Podcasts about watchthis

Cyborg Awakening: Mamoru Oshii's Ghost in the Shell From time to time this podcast allows Mr. Chavez & Myself the opportunity to explore new genre's. With the encouragement and recommendations of WatchThis listeners, we have had the opportunity to engage in new experiences a number of times. Some of these new viewings have been from The World of Japanese Anime (Thank You, Mr. Burroughs!). This week we dive into one of the very best, Mamoru Oshii's 1995 dystopian masterpiece Ghost in the Shell. It is rare that a film is able to deliver on so many different levels (entertaining/exciting - insightful/thought-provoking), but this is precisely what Oshii's film does. What could have been a simple and obvious look into a bleak and misery-infused Science-Fiction future is, rather, an insightful and compelling examination of Artificial Intelligence, The Soul . . . its relation to the species and culture, and intellectual and emotional awareness. This is an incredible film that mixes Fritz Lang, Blade Runner, martial-arts & gun-play, and the police procedural to examine grand existential questions. Take a listen as we continue diving deeper and deeper into the world of AI and its promises, hopes, and threats for the future. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Synthetic Sexuality: Alex Garland's Ex Machina AI continues to hold our fascination. This week Mr. Chavez & I dive into Alex Garland's examination of Artificial Intelligence with 2014s Ex Machina. Set, as Garland describes, "Ten minutes from now," Ex Machina is a fascinating film with exceptional performances from Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac, and Alicia Vikander. Few films are able to capture the subtleties and realities of science fiction paranoia with this level of skill. As these talks have continued over the last few episodes, the paranoia is becoming greater as the realities of our world begin to live up to predictions.  Garland does  creative and powerful work; asking questions and presenting situations that seem to be more likely than simple imagination. Take a listen and let us know what you think . . . gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Bad Bitch, Cyborg, & Liquid Metal: James Cameron's Terminator 2: Judgement Day Go to last week's introduction to James Cameron's The Terminator . . . fast-forward seven years. Sarah Connor is no longer a "damsel in distress". James Cameron has worked his Sigourney Weaver magical transformation on another heroine, creating one of the great female action stars in all of cinema. Once again, Sarah Connor is facing the destruction of the world. However this time she is fully aware of the danger in front, behind, above, and below. Cameron's imagination - coupled with a sheer will and an (at that time) unheard of and unlimited budget, would unleash one of the greatest sequels of all time. Basically a remake of the first film with a series of adjustments to continue the story in a logical manner, Cameron proved that imagination and drive could make up for the simplicity of a plot that had been presented before - Cinema is no stranger to The Apocalypse in its many forms. Take a listen as we reminisce on this incredible film and continue falling down the rabbit hole as we dive further into the struggles, dangers, and promise of AI. It's a good talk. Let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many, Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Skynet AI 2029: James Cameron's The Terminator  If you grew up in the 1980s, you were living in a decade that would be controlled by raunchy teen sex comedies (Porky's, My Tutor, Private Lessons), John Hughes (The Breakfast Club, 16 Candles, Ferris Bueller's Day Off), and the emergence of straight to video. However there was one genre that stood above all others and would forever alter the output of Hollywood. Action films had always been a part of Hollywood, however the 1980s would unleash the talents of Sylvester Stallone and Bruce Willis, as well as lesser box office talents such as Steven Seagal, Jean Claude Van Damme, and the continuing presence of 70s holdover, Chuck Norris. One name would stand above all others, however. Inhabiting the title role of the 1984 B-Movie, Low-Budget Classic, The Terminator, Director James Cameron would establish Austrian-born, seven-time Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger, as - possibly - the greatest Action-Star to ever grace the Big Screen. The Terminator would change cinema and introduce both actor and director as formidable and genre defining talents. This week Mr. Chavez & I dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence and discuss one of the greatest Science Fiction films ever made.  What are the lessons we should have learned from Cameron's film? What did we miss? How far away are we from Skynet becoming self-aware? There's a whole lot to unpack and we're diving right into all of it.  This was an exciting and wonderfully joyous trip back to the 80s and a film that greatly defined both our youths, the decade, and the evolving world of Cinema. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Trailer Blazers Podcast - Episode 188 "Jared Leto Strikes Again"   Freaky Tales (redband)  https://youtu.be/CgEzrGjCMC8?si=WDHC6lc5KMObK2vA Borderline https://youtu.be/Kc_GBp785Po?si=ApH-hRfFd8kA32MW Andor s2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbRnj_YFnPs Andor s2 alternative trailer https://youtu.be/duN-KQgOjYs?si=cI9k3JK9SKNwAgvD .  Death Stranding 2 https://youtu.be/eT_A2gPhTIw?si=jCouOaaydxtArUAV Nintendo Switch 2 Overview Trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9flte56erE8&pp=0gcJCb8Ag7Wk3p_U  Fountain of Youth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gB9h0ELEf0&pp=ygUZZm91bnRhaW4gb2YgeW91dGggdHJhaWxlctIHCQm_AIO1pN6f1A%3D%3D  Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld https://youtu.be/vjgVJxZifi0?si=82s1RrTHmxi4X13j The Naked Gun https://youtu.be/CZ4ozYyKzNU?si=uZps_5kBhBtQMCX- 5 Nights at Freddy's 2 https://youtu.be/YhwgL3n-oa4?si=rzS8MQLgm2P6Zwsy Freakier Friday https://youtu.be/6InqnCdc9Qk?si=Ulp0AlyHvGMujkkQ.  The Life of Chuck https://youtu.be/eZu7uOmkm98?si=vKvuUL0SsGFlXf3q Poker face s2 https://youtu.be/c1FIpfAPRmE?si=7iUc5z96pGDKhAHy Lilo & Stitch https://youtu.be/wZfBuWYYje8?si=3NixyNaFp3K7yiN3 Tron: Ares https://youtu.be/9KVG_X_7Naw?si=6xc8n8ooua6lSJOV  Neighborhood Watch https://youtu.be/zcec9fZn1rg?si=hD6ViUmPb448t5ut Predator: Killer of Killers https://wsww.youtube.com/watch?v=eWzPKrNoSyM    Patron SELECTS Puma Man (Kevin) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxP2yNjuXF4&ab_channel=WatchThis%21   Instagram: @TrailerBlazersPodcast Email us @ TrailerBlazersPod@gmail.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/trailerblazers or TrailerBlazersPodcast.com  Leave us a voicemail at HIT-IT-TIFA-8 448-488-4328   Rate & Review us on Apple Podcasts please!

Gonzo Hellscape: Terry Gilliam's Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas In 1998 Director Terry Gilliam - a director whose cinematic career has been fraught with difficulty on the level of Job (see 2002s Lost in La Mancha) was finally successful in bringing to the screen Hunter S. Thompson's 1971 Classic roman á clef of excess, paranoia, idealism, and disappointment, Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas: A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream. A polariizing film upon its release in 1998, Giliam's interpretation of Thompson's 1971 vision is both awe-inspiring and troubling. There is a tremendous amount to admire in this film while at the same time there is a tremendous amount to be critical of . . . We tackle both perspectives and struggle to find some greater understanding of the late 60s, early 70s, and pain and disappointment of the 2nd decade of a new millennium. It's an interesting and volatile discussion between two friends. Take a listen and let us know what yout think about our reaction to Thompson's vision as rendered through the mind of Terry Gilliam and the equally outrageous and powerful performances of stars Johnny Depp (as Thompson) and Benicio Del Toro (as Chicano activist Oscar Zeta Acosta - the 300lb Samoan of Thompson's writing). As always we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many, Many, Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

This week we continue digging through the archives to remember the past ten years of WatchThis W/RickRamos. (Episodes #395 - #410) Great Episodes . . . Great Discussions.  We dive into Mr. Chavez's Favorite Cinematic Decade - The 1990s, as well as looks at Horror both Domestic and International: Dante/Carpenter/Craven & Cronenberg/Kobayashi/Na Hong-jin/Jodorowsky, Oliver Stone, Defining the 80s, but we start everything with a terrific, exciting, worthy re-boot of the Predator series, Prey. We're having a hell of a good time remembering these episodes. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Godzilla, the 60s, Hopes, & Monsters  A return to 10 years of WatchThis W/RickRamos - This week we return to the vault to look at one of the greatest movie monsters of all time . . . Toho's Godzilla. We look back on the tumultuous 1960s and the changing face of Cinema, Monsters, and Hopes for the Future. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can be reached at gondormaos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.  

Cynicism, Rogan, & What Would Carlin Say? - Remembering 500 Episodes We come back to this celebration as we look through the archives and reminisce and what these episodes have meant to us. Take a listen as we remember the good times, arguments, and great cultural gifts that Pop Culture, Music, Television, and - of course - Cinema have gifted us. It's a fun conversation . . . We hope you enjoy it. Send us your thioughts: gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Carry the Fire, Get to the Coast: John Hillcoat's The Road  Bleak & Dark, Hopeless & Beautiful . . . On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I sit down to discuss one of the most brutal and powerful films to emerge from the studio system in decades. In 2009 Director John Hillcoat adapted Cormac McCarthy's 2006 novel The Road. Featuring a career best Viggo Mortensen as "Man" and newcomer Kodi Smit-McPhee as "Boy" - two of the last surviving humans, left to wander the desperate and perilous remains of a world rapidly dying. There's only so much that should be said in this synopsis. The magic of a viewing is in the discovery. It's a thrill for the both of us to watch, conemplate, and discuss this film. Take a listen. We hope you enjoy it. As always we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.  

Dumbing Down the Future - Mike Judge's Idiocracy This is an especially fun one! This week Mr. Chavez & I take a trip into a very funny, very frightening, and very likely future. In 2006 20th Century Fox released Mike Judge's Idiocracy in a manner that almost guaranteed that no one would ever see it.  . . . but the film would survive. Judge's bleak and pessiimistic vision of the future - the year 2505 - would find a cult audience that would embrace its hilarious prediction of a Professional Wrestler President, warehouse stores as a kind of Mecca, Fast-Food Restaurants as cheap, disgusting food and sex providers, and a population of such minimal intelligence that an "Average Joe" cryogenically frozen and awoken in the future would find himself the "Smartest Man on Earth". Judge spares no targets and we are grateful for the ride Idiocracy takes its viewers on. There's a whole lot to unpack here. Great Satire is usually ahead of its time and that is surely the case with this film. Judge would later joke, "I'm no prophet, I was off by 490 years." Sadly, he was right. Take a listen and let us know if you agree. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Dreams with Gilliam, The Rolling Stones Through the Years,  The Silent Voice, The Magic of Tarkovsky, Zappa, A Trio of Very Different Noir On this week's episode Mr. Chavez & I return to reminiscing on 500 shows. We begin with the beauty and magic of Terry Gilliam with The Adventures of Baron Munchausen, through a look at Rock 'N Roll and The Rolling Stones, A beginning series of movies that defined their decades, the beauty of Soviet Cinema with Andrei Tarkovsky, and The Dark Brilliance of Film Noir. It's a fun look back; We hope you'll take the ride with us. Many Thanks. We can always be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Cinematic Karma - Stanley Kubrick's                     A Clockwork Orange  WatchThis fan and BuyMeACoffee contributor, Alan Lamberg, suggests this week's title, Stanley Kubrick's 1971 controversial (masterpiece - ?), A Clockwork Orange. In the late 60s and early 70s the cinematic landscape was changing and evolving into a very different creature. Arthur Penn's Bonnie & Clyde and Sam Peckinpah's The Wild Bunch would usher in a new era of cinematic violence. Stanley Kubrick would soon pick up the baton and create one of the most polarizing and controversial films ever made. From the novella by Anthony Burgess, Kubrick would create a dystopian England that would change the attitudes and expectations of film audiences. With a powerful and compelling performance by Malcolm McDowell, A Clockwork Orange has riveted audiences since its premiere in 1971. Fifty plus years later we have to ask ourselves if the film continues to offend and frighten as it did those many years ago. Mr. Chavez & I definitely have our opinions and are thrilled to lay it out for you the listener. Sit down, download, and enjoy a spirited discussion on the film, its role in cinematic history, and Kubrick's continuing power as a filmmaker. It's a fun time. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Whitey Saves the Day, Jake Won't Go Down, The Beatles Break Up, & More This week Mr. Chavez & I return to a project that began in the middle of last year, releasing an episode recorded many months ago, and exploring the first 500 shows of WatchThis W/RickRamos. It's taken some time to get back to this, but we find ourselves returning to Memory Lane and plan on spending the next few months peppering the podcast with our reflections on what has come before; what it meant then, what it means now, and what it may mean in the future. A whole lot to unwrap, but we're having a great time doing it. This week reflections on: Denis Villeneuve's Dune, Scorsese's Raging Bull, Hitchcock's Rear Window, and Peter Jackson's The Beatles: Get Back. The opinions are as strong as ever. We thank you for taking the trip with us. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com  - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

PTSD? Anxiety? Depression? Stress? Racing thoughts? Exhaustion? Do any of these things trouble you? Let us introduce you to “Floating.” Laura had an amazing experience during her first float, so we invited the President of True Rest Float Spa to the show to talk about it. You'll learn about all the benefits of floating and why you must try it. Mandy Miller, her mom Sue Ellen, and baby Rawley bring good vibes and positivity to this episode. We hope you enjoy learning about this cool service. Plus, military members get free floats once a month. Listen and watch to find out when. Thanks for checking us out. Love your podcast!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/laura-cain-after-dark--4162487/support.

David Lynch: The Art of Dark Dreams  This week Mr. Chavez & I remember and say farewell to one of the greats of Cinema - David Lynch (01/20/46 - 01/15/25). Goodbye, Mr. Lynch; we were fortunate to have you.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

When Evil Men Remember: Joshua Oppenheimer, Christina Cynn, & an Anonymous Indonesian Director's The Act of Killing This week Mr. Chavez & I go up river for one of the most powerful, depressing, and meaningful documentaries ever made, The Act of Killing. This 2012 documentary explores the Indonesian mass killings, rapes, and tortures that occurred between 1965 and 1966 of alleged Communist Chinese and others opposed to the Indonesian New Order Regime. What sets this documentary apart from other films of similar subject matter is the straight-forward and excited re-tellings of these war crimes by the very torturers and murderers originally involved and still living unpunished in the country. The filmmakers approach the subject matter in a novel way, allowing the perpetrators to speak freely and - horrifically - to re-enact their crimes through a series of "cinematic re-creations" stylized as War Films, Westerns, and Film Noir. A film that demands to be seen and is an incredible example of what the art of cinema and documentaries are capable of. Take a listen as we explore this powerful and disturbing motion picture. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Angry, White Man: Joel Schumacher's Falling Down Looking at the world - past, present, and future - this week Mr. Chavez & I sit down to watch and discuss Joel Schumacher's 1993 look at American male angst, disgust, and disspointment, Falling Down. As we "welcome" a return of the Republicans to political power, Schumacher's film is a brutal look at the disspointment of the American Dream. Michael Douglas leads with a powerful performance of a late-30s/mid 40s everyman, laid-off, divorced, and confused by his no longer being "Economicallay Viable". Sharing the screen is a strong, later-career performance by the great Robert Duvall as the Detective who connects the dots. A better film than it deserves to be, Falling Down is a powerful examination of what happens when the Dream falls apart. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Detective or Pervert: David Lynch's Blue Velvet  This week Mr. Chavez & I dive into The World of David Lynch. Amazingly, Lynch has been able to survive and thrive in the Hollywood System for over four decades. From his beginnings with a labor of love called Eraserhead (1977) thru critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for 1980s The Elephant Man, and a colossal failure attempting an adaptation of Frank Herbert's Dune (1984), which could have easily ended his filmmaking career, Lynch bounced back with a truly strange, mesmerizing, and captivating work. Polarizing for critics when first released in 1986, Lynch's Blue Velvet - from his own original script - would confuse, anger, and enthrall audiences. Blue Velvet announced the emergence of a singular voice in filmmaking. It's a thrill for us to sit down and re-watch this masterpiece featuring early performances from Kyle MacLachlan, Isabella Rosellini, Laura Dern, and the re-emergence in a career-defining role as the homicidal and psychotic Frank Booth, Dennis Hopper. Lynch's film examines small town America while painting a dark and pessimistic look at the underbelly of Americana. Take a lesson as we return to this Dark World. Thanks for your continued love and support. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Dracula Done to Death - Robert Egger's Nosferatu This week Mr. Chavez & I run to our local movie theaters to watch, contemplate, and bring to you Robert Egger's end of the year re-imagining of the F.W. Murnau Classic, Nosferatu. Re-makes are notoriously difficult to pull of and Egger's has his hands full with one of the greatest films in the History of Cinema. There is a great deal to admire in this new rendering of the Horror Classic. Where does it succeed? Where does it fail? There is so much to dig into on this week's episode. Take a listen and let us know your impression of this new "Dracula" Story. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Time Destroys Everything - Gaspar Noé's Irreversible We're closing in on our two final films in our  "Dark Cinema" showcase. This week we look at Gaspar Noé's 2002 controversial and troubling film, Irreversible. Arguably one of the most difficult viewing experiences ever unleashed on movie-watching audiences, Noé's exploration on storytelling (a backwards playing narrative) could have easily been a gimmick with little to say in the way of exploring themes, however Noé deftly handles the obvious showboating of such a technique to add a true, honest, and enlightening understanding of his story of a brutal rape and  beating, revenge, mistaken identity, and murder. This is not a film for the easily offended, but it's also not for those looking for the extreme violence and blood-lust of a Death Wish 2 or I Spit on Your Grave. With Irreversible, Noé has crafted a truly powerful and beautifully realized look at violence, sexual violence, and the unfolding of time and it's commentary on the aforementioned. Take a listen and let us know what you think. It's a deep and thoughtful conversation. We continue to be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Perv with a Pen - Terry Zwigoff's Crumb This week we race back to 1994 with one of the great documentaries of the modern era, Terry Zwigoff's portrait of underground comic artist, Robert Crumb. A simple profile of the artist and the polarizing reaction to his work alone would have made for an interesting and enjoyable film; Zwigoff's decision to focus on Crumb's extended family (two brothers and mother) forms a more powerful and disturbing work. With an abusive childhood to expand on and two examples of talent overpowered by mental difficulties, Zwigoff highlights how powerful art is in giving voice to the pain and desperation that exists within all of us, but is tempered by an artist who can find the levels of supportive expression that can save him from the insanity of an imbalanced brain. Crumb is truly a powerful and englightening film. However disturbing it may be is worth the rewards the film has to offer. Take a listen as we discuss this beautifully realized and deeply troubling film. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Blood, Metal, C*m - David Cronenberg's CRASH  For Darkness in Popular Cinema it's difficult to find a director that reaches deeper and more disturbing images than Canadian auteur, David Cronenberg. 1997s Crash is - arguably - his most divisive, polarizing, and controversial film. Winner of a special Cannes Jury Award (which jury president, Francis Ford Coppola refused to hand to Cronenberg), Crash examines symphorophiliacs  (A paraphilia involving sexual arousal from staging and watching disasters, such as traffic collisions.) as they discover one another and push the limits of their sexual kinks, desires, and passions. This is not an easy film to view, however it is never boring, and the beauty and complexity of the storytelling is almost unknown in popular cinema (or at least films distributed in theaters). There's nothing like Cronenberg's descent into body dysmmporphia, sexual fetishes, and complex human relationships. Take a listen and let us know what you think. It's a damn good conversation. Lovers of Cinema should be excited. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

This is our second annual Temu Christmas where Erik and Laura dive deep into the dark web of the discount website to find the most hideous things to gift each other. The loser has to wear or display their “gifts” in public. Producer Bryan is the all-important judge of who bought the worst items possible. Watch the holiday horror unfold in this very funny, entertaining, ugly, shocking episode. Who do you think won the Terrible Temu contest? We'd love your input. Get ready for the grossest Christmas gift exchange ever!! And, we sprinkle in a little Double D Showbiz Gossip to add a little fun. Love your podcast!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/laura-cain-after-dark--4162487/support.

 This week on the pod, it's UConn vs. Gonzaga—a showdown that promises to be one of the best games of the college basketball season! Joined by Tuck Clarry of House of Krause and Heat Check College Basketball, we'll break down all the key storylines, from how players like Liam McNeeley, Solo Ball, Alex Karaban, and even Aidan Mahaney can impact the game to the pivotal question: can Samson Johnson and Tarris Reed stay out of foul trouble? We'll also dive into what Gonzaga's two losses mean and what this game could reveal about both teams' long-term prospects. And of course, we've got some exclusive offers from our sponsors Gametime, FanDuel, and Homefield Apparel to share with you. Don't miss this in-depth preview of a huge week in college basketball! Show Notes: Segment 1: UConn vs. Gonzaga – A Marquee MatchupWe start with an overview of why this game is one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the season. What does it mean for both programs in terms of rankings, momentum, and perception? We'll discuss how this game sets the stage for March Madness storylines and what the stakes are for each team as they gear up for this showdown. Segment 2: Key Players and Matchups to WatchThis game will be decided by the stars, but don't sleep on the under-the-radar contributors. We'll break down:• How Liam McNeeley and Solo Ball's versatility could shine in this high-pressure matchup.• Why Alex Karaban's ability to stretch the floor is critical for UConn's offense.• How Aidan Mahaney could be the X-factor for Gonzaga with his poise and playmaking.• Whether Samson Johnson and Tarris Reed can stay out of foul trouble and control the paint against each other. Segment 3: Gonzaga's Early Losses – Cause for Concern or Part of the Process?Gonzaga has already dropped two games this season. Are those losses indicative of deeper issues, or are they simply learning opportunities as the team finds its identity? We'll analyze what went wrong in those games, how the team has adjusted since, and what it means for their approach to this high-stakes matchup against UConn. Sponsored Content: FanDuel:Get ready to tackle the NFL action with FanDuel, America's number one sportsbook. New customers can bet five dollars and get one hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if they win! The FanDuel Sportsbook app makes live betting easy with live stats, play-by-play, and more, all in one place. Just visit FanDuel.com to join today and get started with one hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if you win your first five-dollar bet. Gametime:There's nothing like being courtside for a game, and this season, UConn fans can't wait to watch Alex Karaban and Solo Ball splash the nets. Gametime makes finding great tickets easy with their all-in pricing, panoramic seat views, and lowest price guarantee. Download the Gametime app, use code LockedOnCOLLEGE, and get $20 off your first purchase. Homefield Apparel:Rep your team in style with Homefield Apparel, featuring premium comfort and vintage-inspired designs that celebrate UConn's history. Use promo code UCONN24 at checkout for 15% off your first order at homefieldapparel.com.  

To Neither Have Nor Hold - Tod Browning's The Unknown On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I look back to 1927 for one of the great Actor/Director collaborations - Lon Chaney & Tod Browning. With The Unknown, Chaney & Browning would create one of the most disturbing and beautifully realized films of The Silent Era. Browning's years spent as a youth in circuses and carnivals would inform two of his most famous films (The Unknown and Freaks [1932]). Chaney's dedication to portraying a carnival performer without arms who falls in love with a young Joan Crawford, is a marvel of early cinema. It's a thrill to sit down and discuss this classic and dive into it's strange and troubling elements. It's a fun discussion. We hope you'll enjoy it. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Wall Street Chainsaw Massacre - Mary Harron's American Psycho On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I take a look at director Mary Harron's 2000 adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's American Psycho. A controversial and polarizing film that has gained cultural and critical praise in the nearly quarter century since the film's release (and the 1991 publication of the novel), we are thrilled to discuss the pros (Christian Bales's performance as Patrick Bateman) and cons (a limited scope in portraying and commenting on the society it was showcasing and influencing) of this cult classic. As always, our discussion takes us on a journey into American Culture and a greater understanding in how the culture is both portrayed and influenced by images traveling at 24 frames per second. Take a listen . . . it's a pretty intersting conversation. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.   

Rage for Ratings: Paddy Chayefsky & Sidney Lumet Present NETWORK What was once considered a satire by all (save the two men who made it - they considered it a reflection of what was happening), Paddy Chayefsky and Sidney Lumet's 1976 masterpiece exists as a fifty year harbinger of a media, social, and political reality that has reached its culmination with the current state of American culture. Once considered a blistering social comedy Network has lost a great deal of of its humor in the absurd realities of the third decade of the 21st Century. Mr. Chavez & I are thrilled, excited, depressed, and disgusted . . . all of it coming out in this timely discussion. Take a listen as we look to Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Robert Duvall, Ned Beatty, Beatrice Straight, and (posthumous Oscar winner - the first ever) Peter Finch in this briliant look at the American Media System - Nearly Fifty Years before its Horrible, Horrible Culmination. Take a listen . . . it's a fun talk. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Sun-Soaked Rape-sploitation: Coralie Fargeat's Revenge Sometimes a film fails, but the conversation it inspires is worth the viewing; That appears to be the case with this week's discussion of Coralie Fargeat's 2017 beautifully shot, thinly plotted, obvious and disappointing exploitation film, Revenge. Fargeat (director of last week's episode, The Substance) proves a capable, but limited story-teller. Mr. Chavez and I use Fargeat's film as a jumping off point to understand the rape and revenge genre with comparisons to I Spit on Your Grave, Death Wish (I & 2), and Kill Bill Vol. I & II. What was an unsatisfying and critically disappointing movie watching experience proved to be an interesting and challenging (for us, at least) discussion. We're hoping you share in our enthusiasm. Take a listen . . . we don't think you'll be disappointed. Many Thanks. We can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Young, Hot, Horrible - Coralie Fargeat's The Substance November brings with it a return to the theaters as I venture into the multiplex (and Mr. Chavez grabs up a streaming subscription) for Coralie Fargeat's critically acclaimed attack on Womens' Aging in Tinsel Town, the Male Gaze, Vanity, with a Twilight Zone-like look at an industry that both makes stars and disposes of them in the most cruel and emotionless of ways. There's a whole lot to admire in Coralie Fargeat's sophomore effort, however how much of it is successful, and how much of it is obvious and labored, is what will drive this discussion. Take a listen and see if you agree with our assessments of this art-house effort that is garnering a great deal of attention for its audacity and the performances of Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley. As always we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Our Continued Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Blood - Old & New, Tragedy on the Set, Author & Director, and an Unholy Alliance Back to the Memories. This week Mr. Chavez & I return to reminiscing on the past decade with a look at episodes ranging from the History of Vampires in Cinema, the loss of Brandon Lee on the set of The Crow, the first imagining of Stephen King in Brian De Palma's Carrie, and - finally - our introduction to a cabin in the woods, the Necronomicon, Ash Williams, and the warped mind of Sam Raimi. Take a listen . . . We're having a great time remembering WatchThis W/RickRamos. Take a listen and let us know that you're having a good time - gondoramos@yahoo.com  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

A$$Holes Learn a Lesson - Michael Gornick's Creepshow 2  This week Mr. Chavez & I close out our Annual Halloween episodes with a look at 1987s Creepshow follow-up Creepshow 2 - already creatively innovative. Although not a great film - and lacking the charm, inventiveness, and professionalism of the original - Michael Gornick's (taking over directorial duties from George A. Romero) sequel is fun - but also forgettable. The film is enjoyable if you let go of your expectations, dive into the nostalgia, and remember it's a dumb, fun Horror film. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can always be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. We appreciate your continued support. For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.  

Ribbon of Darkness: Daphné Baiwir's King on Screen  The Halloween Season is coming to a close. Mr. Chavez & I are concluding with a look at the prolific and celebrated novelist, Stephen King. First we begin with a look at Daphné Baiwir's 2022 - French/Belgian financed - Documentary, King on Screen. More a talking head celebration of Stephen King's film adaptations than any kind of serious examination of the novelists work; the subtle difference here is that the majority of the talking heads are directors/producers/screenwriters of Stephen King's film adaptations. Pure fluff, however fluff that leads your favorite podcast through The Looking Glass and into a world of subtlety, grotesqueries, inventiveness, violence, and humanity. The movie is a lot of fun, and - as always - we are even more fun discussing it. Take a listen. You'll have a good time.  As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Old Fangs for a New Monster: Terrence Fisher's Dracula aka Horror of Dracula  October continues to roll along. This week Mr. Chavez & I dive into the world of English Horror with 1958's Dracula aka Horror of Dracula. Although a flawed film that feels lazily directed, Terrence Fisher's film is our introduction to one of the great Dracula's of the Silver Screen - The Brilliant and Mesmerizing Christopher Lee. Lee would appear as Dracula nine times and is probably the most recognized Dracula after Bela Lugosi. Dracula (1958) would create a different kind of menace and a defiantly sexier Dracula. Lee is ably assisted by his on-screen nemesis and acting partner, Peter Cushing, as Van Helsing. The two of these men taking on such iconic roles is more than enough reason to look into this film. We hope you enjoy our talk. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Phantoms of the Field: Kaneto Shindō's Onibaba From time to time, Mr. Chavez & I stumble on what can lovingly be referred to as "hidden cinematic gems". A few weeks ago we discovered (for ourselves, at least) a rarely seen "cult classic" - Herk Harvey's Carnival of Souls. As we continue our look into the Horror genre we discover another film that deserves much greater attention. In 1964 Japanese director, Kaneto Shindō directed a disturbing and rather compelling look into relationships strained by the struggles and horrors of war and the power and drive for survival. Onibaba is Shindo's examination of three people (two women - mother-in-law and daughter - and a man) living, suffering, and fighting for survival through a war-ravaged 14th Century Kyoto. Filmed in beautiful widescreen (2.35:1) Black & White, Shindō's film beautifully captures the war-ravaged countryside (overwhelmingly tall plant stalks) and the people who will murder samurai to survive one day at a time. The talk focuses on the movie, and - as always - steers into a discussion of emotion, humanity, fear, paranoia, and violence. Take a listen . . . it's a fun talk. We can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Send us a textWhat if the fierce rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma was more than just a game? Join us as we explore the fervor of the Red River Rivalry, where the stakes are high and the atmosphere inside the historic Cotton Bowl is nothing short of electric. Witness the unexpected twists of college football, where even heavyweights like Alabama can stumble, and discover how standout players like Cedric Alexander are turning heads and rewriting narratives. Special guest Toby Rowland, the voice of the Oklahoma Sooners, brings his unique insights and reveals his heartwarming story of generosity, adding depth to the spirited competition.Last weekend, college football fans were left in shock as top-ranked teams faced surprising defeats, turning the Power 12 standings on their head. We take a closer look at coaching accountability, the SEC's playoff stronghold, and the exciting potential for further upsets as teams like Ohio State look to shake things up. Engaging quotes from Arkansas' Sam Pittman remind us of the unpredictable nature of the sport, while discussions around conference realignment shed light on the challenges of extensive travel for teams on the road to glory.Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of college sports rivalries, from the bustling energy of East Austin's Whiskey Foxtrot sports bar to heartfelt tributes at Stephen F. Austin. Enjoy nostalgic moments intertwined with the thrill of competition, all backed by personal anecdotes and a nod to the spirit of camaraderie that makes these events unforgettable. As we celebrate Red River Rivalry Week, we salute not only the fierce contestants on the field but the community of fans that bring it all to life.Support the showPlease like and follow each of Stories Inside the Man Cave Podcast social media links on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Tik Tok.

Seven Bloody Schoolgirls: Nobuhiko Obayashi's House There are times when reputation precedes a viewing yet nothing can really prepare you for what you are about to see. Recently Mr. Chavez & I continued our dive into the Halloween Holiday Season with a search for new, frightening, strange, and acclaimed films. This week we stumbled on Nobuhiko Obayashi's 1977 Japanese Cult Classic House. As is often the case, your two favorite movie talkers are at odds with what we take from this film. Mr. Chavez enjoyed the film's inventiveness and originality, while I found it ponderous, boring, and without any kind of interesting focus. Take a listen as eacxh of us argue our points regarding this difficult and surprising film. We can always be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Ghost Dance for the Organ Girl: Herk Harvey's Carnival of Souls  This week Mr. Chavez & I continue our celebration of the Halloween season with a little-seen and incredibly influential cult film from 1962, Herk Harvey's Carnival of Souls. This is truly discovering diamonds in the landfill. Herk Harvey - a director and producer of industrial and educational films based in Lawrence, Kansas - would create one of the most influential films in cinema that would, somehow, remain almost completely unknown.  Harvey's film would be dismissed upon its intitial 1962 release, but would find an audience through television screenings (it was in the public domain) and public arthouse screenings beginning in 1989. Watching the film, it is easy to see Harvey's influence on such varied directors as David Lynch and James Wan, however its strongest influence seems to be on George A. Romero's first zombie film, NIght of the Living Dead. Take a listen as I introduce this forgotten classic to Mr. Chavez and we dig into the power of its images, sound design, and story. It's a fun talk. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

The Beggar, The Blonde, and The Button: Sam Raimi's Drag Me to Hell Take a listen as Mr. Chavez & I continue our annual exploration of Horror for this Halloween Season. This week my podcast partner & I take a look at Sam Raimi's 2009 return to the Horror/Comedy genre. A modest hit when initially released, Raimi's film has developed somewhat of a cult following. Herein lies part of the problem . . . on this week's episode Mr. Chavez & I discuss the importance of the audience experience in enjoying a film of this type. It's a changing movie-watching world. Take a listen to see if you agree with our assessment of how an audience can affect the experience. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.  

Gen Z Xenomorph: Fede Alvarez's Alien: Romulus  No Worries . . . Mr. Chavez & I will be returning to our Never-Ending 500 Episode Retrospective.  However, this week we continue our look into the Horror genre taking us into the Halloween Season, with Fede Alvarez's newest entry into the Alien Series, Alien: Romulus. This 7th film in the series - We Don't Count Those AlienVSPredator Embarassments - takes place between Ridley Scott's original 1979 Alien and James Cameron's 1986 sequel, Aliens. Your two favorite movie podcasters differ wildly on this entry. Take a listen to see which of us you agree with. Is this a tense and exciting entry into the series, or is it simply an attempt to milk blood from a stone. See the movie, take a listen, and let us know what you think. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

The TV Took My Blonde Daughter - Spielberg & Hooper's Poltergeist This week we take a break from our 500 Episode Retrospectives - I really didn't think it would take this long to get through 500 episodes - to bring the cinematic hammer down and dive into The Season of All-Saints. We have an entirely new slew of Cinematic Horror for the next two months with looks at Horror Comedy, Horror Cult, Horror Classics, Foreign Horror, and Literary Horror. It's going to be a fun month as we dive into an 80s Classic . . . The Steven Spielberg Produced/Tobe Hooper Directed Poltergeist.  Mr. Chavez & I have much different takes on this exploration of the supernatural. Take a listen to hear the battle between memory, personal tastes, and better viewings. It's a fun discussion that gives - you - the audience a new and interesting angle on a film that has lived with us for over 40 years. Take a listen. We think you'll have a good time. Hit us up at gondoramos@yahoo.com - As Always, Many Thanks! For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Found Treasure, Excess, Hilarity, and New Authors in Horror We have no idea when this will end, but we're having a hell of a time remembering. Take a listen as Mr. Chavez & I remember The Video Store, New Voices in Horror (Peele/Aster/Eggers), Ultimate Excess (Tarantino's The Hateful 8), Legends (Dylan & McCartney), and a Heartfelt Farewell to a Comedy Legend . . . Mr. Paul Mooney. This was a good time. Let us know what you think. As always we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks. For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Music Televison, Bad Taste, Toxic Masculinity & So Much More It's proving to be a hell of a good time reminiscing on these past ten years. Part 9 is coming at ya. Break open a bottle, take a listen, and enjoy the memories we share. We'd love to hear your thoughts - gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Memories Are Made of This  Part 8 of a never-ending ride back through a decade of WatchThis W/RickRamos. Discussing all manners of cinema, music, television, the culture, and culminating with my leaving Los Angeles after twenty years. It's a good time between two good friends. Take a listen and let us know what you think . . . .  gondoramos@yahoo.com.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Conspiracies & Things to Come Take a listen as we continue our deep dive into a decade of WatchThis W/RickRamos. We're having a great time . . . We hope you're feeling the same. Best Wishes. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

Old, New, and Everything In-Between Neither Mr. Chavez nor I are sure how long this will take, but we are having a great time remembering these last ten years. We hope that we are stirring memories and giving you an idea of the enjoyment we have in recording these shows and the importance that each episode means to us. Take a listen . . . we think you'll enjoy yourselves. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks! For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.  

Down a Darker Path  The memories continue to flow. Take a listen as we remember, argue, laugh, and double-down. This is proving to be a great time for the two of us . . . We can only hope you're enjoying it in the same manner. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

A Never-Ending Talk . . .  We're just having too much fun remembering the last decade and the 500 episodes that have come with it. Take a listen as we amuse ourselves and - hopefully - you. No End in Sight. Just enjoy the ride.  As always we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

And the Band Plays On . . .  What can I say . . . ? This week Mr. Chavez & I continue our leap into the past with a look at 500 episodes and a decade of memories. It's a fun time and we'd love to share our memories, thoughts, thanks, and promises for the future. Take a listen . . . we think you'll enjoy it.  As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks! For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.

More to Say: A Continuing Reminiscence on 500 Episodes Take a listen as Ibrahim & I continue to look back on the decade of episodes we have done. This continues to be a great time for two old friends and our look back at the show, why we do it, how it still excites us, and what it has meant to us as a whole. Take a listen . . . We don't think you'll be dissapointed. As always, we can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com - Many Continued Thanks.  For those of you who would like to donate to this undying labor of love, you can do so with a contribution at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos    - Anything and Everything is appreciated, You Cheap Bastards.