Stavvy's World #173 - David Sims and Griffin Newman
Mar 23, 2026
Griffin Newman, actor and film commentator known for Blank Check banter, and David Sims, film critic who analyzes directors' careers, join for a wide-ranging chat. They riff on RoboCop sequels, Batman portrayals, Simpsons action-figure lore, childhood toy tie-ins, superstar screening oddities, parenting stories, and listener call-in dilemmas. Fast, funny, and cinephile-forward.
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Movies As Personal Reboot Rituals
- Stavros described using specific movies like Creed and Batman Begins as personal “reboot” rituals during dark moments to get motivated.
- He detailed saving Creed 2 as a later-level reset and watching Creed daily when ready to overhaul his life, making it vivid and specific.
Studying Directors Reveals Creative Growth
- David and Griffin say studying a director's full filmography reveals how even great filmmakers start with weaker films and learn over time.
- David used Batman Begins coverage on Blank Check to explain how revisiting a director's whole career clarifies growth and recurring themes.
Why The Brad Goodman Simpsons Toy Flooded Stores
- David explained why the Simpsons Brad Goodman psychiatrist action figure overstocked shelves: deals with guest-star estates limited other figures, leaving this less-popular Albert Brooks character overproduced.
- He described the microchip figures, guest-star series, and Jackie Mason pulling out, causing Brad Goodman surplus.