Ruined Childhoods
229 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 months ago - ★★★★ - 17 ratingsBrothers/cinephiles Dan and Jon explore Hollywood’s trend of reviving franchises with long-awaited sequels, prequels, spin-offs, remakes, and/or reboots. On each episode, they talk through a film or franchise and imagine how it could be revisited.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Revenge of the Nerds (1984)
September 01, 2020 08:35 - 1 hour - 112 MBLewis, Gilbert, and the gang address nerd persecution in the first of this series of films that lives on as a cult classic, but is certainly not without its problems. Followed by one theatrical sequel and two made-for-TV movies (the fourth features an all-star cast), Revenge of the Nerds has been on the back burner for a reboot for years - Dan & Jon weigh in. Next episode: The Party (1968) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Bad News Bears (1976)
August 25, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 98.4 MBThe Bad News Bears (1976) Everyone’s favorite fictional Little League team (and the inspiration for many others) has been featured in three films, a short-lived TV series, and a remake made for the PC era. Where do they go from here? Dan and Jon attempt to answer this question while discussing what made the 1976 original so special, how its sequels failed to recapture the magic, and why the 2005 remake didn’t quite work. Next episode: Revenge of the Nerds (1984) Hosted on Acast. See acas...
The Wizard (1989)
August 18, 2020 08:31 - 1 hour - 112 MBThe Wizard (1989) Our third episode “Child Star Month” features Dan and Jon’s hometown homie Jeff Rubin (The Jeff Rubin Jeff Rubin Show, College Humor, Buzzfeed), who joins them to reminisce about their childhoods and discuss The Wizard, also known as “the Nintendo movie” (which ironically does not focus much on Nintendo). They discuss how stars Fred Savage and Jenny Lewis have both transitioned from being child stars to successful adults with vibrant careers in directing, and music, but Ja...
Heavyweights (1995)
August 11, 2020 08:55 - 1 hour - 86 MBDan and Jon are joined by hometown homie Brian “Box” Brown, author of the new graphic novel, Child Star, to talk about the 1995 classic, Heavyweights. This film is the 2nd in our month-long series of films celebrating child stars, in honor of the release of Brown’s book. Heavyweights features child stars Kenan Thompson, Aaron Schwartz, and Shaun Weiss, all of whom we whole-heartedly salute! Brian and the guys go over their histories with summer camps and the moments in the film that really ...
Explorers (1985)
August 04, 2020 08:27 - 1 hour - 91.2 MBIt was director Joe Dante’s follow up to his blockbuster hit, GREMLINS, and the screen debuts of Ethan Hawke and River Phoenix, two young actors who would each leave his mark on cinema despite the quite different (and, in Phoenix’s case, tragic) trajectories their careers would take. So why exactly wasn’t this movie a huge hit 35 years ago? Dan and Jon dig in and explore its troubled path to the big screen, and what might’ve been if Dante’s complete vision had made it to the final cut. Also,...
The Client (1994) & A Time to Kill (1996)
July 28, 2020 08:24 - 2 hours - 131 MBIn the final, sweat-drenched episode of “JOEL-ly”, we take an extended look at two of Joel Schumacher’s biggest hits, both adaptations of novels by bestselling author John Grisham. Joining us is attorney Laura Richardson, who shares some stories from her days working in Memphis and tells us what the novels and films capture best about practicing law in the southeast USA. Also, Dan shares his tangled web of possible connections between Grisham’s legal novels (“The Grishamverse”), while Jon se...
Flatliners (1990)
July 21, 2020 08:57 - 1 hour - 96.4 MBFlatliners (1990) What happens when you bring yourself to death’s door and turn back right before crossing the threshold? Joel Schumacher and a cast of impressive young Hollywood talent explore the consequences of experimentation in this psychological thriller, which Dan and Jon discuss in this episode, the third in our month of episodes celebrating the legacy of the late director. Also, Jon shares his take on the 2017 remake, and Dan speculates about the Schumacher Batman movie that could’...
Falling Down (1993)
July 14, 2020 08:09 - 1 hour - 89.4 MBAnyone who has seen and remembers this film probably doesn’t need to be told how relevant it is to today’s world. In their analysis of Falling Down, Dan and Jon discuss how the themes of the film and the character of “D-Fens” (Michael Douglas) resonate today, 27 years after the film’s release. As this is also the second film of “JOEL-ly”, they also continue answering the question, “What are the signature elements in a Joel Schumacher film?”, bringing forth some unlikely connections between F...
The Lost Boys (1987)
July 07, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 78.1 MBMuch like a vampire that can never age, Dan and Jon can’t seem to leave 1987 behind! In the first installment of their month-long tribute to director Joel Schumacher, they explore the world of fictional beach town Santa Carla, the setting of his horror-comedy, The Lost Boys. Dan shares his distaste for certain sparkly teen vampires while Jon sings the praises of shirtless saxophonist extraordinaire, Tim Cappello. We’ve got the Coreys Haim and Feldman in their first film together, Kiefer Suth...
The Running Man (1987)
June 30, 2020 16:21 - 1 hour - 110 MBThe Running Man Take another trip back to 1987 with Dan, Jon, and special guest Laura Richardson, and join them as they discuss the past, present, and future of The Running Man. In discussing this adaptation of the Richard Bachmann novel, they note the many similarities between the 2017 of the film and the 2020 in which we are currently living, as well as the various theories related to the film, including all those involving Fleetwood Mac. Also: More on the cultural ripple effects of Holl...
Hollywood Shuffle (1987)
June 23, 2020 16:58 - 1 hour - 59.8 MB1987 saw the release of one of the few films of the decade to be written, produced, directed by and starring Black artists. Hollywood Shuffle, co-written by Keenan Ivory Wayans, is Robert Townsend’s satirical take on being a Black actor in Hollywood (who is not Eddie Murphy). How much has changed, if anything? Dan and Jon seek the answer to that question, as well as what role satire can play today in the ongoing struggle for equity in America, as they discuss this landmark film and the lasti...
Throw Momma from the Train (1987)
June 16, 2020 16:03 - 1 hour - 80.3 MBDan & Jon & Owen & Larry…& Momma On this episode, Dan and Jon imagine a new life for this remake of an adaptation. Next episode: Hollywood Shuffle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hiding Out (1987)
June 09, 2020 08:58 - 1 hour - 82.1 MBKeith Coogan joins Dan & Jon to talk about his 1987 cult classic, Hiding Out. Keith tells stories from the set and from other career highlights, such as Adventures in Babysitting and Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead. But first, Dan & Jon go over their thoughts and reflections on current world events and one of their plans for taking action. For more information, visit PODliceaCASTemy.com Next Episode: Throw Momma from the Train Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat...
Three Men and a Baby (1987)
June 03, 2020 08:29 - 1 hour - 61.7 MBWhat happens when 3 career bachelors are left in charge of a baby? They have to bust a group of heroin smugglers - that’s what! On this episode of the podcast, Dan and Jon go over Three Men and a Baby & Three Men and a Little Lady. And don’t worry, they talk about the ghost. Next episode: Hiding Out (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Exorcist (1973)
May 26, 2020 08:31 - 1 hour - 102 MBWe certainly hope that the curse isn’t true because this episode is all about The Exorcist. That’s right, we’re talkin’ Merrin. We’re talkin’ Karras. We’re talkin’ Regan. We’re talkin’ Pazuzu. Jon & Dan talk about the whole gang, including everyone from the entire Exorcist universe. But what else do you do with this well-covered property? Dan & Jon have some ideas. Next episode: Three Men and a Baby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Head (1968)
May 19, 2020 08:38 - 1 hour - 82.5 MBThe same year their family television show was taken off the year, The Monkees released a film that tanked in the theaters, but has found a cult following for all the right reasons. On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon draw parallels for the Monkees releasing Head to Young Sheldon releasing a statement about King Jong-Un. Next episode: The Exorcist (1973) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kindergarten Cop (1990)
May 12, 2020 08:48 - 1 hour - 58.2 MBIvan Reitman’s 1990 classic Kindergarten Cop may have gotten a straight-to-VOD sequel, but that doesn’t mean that Dan & Jon aren’t going to come up with some new fresh ways to revisit this Arnold Schwarzenegger gem. Big thanks to Millie De Chirico for suggesting this masterpiece. Next episode: Head (1968) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Cutting Edge (1992)
May 05, 2020 08:22 - 1 hour - 70.7 MBDan and Jon are joined by Millie De Chirico. Don’t be fooled by Millie’s clout as Programming Manager for Turner Classic Movies and Programmer for TCM Underground - she’s here to talk about figure skating classic, The Cutting Edge. This movie defies all of the odds and stands the test of time as possibly the best pairs figure skating film, next to its 2007 spiritual parody, Blades of Glory. And the month of May features films curated by Millie! Next episode: Kindergarten Cop (1990) Follow ...
Ishtar (1987)
April 28, 2020 08:39 - 59 minutes - 55.5 MBDan and Jon are joined by writer, critic, and Elaine May-enthusiast, Carrie Courogen to celebrate the classically misunderstood Ishtar. Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty get into some dangerous business as Chuck Clarke and Lyle Rogers - two wannabe musicians who find themselves in a mixup with the CIA and a group of radical communists who want to overthrow a tyrant. Dan, Jon, and Carrie talk about how this movie is a hidden gem and how it became a dark mark on the career of writer/director, E...
The Long Goodbye (1973)
April 21, 2020 08:18 - 1 hour - 90.4 MBIt's 1973 in Los Angeles, California. Private Investigator, Philip Marlow is trying to find out who killed his friend and find his cat. 47 years later, two ding-a-lings with microphones and an internet connection try to find a way to bring back Marlow in a way that's relevant to a modern-day audience. Next episode: Ishtar (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Major League (1989)
April 14, 2020 08:59 - 1 hour - 93.1 MBOn this episode, Dan and Jon take it back to 1989 and then 1994 to a lesser extent, and then 1998 to an even lesser extent to go over the Major League series. Beyond that, they go over their own personal experiences with baseball fandom, including Dan’s brief stint as a Steve Garvey 1987 Donruss baseball card impersonator. But most importantly, Dan and Jon celebrate the genius of Bob Uecker. Next episode: The Long Goodbye (1973) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Seconds (1966)
April 07, 2020 09:04 - 54 minutes - 51.2 MBWhen Hollywood’s rom-com leading man Rock Hudson wanted to take on an acting challenge that would make people take him seriously as an actor, he paired up with The Manchurian Candidate director John Frankenheimer and made Seconds, about a middle-aged man who chooses to be “rebooted” as a younger man with a different life. The film was booed right out of Cannes and caused audience members to become physically ill, but has since become a cult classic that is now considered brilliantly prescien...
The Monster Squad (1987)
March 24, 2020 08:58 - 1 hour - 71.5 MBFew movies have gone from being box office failures to beloved classics to the extent that The Monster Squad has over the last 30 years. Dan and Jon may not have seen it in the theater (though Dan remembers seeing the poster), but like others, they’ve become passionate fans after repeated viewings on HBO and VHS. Sequels and remakes have always been rumored, but have yet to come to fruition. Join Dan and Jon as they discuss the possibilities and potential in multiple approaches to reviving t...
Tootsie (1982)
March 17, 2020 08:44 - 1 hour - 79 MBWhether you love it or hate it, Tootsie is an iconic film depicting the struggles of both a temperamental male actor and women in the workplace. Is there a place for Dorothy Michaels in the future of cinema? Is her story really over? Dan & Jon lay out the history of the film and their ideas for a possible resurrection of the property. Next episode: The Monster Squad (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What Women Want (2000)
March 10, 2020 08:27 - 1 hour - 69.9 MBWhat Women Want (2000) What are the potentials and pitfalls of a movie in which a misogynistic advertising executive gains the power to hear women’s thoughts? Dan and Jon brave the waters of Mel Gibson’s filmography to revisit the Nancy Meyers comedy, which featured Gibson in his pre-drunk racist/sexist breakdown days playing Nick Marshall, the aforementioned ad exec. In doing so, they debate the viability of the concept and potential variations that could be successful today, including the...
Cocoon (1985)
March 03, 2020 10:04 - 1 hour - 60.8 MBDan & Jon break into a nearby pool and dive into 1985’s Cocoon. Ron Howard’s sci-fi comedy classic is a prime example of an 80s alien movie that totally holds up, but Dan and Jon imagine what it might be like with a life in the 21st century. Next episode: What Women Want (2000) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pee-wee Herman (1980 - )
February 25, 2020 09:36 - 1 hour - 108 MBSpecial Guest: SCOTT WIENER On this episode, Dan and Jon are in Austin, Texas with their brother Scott to talk about the character that shaped their lives (as well as many others), Pee-wee Herman (Paul Reubens). From Pee-wee’s Big Adventure to Pee-wee’s Playhouse to Big Top Pee-wee to Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, just about everything is covered - including his appearances in Cheech and Chong’s Next Movie and Back to the Beach. Special thanks to French Fry Phil for the clip that you hear at the ...
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)
February 17, 2020 18:57 - 56 minutes - 65.2 MBMickey Mouse & Bugs Bunny? Daffy Duck & Donald Duck? Eddie Valiant & Roger Rabbit?! On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan & Jon discuss the 1988 classic animation-meets-live-action romp, Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Have there been attempts to resurrect the property in the past? Are there future plans? Dan and Jon give an overview and share their ideas on expanding the Roger Rabbitverse. Next episode: Pee-wee Herman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Indiana Jones (1981 - )
February 11, 2020 09:13 - 1 hour - 106 MBNo time for love, Starfighters! On this episode, Dan & Jon give an overview of the ongoing legacy of Indiana Jones and give their ideas on ways the franchise can move forward in a way that won’t ruin any childhoods. Next episode: Who Framed Roger Rabbit A Week of Kindness and the Last Crusade Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Easy Rider (1969)
February 04, 2020 09:34 - 1 hour - 87.5 MBDan & Jon hit the road and explore this true classic in counter-culture cinema. But first, Dan goes over some news from upcoming sequels/remakes. Next episode: The world of Indiana Jones Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Rocketeer (1991)
January 28, 2020 09:00 - 1 hour - 93.2 MBDan & Jon soar through their first year of Ruined Childhoods like Cliff Secord (AKA The Rocketeer) soars over Hollywoodland, California. They also ruminate on their recent experiences seeing Bad Boys for Life and Ghostbusters with orchestral accompaniment. Next episode: Easy Rider (1969) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tremors (1990)
January 21, 2020 09:03 - 1 hour - 78 MBDan and Jon dig in to one of the more unlikely franchises in cinema, which began with the release of the original Tremors 30 years ago this month, and has since spawned sequels, a prequel, and two (failed) TV series. After all the different directions in which this franchise has already gone, is there anything they could possibly suggest that hasn’t already been tried? Listen in and see what they have in mind for the future of the Graboids, Shriekers, Assblasters, and other members of the su...
School Ties (1992)
January 14, 2020 09:30 - 1 hour - 65.9 MBSchool Ties might not be a classic movie for most, but it sure is for Dan & Jon. They share their thoughts and memories about this Brendan Fraser drama as they celebrate the early careers of Brendan, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and many other future stars. COWARDS!!!!! Next Episode: Tremors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jekyll & Hyde (1886 - ?)
January 07, 2020 09:50 - 1 hour - 93.1 MBWhen Robert Louis Stevenson wrote The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, he knew that in 2020, two ding-a-lings would celebrate its legacy and discuss ideas to further its life on something called a podcast. They talk about the films, tv movies, spoofs, stage productions, variations, and even theme restaurants based on the original classic texts. Oh, and DAN’S BLOG! Next episode: School Ties (1992) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Blue Heaven (1990)
December 31, 2019 09:45 - 1 hour - 94.1 MBYou wanna hear some Goodfellas? Wait until you hear Dan & Jon gab about My Blue Heaven! Before they share their ideas about a new life after the movie, Dan recalls the first time they both saw the film. Next Episode: Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Warriors (1979)
December 21, 2019 15:51 - 1 hour - 71 MBThe Warriors (1979) “Come out to play-ay” with Dan, Jon, and The Warriors! Journey with them from the north Bronx to Coney Island as they follow The Warriors’ odyssey through a quasi-futuristic New York City even grittier than the actual NYC of the late 1970’s, which was already pretty darn gritty. Also: the Ruined Childhoods “End of the Decade” survey; new trailers for Ghostbusters: Afterlife and the Top Gun franchise. *NOTE: Dan incorrectly credits The Romantics with writing “I Don’t Wan...
The Graduate (1967)
December 10, 2019 09:30 - 1 hour - 82.4 MBThe Graduate (1967) For this episode, Dan and Jon revisit a classic, and they have a lot to say about it. While providing background about the film and the novel on which it was based, they examine how the property has been referenced and resurrected throughout time, from the 2002 Broadway adaptation (which Dan and Jon saw during its run) to the Brad Pitt/Edward Norton commentary track on the Fight Club DVD. Also: High praise for some recent theatrical releases, including Parasite and Froze...
The Last Boy Scout (1991)
December 03, 2019 09:30 - 59 minutes - 67.8 MBThis week, Dan and Jon venture back into the neo-noir, Christmastime action-comedy world of Shane Black. This time, it’s director Tony Scott pairing up Bruce Willis (fresh off the failure of Hudson Hawk) and Damon Wayans (hot off the success of In Living Color) to take on crime and corruption in the NFL. The movie not only boasts one of Halle Berry’s earliest film roles, but also shares several notable connections to the following year’s Lorenzo’s Oil. Also: Dan reminisces about his Billy B...
The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)
November 26, 2019 09:47 - 1 hour - 76.5 MBBuckle up, motherf#ckers! On this episode of Ruined Childhoods, Jon and Dan debate the afterlife for The Long Kiss Goodnight. Does Renny Harlin have a chance for a comeback? Listen and find out what Dan & Jon think! Next episode: The Last Boy Scout Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Midnight Run (1988)
November 19, 2019 09:57 - 53 minutes - 61.2 MBMidnight Run (1988) On this, the monumental 40th episode of Ruined Childhoods, Dan and Jon step back into the career of filmmaker Martin Brest, this time to examine the 1988 action-comedy Midnight Run. Join them as they revisit the plot and some of the many highlights of the film as they determine what potential there is (if any) for sequels, prequels, remakes, or reboots. Also, Dan and Jon share their reviews of Dolemite is My Name, Dan shares some reflections following the closing of his ...
Beverly Hills Cop (1984 - ?)
November 12, 2019 09:55 - 1 hour - 109 MBWhat happens when a cop from Detroit with a loose interpretation of the rules has to play nice with the by-the-book Beverly Hills Police Department? Dan and Jon not only tell you exactly what happens, but they also weigh in on what could happen in the future. Next episode: Midnight Run (1988) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Demolition Man (1993)
November 05, 2019 09:00 - 1 hour - 76.5 MBJoin Dan and Jon as they look back at the early-90’s Stallone/Snipes action flick Demolition Man and debate how well it has aged in the last 26 years. Jon shares his qualms with the movie, including its title, and Dan speculates as to why he’s not as troubled by these flaws. Also, Dan shares his reactions to the first episode of HBO’s Watchmen series (after dealing with some lozenge-related audio issues). Next Episode: Beverly Hills Cop (1984, 1987, 1994) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pr...
A Few Good Men ( 1992)
October 29, 2019 08:00 - 1 hour - 80.6 MBTom Cruise Month comes to a close with one of his most iconic films from the 90s — A Few Good Men. Dan talks about his connections with this property and Jon envisions a new life for military courtroom dramas. Next episode: Demolition Man Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Legend (1985)
October 22, 2019 08:00 - 59 minutes - 68.3 MBWe’re well into Tom Cruise Month (because we decided it’s Tom Cruise Month) and Dan & Jon are talking about the 1985 cult classic, Legend. Does this fantasy flop deserve to see the light of day or does it remain in the darkness? Next episode: A Few Good Men Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Risky Business (1983)
October 15, 2019 08:00 - 1 hour - 56.8 MBTOM CRUISE MONTH CONTINUES! On this episode, Dan and Jon try their hardest to come up with a way to bring Risky Business into the modern age, but not before checking in on some news that sends Dan into a Little Shop of Horrors spiral. Next episode: Legend (1985) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rain Man (1988)
October 08, 2019 07:01 - 1 hour - 91 MBOn this episode of Ruined Childhoods, it’s truly a tale of two brothers. Dan and Jon talk about America’s OTHER favorite set of siblings, Charlie and Raymond AKA the boys of Rain Man. Dan and Jon also talk about their favorite Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman movies & performances. Oh, and don’t worry — they also parallel Rain Man with Twins. Next episode: Risky Business (1983) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Princess Bride (1987)
October 01, 2019 08:00 - 1 hour - 81.2 MBThe Princess Bride (1987) Journey back to 1987 Chicago, where a sick young boy is unexpectedly enchanted by a fairy tale read to him by his grandfather… and 2019 Seattle and Portland, where Dan and Jon revisited this beloved classic amid new rumors of a remake, and examine what makes this film so special to people. Dan and Jon discuss their qualms with the film, while Dan somehow connects its plot to George W. Bush and 9/11. Jon also shares his ideas for ways to expand the Princess Bride un...
Cabaret (1972)
September 24, 2019 23:32 - 58 minutes - 66.9 MBFor this episode, Dan and Jon enjoyed their very first viewings of Bob Fosse’s Academy Award-winning film of the musical Cabaret. Dan shares his memories of the 1998 Broadway revival, and Jon proposes some surprising ideas for a remake. Next week: The Princess Bride (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Innerspace (1987)
September 17, 2019 09:00 - 1 hour - 73.7 MBThis week’s pod centers around another pod - the miniaturization pod of Joe Dante’s Innerspace. Dan reminisces about how the VHS release of Innerspace changed his world, and Jon leads a nostalgic tribute to the now-closed Cranford Theater. Did they deem Innerspace worthy of a sequel, prequel, remake, or reboot? Listen to find out… Next episode: Cabaret (1972) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Back to School (1986)
September 10, 2019 09:00 - 55 minutes - 63.3 MBDan and Jon are back to school - seriously! This episode is recorded in a Seattle High School’s actual classroom, and they’re there to talk about Back to School! RIP Rialto Theater Next episode: Innerspace (1987) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.