Chill or Be Chilled. Let's Watch It Again is back!

Rob Lee is joined by Lea Anderson to discuss the 1995 cult classic Tales from the Hood!

Tales from the Hood (1995) is a Black horror anthology directed by Rusty Cundieff, framed by a late-night visit to a funeral home where a mortician guides three men through four supernatural morality tales addressing police brutality, domestic abuse, racism, and gang violence.

In this retrospective, host Rob Lee and horror scholar Lea Anderson (Truth in This Art alum; FANGORIA columnist, SHUDDER contributor) examine the film’s construction, cultural context, and legacy in Black horror.

Topics include:

• The anthology’s frame narrative and how it threads the segments together
• Segment-by-segment themes and social commentary
• Key performances, including Clarence Williams III and David Alan Grier
• Practical effects, puppetry, and memorable set pieces
• Production and release context: 1995 box office, competition (Casper, Braveheart, Johnny Mnemonic), and reception
• The film’s enduring relevance and place in the horror canon

In this review, Rob Lee welcomes Dom Griffin on to the podcast to discuss 2003's Kill Bill Vol. 1.

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Kill Bill:Vol. 1 Trailer

IMDb: 8.2/10

Rotten Tomatoes:  81%

Google: 91%

Summary

After awakening from a four-year coma, a former assassin wreaks vengeance on the team of assassins who betrayed her.
A former assassin, known simply as The Bride (Uma Thurman), wakes from a coma four years after her jealous ex-lover Bill (David Carradine) attempts to murder her on her wedding day. Fueled by an insatiable desire for revenge, she vows to get even with every person who contributed to the loss of her unborn child, her entire wedding party, and four years of her life. After devising a hit list, The Bride sets off on her quest, enduring unspeakable injuries and unscrupulous enemies.

Release date: October 10, 2003 (USA)

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Genre: Wire-Fu Japan Heroine Revenge Assassin

Music composed by: RZA, Lars Ulrich, and Ennio Morricone

Distributed by: Miramax, Miramax Home Entertainment

Adapted from: Lady Snowblood

Box office: $180.9 million

Cast
Uma Thurman
Lucy Liu
David Carradine
Vivica A. Fox
Michael Madsen
Daryl Hannah
Julie Dreyfus
Sonny Chiba
Chiaki Kuriyama
Gordon Liu
Michael Parks
Jun Kunimura
Kenji Ohba
Kazuki Kitamura
James Parks
Jonathan Loughran
Yuki Kazamatsuri
Sakichi Sato
Ambrosia Kelley
The 5.6.7.8's
Yōji Tanaka
Issey Takahashi
Juri Manase
Akaji Maro
Ai Maeda
Naomi Kusumi
Hikaru Midorikawa

Additional Show notes

Dom’s Definitive Tarantino Power Rankings
Rob's Quentin Tarantino List

Join host Rob Lee as he welcomes Greg back to the podcast for an electrifying discussion about the 1980s cult-classic, Miami Connection. In this thrilling episode, they delve into the wild world of motorcycle ninjas, martial arts rock bands, and roundhouse wreck-waves of justice. Together, they explore the audacious storyline, the unforgettable characters, and the infectious charm that have made Miami Connection a beloved cult phenomenon. From the passionate performances by Y.K. Kim, Vincent Hirsch, and Joseph Diamand to the unique blend of action, comedy, and music, they unravel the secrets behind this hidden gem. Get ready to immerse yourself in the glorious chaos and nostalgic brilliance of Miami Connection.

Rob Lee welcomes Isaiah Winters back on to the podcast to discuss the 1992 classic, Candyman.

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Candyman (1992) Trailer

6.7/10 IMDb

77 % Rotten Tomatoes

61 % Metacritic

83 % Google Users

Summary

Skeptical graduate student Helen Lyle  befriends Anne-Marie McCoy while researching superstitions in a housing project on Chicago's Near North Side. From Anne-Marie, Helen learns about the Candyman, a knife-wielding figure of urban legend that some of her neighbors believe to be responsible for a recent murder. After a mysterious man matching the Candyman's description begins stalking her, Helen comes to fear that the legend may be all too real.

Release date:  October 16, 1992

Director:

Bernard Rose

Starring
 
Virginia Madsen
Tony Todd
Xander Berkeley
Kasi Lemmons

Box office:

$25.8 million

Screenplay
Bernard Rose

Based on "The Forbidden"
by Clive Barker

Cinematography
Anthony B. Richmond

Music by
Philip Glass

Rob Lee welcomes Liv Eutsler on to the podcast to discuss the 1996 classic, Scream. 

Wes Craven re-invented and revitalised the slasher-horror genre with this modern horror classic, which manages to be funny, clever and scary, as a fright-masked knife maniac stalks high-school students in middle-class suburbia. Craven is happy to provide both tension and self-parody as the body count mounts - but the victims aren't always the ones you'd expect.

Rob Lee & Ku review The Transformers: The Movie. The heroic Autobots defend their homeworld Cybertron from the evil Decepticons. Both factions are seething with anger, and that hatred has blinded them to a hideous menace headed their way.

Be sure to check out other great episodes here. 

Rob Lee welcomes Torin on to the Let's Watch It Again podcast to discuss 2011's Drive.

Driver is a skilled Hollywood stuntman who moonlights as a getaway driver for criminals. Though he projects an icy exterior, lately he's been warming up to a pretty neighbor named Irene and her young son, Benicio. When Irene's husband gets out of jail, he enlists Driver's help in a million-dollar heist. The job goes horribly wrong, and Driver must risk his life to protect Irene and Benicio from the vengeful masterminds behind the robbery.

Rob Lee welcomes podcaster Just Greg on to the Let's Watch It Again podcast to discuss the the 1991's Spike Lee Joint Jungle Fever.

A married black lawyer named Flipper (Wesley Snipes) begins an affair with Angie (Annabella Sciorra), his white secretary. When the news is leaked through an acquaintance, Flipper's wife (Lonette McKee) kicks him out of the house. Flipper decides to begin courting his mistress, only to be greeted by disapproval from friends, family and even strangers. The relationship continues to be strained in a society not ready to accept it, and people are hurt during its inception.

Join host Rob Lee as he welcomes radio personality Sam Sessa to the Let's Watch It Again podcast for a riveting discussion about the 1991 classic, Terminator 2: Judgment Day. In this exhilarating episode, they revisit the iconic sequel that defined a generation. From the relentless pursuit of the shape-shifting T-1000 to the reimagined T-800, they explore the heart-pounding action, groundbreaking visual effects, and the unexpected emotional depth of this sci-fi masterpiece. Delve into the fascinating bond between young John Connor, his resilient mother, and the formidable Terminator, portrayed by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Prepare to immerse yourself in the timeless battle between man and machine, as they dissect the legacy and enduring impact of Terminator 2: Judgment Day.

Rob Lee welcomes Brooklyn based photographer Isaiah Winters on to the Let's Watch It Again podcast to discuss the 1991 classic, Boyz n the Hood.

Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.) is sent to live with his father, Furious Styles (Larry Fishburne), in tough South Central Los Angeles. Although his hard-nosed father instills proper values and respect in him, and his devout girlfriend Brandi (Nia Long) teaches him about faith, Tre's friends Doughboy (Ice Cube) and Ricky (Morris Chestnut) don't have the same kind of support and are drawn into the neighborhood's booming drug and gang culture, with increasingly tragic results.

Rob Lee welcomes Brooklyn based photographer Isaiah Winters on to the Let's Watch It Again podcast to discuss the 1986 classic, The Fly. 

When scientist Seth Brundle (Jeff Goldblum) completes his teleportation device, he decides to test its abilities on himself. Unbeknownst to him, a housefly slips in during the process, leading to a merger of man and insect. Initially, Brundle appears to have undergone a successful teleportation, but the fly's cells begin to take over his body. As he becomes increasingly fly-like, Brundle's girlfriend (Geena Davis) is horrified as the person she once loved deteriorates into a monster.

Rob Lee welcomes his brother, Rudy, on to the Let's Watch It Again podcast to discuss the 1996's classic, Space Jam.

Swackhammer (Danny DeVito), an evil alien theme park owner, needs a new attraction at Moron Mountain. When his gang, the Nerdlucks, heads to Earth to kidnap Bugs Bunny (Billy West) and the Looney Tunes, Bugs challenges them to a basketball game to determine their fate. The aliens agree, but they steal the powers of NBA basketball players, including Larry Bird (Larry Bird) and Charles Barkley (Charles Barkley) -- so Bugs gets some help from superstar Michael Jordan (Michael Jordan).

Be sure to check out other great episodes here. 

In this review, Rob Lee welcomes podcaster Greg Hunter on to the podcast to discuss 1993's CB4.

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CB4 Trailer

6.2/10

IMDb

52%

Rotten Tomatoes

4.1/5

Vudu

76% Google

Summary

After many failed attempts to establish themselves as rappers, Albert (Chris Rock), Euripedes (Allen Payne) and Otis (Deezer D) get their big break when nightclub owner Gusto (Charlie Murphy) is arrested. Albert assumes his name and criminal past, becoming MC Gusto, and the trio rises to fame by pretending to be recently released felons. As their fame increases, so do tensions within the group. When Gusto escapes from prison, he is furious at having his identity stolen and vows revenge.

Release date: March 12, 1993 (USA)

Director:
Tamra Davis

Cast
Chris Rock
Allen Payne
Deezer D
Charlie Murphy
Khandi Alexander
Phil Hartman
Chris Elliott

Join host Rob Lee as he welcomes Baltimore-based photographer Schaun Champion to the podcast for an enthralling discussion about the 1986 classic, Aliens. In this captivating episode, they venture into the depths of space and revisit the pulse-pounding sequel that continues the thrilling journey of Lt. Ripley. Together, they unravel the intense action, spine-chilling suspense, and the masterful storytelling that have made Aliens an enduring masterpiece. From Sigourney Weaver's iconic performance to the harrowing encounters with the formidable aliens, they explore the film's impact on the sci-fi genre and its lasting influence. Prepare to be immersed in the thrilling world of extraterrestrial terror as they delve into the heart of Aliens.

Join host Rob Lee and guest Aaron Brown as they dive into the thrilling world of the 1991 Keanu Reeves flick, Point Break. In this exhilarating podcast episode, they explore the action-packed story of a gang of bank robbers who don masks of ex-Presidents while committing crimes. With the F.B.I. suspecting that the robbers are surfers, young Agent Johnny Utah is sent undercover to infiltrate the surfing community and gather crucial information. As Utah becomes entangled in the captivating lifestyle of his new friend, Bodhi, they discuss the film's themes of adrenaline, friendship, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Prepare to catch the wave of excitement as they analyze the thrilling moments and enduring appeal of Point Break.

Rob Lee & Greg discuss the 1990 Denzel Washington starring Spike Lee Joint, Mo' Better Blues.

Financially irresponsible Giant (Spike Lee) manages a jazz group, but his sax player, Shadow (Wesley Snipes), wants to replace him with a better businessman. Bleak (Denzel Washington), the band's trumpeter, then tries to defend his close pal Giant, leading to a power struggle between the two musicians. Meanwhile, as Bleak tries to straighten things out with his band mates and manager, he also must choose to be with either sweet teacher Indigo (Joie Lee) or sultry singer Clarke (Cynda Williams).

Be sure to check out other great episodes here. 

Rob Lee, Rudy & Torin discuss the 1986 John Hughes classic film starring Matthew Broderick, Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

A high school wise guy is determined to have a day off from school, despite what the Principal thinks of that.

Be sure to check out other great episodes here. 

Rob Lee & Rudy discuss the 1995 Robert Rodriguez film starring Antonio Banderas, Desperado.

Mariachi (Antonio Banderas) plunges headfirst into the dark border underworld when he follows a trail of blood to the last of the infamous Mexican drug lords, Bucho (Joaquim de Almeida), for an action-packed, bullet-riddled showdown. With the help of his best friend (Steve Buscemi) and a beautiful bookstore owner (Salma Hayek), the Mariachi tracks Bucho, takes on his army of desperados, and leaves a trail of blood of his own.

Be sure to check out other great episodes here. 

Join host Rob Lee as he invites writer Kumari Adams to delve into the captivating world of 1992's Batman Returns. In this podcast episode, they explore the dark and thrilling sequel directed by Tim Burton, discussing its memorable characters, captivating storyline, and the chemistry between the cast members. Get ready to relive the excitement and uncover hidden gems as they share their insights and perspectives on this iconic superhero film.

In this Moonlight - Movie Review, Rob Lee welcomes designer Christopher J Chester on to the podcast to discuss 2016's Academy Award Winner for Best Picture Moonlight.

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Moonlight Trailer

7.4/10

IMDb

98%

Rotten Tomatoes

99%

Metacritic

81% liked this movie

Google users

Summary

A look at three defining chapters in the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. His epic journey to manhood is guided by the kindness, support and love of the community that helps raise him.

Release date: October 21 2016 (USA)

Director:
Barry Jenkins

Cast
Trevante Rhodes
André Holland
Janelle Monáe
Ashton Sanders
Jharrel Jerome
Naomie Harris
Mahershala Ali

Join host Rob Lee as he invites veteran entertainment writer and Director of Events & Community Engagement for WTMD and WYPR, Sam Sessa, to embark on an exciting discussion about the sci-fi masterpiece, 1997's The Fifth Element. In this captivating movie review podcast episode, they delve into the visionary world created by director Luc Besson, exploring its unique blend of action, adventure, and futuristic elements. From the stellar performances by Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, Milla Jovovich, and Chris Tucker to the iconic costume designs by Jean Paul Gaultier, they uncover the magic and impact of this beloved cult classic.

Rob Lee welcomes Dom Griffin on to the podcast to discuss the 1987's classic meat movie Predator.

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Predator Trailer

7.8/10 IMDb

80% Rotten Tomatoes

46% Metacritic

Summary

Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger), a soldier of fortune, is hired by the U.S. government to secretly rescue a group of politicians trapped in Guatemala. But when Dutch and his team, which includes weapons expert Blain (Jesse Ventura) and CIA agent George (Carl Weathers), land in Central America, something is gravely wrong. After finding a string of dead bodies, the crew discovers they are being hunted by a brutal creature with superhuman strength and the ability to disappear into its surroundings.

Release date:  June 11, 1993

Director:

John McTiernan

Starring

Arnold Schwarzenegger
Carl Weathers

Writers

Jim Thomas

John Thomas

Join host Rob Lee as he welcomes Kumari to the podcast to embark on an exhilarating discussion about the timeless classic, 1993's Jurassic Park. In this captivating episode, they dive into the mesmerizing world crafted by director Steven Spielberg, unraveling the magic behind the groundbreaking special effects, gripping storyline, and unforgettable characters. From the brilliant performances by Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum to the visionary storytelling by writers Michael Crichton and David Koepp, they celebrate the enduring impact of this iconic dinosaur adventure. Prepare to relive the thrills and experience the awe-inspiring wonder of Jurassic Park once again.

Rob Lee welcomes Dominic Griffin on to the podcast to discuss the 1987's classic Robocop.

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Robocop Trailer

7.6/10 IMDb

90% Rotten Tomatoes

67% Metacritic

92% Google Users

Summary

In a violent, near-apocalyptic Detroit, evil corporation Omni Consumer Products wins a contract from the city government to privatize the police force. To test their crime-eradicating cyborgs, the company leads street cop Alex Murphy (Peter Weller) into an armed confrontation with crime lord Boddicker (Kurtwood Smith) so they can use his body to support their untested RoboCop prototype. But when RoboCop learns of the company's nefarious plans, he turns on his masters.

Release date:  July 17, 1987

Director:

Paul Verhoeven

Starring
Peter Weller
Nancy Allen
Daniel O'Herlihy
Ronny Cox
Kurtwood Smith
Miguel Ferrer

Writers
Edward Neumeier
Michael Miner

Rob Lee welcomes Isaiah Winters back on to the podcast to discuss the 2002 superhero film, Spider-Man.

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Spider-Man Trailer

7.4/10 IMDb

90% Rotten Tomatoes

73% Metacritic

82% Google Users

Summary

"Spider-Man" centers on student Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) who, after being bitten by a genetically-altered spider, gains superhuman strength and the spider-like ability to cling to any surface. He vows to use his abilities to fight crime, coming to understand the words of his beloved Uncle Ben: "With great power comes great responsibility."

Release date:  May 3, 2002

Director:

Sam Raimi

Starring 
Tobey Maguire
Willem Dafoe
Kirsten Dunst
James Franco
Cliff Robertson
Rosemary Harris