The Little Brother's Shadow: Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas & Casino

Yeah Scorsese's Goodfellas is the older film, but Casino is the grander and more far-reaching of the two films. One of the great debates of modern cinema has been Casino's reputation in the shadow of Goodfellas. In a career spanning nearly five decades, Martin Scorsese's critical reputation has ranked - arguably - over every major American filmmaker before, since, and after. He continues to direct exceptional films. Goodfellas and Casino are monumental achievements. It was a pleasure for Ibrahim & I to sit down and discuss two of this filmmaker's greatest successes. 

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

Voyeurs' Eye - The Life & Death of Bob Crane 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss Auto Focus, Paul Schrader's 2002 biopic of Hogan's Heroes star, Bob Crane. Crane, a popular television star of the late 1960s, would slowly be eaten away by his sexual addiction. Paul Schrader continues his examination of controversial and contradictory men in one of his best films to date.  Auto Focus has unjustly been ignored by audiences. Ibrahim & I were thrilled to look at this examination of his life, profiling Crane's sexual addiction, pornography, and voyeurism. As always, we talk film in order to better understand humanity and an ever changing society. It's an interesting talk. We hope you enjoy it. 

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

The Filmmaker's Friend - Remembering Roger Ebert (June 18, 1942 - April 04, 2013)

It's been six years since Cinema lost one of it's greatest champions - Roger Ebert. On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to remember this great critic, journalist, Pulitzer Prize winner. He would become the film critic for The Chicago Sun Times in 1967 and continued in this capacity until his death from complications stemming from papillary thyroid cancer in 2013.  However in his 70 years Ebert revolutionized the world of film criticism, and with his partner - Chicago Tribune film critic - Gene Siskel would emerge as the two most important, powerful, and influential critics the world of cinema has ever known.

Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com.Thanks for your continued support.   

The Kid Stayed in the Picture: Robert Evans - A Remembrance (06/29/30 - 10/26/19)

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to pay tribute to Robert Evans, one-time head of Paramount Pictures (1967-1974) and arguably the most popular producer of the 1970's. Evans would make a name for himself with The Odd Couple and Rosemary's Baby (both 1968), playing an instrumental part in introducing Roman Polanski to American audiences. Bringing back Paramount Studios from the brink of financial disaster with Love Story (1970) and The Godfather (1972), Evans cemented his importance in Hollywood bringing Paramount Studios from the ninth of the nine major studios to first place. Every great ascent brings with it an equally tragic fall and such is the case with Evans. With a conviction for cocaine trafficking and rumors of his involvement with a murder during the making of one of his biggest failures, The Cotton Club, the 1980's proved a volatile and damaging blow to his career. Evans would recover and return to Paramount finding success later in his career, however he would never reach the heights of his 70's heydays. It was a great time to talking about this over the top character (lampooned mercilessly, but with great heart and admiration by Dustin Hoffman in Barry Levinson's Wag the Dog) this was a wonderful time discussing Evans, the 70's, and the continuing evolution of the industry. Take a listen and let us know what you think. As always, Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the new film from documentarian Errol Morris, American Dharma. In a career that has spanned nearly forty years, Errol Morris has proven to be one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed documentary filmmakers in cinema history. From his early championing by Roger Ebert for his debut feature Gates of Heaven (1981) through critical notoriety for his examination of the case of Death Row inmate Randall Dale Adams, 1988's The Thin Blue Line (ultimately leading to Adams exoneration and release from prison), Morris has been one of the continuous shining lights of cinema. In 2003 he premiered what would become the first of what many critics would call his trilogy profiling controversial world leaders, first with Secretary of Defense (1961-1968) Robert S. McNamara in The Fog of War (2003), followed by The Unknown Known in which Morris profiled former Secretary of Defense (1975-1977 & 2001-2006) Donald Rumsfeld. Rounding out this unofficial "trilogy" is Morris' newest film, American Dharma (completed in 2018 but held up because of distribution struggles until 2019) which looks at the work of Former Executive Chairman of Breitbart News and White House Chief of Strategist for Donald Trump's 2016 run and subsequent win of the presidency. Dharma may be a controversial film, however it is powerful, important, and never boring. This is a spirited conversation that examines a great deal of what's going on in today's society. We may not be on point about everything, but our discussion is fueled by passion and a very real concern. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. As always, many thanks.

Pride Goeth Before the Fall:

The Life of James Riddle Hoffa in Martin Scorsese's I Heard You Paint Houses and Danny DeVito's Hoffa

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Mr. Chavez & I sit down to discuss one of the most highly anticipated films of the year, Martin Scorsese's I Heard You Paint Houses (The Irishman). A major cinematic event that has been inundated with controversy regarding story as well as Netflix's limited release, Martin Scorsese's new film is a definite high point in his career as well as a game-changer for the industry. The disappearance and (highly probable) murder of International Brotherhood of Teamsters President James R. Hoffa has been a subject that has fascinated the public for decades and is beautifully examined by one of cinema's greatest artists. On this week's episode of WatchThis, Ibrahim & I discuss this film as well as Danny DeVito's 1992 epic biopic Hoffa featuring a magnificent performance by Jack Nicholson as the labor leader and DeVito as his loyal right hand man. It was a great opportunity to return to DeVito's film and discuss it in a historical and artistic context. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. As Always, Our Deepest Thanks & Appreciation. 

The Director's Lens: Three Early Noirs by Jules Dassin - Night & the City/The Naked City/Brute Force

On this solo episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ramos continues his look at one of his favorite cinematic genres - Film Noir. Taking advantage of the chance to watch so many great films, this week week Ramos looks at the early career of Jules Dassin, a director who refused to name names during the McCarthy Era WitchHunts and was forced to emigrate to France where he became an even more successful director. On this episode we take a look at 1950's Night & the City featuring Richard Widmark, Gene Tierney, and Herbert Lom, as well as 1948's The Naked City starring Barry Fitzgerald, and - finally - 1947's Brute Force with commanding performances from Burt Lancaster and Hume Cronyn. Basically one guy sitting her bullshitting with himself about something he loves. 

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

High Art, Low Art, & The Need To Get It On Screen:

Dolemite Is My Name & Ed Wood

Twenty-Five Years in the making. On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the struggles of High Art, Low Art, and Recognizing the Difference between the Two. Looking at two great film biopics chronicling the lives and work of artists of questionable talent, this week we discuss the new Netflix biopic of 70s Blaxploitation Legend Rudy Ray Moore - portrayed in a great return to form performance by Eddie Murphy, Dolemite Is My Name (directed by Hustle & Flow's Craig Brewer) and Tim Burton's 1994 look at the director widely credited as "The Worst of All Time," Ed Wood starring Johnny Depp in the title role. Ibrahim & I go deeper than some may expect in profiling these two immensely entertaining films, however we both agree that both films present interesting questions regarding the definition of Art. 

Maybe we're on point, maybe we're missing it . . . either way we hope you enjoy the conversation. 

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

God's Lonely Men: The Collaborations of Martin Scorsese & Paul Schrader (Taxi Driver & Bringing Out the Dead)

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the artistic collaborations between Martin Scorsese & Paul Schrader. Over a 23 year span these two filmmakers have created some of the most powerful stories put on film. This week we take a look at their first film 1976's ground-breaking masterpiece Taxi Driver and their final collaboration, 1999's criminally underseen Bringing Out the Dead. We realize that Taxi Driver has been discussed almost to death, however a film of it's power can always be looked at again. Bringing Out the Dead has never received the recognition or examination that it has deserved. We are proud to do our small part to fix this. Take a listen as we discuss the cultural and artistic importance (as well as legacies) of these two films. 

Remember, Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thank You for your continued Love & Support. 

Screams of a Clown - Todd Phillip's Joker

&                         Martin Scorsese's The King of Comedy 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos we wholeheartedly welcome the return of Mr. Ibrahim Chavez. Back in time to discuss one of the most talked about films of the year, it is a thrill for Chavez & Ramos to sit down and discuss Joaquin Phoenix's remarkable performance as Arthur Fleck and Fleck's transformation into the one of the most iconic villains in all of Cinema & Literature - (The) Joker. A beautifully photographed and magnificently recreated late 70s/early 80s New York standing in for Gotham. We don't necessarily agree on this one, but we both have interesting opinions on the film. We pair this review with a look back at one of Phillip's heavy inspirations, Martin Scorsese's 1983 criminally underseen The King of Comedy. With brilliant performances by Robert DeNiro, Sandra Bernhardt, and Jerry Lewis, The King of Comedy reminds us of Scorsese's genius. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. As always Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. As always, our continued thanks. 

JOHN J. RAMBO - Looking Back on an American Icon

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos Ramos flies solo with a look at Sylvester Stallone's second most iconic role - John J. Rambo. A staple of the 1980s, Rambo is a problematic example of American Screen Heroism. From David Morrell's source novel First Blood, the Rambo character started as a confused and damaged Vietnam veteran pushed too far and forced to take revenge on a small-town. The series would begin in 1982 with First Blood and continue with Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), Rambo III (1988), Rambo (2008), and - the supposed finale - Rambo: Last Blood (2019). Claims of simplicity, colonialism, jingoism, and ridiculously over-the-top violence have been a constant label on this series. This episode looks at the memories, problems, and overall quality of this series. We hope you enjoy it.

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

As always - Thank You. 

Disappointments and Surprises: Kiss of Death & Where the Sidewalk Ends - A Continuing Journey Into Film Noir

On This week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ramos continues to go it solo looking at two classics of Film Noir - Henry Hathaway's Kiss of Death (1947) and Otto Preminger's Where the Sidewalk Ends (1950). Two films heralded as classics of Noir with one of them holding up much better than the other. Take a listen as Ramos continues his descent into the heart of darkness. 

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

Losers Refusing to Give Up - Robert Wise's The Set-Up

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, I continue my solo microphone runs into the world of Film Noir. I've always loved this genre (is it a genre?) and am thrilled to be making my way through so many films that have been sitting on my shelves. This week the show focuses on Robert Wise's RKO Classic The Set-Up from 1949. This is almost universally recognized as one of the best and most important Film Noirs. With a great lead performance from Robert Ryan as an over-the-hill boxer aware of how much he has lost and no idea of how hopeless it all is. This is really one of the great films of Noir. I'm thrilled that I've had the opportunity to finally see this film and now have the chance to present it to those who haven't seen it and give insight to those who have. Thanks for the opportunity. As always, I appreciate the continued love and support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Edgar G. Ulmer's Detour - Riding into the Darkness of Noir

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos I fly solo with a look at The Criterion Edition of Edgar G. Ulmer's Detour (1945). With this B-Movie/Poverty Row production, Ulmer secured his place in the annals of film history. One of the earliest Noirs of record, in 1992 Ulmer's film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant". It's a wonderful film and a great introduction to the genre. Take a listen as I discuss this classic starring Tom Neal, in a superb Noir Hero performance, and Anne Savage as the quintessential femme fatale ballbreaker. It's a good time and one which you should enjoy. Take a listen and decide for yourself. 

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

Peter Fonda: A Rememberance (February 23, 1940 - August 16, 2019)

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to look over the career of Peter Fonda, who passed away August 16th at the age of 79. From his early work with Roger Corman's American International Pictures thru his phenomenal success co-writing, producing and starring in Dennis Hopper's Easy Rider (1969). Ibrahim & I discuss the cultural and cinematic importance of this film as well as (what one of us believe) is it's failure 50 years later. We also take a look at one of Fonda's directorial efforts, 1973's The Hired Hand as well his roles in Victor Nuñez's Ulee's Gold (1997) and the Steven Soderbergh directed The Limey (1999). We discuss Fonda's gifts and limitations as an actor. The talk is an interesting one, slipping into a discussion of the culture of the time, as well as a lot of what goes into making a character honest and memorable. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions should be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

The Re-Boot Era Continued - The History of the Oscars Part 11: 2015 - 2019 

Our long road through The History of The Academy Awards finally comes to an end as Ibrahim & I look at these last five years of The Awards. We remember the winners, the losers, those that were not nominated, and our thoughts on the awards as a whole. 

. . . That's All Folks

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

The Reboot Era - History of the Oscars Part 10: 2011 - 2014

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I get one episode closer to finishing our series on The History of the Academy Awards. Looking at the years 2011 thru 2014, we examine the Academy's continued desire to maintain the status quo. As we come closer to the end of this exploration, we find ourselves by the careful - and predictable - choices the Academy has made. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. Our Thanks & Appreciation for your continued Love & Support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com.

Rutger Hauer: Like Tears in Rain (January 23, 1944 - July 19, 2019)

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the career of Rutger Hauer who passed away this past week at the age of 75. Hauer began his professional acting career in 1969 under the guidance of fellow Dutchman, Paul Verhoeven, for a television movie. Hauer would work again with Verhoeven in his film debut Turkish Delight (1973). From this point Hauer continued in a series of European films until his American debut alongside Sylvester Stallone and Billy Dee Williams, as an international terrorist establishing himself in New York City in the gripping police-terrorist, cat & mouse game, 1981's Nighthawks. We also discuss starring roles, including The Hitcher from 1986 and Wanted: Dead or Alive from 1987. However, all of this is a prelude to his crowning achievement, Ridley Scott's Blade Runner. Blade Runner, a brilliant film, propelled by an incredible Hauer performance.

We loved sitting down and examiniing this performance and remembering this incredible actor. 

Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Tarantino (Re)Writes The Summer of 69: Sharon Tate, Charles Manson, Hollywood & The Changing of History - Once Upon a Time . . . in Hollywood

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss one of the most anticipated films of 2019, Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time . . . in Hollywood. Profiling "The End of the 60s" and taking liberal advantage of a history that saw the brutal murders of actress Sharon Tate and four of her guests by members of The Manson Family, Quentin Tarantino has delivered, yet another, film that plays with history and wallows in self-indulgence. There is great filmmaking here and it is a pleasure to talk about. With exceptional performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, this is definitely a film worth examining, how much of it is hype is what we are here to determine. Take a listen and let us know if you agree with our assessment. 

Thanks for the continued Love & Support. As always, Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. A Million Thanks!

Kermit, Fozzie, Miss Piggy, & The Brilliance of Jim Henson - WatchThis W/RickRamos 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the 40th Anniversary of Jim Henson's The Muppet Movie. Widely regarded as a "Children's Classic," The Muppet Movie has proven to be so much more than that. With characters like Kermit the Frog, Rowlf the Dog, Dr. Teeth & The Electric Mayhem Band, as well as Miss Piggy and The Great Gonzo . . . really, there are far too many to name - Henson was able to create a wonderful world where puppets exhibited the range of human emotions that have made them endearing for over 50 years. From their origins in local television, through Sesame Street, and the 70s era The Muppet Show it is time to sit down and talk about the contributions of Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Juhl, Jerry Nelson, and Richard Hunt, among others. This was a great time remembering this wonderful film and looking at it's social and cinematic impact. Thanks for listening. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thanks. 

A Questionable Renaissance Continued - History of the Oscars Part 9: 2006 - 2010

Closer & Closer we get to making it through the entire History of The Academy Awards. On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to reminisce about the Oscar winning films from 2005 thru 2009. Hindsight may be 20/20, however we continue to drive towards the understanding that the awards are little more than an artistic political champaign that does very little in recognizing and awarding great films. Listen as we continue to be disappointed in the way history has played out.  

As always, we thank you for your continued love and support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks!

Yesterday Today: Rock 'N Roll Cinema (Part 1)

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I take a break from our Oscars breakdown to discuss The Beatles, showcased this month in Danny Boyle's Yesterday. We take a look at this film and the lasting legacy of The Fab Four. We also discuss Julie Taymor's Across the Universe and Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale's I Wanna Hold Your Hand. Sit back and listen as we discuss one of the greatest bands of all time. 

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

A Questionable Renaissance - History of the Oscars Part 8: 2001- 2005 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I continue on our journey through The History of The Academy Awards. This week we look at the films of 2000 - 2004.

There was an idea that things were changing, however the awards will show that the Academy has struggled to maintain the "integrity and stature" of award-winning films. Take a listen as we remember the beginning of a new millennium and realize that not a whole of a lot has changed. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com.

Thank You for your continued Love & Support. 

The New Independents Continued - History of the Oscars Part 7: '97 - '00

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I continue our examination of the Academy Awards, focusing on the years 1997 - 2000. Miramax, the Weinsteins, and surprise after surprise as we remember history differently than history occurred. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Many Thanks. 

Epilogue:

Anthony Bourdain

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss the One Year Anniversary of the Death of Anthony Bourdain. What was Bourdain's Legacy? The Power and Purpose of the Final Season? And Bourdain's Continuing Importance as a Cultural Ambassador & Explorer of Humanity. It felt great to sit down and talk three episodes of the final season of Parts Unknown as well as remembering what made Bourdain such a compelling and charismatic  figure. Sit back and remember this great humanitarian. Thanks for the continued love and support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thanks a lot. 

Deadwood - David Milch: The Meaning of Endings

We've been working quite some time to get to this place. On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to continue our discussion of - arguably - the greatest series ever produced for television, David Milch's Deadwood. After a cancelled fourth season, and two two-hour movies that were never made, Milch was finally able to give his series the send-off that it has always deserved. On this episode we discuss the success in restarting this major work, the full arc of such characters as Al Swearengen, Seth Bullock, Alma Garret, The Whore Trixie, Sol Star, Charlie Utter, and so many more, as well as  the performances that brought these characters to life. This was a great time. Two friends sitting down to discuss a story that has consumed - at least one - of our lives. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thank You So Much for your continued support. 

Lies Agreed Upon - David Milch's DEADWOOD

This is an episode that we have talked about and prepped for years. On this episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss - arguably - the greatest show ever produced for television, David Milch's Western Masterpiece Deadwood. Portraying the birth of the town of Deadwood, South Dakota from it's creation through it's evolution from lawlessness into the formation of government, we're covering a lot of ground on this episode. Ranging from the themes (Religion, Government, Racism, Greed, Nobility, etc.) thru the acting, writing, fluidity and beauty of the language, David Milch has created a world that is alive and compelling in every aspect of what we've come to expect from long-form storytelling. It's a magnificent show that we are thrilled to be talking about. We talk about every aspect of the series without concern for spoilers. If you are listening to this podcast we hope that you have finished the series. We will continue with a second episode picking up where this one leaves off and including the Deadwood Movie that premiered on HBO on Friday, May 31st. Take a listen. We think you'll enjoy what we have to say. 

Game of Thrones: A Song of Ice & Fire

All things must come to an end. On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss George R.R. Martin's groundbreaking literary series Game of Thrones. For seven years we've followed the lives of the Starks, the Lannisters, and the Targaeryans as they maneuvered through alliances and treachery to gain control of the mythical continent of Westeros. This has been an incredibly detailed and genre-changing series that has more than it's fair share of controversy. In this talk Ibrahim & I give our opinions on what the show did right, what it did wrong, and the necessity of audiences coming to terms with their expectations. This was one hell of a fun talk. We hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed laying it down. As always our thanks for your continued loves and support. 

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

"I'll Buy That For a Dollar" - The Lines That Make the Movies

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss our personal favorite lines in cinema. From The Producers to Pulp Fiction, Fight Club to The Blues Brothers, an almost unending series of quotable humor, pathos, and wisdom. Take a listen and be sure to let us know what your personal favorite lines are. 

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

Game of Thrones: Path to the Crown

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I take a short break from our look at the history of the Academy Awards to break down the past seven seasons of George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones. HBO has routinely changed the face of storytelling and does so now with the creation of an amazing fantasy world that digs into the marrow of humanity. There is so much to talk about over these 70 episodes - as well as speculation regarding how the final three episodes will play out. We are examining the mythos of this world-building, the characters (each of our favorites), moments that we didn't expect, and the show's thematic connection to our own world. This is an exciting talk and we're glad that so many of you are choosing to join us. Thank you for your continued love & support. As always, Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be addressed to gondoramos@yahoo.com.

The New Independents 

History of the Oscars Part 6: '93 - '96

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos Ibrahim & I continue our ride through The History of The Academy Awards from '93 thru '96 looking at the emergence of the Independents and the growing influence of the Weinsteins. 

We're having a great time going through all of this. It's definitely taking a hell of a lot longer than we expected. But here we are and it's proving to be a good time for us. We hope you're having as much fun listening. 

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

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. 

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. 

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. 

Emergence of a New Hollywood - History of the Oscars Part 3  '67 - '74

Ibrahim & I continue our examination of the Academy Awards looking at the breakdown of the studio system and the emergence of a "New Hollywood" that would challenge everything that had come before it. We look at the effects of an America in turmoil and confusion and the films that would find inspiration in such pessimism. The "Old Guard" was dying off, the studios were losing control, and the "Movie Brats" were rising with a European sense that would revolutionize cinema. This is a fun talk. We're not really sure how many episodes this is going to take, but we're looking forward to the ride. Take a listen and let us know what you think. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. A Million Thanks. 

Hollywood in Transition - A History of the Oscars Part 2 '51 - '66

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I once again go through the history of the Academy Awards. We talk the changing face of the medium and acting, as well as the beginning failings of the studio system. Some pretty good stories and a number of laughs as we remember some great films, some forgettable ones, and ask ourselves what happened to a few of these names. Take a listen. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thanks for the continued love and support.  

Hollywood Loves Itself - A History the Oscars '29-'50

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to take one of our trips through The History of Cinema. Focusing on The Academy Awards, this first episode in our new series looks at the inception of the awards, it's earliest nominees and winners, as well it's purpose in the bigger picture of film as a recognized art form. We look at past winners and chart the names forgotten and those who would become staples of the ceremony. From it's beginning in 1929 - celebrating the films of 1927 & 1928 - we lay the foundation for a discussion that will lead to understanding the process of nominating and awarding films, as well the politics and evolving purpose of the awards. Take a listen . . . we've got quite a bit to say. Thanks for the continued love and support. Questions, Comments, Complaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thanks!

Who Decides What We See? 

Jack Valenti, The MPAA, & The Ratings Board 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss censorship and the Hollywood industry's attempts to police themselves. The establishment of the MPAA would put into to place  the next five decades of artistic and cultural parameters governing the depiction of sex, sexuality, violence, and the culture as a whole. Kirby Dick's 2006 documentary, This Film is Not Yet Rated,  takes a talking heads and investigative approach to this subject. But the documentary is really only a stepping point for Ibrahim & I to go off on our own ideas of how the system is set up. Take a listen as we dig into this very important topic.

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

Goodbye to a Few Friends and a Brief Academy Award Recap

On this week's episode of WatchThis w/RickRamos I give a quick summation of the 2019 Academy Awards and quickly move on to the topic of Suicide. Not a totally upbeat episode, but one from the heart. If you've been listening this long the candor of this episode should not surprise you. 

Thanks for the continued Love & Support. 

The Spectrum of Criminality:

Infernal Affairs &

The Departed

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss and compare Andrew Lau & Alan Mak's 2002 Hong Kong crime thriller Infernal Affairs and it's 2006 American remake The Departed from director Martin Scorsese. With rival casts including Andy Lau Tak-wah, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Anthony Wong Chau-sang, and Eric Tsang Chi-wai, the Hong Kong film is considered a classic of both the genre and the Hong Kong Film Industry. Martin Scorsese's re-imagining of this film finally brought him the Oscar he had been working nearly 40 years to win. With an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Vera Farmiga, Mark Wahlberg, Alec Baldwin, and a late era Jack Nicholson, Scorsese's film is an exemplary remake; expanding on the original film and adding nuances that Scorsese has become known for. Ibrahim & I come at it from numerous angles. Our opinions on both films seem to differ wildly from the accepted norm. Film is without a doubt a medium of varied interpretation and these two films do so much to prove that point. Take a listen and let us know if you  agree or disagree. Questions, Comments, Compaints, & Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. Thank You for your continued love and support. 

J. Lee Thompson & Martin Scorsese: Cape Fear 

On this week's second episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss a B-Movie masterpiece, J. Lee Thompson's 1961 Noir Classic, Cape Fear. Featuring a wonderful cast including Gregory Peck, Polly Bergen, Barrie Chase, Martin Balsam, and Telly Savalas, Thompson fashions a taut, heart-pounding thriller propelled by an incredible performance by Robert Mitchum as convicted rapist Max Cady. Voted one of the greatest villains of all time, Mitchum is truly extraordinary. Almost thirty years later Martin Scorsese would remake this film as an exercise in genre filmmaking that would reunite him for the seventh time with Academy Award winner, Robert De Niro. Along with Nick Nolte, Jessica Lange, Juliette Lewis, Joe Don Baker, and cameos from the film's original stars - Gregory Peck, Martin Balsam, and Robert Mitchum this is an exceptional remake even if it happens to come up short in comparison to the original. Take a listen. We hope you have as much fun as we had recording. Questions, Comments, Complaints, and Suggestions can be directed to gondoramos@yahoo.com. As always thank you so much. 

Neo-Realism: From De Sica to Cuarón

Bicycle Thieves & Roma 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos Ibrahim & I sit down to talk two of the most widely recognized works in Neo-Realism: Vittorio De Sica's 1948 masterpiece Bicycle Thieves (sometimes known as The Bicycle Thief) and Alfonso Cuarón's current critical hit (nominated for 10 Academy Awards) Roma. We discuss the importance, merits, and differences between both films. We argue, coming to agreement on some points and reaffirming our beliefs in other respects. An interesting conversation tackling controversial and polarizing issues, this is easily one of our best episodes in quite some time.

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

The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling & Kurosawa's Ikiru: Purpose, Regret, & Redemption

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ramos goes it solo in The Fortress of Ultimate Darkness to talk Judd Apatow's 2018 HBO Documentary on The Life, Struggles, & Career of Garry Shandling (November 29, 1949 - March 24, 2016). Apatow had incredible access to the comedian's life, having known him for nearly four decades, and The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling is probably the most in depth understanding of Shandling's art, life, and spiritual self. It's a wonderful examination of the life of one of the greatest stand-up comics of all times . . . his personal, artistic, and spiritual struggles. Ramos pairs this episode with Akira Kurosawa's 1952 Ikiru, featuring a touching and brilliant lead performance from Kurosawa stock player Takashi Shimura as an almost anonymous political bureaucrat who discovers he is dying from stomach cancer and becomes consumed with finding purpose for his life. These are two films that have affected Ramos deeply, an emotional and thoughtful discussion of these two films which he hopes you enjoy.

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

Vice & W. - Bush/Cheney/Rumsfeld: Power & War 

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to discuss Christian Bale (Golden Globe Winner for Best Actor) in Adam McCay's Vice. A decisive movie between the two of us, Vice has a great deal to debate. Featuring Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carrel, and Tyler Perry this was an interesting discussion for the two of us. We couple this screening with W. - Oliver Stone's 2008 biopic on the 43rd President, George W. Bush. With a lead performance from Josh Brolin, again we find ourselves with differing opinions. Take a listen as we discuss eight years of The Bush Dynasty led by George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, and Donald Rumsfeld. 

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

Thanks for the continued love and support. 

Reservoir Dogs & City on Fire - Tarantino and the late Ringo Lam

On this week's episode of WatchThis W/RickRamos, Ibrahim & I sit down to look back on Quentin Tarantino's debut, the Classic Reservoir Dogs. We look at the film, but also it's importance as a game-changer in the early 90s. We discuss the performances of Lawrence Tierney, Michael Madsen, Tim Roth, Chris Penn, Edward Bunker, and - of course - Harvey Keitel. We also take a look at Ringo Lam's 1987 Hong Kong classic, City on Fire starring the great Chow Yun-Fat. Basically two friends remembering a great and highly influential film while going back and forth regarding it's importance. This was a fun time on the mics. Take a listen and let us know what you think - gondoramos@yahoo.com. 

Thanks for your continued love and support.