https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-pod-of-five-rings--4784722enFilm ReviewsCopyright Maximus Networkhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d0a7f27566f5fff29643dde8107aca91.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-pod-of-five-rings--4784722Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:05:57 +0000Maximus NetworkMaximus Networkfeeds@spreaker.comThe Pod Of Five Rings is about one thing and one thing only: "The art of ass kickery". We aren't just talking about low level back alley brawls either. We are talking about martial arts under the bright lights of Hollywood. In this podcast two...trueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-33-the-perfect-weapon--49138503
Join your hosts as they dive in to this martial arts masterpiece and discover why exactly Jeff Speakman IS The Perfect Weapon.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49138503Wed, 23 Mar 2022 11:30:02 +0000Maximus NetworkWhat is the perfect weapon? Sword? Nah. Firearm? Pfft. Smart Missile? No. Jeff Speakman and his fearsome Kenpo fists. In this 1991 classic, Jeff plays Jeff, a rough and tumble street tough with a heart of gold. After his master is killed in Koreatown,...
Join your hosts as they dive in to this martial arts masterpiece and discover why exactly Jeff Speakman IS The Perfect Weapon.]]>4794arts,cebula,five,jeff,joe,kenpo,martial,of,pod,rings,rob,rowland,speakmantruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-32-the-process-aka-the-ultimate-fight--48614266https://gofund.me/e7703a55

Ernie Reyes Jr, a true icon of martial arts cinema, makes his directorial debut with The Process (aka The Ultimate Fight.) After a Kali master comes to the United States, he finds himself ensnared in a world of prostitution, drug dealing, and Nazis. Is it good? Not really. Is it fun? Hell yes!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48614266Mon, 07 Feb 2022 12:00:03 +0000Maximus NetworkBefore we begin, Ernie Reyes Jr - star of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II, Surf Ninjas, and the director of this movie, is currently undergoing dialysis and awaiting a kidney transplant. His family has set up a gofundme to help offset the cost of the...https://gofund.me/e7703a55

Ernie Reyes Jr, a true icon of martial arts cinema, makes his directorial debut with The Process (aka The Ultimate Fight.) After a Kali master comes to the United States, he finds himself ensnared in a world of prostitution, drug dealing, and Nazis. Is it good? Not really. Is it fun? Hell yes!]]>4760arts,choreography,ernie,fight,five,jr,martial,of,pod,reyes,ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-31-american-ninja-v--47946562https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47946562Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:44:56 +0000Maximus NetworkPrepare yourself for the epic conclusion to the legendary franchise. No, there's no Joe Armstrong. No, there's no Sean Davidson. Instead, David Bradley has been recast as Joe Kastle (confused yet?). Together with his side kick Hiro, Joe travels to...6570american,arts,fighting,five,martial,ninja,ninjutsu,of,pod,ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-30-american-ninja-iv-the-annihilation--47862109https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47862109Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:00:01 +0000Maximus NetworkThe plot of American Ninja IV is the same as it ever was: evil terrorist organization plans to nuke the United States unless their demands are met. Typical bad guy stuff. BUT! What makes American Ninja IV special is the return of Michael Dudikoff as...5935american,arts,bradley,david,davidson,dudikoff,fighting,five,martial,michael,ninja,ninjutsu,of,pod,rings,seantruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-29-american-ninja-iii-ninja-november--47720127https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47720127Tue, 30 Nov 2021 13:52:35 +0000Maximus NetworkAn evil organization. Genetically modified ninja army. Curtis Jackson baby-sitting a grumpy white guy. Is this American Ninja 2? NO, but it is American Ninja 3. Introducing David Bradley as Sean Davidson, the NEW American Ninja, this film is arguably...4149american,arts,fight,fighting,five,martial,ninja,ninjutsu,of,pod,ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-28-american-ninja-ii-ninja-november--47504282
Not at all shocked to once again be fighting against ninja, Joe and Curtis suit up and prepare to deliver justice, pain, and ass beatings.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47504282Tue, 16 Nov 2021 18:10:10 +0000Maximus NetworkFresh off the heels of their first adventure, Army Rangers Joe Armstrong and Curtis Jackson are sent in investigate the disappearance of Marines at the US Embassy. What they discover is an abomination against nature, and an insult to ninja culture - a...
Not at all shocked to once again be fighting against ninja, Joe and Curtis suit up and prepare to deliver justice, pain, and ass beatings.]]>5247american,confrontation,five,ninja,ninjutsu,of,pod,rings,thefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-27-american-ninja-ninja-november--47360157
Join us in this first installment of "Ninja November" as we review and discuss every installment in the American Ninja franchise.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47360157Mon, 08 Nov 2021 12:00:11 +0000Maximus NetworkAn ancient art. A hidden army. A Michael Dudikoff. These are the elements that make up the first American Ninja. After uncovering a plot to steal army weapons and sell them to the highest bidder, ex-con turned soldier Joe Armstrong (Dudikoff) teams up...
Join us in this first installment of "Ninja November" as we review and discuss every installment in the American Ninja franchise.]]>561280s,action,american,arts,cinema,film,five,martial,movies,ninja,ninjutsu,of,pod,ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-26-muay-thai-warrior--47210033
Betrayed and abandoned in Thailand, former samurai Yamada Nagamasa is nursed back to health and befriended by a group of Siamese warriors. While living among them, he is taught the beautifully brutal martial art of Muay Thai. After he uncovers a plot to incite war between Thailand and Japan, Yamada must decide where his loyalties lie - to the people he loves, or to the place he used to call home. What defines you? The blood in your veins, or the dirt you choose to be buried in after you die?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47210033Fri, 29 Oct 2021 11:00:18 +0000Maximus NetworkBased on a true story, Yamada: The Samurai of Ayothaya (aka Muay Thai Warrior) is a martial arts spectacle featuring some of the greatest Muay Thai fighters alive. Betrayed and abandoned in Thailand, former samurai Yamada Nagamasa is nursed back to...
Betrayed and abandoned in Thailand, former samurai Yamada Nagamasa is nursed back to health and befriended by a group of Siamese warriors. While living among them, he is taught the beautifully brutal martial art of Muay Thai. After he uncovers a plot to incite war between Thailand and Japan, Yamada must decide where his loyalties lie - to the people he loves, or to the place he used to call home. What defines you? The blood in your veins, or the dirt you choose to be buried in after you die?]]>3938arts,five,martial,muay,of,pod,rings,samurai,thaitruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-25-the-street-fighter--46982152
dir. Shigehiro Ozawa]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46982152Sat, 16 Oct 2021 11:00:16 +0000Maximus NetworkAssassin-for-Hire and Karate Master Terry Tsurugi (played by the legendary Sonny Chiba) may be a cold blooded killer, but he is not heartless. After the heiress to an oil fortune is targeted for murder, Terry agrees to protect her. Earning itself...
dir. Shigehiro Ozawa]]>4270arts,chiba,fighter,film,five,karate,martial,movies,of,pod,review,rings,sonny,streetfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-24-remo-williams--46712885https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46712885Mon, 04 Oct 2021 11:00:18 +0000Maximus NetworkEvery move he makes, another chance he takes - odds are he won't live to see tomorrow. So says the song, and the plot of 1985's 'Remo Williams'. Following Fred Willard as "Remo," we journey into the world of top secret spy organizations (run by...4404truefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-23-the-36th-chamber-of-shaolin--46379242https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46379242Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:00:11 +0000Maximus NetworkWhat is "kung fu?" Is it punches & kicks? Joint locks & throws? Swords and spears? Or is it something more? Is it the pursuit of self mastery for its own sake? That is what Lau Kar-Lung's 1978 "36th Chamber of Shaolin" attempts to answer. After his...451236th,chamber,fight,film,five,kungfu,martialarts,movie,of,pod,review,rings,shaolintruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-22-gymkata--46194113
Gymkata dir. Robert Clouse]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46194113Mon, 23 Aug 2021 05:00:15 +0000Maximus NetworkAt the height of the Cold War, American dominance hinges on establishing a new satellite monitoring base in the remote nation of "Parmistan." To do so, one man must win "The Game" - a yearly competition held by the King of Parmistan, combining...
Gymkata dir. Robert Clouse]]>5525commentary,fighting,film,five,gymkata,gymnast,gymnastics,martialarts,movie,movies,of,pod,review,riff,rings,tracktruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-21-mortal-kombat--45983476
In 1992, the world was introduced to a fighting game which would revolutionize the genre and almost single-handedly cause the creation of the ESRB - the Entertainment Software Rating Board. Bringing together martial artists from all over the world (and elsewhere), and combining fast paced action with raw, gruesome, bloody gore, Mortal Kombat is a video game franchise like no other.

So it is fitting that in 1995, New Line Cinema and Paul W.S Anderson would deliver a PG-13, bloodless, campy, B-Movie adaptation. Is it good? Is it bad? Choose your destiny...]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45983476Thu, 05 Aug 2021 20:18:52 +0000Maximus NetworkNothing in the world can prepare you for MORTAL KOMBATTTTTTT *pause for intense dancing and spinning kicks* In 1992, the world was introduced to a fighting game which would revolutionize the genre and almost single-handedly cause the creation of...
In 1992, the world was introduced to a fighting game which would revolutionize the genre and almost single-handedly cause the creation of the ESRB - the Entertainment Software Rating Board. Bringing together martial artists from all over the world (and elsewhere), and combining fast paced action with raw, gruesome, bloody gore, Mortal Kombat is a video game franchise like no other.

So it is fitting that in 1995, New Line Cinema and Paul W.S Anderson would deliver a PG-13, bloodless, campy, B-Movie adaptation. Is it good? Is it bad? Choose your destiny...]]>3815five,game,kombat,mortal,of,pod,raiden,rings,scorpion,subzero,videotruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-20-red-belt--45829029
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Redbelt (2008)
Director: David Mamet]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45829029Sat, 24 Jul 2021 21:16:54 +0000Maximus NetworkPart Greek Tragedy, part Kurosawa-inspired Samurai film, part love letter to Jiu-Jitsu, 2008’s “Redbelt” tells the story of Mike Terry, a former Marine and BJJ black belt who struggles to keep his business afloat while also adhering to a rigid code of...
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Redbelt (2008)
Director: David Mamet]]>3790bjj,david mamet,film,film review,joe cebula,martial arts,redbelt,rob rowland,samurai,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-19-orochi--45684123
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Orochi (1925)
Director: Buntarô Futagawa]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45684123Tue, 13 Jul 2021 19:24:43 +0000Maximus NetworkBefore the Baba Yaga, before the Crane Kick, before the fists of fury, before even Frank Sinatra was doing Judo flips in his films, there was Orochi. Released in 1925, Bunter Futagawa’s “Orochi” is cited as the world’s first martial arts film. Made...
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Orochi (1925)
Director: Buntarô Futagawa]]>3543buntaro futagawa,film,joe cebula,martial arts,orochi,review,rob rowland,samurai,silent film,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-18-the-last-dragon--45599499
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The Last Dragon (1985)
Director: Michael Schultz]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45599499Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:57:53 +0000Maximus NetworkCombining classic kung fu action with the spectacle of a music video, Barry Gordy’s The Last Dragon is a masterpiece of action, comedy, heart, and camp. This week, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland review this 1980s classic (and oh boy….is it from...
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The Last Dragon (1985)
Director: Michael Schultz]]>4400bruce leeoy,film,joe cebula,kungfu,martial art,review,rob rowland,sho nuff,the last dragon,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-17-black-dynamite--45484936
Playing expertly on the tropes of the “blaxploitation” genre from the 1970s, ‘Black Dynamite’ is the rare film that is simultaneously a love letter to and a criticism of the genre it parodies. What at first seems like typical b-movie shlock quickly becomes a hilarious mix of avant garde performances, over the top plots, and Michael Jai White’s signature martial arts style at its best.

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Black Dynamite (2009)
Director: Scott Sanders]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45484936Mon, 28 Jun 2021 21:37:56 +0000Maximus Network“Ever since I was a boy, all I knew was how to fight. Fight, fight, fight. And when I got tired, I would fight some more.” So goes the life of former CIA operative and Vietnam vet Black Dynamite. After uncovering a plot to fill the local orphanages...
Playing expertly on the tropes of the “blaxploitation” genre from the 1970s, ‘Black Dynamite’ is the rare film that is simultaneously a love letter to and a criticism of the genre it parodies. What at first seems like typical b-movie shlock quickly becomes a hilarious mix of avant garde performances, over the top plots, and Michael Jai White’s signature martial arts style at its best.

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Black Dynamite (2009)
Director: Scott Sanders]]>4757black dynamite,blaxploitation,film review,joe cebula,martial arts,michael jai white,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-16-tampopo--45308329
Is NOT what Tampopo is about. This 1985 classic follows Tampopo as she develops from a fledgling, would-be ramen chef to the best in town. Through her sheer passion and desire to create the world’s best ramen, Tampopo finds mentors, partners, and friends who help her develop and perfect her craft. What this film lacks in martial arts ACTION, it makes up for with martial arts SPIRIT. As Tampopo faces adversity, setback, and stumble, she and her crew press forward in the name of culinary perfection. A pursuit done for its own sake, not for the money or the glory, this film perfectly embodies the spirit of martial arts - not to best others, but to be the best version of yourself. And that’s without even talking about the food-obsessed gangsters!

Tampopo (1985)
Dir. Juzo Itami]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45308329Tue, 15 Jun 2021 20:20:07 +0000Maximus NetworkHigh flying kicks. Death defying stunts. Relentless, Unyielding Violence... Is NOT what Tampopo is about. This 1985 classic follows Tampopo as she develops from a fledgling, would-be ramen chef to the best in town. Through her sheer passion and...
Is NOT what Tampopo is about. This 1985 classic follows Tampopo as she develops from a fledgling, would-be ramen chef to the best in town. Through her sheer passion and desire to create the world’s best ramen, Tampopo finds mentors, partners, and friends who help her develop and perfect her craft. What this film lacks in martial arts ACTION, it makes up for with martial arts SPIRIT. As Tampopo faces adversity, setback, and stumble, she and her crew press forward in the name of culinary perfection. A pursuit done for its own sake, not for the money or the glory, this film perfectly embodies the spirit of martial arts - not to best others, but to be the best version of yourself. And that’s without even talking about the food-obsessed gangsters!

Tampopo (1985)
Dir. Juzo Itami]]>5054arts,cebula,cinema,film,five,food,fu,japan,joe,karate,kung,martial,movies,of,pod,review,rings,rob,rowland,tampopotruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-15-best-movie-fights--45250353
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Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45250353Thu, 10 Jun 2021 20:15:20 +0000Maximus NetworkThe fight. Nothing in cinema is more compelling, more entertaining, or more visceral than human beings locked in battle for domination. It is quite literally in our DNA to love combat. To that end, today hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland sit down...
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Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula]]>6340arts,cebula,fight,film,five,joe,martial,movie,of,pod,review,rings,rob,rowland,thetruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-14-sword-of-doom--45125309
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Sword of Doom (1966)
Director: Kihachi Okamoto]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45125309Tue, 01 Jun 2021 18:17:46 +0000Maximus Network"The sword is the soul. Study the soul to know the sword. Evil mind, evil sword." This is the spirit of Kihachi Okomoto's "Sword of Doom." The story of masterless samurai Ryonosuke, we follow him across Japan as he dominates his opponents and kills...
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Sword of Doom (1966)
Director: Kihachi Okamoto]]>4213film,joe cebula,martial arts,podcast,review,ron rowland,samirai,sword of doom,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-13-born-a-champion--45005111
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Born A Champion (2021)
Director: Alex Ranarivelo]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45005111Mon, 24 May 2021 21:33:32 +0000Maximus NetworkWinning and losing are results out of your control. Quitting is a choice. Released in 2021, @spflanery’s “Born A Champion” tells the story of Mickey Kelley, an American jiu-jitsu black belt who suffers a devastating injury and loss in an underground...
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Born A Champion (2021)
Director: Alex Ranarivelo]]>4184arts,bjj,cebula,film,five,flanery,jiujitsu,joe,martial,of,patrick,pod,review,rings,rob,rowland,sean,thetruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-12-fighter-in-the-wind--44819494

2004’s ‘Fighter in The Wind’ follows a young Oyama (born Choi Bae-Dal) as he fights to prove himself. Transcending nationalities, borders, and styles, and subjecting himself to the most brutal of training regimens, Bae-Dal aims to become the best fighter in all of Japan. Does he succeed and is it worth it? Listen to the Pod of 5 Rings and find out!

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Fighter In The Wind (2004)
Director: Yun-ho Yang]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44819494Mon, 17 May 2021 19:37:09 +0000Maximus NetworkThe spirit of martial arts is to endure, persevere, and fight strong. No story encapsulates this more than the origin of Kyokushin Karate and its founder, Mas Oyama. 2004’s ‘Fighter in The Wind’ follows a young Oyama (born Choi Bae-Dal) as he fights...

2004’s ‘Fighter in The Wind’ follows a young Oyama (born Choi Bae-Dal) as he fights to prove himself. Transcending nationalities, borders, and styles, and subjecting himself to the most brutal of training regimens, Bae-Dal aims to become the best fighter in all of Japan. Does he succeed and is it worth it? Listen to the Pod of 5 Rings and find out!

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Fighter In The Wind (2004)
Director: Yun-ho Yang]]>3966fighter in the wind,film,film review,joe cebula,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-11-tokyo-zombie--44567200
Released in 2005 and based on a 1999 manga of the same name, Tokyo Zombie follows two best friends and jiu-jitsu enthusiasts as they make their way out of Tokyo during an undead uprising.

Combining elements of slapstick, gore comedy, buddy cop tropes, and even zombie fight clubs (yeah), Tokyo Zombie takes you on a journey that you may not understand, but you’ll definitely enjoy.

And the film justifies @joe_cebula’s belief that jiu-jitsu is boring to watch.

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Tokyo Zombie (2005)
Director: Sakichi Sato]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44567200Fri, 30 Apr 2021 18:08:33 +0000Maximus NetworkZombies. Tokyo. Jiu-jitsu. Best friends. What more could you want? Released in 2005 and based on a 1999 manga of the same name, Tokyo Zombie follows two best friends and jiu-jitsu enthusiasts as they make their way out of Tokyo during an undead...
Released in 2005 and based on a 1999 manga of the same name, Tokyo Zombie follows two best friends and jiu-jitsu enthusiasts as they make their way out of Tokyo during an undead uprising.

Combining elements of slapstick, gore comedy, buddy cop tropes, and even zombie fight clubs (yeah), Tokyo Zombie takes you on a journey that you may not understand, but you’ll definitely enjoy.

And the film justifies @joe_cebula’s belief that jiu-jitsu is boring to watch.

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Tokyo Zombie (2005)
Director: Sakichi Sato]]>3822arts,bjj,cebula,film,five,jiujitsu,joe,martial,of,pod,review,rings,rob,rowland,the,tokyo,zombittruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-10-only-the-strong--44455994

Mixing martial arts action and “To Sir, With Love” themes, Only The Strong is an underrated gem of a movie. Join your hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland as we get the drums going and dive in on this week’s Pod of Five Rings.

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Only The Strong (1993)
Director: Sheldon Lettich]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44455994Sat, 24 Apr 2021 20:22:49 +0000Maximus NetworkThe story of a passionate teacher reaching the troubled youth is almost a guaranteed success. Add in the acrobatic beauty of Afro-Brazilian Capoeira and the charisma of Mark Dacascos, and you’ve got 1993’s Only The Strong.  Mixing martial arts...

Mixing martial arts action and “To Sir, With Love” themes, Only The Strong is an underrated gem of a movie. Join your hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland as we get the drums going and dive in on this week’s Pod of Five Rings.

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Only The Strong (1993)
Director: Sheldon Lettich]]>4252capoeira,film review,joe cebula,mark dacascos,martial arts,only the strong,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-9-lady-bloodfight--44379802
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Lady Bloodfight (2016)
Director: Chris Nahon]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44379802Sun, 18 Apr 2021 15:12:23 +0000Maximus NetworkA sequel is one thing, a reboot is another. A gender-swapped homage is something all its own. In the 2017 film “Lady Bloodfight,” we follow Jane as she enters the mysterious underground tournament known as the “Kumite.” Sound familiar? But Lady...
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Lady Bloodfight (2016)
Director: Chris Nahon]]>3724film,film review,joe cebula,lady bloodfight,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-8-bloodsport--44276495
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Bloodsport (1988)
Director: Newt Arnold]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44276495Fri, 09 Apr 2021 22:10:45 +0000Maximus NetworkBloodsport is the 1988 “true” story of Frank Dux, infamous ninja master and champion of the kumite. Starring a young Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bloodsport is one of the most influential (and badass) martial arts films ever made. This week, hosts...
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Bloodsport (1988)
Director: Newt Arnold]]>5098bloodsport,film,film review,jcvd,joe cebula,martial arts,ron rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-7-007--441834301. You're about to sit down and enjoy an installment of the longest running, most successful action adventure film franchise or
2. You're about to die.

In this week's Pod of 5 Rings, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland pull a double feature to discuss the 1967 Sean Connery led "You Only Live Twice" and the 2006 Daniel Craig "Casino Royale." We discuss how action filmmaking tactics have evolved between the two films, the impact of Bond on the cultural zeitgeist, and what it is that makes 007 such an everlasting character.

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You Only Live Twice (1967)
Director: Lewis Gilbert

Casino Royale (2006)
Director: Martin Campbell]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44183430Mon, 05 Apr 2021 19:17:16 +0000Maximus Network"Bond. James Bond." When you hear that name it means one of two things is about to happen. 1. You're about to sit down and enjoy an installment of the longest running, most successful action adventure film franchise or 2. You're about to die. In...1. You're about to sit down and enjoy an installment of the longest running, most successful action adventure film franchise or
2. You're about to die.

In this week's Pod of 5 Rings, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland pull a double feature to discuss the 1967 Sean Connery led "You Only Live Twice" and the 2006 Daniel Craig "Casino Royale." We discuss how action filmmaking tactics have evolved between the two films, the impact of Bond on the cultural zeitgeist, and what it is that makes 007 such an everlasting character.

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You Only Live Twice (1967)
Director: Lewis Gilbert

Casino Royale (2006)
Director: Martin Campbell]]>4307007,film,film review,james bond,joe cebula,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-6-best-of-the-best--44068151
In this week’s Pod of Five Rings, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland discuss Best of The Best (known as BoB by the cool people) going in to its strengths as a narrative, what it says about teamwork and leadership, as well as some of the darker aspects of competition.

Also, did we mention James Earl Jones is in it?

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Best of the Best (1989)
Director: Rob Radler]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44068151Fri, 26 Mar 2021 21:35:18 +0000Maximus NetworkBest of The Best is the quintessential underdog team movie that delivers on what it promises: this is some of the best of the best martial arts storytelling, and character development, and kicked off a staple franchise in the “direct-to-DVD” market....
In this week’s Pod of Five Rings, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland discuss Best of The Best (known as BoB by the cool people) going in to its strengths as a narrative, what it says about teamwork and leadership, as well as some of the darker aspects of competition.

Also, did we mention James Earl Jones is in it?

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Best of the Best (1989)
Director: Rob Radler]]>5714best of the best,film,joe cebula,martial arts,review,rob rowland,the pod of five ringsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-5-kung-fu-panda--43967512Kung Fu Panda is Dreamworks’ love note to kung fu movies and Asian cinema as a whole. Join us today as we venture in to the Dragon Warrior’s world of flying kicks, the dark side of ambition, and looking beyond a person’s outer appearance to discover the true secret ingredient of kung fu.

Additionally, this podcast is a celebration of martial arts from all cultures and all origins, but owes a particular thanks to Asian martial arts. Right now the Asian-American community needs us to step up and show support in wake of the recent acts of bigotry and cowardice. Below is a list of websites you can use to discover how you can help.

Asian American Arts Alliance: https://www.aaartsalliance.org

Bystander Intervention Training: https://www.ihollaback.org

Asian American news source https://nextshark.com

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Kung Fu Panda(2008)
Directors: Mark Osborne, John Stevenson]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43967512Fri, 19 Mar 2021 20:53:53 +0000Maximus NetworkReleased in 2008, Kung Fu Panda is Dreamworks’ love note to kung fu movies and Asian cinema as a whole. Join us today as we venture in to the Dragon Warrior’s world of flying kicks, the dark side of ambition, and looking beyond a person’s outer...Kung Fu Panda is Dreamworks’ love note to kung fu movies and Asian cinema as a whole. Join us today as we venture in to the Dragon Warrior’s world of flying kicks, the dark side of ambition, and looking beyond a person’s outer appearance to discover the true secret ingredient of kung fu.

Additionally, this podcast is a celebration of martial arts from all cultures and all origins, but owes a particular thanks to Asian martial arts. Right now the Asian-American community needs us to step up and show support in wake of the recent acts of bigotry and cowardice. Below is a list of websites you can use to discover how you can help.

Asian American Arts Alliance: https://www.aaartsalliance.org

Bystander Intervention Training: https://www.ihollaback.org

Asian American news source https://nextshark.com

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Kung Fu Panda(2008)
Directors: Mark Osborne, John Stevenson]]>5466film review,joe cebula,kung fu panda,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five ringstruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-4-the-magnificent-seven--43861798
Consider also that THIS particular film was inspired by the last film we reviewed, Seven Samurai, and you'll see why we had to tackle this next.

The Magnificent Seven is a very enjoyable Old West adventure that is a fair representation of the genre. And the cast is UNREAL.

Tune in!

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Director: John Sturges]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43861798Fri, 12 Mar 2021 20:16:06 +0000Maximus NetworkConsider this: The Old West Gunslinger is a western version of the eastern Samurai. Consider also that THIS particular film was inspired by the last film we reviewed, Seven Samurai, and you'll see why we had to tackle this next. The Magnificent...
Consider also that THIS particular film was inspired by the last film we reviewed, Seven Samurai, and you'll see why we had to tackle this next.

The Magnificent Seven is a very enjoyable Old West adventure that is a fair representation of the genre. And the cast is UNREAL.

Tune in!

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

The Magnificent Seven (1960)
Director: John Sturges]]>44967,arts,cebula,film,five,joe,magnificent,martial,of,pod,review,rings,rob,rowland,seven,thetruefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-3-seven-samurai--43636767
It also has a bunch of samurai doing samurai stuff!

Prepare to get deep in the weeds on this one as we discuss the 1954 epic Seven Samurai.



Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Seven Samurai (1954)
Director: Akira Kurosawa]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43636767Tue, 02 Mar 2021 22:41:46 +0000Maximus NetworkIt's about to get serious. We could not call ourselves "film nuts" without bringing this one up. It truly is a great cinematic masterpiece and the source of inspiration for an entire genre of films. It also has a bunch of samurai doing samurai...
It also has a bunch of samurai doing samurai stuff!

Prepare to get deep in the weeds on this one as we discuss the 1954 epic Seven Samurai.



Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Seven Samurai (1954)
Director: Akira Kurosawa]]>5094akira,cebula,five,joe,kurasawa,of,pod,rings,rob,rowland,samurai,seven,thefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-2-big-trouble-in-little-china--43561037
Big Trouble in Little China is about as fun as a film gets. Today we will talk about the blending of cultures, the mysticism of martial arts, and how this is a Hollywood film that gets Hong Kong right.

Don't miss this episode of The Pod of Five Rings!

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Big Trouble in Little China (1986)
Director: John Carpenter]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43561037Sat, 20 Feb 2021 19:21:47 +0000Maximus NetworkEverybody relax. We're here. Big Trouble in Little China is about as fun as a film gets. Today we will talk about the blending of cultures, the mysticism of martial arts, and how this is a Hollywood film that gets Hong Kong right. Don't miss this...
Big Trouble in Little China is about as fun as a film gets. Today we will talk about the blending of cultures, the mysticism of martial arts, and how this is a Hollywood film that gets Hong Kong right.

Don't miss this episode of The Pod of Five Rings!

Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Big Trouble in Little China (1986)
Director: John Carpenter]]>3855big trouble in little china,cinema,film,joe cebula,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five ringsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pod-of-five-rings-ep-1-wheels-on-meals--43407524
Follow Rob Rowland @rock.n.rowland

Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Wheels on Meals (1984)
Dir: Samo Hung]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43407524Thu, 11 Feb 2021 21:00:38 +0000Maximus NetworkWelcome to the very 1st episode of The Pod of Five Rings. Today we will introduce ourselves and then dive headfirst into a Jackie Chan flick: Wheels on Meals (1984). You can't really talk about martial arts in film without bringing him up so we'll...
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Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Wheels on Meals (1984)
Dir: Samo Hung]]>3700film,film reviews,jackie chan,joe cebula,martial arts,rob rowland,the pod of five rings,wheels on mealstruefull