Episode 359: The Yeti (2026)

In this episode of Adventures in Movies, hosts Nathaniel Muir and Blake Bloodbath dive into a mix of cult classics, upcoming sequels, and genre films, beginning with a spirited defense of Diablo Cody's 'Jennifer's Body'—a film they both now appreciate more than they did upon release. They express enthusiasm for the upcoming sequel to R.L. Stine's 'Pumpkinhead,' praising its seasonal release and practical effects. The conversation shifts to new releases like 'The Blue Trail,' a dystopian coming-of-age film set in a world where people are sent to old-age homes at 77, and 'Maul: Shadow Lord,' a Star Wars animated series that sparks mixed feelings due to the franchise's declining trustworthiness. A deeply personal highlight is their discussion of 'The Stranger,' an adaptation of Albert Camus' existential novel, which holds special meaning for Nathaniel as his first impactful book. The feature presentation is 'The Yeti' (2026), a creature feature set in 1947 Alaska, which begins with a strong, stylish newsreel intro but quickly devolves into a dialogue-heavy, underdeveloped thriller. Despite strong performances and a promising premise, the film suffers from poor pacing, confusing character arcs, and a convoluted ending. The Yeti design is criticized as cartoonish, though some practical effects and hand sequences are praised. While the film is flawed, both hosts agree it's entertaining enough to warrant a watch—preferably on streaming rather than a one-night theater run. The episode closes with a reminder to follow the podcast on social media and leave reviews. Key takeaways include: 1) Re-evaluating cult films with fresh eyes can lead to new appreciation; 2) Sequels to nostalgic properties like 'Jennifer's Body' and 'Pumpkinhead' can succeed with strong execution and timing; 3) Star Wars has lost its emotional pull for some fans due to inconsistent storytelling; 4) Personal connections to art—like reading Camus in high school—can deepen film appreciation; 5) A strong opening doesn't guarantee a strong film; 6) Overloading a creature feature with exposition kills momentum; 7) Found footage or tighter storytelling could have saved 'The Yeti'; 8) Wait for streaming before paying theater prices for niche genre films.