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Can fan service ruin an otherwise brilliant film? Join me, Stephen, as I tackle this contentious question on today's episode of Infinite Prattle. We're diving headfirst into the highly anticipated Alien Romulus, where I share my complex feelings after watching it in theaters for the first time. While the film dazzled visually, especially in IMAX, it left me grappling with its over-reliance on fan service and recycled ideas like the infamous Black Goo. Hear my personal journey with the Alien franchise and why Alien Romulus was a watershed moment for me.

Nostalgia meets critique in the next segment, where we dissect a classic sci-fi film's immersive world-building and chaotic storyline. Recall the nerve-wracking moments at the Renaissance Station with cryo units on the fritz and facehuggers on the prowl. I weigh the film's balance between homage to the original series and its plot development, shining a light on the tension-filled scenes that left me on the edge of my seat. This segment opens the floor to a thoughtful reflection on how storytelling adapts and evolves.

Lastly, we dive into the intricacies of Alien franchise, highlighting the tension among characters and the thematic depth of the Black Goo. I compare Disney's approach to rebooting this beloved series with their handling of Star Wars, pondering if they managed to captivate both new and hardcore fans. From zero-gravity scenes to iconic one-liners, I scrutinise what worked and what didn't, offering my perspective on the franchise's future, including the much-anticipated TV series. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with insights, criticisms, and a look ahead at where the Alien saga might take us next.

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Growing up with James Bond films as weekend TV staples, I, Stephen, found myself captivated by the world of espionage, gadgets, and suave sophistication. This episode of Infinite Prattle takes you through my childhood memories associated with the series, including my controversial pick for the best Bond—yes, I said ***************! I'll also dispel the common myth that only six actors portrayed Bond, revealing the overlooked seventh. From Sean Connery's groundbreaking debut in "Dr. No" to the impact of release patterns on our viewing experiences, this episode is a nostalgic trip down 007 lane.

Join me as I spontaneously rank the various actors who suited up as James Bond, examining Roger Moore's campy charm, Timothy Dalton's gritty realism, and Pierce Brosnan's action-packed flair. I shed light on the often-forgotten transitional periods, like the six-year hiatus before Brosnan took over in 1995, and reflect on Daniel Craig's intense and modern take on the iconic role. Whether you're a die-hard Bond fan or just discovering the franchise, this episode promises a comprehensive and personal exploration of what makes Bond, James Bond, the ultimate spy legend.

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Ever wonder if today's Gen Z is getting the same hands-on culinary education we did growing up? Reflecting on my childhood, I share cherished memories of learning to cook with my mum, where her practical kitchen philosophy—help out or stay out of the way—instilled in me essential cooking skills and an enduring passion for the kitchen. From the mastery of a simple bechamel sauce to the foundational lessons that shaped my culinary journey, these moments with my mum were more than just about food; they were about life skills passed down through generations.

But cooking wasn't the only invaluable skill I learned from my parents. In this episode, we also explore the broader spectrum of essential life skills my family imparted, such as sewing and financial management. Recounting the frustrations and triumphs of school cooking classes and the pride of making a chicken cobbler at a young age, I highlight the importance of these foundational lessons. Whether it's mending socks or managing money wisely, these skills have enduring significance that we must continue to pass on to the next generation. Join me for a nostalgic journey that underscores the lasting impact of parental wisdom.

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Ever wonder how those Saturday morning chores and the pocket money you earned as a kid have shaped the person you are today? Join me on Infinite Prattle as I recount my own childhood experiences growing up in a semi-detached house in the UK. From the meticulous yet sometimes inconsistent way I tidied and organised my room to the broader socio-economic context of my upbringing, I explore how early family responsibilities and dynamics can leave lasting imprints on our adult lives. Listen to personal anecdotes that reveal the mix of enjoyment and resentment that chores brought, and learn how they influenced my approach to tidiness and task management today.

As we continue, let's take a nostalgic journey back to our childhood gifts and consider their present-day equivalents. I'll compare the cost of a second-hand Game Gear from 1993 to the iPads of today, using an inflation calculator for some eye-opening insights. Reflect on how gifting and spending have evolved, and hear my own stories about doing chores for pocket money and receiving technology as presents.

We’ll also touch on the impact of modern technology on both children and adults, and I share some thoughts on maintaining engagement through social media, contrasting past and present expectations and responsibilities. Don't miss this episode for a heartfelt look at how our childhood experiences shape us.

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Ever wondered what makes the ultimate superhero? Let's imagine blending the best traits of Wolverine, Superman, and Cyclops to create an unbeatable force!

What if you could have any superpower you desire? Join me as we explore the exhilarating world of superhuman abilities, from classics like invisibility and flight to the unique powers of Marvel icons such as Spider-Man and Wolverine. I reflect on why Marvel heroes resonate more with me than their DC counterparts.

I also share some personal news about my latest ride—a shiny new motorcycle! [Will share more in a future episode no doubt!] Plus, changes to my podcast episode naming convention, all while I navigate us through the thrilling possibilities of wielding superpowers! I also ponder practical yet mundane superpowers like rapid laundry folding we dive into the whimsical world of superpowers. And of course, we can't forget the timeless wisdom from Uncle Ben about the balance between power and responsibility. Tune in for a fun, thought-provoking episode that promises to leave you entertained and dreaming up your own superpower fantasies.

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Imagine being stranded on a desert island with only five albums to keep you company—what would you choose? Join me on this episode of Infinite Prattle as I reveal my top five Desert Island discs, starting with the game-changing "Bat Out of Hell" by Meatloaf and Jim Steinman. Discover the magic behind its record-breaking chart success and hear why the humorous intro to "You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth" has only gotten better with age. These albums aren't just music; they're milestones, memories, and moments that defined my life, and I promise you’ll look at your own favorites in a new light.

Continuing our musical journey, we’ll explore the emotional landscapes of Counting Crows' "August and Everything After," where songs like "Round Here" and "A Murder of One" bring raw, powerful performances into focus. Feel the nostalgia and significance of Michael Jackson's "History: Past, Present and Future, Book I," which not only compiles his greatest hits but also introduces fresh tracks that stand the test of time. With shoutouts to other influential artists like Train, Bruce Springstein, Elton John, Prince, and the Goo Goo Dolls, this episode is a celebration of exceptional songwriting and the deep personal connections that music forges. Tune in and let's relive the magic together!

*All album Art owned by respected artist/label shown for illustrative purposes only.

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to merge unscripted chatter with deeply under researched content? (I jest!)
Welcome to Season 5 of Infinite Prattle! Which promises a rich mix of spontaneous discussions and insightful topics. We are going to talk about everything from personal heroes to fascinating what-if scenarios. Plus, I've introduced a new feature that lets you send feedback via text message, making it easier than ever to engage and share your thoughts.

Join me on this first episode of season 5, as I share my thoughts on "Alien Romulus," the highly anticipated film directed by Fede Alvarez. Disney's promotional campaign has been nothing short of spectacular, and I'll dive into why this film has the fan base buzzing. You'll hear my take on why Alvarez's previous works like "Don't Breathe" and the "Evil Dead" remake possibly make him the ideal choice as director, as well as my mixed feelings about Ridley Scott's endorsement. From speculating on the plot to discussing the intriguing rumour about the return of the iconic "Big Chap" alien, there's a lot to be excited about.

Lastly, let's talk about the upcoming Alien TV show, rumored to be set on Earth before the original film. Could it adapt the Earth Hive storyline? We'll explore the possibilities and the legalities now that Disney owns the franchise. Reflecting on past Alien films and the new wave of novels and comics, I share my high hopes for Fede Alvarez's Alien Romulus to breathe new life into the series. And of course, your participation is key—I'm inviting you to suggest topics or even become a guest on the podcast. Thanks for being part of the Infinite Prattle community; your support means the world to me!

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Can a few seconds of internet fame change your life forever? This week on Infinite Prattle, we dissect the whirlwind world of viral videos and social media trends. From the Harlem Shake to the latest TikTok phenomena, we explore how these sensational moments shape our culture and language. Join me as we question whether the benefits of going viral outweigh the chaos it often brings, all while seeking your thoughts on the podcast’s direction.

Sudden internet stardom: a dream come true or a nightmare in disguise? In this episode, we navigate the highs and lows of viral fame, weighing the options between capitalising on newfound attention or retreating to privacy. Using examples from internet stars like Khaby Lame, we discuss strategic choices to manage the spotlight, especially when virality isn't all sunshine and roses. Engage with us for a candid discussion on the unpredictable nature of viral content and the intricate balance of leveraging fleeting fame for long-term success.

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