• Eastside Theatre Guild: Waxwork(s)
    Nov 1 2024

    Ever wondered what happens when horror and humor collide in the most chaotic way? For our last Halloween installment we'll take you on a journey through the Waxwork film series, a mix of supernatural oddities and comedic blunders. We dive into the eccentric world of these cult classics, where the allure is as strange as the plot twists themselves. From surreal courtroom drama to slapstick horror, this episode examines how these movies manage to be both entertaining and bewildering, offering up unintentional laughs and perplexing storylines.

    The Waxwork films try to balance horror with comedy, often stumbling hilariously along the way. We critique the peculiar character dynamics, bizarre narrative choices, and a third act that spirals into pure madness. With Zach Galligan's unusual morning routine and David Warner's enigmatic waxwork proprietor, these films serve as a patchwork of ambitious ideas, albeit with a coherence that's often lost in translation. Whether it’s Galligan and Sarah navigating eerie waxwork scenarios or unexpected cameos like Bruce Campbell adding slapstick humor, there's never a dull moment in this cinematic fever dream.

    Join us as we embrace the absurdity and humor of these films, celebrating their quirks and flaws. From the unexpected procedural elements to the chaotic mashup of horror tropes, the Waxwork series is a rollercoaster of bizarre plot elements and pop culture references. Despite their shortcomings, these films are an unintentional comedy goldmine, and we can't wait for you to enjoy our lighthearted critique of these cinematic oddities. If you're someone who delights in the bizarre and potentially terrible, these movies are definitely worth a watch. Be sure to like, share, and subscribe, and let us know your thoughts on this wild ride!

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    1 hr and 46 mins
  • Harvest: The True Story of Alien Abduction
    Oct 29 2024

    Ever wonder what would happen if Sylvester Stallone joined forces with a USB hub spider invasion? Our latest episode kicks off with a rollicking chat filled with chaotic banter and bizarre celebrity scenarios. Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we poke fun at nostalgic oddities like "Suburban Commando" and "Mr. Nanny," while also dissecting the spooky and strange claims from GL Davies' "Harvest: The True Story of Alien Abduction." It's a delightful blend of pop culture, nostalgia, and the paranormal that promises to entertain and make you chuckle.

    From there, things take a turn for the eerie as we explore the blurred lines between dreams and reality. We unravel the mysterious tale of a woman haunted by otherworldly entities, guiding her through unsettling dreamscapes and sleep paralysis episodes featuring jellyfish-like creatures. Her chilling encounters with humanoid figures and ominous owls will leave you pondering the limits of imagination and the supernatural. This narrative paints a captivating yet haunting picture of terror and wonder that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    Finally, we tackle the complexities of alien encounters and the importance of balancing skepticism with empathy. By pondering theories like extra-dimensionality and the ultra-terrestrial hypothesis, we invite listeners to approach these mysterious phenomena with an open mind. We remind everyone of humanity's past achievements, encouraging curiosity about the possibilities of alien visitation. As we wrap up, we share a heartfelt farewell, urging our audience to embrace the magic of life and the mysteries of our world. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, there's something in this episode to capture your imagination.

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    53 mins
  • Faces of Death
    Oct 15 2024

    Our conversation takes a twist as we nostalgically wander through the chaotic yet endearing Hollywood escapades of the Lawrence brothers, especially our favorite, Joey Lawrence. We then transport you back to the golden era of video rentals and late-night TV, reminiscing about Kansas City's own quirky used car dealer and horror movie connoisseur, Ray Stevens, who added his unique charm to our spooky-themed adventure.

    As we stroll through the aisles of memory, we dive into the fascinating world of iconic VHS covers that once sparked our imaginations. Remember the striking imagery of "Road Games" or the chilling allure of "Fright Night"? We do too, and we've got stories to share about how these visuals led us into a realm of curiosity and intrigue. Of course, we couldn't resist exploring the allure of infamous titles like "Pink Flamingos" and the controversial "Faces of Death," whose provocative covers blurred the lines between fact and fiction, leaving a lasting impact on the horror genre and our youthful minds.

    Wrapping up this whimsical journey, we reflect on the broader cultural impact of controversial films and their role in shaping the horror landscape. Despite their taboo nature, these films paved the way for genres like found footage horror, with "The Blair Witch Project" drawing inspiration from their daring audacity. As we muse about embracing individual tastes and the etiquette of supporting local businesses, we invite you to chuckle, reminisce, and perhaps even learn a thing or two about the quirks of pop culture nostalgia. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and join us on this playful ride through the intersection of geek rock, VHS treasures, and the evolution of horror. Godspeed, fair Wizards!

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    38 mins
  • Horror Rewind: Tales from the Dark Side
    Oct 8 2024

    What if you could step back into the 1980s and wander through the campy, eerie world of horror television? Join us for a nostalgic trip as we unravel the origins and creative genius behind the classic anthology series "Tales from the Dark Side." With roots linked to the iconic 1982 film "Creepshow" and the visionary George Romero, this series ingeniously blends humor, horror, and the supernatural. We recount the unforgettable premiere episode, "Trick or Treat," where a capitalist antihero meets a spooky fate, and reflect on Romero's tenacity in bringing his chilling vision to life despite legal hurdles.

    Our conversation shifts to spotlight standout episodes like "Anniversary Dinner" and "Inside the Closet," showcasing the talents of Tom Savini and Fritz Weaver. Journey into the heart of these episodes, where an albino ghoulie lurks to the haunting sounds of a theremin, evoking a sense of thrilling nostalgia. We also explore the series' cultural impact, especially through its adaptations of works by renowned authors like Harlan Ellison, Clive Barker, and Stephen King, adding layers of intrigue to an already rich tapestry of storytelling. There's even room for a laugh as we connect these eerie tales to the world of musical theater.

    Anthology series have evolved, but their charm remains timeless. We draw comparisons to modern successors like "The Twilight Zone" and "Black Mirror," examining the puzzle-like nature of their narratives. As we reminisce about the original "Tales from the Dark Side," we ponder its enduring appeal amidst today's streaming challenges. We wrap up our episode with a candid discussion on podcasting ethics, underscoring the value of genuine research and active listener engagement. With a sprinkle of humor, we remind our audience to support local businesses and leave no trace behind, making this episode a delightful blend of entertainment and insightful discourse.

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    28 mins
  • Comic Book Film History 4: Global
    Oct 8 2024

    What if a "space ghost Dracula" could bring comics to life? We're tackling this and more as we dive into the vibrant world of comics in England, exploring its storied past and cultural significance. We'll take you on a rollercoaster of witty banter, touching on everything from Danzig's fictional elemental powers to the potential of podcasts achieving global acclaim. Join us as we navigate the fascinating journey from America and Japan to the heart of British comic history, with a nod to Europe's rich contributions and the legendary Mars Ravelo of the Philippines.

    From the iconic pages of the Beano and the Dandy to the silver screen adaptations of early British comics, we've got it all covered. Discover how British comics, initially a staple of children's entertainment, evolved into something more profound. We'll compare the American and British experiences and trace the lineage of comic characters back to the 19th century. Learn about the trials and triumphs of translating British comic narratives into film, with a spotlight on characters like Ally Sloper and cinematic adaptations like "The Adventures of Jane."

    Venture beyond the UK as we explore the global impact of British comic creators, including films inspired by 2000 AD's "Judge Dredd." From lesser-known adaptations to famous European comic icons like Asterix, Obelix, and Tintin, we celebrate the enduring legacy of comic creators worldwide. Our journey concludes in Southeast Asia, where Mars Ravelo's creations like Darna and Captain Barbell have left an indelible mark on Filipino cinema. Tune in for a lively discussion that promises to broaden your understanding of the global comic scene and its cinematic transformations.

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    43 mins
  • Comic Books in Film Part 2
    Sep 8 2024

    Get ready to rethink everything you knew about comic book movies. They're not a recent phenomenon! Join us as we explore the rich history of comics in film, starting from the late 1880s up to the groundbreaking release of "Batman" in 1989. Discover how early comic book adaptations shaped pop culture long before today's blockbuster hits and how the infamous "Seduction of the Innocent" almost derailed the entire industry.

    Ever heard of Golden Bat, the superhero who predates Superman and Batman? We'll take you on a journey through forgotten classics like the 1950 tokusatsu film and other early comic book adaptations, recounting personal anecdotes and cultural impacts. We also delve into the significant influence of Osamu Tezuka, the father of modern manga, and the uncanny parallels between his work and Disney’s "The Lion King." Enjoy a nostalgic trip through characters like Prince Valiant, Sheena, Queen of the Jungle, and Dennis the Menace, as we discuss their evolution from comic strips to the silver screen.

    Jumping into the 60s and beyond, we analyze iconic TV shows and movies like the Green Hornet, "Barbarella," and "Modesty Blaise." We also reflect on the enduring legacy of the Incredible Hulk, Little Orphan Annie, Swamp Thing, and Conan the Barbarian. Through all this, we stress the importance of supporting your local comic shops and engaging with the comic book community. From humorous insights to critical reflections, this episode promises a captivating discussion on the enduring influence of comic books in film and pop culture.

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    48 mins
  • The Bell Riots: A Dispatch Ajax/Memory Gamma Special Report
    Aug 31 2024

    In January of 1995, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine produced an epic two-episode arc that would later come to define the series and re-enforce Star Trek's relevance in the Pop Culture landscape.
    'Past Tense' is a classic Trek Tale whose predictions of our modern day trials and tribulations will likely shock and ultimately terrify you...like good Science Fiction should.

    The events in the story take place between August 30th and September 2nd, 2024. That right there should at least warrant attention. The accuracy of the way it portrays America's decline into dystopia should shake you to your core.

    But Star Trek proves that the cynical part is the easy part. What makes Trek unique is its willingness to admit the nature and even inevitability of craven Human foibles, BUT also the courage to believe in its ability to rise above its most basic of instincts in order to do better. To get things right.

    'Past Tense' does this exceptionally well, and on top that eerily represents the power of Science Fiction to predict exactly where we are.

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    17 mins
  • War Rocket Shorts: Eric Banasance
    Aug 24 2024

    Prepare to laugh and learn as we journey through the whimsical world of timing and voice impressions, featuring the extraordinary countdown styles of Jeff Goldblum, Christopher Walken, and William Shatner. Ever wondered how color perception varies or why audio peaks can be so amusing? We’ve got you covered with hilarious anecdotes and insightful discussions, including a deep dive into the curious case of cargo cult tribes and their unique linguistic quirks. Plus, we dissect the cinematic brilliance of Eric Bana’s performances, with a spotlight on his role as Nero in the Star Trek universe, unearthing the complexities of film character development that often go unnoticed.

    Enter the futuristic realm of Sam Worthington’s filmography, with a focus on his intriguing role in the Netflix original sci-fi movie "The Titan." Imagine a world where genetic evolution meets space exploration, and you’ll get a taste of what this fascinating yet underrated film offers. We break down key plot points, revealing the mysterious transformation of characters into post-human forms, and sprinkle in our thoughts on why this "whatever" movie might just be worth your time. Tune in for a blend of humor, cinematic analysis, and thought-provoking discussions that promise to keep you entertained from start to finish.

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    10 mins