We’ve got plenty of hot takes on Otakon, Peacemaker S2, and Highest 2 Lowest, before our Rioters debate which franchise is king: Fast & Furious, John Wick, or Transformers.
Otakon 2025
Kat and Julian recently attended Otakon in DC, with two very different experiences. They recap their time at the huge anime convention—Kat digs into all the recent K-pop & K-drama additions and events, including Billie and Apothecary Diaries, while Julian talks about the arcade, the anime-fueled car show, and the art. There were so many goodies on sale, from manga to cosplay to merch, they both had an awesome time and share their highlights.
Peacemaker S2 + Highest 2 Lowest
We’ve been loving Peacemaker for a hot minute, so it’s time to get into season 2 (Julian has a review up too). Sherin and Julian chat about the character additions and James Gunn’s influence, the humanity and heart, and the cast and acting. Oh, and they also tease the surprises that are gonna snatch you with Sherin sharing, “By EP 5, Peacemaker has only teased a riotous and revealing final arc, but S2 pops where its writer-creator does: yes, it’s brutally and grossly comedic, sometimes overly so, but the found family, humanity, and the upcoming plot twist will get you.”
To close out the segment, Sherin and Julian give a quick shoutout to Highest 2 Lowest and share their differing opinions on it. Sherin says it, “embodies its name, with some dialogue lows and the highs of a cinematic, nearly mythical “impossible choice,” one that tests the scales of love & family against money & power.” (Read Julian’s review for more.)
Fast & Furious vs John Wick vs Transformers
Philip jumps on with Sherin for a fiery segment, and they’re joined by special guest Nino Malong. Good thing there’s three of ’em because they’re taking on three mega-hit franchises: Fast & Furious, John Wick, and Transformers. It’s a fight to the death for best franchise, and they’re pulling no punches. There’s slander, and shenanigans, and a great deal of hilarity. They also have some ideas on where the franchises should go next. Which franchise will come out on top? Which host’s argument will triumph? Get your popcorn ready and prepare for a showdown.
Our Rioters are new fans of Quince: Sherin’s rocking the Cotton Linen Twill Long Sleeve Coverall Jumpsuit, and Julian’s got the All-Day Neoprene Backpack ready for any adventure. Quince combines quality materials with ethical manufacturing for a wide variety of styles and curated lines, which you know we’re all about. And we want to get you in on this action: Give your summer closet an upgrade with Quince. Go to quince.com/ggriot for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.
