Episodes

  • Blast (1997)
    Nov 24 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy are back with another episode, covering Blast (1997), directed by Albert Pyun. This Die Hard-inspired thriller stars Linden Ashby, Andrew Divoff, and Kimberly Warren, with Rutger Hauer stealing scenes in a memorable role.


    The film follows Jack Bryant (Ashby), a janitor thrust into action when terrorists take the US Olympic swim team hostage. Despite its low budget, Blast delivers solid action, a simple yet effective plot, and well-paced tension.


    We’ll discuss what worked, like the competent execution and engaging sequences, and what didn’t, such as its heavy borrowing from Die Hard. And of course, we’ll unpack Rutger Hauer’s delightfully odd performance.


    Tune in to hear our take!

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    24 mins
  • The Primevals (2023)
    Nov 17 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy are back to talk about The Primevals (2023), directed by David Allen and co-written by Randall William Cook. This long-awaited film, nearly 50 years in the making, stars Juliet Mills, Richard Joseph Paul, and Liam Rusum.

    The Primevals takes inspiration from classic Lost World adventures. It follows a group of explorers who encounter an ancient civilization and extraordinary creatures. Originally conceived in 1978, its journey to release was delayed by production challenges and the director’s passing, making it a standout in film history.

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    25 mins
  • Here for Blood (2022)
    Nov 10 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy are back this week with something a little different—a look at the 2022 horror throwback Here for Blood.


    While it's not from the 1980s, this modern homage delivers on practical effects, over-the-top storytelling, and a wild premise that’s sure to grab your attention.


    The film follows a wrestler stepping in to babysit for his girlfriend, only to face a masked cult of sex perverts and a supernatural twist. Think Evil Dead 2 meets Friday the 13th, with a low-budget charm that leans heavily on practical effects and chaotic energy.


    We break down what works, like the creative effects and the lead characters’ chemistry. But we also get into the issues, including repetitive gore and missed opportunities for bigger laughs. Despite these, Here for Blood is a fun watch for old-school horror fans.


    Tune in for the full discussion, and let us know your thoughts. Until next time, keep cruising with the Cannon Cruisers!

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    26 mins
  • Gymkata (1985)
    Nov 3 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy are back with another thrilling bonus feature, diving into the 1985 martial arts classic, Gymkata. Directed by Robert Clouse and based on Dan Tyler Moore’s novel The Terrible Game, this film offers a unique fusion of gymnastics and karate with gold medalist Kurt Thomas in the lead role.

    This week, we follow Jonathan Cabot, played by Thomas, as he enters a deadly competition in the fictional country of Parmistan. With a coup brewing and Richard Norton’s character, Zamir, plotting against him, Cabot must navigate a series of bizarre and deadly challenges to earn his freedom and a wish from the king.

    Join us as we break down the film’s wild choreography, captivating sequences, and its unexpectedly competent execution. Is Gymkata the over-the-top spectacle it’s reputed to be, or a solid action flick with a unique twist? We’ll dive into why this film has become a cult favorite and what makes it a fun watch for action fans.

    So grab your popcorn and join us as we explore the legend of Gymkata. Until next time, keep cruising with the Cannon Cruisers!

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    23 mins
  • Halloween Special - Exorcist 2: The Heretic (1977) and The Exorcist 3 (1990)
    Oct 31 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy are back with a spine-chilling Halloween special, diving into the haunting world of The Exorcist franchise. This episode, we’re tackling the infamous Exorcist II: The Heretic and the compelling Exorcist III.

    First up, we’re unraveling the chaos of Exorcist II: The Heretic. Released four years after the iconic original, this sequel takes a bizarre detour, undoing everything that made the first film a classic. Join us as we break down why this movie is considered one of the worst sequels ever, with a baffling plot, misguided direction, and a total disregard for the original’s legacy. It’s a cinematic journey that left us more confused than possessed.

    Then, we switch gears to Exorcist III, a film that redeems the series with a genuine return to form. Directed by William Peter Blatty and based on his novel Legion, this installment brings back the suspense and chills, with standout performances by George C. Scott and Brad Dourif. We’ll discuss how Exorcist III builds on the original, blending horror with psychological thriller elements in a way that honors the franchise’s roots.

    So light a candle, grab some candy, and join us for a Halloween special exploring the highs and lows of this iconic horror series. Happy Halloween from the Cannon Cruisers!

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    49 mins
  • The Sandlot (1993)
    Oct 27 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy here, wrapping up our epic summer sports special with a nostalgic classic, The Sandlot from 1993.

    Join us as we dive into this timeless coming-of-age story, following Scotty Smalls and his neighborhood friends as they bond over baseball. Directed by David Mickey Evans, The Sandlot captures the essence of growing up, making friends, and the simple joy of a game on a sandlot. We’ll explore why this movie resonates with all ages and how it became a beloved classic.

    From the legendary dog chase to unforgettable one-liners, The Sandlot is more than a sports movie—it’s a celebration of youth and friendship. So grab your glove and join us for a trip back to the summer of 1962 as we close out our sports special. This is one film that truly stands the test of time!

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    24 mins
  • Days of Thunder (1990)
    Oct 20 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy here, back with another exciting episode in our summer sports special. This week, we’re diving into the high-speed world of the 1990 racing film, Days of Thunder.

    Directed by Tony Scott, the film stars Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, and Robert Duvall. Despite mixed reviews at first, it became a staple in sports cinema. Join us as we break down the film’s direction, performances, thrilling NASCAR scenes, and its lasting impact. Buckle up for a ride through Days of Thunder!

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    27 mins
  • The Best of the Best (1989)
    Oct 13 2024

    Hey Cannon Cruisers fans! JD and Randy here. This week, we’re diving into the 1989 American martial arts film, The Best of the Best.


    Directed by Bob Radler and featuring a star-studded cast including Philip Rhee, Eric Roberts, James Earl Jones, Sally Kirkland, Simon Rhee, and Chris Penn, this martial arts epic stands out from the typical films we cover. Unlike the usual revenge-driven narratives, The Best of the Best focuses on true competition, showcasing a team of five martial artists representing the United States in a global tournament against the formidable Korean team.


    Join us as we discuss the film's unique take on martial arts tournaments, emphasizing teamwork over individual prowess. We'll delve into the film's exploration of moral conflicts, the power of the human spirit, and the triumph over adversity. Despite its straightforward plot, the film's depth comes from its character-driven storytelling and the unexpected, yet satisfying, resolution.


    We’ll also touch on the film's legacy as a sports movie, its surprising blend of traditional sports dynamics with martial arts, and how it paved the way for future films in the genre. So gear up and join us as we explore the thrilling world of The Best of the Best!

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    22 mins