Geek Freaks Headlines

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, we cover the long-awaited update on the Hot Wheels live-action movie. After years of silence, Mattel and Warner Bros have finally revealed that Jon M. Chu (Wicked, Crazy Rich Asians) will direct the film. We break down what this means for the project, who's involved creatively, and why this might not be the Fast & Furious knockoff you expect. With a serious creative team and Mattel’s recent hot streak, this might be the next big toy-to-film win.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 – Hot Wheels movie finally gets an update after years of silence00:13 – Jon M. Chu announced as director00:17 – Why Chu’s involvement signals Mattel is taking this seriously00:23 – Writers Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier (Creed II, They Cloned Tyrone) join the project00:28 – Full production team includes Bad Robot and Electric Somewhere00:35 – Movie was first announced in 202200:36 – Now that the creative team is in place, casting is next00:45 – Mattel’s other movie projects include Barbie 2, Polly Pocket, UNO, and Whac-A-Mole00:50 – Why the success of Barbie makes us cautiously optimistic for Hot WheelsKey Takeaways:Jon M. Chu directing shows Mattel is aiming high for the Hot Wheels movieWriters Taylor and Rettenmaier bring credibility from action and sci-fi projectsProject has been slow-moving since its 2022 announcementNow that the creative team is in place, casting news is expected nextMattel is expanding its movie universe following the success of BarbieEven projects like Whac-A-Mole and UNO are on Mattel’s radarMemorable Quotes:“When you hear live action Hot Wheels, you're thinking a knockoff Fast & Furious movie—but Jon might not go in that direction.”“Mattel’s taking this seriously, and that’s good to know.”“I didn’t think the Barbie movie would work, and this is where we’re at right now.”Call to Action:Love what you're hearing? Make sure to subscribe to Geek Freaks Headlines, leave us a review, and share the episode using #GeekFreaksPod. Head to GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest news we discuss on the show.Follow Us:📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/geekfreakspod🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast🎧 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:Have thoughts on the Hot Wheels movie or Mattel’s growing film lineup? Let us know on socials or email us at questions@geekfreakspodcast.com. We might feature your comment in an upcoming episode!Apple Podcast Tags:Geek culture, Hot Wheels, Mattel movies, Jon M. Chu, toy movies, movie news, Warner Bros, Creed II, They Cloned Tyrone, Barbie, live action films, entertainment news, pop culture podcast, Geek Freaks Headlines

7 Jul 57s

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, we break down TikTok’s bold move to create a new U.S.-only app ahead of a possible sale. With a September 5th launch date and a March 26th shutdown of the current version, U.S. users are being asked to make a major transition. We talk about the reasons behind the change, what it means for your algorithm, and how competitors like YouTube Shorts are stepping up to the plate. Whether you're a creator or a casual scroller, here's everything you need to prepare for the migration.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 – TikTok’s new U.S. app launching September 500:15 – ByteDance pressured by U.S. government to sell00:35 – How this impacts your algorithm and For You Page00:58 – Timeline exhaustion and the relief of clarity01:15 – YouTube Shorts gaining ground as a TikTok alternativeKey Takeaways:TikTok will launch a new app for U.S. users on September 5The current app will be shut down on March 26This move is in response to the U.S. government’s pressure on ByteDance to sellUsers will likely need to retrain their TikTok algorithmYouTube Shorts has now surpassed TikTok in daily U.S. users and offers longer video lengthsMemorable Quotes:🗣 “You might have to basically rebuild your algorithm from scratch.”🗣 “One of our favorite apps is here to stay… for now.”🗣 “YouTube Shorts actually just surpassed TikTok in daily users.”Call to Action:If you enjoyed this update, be sure to follow Geek Freaks Headlines for your daily rundown of what’s happening in geek culture and tech. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast.Links and Resources:📰 All news from this episode can be found at GeekFreaksPodcast.comFollow Us:📱Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast🐦Twitter: @geekfreakspod📘Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast🧵Threads: @geekfreakspodcast💬 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:Got questions or thoughts on TikTok’s app shift? Want us to dig deeper into tech and media news? Send them our way and you might be featured in a future episode!Apple Podcast Tags:TikTok, ByteDance, YouTube Shorts, social media trends, tech news, algorithm tips, TikTok shutdown, digital migration, U.S. tech policy, Geek Freaks Headlines

6 Jul 1min

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, we break down the big shift in leadership behind HBO’s The Last of Us. Co-creator Neil Druckmann is stepping away from the series ahead of Season 3 to focus on Naughty Dog’s next big game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. With Craig Mazin now the sole showrunner, what does this mean for the show’s future? We share thoughts on how this could affect the storytelling, audience reception, and Season 3’s uphill battle without Pedro Pascal and with Abby taking center stage.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Introduction and headline00:03 Neil Druckmann steps down from The Last of Us00:10 Craig Mazin becomes sole showrunner00:18 Druckmann’s continued role as executive producer00:25 Concerns over creative direction and Season 3 tone00:35 Audience challenges: No Pedro Pascal and Abby’s role00:45 What to watch for as production beginsKey Takeaways:Neil Druckmann is stepping away from The Last of Us series before Season 3 production.Druckmann will remain on paper as executive producer and co-creator but won’t contribute creatively.Craig Mazin will take over as the sole showrunner moving forward.Druckmann is refocusing his efforts on developing Naughty Dog’s upcoming title Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.Season 3 may be harder to market with Pedro Pascal likely not returning and Abby taking a lead role.The tone and direction of the show could shift significantly without Druckmann’s involvement.Quotes:“Season one was outstanding. Season two, a bit of a mixed bag.”“The highlights from season two were really pulled from the game.”“Season three will be difficult to advertise to people—no Pedro Pascal and Abby’s a big focus.”Call to Action:Love what you hear? Subscribe to Geek Freaks Headlines, leave us a review, and share the episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Stay tuned for weekly updates on all things geek!Links and Resources:Stay informed with our latest news at GeekFreaksPodcast.comFollow Us:Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcastInstagram: instagram.com/geekfreakspodcastThreads: threads.net/@geekfreakspodcastPatreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastTwitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspodListener Questions:Got thoughts on Druckmann leaving or predictions for Season 3? Send your comments and questions our way, and we might feature them in the next episode!Apple Podcast Tags:The Last of Us, Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin, Naughty Dog, HBO, video game adaptation, Intergalactic The Heretic Prophet, Pedro Pascal, Abby, Geek Freaks Headlines

4 Jul 1min

In this Geek Freaks Headlines episode, we break down the sweeping layoffs hitting Microsoft’s gaming division. Host Frank Lourence dives into the cancellation of major titles like Everwild and the Perfect Dark reboot, the studios impacted (including Bethesda’s London office), and why King and Blizzard are taking heavy hits. We also take a moment to reflect on how repeated layoffs are reshaping the industry, with 9,100 employees affected in this latest round. All info sourced from Polygon, IGN, and internal memos.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Microsoft lays off 9,100 employees, 4% of its workforce00:10 King reportedly hit hardest by the cuts00:18 Statement from Phil Spencer and industry-wide challenges00:23 Rare cancels Everwild, Perfect Dark reboot scrapped00:30 Bethesda London and Blizzard impacted00:36 Warcraft Rumble deprioritized00:41 A pattern of layoffs: January 2024, September 2024, May 202500:51 Closing thoughts and what's nextKey Takeaways:Microsoft has laid off 9,100 employees, with many from Xbox Game Studios.King, Rare, Blizzard, and Bethesda were among the hardest hit.Everwild and the Perfect Dark reboot have been cancelled.Warcraft Rumble is being shelved.This is one of several large rounds of layoffs Microsoft has done since early 2024.The gaming industry is in a precarious state, with restructuring happening across major publishers.Quotes:“Rare had to cancel their upcoming Everwild game. The Perfect Dark reboot is scrapped. That whole studio gone now.”“Blizzard... they’re going to be putting Warcraft Rumble on the backburner.”“We’re seeing these layoffs, and it’s hard times hitting across the entire gaming sector.”Call to Action:If you want to stay updated on major gaming industry changes like this one, make sure to subscribe to Geek Freaks Headlines. Leave us a review, share the episode, and join the conversation using #GeekFreaksPodcast.Links and Resources:News Source: https://geekfreakspodcast.comFollow Us:📌 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast📌 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast📌 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast📌 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast📌 Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspodListener Questions:We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on these cuts? How do you think this will impact the future of Xbox and its studios? Send us your questions and we might feature them in our next episode.Apple Podcast Tags:Xbox, Microsoft layoffs, Perfect Dark, Everwild, Blizzard, Warcraft Rumble, gaming news, game development, tech layoffs, Geek Freaks Headlines, video game industry, Bethesda, King Studios, Phil Spencer, Rare Games, canceled games, 2025 gaming news, Xbox Game Studios, podcast

4 Jul 1min

Episode SummaryIn this quick-hit episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, Frank breaks down the top TV shows arriving in July 2025. From long-awaited finales to nostalgic comebacks, this month is packed. We cover The Sandman’s two-part final season, the return of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, the buzz around Foundation season 3, the beloved Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the comeback of South Park, and Frank's second shot at Twisted Metal. Whether you're a sci-fi fan, animation junkie, or comedy nerd, there's something here for you.00:00 July’s TV preview kickoff00:03 The Sandman (Netflix) final season starts July 300:15 It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia returns July 9 (FX and Hulu)00:25 Foundation season 3 premieres July 11 (Apple TV Plus)00:34 Star Trek: Strange New Worlds returns July 17 (Paramount Plus)00:52 South Park comes back July 23 (Comedy Central)01:04 Twisted Metal season 2 premieres July 31 (Peacock)01:18 Final thoughts and open call for any shows we missedThe Sandman is back with a two-part final season—first drop hits July 3It’s Always Sunny continues to be a must-watch after all these yearsFoundation season 3 is gaining buzz even among newcomersStar Trek: Strange New Worlds is a perfect entry point for Trek newcomersSouth Park returns after a long gap for many viewersTwisted Metal gets another shot with Anthony Mackie leading the wayFrank is open to more recommendations and will be covering movie releases next“Neil Gaiman really put a bad taste in our mouth, but I gotta finish the story.”“If you’re new to Star Trek... Strange New Worlds is beautiful. Good story. Great cast.”“Not a huge fan of [Twisted Metal], but I played the hell out of that as a kid... I gotta get back in.”Love what you're hearing? Don’t forget to subscribe to Geek Freaks Headlines on your favorite podcast platform. Leave a review to help other geeks find the show, and share the episode with your friends using #GeekFreaksPod.📰 All our geek news comes from: https://GeekFreaksPodcast.com📱 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: @geekfreakspod📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast💬 Threads: threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastThink we missed a July release? Let us know! Message us on social or email your picks and we might include them in the next update.Apple Podcast Tags:TV shows, streaming July 2025, Sandman Netflix, Star Trek Strange New Worlds, South Park new season, Twisted Metal Peacock, Foundation Apple TV, Always Sunny FXX, Geek Freaks Podcast, geek culture news, summer shows 2025, what to watchTimestamps and TopicsKey TakeawaysMemorable QuotesCall to ActionLinks and ResourcesFollow UsListener Questions

2 Jul 1min

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, Frank taps into millennial nostalgia with news that the original 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie is returning to theaters for a special 35th anniversary screening. Scheduled for August 17 and 20 via Fathom Events, this re-release will also include a brand-new featurette titled Turtles Unmasked—featuring never-before-seen archival footage, deleted scenes, and commentary from director Steve Barron. Frank reflects on what this movie meant growing up and floats the idea of making retro re-releases a regular thing.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Nostalgia alert: TMNT '90 returns to theaters00:10 Anniversary screening dates and special featurette00:20 Frank compares TMNT to other ’90s classics like Hook00:30 Should retro movie re-releases be a monthly tradition?Key Takeaways:Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) will hit theaters again on August 17 and 20.The screening includes a featurette called Turtles Unmasked with new archival content and director commentary.Frank sees this as part of a broader trend—and potential opportunity—for bringing ’90s movies back to theaters for modern audiences.Movies like Hook could be strong contenders for future re-releases.Memorable Quote:“Millennials. We got some sweet nostalgia coming our way.”Call to Action:Enjoying these quick-hit geek news updates? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode using the hashtag #GeekFreaksPodcast. Your support helps us keep bringing the news you care about.Links and Resources:News source: GeekFreaksPodcast.comFollow Us:Instagram: @geekfreakspodcastThreads: @geekfreakspodcastTwitter: @geekfreakspodFacebook: Geek Freaks PodcastPatreon: Support UsHave thoughts on retro movie re-releases? DM us or drop your picks on our socials—we want to hear from you!Apple Podcast Tags:Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, TMNT 1990, 90s Movies, Movie Re-release, Steve Barron, Fathom Events, Geek News, Movie Nostalgia, TMNT Anniversary, Geek Freaks Headlines

30 Jun 49s

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, we break down the rumored shortlist for the next James Bond, as reported by Variety. With Denis Villeneuve set to direct, the conversation is heating up around the potential actors who might take on the 007 mantle. We dive into the pros and cons of Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, and Tom Holland as the next Bond, weighing everything from star power to legacy, and even height.⏱️ Timestamps with Topics:00:00 Intro and Variety's report on the Bond shortlist00:13 The contenders: Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, and Tom Holland00:18 Tom Holland's star power and potential retirement from acting00:31 Jacob Elordi's Pierce Brosnan vibes and the challenges of casting a tall Bond00:47 The George Lazenby comparison and the risk of an Australian Bond01:23 Harris Dickinson’s rising fame and Daniel Craig-style energy01:55 Final thoughts on all three actors02:00 Who should be the next Bond?✅ Key Takeaways:Tom Holland is a box office draw but may not commit long-term.Jacob Elordi looks the part but faces hurdles with his height and non-UK origin.Harris Dickinson has the raw potential to grow into the Bond role, much like Daniel Craig.The franchise is at a critical pivot point, and casting the right Bond could redefine the next decade of films.💬 Memorable Quotes:“I’ll go watch any movie they just happen to have Tom Holland in. He’s fantastic.”“Jacob Elordi’s got a very Pierce Brosnan-esque Bond look—but he’s tall.”“Harris Dickinson reminds me more of Daniel Craig. This could be his breakout role.”📣 Call to Action:If you're a Bond fan or just love great casting debates, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your fellow film geeks using #GeekFreaksPod!🌐 Links and Resources:News source: https://geekfreakspodcast.com📲 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/geekfreakspodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/geekfreakspodThreads: https://www.threads.net/@geekfreakspodcastPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast💌 Listener Question:Who’s your pick for the next Bond and why? Let us know on social or email us at info@gfpods.com.🍏 Apple Podcast Tags:James Bond, Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, Denis Villeneuve, Bond 26, Variety, Geek Culture, Movie News, Casting News, Geek Freaks HeadlinesAsk ChatGPT

27 Jun 2min

In this episode of Geek Freaks Headlines, we break down the major news: Denis Villeneuve is officially directing the next James Bond film. Amazon Studios has confirmed not only his role as director but also as executive producer, signaling a bold new chapter for the franchise. We reflect on Villeneuve's signature style, from his sweeping visuals in Dune and Blade Runner 2049, and what that could mean for the tone and scale of Bond moving forward. It’s a serious pivot that could redefine 007 for the modern era. We also briefly discuss what fans can expect from a Villeneuve-led Bond and what it says about Amazon’s vision for the franchise.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Denis Villeneuve confirmed as Bond director and executive producer00:10 Villeneuve’s track record with large-scale films like Dune and Blade Runner 204900:18 What Villeneuve’s style could bring to the Bond universe00:30 Creative implications for the franchise and Amazon’s direction00:38 Personal thoughts on the choice and what it could mean long-termKey Takeaways:Amazon Studios has confirmed Denis Villeneuve as the director and executive producer for the next James Bond movie.Villeneuve’s reputation for crafting visually grand and narratively dense films positions the Bond franchise for a significant tonal and cinematic shift.This decision suggests Amazon is aiming for prestige-level blockbusters rather than formulaic spy thrillers.No writer has been announced yet, but Villeneuve's involvement already signals strong creative control.While some fans may have hoped for a more experimental director, this move prioritizes scale, ambition, and franchise longevity.Quotes:“Denis does not do things half measure… everything he does is on a very large scale.”“The choices that Denis Villeneuve will be making over the next couple of years will shape one of the biggest franchises in movie history.”“This is the kind of choice when you want to make sure a franchise is putting out blockbusters.”Call to Action:Don’t forget to subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast platform, leave us a rating or review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Your support helps us keep covering the biggest moments in geek culture.Links and Resources:📰 All our news and updates come from GeekFreaksPodcast.comFollow Us:📱 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast📷 Instagram: instagram.com/geekfreakspodcast💬 Threads: threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspod🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:What do you think of Denis Villeneuve stepping into the Bond director’s chair? Let us know on social or send your thoughts to us directly for a chance to be featured in a future episode!Apple Podcast Tags:James Bond, Denis Villeneuve, Amazon Studios, Dune, Blade Runner 2049, 007 reboot, Bond franchise, movie news, geek culture, film director

26 Jun 47s