The Best of 2025

The dust has finally settled on 2025, and what a year it was for storytelling! In this special year-end wrap-up, the Hardcover Hideout crew—Jerod and Chris—sit down to count down their favorite comics, movies, and TV shows from the past twelve months.

This week, the Hideout crew is diving deep into the world of comics and wrapping up a major sci-fi series.

• We kick things off with a discussion on the DC Absolute Series. We break down what makes this DC initiative so compelling, the new takes on these iconic characters, and where we think the line is headed next.

• Then, we swing into the world of Amazing Spider-Man and share our takes on Peter Parker's current struggles, and character developments,

• The moment we've been waiting for is here: We discuss the conclusion of the TV show Alien Earth. Did the finale stick the landing? We unpack the final twists, character fates, and give our overall series review—spoiler-filled, of course!

• Finally, join us for a fun segment where we play the classic word game "Before and After" using only comic book characters! Get ready for some ridiculous combinations and see if you can guess the answers before Chris does!

This episode of the Hardcover Hideout podcast delves into a wide range of comic book topics, with a special focus on collected editions and new series.

The hosts begin by discussing the Lucifer comic series, a spin-off of Neil Gaiman's The Sandman. They explore the story of Lucifer Morningstar after he abdicates his rule of Hell, examining the intricate plot and the character's unique pride in always keeping his word.

Next, the conversation turns to the world of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics, reviewing recent hardcover compendiums and the overall evolution of the series.

The podcast also features a segment on Kevin Smith's Quick Stops comics, an anthology series that expands on the "Askewniverse" characters from his films like Clerks, Mallrats, and Dogma. The discussion touches on the humor and nostalgic feel of these new stories.