How Did This Get Made? – Last Looks: Kraven the Hunter [Jason Edition]

Release Date: April 25, 2025

Introduction: Live Show Announcements and Host Banter

The episode kicks off with Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas excitedly announcing upcoming live shows in Toronto and Chicago. Paul teases that Toronto listeners can look forward to a special musical-like presentation of Sylvester Stallone's Oscar. Jason expresses his apprehension about another Stallone musical but remains enthusiastic about the live improv performances, featuring talents like Jessica St. Clair, June Diane Raphael, and special guests such as Lennon Parham and Lisa Gilroy.

Main Discussion: Dissecting Kraven the Hunter

Kraven the Hunter, the central focus of this episode, becomes the subject of in-depth critique and analysis. The hosts delve into the film's convoluted narrative and character development, particularly highlighting Sylvester Stallone's role and writing contributions.

• Sylvester Stallone's Involvement:
  Jason shares his disappointment upon discovering that Stallone penned the screenplay for A Working Man, a movie starring Jason Statham and David Ayer. Paul admits he had been saving the film for a potential podcast discussion but anticipates its shortcomings.

  Jason Mantzoukas [03:38]: "It is not the joyous Jason Statham Beekeeper vibes that we want. I'm afraid it is. It feels a lot more, let's say, Stallone."

• Sony's Spider-Man Universe:
  The hosts critique Sony's fragmented approach to building a cohesive Spider-Man universe. They argue that Sony introduces established villains like Rhino without meaningful integration into the overarching storyline, leading to a disjointed cinematic experience.

  Sean McBee [16:25]: "I don't think Sony has much of a plan."

• Character Analysis – Rhino:
  A significant portion of the discussion centers on the character of Rhino. The hosts find Rhino's portrayal inconsistent and question the logic behind his rhinoceros horns emerging from a scientific experiment intended to enhance strength.

  Jason Mantzoukas [27:43]: "How does even the most poorly administered and dangerous scientific study not only mess with his skin, but also give him rhinoceros horns?"

  Paul further criticizes the character development, noting that Rhino's mimicry ability is established but never utilized effectively within the story.

  Paul Scheer [27:48]: "If his mimicry had come into play at the end to facilitate even something as simple as deceiving a henchman, it would have been so much more rewarding."

Corrections and Omissions: Listener Feedback

In the Corrections and Omissions segment, listeners provide valuable feedback, addressing gaps and inaccuracies from the previous episode on Craven the Hunter.

• Jesse’s Correction on Comic Book Source:
  June Diane Raphael (voiced by Jesse) points out an omission regarding the original Craven's demise and his son's takeover, referencing a parody storyline akin to Get Shorty.

  June Diane Raphael [20:20]: "That's a moment in time, this Oscar movie where Stallone is trying to be like Schwarzenegger, do comedies..."

  Jason humorously responds, acknowledging the oversight and expressing interest in the recommended comic run.

• Kate’s Feedback on Rhino’s Screech:
  Kate from Austin highlights a specific scene where Rhino's lips appear unnaturally animated, suggesting potential CGI anomalies.

  June Diane Raphael [22:24]: "I really thought y'all were going to talk about it, and you didn't."

  Paul and Jason discuss the technical aspects of the scene, pondering whether AI or editing techniques were responsible for the odd visuals.

Call to Action: Supporting Public Libraries

A heartfelt plea emerges when June Diane Raphael (as a listener) brings attention to severe funding cuts affecting public libraries nationwide. The hosts emphasize the importance of libraries as community hubs and informational lifelines, encouraging listeners to advocate for sustained library funding.

June Diane Raphael [37:45]: "The cuts to public service have been horrific across the board... please come back and see us again in DC."

Paul passionately urges the audience to write to their congressional representatives, providing resources and templates to facilitate this crucial advocacy.

Paul Scheer [39:34]: "Support your libraries and get ready for double trouble next week."

Upcoming Content: Next Episode Preview

Looking ahead, Paul and Jason announce that the next episode will feature the 1992 buddy cop film Double Trouble, starring the identical twin brothers Peter and David Paul. They provide a brief plot synopsis and share a comedic trailer, hyping the upcoming discussion.

Paul Scheer [35:40]: "Next week we are watching the 1992 buddy cop film Double Trouble... a criminal and a cop who also happen to be twin brothers."

Jason complements the choice, expressing excitement about delving into the film's charming absurdities.

Conclusion: Final Remarks and Community Engagement

The episode wraps up with interactive elements such as song submissions from listeners and further announcements about live shows and re-releases of classic episodes. The hosts maintain their signature humor while fostering a sense of community and engagement among fans.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Mantzoukas [03:38]: "It is not the joyous Jason Statham Beekeeper vibes that we want. I'm afraid it is. It feels a lot more, let's say, Stallone."

• Sean McBee [16:25]: "I don't think Sony has much of a plan."

• Jason Mantzoukas [27:43]: "How does even the most poorly administered and dangerous scientific study not only mess with his skin, but also give him rhinoceros horns?"

• June Diane Raphael [37:45]: "The cuts to public service have been horrific across the board... please come back and see us again in DC."

Final Thoughts

In this episode of How Did This Get Made?, Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas, along with guest Jessica St. Clair, deliver a thorough and entertaining critique of Kraven the Hunter. Through their sharp humor and insightful analysis, they highlight the film's narrative flaws and Sony's inconsistent approach to the Spider-Man universe. Additionally, the hosts demonstrate a commendable commitment to community issues, advocating for the preservation of public libraries. Fans can look forward to engaging discussions, upcoming live shows, and future deep dives into other notoriously flawed films like Double Trouble.