We’re closing out Shocktober with a return to one of our favorite worlds! Alice in Borderland Season 3 — the thrilling conclusion to Netflix’s hit sci-fi survival series. Alice in Borderand has been special to this podcast from the start. We’ve covered all three seasons as they released, watching the mystery grow deeper, the world grow stranger, and the stakes climb higher and weirder with every twisted game. Season 3 delivers everything we love to talk about on this podcast: mind-bending mysteries, rich world-building, unforgettable characters, and wild events that keep us theorizing long after the credits roll. Join us as we explore the Borderland one last time: • How does the Borderland work? • Was Season 3's ending safe? • And will there be a Season 4? Safe travels, nomads.

Shocktober continues! This week, The Nomads of Fantasy sink their teeth into Sinners (2025), Ryan Coogler’s Southern Gothic vampire story set in the 1930s. We break down its haunting mix of horror and history, exploring Michael B. Jordan’s dual roles, Ryan Coogler’s direction, and the film’s deep themes of sin, faith, and survival. With stunning visuals by Autumn Durald Arkapaw, music by Ludwig Göransson, and production design by Hannah Beachler, Sinners proves that even in the dark, beauty and terror can coexist. Join us as we continue our month of chills with this soulful, blood-soaked entry in Shocktober — one that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.

For this Shocktober, The Nomads of Fantasy dive into the long-awaited anime adaptation of Uzumaki—Junji Ito’s hypnotic horror classic about a town consumed by spirals. Across four episodes, we found ourselves mesmerized by the haunting black-and-white art direction and genuinely impressed by the eerie tone of the first episode. Unfortunately, that’s where the spiral started to unravel. With almost no character development, a disjointed story, and an ending that left us more frustrated than frightened, Uzumaki became an experience that tested our patience as much as our sanity. Still, with its troubled production and ambitious visuals, it’s worth at least one watch—just maybe not all four.

This will be our second installment into our Shocktober series, and as those who have been diving into Indian cinema recently, Tumbbad completely blows us away. It’s not your typical horror movie—it feels like a dark fairy tale wrapped in myth and drenched in atmosphere. The story follows generations of greed centered around a cursed treasure and a forgotten god, all set in a remote, rain-soaked village that feels like a character itself. Every frame is rich with texture and detail, from the haunting score to the earthy visuals that make it feel timeless. It’s part horror, part fantasy, and part moral fable, blending traditional folklore with a cinematic style that rivals anything from Hollywood. If you’ve been enjoying movies from India lately, Tumbbad is one of those rare films that makes you appreciate just how rich and diverse the country’s creative voice truly is. Safe travels, nomads.

It's Shocktober and we're kicking off a month full of horror content for you all! In this episode, we dive into Resident Evil Village and explore why it fits so seamlessly into the legendary Resident Evil franchise. While it delivers refreshing additions—like terrifying werewolves prowling the village and the unforgettable Lady Dimitrescu towering over players—it also pays homage to the series’ roots. The ornate gothic castle echoes the atmosphere of the original Spencer Mansion, reminding longtime fans of the classic survival horror tone that started it all. We’ll unpack how Village balances innovation with tradition, carving out its own unique place in the series while celebrating what made Resident Evil iconic. And yes, Brandon actually played and beat this game. Safe travel, nomads.

For the final installment of our Summer of Sam series, Dave, Eric, and Brandon dive into Martin Scorsese’s Casino. While the casting choices might feel like the “safe bet” for this director, the acting across the board is still phenomenal and had us hooked. We talk about the film’s hefty runtime, its lackluster ending, and how its ultimate message is one of self-destruction—everyone in this story creates their own downfall. We also reflect on how Vegas itself has changed, no longer resembling the gritty, glamorous world Scorsese captured on screen. Despite its flaws, Casino is a movie everyone should see, and we had a blast breaking it all down. Stick around until the end for a round of Movie 20 Questions! Eyyyyyy, watch your self out there, nomads!

Our “Summer of Sam” continues as The Nomads of Fantasy board the haunted starship for Paul W.S. Anderson’s Event Horizon, starring Sam Neill and Laurence Fishburne. We gush over the film’s incredible production design, moody atmosphere, and a first half that lets the crew (and the dread) breathe. But we also talk about how the finale sputters into a dull ending—and how so much promising material was clearly cut, leaving a choppier, less satisfying experience than it could’ve been. Join us as we celebrate what works, lament what’s missing, and imagine the better version that might have been. Stick around for a round of 20 Questions after the conversation! Safe travels, nomads.

As we continue or Summer of Sam, we bring in Sam Elliott and finally rolling into the lanes of one of cinema’s most beloved cult classics: The Big Lebowski. Starring Jeff Bridges as the effortlessly iconic “The Dude,” John Goodman as the unhinged Vietnam vet Walter, Steve Buscemi as the soft-spoken Donny, Julianne Moore as the enigmatic Maude, and John Turturro as the unforgettable Jesus Quintana, this 1998 Coen Brothers comedy had us laughing, quoting, and marveling at how well it still holds up. Whether it’s the surreal dream sequences, the endlessly quotable dialogue, or the offbeat charm of every character, The Big Lebowski remains as fresh and funny as ever. Revisiting this film felt less like watching a movie and more like hanging out with old friends. The humor has aged beautifully—if anything, it’s even sharper now that we’re older and more attuned to its satirical brilliance. With a supporting cast including Philip Seymour Hoffman, Tara Reid, and David Huddleston, the film continues to deliver unexpected laughs and layered performances. The Dude abides, and so do we. Join us for a nostalgic, hilarious, and surprisingly thoughtful conversation about what makes this film a true masterpiece of modern comedy. Stick around for a round of Trivia after the conversation. Safe bowling, dudes.

Lets shine some light on Jackie Brown—a Quentin Tarantino gem that might not be the most talked-about in his filmography, but definitely deserves a spot in the conversation. As part of our Summer of Sam playlist, we couldn’t skip this excellent Sam Jackson performance. Jackie Brown brings together a fantastic and unexpected mix of actors—Pam Grier, Robert Forster, Bridget Fonda, Robert De Niro, Michael Keaton—and it’s rare to see this ensemble sharing the screen anywhere else. The movie’s cool, deliberate vibe is paired with a killer soundtrack that’s pure Tarantino style. It’s a crime story with heart, slick dialogue, and characters you actually care about. Join us as we dive into why Jackie Brown stands out, even among Tarantino’s heavy hitters, and why it’s a must-watch for fans of great casts, sharp writing, and, of course, Sam Jackson at his finest. Stick around for round of trivia at the end of the episode! Safe travels, muthafuckas!

Galaxy Quest (1999) is one of the most clever and affectionate love letters ever written to sci-fi fandom. It follows the washed-up cast of a cult sci-fi TV series who, after years of coasting on convention appearances, suddenly find themselves whisked into a real interstellar conflict by aliens who believe their show was genuine historical record. While it hilariously pokes fun at sci-fi tropes—like overblown captains, technobabble, and obsessive fans—it does so with deep respect and affection for the genre and its community. The film balances sharp parody with genuine heart, delivering a story that’s equal parts comedic romp and heartfelt adventure, anchored by excellent humor, tight pacing, and a fantastic ensemble cast featuring Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and the wonderful Sam Rockwell. This summer, Galaxy Quest kicks off our “Summer of Sam,” a movie marathon celebrating films featuring actors named Sam. Here, Sam Rockwell absolutely shines as Guy, the anxious extra terrified he’s destined to be the expendable crewman—a role that’s both hysterical and surprisingly relatable for any sci-fi fan. If you’ve never seen Galaxy Quest, it’s a must-watch, especially if you love Star Trek or sci-fi in general. It’s not just a parody; it’s a joyful tribute that understands why fans adore starships, aliens, and the hope woven into these stories. By the time the credits roll, you’ll be laughing, a little misty-eyed, and absolutely convinced that, even in space, never giving up and never surrendering is the way to go. Stick around until the end for a round of Star Wars Trivia! Safe travels, nomads!

Looking for fun, family-friendly games that parents and kids will both enjoy? In this episode, we share our top picks for the best video games to play with your kids—whether you're on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or PlayStation. From simple games for younger players to more challenging ones for older kids, we’ve got a range of titles that match different ages and skill levels. We also call out some affordable options that won’t break the bank. Whether you're looking for couch co-op, laugh-out-loud fun, or something with a bit more depth, there’s something here for every kind of gamer family. Stick around until the end of the episode for a round of Video Game 20 Questions! Safe travels, nomads.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a timeless showcase of filmmaking wonder, a brilliant marriage of animation and live-action that relied heavily on craftsmanship, meticulous planning, and artistic ingenuity. In a world before CGI became commonplace, the movie harnessed traditional hand-drawn animation techniques, practical effects, and carefully choreographed live-action interactions. It united directors, animators, actors, and set designers, each discipline contributing an essential layer to the magic. The seamless blending of humans and cartoons required precision timing, painstaking frame-by-frame animation supervised by Richard Williams, and thoughtful performances by actors such as Bob Hoskins, who convincingly interacted with characters who weren't physically present. This dedication to craftsmanship elevated the movie into a timeless classic, a testament to what cinema could achieve when multiple creative talents collaborate harmoniously. Today, the magic behind Who Framed Roger Rabbit feels somewhat lost amidst the digital convenience of modern film production. The tangible charm of practical effects, detailed set-building, and meticulous animation that brought Roger and Jessica Rabbit vividly to life has often been replaced by computer-generated imagery, sacrificing the unique artistry of hands-on filmmaking. The film serves as a poignant reminder of a time when storytelling relied not just on technology, but on the collective talents of artisans who dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft. By returning to these roots, modern cinema could recapture the heart, imagination, and enchantment that made films like Who Framed Roger Rabbit an enduring symbol of cinematic magic. Stick around until the end for a round of Movie 20 Questions! Safe travels, nomads.

Open the door and dive into Blue Prince, one of 2025’s most intriguing puzzle game releases—and a bold evolution in the genre. Blending a sense of discovery with strategic planning, Blue Prince invites players to build their own sprawling mansion room by room, all while racing against a mysterious ticking clock. It’s a masterclass in atmosphere and minimalist storytelling, wrapped in a mechanic that rewards both experimentation and forethought. We believe this game represents a shift in how puzzle games can deliver narrative and gameplay in tandem, without relying on heavy exposition or traditional hand-holding. Blue Prince is another shining example of how indie developers continue to push the medium forward. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for a unique experience or a hardcore player eager to break the game’s systems wide open, there’s something here for everyone. Its replayability, eerie charm, and satisfying progression loop make it a standout title and a strong contender for indie game of the year. Join us as we unpack the mechanics, moments, and meaning behind this mysterious mansion builder. Stick around until the end for a round of Video Game 20 Questions. Safe travels, nomads. Also, there's a key on the floor.

The 2002 adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo is a solid, straightforward retelling of Alexandre Dumas’ classic revenge tale. Split cleanly into three acts — betrayal, imprisonment, and revenge — the film plays it safe with its structure and storytelling. It doesn’t dig too deep into subplots or character complexities, instead choosing to keep its focus tight on Edmond Dantès’ transformation from naïve sailor to calculating count. While Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce carry the film as the central rivals, the most captivating performance comes from Richard Harris as Abbé Faria. His brief time on screen injects the film with heart and wisdom, creating one of the film’s standout segments. The score is dramatic and sweeping, adding emotional depth where the script occasionally plays it a little too straight. There are a few memorable moments scattered throughout, but the film never strays far from the expected path. Though it may not be groundbreaking, The Count of Monte Cristo remains an entertaining, well-produced period adventure. Still, it’s the kind of movie that’s easy to miss — or forget — if you’re not looking for it. Stick around until the end for a round of Movie 20 Questions. Safe travels, nomads.