Watch This With Rick Ramos

The Joker - An Iconic Cultural Villain

(With Special Guest Mike Black)

 

On this week's episode of WatchThisW/RickRamos, Old Friend Mike Black returns to The Fortress of Ultimate Darkness to discuss the history of The Joker - one of the most important villains in all of comics, film, and literature for that matter. We discuss the various portrayals of the Batman villain, from Caesar Romero thru Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger, Jared Leto, Mark Hamil, and - now - Joaquin Phoenix. Why has this character so wholly captured the imaginations (and fears) of readers and audiences the world over. He is a figure far more important than a simple fictional character. There's no one I know better to dig into this history than my friend Mike Black. Take a listen and let us know what you think. 

Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. As always, thanks for your continued love & support. 

Direct download: The_Joker.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 4:12am EDT

Return of the Studios 

History of the Oscars Part 5: '84 - '92

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I continue our look at The History of The Academy Awards. 

After the colossal failure of Michael Cimino's Heaven's Gate, Hollywood would wrestle power back from the "movie brats" to empower the studio heads, once again. Gone were the darker, psychologically challenging films - giving rise to the era of muscles and explosions. However, to maintain the respectability of The Academy the board would recognize and award a series of big-budget, prestige films that have - mostly - been forgotten today. This week Ibrahim & I discuss the choices and the changing face of the awards and the industry. 

As always, thank you for your continued Love & Support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com

Direct download: OscarsPart5.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 10:08pm EDT

The Blockbuster Era -Regaining Control 

History of the Oscars Part 4: '75 - '83

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I continue our look back at the Academy Awards; their origins, politics, surprises, and historical importance. Part 4 takes us through the mid 70's with the balancing of "The New Hollywood" with the "Film School Brats" and the emergence of the blockbuster from some of those same hands.

Join us as we take a look back at a fascinating time and place that continues to captivate audiences. We hope you enjoy this trip as much as we enjoy guiding it.

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

Direct download: OscarsPart4.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:59pm EDT

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