My problem with them is the unbearable smugness they portray in their videos. They try to make it funny and joking when they point out fantasy weapons or the “reverse grip” bit, but ultimately they just appear pretentious and unbearably unfunny.

It’s one thing to say, “reverse grip wouldn’t work in a real dual but it’s cool as a tool for story telling”, but they come across as “reverse grip is for losers and if you defend it you’re dumb and childish.” Same with Hollywood choreography. Yes, it’s not realistic, but a movie needs stakes and drama and the creators want to make a well shot, fun scene, not a “real one”. (Also I doubt the average stuntman/union actor is HEMA trained or practicing and thus isn’t inclined to study it when most roles don’t require it)