Stream Warriors: March 10, 2023
Each week, Neon Splatter contributors offer up some viewing options found on streaming (U.S. unless otherwise noted). Movies, TV shows, specials, and more. New and old, from all sorts of genres and nations. Most importantly, we deem them worthy of your time.
Rob Dean: Rifftrax: HONOR AND GLORY
What It Is: The story, as far as we can tell: two sisters, one an FBI agent (played by martial arts World Champion Cynthia Rothrock), the other a news reporter, both of whom are really into kicking and punching—don’t worry, they go out of their way to clarify which sister is Honor and which one is Glory—are out to take down the villainous Jason Slade. Jason Slade is the richest, most powerful man in the world, despite the fact he looks like a buff 14-year-old and does business from an office that an HR manager at a regional bottling plant would find insultingly small. On his side is the world’s greatest bodyguard, who is such a blatant imitation of Beverly Hills Cop-era Eddie Murphy you’ll find yourself waiting for that song to kick in every time he’s on screen.
Where It Is: Tubi
Why You Should Watch It: “If you like MST3K but haven’t checked out Rifftrax yet, I cannot recommend it enough. This particular riff is made so much better by the fact that Godfrey Ho’s insane action movie is a ton of fun as well.”
Alexis M. Collazo: The Last Kingdom (2015 - 2022)
What It Is: As Alfred the Great defends his kingdom from Norse invaders, Uhtred--born a Saxon but raised by Vikings--seeks to claim his ancestral birthright.
Where It Is: Netflix
Why You Should Watch It: “I'm a sucker for anything related to Vikings, it doesn't matter how historically inaccurate it may be. The truth is not likely as entertaining as watching Uhtred bed hop between epic battles.”
Jeremy Lowe: SMILE (2022)
What It Is: After witnessing a bizarre, traumatic incident involving a patient, a psychiatrist becomes increasingly convinced she is being threatened by an uncanny entity.
Where It Is: Prime Video
Why You Should Watch It: “I had no interest in this movie when it was in the theater, mainly because the trailer looked pretty typical. Glad I checked it out now that it's streaming. SMILE is a very smart, beautifully shot, and a scary as hell allegory for the transference of trauma, and how all consuming it can be. Stylistically this film reminded me a lot of THE RING (2002), IT FOLLOWS, and THE BABADOOK. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!”
Kiley Fox: TO WONG FOO, THANKS FOR EVERYTHING! JULIE NEWMAR (1995)
What It Is: Three drag queens travel cross-country until their car breaks down, leaving them stranded in a small town.
Where It Is: Tubi
Why You Should Watch It: “There was a time long ago when the country was making some progress and even the "super macho" A-List stars could do drag on screen, and do it well.
This movie shows its age in some areas, but is timeless in its theme of accepting others and most importantly accepting and embracing yourself. Stockard Channing is radiant in this, and I wish Miss Vida were my bestie. If you haven't seen it, now is the time. Consider it an act of rebellion against bigots and hate.”