The Stronghold & Giant Jack

You can now text us anonymously to leave feedback, suggest future content or simply hurl abuse at us. We'll read out any texts we receive on the show. Click here to try it out!

Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review!

In this episode, we venture into the deep, mysterious world of Top 5 Forests in Film, before tackling two very different but equally gripping movies—The Stronghold (Bac Nord) (2020), a tense French crime thriller, and Giant Jack, a fresh take on the classic fairy tale. Whether it’s the lawless streets of Marseille or a land above the clouds, this episode has something for everyone.

Top 5 Forests in Film

1. Fangorn Forest – The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)
   The home of the Ents, Fangorn Forest plays a key role in the battle against Saruman. With its ancient, sentient trees, this woodland feels alive in every sense.
2. The Forbidden Forest – Harry Potter Series (2001–2011)
   A magical (and dangerous) place filled with centaurs, giant spiders, and hidden secrets, making it one of the most memorable locations in the Harry Potter universe.
3. Sherwood Forest – Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
   This legendary forest serves as the hideout for Robin Hood and his band of outlaws as they fight against oppression and tyranny.
4. Aokigahara (The Suicide Forest) – The Forest (2016)
   Based on Japan’s infamous real-life location, this eerie and unsettling forest is the setting for a chilling supernatural horror story.
5. Pandora’s Bioluminescent Forest – Avatar (2009)
   James Cameron’s vision of an otherworldly jungle is breathtaking, filled with glowing flora and deeply connected to the Na’vi way of life.

The Stronghold (Bac Nord) (2020)

This intense French crime thriller, directed by Cédric Jimenez, delivers a raw and unfiltered look at law enforcement in the high-crime districts of Marseille.

Based on true events, The Stronghold follows a trio of police officers—Greg (Gilles Lellouche), Yass (Karim Leklou), and Antoine (François Civil)—who operate in one of Marseille’s most dangerous neighborhoods. Frustrated by the lack of resources and overwhelmed by the escalating violence, they resort to morally questionable methods to get the job done. However, their desperation leads them down a path that threatens to destroy their careers and their lives.

The film explores the blurred line between justice and corruption, showing how the system can sometimes push good people into bad decisions. It’s a thought-provoking look at the ethical dilemmas faced by those tasked with maintaining law and order.

Giant Jack (2024)

 Created by Max Keane and produced by Netflix, Giant Jack is a heart-warming animated series about a boy and his best friend—a big, lovable garbage truck. 

Hank, a six-year-old with a big imagination, spends his days exploring the world with his best friend, Trash Truck. Whether it’s helping out around town or going on fantastical adventures, their friendship fuels endless fun and learning experiences.

The series encourages kids to find joy in the little things—whether it’s playing out

We love to hear from our listeners! By which I mean we tolerate it. If it hasn't been completely destroyed yet you can usually find us on twitter @dads_film, on Facebook Bad Dads Film Review, on email at [email protected] or on our website baddadsfilm.com.

Until next time, we remain...

Bad Dads