Dolls! Dolls! Dolls!

We're climbing Mount Everest today...the Mount Everest of Camp, that is...to reach our ultimate destination, the "Valley of the Dolls" (1967). 

 In Part One of our two-part "Doll-apalooza", we dive headfirst into "Valley of the Dolls" to explore how a record-shattering novel morphed into a glossy, chaotic cult classic that refuses to fade. From Travilla’s couture and 60s hair architecture to the film’s stubborn 1940s morality, we map the exact fault lines where glamour cracks into melodrama—and why that crack is what keeps fans coming back.

We pull apart the legendary casting carousel, a virtual murderous row of "wanna-bes", "what-ifs" and "if-onlys", to land on the our final triumvirate: Barbara Parkins, Sharon Tate and Patty Duke. Then there’s the ultimate Hollywood what-if: Judy Garland as Helen Lawson, acting opposite a character inspired by herself, before being dismissed and replaced by Susan Hayward. Layer in the book’s real-world inspirations—Judy, Ethel Merman, Marilyn Monroe, Carol Landis—and the film becomes a hall of mirrors where gossip, myth, and performance blur.

We also examine the structural problems that make the movie so watchable: a two-decade story squeezed into a breathless sprint, montages standing in for struggle, and addiction rendered as instant meltdown. Yet the music rescues memory; André and Dory Previn’s title theme, immortalized by Dionne Warwick, laces through pop culture and keeps the film’s ache alive. 

The men are mannequins, the women are meteors, and somewhere between pills and punchlines the film finds accidental truth about fame, control, and the cost of being marketable. So, press play to hear why this "beloved piece of…” well, you know—continues to be relevant to this day, over 50 years after its debut. 

And please you enjoy the show, follow, share with a movie-loving friend, and leave a quick review telling us your favorite "Valley of the Dolls" moment.

Episode Artwork by the incomparable Glen Hanson @instaglenhanson

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

We interrupt our scheduled programs for a special milestone: one million views on Tony's "Wired" interview on YouTube!  This occasion opened the door for a bigger conversation, so we pulled up a chair and dug in.  

Brad asks some questions that blew past the YouTube cut: what we actually know about Natalie Wood’s final night, why rumor loves tidy villains, and how to honor a legacy without letting tragedy swallow it whole.  From there, we build a clear, no-filler Elizabeth Taylor film watch list, take a deeper dive into Hollywood's gay history, and we revisit the story of Loretta Young and Clark Gable's secret love child and the lengths she took to protect her image, showing what the Production Code demanded—and what it broke. 

We also take the opportunity to give much overdue shout-outs to some of the kind people who took the time to rate and review us, and give us their thoughts on which classic we should tackle next. 

So, hit play for a candid, story-driven tour through Old Hollywood facts, modern myths, and the business decisions that still shape what we see. If you learned something or built a new watchlist, share this episode with a friend, follow the show, and leave a review. 

And don't forget to drop a quarter in the "swear jar"!! (If you know, you know.)

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

To listen to "Origins: Sex and the City"  hosted by James Andrew Miller got to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/origins-with-james-andrew-miller/id1266445999?i=1000423827162

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

"Grand Hotel...people come, people go. Nothing ever happens."

With all due respect Lewis Stone, the actor who utters these immortal lines in this MGM classic, we couldn't disagree more!  “Grand Hotel” (1932), stands as one of the most significant achievements in early Hollywood cinema, not only for its revolutionary approach to casting but also for its sophisticated storytelling and visual innovation. 

"More stars than there are in the heavens" was MGM's famous tagline from the 1930s, and this Best Picture Oscar winner more than proves the point. Released during the darkest year of the Great Depression, this MGM masterpiece starred Greta Garbo, John Barrymore, Lionel Barrymore, Joan Crawford, and Wallace Beery, and created the template for what we now recognize as the "all-star cast" film – a bold and innovative concept at the time that continues to influence filmmaking nearly a century later.

 So, join us as we check into an era where decadence, debauchery, and deadly ambition can all be served up with an order of room service... all happening at a magical place called Hollywood and "Grand Hotel".

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

The fictional St. Eligius Hospital (nicknamed "St. Elsewhere" for being a dumping ground where other hospitals sent unwanted patients) became the setting for television's first truly realistic medical drama. The doctors were flawed and worked in less-than-ideal conditions. Multi-layered narratives interweave throughout episodes, with character arcs spanning entire seasons. St. Elsewhere balanced serious themes and controversial subjects with unexpected humor. It's possibly Brad's favorite series, but what does Tony think?

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

"Dying is easy, comedy is hard."  

So were the alleged dying words of great English actor Edmund Kean in 1833. He couldn't have known that he was giving a perfect review of our film for today, Stanley Kramer's legendary comedic epic of money-grubbing greed, "It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World" (1963).

 A dying criminal's roadside confession about "$350Gs" buried under a "Big W" transforms a group of ordinary motorists into a crazed mob racing across Southern California  in an epic treasure hunt where greed obliterates all sense of decency and cooperation.

Stanley Kramer, known for serious dramas with social messages, assembled "a murderous row"  of famous comics, including  Milton Berle, Sid Caesar, Buddy Hackett, Phil Silvers, Jimmy Durante, Ethel Merman, Jonathan Winters, Sid Caesar,  et al., capped off by the legendary Spencer Tracy in one of his final film performances.  The film captures these mid-century comedy giants at their peak, preserving their unique talents in what has become a time capsule of American humor.

Shot in breathtaking Ultra Panavision, this visual feast pioneered spectacular stunts and chase sequences that would influence action comedies for decades.. Six decades later, "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" remains the gold standard of ensemble comedy, proving that sometimes the journey is more rewarding than the treasure itself. Join the madness and discover why this film continues to inspire passionate devotion from comedy lovers everywhere.

To listen to the wonderful Ernest Gold soundtrack go to https://youtu.be/00LN9EI6XSk?si=1QCyDBdlF1tblvnT 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

We’re having a heat wave this week on "Going Hollywood" as we tackle one of the most iconic--and controversial--films in Hollywood history, starring one of it's greatest stars. Marilyn Monroe in Billy Wilder’s “The Seven Year Itch" (1955)

The film represents a pivotal moment in Hollywood history – a technicolor confection where Marilyn's screen persona fully crystallized into the irresistible combination of sexuality and childlike innocence that captivated the world. We dive deep into what makes her performance special, examining how she elevated potentially problematic material through her impeccable comedic timing and vulnerability. 

Behind the scenes, we uncover the fascinating production challenges faced by director Billy Wilder as he navigated the strict Production Code restrictions, as well as acknowledging the specific challenges a 2025 viewing of the film and its 1950s view of gender dynamics, marriage, and female objectification presents. Rather than canceling such works, we argue for understanding them within their historical context while appreciating the elements that transcend their era – particularly Marilyn's luminous performance.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Boy, do we have some ‘splainin to do! 

In this very special episode we dive into the revolutionary legacy of a television pioneer whose contributions have been overshadowed for decades- Desi Arnaz. While Lucille Ball rightfully earned her place in entertainment history, her husband and business partner fundamentally transformed how television works—from filming techniques to syndication models that still influence the industry today.

We begin by exploring the “I Love Lucy” episode, "Ricky Minds the Baby," which uniquely showcases Desi's comedic talents. After that, we are joined by  special guest Todd S. Purdum, author of the new book, "Desi Arnaz: The Man Who Invented Television". Todd illuminates Desi's ground breaking business decisions, his turbulent personal life, and  how he and Lucy  created the largest TV production company in the world, green-lit iconic shows like “Star Trek” and “Mission Impossible”, and pioneered techniques still used today.

To purchase DESI ARNAZ: THE MAN WHO INVENTED TELEVISION by Todd S. Purdham go to:

Amazon: https://a.co/d/4ZTlE1n

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Macguffins, albinos and dwarves, oh my!

There is that and so much more in our film for today, 1978's "Foul Play". This perfect summer escape film stars Goldie Hawn, Chevy Chase and a whole slew of wonderful and eccentric characters (including a pre-"Arthur" Dudley Moore) all under the guidance of filmmaker extraordinaire, Colin Higgins. 

 Higgins, the creative genius behind "9 to 5," "Harold and Maude," and "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" is sadly little known today, but we intend to rectify that as we discuss this delightful comedy thriller which  perfectly captures his distinctive style: brilliant comedic timing, unforgettable characters, and genuine heart...all wrapped up in this virtual love letter  to Alfred Hitchcock and the noir thrillers of the 1940s and 50s. 

"Foul Play" stars Goldie Hawn as Gloria Mundy, a librarian who inadvertently becomes entangled in a plot to assassinate the Pope after picking up a hitchhiker on the Pacific Coast Highway. Chevy Chase plays the somewhat lecherous but charming detective who falls for Gloria while investigating her increasingly outlandish claims about albinos, dwarfs, and men with scars. The chemistry between these two leads creates movie magic, supported by an incredible ensemble including Moore , Burgess Meredith, and the formidable Rachel Roberts.

 So, are you ready to take a chance on this delightful thriller comedy? Grab your popcorn, your brass knuckles and your favorite cookie-loving python and join us on a trip back to the disco-loving late 70s San Francisco. Oh, and don't forget your Scrabble dictionary...it may come in handy.

Subscribe to our podcast for more deep dives into classic Hollywood gems you may have missed!

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Why return to Minneapolis in the summertime? Because some television landmarks deserve multiple visits. After our first "Mary Tyler Moore" episode last season became one of our most popular, we knew we had to revisit the WJM newsroom and dive deeper into what makes this revolutionary sitcom the gold standard against which all others are measured.

The magic of "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" lies in its perfect balance of humor and authenticity. In this episode we discuss 4 MOORE landmark episodes of the series...and one that was universally considered the only "bad" episode of the show. And of course, along the way we reveal behind-the-scenes stories, bust a few long-held myths, and may even recreate a scene or two (??!)

It's a long, long way to Tipperary, but not when you're traveling with the cherished friends of the WJM newsroom. So, whether you're discovering the show for the first time or revisiting old pals, join us as we celebrate television's most influential workplace family. And yes, we promise to make you laugh—after all, that's what a good podcast can do with spunk...and we hate spunk!

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Movie Stars, ahoy!  And “The Love Boat” it ain’t— it’s the granddaddy of all disaster films: Irwin Allen’s 1972 classic, “The Poseidon Adventure”. 

A wave crashes, a ship flips, and suddenly a boat-load of Oscar-winners find themselves in a fight to survive when the world turns upside down. This groundbreaking 1972 disaster film didn't just entertain audiences—it created the template that would define an entire genre for decades to come. 

There’s got to be a morning after when you join us on this journey of Hell turned upside down!

All ashore that’s going to shore! 

“Poseidon Adventure” Poster Artwork by Dave Woodman

https://www.etsy.com/listing/211799011/dave-woodmans-the-poseidon-adventure?transaction_id=2821471324

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Now boarding TGA Flight #2 non-stop to Rome! We've got elderly stow-aways (and Oscar-winners), surly mechanics, a French New-wave muse,  and oh yes, a former movie star with a briefcase full of dynamite. 

Would you like an aisle or a window seat? 

Please fasten your seat belts as we take flight on "Airport" (Universal, 1970), the iconic film that launched the disaster film genre  dominating  1970s cinema, surprising critics by becoming Universal Pictures' biggest hit ever.  This groundbreaking movie combines melodrama with suspense as multiple characters navigate personal crises against the backdrop of a snowstorm and a mad bomber threatening a transatlantic flight.

Last call! Once the cabin doors are closed, no one will be permitted to board. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

In "Midnight Express" (Columbia, 1978) Brad Davis delivers a gut-wrenching performance as a young man whose brief moment of stupidity in a foreign country derails his entire life and inexorably alters his future. Based on the true story of American tourist Billy Hayes’ harrowing fight to survive and escape from a Turkish prison in the 1970s, the film garnered 6 Oscar nominations and two wins (including one for first-time screenwriter Oliver Stone) and altered US-Turkish relations for years to come.

“Midnight Express” (1978)
Directed by Alan Parker, Screenplay by Oliver Stone
Produced by Peter Guber, Alan Marshall and David Putnam
With Brad Davis, John Hurt, Randy Quaid, Bo Hopkins, and Irene Miracle 
A Columbia Pictures Release

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

The residents of 1313 Mockingbird Lane get ready for their close-up, as we wrap up our spirited “Addams v. Munsters” debate with a nostalgic deep dive into the classic sitcom “The Munsters”.  We explore what sets it apart from “The Addams Family”—not just visually, but culturally—and reminisce about the show’s offbeat charm, its subtle social commentary, and the chemistry between cast members, highlighting icons like Fred Gwynne, Yvonne DeCarlo, and Al Lewis. Join us as we break down two memorable episodes.

Along the way, we reflect on why "The Addams Family" and "The Munsters" shot to the top of the ratings and quickly ended and their continued legacy through spin-offs, reboots, and pop culture references. We share our personal preferences and we declare our victors in the sitcom showdown. Do we agree? Which did each of us choose?

Watch "The Munsters" unaired pilot
Herman teaches Eddie about acceptance. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Three producers. Four formats. One television season. “The Judy Garland Show” stands as a fascinating television tragedy that should have been a triumph. 

In the second part of our special tribute to Judy Garland, we discuss the sad but inevitable decline of what was to be the climax of the legendary singer’s career. Network executives shuffled through producers, writers, and formats with bewildering frequency while Judy struggled to maintain her artistic integrity. Today, "The Judy Garland Show" serves as both a testament to Garland's extraordinary gifts and a cautionary tale about television's sometimes ruthless treatment of even its greatest artists.

JUDY art by Henry LaMarr 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

In the fall of 1963, television audiences witnessed something extraordinary –  the legendary Judy Garland starring in her very own weekly variety show on CBS. What should have been a triumphant venture and crowning achievement to an already legendary career became instead one of entertainment's most fascinating tragedies... and it was all captured forever on videotape.

With a roster of guest stars ranging from old pals Mickey Rooney and Martha Raye, to the powerhouse Ethel Merman, to a 21-year old singing sensation named Barbra Streisand, "The Judy Garland Show" is a testament to the unique magic of the greatest entertainer of her time, and our only visual documentation of the mature artist at the height of her powers singing the songs that defined her legacy. So, forget your troubles, come on, get happy, and join us for Part One of our special two-part episode on "The Judy Garland Show".

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Listen, mister man! We don’t want to get all “oogly” about it, but Kathy Bates went from a relatively unknown, but respected, stage actress to an Academy Award winner when she portrayed one of cinema's most unforgettable villains in 1990's "Misery." Meanwhile, James Caan, who had disappeared from Hollywood's A-list during the 1980s, found himself back in the spotlight playing the bedridden writer forced to resurrect his killed-off character.

Join us as we explore the film that remains Stephen King's favorite adaptation of his work and the only one to win an Oscar.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

In our final “Mother's May” episode, we explore what may be the most psychologically disturbing maternal figure in film history - Angela Lansbury as Eleanor Shaw Iselin in “The Manchurian Candidate”, a brilliantly prescient political thriller that resonates as strongly today as it did in 1962 release.

The Manchurian Candidate (UA, 1962)

Starring Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh and Angela Lansbury.

Screenplay by George Axelrod based on the book by Richard Condon 

Directed by John Frankenheimer

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Well, kiss our grits! Our "Mother's May" celebration continues with a TV Mom--  a widow with a young son who became one of television's most beloved mother figures, Alice Hyatt. "Alice" wasn't just another sitcom—it was a cultural touchstone that made Linda Lavin a household name and introduced us to unforgettable characters who felt like family.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

It’s an interesting Mother’s Day celebration today, as we discuss our two very different experiences with George Steven’s 1948 masterpiece, “I Remember Mama”, the story of the everyday struggles and triumphs of a Norwegian immigrant family in 1910 San Francisco. At the heart of this story stands Mama, portrayed by the extraordinary Irene Dunne in what would be her fifth and final Oscar nominated performance. Dunne brings remarkable authenticity to this character—a woman who manages household finances with military precision yet approaches her family with boundless tenderness. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Happy Mother's May everyone! In our first episode for our special "Mother's May" celebration, we discuss one of the seminal dramas of the 1980s- Robert Redford's Oscar-winning film, "Ordinary People" (1980).

Mary Tyler Moore delivers the performance of her career as Beth Jarrett, America's sweetheart transformed into the emotionally unavailable mother whose brittleness masks unprocessed grief.  Timothy Hutton, winning the Oscar at just 20 years old (still the youngest Supporting Actor winner ever), demonstrates remarkable emotional depth as Conrad, the surviving son navigating his recovery after a suicide attempt.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

It's Tony's birthday and we commemorate the event by celebrating one of the greatest romantic comedies of the silent film era, Mary Pickford's final silent masterpiece…from 1927, “My Best Girl". Far more than just another romantic comedy, this jewel captures a pivotal moment in Hollywood history—the absolute peak of silent filmmaking just before sound would forever change the medium. What makes this nearly century-old film remarkably special is watching real romance bloom on screen. 

 Discover this classic gem and experience the magic of Hollywood's most influential pioneering star at the height of her powers.

To watch the documentary, "Mary Pickford: A Blessing and a Curse" , (Wichita Films, 2024) go to https://vimeo.com/ondemand/pickfordvavimeo

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

The butler didn't do it! Then again, Dame Agatha Christie never wrote that tired cliche. Join us as we embark on a glamorous, deadly journey down the Nile as we dissect the 1978 adaptation of Dame Agatha Christie's masterpiece, "Death on the Nile", a film that perfectly balances humor, intrigue, and shocking violence against the breathtaking backdrop of Egypt.

Whether you're a mystery aficionado, a fan of classic Hollywood, or someone who appreciates the art of storytelling at its finest, this episode illuminates why Death on the Nile remains superior to modern adaptations and stands as one of the most entertaining entries in Christie's filmed legacy. Join us for an episode as rich in character as it is in murder.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

"Nobody's as good as Bette when she's bad!"

 So heralded a famous movie tagline from the 1940s, and nothing could be more appropriate for today’s film, Lillian Helman's tale of mendacity in the moonlight, 1941's The Little Foxes.  In this classic film, the one and only Bette Davis plays Regina Giddens, a woman whose ambition knows no boundaries, and whose determination knows no limit. Many film scholars herald Davis’s performance as the greatest of her career…. and we agree. Delivered in mask-like makeup with an icy and lethal hardness, it is a bold and brave performance, and one that ultimately earned her a fourth consecutive Oscar nomination. It is also one that would also irreparably damage her working relationship with her favorite director, the incomparable  William Wyler.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Are you a Morticia, or are you a Lily?

That's a question that has plagued TV views since a single autumn week in 1964 that featured two seismic TV debuts—"The Addams Family" and one week later, "The Munsters".  In this two-part episode, we answer  it for ourselves.  We also zoom in on why audiences were ready for supernatural comfort, how the networks raced to premiere first, and what made these two “normal” families feel so different once the front door swung open. Think urbane eccentricity versus blue-collar sweetness, mat paintings versus the Universal backlot, and a pair of theme songs that still cue instant nostalgia.

In this episode, we spend real time with The Addams Family: John Astin and Carolyn Jones crafting a playful, startlingly sensual marriage; Ted Cassidy’s Lurch turning a single “You rang?” into an entire mood; and Jackie Coogan’s Uncle Fester. Across the hour, we trace how cultural context and craft shaped legacy. "The Munsters" won early ratings, but "The Addams Family" thrives in color and in reimaginings—from the 90s films to a Broadway musical to Netflix's "Wednesday"—because its tone flexes without breaking the core: a loving family that refuses to apologize for being different.

So, if you’ve ever argued Morticia vs Lily, snapped along to Vic Mizzy’s theme, or wondered how 1313 Mockingbird Lane stacks up to 0001 Cemetery Lane, you’ll feel right at home here. So join us as we take a nostalgic visit to two iconic addresses and visit our friends, The Addams and The Munsters. 

Oh, snap! 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

As we launch into our second season, we couldn't think of a better filmmaker to celebrate than the masterful comedic genius of Mel Brooks. We give our take on two iconic films that showcase different facets of his boundary-pushing humor: "Blazing Saddles" and "High Anxiety. A Mel Brooks, whose commitment to pushing comedy to its limits while maintaining heart and intelligence continues to inspire. What's your favorite Mel Brooks film? Let us know as we dive into a season filled with exciting themed months and special guest appearances!

Mel Brooks singing High Anxiety on YouTube.
https://bit.ly/4jgbScT

Text us your opinion or comment

You can find transcripts, a link to Tony's website, and a link to Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Tony's documentary "Mel & Hitch: Spoofing the Master of Suspense" is available on AMAZON at https://a.co/d/eOpDF3C

Mel Brooks singing High Anxiety available on YouTube.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

It’s our Christmas episode! And what could be more appropriate than celebrating the most wonderful time of the year with one of the most joyous films ever made? From 1958, it’s “Auntie Mame.”  This classic film starring the magnificent Rosalind Russell in her most iconic role has become a holiday staple for many movie fans, and captures the essence of living life to the fullest in this holiday season.

Are we all lit??!

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

We’re finishing off our first season of “Going Hollywood” on a high with a true masterpiece of chilling prophecy... from 1976, Paddy Chayefsky's "Network”! We explore how the film foretold the merging of news and entertainment long it became a norm at the networks. Sidney Lumet's collaboration with Chayefsky is also in the spotlight, as we discuss how their work revealed the troubling shift towards opinion-based news sources.

With legendary figures like Walter Cronkite as our backdrop, we dive into the brilliance of Chayefsky’s screenplay and the outstanding performances that brought "Network" to life. From Peter Finch’s unforgettable portrayal of Howard Beale to Faye Dunaway’s daring role as Diana Christensen, we examine the intricate characters and relationships that add to the film's biting satire. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

We explore the 1949 masterpiece "The Heiress," starring Olivia de Havilland, Ralph Richardson, Montgomery Clift, and Miriam Hopkins. Discover how de Havilland's break from Warner Brothers led her to a role that would define an era, as we unravel the nuanced performances and emotional depth of this iconic film. With insights fresh from Brad's first viewing and Tony's long-standing admiration.

The psychological complexity of the characters takes center stage. Our episode sheds light on the intricate dynamics between old and new Tinseltown, exemplified by the riveting roles of Hopkins, Clift, and de Havilland. With Wyler's unique approach to extracting Oscar-worthy performances, we delve into the tension and artistry on set. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Ever wondered what it would be like if Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced "Bouquet") had a social media account in today's world? We explore the timeless humor of "Keeping Up Appearances,"(BBC, 1990-1995) drawing parallels between Hyacinth's endearing antics and the curated personas of modern social media influencers. Join us as we journey through the sitcom's charming world, celebrating everything from Hyacinth's infamous candlelight suppers to her hilarious misadventures that kept us all entertained across 70 countries.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Revisit a special moment with us as we relive Tony's second appearance on Brad's podcast, "Queer We Are," a conversation so rich we like to think of it as the "lost pilot" of our own show, "Going Hollywood." We discuss Tony's new documentary, "Cary Grant: The Man He Dreamed of Being" and celebrate this icon from Hollywood's golden age. We navigate the tricky waters of discussing historical figures with a focus on accuracy, steering clear of rumors and emphasizing Grant's work over speculation about his personal life. Our discussion takes a turn towards identity fluidity, connecting the dots between the past and the present, and drawing parallels with other legends like Katharine Hepburn.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Renowned playwright and composer Stephen Dolginoff joins us to unravel the chilling narrative behind Alfred Hitchcock's "Rope" and its connection to the real-life crime of Leopold and Loeb. We promise a captivating journey through the film's thematic ties to Nietzsche's superman theory and the concept of thrill killings. As we mark the 100th anniversary of the infamous crime, Stephen shares his unique insights from crafting the musical "Thrill Me," which has mesmerized audiences worldwide with its haunting retelling of this dark chapter in history.

Hitchcock’s technical wizardry takes center stage as we explore the groundbreaking cinematic efforts that brought "Rope" to life. By using continuous takes, Hitchcock crafted a tense, immersive experience, skillfully navigating the technical challenges of his time. We also discuss the film’s nuanced depiction of a homosexual relationship, a daring move amid the constraints of the 1940s Production Code. With thoughtful casting decisions, including Jimmy Stewart's intriguing role, the film layers complexity over the suspenseful plot that continues to captivate audiences today.

Our conversation dives into the psychology behind thrill killings and the allure of true crime in art and storytelling. Stephen shares the inspiration behind "Thrill Me" and its compelling portrayal of the notorious Leopold and Loeb. 

Learn more about Stephen Dolginoff
stephendolginoff.com
Link to "Thrill Maker" by Stephen
thrillmaker.com

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Uncover the secrets behind "Rosemary's Baby" and explore its eerie brilliance with us. From the haunting lullaby composed by Krzysztof Komeda to the fascinating fiction of Tannis root, we promise a new appreciation for the film's chilling scenes that still captivate audiences today. We'll discuss standout performances, notably Mia Farrow's unsettling dream sequences and Ruth Gordon's unique comedic flair, which add a layer of depth to Roman Polanski's masterpiece. Immerse yourself in a reflection on the intricate themes of paranoia and women's liberation woven into this feminist horror classic. We'll dissect how Polanski's storytelling techniques and strategic marketing contributed to the film's success, as well as the behind-the-scenes stories that add to its mystique. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

It's Halloween night in 1962, and an unsuspecting world is not quite prepared for what it is about to experience...two legendary stars from Hollywood's Golden Age unleash decades of resentment, rage, and recrimination on each other and on the movie going public. It's "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane" and movies--and movie stars--will never be the same. 

 Discover the captivating story behind Bette Davis and Joan Crawford's legendary  and unforgettable collaboration on "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" This episode promises to take you on a journey through the complex dynamics of these two iconic actresses, with insights from an exclusive 1987 interview with Bette Davis. We promise you'll gain a whole new perspective on their fierce rivalry, their shared drive, and even the personal betrayals that haunted their lives.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

It’s our “Trick or Treat” episode! And no movie is full of more tricks, or treats, than Neil Simon’s 1976 classic “Murder by Death” Packed with wit and an oddball cast of literary detectives, this 1976 film offers more than just mystery; it serves up a cocktail of laughter and intrigue. We honor the late Dame Maggie Smith and her role in this cinematic gem that turns the traditional whodunit on its head. With a plot orchestrated by the enigmatic Lionel Twain, played by Truman Capote in a rare film appearance, the twists and absurdities keep you guessing and giggling in equal measure.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Oh, Rhoda!

Before the iconic Ms. Morgenstern, there was another Rhoda...a 9-year-old psychopath that struck terror in her enemies, torment in the hearts of her loved ones, and unintended laughter from the audience watching her exploits. Yes, it's the camp classic, "The Bad Seed" from Warner Bros in 1956, starring the iconic Patty McCormack and the insufferably dramatic Nancy Kelly. 

A nine-year-old with perfect penmanship and a talent for murder shouldn’t be funny—yet "The Bad Seed" somehow is. We dive into how a Broadway sensation became a Hollywood lightning rod, why Mervyn LeRoy shot it like a stage play, and how the Production Code twisted a bleak ending into a thunderbolt of “justice.” Along the way, we unpack the nature versus nurture debate that rattled 1950s audiences, the strange power of offscreen violence, and the way theatrical performances from Nancy Kelly, Patty McCormack, and the incomparable Eileen Heckart create a tone that’s equal parts chilling and camp.

So, postpone your social obligations and join us as we celebrate the perverse joys of “The Bad Seed”!

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Is "Bride of Frankenstein" the greatest horror film ever made? Join us as we dissect this 1935 classic, inspired by a listener email from Susan, and saved for our special Halloween month episode. We promise you’ll gain fresh insights into James Whale's comedic vision, which we liken to Sidney Pollack's dramatic flair in "Tootsie." We’ll debate its standing against other iconic horror films like "The Thing," and explore how humor and campiness contribute to its lasting charm.

We'll guide you through the film's significance as a sequel to 1931's "Frankenstein," noting its accessibility even for first-time viewers. Discover the film's faster pace, increased humor, and higher body count—all achieved despite the constraints of the Hays Code. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Ever wondered how a simple farm life could be so hilariously absurd? Get ready to unravel the quirky world of "Green Acres" as we dive deep into its brilliant mix of comedy and surrealism. From a Sesame Street-inspired game to the surprising links with the works of Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter, we promise you’ll never look at this classic TV show the same way again. Discover how "Green Acres" pioneered a mockumentary style long before "The Office" and "Modern Family" hit our screens.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

All good things must come to an end, and that goes Darrin-double in this episode as we wrap up our "Happy Birthday, Bewitched!" episodes with the tales of Morning Glory Circle's final three years...a/k/a "The Dick Sargent Era". Join us as we celebrate and examine the show's evolution across two distinct eras and two distinct Dicks...York and Sargent.  We'll take you through a journey filled with personal anecdotes, captivating moments, of the show's final years... and heartfelt tributes to Elizabeth Montgomery's timeless appeal and her bewitching legacy.

Discover the true story behind Dick York's painful struggle on set and how it impacted his unforgettable performances. We'll explore the creative ways the show adapted to York's absence and the stark contrast with his successor, Dick Sargent. From Agnes Moorehead's fierce loyalty to York to the palpable tension with Sargent, we leave no stone unturned in understanding the dynamics that shaped "Bewitched." 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Join us for a special 60th-anniversary celebration of the classic TV show "Bewitched" as we discuss the beloved sitcom's place in television history. In this first of 2 episodes, we'll concentrate on the show's first 5 years, a/k/a - the Dick York era.  We kick off the episode with some fun singing and then embark on a nostalgic journey through the rich history and trivia of this beloved series. We explore the show's origins, the initial casting choices, and the memorable pilot episode "I, Darren, Take This Witch, Samantha."  We also reminisce about characters like Uncle Arthur and Aunt Clara, whose limited screen time left a lasting impact, and reflect on how the show has continued to bring joy and charm to our lives.

Curious about how "Bewitched" came to be and the fascinating stories behind its cast?  

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Today we take on romance  and discuss one of the greatest romantic pairings in cinema history...Paul Newman and Robert Redford, specifically in "The Sting" (1973).  What makes this Best Picture Oscar-winner such an enduring classic, and how did the bromance between Paul Newman and Robert Redford redefine cinematic pairings? Join us as we, along with special guest Bob Lament from Static Radio, dissect the magic that made this film a box office sensation since its festive release in 1973. We kick off with a discussion about the undeniable chemistry of Newman and Redford, exploring how their dynamic overshadows traditional romantic narratives and the impact they left on Hollywood.

You can find Static Radio at staticradio.com

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Did Katharine Hepburn truly shine in "Alice Adams," or was it one of her more excruciating performances? Join us for “The Great Kate Debate” as we passionately discuss the 1935 classic, starring Hepburn alongside Fred MacMurray. While one of us sees it as a delightful highlight of Hepburn's early career, the other labels it a torturous experience. We also provide a glimpse into the film's historical backdrop and Hepburn's rapid rise and fall in Hollywood.

This episode isn't just about the film itself; it's a deep dive into the career of Katharine Hepburn during a pivotal time. We scrutinize Hepburn's celebrated performance in "Alice Adams," for which she received a Best Actress nomination, and compare it to Bette Davis' win for "Dangerous." Explore Hepburn's on-screen insecurities versus her real-life audacity, her bold entry into Hollywood, and the profound direction of George Stevens. From Alice's desperate attempts to fit into high society to the emotionally charged scenes shaped by Stevens' insistence on genuine emotion, this discussion captures the essence of the film's most poignant moments. Through our fervent and sometimes contentious discussion, we uncover the layers of this classic film and its place in the annals of Hollywood history.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

What if your favorite sitcoms did more than just entertain—they shaped societal attitudes and pushed boundaries? Join us as we welcome Matt Baume, an expert in gay television history and the acclaimed author of "Hi Honey, I'm Homo," to explore the enduring legacy of "All in the Family." We'll revisit two groundbreaking episodes featuring the character Beverly LaSalle,  and confront our own 21st century assumptions about a show very much centered in the 20th.

From "Bewitched" to "Will and Grace," sitcoms have played a pivotal role in queer representation and societal acceptance. With Matt's insightful perspective, we'll highlight key episodes and moments that used comedy to convey serious social messages. 

Learn more about Matt as well as find links to his YouTube videos, his podcasts, and his book "Honey I'm Homo" at mattbaume.com

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Ever found yourself wondering what films truly deserve a spot among the cinematic greats? Join us as we embark on a funny and candid countdown of our top five favorite films and beloved lazy Sunday afternoon picks. From Brad’s surprising choice of "Deadpool" to Tony’s classic Hollywood gems like "Singin’ in the Rain",  we promise a spirited debate that reflects our unique tastes and preferences. But do we answer the question of whose taste is more refined? You decide. 

Connect with us through our website and social media for more insights and fun. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

What makes "Chinatown" one of the most iconic films in Hollywood history? Join us as we uncover the layers of this 1974 classic in our comprehensive breakdown. From the intricate plot involving a murder mystery and water scandal to its high ranking on AFI's list, we explore why this film remains a cornerstone of American cinema. Be forewarned: we go deep into the story, revealing all the twists and turns that make "Chinatown" unforgettable. Consider watching the movie before hitting play to avoid any spoilers.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

In the 1982 classic film "Tootsie," Dustin Hoffman's character, Michael Dorsey, transforms into Dorothy Michaels. Brad and Tony dive into how Hoffman's incredible performance blurred the lines between character and actor, making Dorothy Michaels an unforgettable icon.

Discover the tumultuous yet creative relationship between Hoffman and director Sidney Pollack, and the initial inspiration for the film. In addition, they would have been remiss if they didn't include the rest of the stellar cast in the conversation. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

We dive into Jesus Christ Superstar as a human story told through rock, politics, and performance, balancing reverence with critique. From a bus in the desert to tanks on the dunes, we trace how Norman Jewison’s choices turn myth into modern memory.

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Revisit the journey of Rhoda from singlehood to marriage and back, sprinkled with personal anecdotes and hilarious behind-the-scenes moments. Our special guest co-host Scott Fullerton, the host of the Left of Str8 Podcast, brings his humor and a unique perspective to the conversation, making this nostalgic trip down memory lane.

The discussion continues with the jaw-dropping decision to have Rhoda and Joe separate and the cultural significance and emotional turmoil that followed, both on screen and off.
Find Scott Fullerton at leftofstr8podcasts.com

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

S01 E16 How much of "Postcards from the Edge" mirrors Carrie Fisher’s own tumultuous life? Tony and Brad explore the real-life inspirations behind the film's mother-daughter dynamics, brought to life by the stellar performances of Meryl Streep and Shirley MacLaine. The lines blur as they dissect the film’s blend of reality and creativity. Focusing on unforgettable moments and true-to-life anecdotes they delve into standout scenes that showcase the talents of an impressive cast.  

This episode celebrates Carrie Fisher’s biting humor and screenwriting genius. Tony and Brad exchange personal stories and candidly share their admiration for Fisher's ability to infuse humor into challenging situations, turning negative comments into comedic gold. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Brace yourself for a journey through the scandalous and secretive world of Tinseltown as Brad and Tony uncover the life of Scotty Bowers. They discuss Bowers' controversial revelations from the documentary "Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood," including his clandestine operations out of a Hollywood gas station. Balancing on the delicate line between privacy and public knowledge, the hosts scrutinize the impact of Bowers' stories on the legacy of Hollywood's elite and ponder the societal norms that dictated the secret lives of individuals during the mid-20th century.

The episode wouldn't be complete without a deep dive into the personal lives of iconic stars like Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, examining how Bowers helped them navigate their authentic selves in a judgmental era. Scotty's life is both fascinating and provocative.

Tony on Facebook
Tony on Instagram
Tony on YouTube

Brad on Facebook
Brad on Instagram
Brad on TikTok

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.

Ever wonder how a single film could change Hollywood forever with one titanic screen performance? Well, one did, and it's called "A Streetcar Named Desire". Join us as we dissect Marlon Brando's unforgettable performance as the animalistic Stanley Kowalski and his seismic impact on the acting world and on film itself, reshaping it with his raw, naturalistic approach.  Besides his magnetic presence in those skin-tight t-shirts, we debate whether or not Vivien Leigh was the right choice to cast as Blanche DuBois, and what inevitable comparisons with her other great screen belle, Scarlett O'Hara, brought to her performance, as well as celebrating the incredible contributions of Kim Hunter, Karl Malden, and the visionary direction of Elia Kazan. Brad and Tony also share their personal experiences with this timeless piece that forever altered the landscape of cinema and theatre.

They dive into the complicated plot structure and the cast's electrifying performances. The challenges of translating the play into film under the watchful eyes of the production code are explored, as well as Kazan's efforts to protect Tennessee Williams' vision while rebalancing the narrative. 

Text us or Leave a Voice Mail

Brad's YouTube channel, Our Chosen Spanish Life. youtube.com/@ourchosenspanishlife

 Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

To watch "The True Story of the Barrymores," go to https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZTHYN6D/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r

To watch Tony's WIRED video "Tech Support: Old Hollywood" go to https://youtu.be/6hxXfxhQSz0?si=TO4Xv6q87XhBnqDT

Reach us at goinghollywoodpod@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist on Spotify.