, the movie stars an ensemble cast of comedy legends including Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson.

The movie follows the story of three parapsychologists, Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), and Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis), who are fired from their university jobs and decide to start their own business as ghost exterminators. With the help of Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson), the team sets out to save New York City from an impending ghost invasion.

The movie is filled with hilarious moments, including the iconic scene where the Ghostbusters catch their first ghost, the Slimer. The team’s interaction with the various characters in the movie is also a highlight, with the banter between Murray’s Venkman and Sigourney Weaver’s Dana Barrett being particularly entertaining.

Billy Murray Steals the Show! One of the key factors that make Ghostbusters so memorable is the performance of Bill Murray. His deadpan delivery and comedic timing are on full display throughout the movie, and he steals every scene he’s in. Murray’s portrayal of Peter Venkman is a perfect mix of charm and irreverence, and he makes the character both likable and hilarious.

The other members of the Ghostbusters team also deliver standout performances. Dan Aykroyd’s Ray Stantz is endearing and enthusiastic, while Harold Ramis’ Egon Spengler is the perfect straight man to Murray’s comedic antics. Ernie Hudson’s Winston Zeddemore is a great addition to the team and brings a grounded perspective to the movie.

Ghostbusters was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The movie currently holds an 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising the movie’s humor, performances, and special effects. The movie was also a box office hit, grossing over $295 million worldwide.

The movie’s popularity has only grown in the years since its release, with a dedicated fan base and multiple sequels and spin-offs. The movie has become a cultural touchstone, with references to Ghostbusters appearing in countless other movies, TV shows, and even video games.

In conclusion, Ghostbusters (1984) is a comedy classic that has stood the test of time. The movie’s humor, performances, and special effects are all top-notch, and it remains a beloved favorite of both critics and audiences alike. Billy Murray’s performance is a standout and adds to the movie’s overall charm.

Whether you’re a fan of the original or just looking for some classic comedy, Ghostbusters is a must-watch movie. So grab your proton pack, a cold drink recommended by Reels, Booze & Bro’s podcast, and get ready to bust some ghosts!

Booze we had for the podcast

• Style: IPA Imperial
• ABV: 8.2%
• From: Jughandle Brewing