Retro Ramble

Get ready for a deep dive into the classic film that redefined the summer blockbuster -  Jaws! Charlie and George celebrate the movie's 50th anniversary, reminiscing about its enduring impact whilst exploring its challenging production, iconic moments, characters and lasting legacy, from the problematic mechanical shark "Bruce" to John Williams' unforgettable score. Join them for a light-hearted yet insightful look back at a film that became a shared experience for a generation, making us all afraid to go into the water!

In this episode, Charlie and George revisit Danny Boyle's intense 2002 horror classic, 28 Days Later!  They discuss everything from the iconic desolate London setting, production tricks,  the breakout performances from Cillian Murphy and Naomie Harris, the atmospheric score, and its role in shaping modern zombie horror.    Join us for a spoiler-filled discussion as we explore this groundbreaking post-apocalyptic thriller and its lasting legacy.     #28DaysLater #DannyBoyle #CillianMurphy #ZombieMovie #HorrorPodcast #Alexgarland #RetroFilmReview  

In this episode, once again its time to pay tribute to another legend. Following the recent passing of Val Kilmer, George and Charlie take a moment to look back on their favourite films of an actor taken too soon. We will be covering Kilmer's uncanny performance as Jim Morrison in The Doors in our next patreon episode. Retro Ramble 2025

In this episode, to honour the late, great Gene Hackman, Charlie and George are taking a deep dive on Crimson Tide! There's a lot to discuss, it's a Tony Scott film (so expect slick, sweaty visuals), two of the greatest actors squaring off in a confined space and a booming Hans Zimmer soundtrack, paving the formula for future Simpson/Bruckheimer productions. As usual, there's some juicy behind-the-scenes insight and some interesting alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda.

A short special episode remembering the acting legend Gene Hackman, who we sadly lost a few weeks ago. Charlie and George discuss a variety of their favourite performances, from French Connection, Superman, Get Shorty, Royal Tenenbaums and The Conversation. Their next podcast episode will be a deep dive (pun intended) on Crimson Tide! Please like, review and share with like minded retro fans!   Disclaimer: ALL COPYRIGHT USED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CREATIVE COMMONS ACT.  

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to Oregon, to see if Number 5 really is alive.... That's right, they're revisiting 80's cult classic Short Circuit! All the usual topics are covered, from preproduction challenges, suspicious spin offs to controversial casting (and that's not just Steve Guttenberg)!   Does Short Circuit still hold up? Where does it rank with other family favourites?  Listen to find out! Please like, review and share with like minded retro fans!   Disclaimer: ALL COPYRIGHT USED IN ACCORDANCE WITH CREATIVE COMMONS ACT.    

In this episode, it's Annual Arnie time, with Charlie and George delving into one of Schwarzenegger's biggest misfires - Last Action Hero! How can a film with the world's biggest star, a huge budget, a great concept, a successful director and the most expensive writers in Hollywood possibly fail?!   Was it ahead of its time? Is it underrated? Tune in to find out!    

To kick off 2025, Charlie & George are looking back on what they watched in 2024!   The brothers discuss what they loved, were mildly entertained by and what they felt were the turkeys of the year!     Films include Dune 2, Gladiator 2, Alien Romulus, The Fall Guy, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire and plenty of other nostalgia-bait!   TV highlights include; Terminator Zero, Blue Eyed Samurai, The Gentleman and Shrinking   For more in-depth reviews of Alien Romulus   Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Roadhouse and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (plus much more!) - please check out our Patreon channel:   www.patreon.com/retroramble  

It's that wonderful time of year again—Christmas! And what better way to celebrate than with a festive favourite film? This time, we're diving into a sequel to one of the biggest movies of the '80s: 1992's Batman Returns!  Charlie and George take a deep dive into the superhero sequel where everything is ramped up - the villains, production design, classic Tim Burton weirdness and well, horniness. They discuss everything from production background, casting decisions, sequel spin-offs and probably too much time sharing their love for Christopher Walken's intense villain, Max Shreck! Santa Claus? 'fraid not, we're just some podcast who got lucky, and sue us, if we wanna give something back!

Charlie and George uncover a gateway to the other side of the universe, whisking themselves back to 1994 to revisit Stargate!   The film that launched a host of TV spin-offs, comics and games, the boys delve into its origins, casting and post-production struggles. Plus there's lots of chat about Kurt Russell's hair.   Enjoy and please share!        

It's another Halloween special and Charlie and George are talking all about Jason Voorhees in the tenth installment of the Friday The 13th series, Jason X! Also know as Jason in Space, or even Spason to some fans, it's a bonkers take on the horror icon that was a big success on good old DVD! One question, why is everyone dressed like they're off to a nightclub?! Enjoy, and please share! Retro Ramble 2024   For more episodes like this visit - www.retroramble.blog  

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are back in 'Nam, to tackle the gloriously OTT sequel, Rambo: First Blood Part 2! They discuss early script ideas, alternative casting and the giant genre leap from the first movie! Don't forget, to survive war, you gotta become war!

In this episode, Charlie and George are back in Bond territory, as they celebrate 60 years of Goldfinger!  Tackling the third film in the series, this classic Connery caper established a lot of the Bond formula we know and love.    The brothers discuss behind the scenes trivia, casting, a brassy John Barry score and some of the most iconic moments in the Bond franchise!   Do you expect us to talk? No, expect us to Ramble! 

Charlie and George board the USCSS Nostromo to discuss one of the biggest influences on modern sci-fi horror: Alien!   To celebrate the upcoming release of Alien: Romulus, they'll be delving deep into the film that gave birth to a mega-franchise.   From the original script to the talented concept artists and a new up-and-coming director, one Ridley Scott, they will cover it all!   Remember, in space, no one can hear you scream, but we certainly hope you listen to this episode!

George and Charlie travel to the ancient city of Hamunaptra to take on The Mummy!  To celebrate 25 years of the blockbuster action-adventure-romance-horror, they delve deep into Imotep's tomb, unveiling the long journey to screen for the beloved remake.   The brothers discuss their love for break-out star Brendan Fraser, on-set challenges, top vfx and its release during the summer of 1999, holding up against the hype of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and sleeper hit, The Matrix!   Like, comment and please share!

Charlie and George are reviewing "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" and are joined by special guest Em from the Verbal Diorama Podcast!  They cover everything from the source novel, early tests, animation challenges and that good old Spielberg and Zemeckis magic!   Em's passion for animation and movies in general made her a great guest. Listeners should check out her podcast with over 200 episodes on various film genres! verbaldiorama.com/iwannalisten

Charlie & George travel to the dangerous jungles of Central Africa to tackle cult 90s blockbuster oddity, Congo! It has all the ingredients for a blockbuster: based on a Michael Crichton novel, from the makers of Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park, creature effects by the late Stan Winston, and a diverse cast including a scenery (and sesame cake) devouring Tim Curry - but is it successful? Tune in to find out!   Retro Ramble 2024

Charlie and George travel back in time "about 40 years" to finally get around reviewing 1980s classic, The Terminator!    A huge film for the brothers and many others, it's a deep dive into the low budget thriller that started a franchise, that likes it protagonist, cannot be stopped!   One of the most important films of the decade, it made Arnold Schwarzenegger a bonafide star and introduced the world to James Cameron, the most successful director of all time! 

1994 gave us not one, but two skydiving action thrillers, so Charlie and George thought it was only fair to revisit, review and compare both Drop Zone and Terminal Velocity.    It's Wesley Snipes vs Charlie Sheen. It's Gary B (that's Busey) vs the KG - Used to Be. There can only be one victor, but who are the boys backing? The results may surprise you!   Need more 90s action in your ears? Why not check out our Sudden Death review, recently available exclusively on our Patreon channel, patreon.com/retroramble   Need more 90 skydiving action in your ears - why not check out our Point Break review (way back in Episode 4!)?    

In this episode Charlie and George pay tribute to the actor Carl Weathers who sadly passed away. The boys remember the actor through the iconic roles he played during his career.

Charlie and George navigate Jim Henson's Labyrinth for a slice of 1980s kid's fantasy nostalgia! There's much to discuss, from the script development, the music and ground-breaking puppetry but mostly the majestic and much-missed, David Bowie's Goblin King, Jareth!   Be prepared for lots of bad Bowie impressions!

For this year's festive episode, Charlie and George discover the true meaning of Christmas, with Scrooged! The boys are back in Richard Donner country, with the festive favourite that lured back Bill Murray to acting after an absence of several years!   There's the usual production chat, first memories and a shared love for some classic sardonic delivery from Mr Murray!   In a bit of a twist on Coulda Woulda Shoulda, we discuss the other big films from 1988 that Murray passed on to make this film - some are very surprising!   So download, get comfy and have a listen - Yule love it!   Merry Christmas!   Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode Charlie and George are joined by returning guest Andy Hughes to discuss 20 years of Kill Bill! To celebrate they are revisiting "the whole bloody affair", which means both volumes 1 & 2!   It's a bumper episode taking in first memories, soundtracks, iconic anime, elaborate fight choreography and a brief overview of all things Tarantino.   There's also alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, alternate cuts and mooted sequels/spin offs.    Retro Ramble 2023      

In this month's episode, Charlie and George head to Antarctica to discuss the horror classic, John Carpenter's The Thing.    This film has been on the Retro Ramble hitlist since the podcast started, and it's one of the few horror films the brothers are happy to revisit! During the episode, they delve into the film's origins, its haunting Morricone score, Rob Bottin's ground-breaking practical effects, and several Suspicious Spin-Offs!   Listeners can expect a healthy dose of paranoia, bad impressions, and lots of fawning over the film's star, Kurt Russell.    If you're in the mood for more John Carpenter spookiness, make sure to check out their thoughts on Halloween (1978) and They Live! (1988) over on their Patreon channel at https://www.patreon.com/retroramble.

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are back in sweaty LA with a slick slice of early nineties action with The Last Boy Scout! Brought to us by a holy action quartet of star Bruce Willis, writer Shane Black, producer Joel Silver and director Tony Scott - explosive action (on and behind the camera) is guaranteed! We dive deep into this film's production and share some juicy behind-the-scenes facts. Plus, in our "Coulda Woulda Shoulda" segment, we'll be discussing some alternative casting choices that could have made this movie very different! But it's not all about our thoughts - we want to hear from you too! Let us know where The Last Boy Scout ranks on your list of favourite 80s/90s action movies. Don't be shy, let us know what Last Boy Scout means to you! Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are donning their tuxedos to celebrate the 40th anniversary of two competing Bond films, Octopussy and Never Say Never Again! Both Sir Roger and Sir Sean are back, and the brothers McGhee are excited to enjoy their company. The episode features a behind-the-scenes discussion regarding the complicated ownership of James Bond rights in cinema, dating back decades. The hosts also compare the strengths and weaknesses of both films, including casting choices and production values. As always, expect a plethora of bad impressions! Further reading As discussed in the episode, we recommend all Bond fans check out the following books, which massively helped our research:   Some Kind of Hero by Ajay Chowdhury and Matthew Field The Battle for Bond by Robert Sellers

In this month's episode Charlie and George slip on the black leather jumpsuits for some naughties comic book action, let's talk about X-Men!    Looking back at the original film (of a 13 film franchise) years before the birth of the MCU, there's much to discuss.From the film's long development, script challenges, budget constraints and behind the scenes drama*    As usual there's alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and plenty of Ian McKellen impressions.   *For more insight to the drama here's the Hollywood Reporter article referenced in the episode https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/bryan-singers-traumatic-x-men-set-movie-created-a-monster-1305081/    

In this month's episode, Charlie and George go in search of The Holy Grail, as they saddle up to review Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade! As Indy's fifth and final adventure is released in cinemas, the McGhee boys revisit the original closing chapter of the action adventure saga! They talk the crazy early scripts (possibly including monkeys and biomechanical Nazis) alternative casting, practical effects and stunning stunts!    Need more Retro Ramble in your lives? Why not check out our patreon channel for bonus episodes, including our latest release covering our favourite 80's soundtracks!    Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode, Charlie and George head from grimy Detroit to sunny Los Angeles, that's right, we're finally reviewing Beverly Hills Cop!   The brothers discuss everything from it's more serious origins, Eddie Murphy's rise to stardom and the villains you love to hate! There's also some very interesting alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and the usual bad impressions!   Sit back, enjoy, maybe make yourself an espresso with a little lemon twist?   Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are willing to believe a man will fly - with a podcast special on Superman The Movie and Superman 2!   The films had a big effect on the Brothers McGhee growing up and as it's the Man of Steel's 85th anniversary (and 45th anniversary of the first movie) it felt the right time to revisit the classic comic book epics!   There's a whole lotta Superchat to get through, gigantic scripts, creative accounting, crazy casting, location changes, and plenty of behind the scenes drama!   The lengthy chat only covers the theatrical cuts of these films, however we will be covering the Richard Donner Cut of Superman 2 in a Patreon special in the near future!

In this month's episode...it's time to start running! That's right, it's Retro Ramble's "Annual Arnie", with Charlie and George talking all about The Running Man! They cover everything from the Stephen King source novel, multiple directors, tight budgets and some alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda! Are you ready for pain? Are you ready for suffering? lf the answer is yes, then you're ready to listen to this episode! Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to drill into to an asteroid the size of Texas for some absolute Bay-hem, it's time for Armageddon! They discuss it's origins, it's fierce competition with Deep Impact (and Godzilla), Ben Affleck's teeth and the usefulness of miniguns in space!   There's regular features Suspicious Spin offs, and alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and the usual bad impressions.    Basically, it's the worst parts of the Bible...    Enjoy Retro Ramble? Then please leave a review or spread the word!   Want more? Why not check out our Patreon channel at www.patreon.com/retroramble   Retro Ramble 2023

In this month's episode, Charlie and George shrink themselves down to microscopic size to venture into the sci-fi comedy territory that is Innerspace! The brothers are back in the 1980s to revisit the Joe Dante-directed, Spielberg-produced cult classic!  It's a nostalgic look back where they discuss everything from the serious spy movie origins to last-minute casting, impressive special effects, and some inspired improv!   What are your thoughts on Innerspace? Let us know in the comments!   Interested to find out what Charlie & George think of more recent cinema/streaming releases? Then be sure to subscribe below for extra episodes every month: www.patreon.com/retroramble   Retro Ramble 2023

We finally did it! Our 100th episode!  It's a big occasion for such a significant number, firstly, it's Christmas and we're covering family favourite, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation from 1989!   Secondly, we are joined by two special guests, John and James Glendinning, our oldest friends and first neighbours!  Their names have cropped up in a lot of previous episodes, as many of the films we've covered were introduced to us by the Glendinnings - so you could say they were part of Retro Ramble's origins!    We discuss Christmas traditions, dealing with difficult relations and a stand-out performance from Chevy Chase - it's gonna be something nice, real nice!   It was a delight to catch up with John and James and reminisce about films in general, we talked for so long, we'll likely post an extended chat on our Patreon channel in the near future - patreon.com/retroramble

It is December and with the end of the year upon us Charlie and George have as usual taken a look back at all the juicy (and not so juicy) releases 2022 has offered.  As the world and more specifically the movie release calendar continues to recover from the pandemic this year sees more traffic coming via streaming services than cinema releases.  We should stress that many of the big hits have already been covered in Recent Ramble episodes available on our Patreon channel so if you'd like a longer look at titles such as Top Gun: Maverick, Prey, The Gray Man etc, be sure to head over to www.patreon.com/retroramble. We still have our mighty 100th episode to follow in time for Christmas so be sure to keep an eye out for that arriving in the next few days! Enjoy and please share! Retro Ramble 2022

To celebrate the release of the new Willow series on Disney+, George and Charlie take a Retro Ramble on the original 1988 classic. The brothers revisit the 80s fantasy classic and cover everything from the team-up of Ron Howard and George Lucas, to the similarities with that OTHER Lucas franchise and of course, the crazy sex parties that may have occurred, just ask Ron Howard..... Not sure if the new series is for you? Can't remember the original? Then be sure to check out and PLEASE SHARE with like-minded folk! Retro Ramble 2022

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are heading to a dark and rainy Detroit to revisit the gothic cult classic, The Crow. They discuss the film's comic book origins as well as it's troubled and ultimately tragic production. They also cover the film's legacy with many, many suspicious spin-offs and a long gestating remake.   What are you waiting for? Fire it up, fire it up!!    

In this month's episode, Charlie and George boldly go where plenty of other podcasts have been, they review Star Trek II - The Wrath of Khan!  It's the film's 40th anniversary and the first time they've ventured into Trek-territory, fortunately, they're not alone as they're joined by author, animator and Star Trek fan, Niel Bushnell!   Expect discussions of why the film is such a beloved entry in the franchise, cost-cutting cinematic trickery, that ending and fond memories of a limited Betamax collection!   It was a pleasure to have Niel on the pod, we encourage you to check out his work or even better, purchase one of his audiobooks and novels! Of all the souls we've encountered on the podcast, his was the most... human!   http://www.nielbushnell.com/      

In this month's episode, Charlie and George fly to Utah in their stealth jet (they were big in the 90s) to review John Woo's Broken Arrow!  The brothers discuss slo-mo, Hans Zimmer, exploding helicopters and John Travolta devouring the gorgeous scenery in the first of his many OTT villains.   For extra episodes, why not check out our Patreon channel? 

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to Eternia (but only briefly for budget reasons) to review the cult curiosity that is Masters of The Universe! It's a nostalgic trip back as the brothers reminisce about the toys and one of George's first cinema outings! They discuss how the toyline behemoth became one of Cannon Film's most expensive productions, as well as casting, creative accounting and liberally borrowing from bigger (and better) blockbusters.   There's plenty to discuss in Suspicious Spin Offs, from aborted sequels to faltering reboots.    Good journey!  

In this month's episode, Charlie and George head back to ancient Rome (via the Millenium), for the star-studded, action-packed, swords and sandals epic, Gladiator!   They discuss the film's troubled production, effective use of CGI and the film's impact on DVD. There's also alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, discussions on a (still in development) sequel and the impact on the genre as a whole in the following decades.   Are you not entertained? Let us know on our social channels!   Looking for more Ramblings? Why not check out our Patreon channel for bonus film reviews and specials - https://www.patreon.com/retroramble

In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to sweaty Miramar, for one of the 1980's biggest films, Top Gun!  In celebration of the release of Top Gun: Maverick, the brothers revisit the classic Bruckheimer/Simpson blockbuster that made Tom Cruise the movie star and aviators the must-have sunglasses. They chat production background, involving real Top Gun pilots, casting stories, romantic reshoots and of course, the power of Kenny Loggins.  After more sweaty Top Gun action? Then sign up to our Patreon channel to hear our spoiler-filled thoughts on Top Gun: Maverick as well as Charlie's reaction to attending the Royal Premiere -   https://www.patreon.com/retroramble

In this month's episode, Charlie and George travel back to 1993 (or is it 1881?) and saddle up for their first western, the action and actor-packed, Tombstone!    They discuss the film's troubled production, including ghost directors, alternate casting and the rivalry with a similar project headed by one Kevin Costner. They also discuss the massive star-studded cast, real moustaches and delve into what actually happened at the OK Corral!   Further reading - the True West article that is referenced can be found here - https://truewestmagazine.com/article/the-western-godfather/

In this month's special - it's a tribute to the late Ivan Reitman, with two comedy classics starring our good friend Arnie - it's Twins and Kindergarten Cop! The brothers go into detail on the production background of both films, revealing how one became Arnie's most profitable film! There's also time for alternative casting, suspicious spin-offs, ferret trivia and enough Arnie impressions to give you a headache (not a tumour)!   Need more Retro Ramble in your life/ears? Why not check out our Patreon page, where you can get a bonus episode each month for the price of a coffee! https://www.patreon.com/retroramble    

In this month's episode, Charlie and George beam back to 1996 to tackle one of the biggest blockbusters of the 90s - it's Independence Day!   With Roland Emmerich trying to destroy the Earth (yet again) in his latest disaster flick, Moonfall, the boys thought it apt to revisit his biggest hit.   They talk controversial casting, novelization tie-ins, and the most pressing question; who would win a squint off between Robert Loggia and Bill Pullman?!   Do you need more Retro Ramble in your life? Why not check out our Patreon channel? With just a small amount of support, you can get an extra episode of Rambley goodness, every month!    Patreon Exclusives include: Road House (Retro Ramble Revelations) Spider-Man: No Way Home (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special) The Matrix Resurrections (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special) No Time To Die (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special)   Enjoy, and please share!   Retro Ramble 2022

In this month's episode, Charlie and George head to Woodsboro to watch a scary movie, namely the original Scream! The boys revisit the late nineties horror which gave the genre a much-needed shock. They talk the bidding war for Kevin Williamson's hot script, winning over horror legend Wes Craven and some ill advised studio meddling. Along the way, there's casting shake-ups in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, a brief discussion on the new wave of the horror films that followed and of course, some bad impressions "Do you like scary movies?"

In this month's festive special, Charlie and George head to Philadelphia to review classic comedy, Trading Places! The film is McGhee family favourite and as such, the brothers are joined by their dad, Ray McGhee, aka Ray Ray, in his first podcast appearance! They discuss the films origins, controversial casting and their favourite comedies of the 1980's. As usual, there's alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, some strong language and the odd bad impression. "5 dollars? Maybe I could go to the movies....by myself!"

In this month's episode, Charlie and George head out to the Russian wilderness to train for the fight that could end the Cold War - yes, it's time to revisit Rocky IV! As Sylvester Stallone's director cut Rocky vs Drago is released, the brothers revisit the original cut of the biggest Rocky film to see why it's so beloved by many. They discuss the film's production, from casting the then-unknown Dolph Lundgren, real ringside rumbles, the power of a montage (or two or three) and the various screen appearances of SICO aka Paulie's robot girlfriend. Enjoy, and please share! Retro Ramble 2021   Copyright Notice: All copyright material remains the property of the original copyright holder and all clips and audio samples have been used only as a reference and as part of a review in line with Creative Commons FAIR USE policy. All Audio Clips, Trailers and Soundtrack usage remains the property of the film studios & recording studios and has only be used for this episode.

In this month's episode, it's time for another Halloween special, with Charlie and George heading from the Yorkshire Moors to revisit An American Werewolf in London! In celebration of the horror comedy's 40th anniversary, the brothers discuss 80s London, some very surreal nightmare sequences and  groundbreaking make up and special effects! As usual there's some alternate casting in coulda woulda shoulda as well as Suspicious Spin Offs. But remember, beware the moon, stick to the road and stay off the Moors!

In this month's episode, Charlie and George slap on the war paint and suit up for cult classic Arnie actioner - Commando! The boys cover the film's more grounded origins before discussing how it would go on to create the Arnie Action Formula, as well as competing with Stallone and Rambo First Blood Part 2. There's also chat about a certain flamboyant villain of the film and his questionable relationship to Matrix... Finally we also spend some time with last month's guest, Timon Singh to get some extra trivia!

In this month's podcast special, Charlie and George get nasty and talk villains with author, podcaster and filmmaker, Timon Singh! The brothers talk to Timon about his books Born to Be Bad and Born to Be Bad Part 2, where he interviews the greatest villains of 80s and 90s cinema! Timon's books are recommended reading for Retro Ramble listeners, as they include interviews with the likes of Vernon Wells (Commando), Ronny Cox (Total Recall, Robocop), Martin Kove (The Karate Kid) and Robert Partick (Terminator 2) amongst many others!  The brothers also find time to also discuss Timon's other ventures, hosting the Bristol Bad Film Club, the documentary he produced, In Search of The Last Action Heroes, and his thoughts on the current state of action cinema. Twitter: @TimonSingh Facebook: www.facebook.com/BornToBeBadBook