Actor and musician Philip Labes brings together talented improvisors and musicians to create the musical version of a popular or classic movie — with dialogue, music, and lyrics made up right on the spot!
The Musical Version podcast, hosted by the talented Philip Labes, is an absolute gem in the world of improv podcasts. With each episode taking on beloved movies like The Matrix and Alien, this show never fails to entertain with its hilarious musical numbers and fantastic guest appearances. Labes brings a unique blend of heart and pizzazz to every musical, making him an excellent host that effortlessly guides listeners through the delightful reimagining of these well-known films. Moreover, the quality of musicians featured on this podcast is undeniably high, adding another layer of excellence to an already outstanding show. Without a doubt, The Musical Version is one of the best improv podcasts out there.
One of the best aspects of The Musical Version podcast is undoubtedly its hilarious musical numbers. Labes and his talented friends bring their sharpest wit and comedic timing to create songs that are not only entertaining but often laugh-out-loud funny. These musical numbers add a whole new dimension to the familiar stories, injecting them with fresh energy and humor that keeps listeners engaged throughout each episode. Additionally, Labes' ability to gather amazing guests further elevates the enjoyment factor of this podcast. The chemistry between Labes and his guests shines through in their performances, making for truly delightful experiences.
While The Musical Version is undoubtedly an exceptional podcast, there are a few aspects that may not resonate with all listeners. Firstly, given that it is an improv-based show, some episodes may lack a polished feel or consistent pacing. This can occasionally lead to moments where jokes or musical numbers fall flat or drag on longer than necessary. However, it's important to remember that this spontaneity is part of what makes improv so exciting and unpredictable. Furthermore, as with any comedy-based podcast, humor is subjective; what may appeal to one listener might not land as well for another.
In conclusion, The Musical Version podcast offers a hilarious and highly entertaining experience for fans of improv comedy and musical theater. Philip Labes' talent as a comedian, musician, and improviser shines through in every episode, as he leads the charge in reimagining beloved movies with heart and creativity. While there may be moments where pacing or jokes miss the mark for some listeners, the overall quality of this podcast is undeniable. If you're looking for a fun-filled experience that combines comedy, music, and movie nostalgia, The Musical Version is an absolute must-listen.
With Jack Norman and Jiavani! It's the very first FILMED episode! The Musical Version is even more fun to watch on our new YouTube page. Be our first subscriber? Be sure to also follow our Instagram and TikTok. Don't miss our upcoming live show THIS FRIDAY, which you can livestream from anywhere! Please note, this episode got a bit wild, parental caution is advised etc!
Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals! Watch the live taping of this episode and many more at the new home for TMV video content, PhilipLabes.com/TheMusicalVersion. Check out upcoming live shows here. You can also subscribe to our new TikTok account! Thanks for a wonderful 2023! See you next year!
You’re a wizard Harry… a wild, fast-paced montage of the first Harry Potter film with a raucous, sold-out crowd! Featuring Mary Lou, Jiavani, Jack Norman, and Sara Caplan. Catch our next live show, TMV: Avengers Endgame — on 7/21/2023. I’m going on tour across the US! See if I’m coming to your city here: https://philiplabes.com/tour
“And may the odds be ever in your favor…” Taped live at UCB Los Angeles in May 2023. You can see the next live show 6/16/23 at UCB LA!
And in case I don’t see ya… good afternoon, good evening, and goodnight!
Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster is now a musical! With songs like “The One-Two-Threes Of Bungee Jumping” and “Nothing Bad Happens In The Van That Carries The Plutonium,” this episode makes JUST as much sense as the movie! Thanks Gummer!
Hello, old friend! After a long hiatus, The Musical Version is back! I’m joined by Naomi Murden & Greg Smith for the first film of the Harry Potter series. Find out why no one is allowed in Hagrid’s shed, if McGonagall will ever address her gambling addiction, and just where Annie Leibovitz fits in.
It’s time to get away with “One Last Heist” — with hits like “I’m Gonna Cuck The Man That Stole My Wife” and of course “The Heist Was A Lie (Reprise).” Start spreading the news!
Our audience picked the movie! With songs like “We Gotta Steal Some NBA Players” and “Put Dynamite Straight Up Your Butt” maybe all your day needs it a helping of “Mike’s Magic Stuff!” Come catch TMV live this week! Thursday 1/16 at 10pm Second City Hollywood w/ Dan Lippert & Jess McKenna
Our first live show! With hits like “Welcome To The House of Woodcock” as well as “Bad B*tch in the 1950s” and “Repressed and Having Fun,” this show will have you wondering if we’re geniuses or REALLY pretentious! Taped live at UCB Sunset in Los Angeles on 1/3/2020. Two more chances this month to catch … Continue reading Phantom Thread (w/ Ross Bryant & Ashley Ward) LIVE at UCB LA →
Anything can happen when the Santa Ana winds blow, including the musical version of the only holiday movie that skips Christmas entirely — The Holiday! Featuring hits like “I’m Too Hot To Be Dangerous,” “My Wife is Dead,” and the universally relatable “At The Writer’s Guild of America West!” Musical starts at 10:50
“I’m your number one fan, Paul…” Annie Wilkes traps writer Paul Sheldon in her home in this delightfully creepy musical version of the Steven King horror, featuring songs like “There’s No Dignity in Swear-Words Paul,” “Anything Can Happen In Coco Beach,” and “Yellin’ Lady!”
Nobody puts Baby in the corner!
Day-o! The musical take on Tim Burton’s Halloween classic includes hits like “They’re Ghosh!” “A Radio For Me,” and “Give Me A Squeeze of Your Beetlejuice.” Just don’t sing his name three times!
In space no one can hear you SING!
Saving the day is a family business! It’s Brad Bird’s animated hit, now with songs like “I’ve Been Watching You,” “A La (Edna) Mode,” and eleven o’clock number “Baby Justice League Likes Men’s Rights.” Let’s go save the city!
Martin Scorsese’s mob epic gets the musical treatment this week, with such hits as “I’m In…Construction,” “You Gotta Kill ‘Em With A ‘Lil Personality,” and of course “Mafia Moms,” this is a show for the whole “family.”
Yo Ho Ho! A grown up Peter Pan must rescue his children from the dastardly Jas Hook in the musical version of the delightful Robin Williams/Dustin Hoffman film. Featuring songs like “BTL (Big Time Lawyer)” and “Don’t You Love your Pirate Parents?” and the surprising tender “Love Love You”, this musical will have you saying … Continue reading Hook (w/ Angela Giarratana & Jesse Kruger) →
Run Forrest Run! This musical retelling of the Tom Hanks film has hits like “Shrimp’s Good, You Gotta Eat Shrimp”, “I’m Good At Army Stuff”, “Let Me Die, I’m Lieutenant Dan” and the delightful duet “Happy New Year (From Two Random Strangers).” Your ears and this episode go together like Baked Potato and Sour Cream!
Miles Morales has to become SpiderMan to save the multiverse! This hip-hop heavy musical SWINGS with songs like “Not Yet A (Spider)Man”, “Metal In My Back feat. Dr. Octopus” as well as villain ballad “Strike! There Goes The Kingpin.” Brought to you by Koca-Soda.
Kay & Jay work for the best-kept secret in the universe– and they gotta sing about it! With SO MANY amazing songs like “Give Me Some Sugar, Sugar”, “Creepy Creepy Men (In Black)”, and the surprising “Quahog Dogs”, this marks the second consecutive episode with Family Guy based songs! Also not to be missed– Zeke, … Continue reading Men In Black (w/ Zeke Nicholson & Greg Smith) →
Billy McFarland and Ja Rule can’t be stopped! A terribly dark look into our own sinister desires for wealth, fame, and power, featuring songs like “Aw Fuck (Jerry)” and “Dick for Water.” You’ll never look at a bottle of Evian the same way again.
What is the Matrix? Philip, Ashley and Chris try to find out! Featuring sci-fi tunes like “Hacking In Da Club” and “One Pill, Two Pill, Red Bill, Blue Pill” and WHO could forget “Joe Pantoliano Wants to Be A Cabaret Singer” you may just learn that The Matrix is all that and a bag of chips!
Featuring catchy numbers like “Rub My Legs/Give Me An Estate” and “A Dry, Slow, Frictionless Rub”, aristocracy gets saucy in this week’s musical version of Yorgos Lanthimos’s dramedy. Who knew juggling was such a crucial part of power struggles in Victorian England?
Woody, Buzz, and Bo-Peep get into some extremely NSFW shenanigans. And for some reason, The Devil shows up!? Featuring songs like “Buzz Lightyear: Sex Machine”, “Welcome To Sid’s Evil Workshop” and the immortal classic “I’ve Got A Woody”, you’ll receive a heartwarming reminder of why “You’ve Got A Cuck In Me.” Musical starts at 2:25.