Gotham Variety presents standalone audio drama (fiction and nonfiction), with new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Listening with headphones is recommended, as we do everything possible - with state of the art sound effects and sound design, gripping original music and some of the best v…
The Gotham Variety podcast is an absolute gem for fans of audio dramas and storytelling. With a different story each week, it offers a diverse range of subjects to dive into, making it easy to dip in at any point. The stand-out aspect of this podcast is the subject matter, which is both intriguing and captivating. From stories with a hint of darkness to supernatural elements, it caters to fans of horror and the supernatural. However, what sets it apart is that these stories are incredibly well-written and performed, adding depth and realism to the narratives. Overall, I highly recommend The Gotham Variety podcast for its engaging storytelling and unique blend of genres.
One of the best aspects of The Gotham Variety podcast is its ability to transport listeners into another world. The combination of great modern sound production and talented voice actors creates an immersive listening experience reminiscent of old-school radio stories. This podcast has struck the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation, delivering quality content that draws you in and keeps you hooked until the very end. Additionally, the dedication and passion behind this project are evident in every episode, showcasing the commitment of everyone involved in creating such a compelling show.
While it's challenging to find any major faults with The Gotham Variety podcast, one minor drawback could be its episodic nature. While some listeners may appreciate the variety that comes with each new story, others might prefer a more continuous narrative or character development across episodes. However, this is subjective and ultimately depends on personal preferences. Nonetheless, this slight inconvenience does not detract from the overall high quality of the podcast.
In conclusion, The Gotham Variety podcast is a captivating audio drama series that combines excellent storytelling with outstanding production value. It offers a delightful escape from reality through its immersive narratives and skilled voice actors. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or simply enjoy being transported into new worlds through audio dramas, this podcast will not disappoint. I wholeheartedly recommend giving The Gotham Variety podcast a listen and experiencing the joy of getting lost in its captivating stories.
LBJ kicks off Project Head Start; Queen Elizabeth visits West Berlin; U.S. destroyers shell the Viet Cong; John Lindsay runs for Mayor of NYC; Muhammad Ali defends his title. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 10th-ranked film for 1965, “The Sons of Katie Elder,” a Western directed by Henry Hathaway and starring John Wayne. We also rank the top five Wayne films of all time. Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ sends troops to the Dominican Republican; a teen sniper terrorizes California motorists; Edward R. Murrow is dead; North Vietnamese soldiers infiltrate the South; the Canadiens are NHL champions. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our No. 1 film for 1964, “Dr. Strangelove,” Stanley Kubrick's nightmare comedy dealing with Cold War fears of nuclear war. Support this project on Patreon!
MLK leads marchers from Selma to Montgomery; accusations of gas warfare in Vietnam; RFK scales Mt. Kennedy; Viola Liuzzo is murdered; two astronauts are honored; the NBA playoffs are off and running. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
Malcolm X is assassinated; Barry Goldwater speaks out on Vietnam; Patricia Neal suffers two strokes; James Baldwin debates William F. Buckley; the Celtics roll; Stan Laurel is dead. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our No. 2 film for 1964, “A Fistful of Dollars,” the first true Spaghetti Western that launched the careers of director Sergio Leone, star Clint Eastwood, and composer Ennio Morricone. Support this project on Patreon!
MLK and thousands of others arrested in Selma; LBJ stands firm on Vietnam; Gen. Curtis LeMay steps down; Malcolm X excoriates Elijah Muhammad; Muhammad Ali praises Floyd Patterson. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 3rd-ranked film for 1964, “Seven Days in May,” a political thriller directed by John Frankenheimer and starring Kirk Douglas, Burt Lancaster, Fredric March, Edmond O'Brien, and Ava Gardner. Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ delivers his State of the Union; MLK plans a campaign in Selma; Senate divided over Vietnam; “Ready Steady Go!” bans miming; Malcolm X speaks out; Joe Namath signs with the Jets. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 4th-ranked film for 1964, “A Hard Day's Night,” the Beatles' big-screen debut, which critic Andrew Sarris called “the Citizen Kane of jukebox musicals.” Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ decorates a Vietnam hero; Berkeley police arrest 800 students; J.W. Fulbright speaks out on Vietnam; Ringo gets his tonsils out; Dr. King wins the Nobel Prize; Muhammad Ali is on the mend. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 5th-ranked film for 1964, “Nothing but a Man,” a groundbreaking production starring Ivan Dixon and Abbey Lincoln which deals with contemporary black life in the Deep South. Support this project on Patreon!
Khrushchev is replaced; Ronald Reagan switches parties; RFK seeks to change his image; MLK wins the Nobel Peace Prize; the Cardinals are champions. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 7th and 6th-ranked films for 1964, “Goldfinger,” the third James Bond film, and “The Soft Skin,” French New Wave director Francois Truffaut's “clinical autopsy of adultery.” Support this project on Patreon!
Robert F. Kennedy resigns from the Cabinet; President Johnson speaks in Detroit; controversy over a school integration plan in NYC; Hell's Angels wreak havoc in Monterey; the Beatles invade Toronto; Checkers is dead. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
Violence in the Gulf of Tonkin; a Congressional resolution on Southeast Asia; a grim discovery in Mississippi; Ranger 7 sends pictures of the moon; LBJ speaks out on Vietnam; Giants manager Alvin Dark is on the defensive. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
Rioting in Harlem and Brooklyn; news coverage in Vietnam set to expand; the search for three civil rights workers continues; Malcolm X speaks out on Barry Goldwater; George Wallace withdraws; the Phillies are riding high. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 8th-ranked film for 1964, “The Pawnbroker,” a drama directed by Sidney Lumet about a Holocaust survivor played by Rod Steiger. Support this project on Patreon!
The search for three missing civil rights workers continues; departing Ambassador Lodge sees progress in Vietnam; Sen. Edward Kennedy recovers from a deadly plane crash; new requirements on cigarette packaging; Jim Bunning pitches a perfect game. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our 10th and 9th-ranked films of 1964, “The Naked Kiss,” a neo-noir directed by Samuel Fuller, and “That Man from Rio,” a French adventure-comedy directed by Philippe De Broca and starring Jean-Paul Belmondo and Françoise Dorléac. Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ envisions the "Great Society"; Reagan stumps for Goldwater; racial violence in St. Augustine; Malcolm X returns from Mecca; Jews patrol Crown Heights; Mickey Mantle slows down. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ speaks out against extremism; Communist atrocities in Vietnam; Barry Goldwater wins the Illinois primary; history is made at the Oscars; Shea Stadium opens for business. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our top-ranked film of 1963, “Hud,” directed by Martin Ritt and featuring an Oscar-nominated performance by Paul Newman and Oscar-winning performances by Patricia Neal and Melvyn Douglas. Support this project on Patreon!
Six Americans are killed in Vietnam; Mississippi Freedom Summer is announced; two Senators want U.S. out of Vietnam; Jack Ruby is doomed; Malcolm X speaks out; Cassius Clay has a new name and is rejected by the Army. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
Robert McNamara briefs LBJ on Vietnam; Barry Goldwater speaks out; Robert Kennedy goes on the Jack Paar Show; Malcolm X defects from the Nation of Islam; the Celtics set another record. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we review our second-ranked film of 1963, Louis Malle's haunting drama, "The Fire Within,” starring Maurice Ronet. Support this project on Patreon!
President Johnson speaks out on Vietnam; the Presidential primary campaign heats up; Malcolm X at odds with Elijah Muhammad; the Tax Bill is signed; the Beatles go home; Cassius Clay shocks the world. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
LBJ holds his first televised news conference; MLK visits Milwaukee; another coup d'état in South Vietnam; Sen. Margaret Chase Smith announces a Presidential run; “Louie Louie” is called “pornographic”; Cassius Clay creates chaos. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we move on to our fourth and third-ranked films of 1963, Akira Kurosawa's “High and Low” and Stanley Donen's "Charade," starring Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Support this project on Patreon!
The long-awaited Federal report on smoking is released; RFK sent on troubleshooting mission; Lieut. Gen. Westmoreland will replace Gen. Harkins in South Vietnam; LBJ gives his State of the Union — Goldwater responds; Mrs. Kennedy thanks the public; the NBA All-Stars almost go on strike. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
President Johnson meets with Chancellor Erhard; Harry Truman speaks out; Nikita Khrushchev predicts U.S. defeat in Vietnam; Martin Luther King is Time's Man of the Year; Roy Campanella brings Christmas cheer to a paralyzed jockey; the Chicago Bears are champions of the NFL. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we move on to our fifth-ranked film of 1963, Alfred Hitchcock's “The Birds.” At the end, we reveal our ranked list of the Top 10 films of Hitchcock's entire career. Support this project on Patreon!
President Johnson announces the formation of the Warren Commission; Governor Connally speaks out; Jack Ruby is indicted; Cape Canaveral is renamed; Staubach wins the Heisman Trophy. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
This report covers the murder of Lee Harvey Oswald as well as memorial ceremonies for President Kennedy. Included are clips of Lee Harvey Oswald issuing his last public denial of guilt; Ike Pappas of WNEW-AM describing the shooting as it happened; Police Detective Jim Leavelle, who stood next to Oswald when he was shot; Steve Landregan, Parkland Hospital administrator; Dr. Tom Shires, chief of surgery at Parkland; Joy Dale, a dancer at Jack Ruby's nightclub; Richard Nixon commenting on the murder of Oswald; and Chief Justice Earl Warren eulogizing President Kennedy. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
This report covers the assassination of President Kennedy from all angles. Included are clips of the President at various events just prior to his death; Walter Cronkite of CBS News; Acting White House Press Secretary Malcolm Kilduff; UPI Reporter Bill Hampton; Lyndon Johnson as he takes the oath and then delivers remarks at Andrews Air Force Base; Lee Harvey Oswald; Ted Callaway, who witnessed the shooting of Officer J.D. Tippit and picked Oswald out of a police lineup; two Dallas police officers who helped arrest Oswald; Dallas Police Sergeant Gerald Hill, who describes what was found on the 6th floor of the Texas Schoolbook Depository; Dwight D. Eisenhower; Martin Luther King; everyday citizens in Chicago and New York, including a policeman in Times Square; Dallas Police Chief Jesse Curry; and Dallas Judge David Johnston. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
President Kennedy defends his foreign aid program; a changing of the guard in South Vietnam; the pushbutton telephone arrives; the nation honors its war veterans; George C. Scott solicits feedback; Cassius Clay hears from the military draft board. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In Indianapolis, an explosion kills at least 62 people; in Philadelphia, President Kennedy is met by protestors; in South Vietnam, three Americans are captured; demonstrators assault Chief Justice Warren; Madame Nhu is snubbed in Los Angeles; Sandy Koufax wins another big award. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we move on to our sixth-ranked film of 1963, "The Organizer," an Italian strike drama directed by Mario Monicelli and starring the great Marcello Mastroianni (“8½”). Support this project on Patreon!
The South Vietnamese crisis deepens; state troopers go on the attack at a voter registration drive in Alabama; President Kennedy talks 1964; the nuclear test ban treaty is signed; the Valachi Hearings are criticized; the Dodgers are set for a big payday. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
Twenty-two U.S. Senators speak out on Vietnam; in the Deep South, schools in four states are integrated; a serial strangler terrorizes Boston; Robert Kennedy speaks to American Indians; Frank Sinatra is linked to a mobster; the Yankees clinch their 28th pennant. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support this project on Patreon!
In this episode, we move on to our seventh-ranked film of 1963, "The Great Escape," which marked career turning points for Steve McQueen, James Garner, and James Coburn. In this episode: - Background on director John Sturges [2:07] - Difficulties with Steve McQueen [5:58] - How Sturges helped viewers remember so many characters [8:31] - Where the filmmakers deviated from the facts of the 1944 escape [11:44] - Placing the film in the context of 1963 [15:15] - Scenes deleted from the final cut [18:38] - Facts on casting, storytelling structure, musical soundtrack [22:30] For an additional podcast on McQueen's role in this film and in two others, click here. Support this project on Patreon.
President Kennedy speaks out on Vietnam; Governor Wallace blocks integration of Alabama public schools; two young women are brutally murdered in New York City; the Beatles take Britain by storm; Whitey Ford joins an elite group; a blast from the past at the Polo Grounds. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Support us on Patreon!
The South Vietnamese Buddhist crisis worsens dramatically; a Birmingham civil rights leader's home is bombed; security measures are announced for next week's March on Washington; the Castro regime is charged with kidnapping; General Eisenhower signals support for the test ban treaty; a massive brawl breaks out at Yankee Stadium. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
In this episode, we move on to our 8th-ranked film of 1963, "Crisis: Behind a Presidential Commitment," a groundbreaking example of "direct cinema" that provides fly-on-the-wall coverage of the the 1963 integration crisis at the University of Alabama. In addition, we discuss the other Kennedy films of Robert Drew and offer recommendations of some other direct cinema films of the '60s, including "Mills of the Gods: Viet Nam" (1965). Link to documentary: "Mills of the Gods: Viet Nam"
President Kennedy speaks at the Naval Academy; Barry Goldwater hits the radical left; possible coup in South Vietnam; Marlon Brando is heckled; Cassius Clay cuts a record; Sonny Liston has a spiritual guide. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
D.C. police get ready for a massive civil rights march; South Vietnamese Government forces crack down on Buddhists; Richard Nixon defends Barry Goldwater; Marlon Brando is hospitalized; Floyd Patterson needs a miracle. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
In this episode, we move on to our ninth-ranked film of 1963, "This Sporting Life," directed by Lindsay Anderson and starring Richard Harris and Rachel Roberts. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
West Berliners cheer President Kennedy; N.J. Governor Hughes scores a major coup; the Mississippi D.A. seeks the death penalty for Byron De La Beckwith; the Viet Cong set booby traps; Malcolm X speaks out; Sonny Liston bites back at Cassius Clay. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
The University of Alabama is integrated; Medgar Evers is assassinated; a Vietnamese Buddhist monk sets himself on fire; President Kennedy talks peace; New Yorkers talk “Cleopatra”; the Yankees and Dodgers are on the rise. Newscaster: Joe Rubenstein. Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
In this episode, we commence our survey of the top 10 films of 1963 with a deep dive into our 10th-ranked film, "From Russia with Love." Please subscribe to this podcast, and thanks for your support!
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