Kris, a teacher and Marvel fanboy, and Dave, a freelance writer and DC fanatic, love to talk about their nerdy passions: comic books, movies and television, and video games. Each week, they discuss nerdy news, recommend new media, and take a deep dive into one niche in nerd culture. “The Nerd Byword” also features interviews with industry greats and up and coming talent. New episodes release every Monday.
Episodes
Tuesday May 21, 2024
Tuesday May 21, 2024
Ever wondered what it would be like if your favorite comic book characters lived entirely different lives? Welcome to episode 189 of The Nerd Byword, where we take a deep dive into the endless possibilities of the comic book multiverse. In this exclusive episode, we share six alternate universe story pitches that are bound to captivate your imagination.
Our journey begins with a twist on the familiar, as we re-imagine iconic characters in scenarios you've never seen before. From a heroic Joker to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles raised by their nemesis, we explore how these changes could shake up the worlds we thought we knew. And if that's not enough to pique your interest, we also discuss the latest nerd news, including Sony's struggles with their Spider-Man adjacent movie universe and the much-anticipated theatrical re-release of the extended and remastered versions of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Nerd News
Kraven the Hunter delayed...again
LOTR remastered and extended versions getting theatrical releases
Byword Big Talk
Alternate Universe Story Pitches
Nerd Commendations
Crisis on Infinite Earths Part 1 on Max
The Death of Doctor Strange by Jed MacKay & Lee Garbett
Chapters
(01:03) Sony's Kraven the Hunter movie has been delayed multiple times
(07:26) The Lord of the Rings is getting remastered versions on the big screen
(12:09) Alternate Universe Story Pitches
(50:32) Nerd Commendation: Crisis on Infinite Earths, Part 1 on Max
(55:42) Nerd Commendation: Death of Doctor Strange by Jed McKay
(59:06) Credits & Call to Action
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Have you ever watched a movie and thought, "I could fix that"? Well, that's exactly what we've done in the latest episode of The Nerd Byword. In episode 188, we're donning our capes and diving into the ambitious yet flawed 2006 film, Superman Returns.
We dissect what Superman Returns got right, where it went wrong, and how we'd tweak the script, cast, and direction to craft a film worthy of the iconic hero. From re-imagining Lex Luthor's diabolical scheme to redefining the dynamic between Lois and Clark, we explore every nook and cranny of this cinematic enigma.
Whether you're a die-hard Superman fan or just love a good film analysis, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and a deep love for the genre. So grab your popcorn and join us as we attempt to make Superman Returns take flight once again.
Nerd News
Retailers back off from physical media
Feige Reportedly Ordered the Death of Kamala Khan
Byword Big Talk
Nerd Commendations
The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made by David Hughes
Resurrection of Magneto by Al Ewing & Luciano Vecchio
Chapters
(00:43) Several retailers are backing off of physical media in favor of streaming
(10:11) Marvel recently resurrected Kamala Khan to make her a mutant
(22:33) Looking at 2006's Superman Returns
(01:29:00) Nerd Commendation: Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made
(01:33:17) Nerd Commendation: Resurrection of Magneto
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
The ocean is vast and mysterious, much like the journey of the DC Extended Universe, which finds its final chapter in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. The film, directed by James Wan, promises high-stakes adventure, stunning visuals, and the bittersweet farewell to a beloved cinematic universe. But does it deliver?
Whether you're a die-hard DCEU enthusiast or a casual moviegoer, our podcast offers an insightful and entertaining analysis of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Join us as we explore the depths of this cinematic experience and bid farewell to the DCEU.
Plus, the TMNT deliver a R-rated adaptation, Nintendo continues to strike out against Switch emulation, and brand-new nerd commendations!
Nerd News
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles delivers R-rated Last Ronin live-action adaptation.
Nintendo's relentless pursuit to wipe out Switch emulation
Byword Big Talk
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom - Does it sink or swim as the DCEU's swan song?
Nerd Commendations
Ultimate X-Men by Peach Momoko
Castle on Hulu
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) TMNT's R-rated future and Nintendo's emulation battle
(15:30) Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom - the good, the bad, and the bro-y
(56:05) Nerd Commendations: Ultimate X-Men and Castle
(01:07:40) Closing thoughts and Call to Action
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Are you ready for a journey through the final chapters of the Amalgam Universe? In this episode, we discuss the bittersweet end of an era and bid farewell to the unique blend of Marvel and DC's finest in Unlimited Access.
But it's not all about looking back. We also tackle some serious topics in the gaming community, including a troubling report from IGN. We dive into the latest superhero casting news that's got everyone talking: the Silver Surfer.
So, grab your headphones and join us on this epic adventure. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual listener, there's something for everyone in this episode.
Nerd News
Deck Nine Games' internal strife and the Life is Strange controversy
The Silver Surfer casting controversy and the future of the Fantastic Four
Big Talk
Iron Lantern #1 by Kurt Busiek and Paul Smith
Unlimited Access #1-4 by Karl Kesel and Pat Olliffe
Nerd Commendations
Gojira (1954) - The timeless classic that launched the kaiju genre
Avengers by Jed MacKay - A fresh take on Earth's Mightiest Heroes
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:10) Nerd News: Deck Nine Games' controversy and Silver Surfer casting
(16:50) Amalgam Universe: Iron Lantern's brilliance and Unlimited Access' time-traveling tale
(58:35) Nerd Commendations: Gojira's cinematic legacy and Avengers' new direction
(01:08:00) Closing thoughts and Call to Action
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Embark on a cosmic odyssey with Episode 185 of The Nerd Byword, where we catapult into the final frontier of the Amalgam Universe! In this supercharged installment, we dissect the last batch of one-shots birthed from the DC and Marvel collaboration. Was the best indeed saved for last? We scrutinize the intricate blend of characters like Doctor Doomsday and Thorion and weigh in on whether Marvel's storytelling prowess shone through or flickered out. We also dive into some juicy video game news that will set any nerds heart ablaze.
Nerd News
Marvel Rivals: Overwatch-inspired game announced
The Xbox Series X goes disc-less, signaling a digital dawn
Byword Big Talk
Challengers of the Fantastic by Karl Kesel, Tom Grummett, Al Vey & Joe Rosas
The Exciting X-Patrol by Barbara Kesel, Bryan Hitch, Paul Neary & Joe Andreani
The Magnetic Men featuring Magneto by Tom Peyer, Barry Kitson, Dan Panosian & Matt Webb
Spider-Boy Team-Up by R.K. Sternsel, Ladronn, Juan Vlasco & Joe Rosas
Thorion of the New Asgods by Keith Giffen, John Romita Jr., Digital Chameleon & Dan Brown
Nerd Commendations
Baldur's Gate 3
Ultimate Spider-Man #3 by Jonathan Hickman & Marco Checchetto
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:05) Nerd News: Marvel Rivals and the all-digital Xbox Series X
(14:45) Amalgam Universe: Marvel's final foray in one-shots
(53:20) Nerd Commendations: Baldur's Gate III and Ultimate Spider-Man #3
(01:04:10) Closing thoughts and Call to Action
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Embark on a journey through ink and time in Episode 184 of The Nerd Byword, where DC and Marvel collide with the fantastical Amalgam Age! This week, we're diving into the second season of Amalgam Comics, focusing on DC's slate of captivating one-shots. From the monstrous mashup of Bat-Thing to the animated antics of Dark Claw Adventures, we're dissecting these imaginative crossovers with our signature nerdy flair. But first, we tackle the headlines with Superman's best era earning a hardcover omnibus and the stirring debut trailer for The Acolyte, setting the stage for a Star Wars series like no other. Join us as we analyze, critique, and revel in the latest nerd news and the amalgamated wonders of DC's creative cauldron!
Nerd News
Superman's Triangle Era gets omnibus treatment
Byword Big Talk
Bat-Thing #1 by Larry Hama, Rodolfo Damaggio, Bill Sienkiewicz & Gloria Vasquez
Dark Claw Adventures #1 by Ty Templeton, Rick Burchett & Linda Medley
JLX Unleashed #1 by Priest, Oscar Jiminez, Hanibal Rodriguez & Patricia Mulvihill
Lobo the Duck #1 by Al Grant, Val Semeiks, Ray Kryssing & Francesco Ponzi
Super-Soldier: Man of War #1 by Dave Gibbons, Mark Waid, Jimmy Palmiotti & Angus McKie
Nerd Commendations
Superman '78: The Metal Curtain by Robert Venditti & Gavin Guidry
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:18) Superman's Triangle Era omnibus and fan anticipation
(15:55) The Acolyte trailer reactions and Star Wars expectations
(28:27) Amalgam Comics: DC's imaginative one-shot adventures
(56:12) Nerd Commendations: Superman '78 and X-Men '97
(01:07:22) Closing thoughts and a call to action
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Prepare your comic book hearts, as we unleash the might of ink and imagination in Episode 183 of The Nerd Byword! This week, we're celebrating the return of Amalgam Month, where we leap into the paneled past to revisit the epic showdowns of the DC vs. Marvel crossover miniseries. Join us as we dissect the first sequel of DC vs. Marvel, All Access. But before we don our capes, we delve into the latest Superman movie updates and ponder the implications of Nintendo's iron-fisted legal moves against emulation. And, of course, we've got fresh nerd commendations that'll have you sprinting to your nearest comic shop and gaming console!
Nerd News
Yuzu gets sued by Nintendo, shuts down
Superman movie news raises fan hopes
Byword Big Talk
All Access by Ron Marz & Jackson Guice
Nerd Commendations
Ultimate Black Panther #1 by Bryan Edward Hill & Stefano Caselli
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:15) Superman's new movie details and fan reactions
(14:30) Nintendo's emulation lawsuit and its broader impact
(30:00) Amalgam Months: The DC vs Marvel legacy continues
(55:45) Nerd Commendations: Ultimate Black Panther and a nostalgic game revival
(01:05:00) Closing thoughts and Call to Action
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
If you're a gamer, nostalgia junkie, or just someone who appreciates a good character arc, you're in for a treat with the latest episode of the Nerd Byword. Episode 182 is not just a number; it's a treasure trove of gaming goodness where we dive deep into our favorite video game characters of all time. What makes a video game character stand out? Is it their design, their backstory, or the way they make us feel as we navigate their digital worlds? We explore these questions and more, sharing our personal top picks that have left a lasting impression on our hearts and controllers. In nerd news, we take a look surrounding Kill the Justice League and Star Wars: Battlefront. Plus, new nerd commendations!
Nerd News
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League falls short of expectations
Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection coming soon
Byword Big Talk
Top 5 Favorite Video Game Characters
Nerd Commendations
Magic: The Gathering Arena
Chapters
(00:00) Welcome
(01:05) Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League falls short
(15:22) Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection re-release excitement
(27:44) Top 5 Favorite Video Game Characters
(54:18) Nerd Commendations - Magic: The Gathering Arena and Do a Powerbomb
(01:02:33) Call to Action
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
In our latest episode, we delve into the blink-and-you-missed it Blue Beetle movie, one of the final pieces of the DC Extended Universe puzzle. As movie buffs and comic enthusiasts, we dissect the film with our unique "three likes and three dislikes" approach, offering a comprehensive review that's both critical and celebratory. We also step into the ring to discuss the current state of WWE, where the lines between reality and performance art blur like never before. All this, plus new nerd commendations.
Nerd News
Coyote vs. Acme shelved again, set to be deleted
WWE drama strikes with return of The Rock
Byword Big Talk
The Blue Beetle
Nerd Commendations
The Nitpicker’s Guide to Classic Trek
Chapters
(00:00) Welcome to the Byword
(01:20) Our take on the current WWE landscape and the Cody Rhodes saga
(10:11) The Rock's heel turn and its impact on WWE storytelling
(18:33) Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to shelve 'Coyote vs. Acme'
(29:50) Deep dive into the Blue Beetle film - The good, the bad, and the final grades
(47:05) Overcooked - A recipe for fun and frustration
(52:34) The Nitpicker's Guide for Classic Trekkers - A Trekkie's delight
(58:07) Call to action
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Strap in for a super-powered deep dive as The Nerd Byword tackles the origins of Amazon Prime's hit show, Invincible! Episode 180 is all about going back to the source, exploring the first eight issues of Robert Kirkman and Corey Walker's iconic comic series. But before we leap into the fray, we're breaking down the latest Nerd News: Warner and DC Studios have found their Supergirl in Millie Alcock, and "Welcome Home, Franklin" is the new feel-good Peanuts story that rights a decades-long wrong.
Nerd News
Warner and DC Studios cast Millie Alcock as Supergirl
Apple TV Plus' Welcome Home, Franklin brings a heartwarming twist to Peanuts
Byword Big Talk
Invincible: The First Eight Issues
Nerd Commendations
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - The Dog of War
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(01:11) James Gunn and Peter Saffran find their Supergirl
(05:14) Peanuts' Welcome Home Franklin is a feel-good story
(10:29) The first eight issue of Invincible in review - What we like
(28:23) The first eight issue of Invincible in review - What we didn't like
(47:22) Star Trek Deep Space Nine: The Dog of War is solid
(53:05) Tears of the Kingdom is a great Breath of the Wild sequel
(56:06) Call to Action