A master assassin. A deadly apprentice. And two generations of contract killers facing off.

In this episode of Mart and Trev’s The Deja Review, we enter the world of professional assassins to compare the gritty action thriller The Mechanic, starring Charles Bronson, with the high-octane reboot The Mechanic, starring Jason Statham.

The 1972 original became a cult favourite thanks to its cold, methodical approach to assassination, its tense mentor-student relationship, and Charles Bronson's understated performance as Arthur Bishop. Nearly forty years later, the 2011 remake reimagined the story with bigger action sequences, explosive set pieces, and a modern action-thriller style while retaining the core story of a hitman training the son of a former friend.

Mart and Trev break down the assassinations, the action scenes, the mentor-apprentice dynamic, and the biggest differences between the two films, asking whether the remake improves the formula or if the original still completes the contract with greater precision.

Does the 1972 classic still execute the perfect hit…

or does the 2011 reboot get the job done?

No witnesses. No mistakes. No second chances.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ @LittleFoilFish ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ @TheDejaReview

00:00 Introduction to the Deja Review Podcast

01:53 Exploring the Original Mechanic (1972)

14:56 Diving into the Remake of Mechanic (2011)

20:05 Comparing the Performances of Bronson and Statham

20:58 Discussion on Supporting Characters and Their Impact

27:41 5 to 1 - Jason Statham

42:38 Final Thoughts and Dishonorable Mentions

#themechanic #charlesbronson #jasonstatham #actionmovies #AssassinMovies #movieremakes #cultmovies #thedejareview #actioncinema #martandtrev #5to1

Forty years ago, a young filmmaker named James Cameron took one of the greatest horror films ever made and transformed it into one of the greatest action movies of all time.

Two years ago, Mart and Trev launched The Deja Review.

Now, those anniversaries collide in our biggest special episode yet.

To celebrate the 2nd Anniversary of The Deja Review and the 40th Anniversary of Aliens, Mart and Trev take a deep dive into the making of the legendary sci-fi action masterpiece that changed cinema forever.

From the tense production at Pinewood Studios and the famous clashes between James Cameron and the British crew, to the groundbreaking creature effects by Stan Winston, the unforgettable performances of Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Lance Henriksen and the rest of the Colonial Marines, this feature-length documentary explores how Aliens went from a risky sequel to one of the most influential films ever made.

We'll uncover:

The origins of the sequel

The casting of the Colonial Marines

Behind-the-scenes production stories

The famous "Tea Trolley Mutiny"

The creation of the Alien Queen

Deleted scenes and alternate ideas

The film's legacy across movies, gaming and popular culture

Why Aliens remains the gold standard for action sequels 40 years later

Whether you're a lifelong fan of LV-426 or discovering the film for the first time, this special celebration looks back at the movie that gave us pulse rifles, power loaders, facehuggers, xenomorphs, and some of the most quotable lines in movie history.

Game over, man? Not even close.

Join Mart and Trev as we celebrate 40 years of Aliens and 2 years of The Deja Review.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ @LittleFoilFish ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ @TheDejaReview

Share in the Comments. What's your favourite moment from Aliens?

🚀 "Express Elevator to Hell?"

👑 The Alien Queen?

🤖 "Get away from her, you bitch!"

💀 Hudson's meltdown?

🔥 Or something else entirely?

00:00 Celebrating Two Years of Deja Review

01:58 Exploring the Film 'Aliens'

02:57 The Impact of 'Aliens' on the Franchise

05:49 Character Development and Ripley's Role

09:44 Behind the Scenes: Casting and Production Challenges

13:07 Design Changes and Visual Effects

17:20 On-Set Dynamics and Directorial Challenges

21:41 The Legacy of 'Aliens' and Its Cultural Impact

30:44 Character Development and Training in Alien Films

33:34 The Impact of Alien 3 on Character Arcs

36:58 The Cast's Journey and Career Paths

40:51 Special Editions vs. Original Releases

46:39 The Evolution of Alien Technology and Effects

52:57 The Future of the Alien Franchise

#aliens #Aliens40 #aliensmovie #Aliens1986 #jamescameron #sigourneyweaver #billpaxton #lancehenriksen #xenomorph #alienqueen #colonialmarines #SciFiMovies #MovieDocumentary #thedejareview #podcast #moviepodcast #filmhistory #behindthescenes #martandtrev

A luxury cruise down the Nile. A cast full of suspects. And one of Agatha Christie’s most famous mysteries… told twice.

In this episode of Mart and Trev’s The Deja Review, we set sail on the River Nile to compare the classic whodunit Death on the Nile, starring Peter Ustinov as the brilliant Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, with the modern adaptation Death on the Nile, directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh.

Based on the bestselling novel by Agatha Christie, both films follow Poirot as he investigates a shocking murder aboard a glamorous river cruise through Egypt. The 1978 version became a mystery classic with its all-star cast and traditional detective storytelling, while the 2022 adaptation brings lavish visuals, expanded character backstories, and a modern blockbuster approach to the famous tale.

Mart and Trev break down the suspects, the clues, the performances, the Egyptian setting, and the biggest differences between the films, asking whether the remake uncovers new treasures or if the original still solves the mystery best.

Does the 1978 classic still reign supreme on the Nile…

or does the 2022 remake crack the case?

Everyone is a suspect. Nobody is innocent.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ @LittleFoilFish ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ @TheDejaReview

00:00 Introduction to Death on the Nile

03:02 Comparing the Original and the Remake

06:00 Character Dynamics and Changes

08:55 Controversies Surrounding the Remake

11:46 Character Amalgamation and Development

15:06 Plot Differences and Realism

17:56 Final Thoughts on the Films

25:05 The Legacy of Poirot: Ustinov vs. Finney

28:27 Cinematic Techniques: CGI vs. Authenticity

30:51 Character Depth: Comparing Performances in Remakes

33:44 Nostalgia and Originality: The Impact of COVID on Filmmaking

39:36 5 to 1: Dame Maggie Smith

#deathonthenile #agathachristie #herculepoirot #kennethbranagh #PeterUstinov #murdermystery #whodunit #movieremakes #TheDejaReview #5to1 #martandtrev

What happens after death? And was this remake worth bringing back to life?

In this episode of Mart and Trev’s The Deja Review, we explore the terrifying world between life and death by comparing the psychological sci-fi thriller Flatliners, starring Kiefer Sutherland, Julia Roberts, and Kevin Bacon, with the modern reboot Flatliners, starring Elliot Page, Diego Luna and Kiefer Sutherland.

The 1990 original became a cult favourite thanks to its stylish visuals, eerie atmosphere, and chilling premise: medical students deliberately stopping their hearts to experience the afterlife. Nearly thirty years later, the 2017 reboot attempted to revive the concept with modern horror elements, updated visual effects, and a new generation of students pushing the experiment too far.

Mart and Trev break down the near-death experiments, the hallucinations, the horror elements, and the biggest differences between the films, asking whether the reboot improves the concept or if the original still has the strongest pulse.

Does the 1990 classic still hold the key to the afterlife…

or does the 2017 reboot shock the concept back to life?

Some experiments should stay dead.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ @LittleFoilFish ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ @TheDejaReview

00:00 Introduction and Background on Flatliners

01:49 Exploring the Themes and Characters

10:15 Style vs. Substance in Flatliners

16:52 The 2017 Remake: A New Perspective

24:36 Character Development and Motivations

27:00 Character Development and Storytelling in Flatliners

30:22 Comparing Original and Remake: A Balanced Perspective

31:48 Cast Dynamics: Star Power vs. Character Depth

33:26 5 to 1: Kiefer Sutherland

53:59 Closing Thoughts and Future Discussions

#Flatliners #Flatliners1990 #Flatliners2017 #psychologicalthriller #horrormovies #scifimovies #movieremakes #cultmovies #thedejareview #martandtrev #kiefersutherland #juliaroberts #kevinbacon #elliotpage #diegoluna #ninadobrev #jamesnorton #5to1

One barcode. Endless body count. And two attempts to bring Agent 47 to the big screen.

In this episode of Mart and Trev’s The Deja Review, we step into the world of assassinations and silent kills to compare Hitman, starring Timothy Olyphant as the deadly Agent 47, with the reboot Hitman: Agent 47, starring Rupert Friend.

Based on the legendary video game series, both films attempt to capture the cold precision, stealth action, and globe-trotting assassin missions that made Agent 47 one of gaming’s most iconic characters. The 2007 version leaned into gritty action-thriller territory, while the 2015 reboot pushed the franchise further into high-tech sci-fi action.

Mart and Trev break down the action scenes, the assassinations, the faithfulness to the games, and the biggest differences between the films, asking whether either adaptation truly captures what makes Hitman work… or if Agent 47 deserves another contract.

Does the 2007 original complete the mission…

or does the 2015 reboot execute the concept better?

Targets acquired. Debate initiated.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ ⁨@LittleFoilFish⁩ ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ ⁨@TheDejaReview⁩

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Deja Review

01:20 Overview of Hitman (2007)

10:33 Character Analysis and Comparisons

17:23 Plot Complexity and Storytelling Issues

20:07 Transition to Hitman: Agent 47 (2015)

21:36 Character Portrayal in the Remake

25:29 Visuals and Audio in Agent 47

27:25 Visual Storytelling: The Impact of Colour and Tone

29:46 Character Focus: Shifting Perspectives in Hitman Films

31:44 Action vs. Mystery: The Essence of Agent 47

33:40 Style and Substance: Balancing Aesthetics with Story

35:55 Character Comparisons: Timothy Oliphant vs. Rupert Friend

37:47 Film Remakes: Analysing Hitman and Its Sequel

39:03 5 to 1: Timothy Olyphant

#hitman #agent47 #HitmanAgent47 #VideoGameMovies #actionmovies #movieremakes #gamingmovies #thedejareview #martandtrev #originalvsremake

5 to 1: a fast, feisty countdown where Mart and Trev rank the best, roast the rest, and battle to their personal number-ones both good and bad.

This episode of The Deja Review – 5 to 1 is a little different… because Mart & Trev are joined by special guest Little_Foil_Fish. (Yes, that's the guy who created our theme tune.)

Instead of the usual picks, we hand over the reins as Little_Foil_Fish brings their own 5-to-1 movie choices — counting down five great films and one that just doesn’t quite make the cut. Expect surprises, bold opinions, and maybe even a few controversial takes as we dive into their personal favourites.

From cult classics and hidden gems to blockbuster hits and unexpected curveballs, this episode is packed with movie recommendations, film debates, and plenty of Deja Review banter as Mart & Trev react to every pick.

But because this is The Deja Review, there’s always a twist… and yes, we’ll be finding out which movie lands firmly at the bottom of the list.

If you’re looking for new movies to watch, underrated film picks, and passionate movie discussion, this episode is for you.

Do you agree with Little_Foil_Fish’s choices — or would your list look completely different? Drop your 5-to-1 in the comments!

(5 great picks… 1 that misses the mark.)

Little_Foil_Fish:

London Tour 2026 (VENUE CHANGES)

Harrison Venue - 28 Harrison Street, London WC1H 8DT - 13th May

Fabwick - Queen's Yard, London E9 5EN - 14th May

Biddle Bros. - 88 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5 0QR - 15th May

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ @LittleFoilFish

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ @TheDejaReview

#LittleFoilFish #5to1 #movieranking #top5movies #filmdiscussion #moviepodcast #filmpodcast #moviefans #cinemafans #movietalk #Entertainment #thedejareview #martandtrev #popculture #cultmovies #hiddengems #moviedebate #filmcommunity #unsignedartist #independentmusic #electronica

Seven wishes. One deal with the devil. And two very different takes on Bedazzled.

In this episode of Mart and Trev’s The Deja Review, we sell our souls (temporarily…) to compare the original comedy classic Bedazzled, starring Dudley Moore and Peter Cook, with the modern remake Bedazzled, starring Brendan Fraser and Elizabeth Hurley.

The 1967 original became a cult favourite with its clever British humour, surreal wish scenarios, and iconic performances. Decades later, the 2000 remake reimagined the story with a Hollywood twist, bigger comedy set pieces, and a series of outrageous wish-based transformations.

Mart and Trev break down the wish scenarios, the comedy styles, the performances, and the biggest differences between the two films, asking whether the remake improves the deal… or if the original still has the better bargain.

Does the 1967 classic still grant the best wishes…

or does the 2000 remake make a better deal with the devil?

Be careful what you wish for… the debate begins.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ ⁨@LittleFoilFish⁩ ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ ⁨@TheDejaReview⁩

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deja Review

00:58 Exploring the Original Bedazzled

12:59 Transition to the Remake of Bedazzled

13:55 Analysing the 2000 Remake of Bedazzled

23:45 The Final Wish for Alison

24:00 Remake vs Original: A Satisfying Conclusion

25:00 Character Depth: Dudley Moore vs Brendan Fraser

25:50 Devilish Performances: Peter Cook vs Elizabeth Hurley

26:55 Remake Reflections: Was It Necessary?

28:02 Future of the Franchise: More Remakes Ahead?

28:59 5 to 1: Brendan Fraser

#bedazzled #brendanfraser #ElizabethHurley #comedymovie #petercook #dudleymoore #movieremakes #classiccomedy #fantasycomedy #thedejareview #martandtrev

Slow zombies… fast zombies… and one of the greatest horror remake debates of all time.

In this episode of The Deja Review, we head into the zombie apocalypse to compare the legendary horror classic Dawn of the Dead, directed by George A. Romero, with the high-intensity remake Dawn of the Dead, directed by Zack Snyder.

The 1978 original became one of the most influential zombie films ever made, blending horror, social commentary, and unforgettable moments inside a shopping mall overrun by the undead. Decades later, the 2004 remake reimagined the story with fast-moving zombies, relentless action, and a modern take on survival horror.

Mart and Trev break down the zombies, the scares, the action, the social themes, and the biggest differences between the two films, asking whether the remake improves the formula or if the original still stands as the ultimate zombie classic.

Do the slow zombies still rule the apocalypse…

or do the fast zombies take over?

When there’s no more room in hell… the debate begins.

Two long time friends, one podcast.

This is The Deja Review.

Enjoy the episode and remember to like, follow and tell your friends.

As always a massive thank you to Little Foil Fish for our theme tune - ⁠ ⁨@LittleFoilFish⁩ ⁠

Mart & Trev

Subscribe to the Podcast - ⁠ ⁨@TheDejaReview⁩

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deja Review

00:47 Exploring Dawn of the Dead

03:10 The Impact of George A. Romero

06:18 Special Effects and Tom Savini's Influence

09:13 Character Analysis and Development

12:11 Pacing and Storytelling in Dawn of the Dead

15:00 Comparing the Original and the Remake

17:58 Final Thoughts on the Film and Its Legacy

33:33 Cameos and Character Development

36:00 Character Dynamics and Subtle Themes

39:55 Inconsistencies in Zombie Transformation

42:19 Comparative Analysis of Remakes

45:00 Open Endings and Sequel Potential

48:04Technical Aspects and Plot Holes

50:00 Which One Wins?

52:38 5 to 1: Matt Frewer

#dawnofthedead #zombiemovies #georgeromero #zacksnyder #horrormovies #zombieapocalypse #movieremakes #thedejareview #martandtrev