American actor and comedian
POPULARITY
Categories
Send us a text or a voicemailA reckless Patreon Supporter goes dangerously rogue to catch a group of hardened podcasters. He explores a corrupt world where the lines between fantasy and reality completely blur. On Episode 724 of Trick or Treat Radio we are joined by Joshua Libre for the June Patreon Takeover! Josh has selected the films; To Live and Die in L.A. from director William Friedkin, and The Convent (2000) from director Mike Mendez for us to discuss! We also find out what a four robot lion Voltron would look like, learn what horrifying selections have been curated on our Tubi recommendations, and we react to trailers for the films; Fall 2: Deadpoint, and Night Nurse. So grab your bags of neon blood, make sure to have unique serial numbers on your counterfeit money, and strap on for the world's most dangerous podcast!Stuff we talk about: George A. Romero, Day of the Dead, Tom Savini, Scream Factory, Cine-Strange, AI upscaling, Voltron, forming the blazing sword, a one-armed Jack Palance push-up, City Slickers, Rescue from Gilligan's Island, Martin Landau, The Professionals, Qui-Gon Libre, The Covenant, Tubi or not Tubi, Megan is Missing, Salo, Massage Parlor Murders, Debbie Does Demons, A Clockwork Shining, Donald Farmer, 8 1/2, Fellini, Amityville Spa, Bob Kraft, Donna Speir, Ted Lasso, World Cup, The Oblong Box, E.T. The Extraterrestrial, Humongus, Witchcraft 4: The Virgin Heart, Jurassic Park, Blink, The Chronicles of Riddick, Open Water, The Stepford Wives, The Originals, The Vampire Diaries, Shia Lebouf, The Transformers, Joshua Jackson, Shutter, Fringe, The Facts of Life, being a Cloney, Peter Dinklage, The Toxic Avenger, Adrienne Barbeau, The Fog, Creepshow, Escape From New York, Open House, Back to School, Young Frankenstein, Gene Wilder, Richard Todd, The House of Long Shadows, Sly Stallone, Fall 2: Deadpoint, The Spierig Brothers, My Bloody Valentine, Undead, Bad Taste, Night Nurse, Masters of the Universe, Wang Chun, Laura Branigan, To Live and Die in L.A., Willem Dafoe, William Friedkin, William Peterson, Michael Mann, Cruising, Al Pacino, Sorcerer, Sirat, American Ninja, Dead Stockwell, Quantum Leap, Steve James, Griffin Dunne, Asia Argento, the history of the Secret Service, Invasion USA, Die Hard, Cobra, Barton Fink, John Turturro, Oliver Stone, Natural Born Killers, John McTiernan, Neon Demons, The Convent, Mike Mendez, Dead Alive, Evil Dead II, Night of the Demons, Nunsploitation, Hokum, Patreon Takeover, Iron Lung, Backrooms, CSI DSO, Brian May, I'm Prince Albert Prince of Eternia, Nipsey Muscle, and the details are a lie.Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/trickortreatradioJoin our Discord Community: discord.trickortreatradio.comSend Email/Voicemail: mailto:podcast@trickortreatradio.comVisit our website: http://trickortreatradio.comStart your own podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=386Use our Amazon link: http://amzn.to/2CTdZzKFB Group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/trickortreatradioTwitter: http://twitter.com/TrickTreatRadioFacebook: http://facebook.com/TrickOrTreatRadioYouTube: http://youtube.com/TrickOrTreatRadioInstagram: http://instagram.com/TrickorTreatRadioSupport the show
National Corn on the cob day. Entertainment from 2004. Worst accident in motorsports history, 1st horse racing triple crown winner, Great Barrier reef discovered by white guys. Todays birthdays - Jacques Cousteau, Gene Wilder, Adrienne Barbeau, Graham Russell, Donnie Van Zant, Hugh Laurie, Peter Dinklage, Shia Labeouf. John Wayne died.Intro - God did good - Dianna Corcoran https://www.diannacorcoran.com/Corn Cobb - Parry GrippBurn - UsherRedneck Woman - Gretchen WilsonBirthdays - In da club - 50 Cent http://50cent.com/All out of love - Air SupplyCaught up in you - 38 SpecialExit - Hangover town - Kyle Daniel https://www.kyledanielmusic.com/History & Factoids about today Playlist on SpotifyHistory & Factoids about today webpagecooolmedia.comcountryundergroundradio.comNational Days - May Puzzle BookGrace & Grit Christian Country Radio
This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories looks at God's gift of laughter—and how Jewish comedians have helped bring joy, resilience, and connection to American life.We begin with the Marx Brothers, a family of immigrant performers whose quick wit, physical comedy, and unforgettable characters helped define American humor. In times of hardship and uncertainty, their laughter offered something more than entertainment—it offered relief, creativity, and even healing.Next, we meet Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner, two performers whose comedy made audiences laugh while also touching the heart. From The Producers to Saturday Night Live, their work reflected a uniquely human kind of humor—one rooted in vulnerability, love, and the ability to bring light into life's hardest moments.Finally, we hear a personal reflection on Adam Sandler, a comedian whose work has connected generations. From the playful humor of his early career to the deeper themes in his later roles, Sandler's voice has helped make Jewish identity visible, relatable, and joyful—reminding us that laughter can build bridges in unexpected ways.These stories remind us that laughter is more than just humor. It's resilience. It's connection. And sometimes, it's exactly what we need to carry us through—and bring us closer together.To learn more about God's people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship's Learn Center.
On this episode of THE HOT MIC, John Rocha and Jeff Sneider talk Hollywood's growing obsession with AI, why they love Backrooms and Obsession and if they'll learn the right lessons, did Justin Kuritzkes write Spider Man BND, Scorsese AI news and Boots Riley's reaction, Backrooms and Scary Movie reviews, How to Rob a Bank, Onslaught, Ice Cream Man and By Any Means trailers, Barbarella remake going forward with Sydney Sweeney, Gene Wilder biopic is happening, Zack Synder directing Escape from New York remake, Sneider's thoughts on Euphoria's season, The Odyssey is rated R, and more!HOT MIC MERCH LINK: https://www.bestnametape.com/The-Hot-Mic-Shop-s/4592.htm#backrooms #AI #christophernolan #TheOdyssey #Hollywood #Marvel #Spiderman #Mastersof theUniverse #Netflix #Disney #TheHotMic #JeffSneider #JohnRocha ____________________________________________________________________________________Chapters:0:00 Intro and Rundown2:53 Netflix Pauses Denzel Washington, Antoine Fuqua 'Hannibal" Movie8:48 Paramount Responds To Subscribers Lawsuit to Block Merger11:06 Hollywood Embraces AI with Martin Scorsese vs Boots Riley Over It25:35 Did Justin Kuritzkes Punch Up the Spider-Man Brand New Day Script?29:34 Sneider's Thoughts on Euphoria Series Finale36:45 Quentin Tarantino Calls Out Recent Movies and Their Quality41:13 Scary Movie 6 Review, Masters of the Universe Review49:56 Onslaught, Supergirl, How To Rob a Bank Trailers54:49 Zack Snyder Rebooting Escape From New York58:40 Hollywood Embracing YouTube After Backrooms, Indie Navarette's Oscars Chances1:10:41 Our Draft of the Best Modern Horror Directors1:38:30 Streamlabs and Superchat QuestionsFollow John Rocha: @therochasays Follow Jeff Sneider: @TheInSneider Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-hot-mic-with-jeff-sneider-and-john-rocha--5632767/support.
A$AP Rocky speaks out after the shooting in front of his & Rihanna's home, Taylor Swift is inviting Karli Kloss and Listerine mouthwash is offering "spice levels."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This bonus episode for our season on the awesome movie year of 1971 features Mel Stuart's Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Directed by Mel Stuart and starring Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum and Jack Albertson, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is based on the novel by Roald Dahl.The contemporary reviews quoted in this episode come from Roger Ebert (https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/willy-wonka-and-the-chocolate-factory-1971), Howard Thompson in The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/1971/07/01/archives/chocolate-factory.html), and Tony Mastroianni in the Cleveland Press.Check out more info and the entire archive of past episodes at https://www.awesomemovieyear.com and visit us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/awesomemovieyearYou can find Jason on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JHarrisComedy/, on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jasonharriscomedy/ and on Letterboxd at https://letterboxd.com/goforjason/You can find Josh online at http://joshbellhateseverything.com/, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/joshbellhateseverything/, on Bluesky at signalbleed.bsky.social and on Letterboxd at https://letterboxd.com/signalbleed/If you're a Letterboxd user and you watch any of the movies we talk about on the show, tag your review “Awesome Movie Year” to share your thoughts.You can find our producer David Rosen and his Piecing It Together Podcast at https://www.piecingpod.com, on Twitter at @piecingpod, on Bluesky at piecingpod.bsky.social and on Letterboxd at https://letterboxd.com/bydavidrosen/Join the Popcorn & Puzzle Pieces Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/piecingpod for more movie discussion and our Awesome Movie Year audience choice polls.All of the music in the episode is by David Rosen. Find more of his music at https://www.bydavidrosen.comSubscribe on Patreon to support the show and get access to exclusive content from Awesome Movie Year and Piecing It Together, plus music by David Rosen: https://www.patreon.com/bydavidrosenPlease like, share, rate and comment on the show and this episode, and tune in for future episodes.
Moon is finally back from Europe... barely.After rocking massive Goldfinger shows in England, Moon thought he was headed home with some great vacation stories. Instead, he found himself trapped in a German airport nightmare involving missed connections, endless lines, angry travelers, confused airline employees, and enough frustration to test the patience of a saint. If you've ever been stranded while traveling, you'll feel every second of this story.Of course, this being The Rizzuto Show, we can't simply discuss international travel like normal adults.Before Moon can even finish explaining how he got stuck in Frankfurt, the conversation somehow derails into an in-depth investigation of nose hair trimming technology. Which trimmer works best? Which one is lying to you? Can any of them actually reach the mysterious "front cave" region of your nostrils? Important questions are asked. Very few are answered.Moon also shares stories from London, Paris, the European heat wave, questionable airport experiences, and the realization that saving money on flights sometimes costs your sanity. Along the way, the gang debates the worst possible movies to watch while flying on a German airline, and somehow turns Saving Private Ryan into an accidental international incident.Meanwhile, back in St. Louis, the crew talks about the vandalism at Steve's Hot Dogs and why supporting local businesses matters when they're already battling construction, rising costs, and random acts of destruction. The conversation then drifts into National Hot Dog Day planning because apparently that's how professional broadcasters handle serious topics.And just when you think things couldn't get any weirder...A Maryland Heights Hooters becomes the setting for one of the most bizarre crime stories imaginable. Let's just say one customer took "dining in" a little too literally. The crew breaks down the unbelievable details and wonders how someone ends up making that series of life decisions.Also in this episode:Moon's European vacation recapThe great nose hair trimmer debateGerman airport survival tacticsTravel horror storiesSt. Louis hot dog newsGas price hunting strategiesForest Park getting national recognitionStrange airline movie choicesHooters headlines nobody asked forThe usual daily chaos from Rizz and the gangIf you enjoy sarcastic humor, ridiculous travel disasters, bizarre news stories, and a group of friends getting distracted every five seconds, this episode delivers exactly what you'd expect from your favorite daily comedy show.Thanks for making The Rizzuto Show part of your day. Whether you're listening at work, in traffic, or while aggressively researching nose hair trimmers, we're glad you're here.The daily comedy show continues with another episode full of travel fails, unexpected detours, weird news, and the kind of conversations that probably shouldn't happen on a morning radio show.Moon got rejected by the Blue Angels. That's right. After years of dreaming about flying with the legendary flight team, filling out paperwork, getting medical forms completed, and generally doing everything he was supposed to do (allegedly), the Navy said, "Nah." The crew spends way too much time trying to figure out who got the spot instead, throwing out names ranging from Cardinals legends to local celebrities and basically anybody who isn't Moon.Then things somehow get even weirder.The gang debates one of the most ridiculous music questions ever created: if you could only listen to one genre for an entire year, would you choose mumble rap, post-9/11 patriotic country, Christian death metal, or AI-generated EDM? The answers reveal way more about everyone's personalities than anyone intended, and somehow Christian death metal becomes the surprise hero of the conversation.In Crap On Celebrities, the celebrity chaos is firing on all cylinders. Diddy drama takes another bizarre turn, Sabrina Carpenter gets a restraining order against an alleged stalker who apparently thought hiding in a Prius was a good plan, Taylor Swift fans once again convince themselves they're decoding secret messages from the universe, and The Black Crowes find themselves at the center of a USA chant controversy.The crew also dives into the latest music news, including Mick Jagger somehow still having more energy than people half his age, a Gene Wilder biopic that already has everyone fan-casting, and the ongoing debate about whether Val Kilmer was a misunderstood genius or simply impossible to work with.Then comes the emotional destruction.A list of the most heartbreaking animal moments in movie history sends everyone spiraling. From Artax sinking into the Swamp of Sadness in The NeverEnding Story, to Mufasa's death in The Lion King, to Homeward Bound, Fox and the Hound, I Am Legend, and more childhood trauma than any morning radio show should legally be allowed to revisit before noon. If you've ever cried because of a fictional animal, prepare to relive every painful second.It's another completely normal day with The Rizzuto Show, which means absolutely nothing is normal.The gang welcomes Ashley Vogt and NHL veteran Jamie Rivers into the studio to celebrate two massive life events: a surprise Nashville engagement and the launch of Synergy Integrated Healthcare. But before anyone can get sentimental, the show immediately derails into a debate about throwing apple cores out of moving vehicles and whether that technically makes you a criminal. Spoiler alert: Missouri law apparently has thoughts.Meanwhile, Moon relives the heartbreak of being passed over for a coveted Blue Angels flight after thinking he was officially cleared for takeoff. The crew spends an alarming amount of time trying to figure out who could possibly be worthy of stealing his seat. Steve Ewing? John Goodman? Wayne Gretzky? Andy Cohen? The investigation continues.As if that wasn't enough, the crew checks in on the internet-famous guy attempting to live in a room for an entire year while livestreaming the experience. He's lost weight, picked up hobbies, and somehow still has fewer viewers than some houseplants on social media. The discussion quickly turns into a philosophical debate about personal sacrifice, family life, and whether staying locked in a room sounds like punishment or a vacation.Then comes Alpha-Gal Syndrome, the tick-borne condition that could potentially rob meat lovers of everything they hold dear. Lern takes a suspicious amount of joy in imagining a future where Riz can't eat meatballs in Europe, while the rest of the room tries desperately not to anger the tick gods.Follow The Rizzuto Show → https://linktr.ee/rizzshow for more from your favorite daily comedy show.Connect with The Rizzuto Show Comedy Podcast online → https://1057thepoint.com/RizzShowHear The Rizz Show daily on the radio at 105.7 The Point | Hubbard Radio in St. Louis, MO.Serial exposer charged for indecent act at Maryland Heights HootersForest Park Named Best City Park in the USA…Again!Outdoor balloon releases illegal in Louisiana starting in AugustSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today's episode of The Rizzuto Show starts with a devastating tragedy that may require federal intervention, congressional hearings, and at least three strongly worded emails: Moon got rejected by the Blue Angels. That's right. After years of dreaming about flying with the legendary flight team, filling out paperwork, getting medical forms completed, and generally doing everything he was supposed to do (allegedly), the Navy said, "Nah." The crew spends way too much time trying to figure out who got the spot instead, throwing out names ranging from Cardinals legends to local celebrities and basically anybody who isn't Moon.Then things somehow get even weirder.The gang debates one of the most ridiculous music questions ever created: if you could only listen to one genre for an entire year, would you choose mumble rap, post-9/11 patriotic country, Christian death metal, or AI-generated EDM? The answers reveal way more about everyone's personalities than anyone intended, and somehow Christian death metal becomes the surprise hero of the conversation.In Crap On Celebrities, the celebrity chaos is firing on all cylinders. Diddy drama takes another bizarre turn, Sabrina Carpenter gets a restraining order against an alleged stalker who apparently thought hiding in a Prius was a good plan, Taylor Swift fans once again convince themselves they're decoding secret messages from the universe, and The Black Crowes find themselves at the center of a USA chant controversy.The crew also dives into the latest music news, including Mick Jagger somehow still having more energy than people half his age, a Gene Wilder biopic that already has everyone fan-casting, and the ongoing debate about whether Val Kilmer was a misunderstood genius or simply impossible to work with.Then comes the emotional destruction.A list of the most heartbreaking animal moments in movie history sends everyone spiraling. From Artax sinking into the Swamp of Sadness in The NeverEnding Story, to Mufasa's death in The Lion King, to Homeward Bound, Fox and the Hound, I Am Legend, and more childhood trauma than any morning radio show should legally be allowed to revisit before noon. If you've ever cried because of a fictional animal, prepare to relive every painful second.It's another completely normal day with The Rizzuto Show, which means absolutely nothing is normal.Whether you're here for celebrity gossip, weird news, movie nostalgia, music debates, or Moon's ongoing battle against aviation-related disappointment, this daily comedy show delivers the perfect mix of laughs, chaos, and emotional damage.Thanks for making us part of your morning. Seriously. We have no idea how you've tolerated us this long.If you're looking for a daily comedy show that somehow combines military aviation drama, celebrity scandals, death metal discussions, and childhood trauma into one episode, congratulations—you've found it.And if you're already a fan of this daily comedy show, you know exactly what kind of beautiful disaster you're about to hear.Follow The Rizzuto Show → https://linktr.ee/rizzshow for more from your favorite daily comedy show.Connect with The Rizzuto Show Comedy Podcast online → https://1057thepoint.com/RizzShowHear The Rizz Show daily on the radio at 105.7 The Point | Hubbard Radio in St. Louis, MO.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE reviews are finally here and the reactions are pouring in! Kristian Harloff breaks down the first Rotten Tomatoes scores and reviews for the highly anticipated He-Man movie from Amazon MGM Studios. Are critics embracing Nicholas Galitzine's He-Man and Jared Leto's Skeletor, or are there cracks in the Power of Grayskull? Plus, new details emerge about Jared Leto's performance as Skeletor as the Masters of the Universe director reveals whether the actor was actually on set for key scenes. What does this mean for the future of the franchise and the film's visual effects? Also on today's show, Tom Holland reveals that he'd love to make an R-rated Spider-Man appearance, sparking speculation about Spider-Man's future in the MCU and beyond. Could we eventually see a darker version of Peter Parker on screen? In other movie news, a Gene Wilder biopic is officially in development, bringing the legendary actor's incredible career back into the spotlight. Kristian discusses who could play the iconic star of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Young Frankenstein, and Blazing Saddles. And finally, the long-awaited Barbarella remake is officially moving forward. What does this mean for the classic sci-fi property, and can a modern version capture the spirit of the original? #MastersoftheUniverse #HeMan #Skeletor #TomHolland #SpiderMan #GeneWilder #Barbarella #MovieNews #KristianHarloff #MCU #AmazonMGM #EntertainmentNews SPONSORS: LIQUID IV: Go to https://www.LIQUIDIV.com and get 20% off your first purchase with code KRISTIAN at checkout RUGIET: Head to https://www.rugiet.com/KRISTIAN and get 15% off your ED treatment. HIMS: Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://www.hims.com/KRISTIAN to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. - Based on advertised cash price for 30-day supply of medication only. Membership required, fee not included, and billed separately. Weight Loss by Hims is not available in all 50 states. Wegovy® is the registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A.S. To get started and learn more, including important safety information, Wegovy® clinical study information, and restrictions, visit https://www.hims.com
America's Got Talent is still rolling! Euphoria is officially over. Gene Wilder's “grandson” needs to play him in the biopic. Sabrina Carpenter takes on a stalker. Do you like puppies and soccer? Then hopefully you have an LG TV! Scott Budman is on the show! Anthropic and SpaceX are going public! Should we buy it? Well, AI isn't making money yet. And our most burning question… is Scott calling in from the shower again?
Hour 1: Taylor Swift and Jack Antonoff have reunited for a new country song for Toy Story 5. Adam Sandler is in town! His next movie sounds interesting. ‘Backrooms' is taking the world by storm. What should Sarah do next with her hair? A high school principal has been put on administrative leave over a yearbook scandal. The gang thinks there's more going on here than meets the eye. It reminds Bob of yearbook drama from back in her day. Man, middle school is the worst. Hour 2: America's Got Talent is still rolling! Euphoria is officially over. Gene Wilder's “grandson” needs to play him in the biopic. Sabrina Carpenter takes on a stalker. Do you like puppies and soccer? Then hopefully you have an LG TV! Scott Budman is on the show! Anthropic and SpaceX are going public! Should we buy it? Well, AI isn't making money yet. And our most burning question… is Scott calling in from the shower again? Hour 3: What's going on in Ariana Grande's new music video? Let's play a game: Did these celebrities get replaced because they were fired, quit, or died? Did you know Chris Farley was supposed to be Shrek? Sarah's telling us about the most expensive celebrity's baby photo ever. Dang, People Magazine has some dough. The generations are at war. It's Pride month! The Giants still suck. Californians are filing bankruptcies. Vinnie's got great gifts for the high school graduates in your life. Hour 4: Did Taylor Swift realize her new song has almost the exact same title as a Gracie Abram's song? Vinnie is still hunting down the toy of the moment. Jason Aldean says encores are pointless. Megan Maroney is using the Taylor Swift training method. Colonel Sanders was a real dude, and he had thoughts on the way KFC changed its gravy. Sarah decided what she would do if she could time travel. Plus, When Did That Happen?
A Gene Wilder biopic is in the works, the World Cup version of the Puppy Bowl is coming this summer and will Clint Eastwood finally retire?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Jamal and guest, Promise discussed Promise's background as a stand-up comedian from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who has been performing for four years after starting in radio. They explored Milwaukee's comedy scene, notable Milwaukee-born entertainers like John Ridley and Gene Wilder, and Promise's upcoming shows including his three-year anniversary event at the Miramar Theater on May 31st. Promise shared details about his new podcast "Straight from the Yap with Promise" and his real name being Promise Bruce, not a stage name. They also discussed the Northwest Black Comedy Festival and Promise's upcoming appearance at Jamal's show in Madison, Wisconsin on June 27th at the Bartell Theatre in Madison, Wisconsin.
Movie of the Year: 1971The Finale, Part IIThe 1971 Film Finale Podcast: One Champion RemainsThe 1971 film finale podcast brings the Taste Buds' most ambitious bracket season to its definitive conclusion. Ryan, Mike, and Greg have debated, dismissed, and championed their way through a remarkable field — and now eight films remain. In this episode, four Elite Eight matchups collapse into a single champion, and five major awards close out the season before the final verdict arrives.Furthermore, this finale caps a season that has included some of the most provocative, challenging, and enduring films ever made. From Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange to William Friedkin's The French Connection, the 1971 bracket has consistently rewarded listeners willing to sit with difficult, boundary-pushing work. The season also covered Straw Dogs, Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song, and Dirty Harry — each one generating strong arguments before falling short of the Elite Eight.Additionally, five competitive award categories — Best Sex, Best Violence, Musical Moment, Best Actor, and Best Actress — draw nominees from across the full season. Consequently, this episode stands as the richest and most content-dense installment of the year.ContentsThe Elite Eight MatchupsThe 1971 AwardsWhy the 1971 Film Finale Podcast Still MattersRelated EpisodesFAQThe Elite Eight MatchupsEight films enter. One leaves as the 1971 champion. The Taste Buds structured the Elite Eight around four head-to-head matchups, and each one forces a different kind of critical argument.A Clockwork Orange vs. The DevilsTwo of the year's most transgressive films meet in the first matchup. A Clockwork Orange arrived as a season-long frontrunner — a Kubrick film operating at the height of his formal powers, one that the Taste Buds covered in depth on their dedicated episode. Ken Russell's The Devils, meanwhile, delivers a fever dream of religious hysteria and state violence that stands as one of the most divisive films the Taste Buds have discussed all season. Moreover, this matchup poses a pointed question: which film earns its provocation more honestly? Both demand something from the viewer. However, only one advances.Harold and Maude vs. McCabe and Mrs. MillerHarold and Maude represents the season's most warmly beloved film — a dark comedy about love, death, and radical living that generated some of the most enthusiastic podcast discussion of the year. By contrast, Robert Altman's McCabe and Mrs. Miller offers a revisionist Western suffused with melancholy and moral exhaustion, its beauty inseparable from its grief. Both films carry passionate advocates among the Taste Buds. Consequently, this matchup ranks among the tightest and most personal bracket debates of the entire season. Above all, it asks whether warmth or ache makes the stronger lasting impression.Wanda vs. The ConformistBarbara Loden's Wanda — a micro-budget American independent masterwork — faces Bernardo Bertolucci's The Conformist, a visually ravishing Italian political drama. Notably, both films center on characters adrift in systems designed to diminish them. Nevertheless, they arrive at very different emotional endpoints: Wanda drifts, the Conformist spirals. The Taste Buds' arguments in this matchup reveal as much about their own critical values as about the films themselves. In practice, this is the bracket's most purely cinephile debate.The French Connection vs. The Last Picture ShowThe bracket's most commercially dominant film — The French Connection, winner of five Academy Awards including Best Picture — faces Peter Bogdanovich's elegiac The Last Picture Show. In practice, this matchup pits Hollywood's muscular genre filmmaking against its more introspective New Wave ambitions. As a result, the debate cuts to the heart of what 1971 cinema actually achieved. Gene Hackman's Popeye Doyle and the dusty streets of Anarene, Texas, represent two entirely different ideas of what a great film should do — and the Taste Buds have strong opinions on which idea wins.The 1971 AwardsBefore the bracket champion is named, the Taste Buds present five awards covering the full sweep of the season. This Movie of the Year 1971 podcast segment features each host nominating the moments they found most memorable, daring, or essential — and the resulting field spans an extraordinary range of films and tones.Best SexThe nominees range from the tender to the violent to the surreal, drawing from three different films and three distinct registers of human sexuality.Jacy and Abilene — The Last Picture ShowThe Pool Party — The Last Picture ShowThe Rape of Christ — The DevilsThe Sex Duel with the Biker Gang — Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss SongYoung Sweetback and the Sex Worker — Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss SongBest ViolenceThe nominees span the full tonal range of 1971 action filmmaking — from Dirty Harry's iconic bank robbery standoff to the slow, aching finality of McCabe dying alone in the snow.The Car Chase — The French ConnectionHarry Foils a Bank Robbery — Dirty HarryThe Kid Kills the Cowboy — McCabe and Mrs. MillerThe Ludovico Technique — A Clockwork OrangeMcCabe Dies Alone in the Snow — McCabe and Mrs. MillerMusical MomentThe nominees here demonstrate just how varied 1971's soundtrack was — Cat Stevens, Beethoven, and Gene Wilder all make the shortlist.Maude Sings "If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out" — Harold and MaudeOpening Funeral March — A Clockwork Orange"Pure Imagination" — Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory"Singin' in the Rain" — A Clockwork OrangeThe Tango — The ConformistBest Actor The five nominees represent the full range of 1971 male performance — from Hackman's coiled rage to Wilder's heartbreaking wonder. Additionally, this category generated some of the most contested debates in the entire 1971 film podcast season.Warren Beatty — McCabe and Mrs. MillerGene Hackman — The French ConnectionOliver Reed — The DevilsJean-Louis Trintignant — The ConformistGene Wilder —
Movie of the Year: 1971The Finale, Part IIThe 1971 Film Bracket Podcast Reaches the Elite EightThis 1971 film bracket podcast returns with its most dramatic episode yet. Ryan, Mike, and Greg — the Taste Buds — work through the bottom half of the Sweet 16, producing four matchups that nobody saw coming. Furthermore, the episode hands out two major awards: Comedic Performance and Biggest Shithead. The results set the stage for Part III, where the Elite Eight will be whittled down to a single 1971 champion.If you missed Part I of the finale, start there first. The bracket has been full of upsets throughout the season. Consequently, no outcome here should be taken for granted.The Sweet 16: Bottom Half of the 1971 Film BracketThe bottom half of the 1971 Sweet 16 is stacked. These four matchups pit some of the most beloved and argued-over films in the entire bracket against one another. Moreover, the range of cinema on display — from Hollywood blockbusters to European art films to New Hollywood grit — illustrates exactly why 1971 is one of the most fertile film years ever put to a bracket.The Taste Buds debate each matchup using their standard evaluative framework: craft, cultural impact, rewatchability, and gut feeling. Above all, they trust their instincts — and their instincts have produced surprises at every turn this season. Tune in to find out which four films advance to the Elite Eight.Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory vs. WandaThis matchup pits one of cinema's most beloved fantasies against one of its most criminally underseen gems. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory needs little introduction — Gene Wilder's performance alone has kept it in the cultural conversation for over fifty years. Nevertheless, Wanda is no pushover. Barbara Loden's Wanda (1971) is a raw, naturalistic landmark of American independent cinema, and its inclusion in the bracket has been a point of pride for whoever seeded it.This is a clash of tone, scale, and intention. One film is a spectacle engineered for maximum delight. The other strips cinema down to its bones. However, the Taste Buds must pick one — and the pick will tell you something about where their tastes landed by the time the 1971 season reached its final stretch.The French Connection vs. Brian's SongTwo films that defined what mainstream American cinema could do with raw emotional and procedural intensity. The French Connection won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1971. It features one of the most celebrated car chases in film history and a career-defining performance from Gene Hackman as the relentless, morally compromised Popeye Doyle. Additionally, William Friedkin's direction remains a masterclass in gritty, kinetic storytelling.Brian's Song, meanwhile, hit American living rooms as a TV movie and destroyed everyone who watched it. The story of Gale Sayers and Brian Piccolo remains one of the most emotionally devastating sports films ever made. Notably, the Taste Buds covered both films earlier this season — so this rematch in the 1971 film bracket carries the weight of all those prior arguments.The Last Picture Show vs. KluteTwo of New Hollywood's most enduring films square off here, and neither one will go quietly. The Last Picture Show is Peter Bogdanovich's elegiac black-and-white portrait of a dying Texas town — a film the American Film Institute has called one of the greatest ever made. Furthermore, its ensemble cast, including Jeff Bridges, Cybill Shepherd, Cloris Leachman, and Ben Johnson, delivers some of the finest performances in the bracket.Klute, however, has Jane Fonda. Her performance as Bree Daniels earned her the first of her two Academy Awards, and it remains one of the most psychologically intricate portrayals of a woman in crisis in American cinema. Alan J. Pakula's direction is coiled and paranoid in all the right ways. Consequently, this matchup may be the most difficult call in the entire bracket.The Conformist vs. The Panic in Needle ParkThe final Sweet 16 matchup is the most arthouse of the four — and arguably the most fascinating. Bernardo Bertolucci's The Conformist is a landmark of European cinema. Vittorio Storaro's cinematography is among the most studied in film school history, and the film's meditation on fascism, identity, and moral cowardice has only grown richer with time. You can read more about the film at Roger Ebert's review on RogerEbert.com.The Panic in Needle Park, by contrast, is bracingly American — a gritty, unglamorous portrait of heroin addiction on the streets of New York. It introduced Al Pacino to mainstream audiences. Moreover, Jerry Schatzberg's unflinching direction makes the film feel almost documentary in its honesty. These two films represent opposite ends of world cinema in 1971, and the Taste Buds must choose one.Award: Best Comedic Performance — 1971 Film Bracket PodcastThe Taste Buds hand out individual performance awards throughout the season, and the Comedic Performance category drew a fascinating and eclectic field of nominees. The 1971 bracket is not short on laughs — from the anarchic fantasy of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory to the dark comedy of Harold and Maude. Furthermore, the nominees represent a range of comic registers, from broad physical performance to pitch-black wit.The nominees are:David Battley — Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Mike's pick)Julie Dawn Cole — Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Greg's pick)Bud Cort — Harold and Maude (Mike's pick)Michael Gothard — The Devils (Ryan's pick)Gene Wilder — Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Greg's pick)David Battley's turn as the hapless Mr. Turkentine in Willy Wonka is a masterwork of bewildered reaction comedy. Julie Dawn Cole's Veruca Salt is a full-throttle comic creation — spoiled, relentless, and somehow sympathetic. Additionally, Bud Cort's Harold is a genuinely difficult comic achievement: deadpan to the point of catatonia, yet somehow enormously warm.Michael Gothard's Father Barre in The Devils is Ryan's wild-card choice — a performance of manic, committed intensity that functions as dark comedy whether or not Ken Russell intended it. Meanwhile, Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka remains one of cinema's great comic performances — menacing, whimsical, and deeply strange all at once. The winner is waiting for you in the episode.Award: Biggest Shithead of 1971One of the Taste Buds' most beloved recurring awards, the Biggest Shithead category recognizes the most memorably awful person — or entity — in the bracket. Notably, this award rewards commitment. Nominees do not simply do bad things. They do bad things with style, conviction, and a complete lack of self-awareness.The nominees are:Baron de Laubardemont — The Devils (Greg's pick)The Lady at Snakearama — Duel (Ryan's pick)The Motorcycle Cop — Harold and Maude (Greg's pick)Mr. Deltoid — A Clockwork Orange (Mike's pick)Veruca Salt — Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (Mike's pick)Baron de Laubardemont, the cold bureaucratic villain of The Devils, brings state-sanctioned cruelty to the category. The Lady at Snakearama from Duel is Ryan's inspired choice — a brief but indelible portrait of someone who simply should not be in this movie. Furthermore, Harold and Maude's Motorcycle Cop is a monument to institutional pettiness.Mr. Deltoid from A Clockwork Orange is a sweaty, oleaginous masterpiece of ineffectual authority — Mike's nomination is well-argued. Veruca Salt, however, may be the category's most pure entry: a child who has elevated wanting things to an art form. The winner, as always, is in the episode.Why This 1971 Film Bracket Podcast Still MattersThe Sweet 16 is where bracket tournaments reveal their true character. By this stage, the obvious candidates are mostly gone. What remains are the films that survived not on reputation alone but on genuine argument. Moreover, the bottom half of the 1971 Sweet 16 contains some of the season's most debated films — which means every matchup result carries real emotional weight.The year 1971 is one of the most remarkable in cinema history. New Hollywood was hitting its stride. European art cinema was pushing form to its limits. Genre filmmaking was getting stranger, darker, and more personal. Consequently, any bracket drawn from this year produces matchups that feel genuinely impossible to call. The Taste Buds do not pretend otherwise — they argue, they agonize, and they vote.Part III is coming. The Elite Eight will determine the Movie of the Year: 1971 champion. Above all, this episode is the last chance to see which films survive before the final reckoning. Subscribe to PopFilter and follow along — the 1971 film...
This week, the Bad Dads rewind to 1989 to review the iconic Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder comedy, See No Evil, Hear No Evil.What We CoveredMustache Watch: Cris debuts a new retro mustache. Is it Ned Flanders? Luigi? You decide.The Main Feature: Reviewing the chaotic brilliance of Wilder and Pryor navigating a murder plot as a deaf man and a blind man.Classic Tropes: We talk about Kevin Spacey, 80s car chases with a blind driver, and using other senses (and Shalimar perfume) to outwit the cops.Lost in Translation: Reegs runs down the funniest international titles for the film (Spain went with "Don't Yell At Me, I Can't See You").You can now text us anonymously to leave feedback, suggest future content or simply hurl abuse at us. We'll read out any texts we receive on the show. Click here to try it out!We love to hear from our listeners! By which I mean we tolerate it. If it hasn't been completely destroyed yet you can usually find us on twitter @dads_film, on Facebook Bad Dads Film Review, on email at baddadsjsy@gmail.com or on our website baddadsfilm.com. Until next time, we remain... Bad Dads
Dans cet épisode du « Journal Imprévisible », Augustin Lefebvre nous emmène à la découverte de la fascinante histoire de Frankenstein, cette créature légendaire qui a marqué la culture populaire depuis plus de deux siècles.Tout commence avec l'annonce d'une nouvelle adaptation de l'œuvre de Mary Shelley par le réalisateur mexicain Guillermo del Toro, sur la plateforme Netflix. L'occasion d'explorer les multiples facettes de ce mythe, de ses origines littéraires à ses déclinaisons au cinéma.Il revient aussi sur la genèse du roman de Mary Shelley, écrit en 1816 lors d'un été ennuyeux passé en Suisse avec des amis. De cette période de créativité est née une histoire qui a traversé les époques, inspirant de nombreuses adaptations théâtrales et cinématographiques.Les auditeurs découvrent alors les interprétations marquantes de la créature, à commencer par celle de Boris Karloff dans le film de James Whale en 1931. Loin de la caricature, Boris Karloff a su donner vie à un personnage empreint de sensibilité, comme le souligne l'acteur Christopher Lee. D'autres grands noms comme Béla Lugosi, Robert De Niro ou encore Gene Wilder ont également laissé leur empreinte sur ce rôle emblématique.Au-delà du registre de l'horreur, Frankenstein a aussi inspiré des œuvres plus légères, à l'image de la comédie Frankenstein Junior, où Gene Wilder incarne un scientifique tentant d'amadouer sa créature. Un contraste qui illustre la richesse et la diversité des déclinaisons de ce mythe.Mais pourquoi Frankenstein fascine-t-il autant ? Augustin Lefebvre nous livre les réflexions de Boris Karloff, qui y voit les racines des plus vieux contes et légendes de l'humanité. Des histoires qui continuent de captiver les esprits, au cinéma comme en musique, avec les interprétations d'Alice Cooper ou de France Gall.Hébergé par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Your boys are back with a big extravaganza this week! First, we discuss what movies we watched this week, then Sean gets so hyped to go to Las Vegas for Wrestlemania weekend that we watch and discuss an insane Japanese cage match between Aja Kong and Bull Nakano! Then, we discuss another classic! Mel Brooks' directorial debut, "The Producers," In this Gene Wilder movie, two Broadway producers put on a show they want to fail: "Springtime for Hitler." Does the plan succeed? And what do Larry David and Mr. Belvedere have to do with it?? Direct Donloyd Here. All this plus voicemails, Kyle from Kentucky, Kevin, our favorite foods, the Drama and so much more! Also, if you like the show, please take a minute and subscribe and/or comment on us on iTunes, Stitcher, Blubrry or Podfeed.net. Check us out on Facebook and Twitter! We'd love to see some of your love on Patreon - it's super easy and fun to sign up for the extra bonus content. We'll drum funkily for your love and support. With picks like these, you GOTTA #DonloydNow and listen in!
Episode 129 - Pack your bags and don't forget to pack your funny bone. We are headed to Transylvania to wrap up spring break and our Gene Gone Wilder month. This week we watch another classic, Young Frankenstein (1974), written by Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks, directed by Mel Brooks. A parody of the classic story of Frankenstein, Young Frankenstein stars Wilder along side Peter Boyle, Madeline Kahn, Marty Feldman and Teri Garr among others. It's an unbelievable cast putting on a comedic clinic. We also finish this month strong with another classic pairing of Gene Wilder with Richard Pryor in See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989).And if that isn't enough to take in, we also get Marco's reveal for next month. In classic Marco form he realized we were having too much fun lately so made it a point to bring our fun to a grinding halt. What could it be? Tune in to find out.email us at mracfilmclub@gmail.com
A $3 million movie. Two big-budget remakes. And somehow, the original still wins. Fifty years later, kids who've seen all three versions of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory keep coming back to the 1971 film, not because it has better effects, but because it was built on something the others weren't. In this episode, we break down what that something is with the help of our special guest Kevin Rippon, Head of Marketing at Juniper Square. Together, we explore what B2B marketers can learn from taking a distinct position, leading with credibility over spectacle, and structuring content that gets to the point fast. About our guest, Kevin Rippon A respected and resilient marketing leader, Kevin has held positions in product marketing, growth, digital, brand, creative, and experiential at different career stops with companies ranging from asset management to fashion to vertical SaaS. Kevin currently oversees Marketing at Juniper Square. What B2B Companies Can Learn From Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory: Know your positioning and take a stand. Gene Wilder's very first scene as Willy Wonka, the cane, the limp, the unexpected somersault, wasn't an accident. It was a declaration. Kevin draws the parallel directly: "The marketing parallel is knowing your positioning or taking a position that's distinct and different." In B2B, most brands try to appeal to everyone and end up resonating with no one. The ones that win commit to a clear, unmistakable point of view, and don't apologize for it. Start with a credible message, then dial up the spectacle. The original Oompa Loompas were real actors. The CGI version in the remake looked slicker yet felt fake. Kevin sees the same trap in B2B content: "Start with a credible message and then work your way up from there in terms of spectacle." Great content isn't about how produced it looks. It's about whether the audience believes it. Credibility is the foundation; everything else is amplification. Don't needlessly preface, let content run downhill. Willy Wonka gets to the point fast. A few lines from Grandpa Joe and you're already inside the factory. Kevin has made this a governing principle at Juniper Square: "A principle that we actually have at Juniper Square that we set is don't needlessly preface or over preface things. I firmly believe in content like running downhill." Too much B2B content spends the first half justifying why the reader should care. The best content starts in the middle of the thing they already care about and never looks back. Quote "Do you have something to say about a particular topic? How can you establish the credibility around it? And then how do you sound different from everyone else, even in your language choices?" Time Stamps [01:41] Meet Kevin Rippon, Head of Marketing at Juniper Square [01:57] Why Willy Wonka? [03:58] The Role of Head of Marketing at Juniper Square [07:42] Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory: The Story Behind the Story [13:12] B2B Marketing Takeaways from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory [43:39] Willy Wonka as Branded Content [48:46] Final Thoughts and Takeaways Links Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn Learn more about Juniper Square About Remarkable! Remarkable! is created by the team at Caspian Studios, the premier B2B Podcast-as-a-Service company. Caspian creates both nonfiction and fiction series for B2B companies. If you want a fiction series check out our new offering - The Business Thriller - Hollywood style storytelling for B2B. Learn more at CaspianStudios.com. In today's episode, you heard from Ian Faison (CEO of Caspian Studios) and Meredith Gooderham (Head of Production). Remarkable was produced this week by Jess Avellino, mixed by Scott Goodrich, and our theme song is "Solomon" by FALAK. Create something remarkable. Rise above the noise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Most of us have experienced a strange feeling: feeling close to a celebrity, podcast host, or content creator as if they're friends — even though we've never met. But what's really happening in our brains when these one-sided bonds form? Are they harmless connections, or do they lead us down some unexpected psychological rabbit holes?In this eye-opening episode of Friends Talking Nerdy, Tim The Nerd and The Reverend Tracy dive deep into the science behind parasocial relationships — the phenomenon where media influences blur the lines between real and perceived intimacy. From Robin Williams and Gene Wilder to modern stars like The Rock and Sabrina Carpenter, we explore how repeated exposure, authenticity, and neurobiology reinforce these bonds, making us feel like we truly know these figures. But it's not just entertainment; parasocial dynamics are shaping politics, social media, and even our mental health. You'll discover:The neuroscience of attachment and face recognition that explains why we feel connected to media personalitiesHow social cues like eye contact and voice activate brain regions as if we're interacting face-to-faceThe risks of toxic parasocial bonds, from unhealthy obsession to real-world harmThe positive ways parasocial ties can combat loneliness and build community during times of social upheavalPractical advice on maintaining healthy boundaries and using media relationships responsiblyWe break down how technology has amplified these interactions — from radio's golden age to today's podcasts and social platforms — and why understanding this mechanism is crucial for safeguarding your mental well-being. Whether you're a content creator, a media consumer, or just curious about this pervasive social phenomenon, this episode offers vital insights into how our brains really respond to the digital age's abundance of connection. Perfect for anyone navigating today's fragmented social landscape, especially during periods of loneliness or social change. If you've ever felt like you know someone you've never met, or wondered about the impact of influencers and politics on your psyche, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we unravel the science behind the illusion of closeness, revealing how our minds are wired for social bonds — and how we can use that knowledge for good instead of falling into the trap of toxic attachment. Your understanding of social media, fame, and human connection might never be the same.As always, we wish to thank Christopher Lazarek for his wonderful theme song. Head to his website for information on how to purchase his EP, Here's To You, which is available on all digital platforms.Head to Friends Talking Nerdy's website for more information on where to find us online.
Episode 128 - Pack your bags because we are headed to the Wild West, as seen though the eyes of comedy legend Mel Brooks. For the second time this month we enjoy the paring of Brooks and Gene Wilder as we watch and discuss Blazing Saddles (1974). Wilder plays the Waco Kid, who had the fastest hands in the west before crawling into a whiskey bottle. He teams up with newly appointed Sheriff Bart (Cleavon Little) to save the town of Rock Ridge. It's a classic comedy and we had a lot of fun with this one so tune in for this.And tune in next time as we wrap up Gene Gone Wilder month with Young Frankenstein (1974).email us at mracfilmclub@gmail.com
Send us Fan MailThis week we talk about Young Frankenstein from 1974! Our creator profile is Gene Wilder!https://www.instagram.com/thebonsaimoviecrew/https://twitter.com/bonsai_crewhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thebonsaimoviecrewhttps://discord.gg/8jCPe8T2kT#moviereview #podcast #moviefan #filmpodcast #moviepodcast #film #nostalgia #cultclassic #chatgpt #AI #blackandwhite #genewilder #horror
Welcome to PTBN Pop's Movie Review of The Day! Every weekday we will be reviewing a movie whether it be currently in theaters, featured on streaming or just a film that we hold near and dear to us. With April Fool's Day this week, we're tickling our funny bones and covering classic comedies (pre-1990) this week. On today's episode, Steve Riddle is reviewing “Blazing Saddles” from 1974 starring Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder, Harvey Korman, Madeline Kahn & Mel Brooks.
Episode 127: Pack your bags, we are headed to the land of chocolate. It's week 2 of Gene Wilder month, and this week we are looking at the classic Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory (1979), a tale of Charlie Bucket and 4 horrible children as they journey through the chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder). We break it down and discuss watching this growing up as well as our observations as "adults." We had a lot of fun with this one. How high did we rate it? Tune in to find out.And tune in next week as we watch and discuss another classic: Blazing Saddles (1974)email us at mracfilmclub@gmail.com
Episode 126 - It's Spring Break! So, back your bags because we are headed to... Gene Wilder? Yes it's Gene Gone Wilder month for March and we will be breaking down the film career of comedy legend Gene Wilder. For week 1 we start at the beginning with his first major film role and the first of his collaborations with the great Mel Brooks. In The Producers (1967) Wilder stars an accountant Leo Bloom, who along with Broadway play producer Max Bialystock hatch a plan to make money by intentionally creating a flop on Broadway. This is the original film which sparked its own hit Broadway play along with a remake. But this was a first time watch for all of us. Listen as we break it down.And tune in next time for the classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)email us at mracfilmclub@gmail.com
Movie of the Year: 1971Willy Wonka and the Chocolate FactoryWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factory podcast fans, this one is for you. Ryan, Mike, and Greg are joined by special guest Matt Singer of ScreenCrush to revisit one of 1971's most beloved and most debated films on Movie of the Year. In addition, Mel Stuart's musical fantasy has frightened and delighted children and adults in equal measure for over fifty years. This episode also features Movie Trivia and a PopFilter Hall of Fame: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory induction.About the FilmRoald Dahl based the film on his 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The story follows young Charlie Bucket, who wins a golden ticket and tours the mysterious factory of the eccentric Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka. Notably, Dahl wrote the screenplay himself — and then disowned the finished film. He objected to the liberties the production took with his story and his vision for the character. As a result, that tension between author and adaptation makes this a particularly rich film to revisit.Before diving in, check out our recent episodes on The Last Picture Show, A Clockwork Orange, and The French Connection for more from the Movie of the Year 1971 series.Guest Panelist: Matt Singer of ScreenCrushMatt Singer joins the Taste Buds for this episode. He serves as editor and film critic at ScreenCrush and holds membership in the New York Film Critics Circle. Singer spent five years as the on-air host of IFC News on the Independent Film Channel. He has also contributed to CBS This Morning Saturday, Ebert Presents at the Movies, The Village Voice, and The Dissolve. Furthermore, he won a Webby Award for his work on IFC.com and authored Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever.Matt Singer's New Book: Funny BusinessHis latest book is Funny Business, out in October. It covers the comedy films of the 2000s — Old School, Zoolander, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Superbad, The Hangover, and more. Pre-order it now. Moreover, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory ranks among Singer's four all-time favorite films on Letterboxd. Consequently, this is not just any guest — Singer has thought deeply about this film for a very long time.Willy Wonka 1971 Podcast Discussion: Genre and ToneThe first major topic of this Willy Wonka 1971 podcast discussion is the question that has divided audiences since opening day: what kind of film is this, exactly? The studio marketed it as a children's musical fantasy. In practice, however, it delivers something far stranger and more unsettling. The boat tunnel sequence alone has scared generations of young viewers. Moreover, the tone shifts without warning from whimsical to genuinely threatening. Gene Wilder's performance keeps the audience perpetually off-balance throughout.Ryan, Mike, Greg, and Matt Singer dig into how Mel Stuart navigated the tension between studio ambitions and the source material. They also examine the complicated role of Roald Dahl as screenwriter — a man who shaped the film's darkest edges and then rejected the result. For more on the film's production history on IMDB, the details prove just as strange as the movie itself.What Gene Wilder Brings to Willy WonkaAbove all, the panel examines what Gene Wilder brings to the role that no other actor has replicated. His Wonka radiates warmth that sits one beat away from menace — and a menace that sits one beat away from warmth. No other performer has threaded that needle. For a full look at Wilder's career, therefore, visit his IMDB page.Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory: Kids vs. AdultsOne of the central questions of this episode is who Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory actually targets. On the surface, it presents itself as a children's film. In practice, though, it rewards adult viewing in ways that most children's films never attempt. The satire cuts deep, the darkness feels genuine, and Wonka makes much more sense to a viewer who no longer roots for Charlie as a pure hero.The panel explores the film through both lenses. As children, most of them fell for the candy and feared the tunnel. As adults, by contrast, they find something else entirely — a film about power, punishment, and the thin line between a visionary and a tyrant. Additionally, they discuss how the film shifts meaning depending on which version of yourself sits in the audience, and why that quality remains so rare.Capitalism, Conformity, and Other -Isms in Willy Wonka 1971Beneath the chocolate and the Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory has a great deal to say about the world. The children who fail Wonka's tests are not simply bad kids. Instead, they embody consumer culture, class anxiety, and parental failure. Augustus Gloop represents excess. Violet Beauregarde embodies competitive ambition. Veruca Salt carries unchecked privilege. Meanwhile, Mike Teavee absorbs media saturation. Each child faces punishment not for being a child, but for playing the role of a particular kind of adult in miniature.Ryan, Mike, Greg, and Matt Singer examine what the film says about capitalism, conformity, and the systems that shape children before they can question them. In addition, they take on the troubling labor politics of the Oompa Loompas — workers paid in cacao beans, housed inside their employer's factory, and sent out to deliver moral lectures on demand. It is a lot to unpack. Nevertheless, this episode unpacks all of it.For more critical context on the film's themes, visit RogerEbert.com.Movie Trivia: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory EditionThis episode features a special Movie Trivia segment. Did you know that Gene Wilder agreed to play Wonka only if the character could limp — so audiences could never fully trust him? Or that the chocolate river used real chocolate and cream, and quickly turned rancid on set? Or that Roald Dahl refused to authorize a sequel after the studio ignored his objections to the first film?As a result, the Taste Buds and Matt Singer test their full knowledge of the film. They cover casting history, behind-the-scenes stories, and the many ways the finished film diverged from Dahl's original vision. Even devoted fans will likely learn something new.PopFilter Hall of Fame: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate FactoryThis episode also features a PopFilter Hall of Fame: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory induction. The panel makes their case for which element of the film deserves permanent enshrinement — whether that is Gene Wilder's performance, a specific scene, a song, or something else entirely. Tune in to find out what makes the cut.Why the Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Podcast Discussion Still MattersMore than fifty years after its release, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory stands as one of the most enduring and genuinely strange films in the American canon. It grows with you. Specifically, it means something different at seven, at seventeen, and at forty-seven. Few films can make that claim.Ultimately, this Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory podcast episode revisits the film not just as a 1971 classic, but as a living text that continues to reward close attention. With Matt Singer in the mix, expect sharp criticism, genuine passion, and at least one strong opinion about the Fizzy Lifting Drinks scene.Related Episodes from Movie of the Year: 1971If you enjoyed this episode, check out the rest of the Movie of the Year 1971 series:The Last Picture Show — Bogdanovich, nostalgia, and a dying Texas townA Clockwork Orange — Kubrick, free will, and the limits of the stateThe French Connection — Friedkin,
Saddle up, partners—this week 3 Guys and a Flick rides into the wild, weird frontier of the 1979 buddy-western The Frisco Kid!
Episode 299 of Irritable Dad Syndrome finds Mike and Darin celebrating the end of the 200-episode era while sharing stories about seeing Nine Inch Nails live, revisiting classic comedy movies, and dealing with one of the most shocking plumbing quotes imaginable.After attending a powerful Nine Inch Nails concert in Columbus, the dads debate the lasting impact of Trent Reznor's music, the legendary Johnny Cash cover of “Hurt,” and the strange experience of hearing songs live that you never appreciated on the album.Meanwhile, Darin discovers his basement water heater is leaking—which leads to an unbelievable $11,000 quote from a plumber before a second opinion saves the day.The episode also includes:A revisit of the Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor comedy Stir CrazyListener questions about hot dogs, Elvis, and U2Reflections on nearly five years of podcastingAs Episode 300 approaches, Mike and Darin reflect on how Irritable Dad Syndrome has become a running diary of their lives—one ridiculous story at a time.Listen now and get ready for the milestone 300th episode next week.#NineInchNails #JohnnyCash #ConcertStories#ComedyPodcast #DadHumor #FunnyPodcast#WaterHeater #HomeRepair #HomeOwnership#GeneWilder #RichardPryorSupport the showThank you so much for listening to this episode! If you like what we do, please check out our other content! Follow our socials for announcements when we go LIVE and to become part of the show!All episode, videos, and more can be found on our website at: https://www.irritabledadsyndrome.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrritableDadSyndromeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@irritabledadsyndromeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@irritabledadsyndromeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/irritabledadsyndrome/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@irritabledadsyndromeTwitter / X: https://x.com/DadIrritableTons of bonus and premium content (including archived, uncensored videos of episode recordings, unique merch, and more!) is all on our Patreon page! Join our Patrons today and support our show!Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/irritabledadsyndrome
Great marketing does not start with your product. It starts with your customer. In this conversation, I speak with marketing strategist Scott Hornstein about why storytelling, customer research, and trust are the real drivers behind successful brands. Scott shares lessons from decades in marketing, including his work with IBM and major technology launches, and explains how companies often fail when they focus on themselves instead of the people they serve. You will hear how listening to the voice of the customer can reshape messaging, build trust, and unlock growth. Scott also reflects on entrepreneurship, resilience, family, and the mindset required to get back up after setbacks. I believe you will find this conversation both practical and encouraging as you think about how relationships and trust shape business success. Highlights: · Creativity in Queens – Scott reflects on how music and culture shaped his early creativity.04:10 · From Literature to Marketing – His love of books leads him toward storytelling and marketing.12:57 · Learning to Experiment – A mentor teaches the value of trying ideas and learning from failure.20:46 · The Customer as the Hero – Scott explains why marketing must center on the customer.31:48 · Customer Insight Drives Messaging – Research helps reshape a company's message and market entry.41:23 · Resilience Through Setbacks – Scott reflects on perseverance in life and business.50:59 Top of Form Bottom of Form About the Guest: I currently live in Reston VA, my wife and I having moved there to be close to our 2 daughters and our 2 granddaughters. I am an independent business consultant specializing in storytelling – which embraces marketing, research, and content. Family is the most important thing in my life and it has taught me that lasting relationships, business and personal, are steeped in empathy and commitment. I was born in Manhattan on July 25, 1950. My parents soon moved the family to the up-and-coming borough of Queens. I attended the public schools in and around Forest Hills. Writing was always my goal. I graduated NYU as an English major. Upon graduation I traveled, then pursued my (naïve) dream of living as an artist – as a writer, an actor, and a musician. I wrote plays for the brand-new cable industry, wrote for a movie-making magazine, was in several off-off Broadway plays, worked as a pick-up musician. I helped in the office for a former professor to earn subway money. Got tired of starving to death. Took a job with CBS in the Broadcast Center, pulling together the Daily Log for the local station. Then, got hired to answer Bill Paley's mail. Then, I was hired as a marketing manager for Columbia House where I got some of the best advice – keep going. I met this guy from my neighborhood while commuting to my job in Manhattan. Turns our he worked for Y&R and said they were looking for someone. I interviewed and jumped over to agency-side work as an Account Executive, then Account Supervisor, then, going back to my roots, copywriter and eventually Creative Director. The entrepreneurial life has been a roller coaster, but I have been blessed to work with some brilliant people in marketing and sales, and some great companies. It allowed me to understand how I can really help my customers become successful in the long-term. Ways to connect with Scott**:** LinkedIn Medium www.hornsteinassociates.com About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us. Well, hi everyone, and welcome once again to another episode of unstoppable mindset today. Our guest is Scott Hornstein, although when he came into the Zoom Room, I said, is it Hornstein or Hornstein? And of course, he also understood, because we're both of the same age, and are both fans of Young Frankenstein, who always said that his name was really pronounced Frankenstein. But you know, you have to have to know Gene Wilder for that. But anyway, if you haven't seen that movie, you got to see it. Mel Brooks at his best, but Scott is a marketing person and specializes a lot in storytelling, which fascinates me a lot, because I am a firm believer in storytelling, and I know we're going to have a lot of fun talking about that today. So Scott, I want to welcome you to unstoppable mindset. We're really glad you're here. Scott Hornstein 02:20 Thank you so much, Michael. I have to start by saying I have great respect for your work, and this is really quite a privilege for me. Thank you very much. Michael Hingson 02:32 Well, thank you. You're a long way from where you were born, in New York, in Manhattan. Now you're in Reston, Virginia, but that's okay. Well, you're not that far. It's just a short train ride, a few hours. Scott Hornstein 02:41 I That's true. That's true, although with that particular train, you can never be sure exactly how long it's going to be good Michael Hingson 02:52 point, yeah, yeah, good point. It is one of the things one has to deal with. But that's okay. But, you know, I've taken that train many times, and I've taken the the Metro liner as well, and also just the regular train. And I like the trains. I enjoy the train. I wish we had more of them out here. Scott Hornstein 03:15 I do too. I when it a long time ago in business, when I had a client here in DC, and I was living in Connecticut, I started taking the train, and it was so superior to flying. Oh yeah. And then recently I was, as I was mentioning to you, I was in Germany and taking the trains there is just wonderful. It's so superior. Michael Hingson 03:47 Yeah, I wish we would have more of them out here. If I, for example, want to take a train to San Francisco from where I live in Victorville, the only way I can do it is to take a train at roughly four in the morning to Los Angeles and then transfer on a train to go to San Francisco, which is no fun. I'll fly because it's it's kind of crazy, but I like the trains, and wish we wish we had more of them all over, and wish more people would use them. It's a lot better than driving, and it's a lot more pleasant. When I lived in the east, there were any number of times that I knew people who would travel from like Bucks County in Pennsylvania to New York Wall Street people, and they would go two, two and a half hours on the train every day and back again. And they formed discussion groups or other sorts of things. They they made it a part of their regular day, and it was there was nothing to them to do that. Scott Hornstein 04:54 And to them, I say, God bless. I am not in love with commuting, right? Yeah. Michael Hingson 05:00 Well, I understand that. I appreciate that, but they, they did well with it, and so good for them, or, as I would say in Australia, good on them. But you know, well, why don't we start tell us a little bit about you, maybe growing up in the early Scott and all that stuff. Let's start with that, sure. Scott Hornstein 05:21 First one brief aside about Young Frankenstein when I was living in Connecticut, I would go to the theater in Stanford, and for one performance, my tickets were at the will call, so I went up to the ticket booth, gave them my name, and the woman be on the other side of the iron bars keeps throwing her head to the side, wanting me to look over to my left, and I finally look over to my left, and there's Gene Wilder. Oh my gosh. What an enormously tall individual, very gracious, very nice. In any case, yes, Michael Hingson 06:06 with him, did you? Did you talk with Scott Hornstein 06:09 him just for a moment, just for a moment, you know, just Mr. Wilder, how nice to meet you. And he said a couple of nice things. And that was about it. Still, we all went to see the to see the show. Still, it was quite a thrill for me. What show I do not. Oh, that was, oh, no, excuse me. That was the the madness of King Charles, madness of King George. King George. But he was quite mad, and the play is excellent, excellent. Well, anyway, in any case, I grew I was born in Manhattan. I spent the first couple of years of life on the west side. I don't remember much of that. But my parents quickly moved us out to Queens, which at that point was rather undeveloped. You could get a lot more for your money, and we have lived in an apartment building. And around our apartment building was nothing but empty lots. It was just not developed yet. But it was a great place to grow up because the there was so much going on in those years and so much so much music that was going on. The first recollection I have, in light of all the talk about vaccines and healthcare and all of this is I really remember that polio was a real thing there, and I remember kids with the braces on their legs. And I remember that when one of my friends got chicken pox, that the mothers would get us all together and have a play date so that we got chicken pox too. Okay, but it was, Michael Hingson 08:20 I'm sorry, remember, I remember getting the polio vaccinations, even starting in kindergarten, Scott Hornstein 08:24 yes, yes. And it was such a remarkable thing at that time. We all thought it was like a miracle. And, and Jonas Salk, I mean, he was like, such a hero, yeah. The other thing, so I, we were out in Queens, in an area that's the larger area is called Forest Hills, and it was, it was a great place, because the the whole museum, whole music scene was just exploding. So I'm moving on until my junior high school and high school years, and it was just all over the place. Yes, we were playing in bands, but also there were these wonderful venues to go to. And there was the subway. If my parents only knew where I really was, we would get on the subway, go down in the village, go to all the cafe bar Gertie spoke city, all these places to hear the this wonderful mind changing music. And by mind changing, I don't mean drugs. I mean mind changing that it was, it was just everything in life. Michael Hingson 09:57 And there's nothing like hearing a lot. Music, Scott Hornstein 10:01 even to this day, it's my very, very favorite thing to do. Yeah, and so many musicians and artists came out of that area. I not being one of them. But it was so exciting. Michael Hingson 10:27 I remember when we lived in New Jersey, and I would commute into New York. I heard, for example, even then, and it was in like 96 to beginning of 2002 Woody Allen on Monday night would play his clarinet somewhere. And less, less, Paul was still doing music and playing music at the meridian ballroom. And you can even take your guitar in and he would sign it for you Scott Hornstein 10:55 the it was Joe's Pub. Woody Allen would right. And I went there a couple of times to see him. Of course, it was so pricey that we had to kind of sneak in have one beer, yeah, Michael Hingson 11:16 but still, it was worth doing. Scott Hornstein 11:19 And then they Yeah, and they were great clubs. I think that was, there's certainly the blue note for jazz that I went to a lot. And then there in Times Square, there was iridium, which was where I was able to see Les Paul, right? And many of those greats. Michael Hingson 11:42 Yeah, I never did get to go and get my guitar signed, and now it's too late. But oh, well, do you play? I play at it more than anything else. My father, I think, even before the war, before World War Two, or somewhere around there anyway, he traded something and got a Martin grand concert guitar. Oh, still, I still have it. That's wonderful. What a wonderful sound it is. Scott Hornstein 12:15 What a wonderful story. Yes, I play as well. I And growing up very early on, I decided I wanted to be Ricky Nelson. Oh, there you go. But I quickly learned that I was not going to be Ricky Nelson. However, the guy that was standing behind him playing guitar, now that might be something that I could do. So yes, so I picked it up, and I played in all the bands and then, which quickly taught me that I was not cut out for rock and roll, that I wasn't very good at it, but it led me into many other avenues of music, certainly listening, certainly being part of that scene, I'd go see friends of mine who could play well rock and roll and And that was so exciting for me. And then I, I played in pickup bands through college. So on a weekend night there would be a wedding, Bar Mitzvah, and this guy, I forget his name, piano player, he he got all the gigs and Howie was the first choice for guitar, and if Howie wasn't available, they'd call me. Michael Hingson 13:47 There you go, hey. So second choice is better than no choice. Absolutely. Scott Hornstein 13:54 I i enjoyed it thoroughly and that they paid me money to do this. There you go, right, inconceivable to me. Michael Hingson 14:05 So what did you major in in college? Scott Hornstein 14:10 Well, I started off majoring in biology, and there you go. And why I chose biology is is a mystery to this day, it didn't last long. I cycled through a number of things, and I graduated with a degree in literature, in English, particularly American literature, which is not quite the same as learning a trade. But you know it, it was consistent with with who I was at that time. I was the guy who, if he went out the door, would have two books with him, just in case I finished one. I didn't want to be left at sea, so a voracious reader couldn't stay away from the theater. So it was very consistent with who I was and and it was good for me, because I think through things like like literature and fiction and biography, you learn so much about the world, about how different people are confronted with challenges, how they process their lives, how they overcome these challenges or not or not, it just exposes you to so much. Michael Hingson 15:49 Yeah, and so I'll bet you had some challenges finding some sort of real, permanent job after getting a degree in English? Scott Hornstein 16:03 Yes, I did. But when I got out the idea of it didn't cross my mind that people actually would not earn a great living by being just an artist. What did I want to do? I wanted to write. I wanted to be involved in music. I wanted to act. I did all these things until the point when I got thoroughly fed up with being poor, with not having a dime in my pocket. Ever starving to death is, is sort of what you would call it. Yeah, yeah. You know, I did. I have modest success. Yes, I was able to keep myself off the streets, but no, it was no way for a career. It was no way to even be able to afford your own apartment, for gosh sakes. So I from there i i had done a lot of promotion for the different things that I was involved in, trying to get audiences, trying to get awareness of what I was doing, and that led me to have some contacts inside of CBS. And when I started looking for a job, I started talking to these folks, and they offered me a job. So here I was, and actually gainfully employed. Michael Hingson 17:44 What was the job? Well, I Scott Hornstein 17:47 was sort of a gopher for my first job. Mostly what I did was type, but I do have one good story for you. So I was down in the depths of the CBS Broadcast Center, which is all the way on the west side of 5017 and it's an old milk factory, so which they had converted to broadcast purposes. And so there were long holes, and the halls would always slope down. And there was one day where I was late for a meeting, and I came running down the halls, and there are always these swinging doors, I guess, for in case there's a fire or something, and I'm bursting through the doors, and I go running, and I burst through the next set of doors, and I'm running, and I burst through the next set of doors, and I knock this guy right on his bum. I pick him up, I dust him off. I say, I am so sorry. He says, Don't worry about a thing. It's all fine. I continue running. A friend of mine grabs me and says, Did you see Paul Newman? Michael Hingson 19:10 There you are. Scott Hornstein 19:12 So I have the unique entry on my resume of knocking Paul Newman to the ground. Michael Hingson 19:22 I Well, at least he was civil and nice about it. Scott Hornstein 19:26 He was very nice about it, though. Yeah, so I worked there and then through my writing, because I was writing for a film magazine at night, which, of course, didn't pay a cent, not a cent, but I got to go to all the premiers, and I got to meet all the people and interview all the people so whatever. So through that, I was able to go over to the main building and answer letters for Bill Paley, who was the. Michael Hingson 20:00 Chairman, Chairman, I said, Yes, right, Scott Hornstein 20:02 and it was my job to explain to everybody why Mr. Paley, I never called him, Bill, never, nobody, no, no, why he was right and they were wrong. That was my job, and that I did that for a little while, I can honestly say that I enjoyed having money in my pocket, but that was not the most fulfilling of jobs, and from there, I was able to go over and get my first marketing position, working for the Columbia record and tape Club, which was part of CBS Records at that time. And when I Ben or Dover was the president of Columbia House at that time, and when he made me the offer, he gave me one of the great life lessons that I've I've ever had. And he said, Scott, if you sit in your office and you do exactly what I ask you to do, and you do it on time, and you do it perfectly, we are not going to get along. But if you are out there and you're trying this and you're trying that, and this works, and that doesn't work, but you get up and you keep trying, we're going to be fast friends. Interesting. Yeah, yeah. That's something that has stayed with me my whole life. One of the great pieces of advice that I've ever gotten, Michael Hingson 21:57 well the for me, what's fascinating about it is thinking about how many people would really do that and allow that to happen, but it's really what more people should be doing. I've I've always maintained that the biggest problem with bosses is that they boss people around too much, rather than encouraging them and helping them and using their own talents to help people be more creative. When I hire sales people, the first thing I always told them was, well, the second thing because the first thing I always told them was, you need to understand right up front if you're going to sell here, you have to learn to turn perceived liabilities into assets. And that's got a story behind it. But the second thing that I always talked about was my job isn't to boss you around. I hired you because you convinced me that you're supposed to be able to do the job, and we'll see how that goes. But you should be able to but my job is to work with you to figure out how I can use my talents to help you and to enhance what you do to make you more successful. And the people who got that did really well, because we usually did things differently, and we both learned how to figure out and actually figure out how to work with each other and be very successful. But the people who didn't get it and wouldn't try that, generally, weren't all that successful. Scott Hornstein 23:26 Not terribly surprised, sir. You know, I think that people miss the the humanity of all this. And that if we bring our respective strengths and work together, that it's going to be a more complete and more successful whole than if I try and dominate you and tell you what to do, right, just that hasn't been a successful formula for me. I have never done well with people who tried to tell me exactly what to do, which is probably why I went out on my own. Probably why, in the greater scheme of things that I I did well, working for people from Columbia House. I met this guy on the train, and we got friendly, and he said he worked for an advertising agency, and they were looking for somebody would I be interested in interviewing? And this was with the young and Rubicon. And I did get the job, and I did work my way up to an account supervisor. And then i i said, i. Hate this, and I went back to be a copywriter and worked my way up to be a creative director. But, you know, I went on my own on January 1 of 86 and it was like a liberation for me, because at that point there was a new a new president of the division that I worked for, and he was not a nurturing individual. He was more of the dominant kind of you'll do what I tell you to do. Didn't sit well with me at all, and I had the opportunity to go on my own. So I I packed up my dolls and dishes, and I walked in on January 2, and I said, Bill, I quit. Michael Hingson 26:02 There you go. Was it hard for you to do that? Scott Hornstein 26:11 You know, at that point? So I here I am. I'm a creative director. I got the office on Madison Avenue, and I'm doing freelance all over the place, not only because it was extra money, but because it was it was fueling my creativity. It was giving me something back. It was fun. And I really like to have fun. I have so much fun working with people and that interaction that that humanity, the spark of humanity. So I was doing a lot of freelance, and I wrote this proposal for this one design group who was near where I was living at that time, and it got sold. So they said, Do you want to you want to work on it? And at that point in my life, I didn't have any responsibilities. I had a studio apartment there that was real cheap. And I said, If I don't try this now, yeah, I don't think I'll ever try it. So that's what I did. I quit, and I walked out the door into the great unknown, Michael Hingson 27:39 and the entrepreneurial spirit took over. Scott Hornstein 27:43 It did, and it worked well for about six, seven months, and then we got to the summertime, and I couldn't get arrested for a while. But you know, you have to take it one day at a time. And I figured, all right, well, let's just be open and network and see what's going on. It's not the time to quit. It's not the time to go back and get a job. And I was fortunate in that I was sitting at the desk one day, and this one guy called me, and I had met him before his folks ran one of the biggest, or actually the biggest, telemarketing agency in New York at that time, and I had met, met this fellow, and he said, I got this project. I've been asking around for creative source, and three people gave me your name. So I figured, well, let's go talk. And that turned into a very, very good situation for me, it gave me a lot of responsibility and a lot of leeway to take all the things that I had learned and put them in service of my client and I had a ball. I loved it. The only thing I didn't love was the and I did love this for a while was the constant travel. Now, everybody doesn't travel, and they're all sitting in their rooms at home, looking at screens. But that was that was a great opportunity for me to to spread my wings and to take and I learned so much one of the. Initial assignments I had was for IBM and IBM at that time was, was Mount Olympus. Oh my gosh, working for IBM, and I worked in tandem with this research group. We were all working on the introduction of the IBM ThinkPad and what these folks, they had a methodology they called voice of customer research, which was a qualitative research we're talking to decision makers from a carefully prepared Interview Guide to come up with the attitudes, the insights that we could put together to to come up with a solution. And I was fascinated by this of how to tap into what what the customer really wants by talking to the customer. How unusual. Michael Hingson 31:16 What a concept. Oh yeah. I mean Scott Hornstein 31:19 then and now, it's still the operative phrase of this would be a wonderful business, business, if it wasn't for all those annoying customers and and this just turned that on its head. That's another thing that I learned that has stayed with me through my entire career, is that for the the storytelling, and what I mean by storytelling is, is two things. Is, first, you know all your stories are going to come from what you consider to be your brand, but if you're not developing your brand according to the wants, the needs, the desires, the expressed future state that your Customers want, then then you're wide of the mark. So I was able to bring this in, and I think do a much better job for my customers. Now, the way that relates into storytelling is that you're you're able to take what you do and put it into the story of how your customer succeeds with the hero in the hero's journey, is Michael Hingson 32:55 your customer, your customer? Why do you think that is such a successful tactic to use, Scott Hornstein 33:02 because everybody else is completely enamored of themselves. When other companies craft their their brand, it's mostly because why they think they are special and what their vision tells them is their future. And quite frankly, most customers really don't care when, when a new customer first confronts you and your brand. They ask three questions, who are you? Why should I care? And what's in it for me? And if you can't answer those, if the story that you tell whether complete or in fragments or in in different parts according to where they are on their consideration journey. It doesn't resonate. It doesn't resonate. Hey, I have the best technology out there. I have brilliant people working on this technology. And guess what? Your technology? Somebody will eat your technology in 18 months, and I don't care, I want to know. What does it do for me? Michael Hingson 34:28 Yeah, as opposed to saying, After asking enough questions, I have technology that will solve this problem that you have identified. Let me tell you about it. Is that okay? Exactly? Scott Hornstein 34:44 Yeah, exactly. And as odd as it sounds, that helps you to stand out in the field, in a crowded Michael Hingson 34:55 field, it does, but it's also all about the. Relating to the customer and getting the customer to establish a rapport and relating to you. And when you, as you pointed out, make it about the customer, and you talk in such a way that clearly, you're demonstrating you're interested in the customer and what they want they're going to relate to you. Scott Hornstein 35:24 There's two, two things in there that, well, there's a million things in there that are particularly true. And the first is not only recognizing and and internalizing the goals of your client, but also opening yourself up and saying, these are people. These are humans. And the other real distinguishing fact that a lot of people don't either realize or embrace is that in business to business, and I've spent most of my life in business to business, it's all personal. It's all about personal connections. It's all about trust. And call me crazy, but I am not going to trust a machine. I will have confidence in technology, but my trust is going to be placed in the human through this, one anecdote that that is has really impressed me is that I was doing one of these interviews once, and I was talking to the CEO of of this company. And I said, Well, you know, I of course, I'm working for company A and you've been a client for a long time. What's, what's the greatest benefit that you get from this company? And without hesitation, he said, our salesman. Our salesman is part of our team. He understands who we are, he knows what we need, and he goes and he gets it. So that kind of that, to me, has always been a touchstone on things. Michael Hingson 37:43 Well, the fact that the salesman earned that reputation, and the President was willing to acknowledge it is really important and crucial. Scott Hornstein 37:56 And within that, I would say the very important word that you used is earn. You need to earn that trust. Sure it doesn't come just because you have brilliant technology. It's all people. It's all personal, all people. Michael Hingson 38:20 And that's success, the successful sales people are people who understand and work to earn trust. Scott Hornstein 38:32 Well said, and I think that particularly in this age of accelerating remoteness, that this concept of earning the trust and the person to person becomes a compelling competitive differentiator. And I think that that telling the story of of how you make your customers successful, of the role you play, of where you're going, this allows you to bridge some of those troubled waters to people who are sitting remote. It helps you to open your ears you know where you're going, so you can listen, yeah, Michael Hingson 39:40 well, and that's an extremely important thing to to keep in mind and to continue to hone, because bottom line is, it's all about, as I said, trust, and it certainly is about earning, and that isn't something you. First, it's something that you understand. Scott Hornstein 40:04 It's a gift that can only be bestowed on your customer. You can want it, but they're the only ones who can give you. Your brand is the meal you prepare. You but your reputation is the review, right? So, yeah, you gotta earn that trust. Michael Hingson 40:32 So how long so you you own your own company? How long has the company been in existence? Scott Hornstein 40:40 I Well, let's see. I went on my own on January 1 in 1986 and I am still without visible means of support. Michael Hingson 40:58 Well, there you go, same company all along, huh? Scott Hornstein 41:03 I Yeah, you know, do different work with different people, sure, but yes, it's still me. Michael Hingson 41:13 It's still, do you actually have a company and a name or anything like that? Scott Hornstein 41:17 I did. I did for a long time. I operated under Hornstein associates, okay, and recently I have dropped that and I just work as myself. I think that I had employees, then I had expandable, retractable resources then, and I'm not so interested in doing that right now. I am interested in working as and I love working as part of a team. Collaboration is my middle name. I might not have put that on my resume, but yeah, and I'm just, I'm really just interested in being me these days. Michael Hingson 42:13 That's fair. There's nothing wrong with that. No, well, in your current role, what do you think is the greatest contribution you've made to your clients, and I'd love an example, a story about that. Scott Hornstein 42:28 I would love to tell you a story. Oh, good. So one of my clients is a manufacturer. And they manufacture of all things, barcode scanners, as you would use in a warehouse and in a warehouse, absolutely everything, including the employees, has a barcode. Theirs is different than the the ones that you would normally see, the ones that like have a pistol grip. These are, these are new. It's new technology. They're ergonomically designed. They sit on the back of your hand. They're lightweight. They have more capabilities. They're faster and more accurate. Well, that sounds like sliced bread. However, they had a big problem in that all the scanners in all the warehouses come from the titans of the universe, the Motorola's, the great big names and these great, you know the old saying of Nobody ever got fired for buying IBM. Well, you know, if they need more scanners. Why would they go elsewhere? They just go back and get the same thing. So the the big problem is, is how to penetrate this market? And we did it. I worked with them in a number of ways. The first way was to conduct interviews, qualitative interviews, with the executive team, to come up with their their brand. What did they think? What did they think that was most important? And they said, clearly, the productivity gains, not only is this faster, not only can we prove that this is faster, but the the technology is so advanced that now we can also give you. Information from the shop floor. Well, then we talked to their their partners, who were already selling things into these warehouses. And we talked to a number of companies that were within their ICP, their ideal customer profile, I think that's very important to be prospecting with the folks who can make best use of your products and services. And what we found is that it wasn't just the productivity, it was that we solved other problems as well, and without going heavily into it, we solved the a big safety problem. We made the shop floor more secure and safer for the workers. So we changed the message from Warehouse productivity to the warehouse floor of making each employee safer, able to contribute more and able to have a better satisfaction, and that we were able to roll out into a into great messaging. The initial campaign was solely focused on the workers, and our offer was We challenge you to a scan off our scanners, against yours, your employees, your products, your warehouse. Let's have a head to head competition, because we then knew from these interviews, from working with the partners, that once these employees got the ergonomic the lightweight, ergonomic scanners on their hands, and realized how much faster They were, and how much safer that they were, that they would be our champions. And in fact, that's what, what happened. I can go deeper into the story, but it it became a story. Instead of coming in and just saying, boost your productivity, it's the scanners work for your your overall productivity. It helps you to keep your customers satisfied, your workers, one of the big problems that they're having is maintaining a stable and experienced workforce, this changed the characteristic of the shop floor, and it changed the character, how the employees themselves described their work environment. So we were able to take that and weave a story that went from one end of the warehouse to the other with benefits for everybody in between. So you said, What is the the one you said, the greatest benefit, I would say the contribution that I'm most proud of, it's that it's to recast the brand, the messaging, in the form, in the shape of the customer, of what they need, of helping them to achieve the future state that they want. And I'm sorry for a long winded answer, Michael Hingson 49:10 yes, that's okay. Not a not a problem. So let me what would you say are the two or three major accomplishments or achievements in your career, and what did they teach you? Scott Hornstein 49:26 Well, you know, I think the the achievements in my career, well, the first one I would mention was incorporating that, that voice of customer research, bringing the customer to the planning table, letting the executives, the sales people, the marketers, unite around, how does the customer express their hopes, their dreams, their challenges? I would say the second. Uh, is this idea of taking all of the content of all of the messaging and and unifying it? Some people call it a pillar view. I call it storytelling, of relaying these things so that you are giving your prospects and your customers the information that they need when they need it, at the specific point in their consideration journey, when this is most important, and it might be that a research report for a prospect that talks about some of the challenges in the marketplace and what's being done, it might be as simple for a customer as a as a video on how do you do this? You know, how do you screw in a light bulb? Oh, here it is. Everybody's used to that. The the third thing, and, and this is something, forgive me, for which I am, I am very proud, is that now I take this experience and this expertise, and through the organization called score, I'm able to give this back to people who are are trying to make their way as entrepreneurs Michael Hingson 51:35 through the Small Business Administration. And score, yes, Scott Hornstein 51:40 very proud of that. I get so much for from that. Michael Hingson 51:46 Well, what would you say are maybe the two or three major achievements for you in life, and what did you learn? Or what did they teach you? Or are they the same Scott Hornstein 51:57 I did? Well, I would say they're they're the same, and yet they're a little bit different. The first one is, is that it's only very few people who lead the charmed life where they are never knocked down. I'm not one of those people, and I've been knocked down several times, both professionally and personally, and to get back up, I to have that, and you will forgive me if I borrow a phrase that indomitable spirit that says, no, sorry, I'm getting back up again. And I can do this. And it may not be comfortable and it may not be easy, but I can do this. So there was that I think that having kids and then grandkids has taught me an awful lot about about interpersonal relationships, about the fact that there isn't anything more important than family, not by a long shot, and from these different things. I mean, certainly, as you I was, I didn't have the same experience, but 911 affected me deeply, deeply and and then it quite frankly, there was 2008 when I saw my my business and my finances sort of twirl up into the sky like like the Wizard of Oz, like that house in the beginning, Michael Hingson 54:09 but still, Scott Hornstein 54:16 And I persevere, yeah. So I think that that perseverance, that that focus on on family, on humanity. And I would say there's one other thing in there, is that. And this is a hard one. Observation is that I can't do anything about yesterday, and tomorrow is beyond my reach, so I I have to take Michael Hingson 54:56 today, but you can certainly use yesterday. As a learning experience, Scott Hornstein 55:01 I am the sum of all my parts, absolutely, but my focus isn't today, and using everything that I've learned certainly. You know, I got tongue tied there for just a minute. Michael Hingson 55:19 I hear you, though, when did you get married? Scott Hornstein 55:25 I got married in 87 I I met my wife commuting on the train to New York. Michael Hingson 55:35 So you had actually made the decision to could to quit and so on, before you met and married her. Scott Hornstein 55:43 No, no, I was, I was I met her while I still had a job in advertising. That's why I was commuting to New York. And you know, in the morning there was a bunch of us. We'd hold seats for each other and just camaraderie, yeah, you know, have our coffee. Did she? Did she work? She did she did she was she joined the group because she knew she had just gotten a job in New York. And of course, for those who don't know New York? When I say New York, I mean Manhattan, the city. Nobody thinks of any of the boroughs Michael Hingson 56:27 as part of New York. Scott Hornstein 56:31 And yeah, I and one day gone in, she fell asleep on my shoulder, and the rest is history. There you go. Michael Hingson 56:41 What So, what did she think when you quit and went completely out on your own? Scott Hornstein 56:48 I you know, I never specifically asked her, but I would think that she would have thought that maybe I was not as solid, maybe not as much marriage material, maybe a little bit of a risk taker. I did not see it as as taking a risk, though, at that time, but it was actually great for us, just great for us. And yeah, met there, and then I quit. Shortly thereafter, she was still commuting. And then things started to just take off, yeah, yeah, both for my career and for the relationship, yeah. Michael Hingson 57:51 And again, the rest of course, as they say, is history. Scott Hornstein 57:56 It is. And here I am now in Reston, Virginia, and we moved to Reston because both daughters are in close proximity, and my two grandchildren. And you know, am I still confronted with the knock downs and the and the get up again. Yeah, the marketplace is very crazy today. The big companies are doing great, the mid size companies, which is my Market, and it's by choice, because I like dealing with senior management. I like dealing with the people who make the decisions, who if we decide something's going to happen, it happens and and you can see the impact on the culture, on on the finances, on the customer base. These guys are it's tough out there right now. Let me say that it's it's tough to know which way to go. This doesn't seem to be anything that's sure at the moment. Michael Hingson 59:11 Yeah, it's definitely a challenging world and and then the government isn't necessarily helping that a lot either. But again, resilience is an important thing, and the fact is that we all need to learn that we can survive and surmount whatever comes along. Scott Hornstein 59:33 And let me just throw in AI that is a big disruptor at the moment that nobody actually knows Michael Hingson 59:43 what to do with it. I think people have various ideas there. There are a lot of different people with a lot of different ideas. And AI can be a very powerful tool to help but it is a tool. It is not an end all. Um. Yeah, and well said, I think that, you know, even I, when I first heard about AI, I heard people complaining about how students were writing their papers using AI, and you couldn't tell and almost immediately I realized, and thought, so what the trick is, what are you going to do about it. And what I've what I've said many times to teachers, is let students use AI if that's what they're going to use to write their papers, and then they turn them in. And what you do is you take one period, and you call each student up and you say, All right, I've read your paper. I have it here. I want you now to defend your paper, and you have one minute, you're going to find out very quickly who really knows what they're talking about. Scott Hornstein 1:00:47 That, in fact, is brilliant. Michael Hingson 1:00:49 I think it's a very I think it's a very powerful tool. I use AI in writing, but I use it in that. I will use it, I will I will ask it questions and get ideas, and I'll ask other questions and get other ideas, and then I will put them together, however, because I know that I can write better than AI can write, and maybe the time will come when it'll mimic me pretty well, but still, I can write better than AI can write, but AI's got a lot more resources to come up with ideas. Scott Hornstein 1:01:21 It does. It does. And with that, it's a fantastic tool. The differentiator, as I see it, for most of my stuff, is that AI has read about all this stuff, but I've lived it, so I'm going to trust me at the end, Michael Hingson 1:01:45 and when I talk about surviving the World Trade Center and teaching people what I learned that helped me in the World Trade Center, I point out most people, if there's an emergency, read signs and they're told go this way to escape or to get out or do this or do that, but there's still signs, and they don't know anything. I don't read signs, needless to say, and what I did was spent a fair amount of time truly learning all I could about the World Trade Center where things were, what the emergency evacuation procedures were what would happen in an emergency and so on. And so for me, it was knowledge and not just relying on a sign. And so when September 11 happened, a mindset kicked in, and we talked about that in my my latest book, live like a guide dog. But that's what it's about, is it's all about knowledge and truly having that information, and that's what you can trust. Scott Hornstein 1:02:48 I'll give you a big amen on that one. Michael Hingson 1:02:52 Well, this has been a lot of fun to do. We've been Can you believe we've been doing this an hour? My gosh, time, I know having fun. Scott Hornstein 1:03:03 It's fun. And I would say again, in closing, I just have enormous respect for what you've accomplished, what you've done. This is been a great privilege for me. I thank you very much. Michael Hingson 1:03:19 Well, it's been an honor for me, and I really value all the comments, the advice, the thoughts that you've shared, and hopefully people will take them to heart. And I would say to all of you out there, if you'd like to reach out to Scott, how do they do that? Well, there you go. See, just, just type, well, right? Scott Hornstein 1:03:42 That's it. If you, if you sent an email to Scott dot Hornstein at Gmail, you'll get me. Michael Hingson 1:03:56 And Hornstein is spelled Scott Hornstein 1:03:58 H, O, R, N, S, T, E, I, Michael Hingson 1:04:03 N, and again, it's scott.hornstein@gmail.com Scott Hornstein 1:04:09 that's that's the deal. There you go. Well, find me on LinkedIn. You can find me on medium. I'm all over the place. Michael Hingson 1:04:18 There you are. Well, I hope people will reach out, because I think you will enhance anything that they're doing, and certainly trust is a big part of it, and you earn it, which is great. So thank you for being here, and I want to thank all of you for listening and watching us wherever you are. Please give us a five star review and a rating and but definitely give us a review as well. We appreciate that. If you know anyone else who ought to be a guest, Scott, you as well. We're always looking for more people to have on, so please introduce us and Scott. If you want to come on again, we can talk about that too. That'd be kind of fun. But I want to thank what I want to thank you again for being here. This has been fun, and I appreciate you being here with us today and and so thank you very much for doing it. Scott Hornstein 1:05:07 My all the pleasure is all mine. Michael Hingson 1:05:14 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.
Craig's Dedication and Favorite Quote:I'd like to dedicate the episode to all of the Texas voters who voted in favor of Prop 5 in 2019 and the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund in 2023. These wins for Texas State Parks help us build, maintain, and staff our incredible parks. The park experience would be a lot different without this funding.My favorite quote was popularized by Gene Wilder in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory: A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men. Episode Description:In this episode of Trailblazing Texas Podcast, I sit down with Craig, Superintendent of Abilene State Park, to talk about leadership, conservation, and the quiet strength of this West Texas gem.Craig shares his journey with Texas Parks & Wildlife, what inspired him to work in parks, and what daily life really looks like as a superintendent. We talk first impressions of the park, the atmosphere visitors notice right away, and what makes Abilene stand out among Texas' state parks.We dive into camping options, favorite campsites, hiking trails, wildlife, and the best seasons to visit. Craig offers practical tips for first-time campers and hikers, along with insight into how Leave No Trace helps protect this special place.One of the highlights of our conversation is the park's CCC history, the structures, legacy, and why preserving that story matters just as much as protecting the land itself.We wrap up with ranger favorites, underrated spots, and a perfect one-day itinerary if you're planning your first visit.If Abilene State Park isn't on your radar yet, it should be.
In 1974 Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder set out to parody Frankenstein... did they succeed? We investigate.
The original. The OG. The Gene Wilder masterpiece. And sadly, the end of our three-part Wonka deep dive! Come with Pappy, Josh, Stevie and Film Dylan and you'll see be in a world of pure imagination. ************** A sweet boy from a poor family dreams of finding one of five golden tickets hidden inside chocolate bar wrappers which will admit him to the eccentric and reclusive Willy Wonka's magical factory. One after another, tickets are discovered by ghastly children - but will the lad find the last remaining one and have all his dreams come true? Release date June 30, 1971 (USA) Director Mel Stuart Story by Roald Dahl Adapted from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Budget 3 million USD
A lot of rescheduling leaves not a lot to talk about this week in physical media but Erik Childress and Peter Sobczynski still power through. They include one of the most inventive (and expensive) comedies of all-time, a Johnnie To action film, Viggo Mortensen in one of his first starring roles. Finally, you have the cable staple that was the first pairing of Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner that in more ways than one led to the title of this week's episode.3:10 - Criterion (Playtime (4K))17:06 - Alliance (Hanky Panky)30:10 - Shout (The Big Heat (1988) (4K))34:17 - Arrow (American Yakuza)44:27 – New Theatrical Title On Blu-ray (Nuremberg)45:59 - New Blu-ray AnnouncementsCLICK ON THE FILMS TO RENT OR PURCHASE AND HELP OUT THE MOVIE MADNESS PODCASTUSE COUPON “MOVIEMADNESS” TO GET 10% OFF ALL DUBBY PRODUCTSSIGN UP FOR AUDIBLEBe sure to check outErik's Weekly Box Office Column – At Rotten TomatoesCritics' Classics Series – At Elk Grove Cinema in Elk Grove Village, ILChicago Screening Schedule - All the films coming to theaters and streamingPhysical Media Schedule - Click & Buy upcoming titles for your library.(Direct purchases help the Movie Madness podcast with a few pennies.)Erik's Linktree - Where you can follow Erik and his work anywhere and everywhere.The Movie Madness Podcast has been recognized by Million Podcasts as one of the Top 100 Best Movie Review Podcasts as well as in the Top 60 Film Festival Podcasts and Top 100 Cinephile Podcasts. MillionPodcasts is an intelligently curated, all-in-one podcast database for discovering and contacting podcast hosts and producers in your niche perfect for PR pitches and collaborations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit erikthemovieman.substack.com
A new HBO Max documentary just dropped called Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! It's about, well, Mel Brooks! And yes, he turned 99 this past June. We're revisiting our 2013 conversation with the film and comedy legend, where he chatted with us about fighting in World War II, the genius of Gene Wilder, and much more!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
In episode 45, Johnny talks to Auckland-based Radio New Zealand journalist Nik Dirga. Nik moved to New Zealand from the USA in 2006. He has more than 30 years of journalism experience, for publications in California, New York, Mississippi and Oregon and has won multiple awards for his reporting and essays. On this side of the world, his work has been published by Radio New Zealand, the New Zealand Listener, the New Zealand Herald, the Australian Associated Press, the Spinoff and much, much more.Their chat includes a look at a slew of this year's Oscar-nominated films, they discuss the work of David Cronenberg, Billy Wilder and Charlie Chaplin, they take a deep dive into the messy, uneven films of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor, and Nik shares his experiences two years ago watching the actual filming of one of 2025's movie masterpieces……This conversation was recorded face to face in late-January of 2026.Thanks to James Van As who wrote and performed the brilliant podcast music (check out James' Loco Looper game) and to Willow Van As who designed the amazing artwork and provided general podcast support.You can contact My Movie DNA on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter @mymovieDNA or email mymovieDNA@gmail.com.Check out Johnny's new podcast series, 500 Films: A Journey Through Genre Cinema, available wherever you get your podcasts.
Subscribe to Greg Fitzsimmons: https://bit.ly/subGregFitz One of the quickest minds in the biz Ian Bagg joins me. We laugh. Oh we laugh. We have a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, career longevity, and the realities of grinding it out in clubs before viral success. The two dig into comedy history and influences including Mel Brooks, Richard Pryor, Gene Wilder, Jonathan Winters, and the evolution of stand-up, while sharing brutal road stories, bombing at private gigs, and behind-the-scenes roast chaos. This episode blends sharp comedy, insider Hollywood stories, and unfiltered stand-up talk, making it a must-listen for fans of comedy podcasts, stand-up comedy, and Greg Fitzsimmons' FITZDOG Radio. Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to https://trymiracle.com/FITZDOG and use the code FITZDOG to claim your FREE 3 PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF. Follow Greg Fitzsimmons: Facebook: https://facebook.com/FitzdogRadio Instagram: https://instagram.com/gregfitzsimmons Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregfitzshow Official Website: http://gregfitzsimmons.com Tour Dates: https://bit.ly/GregFitzTour Merch: https://bit.ly/GregFitzMerch “Dear Mrs. Fitzsimmons” Book: https://amzn.to/2Z2bB82 “Life on Stage” Comedy Special: https://bit.ly/GregFitzSpecial Listen to Greg Fitzsimmons: Fitzdog Radio: https://bit.ly/FitzdogRadio Sunday Papers: http://bit.ly/SundayPapersPod Childish: http://childishpod.com Watch more Greg Fitzsimmons: Latest Uploads: https://bit.ly/latestGregFitz Fitzdog Radio: https://bit.ly/radioGregFitz Sunday Papers: https://bit.ly/sundayGregFitz Stand Up Comedy: https://bit.ly/comedyGregFitz Popular Videos: https://bit.ly/popGregFitz About Greg Fitzsimmons: Mixing an incisive wit with scathing sarcasm, Greg Fitzsimmons is an accomplished stand-up, an Emmy Award winning writer, and a host on TV, radio and his own podcasts. Greg is host of the popular “FitzDog Radio” podcast (https://bit.ly/FitzdogRadio), as well as “Sunday Papers” with co-host Mike Gibbons (http://bit.ly/SundayPapersPod) and “Childish” with co-host Alison Rosen (http://childishpod.com). A regular with Conan O'Brien and Jimmy Kimmel, Greg also frequents “The Joe Rogan Experience,” “Lights Out with David Spade,” and has made more than 50 visits to “The Howard Stern Show.” Howard gave Greg his own show on Sirius/XM which lasted more than 10 years. Greg's one-hour standup special, “Life On Stage,” was named a Top 10 Comedy Release by LA Weekly. The special premiered on Comedy Central and is now available on Amazon Prime, as a DVD, or a download (https://bit.ly/GregFitzSpecial). Greg's 2011 book, Dear Mrs. Fitzsimmons (https://amzn.to/2Z2bB82), climbed the best-seller charts and garnered outstanding reviews from NPR and Vanity Fair. Greg appeared in the Netflix series “Santa Clarita Diet,” the Emmy-winning FX series “Louie,” spent five years as a panelist on VH1's “Best Week Ever,” was a reoccurring panelist on “Chelsea Lately,” and starred in two half-hour stand-up specials on Comedy Central. Greg wrote and appeared on the Judd Apatow HBO series “Crashing.” Writing credits include HBO's “Lucky Louie,” “Cedric the Entertainer Presents,” “Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher,” “The Man Show” and many others. On his mantle beside the four Daytime Emmys he won as a writer and producer on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” sit “The Jury Award for Best Comedian” from The HBO Comedy Arts Festival and a Cable Ace Award for hosting the MTV game show "Idiot Savants." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Diane and Sean discuss "the best" Mel Brooks film of all time (?), Young Frankenstein. Episode music is, "Puttin' On the Ritz", written Irving Berlin, performed by Gene Wilder and Peter Boyle.- Our theme song is by Brushy One String- Artwork by Marlaine LePage- Why Do We Own This DVD? Merch available at Teepublic- Follow the show on social media:- BlueSky: WhyDoWeOwnThisDVD- IG: @whydoweownthisdvd- Tumblr: WhyDoWeOwnThisDVD- Follow Sean's Plants on IG: @lookitmahplants- Watch Sean be bad at video games on TwitchSupport the show
Geoff, Gavin and Andrew talk about 86ing, table for wallpapering, desk reveal, fun facts, B&Q, Bov Mong, tape invention, sap tap, stickiest country, Gene Wilder, pig ass, pork cuts, blade steak, Pig Parts Draft, secret mayo, white foods, womps and gloggles, FIFA Netflix, Red Dead Redemption Netflix, barista interaction, interactions, small talk, James Cromwell, President, and a ruling. Start this episode at 10:50something PM. Support us directly at https://www.patreon.com/TheRegulationPod Stay up to date, get exclusive supplemental content, and connect with other Regulation Listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What happens when you take two comedy legends and place them in prison?? :o Well in this particular case, in their second of four collaborations, you have Gene Wilder (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles) paired up with Richard Pryor (Bustin Loose, Brewster's Millions, Blue Collar) paired up as two out-of-work-actors who end up in the wrong place and the wrong time and are convicted of a bank heist which they did not commit. As a result, they are both sent to a southwestern prison where they team up with other prisoners to eventually escape via the opportunity of a prison rodeo....and HILARITY ensues! Directed by the late great Oscar-winner Sidney Poitier (yes THAT Sidney Poitier...he was also a director), let's see how this smash hit comedy blockbuster from a different time (forty-five years ago to be exact) holds up.....Host: Geoff GershonEdited By Ella GershonProducer: Marlene GershonSend us a textSupport the showhttps://livingforthecinema.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Living-for-the-Cinema-Podcast-101167838847578Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livingforthecinema/Letterboxd:https://letterboxd.com/Living4Cinema/
For Food & Family Month, the So Many Sequels crew unwraps one of the strangest and most iconic family films of all time, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971). Gene Wilder delivers one of cinema's most unpredictable performances, and we break down why his version of Wonka is still the gold standard of chaotic candy moguls.From unsettling tunnel boat rides to bratty children meeting VERY questionable fates, we revisit the film's dark humor, musical numbers, and the surprisingly emotional heart at its center. The guys share their childhood memories of the movie, debate Wilder vs. Depp vs. Chalamet, and explore how the film became both a cult classic and a meme factory.It's nostalgic, bizarre, deliciously weird, and the perfect pick for Food & Family Month.
TJ McCormack is filling in for Lionel on the Red Apple Podcast Network, bringing a cornucopia of conversation spanning politics, life, and cinematic history. This hour covers loads of ground, starting with a deep dive into great comedy films like Stripes, Caddyshack, and the genius pairing of Gene Wilder and Richard Prior. But the laughs quickly turn to frustration as McCormack addresses the insanely rude people who dominate our lives—the great unwashed who use speakerphones in closed quarters, watch videos without headphones, and treat public transit like their private living room. Plus, hear about TJ's hellish week fighting his dying Volvo XC90 and why he may have to move on, alongside caller confessions about gym suspension fines for phone use and car repair disasters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Steam Powered Movies! The podcast hosted by Dana & Mike Fraedrich where we watch steampunk films and then talk about them. This month we saw and then discussed the 1974 Mel Brooks directed Gene Wilder vehicle "Young Frankenstein". Other topics include: unwieldy broccoli, Dana vs Miss Piggy, and the dangers of math! If you enjoy this podcast, please leave us a review!Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/7St3aZ2cxSOn Bluesky @steampoweredmovies.bsky.socialInstagram & Threads @SteamPoweredMovieswww.SteamPoweredMovies.comFor more info on Dana's books & events visit www.WordsByDana.comTheme music by Mike Fraedrich (c) 2022Produced by Mike Fraedrich
This week on Shat the Movies, it's alive! We're dusting off Young Frankenstein (1974), Mel Brooks' black-and-white masterpiece that parodies horror classics with heart, brains, and a healthy dose of innuendo. Gene Wilder leads a pitch-perfect cast including Teri Garr, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, and Cloris Leachman in one of the most quotable comedies of all time. Gene and Big D dive into the film's legacy, brilliant performances, and whether this monster still has life in 2024. Movie Summary:Respected medical lecturer Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) learns that he has inherited his infamous grandfather's estate in Transylvania. Arriving at the castle, Dr. Frankenstein soon begins to recreate his grandfather's experiments with the help of servants Igor (Marty Feldman), Inga (Teri Garr) and the fearsome Frau Blücher (Cloris Leachman). After he creates his own monster (Peter Boyle), new complications ensue with the arrival of the doctor's fiancée, Elizabeth (Madeline Kahn). Commissioned by Emmett C. Support the Walk to Save Animals Donation link: http://www.tinyurl.com/shatpod Subscribe Now Android: https://www.shatpod.com/android Apple/iTunes: https://www.shatpod.com/apple Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: https://www.shatpod.com/contact Commission Movie: https://www.shatpod.com/support Support with Paypal: https://www.shatpod.com/paypal Support With Venmo: https://www.shatpod.com/venmo Shop Merchandise: https://www.shatpod.com/shop Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: https://www.facebook.com/guyznite
Mel Brooks's classic 1974 movie Young Frankenstein parodies the iconic Frankenstein movies of the 1930s. This Halloween, we're featuring our interviews with director Mel Brooks and stars Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle, Teri Garr and Cloris Leachman. And film critic Justin Chang reviews the new film Bugonia.Follow Fresh Air on instagram @nprfreshair, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter for gems from the Fresh Air archive, staff recommendations, and a peek behind the scenes. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Give my spoilers liiiiiife!!!! Thanks to Abigail, Bryan and Teddy for recommending this Spooky Spoiler! ********* Respected medical lecturer Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) learns that he has inherited his infamous grandfather's estate in Transylvania. Arriving at the castle, Dr. Frankenstein soon begins to recreate his grandfather's experiments with the help of servants Igor (Marty Feldman), Inga (Teri Garr) and the fearsome Frau Blücher (Cloris Leachman). After he creates his own monster (Peter Boyle), new complications ensue with the arrival of the doctor's fiancée, Elizabeth (Madeline Kahn). Release date: December 15, 1974 (USA) Director: Mel Brooks Story by: Mel Brooks, Gene Wilder, Mary Shelley Screenplay: Mel Brooks, Gene Wilder Producer: Michael Gruskoff Running time: 1h 46m
Send us a textAs the last four years, it's time for our annual salute to Scary Season on the pod --- a little film nosh to whet your appetite for the fun of Halloween ahead. Last season we went down one of the paths of the classic Universal Pictures lineup of horror films, with the foundational Dracula. This season, we're headed down another path of classics from the golden days of Universal, but the third in the series of this particular horror group. Not the film Frankenstein, not Bride Of Frankenstein, but the third and a nice addition (and the last that made sense) in the trail of the monster created by scientist Henry Frankenstein, the story of his human progeny. It's Son Of Frankenstein! You knew that was coming next! Why start with the third in the series? The first two, directed by James Whale, were great and foundational in their own right. But we do dislike Colin Clive chewing the scenery as Henry Frankenstein in the first two films, as well as a thin set of supporting actors. If we're going to have an actor chewing the scenery, how about Basil Rathbone? Or Bela Lugosi? Also, many scenes in Son are immediately recognizable, as Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder mined so much of the story and characterizations for their inimitable film Young Frankenstein. Sure, the blind man played by legendary Gene Hackman in Young rose from a story line in Bride --- credit where credit is due. But most of the rest is Son. It's just fun to watch and mark… Okay, that's settled…Website and blog: www.thosewonderfulpeople.comIG: @thosewonderfulpeopleTwitter: @FilmsInTheDark
To celebrate the release of Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein (Netflix, 2025), Bella and Nick revisit three unforgettable film adaptations of Mary Shelley's iconic Gothic novel.From the classic Universal monster movies that defined early Hollywood horror, to Mel Brooks' legendary parody and Kenneth Branagh's (somewhat) faithful 1994 retelling, this episode of the Gimme Three Podcast dives into how each filmmaker reimagined Frankenstein for a new generation.First, James Whale and Boris Karloff create the pre-Code masterpiece that cemented the image of Frankenstein's monster in pop culture. Second, Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks deliver a comedic yet affectionate homage in the cult favorite Young Frankenstein (1974). Finally, Kenneth Branagh directs Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1994), starring Robert De Niro as The Creature in a lavish, Shakespearean take on the timeless story.Whether you're a horror movie buff, a classic film fan, or just curious how Mary Shelley's Frankenstein keeps coming back to life on screen, this episode has you covered.❗️SEND US A TEXT MESSAGE ❗️Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
All these questions are on make believe places! LOVE TRIVIA WITH BUDDS? CHECK OUT THE MNEMONIC MEMORY PODCAST! “Grow your brain one leaf at a time—tune in to The Mnemonic Memory Podcast.” http://www.themnemonictreepodcast.com/ Fact of the Day: Heroin was once marketed and sold by Bayer as a non-addictive cough medicine. Triple Connections: Teri Garr, Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle THE FIRST TRIVIA QUESTION STARTS AT 01:29 SUPPORT THE SHOW MONTHLY, LISTEN AD-FREE FOR JUST $1 A MONTH: www.Patreon.com/TriviaWithBudds INSTANT DOWNLOAD DIGITAL TRIVIA GAMES ON ETSY, GRAB ONE NOW! GET A CUSTOM EPISODE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES: Email ryanbudds@gmail.com Theme song by www.soundcloud.com/Frawsty Bed Music: "EDM Detection Mode" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ http://TriviaWithBudds.com http://Facebook.com/TriviaWithBudds http://Instagram.com/ryanbudds Book a party, corporate event, or fundraiser anytime by emailing ryanbudds@gmail.com or use the contact form here: https://www.triviawithbudds.com/contact SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL MY AMAZING PATREON SUBSCRIBERS INCLUDING: Mollie Dominic Vernon Heagy Brian Clough Nathalie Avelar Becky and Joe Heiman Natasha raina Waqas Ali leslie gerhardt Skilletbrew Bringeka Brooks Martin Yves Bouyssounouse Sam Diane White Youngblood Evan Lemons Trophy Husband Trivia Rye Josloff Lynnette Keel Nathan Stenstrom Lillian Campbell Jerry Loven Ansley Bennett Gee Jamie Greig Jeremy Yoder Adam Jacoby rondell Adam Suzan Chelsea Walker Tiffany Poplin Bill Bavar Sarah Dan Katelyn Turner Keiva Brannigan Keith Martin Sue First Steve Hoeker Jessica Allen Michael Anthony White Lauren Glassman Brian Williams Henry Wagner Brett Livaudais Linda Elswick Carter A. Fourqurean KC Khoury Tonya Charles Justly Maya Brandon Lavin Kathy McHale Chuck Nealen Courtney French Nikki Long Mark Zarate Laura Palmer JT Dean Bratton Kristy Erin Burgess Chris Arneson Trenton Sullivan Jen and Nic Michele Lindemann Ben Stitzel Michael Redman Timothy Heavner Jeff Foust Richard Lefdal Myles Bagby Jenna Leatherman Albert Thomas Kimberly Brown Tracy Oldaker Sara Zimmerman Madeleine Garvey Jenni Yetter JohnB Patrick Leahy Dillon Enderby James Brown Christy Shipley Alexander Calder Ricky Carney Paul McLaughlin Casey OConnor Willy Powell Robert Casey Rich Hyjack Matthew Frost Brian Salyer Greg Bristow Megan Donnelly Jim Fields Mo Martinez Luke Mckay Simon Time Feana Nevel
GGACP celebrates the birthday of Emmy-winning actress Carol Kane (b. June 18) with this ENCORE presentation of an interview from 2020. In this episode, Carol talks about the cinema of the 1970s, Oscar acceptance speeches, the generosity of Jack Nicholson, the inventiveness of Andy Kaufman and her admiration for (and friendship with) the legendary Bette Davis. Also, Bill Murray takes a beating, Mike Nichols performs a magic trick, Gilbert kibitzes with Charles Durning and Carol takes a (career-changing) call from Gene Wilder. PLUS: Fritz Feld! Defending “Ishtar”! Saluting Hal Ashby! “Harry and Walter Go to New York”! And Carol Kane fills in for…Carole King? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices