The Literary License Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to the Literary License Podcast's "Book to Screen" episode for June! This month, we delve into Ray Bradbury's dark fantasy classic, Something Wicked This Way Comes, and its 1983 Disney film adaptation. Our hosts, Keith Chawgo, Leandro Ghezzi and Vickie Rae are here to explore the eerie allure of Bradbury's tale and the cinematic magic (and challenges) of bringing it to the screen.

Join us as we discuss the novel's poetic prose, its themes of fear, aging, and the battle between good and evil, and how these elements were translated into film. We'll also touch on the movie's production woes, including uncredited script rewrites, extensive reshoots, and the impact of Disney's editing decisions.

In addition to our main discussion, you'll hear our hosts share personal updates, movie recommendations, and reflections on other related works. If you're a fan of Bradbury's work, dark fantasy, or simply love a good book-to-film adaptation story, this episode is not to be missed!

Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia as we uncover the mysteries and magic of Something Wicked This Way Comes.

Join the hosts of the Literary License Podcast as they explore the original and remake of a heartwarming animal adventure. In this episode, Joe Randazzo, John Wilson, Vicki Rae, and Keith Chawgo delve into The Incredible Journey (1963) and its remake, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993).

The hosts discuss the differences between the two films, focusing on the more documentary-style approach of the original versus the comedic, voice-acted remake. Special attention is given to the voice talents of Michael J. Fox, Sally Fields, and Don Amici, and how their performances impact the overall feel of the remake.

Expect insights into the filming techniques, the use of animals, and the cultural impact of both films. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney adventures or enjoy nostalgic 90s family films, this episode promises an engaging journey through the world of these beloved animal tales.

In this episode of Literary License Podcast, join us as we delve into the captivating world of both the 1977 and 2016 renditions of the Pete’s Dragon films. Co-hosted by Vicki Ray and Joe Randazzo, we deliver wittily nuanced discussions about various acclaimed movie productions as well as the dynamics of fashion trends.

Our conversation open up with highlighting the unique attributes of the Pete’s Dragon films, analyzing their differences, and similarities. The discourse then progresses into issues such as AMC Theater's platinum membership offer, the acclaimed A24 films, the King Kong Godzilla movies, and an insider's look at the pre-code movies covered in 'The Spoiler Room'. Packed with fascinating insights and thoughtful analyses, we guarantee a session filled with enlightening and entertaining discussions on the cinematic world from the perspective of both a casual moviegoer and a die-hard cinephile.

In the second part of the episode, we navigate personal narratives exploring the current life situations and the longing for pre-pandemic normalcy. We further delve into a spectrum of films, from 'The Beekeeper' starring Jason Statham to the intriguing series, 'Fallout'. We conclude this segment with an engaging discourse about cinema censorship and the evolution of cinematic storytelling.

Continuing further, we reflect on popular culture and its reflection on society, serial killers, anti-heroes, and morality of beloved characters. Our discussion covers iconic sitcoms like "I Love Lucy" to "Good Times" while also analyzing disturbing narratives of Hollywood's darker side.

Heading into the final segment, we discuss the pressures of Hollywood with a special focus on childhood stars like Macaulay Culkin, Amanda Bynes, and Judy Garland. We unravel the unseen burden of fame within the industry, scrutinizing the challenging practices around film festivals and award ceremonies. Our episode ends with an in-depth review and defense of the movie, ‘Pete's Dragon’.

Join us in this roller-coaster analysis down memory lane, filled with reflections, discussions, and riveting conversations on movies, celebrities, fashion, and societal norms. Get ready for a cinematic exploration like none other!

In this enthralling episode of the Literary License Podcast, join host Joe Randazzo and guests as they navigate the fascinating journey from classic literary anthologies to their modern interpretations in film and TV. Get in-depth insights into two iconic anthology films 'Dr. Terror's House of Horrors' and 'Torture Garden', exploring their distinctive narrative techniques and enduring influence.

Apart from these films, our hosts share personal anecdotes and experiences around popular culture, home-cooked food, and Italian cuisine. They also delve into the enriching cinematic world, discussing movies old and new, memorable movie outings, and the indelible impact of stars like Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra.

The conversation extends to terrifying tales of horror, as the hosts dissect stories set in different locations, like a crypt, a train, and a carnival. Uncover the chilling narratives of 'The Voodoo', 'The Disembodied Hand', and 'The Creeping Vine'.

Finally, immerse yourself in an insightful analysis of the legacy left by Amicus and Hammer Films, particularly how their works have permanently shaped the horror genre. Conclude your journey with a careful dissection of 'Torture Garden', weighing the performances, the script, and the menacing aura the film exudes.

Tune into this literary pilgrimage that weaves between the world of horror storytelling, film history, and film criticism. It offers you a multi-faceted glimpse into film artistry and legacy, guaranteed to entertain and educate in equal measures.

Join us in a thrilling expedition to 1965-1967, as we dive into BBC's iconic sci-fi series - Doctor Who. We present a detailed review of the revered episode 'The Dalek Invasion of Earth, 2150 AD,' an enthralling piece of cinema that withstands the test of

time. In this episode, we unpack the gripping story where Earth faces a dystopian future, reigned by merciless Daleks and humanity transformed into Robo-men. Amid the chaotic world stands our heroes led by legendary Peter Cushing, battling off the metal monsters.

Not only does this vintage film present spellbinding performances, it is a delightful blend of comedy, action, and emotion that keeps viewers riveted. The narration enhances the cinematic experience by creating moments of introspection, adding an unexpected touch of humor and showing creativity in design and special effects. The storytelling technique used ensures a captivating experience for Doctor Who fans, from beginning till end.

As part of our review, we also cover the evolution of early Doctor Who films, highlighting how the Amicus Films shaped the franchise. We assess the financial growth of the company and its impact on the production quality, transitioning from low-budget movies to striking partnerships with big names in the industry. We delve into the influence of Bernard Cribbins' character and Peter Cushing's portrayal of the doctor, and discuss the fluctuating comedy element throughout the series.

Explore trivia about iconic movies, the dynamic performances of Peter Cushing, Andrew Keir and more. Learn fun facts about production impromptu, last-minute script changes, and on-set accidents that add an intriguing layer to the conversation. Additionally, we take a look at our panellists' upcoming projects, making this episode a delightful mix of vintage cinema and contemporary works. This Podcast episode, filled with stimulating discussions and insightful critiques, is a must-listen for all cinema lovers!

Join the captivating journey with the Literary License Podcast as we explore vintage and modern films, and delve into meaty discussions about social media's impacting modern society. This season 7 retrospective takes us through family film classics, "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" and "Enchanted," with our humorous hosts, Vicki Rae, Keith Chawgo and John Wilson.

From gleaning insights on popular games to discussing independent films and popular TV series, this episode traverses a variety of topics. Central to the discussion is the critique of social media obsessions and the undeniable charms of classics like "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" and "Enchanted." Take part in this dialogue that balances the exciting and the thought-provoking.

Our discourse on "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" unravels its unique blend of magic, war, and self-discovery, set apart from other Disney productions. We follow the enchanting journey of novice witch Miss Eglantine Price and the lovable con man, Professor Emilius Brown, highlighting significant moments of this live-action and animation production that won the Academy Awards for Best Special Visual Effects.

Journey further into Disney's magical realms as we explore "Enchanted" and its sequel "Disenchanted." Enjoy anecdotes and insights into this brilliant mix of real-world practicality and fairy-tale sweetness. The brilliant star-studded performance, toe-dipping bits into the world of fairy-tales, and shared laughter make this episode an enjoyable ride for every movie lover.

The analysis doesn't stop there. Dive into the magic of "Princess Diaries" and "Enchanted," discussing their musical scores, animation style, and lasting impact. Unwrap these influential tales of princesses and the fantasized version of New York while acknowledging Disney's self-awareness balancing charm and humour.

Tune in as we light-heartedly ponder film critiques, explore the paradox of commercial breaks, and appreciate cinema's enchanting magic. An episode designed for those who appreciate being carried away into whimsical tales and hearty discussions about the digital age's challenges and opportunities.

Opening Credits– Once Upon Theme by Dan Hughes Music Poduction.  Copyright 2024 LLPodcast

Closing Credits: Age of Not Believing by Angela Lansbury.  Taken from the album Bedknobs and Broomsticks Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright 1971 Walt Disney Records

Section Breaks:  Music from Enchanted Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Music by Alan Menken.  Copyright 2007 Walt Disney Records

​

Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

For Batman enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados, join us in our retrospective journey into Batman- the animated series, other popular TV shows, and some cinematic favourites. Get to know our animated panel of experts – Sean Steffen, Joe Randazzo, Vicky Rae, and our host, Keith Chawgo, as they reveal their personal and professional experiences and their taste in movies. Delve into our extensive discussions on films, acting performances, and influential career positioning films. With lively debates, fascinating movie recommendations, and healthy doses of humour and sarcasm, this promising episode promises not just an interesting listen but a joyful ride through your favourite films and TV shows.

As we shift gears, our conversation lightens as we discuss the timeless beauty of black women and then dives into a shared appreciation for the film, "Bullet." From films recently screened in the local theatre to others including "Ring of Fire 2," "Psycho Cop," and the intriguing series "Twin Peaks," we discuss everything that enkindles our interest with enthusiasm and thorough analysis. Join us as we examine everything from thrilling chase scenes to emotional dialogues, painting a vivid cinematic world.

Analysing Popular TV Series: Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and Shogun.  

Engage with us in a free-flowing discussion on reactions and thoughts on some of the trending TV series. The conversation evolves as we delve into performances, visual aesthetics, storyline intricacies, and the creative decisions driving narratives in series such as Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and the recently released series of Shogun. Navigate through this enlightening episode as we analyse characters, critique story strengths and weaknesses across different seasons, and conjecture how real-world events such as the Gulf War influenced certain shows.

Exploring Vintage Cinema Classics & Batman's Animated Series

In this episode, we pay homage to vintage cinema classics and Batman's animated series. Our discussion enlightens the contributions of William Castle, the American film director, and his timeless productions, including "Macabre," "House on Haunted Hill," and "The Tingler." We meticulously discuss the cinematic world of Batman's animated series, shedding light on key characters, intriguing plots involving The Clock King and Catwoman, and brilliant presentation techniques.

Universe of Superheroes: Batman, Catwoman, Nightwing, and Spider-Man

Dive into the thrilling universe of superheroes, exploring their influence on cinema and broader popular culture. Listen to our engaging debate on characters such as Batman, Catwoman, the Gotham-resident Nightwing, and Marvel's Spider-Man, dissecting their different portrayals and analysing their appeals. The episode offers an immersive experience into the captivating world of iconic superheroes and would appeal especially to DC and Marvel universe enthusiasts.

Dissecting DC and Marvel: Comic Books, Films, TV Shows, and Influence

In this captivating episode, get engrossed in our deliberation on DC and Marvel's comic books, films, television shows, and how they influence each other. Join the discussions about two of the largest comic book empires, their adaptations, their distinctive fan bases, and the future of comic-based cinematic experiences.

Filmmaking & the Obsession with Trends: Industry Concerns and Critiques

In this gripping and honest discussion, we delve into grave concerns within the film industry today. Discussing issues like the rise of trend-driven filmmaking, the overdose of sequels, the evolution of Marvel and Star Wars' universes along with critiques of popular TV series such as The Mandalorian and Andor, this episode discusses how an overdose of trends can harm the film and TV industry's creativity and quality.

Exploring Batman's Animated Series: From Iconic Episodes to Recent Releases

In this episode, we embark on a journey through Batman's animated series, reviewing memorable moments, assessing nostalgic classics like Clerks 3, and discussing less favorable moments from recent releases. Join us as we delve into the layers of these iconic episodes, sharing insightful reviews, critiques and unravel the intriguing stories within stories in the Batman universe.

A Critique of 'Baby Doll' from Batman: The Problem of Fading Stardom

In this episode, we discuss the surprisingly poignant episode 'Baby Doll' from Batman's classic series. Join our conversation as we explore the struggles of child stars when their limelight dims prematurely. A deep dive into 'Baby Doll' offers a remarkable blend of absurdity, poignancy, and the dark realities of child stardom. 

Opening Credits– Adventures of Batman and Robin The  - Animated Series by Shirley Walker.  Copyright 2008 Warner Records. All rights reserved

Closing Credits: Baby Doll by Ari Abdul.  Taken from the album Fallen Angel.  Copyright 2022 Ari Abdul

Section Breaks:  Music from the Batman: The Animated Series.  Music by Shirley Walker.  Copyright 2008 Warner Records

​

Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to an all-new episode of the Literary License Podcast, where we bridge the gap between literature and its screen adaptations. Join us and our special guest, Leandro Gazi, as we unwrap our life experiences, delve into the intriguing world of 'Who Censored Roger Rabbit?' novel by Gary Wolf and its iconic movie adaptation 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'.

We ecstatically dig deeper into the book’s thought-provoking narrative and how it subtly interlaces political innuendos. We uncover the creative vision of Leandro and how the distinctive charm of the movie adaptation adds to the Roger Rabbit legacy. Discover the plot twists and suspenseful allegory, leading us through a maze of mysteries and unanticipated denouements in the narrative.

We then traverse the exquisite realm of 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit', directed by the genius Robert Zemeckis. Released in 1988, it was a spectacular blend of live-action and animation, earning global recognition for its visual effects, performances, and humor. We feature a detailed comparison between the original book and the film adaptation, leading to an insightful view of the whole creation process.

Our discussion takes you back to the unforgettable scenes, such as the magnetic performance of Jessica Rabbit and Eddie Valiant's thrilling adventures in Toontown. We reveal the magic behind how this film jump-started the Disney Renaissance, setting a benchmark for animation.

Lastly, ride with us on a captivating journey into the world of animation film-making. We present a critique on the process of integrating classical characters into unrelated plots, the resulting repetitiveness, and how these techniques trick the viewer's eye to create visual masterpieces. Join us as we navigate the interesting narrative loops and special effects that mesmerize audiences through decades.

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits: Why Don’t You Do Right by Benny Goodman and Peggy Lee.  Copyright 1942 Columbia Records

Section Breaks:  Soundtrack Selections from the Original Motion Soundtrack Who Framed Roger Rabbit.  Music by Alan Silverstri.  Copyright 1988 Disney Records.

​

Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

Welcome to another riveting episode of the Literary License Podcast, a retrospective to explore the fascinating world of anthology films. From the classic works of Edgar Allan Poe and H.P. Lovecraft to the cinematic masterpieces of the 1930s, anthologies have been an integral part of storytelling. This episode dives into "Night Gallery" from 1969 and the "Twilight Zone Movie" from 1983.

This discussion-rich episode also features our host's favorite "What The F***" movies, discussing the shock factors, character development, and storytelling aspects of cult classics like "I Spit on Your Grave," "Humanoids from the Deep," and the provocative "Serbian Film". This conversation is a deep dive into the realm of anthologies with reflections on iconic films. Perfect for movie buffs or anyone looking for intriguing conversation about classic films.

Listen as the hosts recount their unforgettable encounter with film director, Frank Henenlotter at a social event a few years ago. They discuss Henenlotter's unconventional filmmaking style and his unique work such as the Basket Case Trilogy. Also covered are insights into the complexities of the filmmaking business and the savvy filmmakers who played the studio system to their advantage.

Contemplate the exploration of supernatural aspects, embodied by the acclaimed film, "Night Gallery." The hosts discuss how paintings embody powerful narratives of terror and the unknown, and add their personal experiences and interpretations, making this discussion a vibrant tapestry of genres.

Engage in a comprehensive look at the history and ongoing influence of classic films and the era of afternoon television, with a deep dive into the 1930s, 40s, and early 50s classic cinema. Join us as we trace the evolution of afternoon television and witness the power of television, strategically repurposing classic movies.

Dive deep into the world of one of the most iconic characters in television history with 'Behind The Scenes of Doctor Who: The Tom Baker Years - An Interview with Ian Brittan-Hull.' This episode from the Literary License Podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the past, providing intriguing insights into the classic BBC science fiction series Doctor Who.

Our host, Ramona Schnitger, engages in a captivating discussion with special guest, Ian Brittan-Hull, known for his role as Tom Baker's double on the show. Brittan-Hull shares his unforgettable experiences from his early fan days to the behind-the-scenes life as an integral part of the series. He brings to life his meetings with Tom Baker's publicity agent, his time in newspapers alongside Baker and his eventual transition into embodying the character at various public events.

Throughout the episode, Brittan-Hull's accounts of working closely with Baker shed light on the human aspects of the legendary actor. He also answers listener queries about his performances, comparisons with other stuntmen, and his perspective on the role of stuntmen in the series. Within this nostalgic and intriguing listen, he candidly shares his journey of faithfully bringing Doctor Who out from the screens and into public spaces.

The episode does not end there. Brittan-Hull then talks about his present ventures and upcoming projects, from his theater company AMA Theatre to his latest passion project, Pirates. His fascinating narratives of his creative journey make this podcast episode compelling for Doctor Who fans and general audiences alike.