Exploding Helicopter

“Relax – we're the good guys.”On this show we look at the Bruce Willis science fiction thriller SURROGATES (2009). The film explores what happens when humans being abandon the real world for a virtual one… what could possibly go wrong?Episode 159.

“The thing is – they make you put the furniture together yourself.”On this episode we take a look at another attempt to make a film about people tapping a computer keyboard, SWORDFISH (2001).We discuss the history of computer hacking on film and why the makers of this film blew up completely the wrong helicopter.Episode #158

“You can't kill me – I'm already dead.”On this exciting episode of Exploding Stagecoach we take a look at one of the most divisive films in the history of wooden wheeled transportation destruction, Van Helsing (2004).We discuss what happens when movie monsters collide, the Universal Horror Universe, and all the horse drawn fireball action. Episode 157. 

Before Roger Moore got his licence to kill, he was able to give his 007 persona a dry run in a little-known espionage thriller that's fallen between the cinema seats of film history, CROSSPLOT (1969). We're joined by the Lambcast's Richard Kirkham to see how Britain's favourite eyebrow waggler acquits himself in this tale of international intrigue and assignation. Episode 156.

“It's not the meat – it's the heat.”On this episode we look at Zach Snyder's zombie heist movie, ARMY OF THE DEAD (2021).As we review the film, we try to make sense of Snyder's career and an exploding helicopter that is as divisive as the CGI enthusiast himself. Episode 155.

“You've been killing me with Hitler's gun?”On this episode of Exploding Helicopter, we look at the time loop action-comedy BOSS LEVEL (2021).We discuss the film's video game influenced take on the concept before frazzling our brains by trying to work out EXACTLY how many exploding helicopters the movie features. It's gets meta-physical baby!Episode 154.Show notesBoss Level (2021)Director: Joe CarnahanCast: Frank Grillo, Naomi Watts, Mel Gibson, Michelle YeohPlot: Trapped in a time loop that constantly repeats the day of his murder, a former special forces agent must unlock the mystery behind his untimely demise.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“This body will take some getting used to.”On this episode of the Exploding Helicopter podcast, we look at a remake of one of the most famous science fiction films of the 1950s, THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL (2008).We discuss the film's thematic update, the futile efforts to launch Jaden Smith's acting career, and, of course, the exploding helicopter action. Episode 153.

“I don't turn into an idiot just because I get horny.”On this show we look at the ultimate high concept thriller, DEADLY ENCOUNTER (1982) – a film about a 90-minute-long helicopter pursuit. We discuss the film's extravagant aerial stunts, Larry Hagman as a leading man, and whether you can mix and match your aviation fuels. And we of course look at the exploding helicopter action. Show notesDeadly Encounter (1982)Director: William A GrahamCast: Larry Hagman, Susan Anspach, James GammonPlot: An ex-combat helicopter pilot helps a widowed ex-girlfriend find the black book her husband kept from mobsters.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterEpisode 152.

"Listen to me if you want to live."On this show we take a look at the insane, non stop, action-fest CARTER (2022) that's filmed as if it were all one take.We're joined by Nick Rehak to discuss the film's unconventional approach and marvel at not one, not two, not three, but four, YES FOUR, exploding helicopters. Episode 151. 

“Did you leave a cigarette burning?”On this episode we look at one of classics of the disaster movie boom of the 1970s, The Towering Inferno (1974).We're joined by Nick Rehak to discuss the future of Faye Dunaway's journalism career, how much water you can really store at the top of a skyscraper, and all the exploding helicopter action.Episode 150.

“Get real Beavis – she's just clearing her throat.”On this episode we look at yet another volcano disaster movie that features an exploding helicopter, DANTE'S PEAK (1997).There was really only one man for this job, so we're joined once again by magma movie enthusiast Fred Andersson to discuss the alluring appeal of Pierce Brosnan, the gratuitous glory of grandmothers being dissolved in acid lakes, some of the best miniature work we've ever seen, and – of course – the exploding helicopter action.  Episode 149.Show notesDante's Peak (1997)Director: Roger DonaldsonCast: Pierce Brosnan, Linda HamiltonPlot: A volcanologist arrives at a countryside town recently named the second-most desirable place to live in America, and discovers that a nearby long-dormant volcano may awaken at any moment.

"You're not going to kill anyone else are you?"On this episode we're looking at the film that attempted to turn Sir Anthony Hopkins into the next James Bond, WHEN EIGHT BELLS TOLL (1971).To see if we should award Old Tony a license to thrill is Richard Kirkham from the cryptically titled Kirkham A Movie A Day.Episode 148.NB - Unfortunately, this episode suffers from some audio issues. Hopefully, they're not too distracting. 

“Fifty bucks and the monkey can watch”On this show we're taking a look an animated film that celebrates the Eighties maverick cop genre, CHUCK STEEL: NIGHT OF THE TRAMPIRES (2018).Our guest on this episode is a podcaster on the edge, a maverick broadcaster who plays by his own rules, is Matt Poirier from the DTV Connoisseur.Episode 147Twitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“Most human problems can be solved with an appropriate charge of high explosive”During the 1980s, it seemed as if Hollywood sent every one of its action stars on unsanctioned missions to Vietnam to rescue American POWs. But before Chuck Norris and Sylvester Stallone got in on the MIA rescuing act, it was the more unlikely figure of Gene Hackman who first went in to get ‘our boys' back. So, on this show, we're looking at the film that kicked off an entire sub-genre of the Eighties Namsploitation movie boom, UNCOMMON VALOR (1983).We're joined by Todd Liebenow from the Forgotten Filmcast to discuss Nam movie tropes, the film's wildly eclectic cast, and whether America got to win this time.Show notesDirector:  Ted KotcheffCast: Gene Hackan, Patrick Swayze, Randall ‘Tex' Cobb, Fred Ward, Reb Brown, Robert Stack, Tim Thomerson, Harold SylvesterPlot: Ten years after his son went M.I.A. in Vietnam, U.S. Marine retired Colonel Jason Rhodes assembles a private rescue team to find Americans held in P.O.W. camps in Laos.Episode 146.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“Strange... I seem to remember... that the cathedral was on the other side of the square.”On this episode of Exploding Cable Car we take a look at the classic war epic WHERE EAGLES DARE (1968).We discuss inept interrogation tactics, Richard Burton's bad mood, and all the explosive cable transportation action.Episode 145.

“It's time to befriend the devil.”On this episode we return to the world of Bollywood to look at Shah Rukh Khan's action blockbuster PATHAAN (2023). We fire up the wind machine so Asim Burney from the Khandaan podcast can make a suitably dramatic return to the show. We discuss screen bromances, scandalous bikinis, and whether it's not too late for us to get a sculpted six pack. Episode 144. Show notesDirector: Siddharth AnandCast: Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham, Deepika Padukone, Salman Khan, Dimple KapadiaPlot: An Indian agent races against a doomsday clock as a ruthless mercenary, with a bitter vendetta, mounts an apocalyptic attack against the country.Follow Asim BurneyAsim Burney Twitter/XKhandaan – A Bollywood Podcast Twitter/XKhandaan – A Bollywood Podcast YouTubeKhandaan - A Bollywood Podcast iTunes

“Gentlemen – cancel your turkey orders.” On this show we rig for silent running and plunge below crush depth to review the French submarine thriller The Wolf's Call (2019).Show notesThe Wolf's Call (2019)Director: Antonin BaudryCast: Francois Civil, Omar Sy, Reda KatebPlot: In the near future, a French submarine finds itself in a crisis situation.

“You wouldn't hit a lady would ya?”Over a near 20-year period Clint Eastwood was one of the most popular box office stars in American cinema. On this episode we take a look at a film from Old Squint's commercial pomp, THE GAUNTLET (1977).We take a look at a film that appears to be just another run of the mill cop thriller from the Man With No Name, but under the surface turns out to be peculiarly odd.Episode 142.

“She was as easy to crack as a raw egg.”On this episode we take a look at one of the most important exploding helicopter scenes in film history. But before we do that, we discuss Narrow Margin (1990), Peter Hyams' remake of a film noir classic.Film notesNarrow Margin (1990)Director: Peter HyamsCast: Gene Hackman, Anne Archer, M Emmet Walsh, JT WalshPlot: A Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney is sent to protect a woman who accidentally witnessed a Mafia murder.Episode 141.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“Wow – that tongue thing is amazing.”On this episode we take a look at Michael Bay's The Island (2005).We discuss how well the inventor of ‘Bayhem' handles a film which attempts an exploration of philosophical and ethical questions whilst trying to figure out why we keep wanting to buy expensive consumer goods. Oh, and of course we take a look at the exploding helicopter action. Episode 140.

“Have you received adequate training for your profession?”On this show we're taking a look at the Michael Douglas noughties comeback THE SENTINEL (2006).After a three year absence from acting everyone's favourite recovering sex addict returned to the big screen with presidential assassination conspiracy thriller. Did we suffer a fatal attraction for The Sentinel? Or did fail to satisfy our basic instinct? After that we take some time to consider the musical career Kiefer Sutherland. Lucky us…Episode 139. Show notesThe Sentinel (2006)Director: Clark JohnsonCast: Michael Douglas, Kim Basinger, Kiefer Sutherland, Eva LongoriaPlot: A Secret Service agent is framed as the mole in an assassination attempt on the President. He must clear his name and foil another assassination attempt while on the run from a Secret Service Protective Intelligence Division agent.

“You may be bulletproof – but you're not love proof.” On this show we take a look at the cult Eighties action film BULLETPROOF (1987). We're joined by Matt Poirier from the DTV Connoisseur to discuss the action movie credentials of Gary Busey, why you should take a nap around this film's third innings, and whether it provided inspiration to the writers of The Simpsons. We also review the exploding helicopter action and discuss a method of chopper destruction that's only been seen 8 times in the entirety of film history!Show notesBulletproof (1987)Director: Steve CarverCast: Gary Busey, Henry Silva, Danny Trejo, William Smith, LQ Jones, RG Armstrong.  Plot: McBain - a former CIA agent turned renegade – loose cannon cop is called back to action by The Agency when an experimental, super tank is stolen. Our hero is sent to Mexico to recover the super weapon from the rag tag collection of Arab terrorists and Latin American commies who are behind the heist.  Episode 138.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow DTV ConnoisseurTwitter: @dtvconnoisseurWebsite: dtvconnoisseur.blogspot.com

“Now – just blink for yes – or die for no.”Over a 40-year career John Frankenheimer earned himself a reputation as one of Hollywood's foremost directors of action and suspense films. Here we're joined by Nick Rehak to take a look at one of his less heralded films, Black Sunday (1977). While it may not have the prestige and plaudits of The Manchurian Candidate, Seven Days In May or Ronin, it does have an exploding helicopter (which elevates its status in our eyes).Show notesBlack Sunday (1977)Director: John FrankenheimerCast: Robert Shaw, Steven Keats, Bruce Dern, Marthe KellerPlot: Terrorists attempt to blow up a Goodyear blimp hovering over the Super Bowl stadium in an attempt to kill the American president and 80,000 spectators.

“The rich must pay or the rich will die.” On the new Exploding Helicopter we're joined by Doug Tilley from Cinema Smorgasbord to look at a very strange film: ASSAULT IN PARADISE (1977).We try to decide if the film was trying to make a sophisticated exploration of the exploitation of Native Americans, or if it was just a confused mess of a movie with nothing to say.We discuss seduction at gunpoint, comedic car chases, wildly inappropriate cultural appropriation, and, of course, the exploding helicopter action!Listen now, listen later, but just make sure you listenShow notesAssault In Paradise (1977)Director: Richard ComptonCast: Oliver Reed, John Ireland, Stuart Whitman, Paul Koslo, Deborah RaffinPlot: An Arizona resort town is rocked when local cops are struck down by a crossbow-wielding assassin dressed as a Native American. The perpetrator of these murders is demanding a million-dollar payoff from the town's wealthiest citizens – lest they become his next victims. Fearing for their lives – and no doubt hoping to save themselves a few quid – the town's gentry call in a hard-drinking mercenary to stop the reign of terror before the killer notches up more victims.Episode 136.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireball Website: explodinghelicopter.com Instagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Cinema SmorgasbordTwitter: @CinemaSmorgTwitter: @Doug_TilleyWebsite: Cinema Smorgasbord

“Mother goose, mother goose, the quails are in the nest.”We take a look at the maritime-themed spin on Die Hard that briefly turned Steven Seagal into an A-list action movie star: UNDER SIEGE (1992).Was this film really a Steven Seagal vehicle though? Why did Tommy Lee Jones never record a blues rock album? And was the action in this film really no better than the Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman ‘Oirish' drama Far And Away? All these points and the exploding helicopter action are discussed in our new show. Episode 135.Show notesUnder Siege (1992)Director: Andrew DavisCast: Steven Seagal, Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Busey, Erika EleniakPlot: An ex-Navy Seal turned cook is the only person who can stop a group of terrorists when they seize control of a U.S. battleship.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: chopperfireball Website: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“What are you worried about? They're only toys.” On this episode we're reviewing Joe Dante's SMALL SOLDEIRS (1998).We discuss this surprisingly dark kids flick, subversive messaging and, of course, the exploding helicopter action.Show notesSmall Soldiers (1998)Director: Joe DanteCast: Kirsten Dunst, Kevin Dunn, Dennis Leary, Phil Hartman, Robert Picardo, Dick Miller, Tommy Lee Jones, Ernest Borgnine, Frank Langella, Bruce Dern, George Kennedy, Christina Ricci and Sarah Michelle Geller.  Plot: When missile technology is used to enhance toy action figures, the toys soon begin to take their battle programming too seriously.Episode 134.Find Exploding Helicopter onlineTwitterExploding Helicopter websiteInstagram

“Some of the men say it's one of those abdominal snowmen.” On this episode of Exploding Air Boat we take a look at one of the classics of the propeller assisted water transport genre, SWAMP THING (1982).We're joined by Nick Rehak to discuss the film's strange cult status, monster costumes and the spectacular air boat action. Episode 133.

“Only a lunatic would build a world class resort on a ticking time bomb of molten earth.”  On this show we do the deep dive on the shallowest volcano movie ever made, SKYFIRE (2019).We're joined by disaster movie aficionado Fred Andersson to discuss spectacular set-pieces, one dimensional characters, and a classic exploding helicopter. Show notesSkyfire (2019)Director: Simon WestCast: Hannah Quinlivan, Wang Xue-Qi, Jason IsaacsPlot: Geologist Wentao Li (Xueqi Wang) vowed he would never return to Tianhuo Island after a catastrophic volcano eruption tragically killed his wife. But 20 years later, his daughter Meng works on the island that took her mother's life, developing an eruption forecasting system. The island has now been transformed into a theme park by greedy businessman Jack Harris (Jason Isaacs) despite Meng's warnings. As the volcano begins to erupt, it's a race against the clock to save the tourists and villagers from the apocalyptic chaos.Episode 132.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Fred AnderssonTwitter: @homosatanisInstagram: Schmollywood Babylon

”Somebody - for some reason - wants us to believe that we're back in 1941.” On this show we spiral backwards through the time tunnel to review THE FINAL COUNTDOWN (1980).We discuss time paradoxes, marvel at the art of background acting, and admire the film's military hardware. Oh, and we of course discuss an exploding helicopter which may secure the outcome of WWII. Show notesThe Final Countdown (1980)Director: Don SharpCast: Kirk Douglas, Martin Sheen, Charles Durning, Ron O'Neal, Katharine RossPlot: A modern aircraft carrier is thrown back in time to 1941 near Hawaii, just hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.Episode 131.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“Where's the Sixties music dude?”On this show we take a look at the insane genre mash-up SOLDIER BOYZ (1995) – a film that attempts to fuse a prison movie, a teen drama with a ‘back to Vietnam rescue mission' action film. Matt Poirier from the DTV Connoisseur returns to the show to discuss young offender rehabilitation, the film's computer game spin-off and the only collaboration to date between Michael Dudikoff and Darren Aronofsky.Show notesSoldier Boyz (1995)Director: Louis MorneauCast: Micahel Dudikoff, Cary Tagawa, Don Stroud, Jacqueline ObradorsPlot: After the daughter of a wealthy American businessman is captured by a Vietnamese guerrilla group – an ex-Marine turned juvenile prison counsellor - is hired to lead a rescue mission alongside six young offenders.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow DTV ConnoisseurTwitter: @dtvconnoisseurWebsite: DTVConnoisseur.blogspot.comNovel: Holtman Arms by Matt Poirier

“You wait – my travel agent is going to hear about this.” On this episode we take a look at EVASIVE ACTION (1998) a film which tries to recreate the magic of Con Air, but this time on a train. Jay Cluitt from the Con Air: The Podcast joins us to look at the uncanny and shameless similarity to the Nicholas Cage classic. We also examine the little known musical career of one of the film's stars and, of course, the exploding helicopter action.Show notesEvasive Action (1998)Director: Jerry P JacobsCast: Dorian Harewood, Roy Scheider, Ray Wise, Sam Jones, Clint HowardPlot: A group of dangerous prisoners need to be transported to a new, maximum security, prison. Having witnessed the disastrous events of Con Air – when the authorities tried to transfer prisoners by plane – the criminals here are to be transported in a special rail carriage attached to a regular passenger train. But it soon becomes apparent that some of the prisoners have an escape plan.  Episode 129. Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Jay CluittTwitter: @ConAirPodTwitter: @LifeVsFilmWebsite: LifeVsFilm

“Did your date lose the handcuff key?”On this episode we don our tin foil hats to review the conspiracy thriller SHADOW CONSPIRACY (1997).We're joined by Nick Rehak to discuss conspicuous hitmen, the cinematic significance of basketball, and Stephen Lang's hair through the ages. Oh, and we also talk about an exploding helicopter that one of our hosts declares the best they've even seen! Show notesDirector: George P CosmatosCast: Charlie Sheen, Linda Hamilton, Donald Sutherland, Sam Waterston, Ben Gazarra, Gore Vidal, Stephen LangPlot: Bishop, trusted advisor to the president, has shots fired at him when Pachenko comes to him about a traitor in highest level of government. He gets away from the cold blooded assassin twice. Will he find the traitor before getting killed?Episode 128.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“They call him GORR-Z-YAH!” After punishing ourselves by reviewing Roland Emmerich's 1998 version, we turn our attentions to the Gareth Edwards helmed reboot, remake, re-quel GODZILLA (2014).Big G superfan joins us to discuss how this version honours/besmirches (delete as appropriate) the monster series traditions. And we of course look at the exploding helicopter action. Or, in this case, the exploding helicopter chain reaction. Show notesDirector Gareth EdwardsCast: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olsen, Bryan Cranston, Juliette Binoche, Ken WatanabePlot: Ford Brody - a Navy bomb expert - has just reunited with his family in San Francisco when he is forced to go to Japan to help his estranged father, Joe. Soon - both men are swept up in an escalating crisis when Godzilla - rises from the sea to combat malevolent adversaries that threaten the survival of humanity.  Episode 127.

“It's all in the grind Sizemore.” On this show we're taking a look at Ridley Scott's war epic BLACK HAWN DOWN (2001). As the events the film depict fade from memory, how does it play today? What point was the film trying to make? And how in the hell has Ridley Scott only ever made one film with exploding helicopter. We ask many questions on this show, but do we have any answers? Listen now and find out. Show notesDirector: Ridley ScottCast: Ewan McGregor, Eric Bana, Josh Hartnett, Sam Shepherd, Tom SizemorePlot: US soldiers are dropped into Mogadishu in October 1993 to capture the lieutenants of a renegade warlord, but find themselves in a desperate battle with a large force of heavily-armed Somalis.Episode 126.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“What's going on here? I'm lost.”On this show we review Michael Winner's FIREPOWER (1979). A film where the plot is almost as bonkers as the cast. We're joined by Nick Rehak to try and work out what on earth is going on and discuss the exploding helicopter action.Show notesFirepower (1979)Directed by: Michael WinnerCast: James Coburn, Sophia Loren, OJ Simpson, Vincent Gardenia, Eli Wallach, Jake La Motta, Victor MaturePlot: A retired hitman is hired by the F.B.I. to track down a powerful and reclusive businessman who is suspected of murder. Episode: 125Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“Never blame a mountain for what it does.” On this episode we take a look at one of the last films of the Seventies disaster movie cycle, the rock climbing catastrophe HIGH ICE (1980).Joining us to discuss the film is disaster movie enthusiast Fred Andersson from Schmollywood Babylon. We marvel at the film's tremendous antagonist, its annoying kid, and the most undignified death in disaster movie history. And, of course, the exploding helicopter action.Show notesHigh Ice (1980)Director: Eugene S JonesPlot: A park ranger clashes with an egotistical army officer over how to handle a rescue operation to save three rock climbers stranded on a mountain ledge. Cast: David Janssen, Tony Musante, Dorian Harewood.Episode 124.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Fred AnderssonTwitter: @homosatanisInstagram: Schmollywood Babylon

“The past is attacking us.” If you've ever wondered what a film that pitted soldiers from 16th century feudal Japan would fare against the military technology of the 21st century would look like, then wonder no more. You just need to check out SAMURAI COMMANDO: MISSION 1549 (2005). We discuss time travel, samurais, and the sixteenth century exploding helicopter action. Show notesSamurai Commando: Mission 1549 (2005)Director: Masaaki TezukaPlot: After an experiment goes wrong soldiers from Japan's defence force are sent 460 years into the past. But when mysterious anomalies threaten the present, a new team of soldiers is sent back in time to correct history and save the world.Episode 123.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.com Instagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“I welcome you warmly to the land of toy cars.” On this show we take a look at the surprisingly dark children's animation THE TAYO MOVIE – MISSION: ACE (2016).We're joined by Nick Rehak to discuss abandonment issues, post-traumatic stress, militarised violence and unchecked authoritarian rule. And, of course, the exploding helicopter action.Show notesThe Tayo Movie – Mission: Ace (2016)Director: Ryu Jung-woo and Anna PaikPlot:  Tayo travels to Toy Land with Duri and Hana to save Duri's favourite car Ace. Will they save Ace? And can they find their way back home?Episode 122.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“I'd say there's two ways of doing that – no way and no how.” On this exciting new episode of Exploding Jet Ski we finally tackle the Citizen Kane of exploding jet ski cinema, WATERWORLD (1995).To review a film of such profound artistic importance there was really only one man to call, jet ski film aficionado Mark Hofmeyer.Show notesWaterworld (1995)Director: Kevin ReynoldsCast: Kevin Costner, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Dennis HopperPlot: In a future where the polar ice-caps have melted and Earth is almost entirely submerged, a mutated mariner fights starvation and outlaw "smokers," and reluctantly helps a woman and a young girl try to find dry land.Episode 121Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Mark HofmeyerTwitter: @Mhofmeyer Website: Movies Films and Flix

“Nobody ever asks how many you saved.” We take a look at the new Scott Adkins film ONE SHOT (2021), one of the most ambitious action film in recent years. And who better to help us review the film than action auteur Alex Rallo from Head Exposure and Kinemotions. Warning! This podcast contains views about the career of Isaac Florentine that some listeners may find upsetting.Episode 120Show notesOne Shot (2021)Director: James NunnCast: Scott Adkins, Ryan Phillipe, Ashley GreenPlot: An elite squad of Navy SEAL's are on a covert mission to transport a prisoner from a CIA island black site. He's wanted for interrogation as it's believed he's got vital information that can stop an imminent terrorist attack. As the SEALS are about to leave with their man, the prison is attacked by insurgents who are trying to rescue the prisoner to stop him revealing what he knows. FollowFollow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Alex RalloTwitter: @HeadExposureWebsite: Film ExposureYouTube: Kinemotions

“If something's lost – it can be found.”On this episode, Will is joined by Nick Rehak to take a look at the big screen adaptation of the hit computer game franchise UNCHARTED (2022). *Be warned this is a film review WITH spoilers*Episode 119.Show notesDirector: Ruben FleischerCast: Tom Holland, Mark Wahlberg, Antonio BanderasPlot: Street-smart Nathan Drake, is recruited by seasoned treasure hunter, Victor "Sully" Sullivan, to recover a fortune amassed by Ferdinand Magellan, and lost 500 years ago by the House of Moncada.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“It's not religion – it's the onset of senility.”We take a look at one of the last films made by the legendary Cannon Group, FIFTY/FIFTY (1992) before the company went belly up. The film stars Robocop and Ted Stryker as a pair of bickering mercenaries hired by the CIA to overthrow a meddlesome dictator. We're joined by Cannon aficionado Austin Trunick, author of The Cannon Film Guide, to discuss this under-the-radar gem. Show notesFifty/Fifty (1992)Director: Charles Martin SmithCast: Peter Weller, Robert Hays, Charles Martin SmithPlot: Two bickering mercenaries are hired by the CIA to overthrow a South East Asian dictator.Episode 118.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Austin TrunickTwitter: @CannonFilmGuideFacebook: Cannon Film GuideWebsite: Cannon Film Guide

“What do you know about dancing?” You don't find many exploding helicopters in musicals and romantic dramas, but we've managed to find the one film that features a chopper fireball alongside the dance numbers. So, on this episode, we're reviewing the most unique film we've ever tackled: DANCIN' – IT'S ON! (2015).Helping us make sense of this cinematic first is Matt Poirier from the DTV Connoisseur. We try to work out what Gary Daniels is doing in this film, discuss the filmic art of ‘angry dances' and, of course, the exploding helicopter. Show notesDancin' – It's On (2015)Director: David WintersCast: Gary Daniels, David Winters, Witney Carson, Chehon Wespi-TschoppPlot: Two young dancers fall in love and eventually work together to win a dance competition.As discussed on the episode, you can watch Gary Daniels interview with Scott Adkins on YouTube. Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Matt PoirierTwitter: @DTVConnoisseurWebsite: DTV ConnoisseurEpisode 117.

“They call him Gojira, you moron!” No fictional character has appeared in more films with an exploding helicopter than Godzilla.So, on this show, we're looking at the Big G's controversial appearance in Roland Emmerich's GODZILLA (1998).Show notesGodzilla (1998)Director: Roland EmmerichCast: Matthew Broderick, Jean RenoPlot: French nuclear tests irradiate an iguana into a giant monster that heads off to New York City. The American military must chase the monster across the city to stop it before it reproduces.Episode 116.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Nick RehakTwitter: @TheRehakWebsite: Rehak Radio

“It's a great plan - if it was 1985.”  As The Expendables 4 cranks into gear, we thought it was a good time to take a look at the last entry in the pensioner-led action franchise. Our special guest on this episode is author, filmmaker, and bad film aficionado Timon Singh. Show notesThe Expendables 3 (2014)Director: Patrick HughesCast: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson. Plot: Barney hires a team of new blood to take down Conrad Stonebanks, a notorious arms dealer who also happens to be the Expendables co-founder. Episode 115.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Timon SinghTwitter: TimonSinghWebsite: Born To Be BadFacebook: Born To Be Bad

“Let me guess – you saw that work on Inspector Gadget?” On this show we take a look at the bizarre attempt to turn Jim Belushi into a James Bond-style action hero. We're joined by Matt Poirier from the DTV Connoisseur who helps us try and understand how everyone's second favourite Belushi has managed to maintain a forty-year screen career and discuss a unique exploding helicopter scene. Show notesRoyce (1994)Director: Rod HolcombeCast: James Belushi, Miguel Ferrer, Peter Boyle, Anthony HeadPlot: A group of former covert black ops agents plan to steal five nuclear warheads and sell them to a South American drug cartel. The only man who can stop them is their former colleague: secret agent Shane Royce. Episode 114.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“When I asked for your advice, I didn't mean you should actually speak.”After 6 years of podcasting, Exploding Helicopter is pleased to finally have a guest who actually knows what they're talking about. So, on this show, we're joined by nuclear weapons expert and host of The Super Critical Podcast, Tim Westmyer, to review THE SUM OF ALL FEARS (2002). A film which sees two of the world's great superpowers brought to the brink of nuclear war.We discuss biscuits, footballs, two-man rules and a unique exploding helicopter. Show notesDirector: Phil Alden RobinsonCast: Ben Affleck, Morgan Freeman, Liev Schreiber, James Cromwell, Philip Baker Hall, Alan Bates, and Ciarin HindsPlot: When the President of Russia suddenly the change in political leaders sparks increasing tensions between the United States and Russia. Then the unthinkable happens: a nuclear bomb explodes in a US city, and America is quick to blame the Russians.Episode 113.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow The Super Critical PodcastTwitter: @NuclearPodcastWebsite: supercriticalpodcast.com

“Sometimes you gotta shoot a hostage.”Is Kevin Costner the greatest actor of all-time? Or is he more like a jar of peanut butter you find at the back of the kitchen cupboard? These are among the many important questions we ponder as we review Big Kev's coastguard drama THE GUARDIAN (2006).Our guest on this show is Kevin Costner aficionado – and Waterworld apologist – Barry Riddell from the Tru Bromance Podcast. Show notesDirector: Andrew DavisCast: Kevin Costner, Ashton Kutcher, Clancy Brown, John HeardPlot: A high school swim champion with a troubled past enrolls in the U.S. Coast Guard's "A" School, where legendary rescue swimmer Ben Randall teaches him some hard lessons about loss, love, and self-sacrifice.Episode 112.Follow Exploding HelicopterTwitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopterFollow Tru Bromance PodcastTwitter: @TruBromanceCastWebsite: truebromancefilm.com

"At sunset - all birds look black."In 1991 the Soviet Union collapsed and the newly independent state of Russia was ready to embrace those familiar symbols of Western capitalist decadence: big macs, blue jeans and, of course, action films. So, on this show, we're reviewing Russia's first attempt at an American-style action film: RED MOB (1992).Show notesRed Mob (1992)Director: Vsevolod PlotkinCast: Vladimir MenshovPlot: After mobster kidnap his son, an Afghan war veteran is blackmailed into leading a gun smuggling operation across the border. Episode 111.Twitter: @chopperfireballWebsite: explodinghelicopter.comInstagram: explodinghelicopter

“Black – just like the heart of the space programme!” When the world zigs left, Exploding Helicopter likes to zag right. So, with Godzilla vs Kong stomping around in cinemas, we naturally headed straight for The Asylum's mockbuster take on the film, APE VS MONSTER (2021).We're joined by Nick Rehak to look at the film's surprisingly interesting plot which takes in Eighties Cold War conspiracies, sexual politics, and some very dubious science. We also identify a new exploding helicopter film trope!Show notesDirector: Daniel LuskoCast: Eric RobertsPlot: An ape crash-lands on Earth, which creates a sludge that makes him and a passing scorpion grow to giant-size, resulting in a fight for dominance.Episode 110.

“No risk, no reward.” Revenge is a dish best served in celluloid. Or so thought legendary Hong Kong director Jing Wong after he had a falling-out with Jackie Chan. The resulting, score-settling film was HIGH RISK (1995), a 100 minute-long takedown of the acclaimed martial artist.   Helping Will investigate the beef behind the backstory is Alex Rallo from One Perfect Headshot. They discuss what led the two movie moguls to loggerheads, some stunning action set pieces, and Wong’s peculiar brand of toilet humour. Show notes High Risk (1995) Director: Jing Wong Cast: Jet Li, Jacky Cheung, Chingmy Yau and Wu Ma Plot: After his wife and child are killed by a terrorist known only as The Doctor, Kit Li retires from the police to work as a bodyguard and secret stunt double for the cowardly martial arts film star Frankie Lane. While Frankie is attending an event at a Hong Kong hotel, The Doctor's gang take over the building giving Ki Li the chance to take his revenge. Episode 109