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Comedy
TV & Film
Dan Wiener & Jon Richardson
Brothers/cinephiles Dan and Jon explore Hollywood’s trend of reviving franchises with long-awaited sequels, prequels, spin-offs, remakes, and/or reboots. On each episode, they talk through a film or franchise and imagine how it could be revisited. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Head (1968)
The same year their family television show was taken off the year, The Monkees released a film that tanked in the theaters, but has found a cult following for all the right reasons. On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon draw parallels for the Monkees releasing Head to Young Sheldon releasing a statement about King Jong-Un.Next episode: The Exorcist (1973) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:12:0519/05/2020
Kindergarten Cop (1990)
Ivan Reitman’s 1990 classic Kindergarten Cop may have gotten a straight-to-VOD sequel, but that doesn’t mean that Dan & Jon aren’t going to come up with some new fresh ways to revisit this Arnold Schwarzenegger gem.Big thanks to Millie De Chirico for suggesting this masterpiece.Next episode: Head (1968) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:3112/05/2020
The Cutting Edge (1992)
Dan and Jon are joined by Millie De Chirico. Don’t be fooled by Millie’s clout as Programming Manager for Turner Classic Movies and Programmer for TCM Underground - she’s here to talk about figure skating classic, The Cutting Edge. This movie defies all of the odds and stands the test of time as possibly the best pairs figure skating film, next to its 2007 spiritual parody, Blades of Glory.And the month of May features films curated by Millie! Next episode: Kindergarten Cop (1990)Follow Millie on social media!Twitter: @MillieDiChiricoInstagram: @Debbie_Country Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:16:1405/05/2020
Ishtar (1987)
Dan and Jon are joined by writer, critic, and Elaine May-enthusiast, Carrie Courogen to celebrate the classically misunderstood Ishtar. Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty get into some dangerous business as Chuck Clarke and Lyle Rogers - two wannabe musicians who find themselves in a mixup with the CIA and a group of radical communists who want to overthrow a tyrant. Dan, Jon, and Carrie talk about how this movie is a hidden gem and how it became a dark mark on the career of writer/director, Elaine May.Follow us on Instagram at @RuinedChildhoodsPodFollow Carrie on Twitter - @CarrieCourogenFollow Carrie on Instagram - @CarrieCourogenNext Episode: The Cutting Edge (1992) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
59:3828/04/2020
The Long Goodbye (1973)
It's 1973 in Los Angeles, California. Private Investigator, Philip Marlow is trying to find out who killed his friend and find his cat. 47 years later, two ding-a-lings with microphones and an internet connection try to find a way to bring back Marlow in a way that's relevant to a modern-day audience.Next episode: Ishtar (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:18:5921/04/2020
Major League (1989)
On this episode, Dan and Jon take it back to 1989 and then 1994 to a lesser extent, and then 1998 to an even lesser extent to go over the Major League series. Beyond that, they go over their own personal experiences with baseball fandom, including Dan’s brief stint as a Steve Garvey 1987 Donruss baseball card impersonator. But most importantly, Dan and Jon celebrate the genius of Bob Uecker.Next episode: The Long Goodbye (1973) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:21:2014/04/2020
Seconds (1966)
When Hollywood’s rom-com leading man Rock Hudson wanted to take on an acting challenge that would make people take him seriously as an actor, he paired up with The Manchurian Candidate director John Frankenheimer and made Seconds, about a middle-aged man who chooses to be “rebooted” as a younger man with a different life. The film was booed right out of Cannes and caused audience members to become physically ill, but has since become a cult classic that is now considered brilliantly prescient in its ideas about identity and society’s impact on how we live our lives.Next episode: Major League (1989) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
54:5307/04/2020
The Monster Squad (1987)
Few movies have gone from being box office failures to beloved classics to the extent that The Monster Squad has over the last 30 years. Dan and Jon may not have seen it in the theater (though Dan remembers seeing the poster), but like others, they’ve become passionate fans after repeated viewings on HBO and VHS. Sequels and remakes have always been rumored, but have yet to come to fruition. Join Dan and Jon as they discuss the possibilities and potential in multiple approaches to reviving this property. Also: Jon shares how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected his work as the Media Producer at the Portland Art Museum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:2924/03/2020
Tootsie (1982)
Whether you love it or hate it, Tootsie is an iconic film depicting the struggles of both a temperamental male actor and women in the workplace. Is there a place for Dorothy Michaels in the future of cinema? Is her story really over? Dan & Jon lay out the history of the film and their ideas for a possible resurrection of the property.Next episode: The Monster Squad (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:25:1417/03/2020
What Women Want (2000)
What Women Want (2000)What are the potentials and pitfalls of a movie in which a misogynistic advertising executive gains the power to hear women’s thoughts? Dan and Jon brave the waters of Mel Gibson’s filmography to revisit the Nancy Meyers comedy, which featured Gibson in his pre-drunk racist/sexist breakdown days playing Nick Marshall, the aforementioned ad exec. In doing so, they debate the viability of the concept and potential variations that could be successful today, including the 2019 remake, What Men Want.Next Episode: Tootsie (1982) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:01:0310/03/2020
Cocoon (1985)
Dan & Jon break into a nearby pool and dive into 1985’s Cocoon. Ron Howard’s sci-fi comedy classic is a prime example of an 80s alien movie that totally holds up, but Dan and Jon imagine what it might be like with a life in the 21st century.Next episode: What Women Want (2000) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:05:2203/03/2020
Pee-wee Herman (1980 - )
Special Guest: SCOTT WIENEROn this episode, Dan and Jon are in Austin, Texas with their brother Scott to talk about the character that shaped their lives (as well as many others), Pee-wee Herman (Paul Reubens). From Pee-wee’s Big Adventure to Pee-wee’s Playhouse to Big Top Pee-wee to Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, just about everything is covered - including his appearances in Cheech and Chong’s Next Movie and Back to the Beach.Special thanks to French Fry Phil for the clip that you hear at the top of the show. Please remember to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts and tell your friends!Next episode: Cocoon (1985) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:34:2825/02/2020
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
Mickey Mouse & Bugs Bunny? Daffy Duck & Donald Duck? Eddie Valiant & Roger Rabbit?! On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan & Jon discuss the 1988 classic animation-meets-live-action romp, Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Have there been attempts to resurrect the property in the past? Are there future plans? Dan and Jon give an overview and share their ideas on expanding the Roger Rabbitverse.Next episode: Pee-wee Herman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
56:5717/02/2020
Indiana Jones (1981 - )
No time for love, Starfighters! On this episode, Dan & Jon give an overview of the ongoing legacy of Indiana Jones and give their ideas on ways the franchise can move forward in a way that won’t ruin any childhoods.Next episode: Who Framed Roger RabbitA Week of Kindness and the Last Crusade Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:32:4011/02/2020
Easy Rider (1969)
Dan & Jon hit the road and explore this true classic in counter-culture cinema. But first, Dan goes over some news from upcoming sequels/remakes.Next episode: The world of Indiana Jones Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:16:2804/02/2020
The Rocketeer (1991)
Dan & Jon soar through their first year of Ruined Childhoods like Cliff Secord (AKA The Rocketeer) soars over Hollywoodland, California. They also ruminate on their recent experiences seeing Bad Boys for Life and Ghostbusters with orchestral accompaniment.Next episode: Easy Rider (1969) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:21:2428/01/2020
Tremors (1990)
Dan and Jon dig in to one of the more unlikely franchises in cinema, which began with the release of the original Tremors 30 years ago this month, and has since spawned sequels, a prequel, and two (failed) TV series. After all the different directions in which this franchise has already gone, is there anything they could possibly suggest that hasn’t already been tried? Listen in and see what they have in mind for the future of the Graboids, Shriekers, Assblasters, and other members of the subterranean species.Also: Dan and Jon share their takes on the Academy Award nominations for the first 34 minutes.Next episode: We celebrate one year of RUINED CHILDHOODS with The Rocketeer (1991) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:08:0921/01/2020
School Ties (1992)
School Ties might not be a classic movie for most, but it sure is for Dan & Jon. They share their thoughts and memories about this Brendan Fraser drama as they celebrate the early careers of Brendan, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and many other future stars.COWARDS!!!!!Next Episode: Tremors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:10:5714/01/2020
Jekyll & Hyde (1886 - ?)
When Robert Louis Stevenson wrote The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, he knew that in 2020, two ding-a-lings would celebrate its legacy and discuss ideas to further its life on something called a podcast. They talk about the films, tv movies, spoofs, stage productions, variations, and even theme restaurants based on the original classic texts.Oh, and DAN’S BLOG!Next episode: School Ties (1992) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:21:1907/01/2020
My Blue Heaven (1990)
You wanna hear some Goodfellas? Wait until you hear Dan & Jon gab about My Blue Heaven! Before they share their ideas about a new life after the movie, Dan recalls the first time they both saw the film.Next Episode: Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:22:1431/12/2019
The Warriors (1979)
The Warriors (1979)“Come out to play-ay” with Dan, Jon, and The Warriors! Journey with them from the north Bronx to Coney Island as they follow The Warriors’ odyssey through a quasi-futuristic New York City even grittier than the actual NYC of the late 1970’s, which was already pretty darn gritty. Also: the Ruined Childhoods “End of the Decade” survey; new trailers for Ghostbusters: Afterlife and the Top Gun franchise.*NOTE: Dan incorrectly credits The Romantics with writing “I Don’t Want To Lose Your Love Tonight” by The OutfieldNext Episode: My Blue Heaven (1990) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:0221/12/2019
The Graduate (1967)
The Graduate (1967)For this episode, Dan and Jon revisit a classic, and they have a lot to say about it. While providing background about the film and the novel on which it was based, they examine how the property has been referenced and resurrected throughout time, from the 2002 Broadway adaptation (which Dan and Jon saw during its run) to the Brad Pitt/Edward Norton commentary track on the Fight Club DVD. Also: High praise for some recent theatrical releases, including Parasite and Frozen II.Next episode: The Warriors (1979) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:12:0210/12/2019
The Last Boy Scout (1991)
This week, Dan and Jon venture back into the neo-noir, Christmastime action-comedy world of Shane Black. This time, it’s director Tony Scott pairing up Bruce Willis (fresh off the failure of Hudson Hawk) and Damon Wayans (hot off the success of In Living Color) to take on crime and corruption in the NFL. The movie not only boasts one of Halle Berry’s earliest film roles, but also shares several notable connections to the following year’s Lorenzo’s Oil.Also: Dan reminisces about his Billy Blanks Tae-Bo workouts and shares his reservations regarding the new Mrs. Doubtfire musical.Next episode: The Graduate (1967) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
59:1503/12/2019
The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)
Buckle up, motherf#ckers! On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Jon and Dan debate the afterlife for The Long Kiss Goodnight. Does Renny Harlin have a chance for a comeback? Listen and find out what Dan & Jon think!Next episode: The Last Boy Scout Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:22:3226/11/2019
Midnight Run (1988)
Midnight Run (1988)On this, the monumental 40th episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon step back into the career of filmmaker Martin Brest, this time to examine the 1988 action-comedy Midnight Run. Join them as they revisit the plot and some of the many highlights of the film as they determine what potential there is (if any) for sequels, prequels, remakes, or reboots. Also, Dan and Jon share their reviews of Dolemite is My Name, Dan shares some reflections following the closing of his high school production of A Few Good Men, and Jon challenges him to name which of the films covered in episodes 1-39 he would potentially adapt for the high school stage.Next Episode: The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
53:2919/11/2019
Beverly Hills Cop (1984 - ?)
What happens when a cop from Detroit with a loose interpretation of the rules has to play nice with the by-the-book Beverly Hills Police Department? Dan and Jon not only tell you exactly what happens, but they also weigh in on what could happen in the future.Next episode: Midnight Run (1988) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:35:1012/11/2019
Demolition Man (1993)
Join Dan and Jon as they look back at the early-90’s Stallone/Snipes action flick Demolition Man and debate how well it has aged in the last 26 years. Jon shares his qualms with the movie, including its title, and Dan speculates as to why he’s not as troubled by these flaws. Also, Dan shares his reactions to the first episode of HBO’s Watchmen series (after dealing with some lozenge-related audio issues).Next Episode: Beverly Hills Cop (1984, 1987, 1994) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:06:5105/11/2019
A Few Good Men ( 1992)
Tom Cruise Month comes to a close with one of his most iconic films from the 90s — A Few Good Men. Dan talks about his connections with this property and Jon envisions a new life for military courtroom dramas. Next episode: Demolition Man Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:27:0629/10/2019
Legend (1985)
We’re well into Tom Cruise Month (because we decided it’s Tom Cruise Month) and Dan & Jon are talking about the 1985 cult classic, Legend. Does this fantasy flop deserve to see the light of day or does it remain in the darkness?Next episode: A Few Good Men Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
59:4122/10/2019
Risky Business (1983)
TOM CRUISE MONTH CONTINUES! On this episode, Dan and Jon try their hardest to come up with a way to bring Risky Business into the modern age, but not before checking in on some news that sends Dan into a Little Shop of Horrors spiral.Next episode: Legend (1985) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:01:0215/10/2019
Rain Man (1988)
On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, it’s truly a tale of two brothers. Dan and Jon talk about America’s OTHER favorite set of siblings, Charlie and Raymond AKA the boys of Rain Man. Dan and Jon also talk about their favorite Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman movies & performances. Oh, and don’t worry — they also parallel Rain Man with Twins.Next episode: Risky Business (1983) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:06:1708/10/2019
The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride (1987)Journey back to 1987 Chicago, where a sick young boy is unexpectedly enchanted by a fairy tale read to him by his grandfather… and 2019 Seattle and Portland, where Dan and Jon revisited this beloved classic amid new rumors of a remake, and examine what makes this film so special to people. Dan and Jon discuss their qualms with the film, while Dan somehow connects its plot to George W. Bush and 9/11. Jon also shares his ideas for ways to expand the Princess Bride universe while advocating for more accurate cultural representation in casting.Next episode: Rain Man (1988) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:10:5901/10/2019
Cabaret (1972)
For this episode, Dan and Jon enjoyed their very first viewings of Bob Fosse’s Academy Award-winning film of the musical Cabaret. Dan shares his memories of the 1998 Broadway revival, and Jon proposes some surprising ideas for a remake.Next week: The Princess Bride (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
58:2624/09/2019
Innerspace (1987)
This week’s pod centers around another pod - the miniaturization pod of Joe Dante’s Innerspace. Dan reminisces about how the VHS release of Innerspace changed his world, and Jon leads a nostalgic tribute to the now-closed Cranford Theater. Did they deem Innerspace worthy of a sequel, prequel, remake, or reboot? Listen to find out…Next episode: Cabaret (1972) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:04:2217/09/2019
Back to School (1986)
Dan and Jon are back to school - seriously! This episode is recorded in a Seattle High School’s actual classroom, and they’re there to talk about Back to School!RIP Rialto TheaterNext episode: Innerspace (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55:1910/09/2019
Transylvania 6-5000 (1985)
Before a flash round of 6 Degrees of Lorenzo’s Oil, Dan and Jon speak fondly of the 1985 comedy, Transylvania 6-5000. This Jeff Goldblum/Ed Begley, Jr. flop has a huge cast, both figuratively and literally, and caught the attention of childhood-Jon and Dan, so naturally they have to talk about it on a dang podcast!Next episode: Back to School Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:09:3203/09/2019
Mad Max (1979 - )
What started as a small movie made by an Australian ER doctor has since become an incredible franchise that, unlike civilization in these films, has no plans of going away. Dan and Jon explore the legacy of Mad Max and its sequels.BONUS: Jon has a chat with Faye Murman, the director of the upcoming feature, Humungus: A Documentary, the focuses on extreme Mad Max fandom.Next episode: Transylvania 6-5000 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:30:0327/08/2019
Soapdish (1991)
On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon are joined by Jon’s wife, Laura, who proves that it’s possible to forget everything about movies once a microphone is in front of you. Nevertheless, they talk about the 1991 cult classic, Soapdish. They touch upon news in the Die Hard world and more info on the Coming to America sequel, Coming 2 America.Next episode: Mad Max (1979 - ) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:08:0920/08/2019
The Crow (1994)
On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon discuss the resurrection of The Crow series of films/graphic novels, but not before going over the latest Addams Family trailer and Disney+ reboots [insert Kevin McCallister scream-face here].Next episode: Soapdish Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:00:3513/08/2019
Summer Rental (1985)
Summer Rental (1985)On this episode, Dan and Jon revisit Carl Reiner’s other “Summer” movie from the 80’s, Summer Rental, and reminisce about their own experiences with family summer vacations and movies. Also: more info about Rambo: Last Blood and Stallone’s plans for a new installment of the Rocky series.Next episode: The Crow (1994) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:05:2906/08/2019
Road House (1989)
Dan and Jon go “crazy for Swayze” as they discuss the cult classic, Road House. Has the movie stood the test of time, and do they see any potential for sequels, prequels, remakes, or reboots? Also discussed are thoughts on the newest Shaft installment, casting news regarding Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid and the untitled Bond 25, new trailers for Jay & Silent Bob Reboot, Top Gun: Maverick, and The King’s Man. Oh, and they also talk a lot about famed monster truck, Bigfoot.Next episode: Summer Rental (1985) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:02:4530/07/2019
Summer School (1987)
It’s summertime and class is in session! On this episode, Dan and Jon join Mr. Shoop and the gang in Summer School. Next episode: Road House Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:12:0216/07/2019
The Cannonball Run (1981-1989)
The Cannonball Run (1981)/Cannonball Run II (1984)/Speed Zone (1989)Strap in and buckle up with Dan, Jon, Burt, Dom, Farrah, Dean, Sammy, Shirley, Brooke, and all of the other 70’s and 80’s celebrities who joined the party for the Cannonball Run series. Does Cannonball Run have a place in 2019’s cinema? Dan and Jon discuss this question and others as they assess the more dated aspects of the series while speculating about how it could be successful in today’s world. Also: news of a new addition to the Matrix franchise, and Bill & Ted Face the Music announces a release date.Next episode: Summer School (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:05:5825/06/2019
Dick Tracy (1990)
As comic book heroes continue to be adapted and re-adapted for film, one has remained untouched for nearly 30 years. Dan and Jon reminisce about first impressions of Warren Beatty’s passion project, Dick Tracy, and add their more recent takes on its style, plot, and casting. In the process, they share their thoughts on how could be brought back to the silver screen. Also, first impressions of the trailer for the upcoming sequel to The Shining, Doctor Sleep.Next episode: The Cannonball RunNext June Squibb Recast: The Age of Innocence Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:07:3618/06/2019
City Slickers (1991 & 1994)
In their second celebration of June releases, Dan and Jon saddle up and ride with the City Slickers. They review what made the 1991 original so special, and what they feel went awry with City Slickers II: The Legend of Curly’s Gold. Also, Dan shares his deep admiration for the screenwriting team of Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel, while Jon continues to express his deep admiration for Michael Shannon. Plus, “June Squibb Month” continues as the brothers re-cast principal roles in 1997’s In & Out.Next episode: Dick Tracy (1990)Next “June Squibb” re-cast: Meet Joe Black (1998) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:30:5111/06/2019
Speed (1994 & 1997)
In honor of major June releases, Dan and Jon discuss Speed (1994) and Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997). And in honor of a month of recasting June Squibb movies, they talk about who might replace Al Pacino and Chris O’Donnell in Scent of a Woman (1992).ValKilmer.comNext episode: City SlickersNext recast: In & Out Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:08:1404/06/2019
Thunderball (1965)
In the final installment of “May the Fourth be with You”, Dan and Jon go back to the fourth installment of the James Bond franchise, Thunderball. They debate the ethics of Bond’s womanizing, whether “for Queen and country” or otherwise, and discuss the impact of Thunderball and its 1983 remake, Never Say Never Again, on the Johnny English and Austin Powers films. Also: Dan and Jon express their cautious optimism around the Terminator: Dark Fate teaser and assess Sylvester Stallone’s recent comments about continuing the Rocky franchise.Next episode: SpeedNext episode’s recast: Scent of a Woman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:24:2528/05/2019
Rocky IV (1985)
Continuing on with their “May the Fourth be With You” theme, Jon and Dan explore the cultural time capsule and boxing epic that is 1985’s Rocky IV, as well as its parallels to 2018’s Creed II.Next: Thunderball (1965) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:01:3921/05/2019
Live Free or Die Hard (2007)
Yippee kai-yay, melon farmers! For this “May the Fourth be With You” installment of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon explore the expectation-exceeding Live Free or Die Hard, its connections to and deviations from the previous films in the series, and ways it could tie into future installments.Next Episode: Rocky IV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:18:1214/05/2019
Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol (1987)
Many people overlook Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol, but Dan and Jon look at it for exactly what it is — it’s a fun collection of gags that culminates in the ONLY hot air balloon chase scene in cinematic history. It’s also the first installment of MAY THE 4th BE WITH YOU - the Ruined Childhoods celebration of the 4th installments in movie franchises.Next episode: Live Free or Die Hard Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:16:2809/05/2019