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Herb's picked a few Aussie classics and this week's pick is no exception with the war drama Gallipoli!
Gallipoli, directed by Peter Weir, was a large-scale and highly ambitious undertaking that sought to depict the experiences of young Australian soldiers during the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign of World War I. Weir, who co-wrote the film with David Williamson, worked closely with producer Patricia Lovell and cinematographer Russell Boyd to bring the story to life with authenticity and emotional depth. Filming primarily took place in South Australia and Egypt, using real locations to evoke the desolate battlefields of the Gallipoli Peninsula. The filmmakers worked hard to realistically depict the soldiers’ journey from rural Australia to the trenches, emphasizing the historical details of the era and the grim realities of war.
Casting Mel Gibson and Mark Lee as the young soldiers Archy and Frank, Gallipoli highlighted the friendships, idealism, and patriotism that drove many Australians to enlist. Gibson, who was then relatively unknown, delivered a powerful performance alongside Lee, capturing the emotional toll of the war on young men. To create the movie’s climactic scenes, the production team used hundreds of extras and recreated significant portions of the battlefield, ensuring the film’s epic yet tragic feel. Though budget constraints were a challenge, the film achieved a lasting impact, celebrated for its historical significance, poignant storytelling, and for portraying a pivotal moment in Australian and World War I history.
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Plot Summary:
Two young Australians, Archy and Frank, are inspired by a sense of adventure and patriotism to join the army during World War I. After undergoing basic training and developing a close friendship, they are sent to fight in the Gallipoli campaign against the Ottoman Empire. As they face the brutal realities of war, Archy and Frank come to understand the futility and horror of the battle they are part of.
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Stephen has picked some crackers in the past, and this time, he's chosen the iconic 1991 biopic The Doors.
The production of The Doors (1991), directed by Oliver Stone, was a passionate and meticulous effort to capture the wild spirit of Jim Morrison and the iconic 1960s rock band. Stone, known for his intense filmmaking style, had long been fascinated by Morrison and sought to tell a story that reflected both the mysticism and chaos surrounding the band's rise to fame. Val Kilmer was cast as Jim Morrison, with his intense commitment to the role standing out—Kilmer spent months studying Morrison's mannerisms, voice, and even his singing style. The film incorporated many real-life locations from the band’s history, including Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip, and used these settings to evoke the authentic feel of the late '60s counterculture.
Stone's production team faced the challenge of balancing a factual representation of the band's history with a more stylized, mythical portrayal of Morrison's journey. With the help of surviving band members like Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger, the production sought to ensure the film remained true to the music and the spirit of The Doors. However, some of Morrison’s portrayal as a self-destructive, hedonistic figure led to disputes over historical accuracy, with band members and critics arguing that Stone leaned too heavily on the mythic aspects of Morrison’s persona. Despite these debates, the film was praised for its dynamic cinematography, a powerful performance by Kilmer, and a soundtrack that introduced The Doors’ music to a new generation.
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Plot Summary:
The movie follows the rise and fall of Jim Morrison and his legendary rock band, The Doors. The film chronicles Morrison's journey from a college student in Los Angeles to a countercultural icon, exploring his deep connection to music, poetry, and the darker aspects of his psyche. As the band gains fame, Morrison’s increasing substance abuse and erratic behavior lead to tensions with his bandmates and those closest to him.
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Fehlende Folgen?
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Blake has been a great friend and supporter for a good while now. And hopefully after this review of 1993's Fatal Instinct he still is!
Fatal Instinct was an ambitious attempt to spoof the popular erotic thrillers of the early 1990s, but it quickly became an exercise in comedic misfires. Directed by Carl Reiner, a seasoned comedy veteran, the film set out to parody films like Basic Instinct and Fatal Attraction, blending noir elements with slapstick humor. Reiner cast Armand Assante, known for his serious roles, as the deadpan detective-lawyer Ned Ravine, hoping his straight-faced delivery would amplify the absurdity. The production leaned heavily into noir aesthetics, using moody lighting, shadowy sets, and sultry music to mimic the atmosphere of the thrillers it aimed to lampoon.
Despite the experienced cast and high production values, the film struggled from the outset. The humor, though abundant, felt forced and overplayed, often missing the mark. The balance between parody and slapstick proved difficult to maintain, resulting in a film that felt awkward and uneven. The production team’s commitment to visually recreating the noir vibe couldn't save the film from its misjudged comedic tone, and upon release, Fatal Instinct was met with largely negative reviews. Although it failed to resonate with most audiences, the film did eventually gain a small cult following, largely due to its status as a "so-bad-it's-good" comedy.
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Plot Summary:
Ned Ravine is both a lawyer and a detective because, why not? He’s caught in the middle of a web of utter nonsense: his wife’s trying to bump him off for the insurance money, his psychotic mistress is obsessed with him, and his innocent assistant is head over heels for him. All while he’s trying to solve crimes, and defend the people he's caught in court. The plot throws every classic noir trope into a blender, hits "chaos," and pours out a mad cocktail of mistaken identities, ridiculous schemes, and over-the-top seductions.
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One of Dave's childhood favorites, despite a fair sledding from mates, is up for scrutiny this week! And with a 16 year old Jennifer Connely heading up against a middle aged pop star, what could possibly go wrong?
directed by Jim Henson, was an ambitious blend of puppetry, live-action, and cutting-edge visual effects for its time. The film was a collaboration between Henson and executive producer George Lucas, with a screenplay by Monty Python’s Terry Jones. Conceptual artist Brian Froud, known for his work on The Dark Crystal, played a significant role in designing the fantastical creatures and the world of the labyrinth itself. The movie’s central character, Jareth the Goblin King, was brought to life by David Bowie, who also contributed original songs to the soundtrack, adding a surreal, musical dimension to the film. With a cast that included young Jennifer Connelly and over 100 puppets, the production involved complex puppetry, animatronics, and special effects to bring the magical world to life.
The film was shot primarily at Elstree Studios in the UK, where elaborate sets were built to depict the vast, dreamlike maze. Henson's Creature Shop faced technical challenges, especially with creating characters like Hoggle, a puppet requiring multiple operators to control its facial expressions and movements. Though the film was not a box office success upon release, Labyrinth gained a devoted cult following over the years, praised for its imaginative design, memorable characters, and Bowie’s iconic performance. The film's mix of fantasy, music, and pioneering practical effects has since solidified its place as a beloved classic in fantasy cinema.
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Plot Summary:
Sarah's a 16-year-old girl who is frustrated by her babysitting duties and wishes her infant brother Toby would be taken away by the Goblin King. When her wish is granted and Jareth kidnaps Toby, Sarah has 13 hours to navigate a vast, magical labyrinth to save him before he is turned into a goblin. Along the way, she encounters a host of strange creatures and overcomes various challenges, learning about bravery and friendship. As she gets closer to Jareth's castle, Sarah must confront her own fears and insecurities to rescue Toby and return home.
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Chris stumbled across the original Cage while looking for the worst martial arts movies ever made. So it was only a matter of time before he picked the sequel to cover.
The production of Cage II (1994) is a bit like the cinematic equivalent of an underdog pub brawl—scrappy, gritty, and utterly unapologetic. Directed by Lang Elliott, it’s the kind of low-budget, direct-to-video action flick that harks back to the days when you’d stumble across VHS tapes in a bargain bin and think, "What’s this? Lou Ferrigno punching people for 90 minutes? Sold!" Ferrigno, still riding the wave of his Incredible Hulk fame, teams up with fellow action stalwart Reb Brown, and together they bring all the testosterone-laden camaraderie and fight choreography you’d expect from a film like this. With the focus squarely on practical stunts and hand-to-hand combat, the production maximized what little budget they had by keeping things simple and throwing as many punches as possible.
The film itself is gloriously of its time—grimy underground fight scenes, a plot that’s practically wallpaper for the action, and the kind of over-the-top performances you can’t help but love. Ferrigno and Brown’s onscreen chemistry does most of the heavy lifting, which is fortunate because the budget didn’t allow for any flashy effects or polished cinematography. It’s all raw, muscle-bound energy, which, let’s be honest, is exactly what the audience signed up for. Cage II may not have been a critical darling, but it found its place among fans of 90s action schlock, and that’s no small feat.
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Plot Summary:
Billy Thomas, a brain-damaged Vietnam War veteran, is once again dragged into the brutal world of underground cage fighting. Kidnapped by a criminal syndicate and forced to fight for his life, Billy must rely on his strength and instincts to survive a series of deadly matches. Meanwhile, his loyal friend Scott Monroe sets out on a mission to rescue him, battling against the ruthless criminals who are exploiting Billy for their own gain. Together, the two friends must navigate a violent and dangerous world to find freedom.
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Supporter Leigh's chosen a cult-classic horror movie this week with Demons from 1985. Directed by Lamberto Bava and produced by Dario Argento, is a classic Italian horror film known for its intense gore, vibrant visuals, and relentless pace. The production took place in Berlin, with much of the action set inside an old movie theater, where a group of strangers attends the screening of a mysterious horror film.
Notable for its high-energy approach and practical effects, with Bava and Argento collaborating to create a visceral experience. The transformation sequences and makeup effects were designed to be as grotesque and graphic as possible, setting a new standard for splatter horror. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of heavy metal and synth-driven music from bands like Motley Crue and Billy Idol, heightened the film's aggressive and frenetic atmosphere.
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Plot Summary:
A group of people were invited to a special screening at a mysterious Berlin cinema. Unbeknownst to them, the film they watch is a demonic horror, and when one of the attendees gets injured by a prop mask from the display, she begins to transform into a demon herself. Chaos erupts as the infection spreads, turning the moviegoers into ferocious, bloodthirsty demons. The survivors are forced to fight their way out of the sealed theater while the terrifying situation escalates.
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Supporter Susan from Geek Girl Soup (https://geekgirlsoup.com) has picked some corkers in the past, and this choice is no exception. It's the 1987 body horror comedy, Street Trash.
Street Trash, directed by Jim Muro, was a low-budget endeavor that became known for its outrageous blend of horror, comedy, and social commentary. The film was originally conceived as a short student project by writer Roy Frumkes, but its success led to the development of a full-length feature. Muro, who was only 21 years old at the time, brought his unique vision to the project, heavily influenced by his background in Steadicam operation, which he utilized to create dynamic and fluid camera movements that became a signature of the film’s visual style. Filmed primarily in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and various locations around New York City, Street Trash captures a grimy, apocalyptic version of the city, which perfectly complements its story of melting derelicts and social decay.
The film's practical effects are one of its standout features, delivering some of the most memorable and grotesque gore sequences of 1980s horror cinema. The story revolves around a batch of toxic liquor called "Tenafly Viper," which causes the homeless people who drink it to melt in vividly colorful and shocking ways. Despite its micro-budget, the production team managed to create elaborate melting effects using a combination of foam latex, prosthetics, and colorful slime. These effects, coupled with the film's darkly humorous tone, helped Street Trash gain a cult following. The film was controversial for its unflinching portrayal of societal outcasts and graphic content, but it has since been celebrated for its daring approach to blending genres and its influence on the splatter film subgenre.
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Plot Summary:
In a rundown neighborhood in New York City, a liquor store owner discovers a case of "Tenafly Viper," a mysterious and expired alcoholic beverage. When consumed by the local homeless population, the drink causes their bodies to grotesquely melt, leading to a series of bizarre and horrific deaths. Amidst this gruesome madness, the film also explores the lives of various misfit characters, including two homeless brothers trying to survive on the streets, a deranged junkyard owner, and a corrupt cop, all of whom get caught up in the escalating violence and absurdity that surrounds the toxic brew.
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Dylan's pick for this week is the Legend of Bagger Vance.
The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000), directed by Robert Redford, aimed to capture a blend of magical realism and historical drama set against the backdrop of 1930s Savannah, Georgia. Adapted from the novel by Steven Pressfield, the screenplay by Jeremy Leven focused on themes of redemption and spirituality, embodied by the mysterious caddy, Bagger Vance, played by Will Smith. The film stars Matt Damon as Rannulph Junuh, a war-torn former golfer, and Charlize Theron as his love interest, Adele Invergordon. The production took place primarily in Savannah and other locations in Georgia, chosen for their authentic Southern charm and to reflect the period setting. Redford and his team were meticulous in recreating the look and feel of the era, from the lush golf courses to the vintage wardrobe and set designs, all contributing to the film's nostalgic and mystical atmosphere.
The production was notable for its challenges in capturing both the spiritual undertones and the technical aspects of the sport of golf. To bring authenticity to the golfing scenes, professional golf consultants were employed to work with the actors, ensuring their swings and techniques were accurate. Cinematographer Michael Ballhaus was tasked with creating a visual style that combined the grace of golf with the film's ethereal themes, often using soft lighting and sweeping camera movements to emphasize the serenity of the game. Despite its strong cast and ambitious production values, The Legend of Bagger Vance received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising its aesthetic beauty and performances, while others felt the narrative was overly sentimental. Nonetheless, the film remains notable for its attempt to blend the sports drama genre with a more philosophical, introspective approach.
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Plot Summary:
Rannulph Junuh, a once-promising golfer from Savannah, Georgia, returns home disillusioned and broken after serving in World War I. When a wealthy widow, Adele Invergordon, organizes a high-profile golf tournament to restore her late father's resort, she convinces Junuh to participate against two golf legends. Struggling to find his swing and purpose, Junuh encounters a mysterious caddy named Bagger Vance, who offers not just guidance on the course but also profound life lessons. Through his mentorship, Junuh confronts his inner demons, rekindles his love for the game, and rediscovers his lost sense of self.
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Dave has gone for an iconic action thriller this week with The Fugitive!
The production of The Fugitive (1993) was a complex and ambitious endeavor, led by director Andrew Davis. The film was adapted from the 1960s television series of the same name, and the script underwent several rewrites to craft a narrative that balanced action, drama, and character development. The filmmakers aimed for a realistic tone, emphasizing practical effects over CGI, which is evident in the film’s most memorable set piece—the train crash sequence. This scene was shot using a real train and bus in North Carolina, and it became one of the most expensive practical stunts at the time. The meticulous planning and execution of this scene set the tone for the film's commitment to authenticity and heightened tension, and it became a hallmark of the movie’s production.
Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones were central to the film's success, both bringing a level of intensity and commitment that elevated the material. Ford performed many of his own stunts, enhancing the realism of the action scenes. Meanwhile, Jones' portrayal of U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard was so impactful that it led to an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film was shot on location in Chicago and various other locations, including the Smoky Mountains for the opening escape sequence. The production team’s attention to detail, combined with Davis's direction and the strong chemistry among the cast, helped The Fugitive stand out as a taut and compelling thriller. The film’s combination of innovative stunts, strong character work, and a gripping storyline made it a critical and box-office success, solidifying its place in 1990s cinema.
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Plot Summary:
Dr. Richard Kimble is a Chicago surgeon who is wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife. After a dramatic escape from a prison transport following a train crash, Kimble goes on the run, determined to prove his innocence and find the real killer, a mysterious one-armed man he saw fleeing the crime scene. While he dives into his own investigation to uncover a conspiracy involving his colleagues and a pharmaceutical company, U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard and his team relentlessly pursue him. Kimble tries to stay one step ahead of the law while unraveling the mystery behind his wife's murder.
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This one is from Chris' sweet spot of the early 1990's action movie but very few people have heard of! "Double Trouble" (1992) is an action-comedy film starring the Barbarian Brothers, Peter and David Paul, as twin brothers with vastly different personalities. Peter Jade is a tough, no-nonsense cop, while David Jade is a carefree, muscle-bound nightclub bouncer. Despite their differences, the brothers are forced to team up when they become entangled in a criminal conspiracy involving counterfeit money and the murder of a federal agent. As they navigate through a series of dangerous and comedic situations, the twins must learn to work together, combining their unique skills to take down the criminal organization.
The production of "Double Trouble" leaned heavily into the physicality and charisma of the Paul brothers, capitalizing on their larger-than-life personas. The film was designed to showcase their strength and humor, with plenty of action sequences and comedic moments that played to their strengths. Directed by John Paragon, known for his work on "Pee-wee's Playhouse," the film was shot on a modest budget, emphasizing fast-paced, straightforward action and light-hearted comedy. While "Double Trouble" didn't achieve major box office success, it has since become a cult favorite, particularly among fans of 90s action comedies and the Barbarian Brothers' unique brand of entertainment.
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Plot Summary:
Peter Jade, a tough, by-the-book cop, and David Jade, a laid-back nightclub bouncer. Despite their differences, the brothers are forced to team up when they get caught up in a dangerous criminal conspiracy involving counterfeit money and the murder of a federal agent. As they bicker and clash, the twins must learn to work together, combining their strengths to take down the criminals and bring justice, all while navigating a series of action-packed and humorous situations.
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Returning supporter Glyn has chosen a sci-fi cult-class in the 1986 box-office bomb, Solarbabies.
"Solarbabies" (1986) is a sci-fi adventure film set in a dystopian future where Earth has become a barren wasteland controlled by the oppressive Eco Protectorate, which hoards the planet's dwindling water supply. The story follows a group of orphaned teenagers, known as Solarbabies, who find a mysterious glowing orb named Bodhi that possesses extraordinary powers. The Solarbabies, led by Jason (Jason Patric), believe Bodhi can help them defeat the Eco Protectorate and restore water to the world. As they embark on a daring quest to free Bodhi from the clutches of the Protectorate, they discover the strength of their unity and the power of hope in a desolate world.
The production of "Solarbabies" was marked by its ambitious vision and significant challenges. The film was produced by Mel Brooks' company, Brooksfilms, with a substantial budget that reflected its grand scope. However, the filming process was fraught with difficulties, including extreme conditions in the deserts of Spain where much of the movie was shot. Despite these obstacles, the cast and crew persevered, bringing to life a unique blend of post-apocalyptic adventure and youthful rebellion. Although "Solarbabies" did not achieve commercial success upon its release, it has since gained a cult following, appreciated for its imaginative concept and nostalgic 80s charm.
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Plot Summary:
In a post-apocalyptic future where Earth's water is controlled by the tyrannical Eco Protectorate, a group of orphaned teenagers, known as Solarbabies, stumble upon a mysterious glowing orb named Bodhi, which has the power to restore the planet's water. Realizing Bodhi could be the key to freedom, the Solarbabies embark on a perilous journey to protect it from the Eco Protectorate.
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"Wild Things" (1998) is the pick from Patreon supporter Helen this week. It's definitely a memorable one for both hosts, though maybe not for the intricate twists and turns of the storyline.
"Wild Things" was a sultry neo-noir thriller directed by John McNaughton, renowned for his work on "Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer." The production of "Wild Things" was characterized by its bold and risqué narrative, which required a delicate balance of provocative content and intriguing storytelling. The screenplay, penned by Stephen Peters, was initially seen as a challenging project due to its complex plot filled with twists, turns, and mature themes. Casting was crucial to the film’s success, with the production team bringing together an ensemble that included Kevin Bacon, Matt Dillon, Neve Campbell, and Denise Richards. The chemistry and performances of the cast were pivotal in navigating the film's intricate web of deceit and double-crosses.
Filming took place primarily in the sultry, atmospheric locales of South Florida, utilizing the lush, humid environment to enhance the film's steamy and mysterious tone. The production team faced the challenge of maintaining the film's edgy and controversial elements while ensuring it appealed to mainstream audiences. This involved careful direction and cinematography to balance the film's erotic scenes with its overarching suspenseful and thrilling narrative. Despite initial mixed reviews, "Wild Things" gained a cult following over the years, praised for its audacious plot and the memorable performances of its cast. The film's legacy continues as a standout example of late-90s thrillers that dared to push the envelope.
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Plot Summary:
Sam Lombardo finds himself at the center of a scandal when two students, the wealthy Kelly Van Ryan and the troubled Suzie Toller, accuse him of sexual assault. As Detective Ray Duquette delves into the case, he discovers a tangled web of deceit and betrayal.
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After a couple of big-hitting blockbusters the last couple of weeks, Patreon JAC has remained we stay grounded with the little-known cult movie Tammy and the T-Rex.
"Tammy and the T-Rex," a film so bonkers you'd think the creators were on a week-long bender, was directed by Stewart Raffill. The story behind this 1994 madness starts with Raffill and producer Diane Kirman discovering a fully operational animatronic T-Rex gathering dust in Texas. Seeing a golden opportunity for cinematic lunacy, Raffill churned out a script in a week, featuring a brain transplant that turns a bloke into a dinosaur. They then filmed the whole thing in three weeks flat, probably because they were worried someone might come to their senses and shut the whole thing down.
The cast included a young Denise Richards and Paul Walker, who, bless his soul, is no longer with us. Richards played Tammy, keeping a straight face through scenes where she's meant to be romancing a bloody dinosaur, while Walker had the unenviable task of making us believe he was a human stuck in a prehistoric puppet. They shot it all around sunny California, with the production as chaotic as you'd expect. Critics initially tore it to shreds, but over the years, "Tammy and the T-Rex" has found a cult following who appreciate its sheer, unapologetic insanity. It's a reminder that in the world of movies, sometimes the crazier the idea, the more memorable the result.
Checkout JAC's LetterBoxd review here: https://boxd.it/6suS21.
And also JAC's podcast, Back to the Filmography, where he's currently going through every Jason Stathom movie: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/back-to-the-filmogr.
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Plot Summary:
High school student Michael is viciously attacked and left for dead by a gang of bullies. A mad scientist transplants Michael's brain into a giant animatronic T-Rex, bringing him back to life in an unexpected form. As Michael, now a dinosaur, tries to reconnect with his girlfriend Tammy, he seeks revenge on those who wronged him while navigating the absurdity of his new existence.
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The most rented video of 1991 came out the year previous in cinemas and is this week's pick for Dave.
"Ghost" (1990) was a collaborative effort that blended romance, supernatural elements, and drama to create a timeless film. Directed by Jerry Zucker, known primarily for his work in comedy, the film marked a significant shift in his career. The screenplay, written by Bruce Joel Rubin, provided a compelling narrative that combined love and mystery, which attracted a strong cast including Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg. Swayze played Sam Wheat, a banker who is murdered and becomes a ghost, while Moore portrayed his grieving girlfriend, Molly Jensen. Goldberg’s role as Oda Mae Brown, a psychic who helps Sam communicate with Molly, brought both comedic relief and emotional depth to the film. Her performance was particularly notable, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Filming took place in various locations around New York City, capturing the vibrant and sometimes eerie backdrop that added to the film's atmospheric tension. The production faced challenges, particularly in creating believable special effects for the ghostly sequences. The use of then-state-of-the-art visual effects, combined with practical effects and creative cinematography by Adam Greenberg, helped bring the supernatural elements to life. The iconic scene featuring the Righteous Brothers' song "Unchained Melody" during a pottery-making session between Swayze and Moore became one of the most memorable moments in cinematic history. "Ghost" was released to critical and commercial success, grossing over $500 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1990. Its unique blend of genres and strong performances have ensured its lasting legacy.
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Plot Summary:
After an act of violence claims the life of Sam Wheat, his spirit remains tethered to the mortal realm, driven by an unyielding love for his bereaved partner, Molly Jensen. As Sam grapples with his newfound ethereal existence, he uncovers a nefarious plot behind his untimely demise. With the unlikely assistance of the vivacious and reluctant psychic, Oda Mae Brown, Sam endeavors to protect Molly from impending peril.
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In a departure from martial arts or buddy cop movies, Chris has gone for the heart warming comedy from 1987, Three Men and a Baby.
Three Men and a Baby was an American adaptation of the 1985 French film "Trois Hommes et un Couffin" (Three Men and a Cradle), produced by Touchstone Pictures. The casting was crucial to the film's success, bringing together Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson, three popular actors whose chemistry and comedic timing were essential to the story. The film follows three bachelors who suddenly find themselves responsible for an infant left on their doorstep, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming situations.
Filming took place primarily in New York City, with a large portion of the movie set in a stylish Manhattan apartment designed to reflect the characters' bachelor lifestyles. The production team faced challenges in working with a baby on set, requiring careful coordination and patience to ensure smooth shooting schedules. Nimoy's direction focused on balancing the comedic elements with genuine moments of character development and warmth. The film's lighthearted script, combined with the engaging performances of the leads, contributed to its wide appeal. Upon its release, "Three Men and a Baby" became a box office hit, earning praise for its charming storyline and the chemistry among its stars, ultimately becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year and solidifying its place in 1980s pop culture.
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Plot Summary:
Three carefree bachelors' lives are turned upside down when they find an abandoned baby girl named Mary on their doorstep. Initially clueless about childcare, the trio must learn to care for the infant while juggling their professional and personal lives. As they navigate the challenges of feeding, diapering, and soothing the baby, they form a deep bond with her and each other, transforming from irresponsible bachelors into loving guardians.
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Patreon Spirder-Dan is never one for the obvious pick, and this time he's gone for the 1972 comedy sci-fi cult-classic The Thing With Two Heads.
Checkout some of Dan's fantastic content on https://www.spiderdanandthesecretbores.com.
Directed by Lee Frost, the film was produced by American International Pictures, known for its exploitation films. The story follows a racist, dying doctor, played by Ray Milland, who transplants his head onto the body of a Black death row inmate, portrayed by former NFL star Rosey Grier. The premise combined elements of social commentary with campy horror, aiming to attract audiences with its bizarre and provocative concept. The film's low budget necessitated creative solutions for the special effects, particularly the depiction of the two-headed character, which was achieved using practical effects, makeup, and clever camera angles to create the illusion of a shared body.
Filming took place primarily in Los Angeles, utilizing local locations and sound stages to manage costs effectively. The production schedule was tight, and the cast and crew had to work quickly to complete the project within budget constraints. Despite these challenges, the actors embraced the film's outrageous premise, with Milland and Grier delivering performances that balanced the film's campy tone with moments of genuine humor and tension.
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Plot Summary:
Dr. Maxwell Kirshner is a racist surgeon who, facing terminal illness, transplants his head onto the body of a black death row inmate, Jack Moss. The unlikely duo must navigate their new shared existence, with Kirshner trying to maintain control and Moss seeking freedom.
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This week we're joined by new Patreon John Malone and he's picked the cult classic from 1979, The Warriors.
The Warriors was marked by its ambitious vision and the challenges of shooting on location in New York City. Directed by Walter Hill and based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel of the same name, the film aimed to capture the gritty realism and heightened stylization of gang culture. Hill, known for his minimalist storytelling and action-oriented direction, worked closely with producers Lawrence Gordon and Frank Marshall to bring the story to life. The decision to shoot primarily at night in real NYC locations presented significant logistical challenges, including coordinating with local authorities, handling the city's unpredictable elements, and ensuring the safety of the cast and crew amid the backdrop of the late 1970s crime-ridden urban landscape.
The film's cast, comprised mainly of unknown actors, added to the raw and authentic feel Hill sought. Michael Beck, James Remar, and Deborah Van Valkenburgh were among the ensemble who portrayed the titular gang members. The production faced numerous hurdles, including conflicts with actual local gangs and navigating the complex, nocturnal shoots that spanned several months. Despite these difficulties, the team managed to craft a visually striking and atmospheric film. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of rock and orchestral scores by Barry De Vorzon, further enhanced the film's dynamic and intense mood.
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Plot Summary:
New York City street gang, The Warriors, are framed for the murder of Cyrus, the charismatic leader of the city's most powerful gang, during a massive gang summit. With every gang in the city out for their blood, the Warriors must fight their way from the Bronx to their home turf in Coney Island. As they navigate the city's dangerous streets, they encounter various rival gangs, each with its own unique style and weapons, in a desperate bid for survival.
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Dave's pick this week is the family comedy sci-fi adventure, Short Circuit from 1986.
Short Circuit was a collaborative effort that blended innovative special effects with a light-hearted, family-friendly narrative. Directed by John Badham, the film tells the story of a military robot, Number 5, who gains sentience after being struck by lightning. The production was notable for its advanced use of robotics and puppetry to bring the character of Number 5 to life. Special effects supervisor Syd Mead, who had previously worked on films like "Blade Runner" and "Tron," was instrumental in designing the robot, creating a character that was both mechanically believable and endearing. The use of practical effects and on-set puppetry, operated by a team of puppeteers, gave Number 5 a lifelike presence that CGI could not have achieved at the time.
Filming took place in various locations around Oregon, including Astoria and the Columbia River Gorge, which provided picturesque and diverse backdrops for the movie's action and comedic sequences. The cast, featuring Ally Sheedy as Stephanie Speck and Steve Guttenberg as Newton Crosby, brought warmth and humor to the story, further enhanced by the chemistry between the human characters and the robotic protagonist. The production faced challenges, such as ensuring the robot’s functionality and coordinating complex scenes involving the animatronics, but the crew's dedication paid off. "Short Circuit" was well-received upon its release, praised for its charming story, groundbreaking special effects, and the memorable character of Number 5, which quickly became a cultural icon of the 1980s.
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Plot Summary:
Number 5 is a military robot who gains sentience after being struck by lightning during a demonstration. Escaping from the military facility, Number 5 finds refuge with Stephanie Speck (Ally Sheedy), an animal-loving young woman who initially mistakes him for an alien. As Stephanie helps Number 5 understand the world and the concept of life, they form a bond, while the robot's creators, including Newton Crosby (Steve Guttenberg), and the military, led by the determined Captain Skroeder, are on a relentless quest to retrieve him.
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Chris had this as an ex-VHS rental back in the day and has chosen the neo-noir black comedy crime drama, Miami Blues (1990).
Miami Blues was an adaptation of Charles Willeford's novel, directed by George Armitage and produced by Jonathan Demme. The film starred Alec Baldwin as the charming yet psychopathic criminal Frederick J. Frenger Jr., Jennifer Jason Leigh as his naive love interest Susie Waggoner, and Fred Ward as the weary, veteran detective Hoke Moseley. The casting process was crucial, with Baldwin bringing a charismatic and unpredictable energy to his role, while Leigh's performance added depth and vulnerability to her character. Ward, also serving as the film's co-producer, provided a grounded and gritty counterbalance to Baldwin's manic character.
Filming took place in various locations around Miami, utilizing the city's vibrant and diverse backdrop to enhance the film's atmosphere. The production aimed to capture the seedy underbelly and the contrasting sunny exterior of Miami, which served as a character in its own right. The blend of dark humor, crime drama, and offbeat romance required careful direction to maintain the film’s tone. Armitage and Demme’s collaboration ensured that the film stayed true to Willeford's unique style while making it accessible to a broader audience. Despite its modest box office performance, "Miami Blues" received praise for its performances, particularly Baldwin’s, and has since gained a cult following for its quirky, noir-infused take on crime and romance.
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Plot Summary:
Frederick J. Frenger Jr., a recently released convict, arrives in Miami and quickly resumes his life of crime. After accidentally killing a Hare Krishna at the airport, Frenger steals, robs, and impersonates a police officer, causing chaos throughout the city. He forms a romantic relationship with Susie Waggoner while being pursued by the persistent and grizzled detective Hoke Moseley.
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Timothy's choice this week and he's gone for the 1986 thriller, The Hitcher.
Directed by Robert Harmon and written by Eric Red, the film's production began with a script that was compelling enough to draw the interest of producer Edward S. Feldman. Rutger Hauer was cast as the enigmatic and terrifying hitchhiker, John Ryder, delivering a performance that would become iconic in the thriller and horror genres. C. Thomas Howell played the young protagonist, Jim Halsey, whose cross-country drive turns into a nightmarish battle for survival. The film's casting was critical, as the chemistry and tension between Hauer and Howell carried much of the film’s suspenseful and psychological weight.
Filming took place primarily in the desolate landscapes of the American Southwest, which provided a stark and haunting backdrop that enhanced the film's eerie and isolated atmosphere. The production faced numerous logistical challenges, including shooting high-speed car chases and violent confrontations in remote locations. Despite a modest budget, the crew's resourcefulness and the director’s vision ensured that the film maintained high production values. The cinematography by John Seale captured the vast, empty highways and the sense of foreboding that permeated the film.
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Plot Summary:
Jim Halsey, a young man driving cross-country, makes a fateful decision to pick up a hitchhiker named John Ryder. Unbeknownst to Jim, Ryder is a psychopathic killer who begins a relentless and sadistic game of cat and mouse, framing Jim for his murderous acts. As Jim tries to evade both Ryder and the pursuing law enforcement, he must confront his own fears and find a way to stop the seemingly unstoppable killer.
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