Podcast Summary: How Did This Get Made? – "Expend4bles LIVE! w/ Jessica St. Clair"
Release Date: July 25, 2025
In this lively episode of the award-winning comedy podcast How Did This Get Made?, hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas dive deep into the chaotic spectacle that is "Expend4bles LIVE! w/ Jessica St. Clair." Joined by special guest Jessica St. Clair, the trio dissect every aspect of this action-packed, yet critically panned installment of the Expendables franchise.
1. Introduction to "Expend4bles LIVE!"
The episode kicks off with Paul Scheer humorously referencing the retirement age of the franchise's aging action stars, setting the tone for a critique filled with both nostalgia and satire.
Paul Scheer (00:00):
"You ever wonder how far an EV can take you on one charge? Well, most people drive about 40 miles a day..."
Note: Skipping the advertisement segments for T-Mobile and other sponsors to focus on the content.
2. Plot Overview and Initial Reactions
The hosts express their bafflement and disappointment with "Expend4bles LIVE!", highlighting its departure from the original trilogy's charm and coherence.
Paul Scheer (07:02):
"Hello, people of Earth. Hel. People of San Francisco. Well, well, it's not often we get a chance to talk about the fourth entry in a series. And it's because most movies that are this bad don't make four entries."
Jason Mantzoukas (05:09):
"What's up, jerks?"
The playful banter underscores their skepticism about the film's existence and quality.
3. Character and Casting Critique
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the film's cast, particularly the performances of Jason Statham and the controversial inclusion of Megan Fox.
Jessica St. Clair (09:35):
"I loved it."
While Jessica initially praises her enjoyment of the film, her perspective shifts as the conversation unfolds, reflecting the hosts' growing disillusionment.
Paul Scheer (10:30):
"I do love Jason Statham in this movie. Like, I think, amazing, great."
Jason echoes this sentiment, commending Statham's consistency and humor amidst the film's flaws.
Jason Mantzoukas (07:55):
"I'll be honest, I didn't see many of these dudes stand up. No, this is a mostly sitting movie."
The hosts lament the underutilization of established action stars, leading to repetitive and uninspired performances.
4. Technical Flaws and Production Quality
The episode delves into the movie's technical shortcomings, particularly its reliance on green screen and poor CGI.
Jessica St. Clair (33:56):
"I feel like the shittiest green screen I've ever seen."
Jason Mantzoukas (34:01):
"Like, if I went to, like, the Harry Potter exhibit and I'm like, I'm flying."
These critiques highlight the film's low production values, detracting from the overall viewing experience.
5. Plot Incoherence and Pacing Issues
The hosts criticize the movie's convoluted plot and inconsistent pacing, which undermine the narrative's effectiveness.
Jason Mantzoukas (76:00):
"So his plan is to start World War 3 so it will be profitable for him and the other Musk type villains."
Paul Scheer (77:27):
"But the movie can't quite cut the things together in the right way because they're cutting tonally between scenes in which like Stallone's doing a infanticide."
The abrupt transitions and lack of logical progression render the story confusing and disengaging.
6. Humor and Satirical Elements
Despite the overall negative reception, the hosts find humor in the film's absurdities and over-the-top moments.
Paul Scheer (52:34):
"Which, you guys don't know. You could say it. You could put Seal in the movie."
Jessica St. Clair (89:50):
"But Aperol Alma, I'd say that stuffing is so hot."
Their witty remarks and playful mocking add a comedic layer to the critique, keeping the discussion entertaining.
7. Audience Interaction and Final Thoughts
In the latter part of the episode, the hosts engage with the audience, addressing questions and sharing final opinions on the film's legacy.
Jessica St. Clair (86:36):
"I really wanna question me saying I loved it in the very beginning. I think it is a piece of shit."
Paul Scheer (83:13):
"Heavily unfinished. It was a big deal that they kind of, like, get him out of the drunk tank a little bit."
Their candid reflections underscore the film's failure to resonate, despite a star-studded cast.
8. Conclusion
Wrapping up the episode, the hosts reaffirm their initial skepticism while acknowledging the passionate fanbase that might still find enjoyment in "Expend4bles LIVE!". Their blend of humor, sarcasm, and genuine critique offers listeners a comprehensive look into why this installment stands out—as one of the worst movies ever made.
Jason Mantzoukas (82:19):
"This was a great gift idea for my husband."
Paul Scheer (86:06):
"Megan Fox appears because she appears as if, oh, the team's back together. Like in some way."
Note: Conclusion drawn from the overall discussion, omitting promotional and advertisement segments.
Notable Quotes:
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Paul Scheer (07:02):
"Hello, people of Earth. Hel. People of San Francisco." -
Jessica St. Clair (33:56):
"I feel like the shittiest green screen I've ever seen." -
Jason Mantzoukas (76:00):
"So his plan is to start World War 3 so it will be profitable for him and the other Musk type villains." -
Jessica St. Clair (86:36):
"I really wanna question me saying I loved it in the very beginning. I think it is a piece of shit."
Final Thoughts:
How Did This Get Made? delivers its signature blend of humor and critique, effectively highlighting the myriad flaws of "Expend4bles LIVE! w/ Jessica St. Clair." Whether you're a fan of action franchises or simply enjoy comedic dissections of cinema's missteps, this episode provides ample laughs and insights, reaffirming why the podcast remains a beloved staple for celebrating the worst films ever made.