Bukowski's Drunken Streets: Marco Ferreri's Tales of Ordinary Madness

Continuing our exploration of The City of Angels, Mr. Chavez & I dive into the great Los Angeles novelist, short story writer, poet, and "Dirty Old Man" Henry Charles Bukowski (1920 - 1994). Bukowski holds a special place in my heart and memories; Beginning with Notes of a Dirty Old Man and continuing through novels (Women, Ham on Rye), a screenplay (Barfly), and numerous poetry collections (War All the Time: Poems 1981-1984, Septuagenerian Stew: Stories and Poems, The Last Night of the Earth Poems), I have been a fan of Bukowski's work for the better part of three and a half decades. Bukowski's writings depict Los Angeles in a way that few wrtiers are able to match. This week we look at "Bukowski's Los Angeles" as depicted in Marco Ferreri's 1981 adaptation of the short story collection, Erections, Ejaculations, Exhibitions, and General Tales of Ordinary Madness as Tales of Ordinary Madness featuring Ben Gazarra as Bukowski's alter ego, Henry Chinaski (in the film Charles Serking). A not altogether successful adaptation of Bukowski's work, there is still a great deal to discuss in the failure of Ferreri to capture Bukowski's words, actions, life, and city. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Down These Dark Streets: James Ellroy - Feast of Death

Continuing our travels through Los Angeles, Mr. Chavez & I focus our discussion on the great LA Crime (Historical Crime) Novelist, James Ellroy. Famous for his LA Quartet - including The Black Dahlia, L.A. Confidential, The Big Nowhere, and White Jazz, as well as the autobiographical My Dark Places, Ellroy has written some of the most celebrated and polariizing Los Angeles based novels of the last century. His examination of the L.A. Police Department, criminals, murders, and (fictionalized) historical characters is unlike anything else in modern day fiction. It's a thrill to sit down and discuss this bold, brazen, and difficult writer. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can still be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Another Lost Angel: Paul Schrader's Hardcore

This week we continue our descent into Ibrahim Chavez's Los Angeles with a look at Taxi Driver screenwriter, Paul Schrader's blunt and brutal examination of the Los Angeles/San Diego/San Francisco sex trade of the late 1970s. Schrader's upbringing in a strict Calvinist environment would shape his social outlook and influence his abandonment of religion and drive towards sexual and cultural freedoms. Much like his screenplay for Taxi Driver, Schrader's Hardcore would take inspiration from John Ford's classic The Searchers, replacing the racism of that film with a difficult and controversial look at the world of pornography and the restrictive worlds that feed into it. Featuring George C. Scott in a powerful - at times sad and other times unlikable - performance of a man searching for his lost (runaway?) daughter, Season Hubley as a sex worker  he employs to lead him into this foreign world, and Peter Boyle as a smarmy, degenerate and exceptionally effective private detective. Schrader's sophomore directorial effort is a wondrous relic of California in the 1970s. Take a listen and give the film a watch. You can always reach us at gondoramos@yahoo.com. We look forward to hearing from you. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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At Night and From a Distance: Thom Andersen's Los Angeles Plays Itself

We're starting the month of December (and ending 2023) with a dive into Los Angeles in a month of programming curated by our own Ibrahim Chavez. Our first episode of December is a look at film critic and teacher, Thom Andersen's "video essay" Los Angeles Plays Itself (2003). A legend in the world of documentary filmmaking, Andersen's film was seen sporadically in screenings set up by Andersen, showings at the American Cinematheque in Los Angeles (Hollywood), and filesharings through film lovers. In 2014 the film film was finally released on DVD through Cinema Guild and can also be seen (for free) on YouTube. 

Examining the city of Los Angeles in three distinctive categories (Background/Character/Subject), Andersen's film is a love letter to the city and cinema itself. Questions are asked and Answers are forwarded. Take a listen and see if you agree with our thoughts on this wonderfully entertaining look at one of the world's great cities. You can reach us at gondoramos@yahoo.com to give us your thoughts.

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Beyond Laughter: Richard Pryor - Live in Concert & Live on the Sunset Strip 

This week Mr. Chavez & I close out November with a look at - arguably - the greatest stand-up comic the craft has ever produced, Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor, Sr. I have been an admirer of Mr. Pryor for nearly five decades now and am unable to remember a time when I was not aware and was not in total awe of him. On this episode, Ibrahim & I look at the legacy of this great artist as well as the brilliance in both his material, delivery, and stage presence. We look at his two greatest artistic achievements, 1979s Richard Pryor: Live in Concert  and 1982s Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip. There is a whole lot to break down and we give it our all. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Ransom: Akira Kurosawa's High & Low

There are no shortage of names that define our undersrtanding and foster our enjoyment of Cinema. Scorsese, Fellini, Bergman, Leone, Eisenstein, Spielberg, Chaplin, Keaton, Lumet, Ford, Hawks . . . the list could run for pages (and fortunately for us it does). There is a name that cannot be left off . . . Best known for his Jidaigeki - Historical (Action) Dramas - including Seven Samurai, Yojimbo, Rashomon, Throne of Blood, and The Hidden Fortress (to name a few), Kurosawa was a master at the modern drama, as well. Ikiru, The Bad Sleep Well, Drunken Angel, Stray Dog are a few of his modern explorations of Japanese life after the war. A masterpiece (rarely discussed and criminally underseen) is 1963's High & Low. Adapted from Ed McBain's 87th Precinct series of crime novels, High & Low is a beautiflly nuanced and brilliantly tension-guided police procedural. Re-teaming in their fifteenth (of sixteen) collaborations, Kurosawa and Toshiro Mifune come together to tell one of the greatest films in both mens' filmographies. This is an incredible film that Mr. Chavez and I are thrilled to bring to you. Take a listen and let us introduce you (or remind you if you are already familiar with) this wonderul film. 

Let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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When a Promise Meant Something: Sean Penn's The Pledge 

November is the month of Rick Ramos and this week we continue - following Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon and Walter Hill's Hard Times - with a look at Sean Penn's 2001 The Pledge. Featuring an underrated (and I would argue tragically underseen) Jack Nicholson performance that sidesteps all of the Nicholson tropes that we have become used to, Nicholson portrays Jerry Black, a police detective on the eve of his retirement who leaves his retirement party to investigate a young girl's rape and murder. He is quickly sucked into the horror of the crime and finds himself obsessed with discovering the truth and bringing the killer to justice. Penn's film takes all of the labored and tired tropes that have become standard for the genre and manipulates them in ways that make for a fresh directorial take. Featuring an all-star cast (that never screams of stunt casting) including: Sam Shepard, Helen Mirren, Aaron Eckhart, Patricia Clarkson, Michael O'Keefe, Vanessa Redgrave, Robin Wright Penn, Harry Dean Stanton, Benicio del Toro, Tom Noonan, and (an incredible) Mickey Rourke, the 2001 film is one that truly speaks to Penn's power and gifts behind the camera. Take a listen and let us know what you think. You can reach us at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Oil & Blood: Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon

Take a listen as Mr. Chavez & I kick off the month of November with a series of films curated by your host and producer, Rick Ramos. We begin with a discussion of Martin Scorsese's newest film - currently in theaters - Killers of the Flower Moon, a beautifully realized adaptation of David Grann's 2017 non-fiction best seller, Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI.  Featuring exceptional performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, new comer Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, John Lithgow, Tantoo Cardinal, Brendan Fraser, and a powerfully restrained Robert DeNiro, Killers of the Flower Moon is a beautifully told and powerfully moving dramatization of the Osage murders of the early 1920s. Scorsese has crafted a nuanced and gripping film that only time will allow the revelation of its complete impact. It was a pleasure to begin November with this film. Comments can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos 

1933 . . . Words Didn't Buy Much - Walter Hill's Hard Times 

On this week's episode, Mr. Ramos celebrates his 49th birthday looking at the purpose and drive of WatchThis W/RickRamos, some of his favorite films, why he loves them as he does, and culminating with a look at one of his favorite films, Walter Hill's directorial debut, Hard Times (1975). Why this films is a longstanding favorite is a mystery, however it is one that our illustrious host works to understand. Featuring wonderful performances from Charles Bronson as Chaney, James Coburn as Speed, Strother Martin as Poe, and exceptional supporting performances from Jill Ireland, Nick Dimitri, Robert Tessier, and Michael McGuire Hard Times continues to hold onto Ramos's imagination and soul. This was a fun episode. Hopefully you'll enjoy the reminiscing. If you have something to contribute you can correspond with Rick Ramos at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Your #1 Fan: Rob Reiner & Stephen King's Misery

This week Mr. Chavez & I close out October and Halloween with one of the great Horror/Thrillers of the 1990s, Rob Reiner's adaptation of Stephen King's Misery. A tale of King's personal struggles with the writing medium, alcohol and drug abuse, and the perils of fame told through the life of the fictional author Paul Sheldon. With the creation of Annie Wilkes - a seemingly sweet, caring, and psychotic nurse, King gave life to an incredible character that embodied many of his personal demons. Realized through the performances of James Caan as King's alter ego, Paul Sheldon, and (a new discovery at the time) Kathy Bates as Annie Wilkes, King and Reiner created one of the more unsettling, disturbing, and beautifully tense thrillers in the history of the genre. With a wonderful supporting cast including Lauren Bacall, Frances Sternhagen, and - an exceptional - Richard Farnsworth, Misery, was a great film to re-visit. We are thrilled to end the month with this recommendation. Hit us up at gondoramos@yahoo.com if you'd like to let us know what you think. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. The holidays are coming an we could use the help. Stop being cheap bastards and give what you can. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Never Sleep Again: The Horror of Freddy Krueger

This week Ibrahim & i talk one of the iconic Horror figures of the late 20th Century, Wes Craven's pedophile, nightmare murderer Freddy Krueger. Through seven original films, a remake  (which we only touch on), and a Friday the13th crossover, Krueger has taken on a cryptic and overwhelming cult of popularity. Created by Craven and realized through the performance of Robert Englund, Krueger is a character that has captured the cinematic imagination and enjoyment of audiences throughout the world. With the original Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) - directed by Wes Craven, followed by four quality diminishing sequels and a triumpant return to form with the Wes Craven directed Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994), the combined efforts of Craven, Englund, and actress Heather Langenkamp have created one of the great figures in Horror Cinema. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com

 As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Full Moon Fever: John Landis's An American Werewolf in London

Halloween is around the corner . . . this week Mr. Chavez & I continue our look into the Horror Genre with a screening and discussion of John Landis's 1981 Horror Classic, An American Werewolf in London. There's a whole lot going on in Landis's film (some good, some bad, some exteme), but the great gift - that it continues to deliver on - is the introduction of Special Effects and Make-Up Master, Rick Baker. On this week's episode we discuss what we feel Landis did right, what he did wrong, as well as the film's lasting impact on the entire make-up and special effects industry. Baker won a richly deserved Oscar (an award created specifically for his groundbreaking work) at the '81 Academy Awards. Take a listen and let us know what you think. It's a fun and interesting talk detailing the film, Landis's career, the history of Horror films, and the importance of the genre itself. Let us know what you think . . . gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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The Horror Double: Invasion of the Body Snatchers 

This week Ibrahim & I look at a classic (a standard) of the Horror Genre - Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956 & 1978) and Body Snatchers (1993). Based on the 1954 Jack Finney Sci-Fi Novel, directors Don Siegel, Philip Kaufman, and Abel Ferrara have taken drastically different approaches to this material. Each film is a classic in their own rights. Take a listen and see if you agree with out assessments. As always we'd love to hear your comments and contributions at gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Bloody Giallo - Dario Argento's Suspiria

This week Ibrahim & I dive into the world of Italian Giallo Cinema with a look at Dario Argento's 1977 "masterpiece" Suspiria. Combining violence, sexploitation, the supernatural, and vibrant color, Argento's film is one that is considered one of the most influential films in the genre. For those familiar with the podcast it should come as no surprise that one of us dislikes this film and one of us wholeheartedly embraces it. Take a listen for a spirited conversation. . . it's a good time. You can reach us at gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks.

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Dark, Wild Woods: Neil Jordan's The Company of Wolves

This week Mr. Chavez & I sink into the world of Fairy Tales and Warped Childrens' Stories to examine Director Neil Jordan's 1984 Horror/Fairy Tale The Company of Wolves. This is an intersting film with beautiful production design. One of us appreciates it more than the other and so the arguments begin. Take a listen as we discuss fairy tales as allegory, the storied history of werewolves in cinema and literature, as well as Neil Jordan's filmography. It's an interesting conversation that we know you will appreciate.  

You can reach us at gondoramos@yahoo.com

As always, we continue to look to you good and loyal listeners for support. If you have listened and enjoyed our bantering over these nearly eight years please feel free to support us with a monetary contribution. We're not asking for a whole lot. Whatever you can give is appreciated. Follow the link below to contribute.  Our Continued Thanks. 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

Beyond Black Tropes: Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror (Part II)

A second episode uploaded and ready for your enjoyment, as Mr. Chavez and Mr. Ramos continue our look at The History of Black Horror Cinema through the Shudder Network and Xavier Burgin's Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror (2019). Take a listen as we move out of the "Blaxploitation" era and into the modern era of Black Horror. It's a fun talk. Let us know what you think at gondoramos@yahoo.com 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. We've busted ass for a number of years, scraping by for the Love of Cinema . . . you can do the right thing by digging into those pockets and giving a little bit to help keep the lights on. Our Continued Thanks. 

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First to Die: Black Noire: A History of Black Horror (Part I) 

The first of a two-part looking at The History of Black Horror Cinema. On this episode we discuss the Shudder Network Documentary Black Noire: A History of Black Horror (2019), focusing on the history, films, tropes, and achievements of African-American Horror Cinema. Including interviews with scholars, writers, directors, and actors, Xavier Burgin's 2019 documentary is an enjoyable and informative look at a sub-genre that rarely gets the attention and examination it deserves. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. We've busted ass for a number of years, scraping by for the Love of Cinema . . . you can do the right thing by digging into those pockets and giving a little bit to help keep the lights on. Our Continued Thanks. 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos
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Horror Well-Cut: Nicholas Roeg's Don't Look Now

This week Ibrahim & I continue our descent into Horror Cinema with a look at a British Classic, Nicholas Roeg's Don't Look Now (1973). Beautifully edited, masterfully directed, and sensitively acted (from stars Julie Christie and Donald Sutherland), Nicholas Roeg's film examines the struggle of a married couple as they attempt to continue living after the accidental drowning of their young daugter. Featuring a sex scene that has stirred controversy and speculation for over forty years, Roeg's film utilizes tension built through incredible tension and editing. Don't Look Now is a film that has continued to captivate critics while unsettling audiences since the film's premiere in 1973. Take a listen and let us know what you think. We can be reached at gondoramos@yahoo.com

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. We've busted ass for a number of years, scraping by for the Love of Cinema . . . you can do the right thing by digging into those pockets and giving a little bit to help keep the lights on. Our Continued Thanks. 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

A Mary Shelley Dick Joke: Mel Brooks's  Young Frankenstein

There's absolutely no caption, intro, blurb, or description that can capture the magic and brilliance of Mel Brooks's masterpiece (arguably one of three), Young Frankenstein (1974). From a script by Brooks and star, Gene Wilder, two comic geniuses salute, honor, and show great love for the Classic Universal Horror films of the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. With a brilliant supporting cast (possibly the greatest ever committed to film) including Marty Feldman, Cloris Leachman, Teri Garr, Kenneth Mars, Peter Boyle, Gene Hackman, and Madeline Khan, Brooks and Wilder's continuation of James Wales's Frankenstein (1931) and The Bride of Frankenstein (1935) faithfully recreates the Frankenstein World Cinema has come to know and love. Take a listen as Mr. Chavez & I shine a light on this incredibly loving and - often times - hilarious film. 

 If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. We've busted ass for a number of years, scraping by for the Love of Cinema . . . you can do the right thing by digging into those pockets and giving a little bit to help keep the lights on. Our Continued Thanks. 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

Family Plot: William Friedkin's Film of Tracy Letts's Killer Joe

This week Ibrahim & I remember the iconic filmmaker, William Friedkin. Friedkin was director of numerous classic films including: The French Connection (1971), The Exorcist (1973),  Sorcerer (1977), and To LIve and Die in L.A. (1985). His career would see numerous hits and misses, however many would agree that it ended with one of the strongest (and easily the most polarizing) films of his career . . . the Tracy Letts scripted (from his stage play) Killer Joe. Troubling material and numerous explicitly violent scenes make this film a struggle (albeit incredibly rewarding) to get through. With an powerful titular performance from Matthew McConaughey and an incredible supporting cast including: Emile Hirsch, Thomas Hayden Church, Gina Gershon, and Juno Temple, this is - arguably - one of the best films 2011 and the decade. Take a listen and see if you agree with our impressions of this overpowering film. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

f you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

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The Prometheus Warning: Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer 

Take a listen as Mr. Chavez makes his triumphant return and we dive into Christopher Nolan's masterpiece bio-pic of J. Robert Oppenheimer - The Father of the Atomic Bomb. A fascinating film that the two of us are thrilled to have seen in 70MM IMAX and are even more thrilled to discuss. A great film and - hopefully - a great discussion. Take a listen.

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks for Your Continued Support. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

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Based On a True Story: William Friedkin's The Brink's Job

This past week we said farewell to one of the greats of 70s & 80s Cinema, William Friedkin. Known for  such classics as The French Connection, The Exorcist, and To Live and Die in L.A, Friedkin was a difficult and polarizing figure in the world of cinema. What cannot be argued was his briliance. For this week's episode I remember Mr. Friedkin with a rarely seen film that is far outside his better known filmography, 1978's The Brink's Job. Based on the true story of the biggest heist in history - up to that point - Friedkin's film is a wonderfully playful and comic look at the men who pulled off this ridiculous crime. Featuring an all-star cast led by Peter Falk and including Gena Rowlands, Peter Boyle, Allen Garifeld, Paul Sorvino, and Warren Oates, The Brink's Job is a fun little caper film that is far better than it has any right to be. Watch the movie, take a listen and let me know if you agree. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

Murder Comes Home - Carl Franklin's One False Move 

This week I take a look at Carl Franklin's 1992 directorial debut, the powerful and disturbing, One False Move. Featuring Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thorton, Cynda Williams, Earl Billings, Jim Metzler, and Michael Beach,  in a film the great film critic Roger Ebert called, "a powerful directing job. He (Franklin) starts with an extraordinary screenplay and then finds the right tones and moods for every scene, realizing it's not the plot we care about, it’s the people." Gene Siskel would name it the best film of 1992. It was a thrill to re-watch it and record my thoughts on this brililant first film. Take a listen and let me know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

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Taking Chances . . . Bitter Stories

Neo-Noir - Walter Hill's Johnny Handsome 

A solo episode for your enjoyment. This week I recommend a classic Walter Hill film showcasing the violence, grittiness, and power of action and neo-noir cinema. Featuring an all-star cast including Forrest Whitaker, Ellen Barkin, Lance Henriksen, Elizabeth McGovern, Morgan Freeman (in a rare - questionably - villainous role), and a leading performance from a young and beautiful Mickey Rourke. Darkness overwhelms this film and is a magical reminder of Hill at his artistic peak. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

A Continuing Story to Tell - The American Western: Dead for a Dollar & Old Henry 

Rick Ramos flies solo and talks Walter Hill's Dead for a Dollar (2022), featuring Christoph Waltz and Willem Defoe and Potsy Ponciroli's Old Henry (2021) starring Tim Blake Nelson, Steven Dorff, and Trace Adkins. One good film (if not somewhat disappointing) from one of our greatest action directors and one exceptional film from a director out of nowhere. Take a listen as I wax poetically on this Western genre that I love so much. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

A Humanistic Pairing: Harrison Ford & Peter Weir (Witness and The Mosquito Coast) 

Join me as we close out our Harrison Ford Tribute (tribute?) with a look at two exceptional Ford performances (one of which is his only Oscar nomination), 1985s Witness and 1986s The Mosquito Coast.  In the first film a seemingly typical Ford character, Philadelphia Detective John Book finds himself protecting a young Amish boy (Lukas Haas) and his mother (Kelly McGillis) in an Amish community completely unfamiliar to him. What could easily be a routine and obvious storyline is allowed to find itself and evolve into more than your standard police procedural. Director Peter Weir (in his first American production after great success in Australia - Picnic at Hanging Rock and Gallipoli) delivers a gripping and emotionally powerful narrative. The following year would find Weir and Ford continuing their collaboration with The Mosquito Coast (from the novel by Paul Theroux with a screenplay from Paul Schrader). In a performance unlike anything else in his filmography, Ford portrays Allie Fox an inventor, father of four, and deeply dissapointed member of American society. Disgusted with the hypocrisy, laziness, and greed of America, Fox moves his family to the jungles of Panama in an egotistical effort to control his (and his family's) present and future. Take a listen to this solo episode. It's a fun time. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

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Indiana Jones: The Making of a Hero 

This week Ibrahim & I continue to look at the world of Indiana Jones, first profiled in Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) and continued with Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008), and Indiana Jones and Dial of Destiny (2023). On this episode Mr. Chavez & I focus on the middle three films. There has been a great deal written and discussed about all of the films in this series. Why should Ibrahim and I be any different? From the thrills and ridiculousness of so much of these films thru the politics, controversies, and tropes of the adventure genre (including racism, colonialism, and the White Saviour) we approach all of this with an awareness that acknowledges these facts while simulataneously loving and embracing the excitement of the action and the nobility of the Jones character. It's a fun conversation; we hope you enjoy it. Thanks for your continued love and support. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark

This week Mr. Chavez & I continue our look at one of the great cinematic heroes, The George Lucas/Steven Spielberg imagined, Harrison Ford realized Indiana Jones. For over forty years, five films (as well as novelizations, comic books, and a television show - which we will not be getting into) and countless adventures searching for historical, religious, and cultural artifacts, Jones has amazed and thrilled countless audiences. This week Ibrahim & I go back to the beginning . . . 1981s Raiders of the Lost Ark. There's a whole lot to unpack. Take a listen as we head down memory lane with an old friend. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Our Continued Thanks.

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

Yesterday Belongs to Us:

Indiana Jones & The Dial of Destiny 

This week Mr. Chavez & I welcome the return of Henry Walton Jones, Jr. better known as "Indiana" Jones. Fifteen years since Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and 34 years since The Last Crusade, Jones (the 80 years old Harrison Ford) is back in - possibly - his greatest role. James Mangold (Walk the Line and Logan) takes over directing duties from Steven Spielberg and delivers a rousing, exciting, and emotionally satisfying conclusion to one of the greatest heroes in all of cinema. Ibrahim & I discuss the film (all aspects and spoilers noted) as well as internet controversies (box-office and "wokeness") that are plaguing the film in it's first weekend in theaters. There's a great deal here to unwrap as we begin a three episode series that covers the entirety of the "Indiana" Jones story (minus the television show). 

Questions Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. We appreciate your continued support. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

Hidden in the Mind: Ken Russell's Altered States 

This week Mr. Chavez and I continue our exploration of mind-altering narratives with a look at Ken Russell's 1980 Hollywood debut, Altered States. While not a completely successful film, there are elements here that force the audience to look deeper into the subject of sensory deprivation, isolation tanks, hallucinogenic drugs and the controversial work of counterculture  scientist, John C. Lilly. Perhaps a victim of 1980s cinematic limitations, Russell's film (from a screenplay by noted playwright and screenwriter, Paddy Chayefksy) touches on a number of interesting factors without being able to successfully depict them on screen. As always, it's an interesting conversation between the two of us, and one that we believe you will enjoy. There's quite a bit to unpack in this episode. We hope you'll join us. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated.

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

The Suffering in Between:

Adrian Lyne's Jacob's Ladder

This week Ibrahim & I continue looking into the world of challenging and painful cinema. In 1990 Adrian Lyne directed Bruce Joel Rubin's  screenplay (considered one of the great unfilmed screenplays for the ten years before the production) of Jacob's Ladder (Rubin would also write that year's Ghost). Filled with troubling imagery and an arguably confusing narrative that rewards its viewers with a dark, pained, and powerful story, Lyne's film is one that failed at the box office, found a new life on home video and (it can be argued) led towards a darker cinema of the 1990s led by directors such as David Fincher, Paul Thomas Anderson, Darren Aaronofsky, and Christopher Nolan. Not an entirely successful film, but a film that was an early trumpeting of things to come. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated. 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/watchrickramos

Tokyo Book of the Dead: Gaspar Noé's Enter the Void 

This week Mr. Chavez and I examine the work of a controversial and polarizing director, Gaspar Noé. Noé made headlines in the early 2000s with Irreversible, a film that continues to upset audiences and challenges filmmaking conventions. With Enter the Void (2009), Noé doubled down and created a film that divided critics calling it both "captivating and innovative" and "tedious and puerile." The argument continues on this week's episode. Watch the film, listen, and agree or disagree. We'd love to hear from you at gondoramos@yahoo.com 

If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated. 

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

A Little Girl's Dream:  Terry Gilliam's Tideland

Troubled throughout his career for circumstances - oftentimes - beyond his control (inadequate budgets - Munchausen, studio interference - Brazil and The Brothers Grimm, flash floods - Quixote, and death - Parnassus), Terry Gilliam has somehow been able to create some of the most incredible images ever committed to the big screen. From the great adventures of Baron Munchausen through an abandoned Philadelphia future overrun by wild animals, into an acid trip vision of 1970s Las Vegas, Gilliam is responsible for creating magic on screen that can only be described by his own adjective - Gilliamesque. With his 2005 look into the life of a nine-year old girl, Jelizah-Rose (Jodelle Ferland), orphaned and left to survive in an abandoned home on the Texas plains, Gilliam began a strange and interesting late career struggle for understanding. The films definitely changed. Pulling strongly from Lewis Carrol's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, at 64 Gilliam created one of the most difficult and polarizing films of his career. (According to Gilliam, fellow Python, Michael Palin, called the film - either the greatest thing he has ever done, or the worst.) The fact is that polarizing and difficult films are the films that need to be looked at, examined, and talked about. That's all we're really trying to do with this (and every one of our) episode(s). Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

Special Note: We're trying something new in this episode. If you've listened to us over the years, or if you're new to the podcast, and you'd like to support us you can click on the link below and donate to this long-running labor of love. Simply click on the link below and go to the Buy Me a Coffee website. Anything and Everything is Appreciated. 

https://bmc.link/watchrickramos

Anti-Sci-Fi: Andrei Tarkovsky's Solaris 

This week Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss a film widely-heralded as a masterpiece of Science Fiction Cinema, Andrei Tarkovsky's Solaris. In previous episodes, Ibrahim and I have discussed the brilliance of Tarkovsky's Mirror and Stalker. Here we struggle to understand and critique a film (widely recognized as brilliant) that simply doesn't come together for the two of us.

What is Sci-Fi? Aside of basic story elements, can Tarkovsky's film be considered a true Sci-Fi? This week we discuss this point as well as the role of an entire filmography in terms of understanding and evaluating a filmmaker's career. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. It's definitely an interesting conversation. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks for Your Continued Love and Support. 

Way of Nature, Way of Grace: Terrence Malick's The Tree of Life 

One of the greatest films ever commited to celluloid . . . Terrence Malick's The Tree of Life. This is simply the greatest film about childhood; beautifully photographed, honestly acted, and briliantly realized, Malick is a true visionary whose five films up to this point (2011) are all considered spiritual, poetic, and beautiful. The Tree of Life  is (arguably) a masterpiece that has polarized audiences - some enchanted by the poetic beauty of its images, others put-off by what is considered pretentiousness and a lack of narrative focus. Everyone has a right to their opinion, but simply putting aside a certain expectation of "typical" narrative films, provides a rewarding and life-changing (at least the cinematic equivalent) experience. Take a listen as Mr. Chavez and I dig deeply into this wondrous film-watching experience. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks for the Continued Love & Support. 

Donkey Variations: Jerzy Skolimowski's EO

This week Mr. Chavez and I travel to Cinematic Poland for Jerzy Skolimowski's EO - a beautiful and touching examination of the world through a donkey's eyes. Pain, Suffering, Beauty, and Resilience inspired by Bresson's Au Hasard Balthazar, but with a modern vision. This is an inspired piece of cinema, one that Ibrahim and I are thrilled to introduce to you and  excited to talk about. Take a listen and let us know what you think. For reference, you can find EO streaming on Amazon Prime for a small rental fee. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Virtual Girl & Sad Boy: Spike Jonez's Her

On this week's episode, Mr. Chavez & I sit down to discuss Spike Jonez's Her, a film particularly important and reflective of these times. With beautiful cinematography from Dutch/Swedish cinematographer, Hoyte van Hoytema, and featuring touching performances from Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Adams, Rooney Mara, and the voice of Samantha - Scarlett Johansson, Jonez's look at love, loneliness, heartache, and artificial intelligence, Her is an interesting examination however a problematic and (for one of us, at least) highly unsatisfactory film. The discussion goes into this. We hope that you join us and formulate your taste. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com.  Many Thanks. 

Beast of Burden: Robert Bresson's Au Hasard Balthazar - WatchThis W/RickRamos 

This week finds Mr. Chavez and myself continuing our dive into films with great reputations and few viewings. Bresson's 1966 French Classic, Au Hasard Balthazar, looks at life through the eyes of a donkey as it moves through the world being loved, abused, championed, worked, and - finally - sacrificed. A touching and beautifully story about humanity told in a profoundly emotional manner. As Mr. Chavez says, "I challenge someone to watch this movie and to be like, 'Well It's just about a f****** stupid donkey.'" There's so much more to unwrap, and for true fans of Cinema (and World Cinema in particular), Bresson's story is about the struggle found in purpose, love, and suffering. This is a truly beautiful film that has found legions of fans since its release over sixty years ago. We are proud to present Au Hasard Balthazar on this week's episode. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many & Continued Thanks. 

A New Kind of Forgotten Western - Sam Raimi's The Quick & the Dead

This week Mr. Chavez continues to travel and I continue my exploration into the vast number of films that I've somehow missed in this lifetime. There are quite a few films on this list and this podcast allows me the opportunity to watch them and assess their value. This week's choice is the 1995 Sam Raimi-directed, Sharon Stone lead (a rarity in the Western genre) The Quick & the Dead. This is by far not a great film or a forgotten masterpiece, however it is somewhat fascinating in its snapshot look at mid-90s Hollywood filmmaking. The beginning of an independent filmmakers dive into studio filmmaking (at this point, Raimi had directed The Evil Dead series and Darkman but was yet to take on the Spiderman series) and Sharon Stone's emergence as a powerhouse star and producer after Basic Instinct. With supporting performances from a nasty, vile, and dangerous Gene Hackman, and early appearances from Russell Crowe and Leonardo DiCaprio, Raimi's film is filled wtih beautiful cinematography (Dante Spinotti) and exceptionally strange and compelling production design. It's a good time and I'm thrilled that I had the opportunity to watch it for this show. I hope you enjoy it. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Loser Row - David Mamet's American Buffalo 

This week I go it alone to ramble on about losers, warped friendships, bad ideas, and hopelessness in David Mamet's 1975 play to 1996 film adaptation, American Buffalo. A three man showcase for Dennis Franz (Donny), Dustin Hoffman (Teach), and Sean Nelson (Bobby) in an angry portrait of loses who have no idea how desperate and ridiculous their ideas are. Not a great film, but a hell of a good time for those of us who love simple stories about hopelessness. Take a listen there's a pretty good amount to unpack. Thanks for listening; Thanks for the continued support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

"I Know You're There . . . " - Wim Wenders's Wings of Desire

Ibrahim and I continue our dive into foreign, arthouse, and obscure films with this examination of Wim Wenders's 1987 cinematic elegy to angels, poetry, sacrifice, and love. With beautiful performances from Bruno Ganz, Otto Sander, Solveig Dommartin, and Peter Falk, Wings of Desire is a powerful, romantic, and inspiring film that leaves viewers feeling hopeful and enlightened. It's a beautiful film that we are thrilled to look at. Take a listen; It's a fun conversation. Let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

City of Solitude - Wong Kar-wai's Fallen Angels

In the very late 80s and early 1990s, Hong Kong Cinema was evolving from the wuxia epic swordplay films of the Shaw Brothers, Bruce Lee's explosion and evolution into Jackie Chan's Golden Harvest heyday, John Woo's police and crime epics, and the emergence of Wong Kar-wai - a director of intense visual and thematic beauty. This week Ibrahim & I discuss a visually stunning and poetic example of Wong's work; showcasing the after hours nights of 1990s Hong Kong, Wong's film looks at an assassin, his "manager", a recently escaped convict, and a series of questionable types that come into their lives. This is a beautiful film that Ibrahim & I loved and loved talking about. Take a listen and let us know what you think. 

In Search of Goosebumps 

Last week we looked at Rick Ramos, this week Mr. Chavez takes center stage, diving into the myriad influences that have created Ibrahim Chavez. Take a listen as we dig into Mr. Chavez's psyche and memories to understand him just a bit better. It's a hell of a fun conversation. We hope you enjoy. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Defining Rick Ramos 

The Self-Indulgence is strong in this episode as Mr. Chavez and I break down our lives in movies over the next two episodes. From The Blues Brothers through Unforgiven and the concert films of George Carlin, it's a fun trip through the psychology of a movie lover. Take a listen; it's a fun conversation. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

Many Thanks. 

Three Auteurs: DePalma, Friedkin Uncut, and by Sidney Lumet 

When you have these three names there's little else that needs to be said. Take a listen as Mr. Chavez & I look at the careers and brilliance of three 1970s names that are sometimes left in the shadows of Scorsese, Spielberg, and Coppola - Brian DePalma, William Friedkin, and Sidney Lumet. It's a fun talk. We hope you enjoy it. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

A Dish Served Cold: Mark Mylod's The Menu 

This week Ibrahim & I sit down to talk a film that has recently left theatres, Mark Mylod's The Menu. Featuring a wonderful slumming performance from Ralph Fiennes and a captivating Anya Taylor-Joy (both Golden Globe nominated), this film is the very definition of empty calorie cinema. Ibrahim & I differ greatly in our opinions of this film, but we had fun with the viewing and and an even better time talking the film. You're in for an interesting and enjoyable discussion on a fun and forgettable film that many of you will enjoy simply for what it is. Class, Culture, The Restaurant and Cooking Industries, and Fame - We cover all of it, doing so with our usual insight and penchant for truth. Take a listen and see if you agree. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions should be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

The Colonel and The King - Baz Luhrman's Elvis 

This week Ibrahim and I sit down to discuss the Academy Award nominated, Baz Luhrman directed, Elvis Presley Bio-Pic, Elvis. Definitely a visual assault on the senses, Luhrman has an incredible eye that re-creates the country from the 1950s thru the birth of the Vegas Lounge Act in the 1970s. Featuring an award-winning performance from star, Austin Butler, as Presley and Tom Hanks as his controversial and Svengali-like manager, Colonel Tom Parker (born Andreas Cornelis van Kujik) in a strange and polarizing performance. Luhrman's film hits the familiar points; the music, censorship, racism and segregation, The Blues, Gospel, and - of course - the enduring legacy of Elvis Presley and the early days of the media star and the beginnings of cancel culture. Take a listen; it's an interesting discussion. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Our Continued Thanks. 

Monster Hunter - Todd Field's TÁR - WatchThis W/RickRamos 

This week Mr. Chavez & I sit down to talk Academy Best Picture Contender, Tár, featuring a stand-out performance from Cate Blanchett. This is the kind of picture we only ever get to see at awards season. In a cinematic world filled with remakes, re-hashes, and action tent-poles, Tár delivers a wonderfully nuanced and brutal honest examination of the  world we live in. This is a slow-paced, thoughtful film that asks a great deal from its viewers while simultaneously delivering a great deal. Take a listen and catch this essential film playing in theaters and streaming on select services.

 Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks for your continued love and support. 

Blue Dances with Wolves - James Cameron's Avatar Films 

In 2009 James Cameron took old soup and re-heated it in a familiar bowl. Equal parts Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Samurai, and (most glaringly) Kevin Costner's revisionist Western, Dances with Wolves, Cameron has gone back to the well-worn tradition of re-imagining Native Cultures, Colonialism, and the Trope of the White Saviour. This is territory that we (and many others) have explored ad-nauseum, however the films continue to get made and starving whores that we are, we take the bait. You can love this film series, you can hate it, but the discussion will always be an important, controversial, and impassioned one. Take a listen as Mr. Chavez and I discuss 2009s Avatar and it's thirteen years in the making sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water. At the very least it's a fun and combative discussion. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks for your continued love and support. 

Eating Images: Jordan Peele's Nope 

On this episode, Mr. Chavez & I sit down to discuss one of the best directors to emerge from the late 2010s into the early 2020s, Jordan Peele. With three films under his belt, 2017s Get Out, 2019s Us, and his latest - 2022s Nope, Peele has established himself as one of the most creative and compelling voices in today's cinema. His films challenge convention and stun audiences and critics with their audacity. This week we discuss Peele's emerging style as a filmmaker as well as the conventions and evolution of the genre. Take a listen. Ibrahim & I continue to have great times recording these episodes. We hope you can join us. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

The Many Faces of The Little Wooden Boy - Pinocchio 

Talking a Classic . . .  Netflix has recently premiered Guillermo del Toro's (with co-director Mark Gustafson) Pinocchio (2023), a touching stop-motion animation feature that is overwhelming in its beauty. On this week's episode I'm taking a look at Carlo Colidi's 1883 classic tale (The Adventures of Pinocchio) as it has been interpreted throughout the 20th and 21st Centuries. For this episode I look at the del Toro Netflix film, the 1940 Walt Disney Classic, and (my favorite) the 2019 Italian film from director Matteo Garrone and featuring Roberto Benigni as Geppetto. Hopefully this episode will give you a few things to consider. Take a look at these three films. I hope you will enjoy them. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Hollywood - Spectacle & Sacrifice: Damien Chazelle's Babylon

This week, Mr. Chavez & I continue our close out of 2022 (going into this third week of 2023), with a look at one of the most highly-anticipated films of the year (and one of its most polarizing films and biggest box-office disappointments), Damien Chazelle's Babylon. This is certainly a film that defines cinematic ambition, but also thematic and visual excess; A film of grotesque imagery and questionable plot points, Chazelle's love and fascination for the Hollywood's Silent Era and the slow emergence into "Talkies" is divisive at the very least. Rarely does a film emrege that is as beautiful, overblown, and misguided as this three-hour opus. Featuring Hollywood Stars interpreting the lives of early screen stars John Gilbert (Brad Pitt) and Clara Bow (Margot Robbie), and newcomers Diego Calva, Li Jun Li, and Jovan Adepo, as well as Jean Smart, Flea, Lukas Haas, Eric Roberts, Jeff Garlin, and Tobey McGuire. Incredibly problematic, but definitely worth seeing on the big screen, Chazelle's "Love Letter to Cinema and Hate Letter to Los Angeles/Hollywood" is one of the more fascinating spectacles in recent cinema. Take a listen and let us know what you think. 

As always, we. dive into all aspects of this film. It is best to have seen the film before listening. You've been warned. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com Many Thanks. 

Prison of the Self: Darren Aaronofsky's The Whale

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I continue our look at a series of challenging, polarizing, and (in some cases) critically-acclaimed films closing out 2022 and carrying us into 2023. This week we look at Brendan Fraser's return to the big screen in Darren Aaronofsky's The Whale. There is definitely greatness here, but there are also troubling and problematic (cinematic) elements to this film. We are not getting on a bandwagon our overlooking the attitudes and problems the public may have with this film, but are focusing - rather - on the qualities of telling a narrative centered around a morbidly obese man and all that that entails. 

There's a lot to unpack. Mr. Chavez and I do our best to come at the film with open-minds and balanced understanding. Take a listen as we dive into this moving and difficult film. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

To Our Graves, We're Taking This: Martin McDonagh's The Banshees of Inisherin

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I move into 2023 with one of the best films of 2022, Martin McDonagh's The Banshees of Inisherin. A reunion for stars Brendan Gleeson & Colin Ferrel as well as their Director Martin McDonagh (all three of In Bruges - 2008), Banshees is a beautifully realized character study looking at a decades long friendship as it comes to an end and the struggle of both men dealing with that separation, McDonagh's film is both beautiful and touching in it's examination of friendship, aging, and loneliness. It's a thrill for the two of us to sit down and discuss this wonderful film playing in theaters and on HBO Max right now. Please realize that Mr. Chavez & I will be discussing all aspects of this film. Be sure to see the film before listening to the episode. However you get into this it's a fun and informative discussion. We hope you enjoy it. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks.