Season 2: Episode 24: BOOK TO SCREEN: Psycho (1960)

Psycho (1960)
 
The granddaddy of all slasher film, Alfred Hitchcock’s low budget shocker was a milestone as he shot this in black and white with his television crew which is a huge step considering that his previous film was the technicolour masterful North by Northwest.
 
Adapted from the book by Robert Bloch with screenwriting duties by Joseph Stefano, the film would go on to be a true film classic.  The film is also the first horror film to receive four Academy Award nominations.  Often ranked as one of the greatest films  of all time and setting a new level for sex, violence and deviant behaviour in film. 
 
The film stars Anthony Perkins, Janet Lee, Martin Balsam, Vera Miles, John Gavin and Pat Hitchcock.  It also has the classic Alfred Hitchcock brief walk on.  See if you can spot it.
 
We welcome back Vincent di Sante (Never Hike Alone) who joins us on our Season 2 opener.  You can find more information about Vincent di Sante on his website:  https://www.wompstompfilms.com or you can follow them on Twitter:  https://twitter.com/wompstompfilms?lang=en or via Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/wompstompfilms/  If you want to have a special treat, make sure you watch Never Hike Alone available on YouTube now:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7K_wkQSM8xM
 
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.04); Forming the Plot (15.47); Prologue (18.45); Page to Page (19.11); Commercial Break (1:12.01); Film Trailer (1:12.44); Commercial Break (1:14.24); Lights, Camera, Action (1:14.57); Epilogue (2:29.30); End Credits (2:34.35); Closing Credits (2:36.50)
 
Opening Credits:  Prelude – From the motion picture soundtrack Psycho – composed by Bernard Herrman.
 
Closing Credits: Sweet But Psycho – by Ava Max – Taken from the album Sweet But Psycho.
 
All rights reserved.
 
All songs are available through Amazon.

Season : Episode 23 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Season in Review

Please excuse our technical issues during this issue.  We had a storm which effected our audio a little.  We have endeavoured to ensure that we have edited to the best of our ability.  Thank you for your support.
 
Jon Wilson, Vickie Rae and Keith Chawgo will look back over our first season and discuss our seasonal highlights which will include looking back on all our episodes.  We will also be discussing exciting news for what is coming your way in Season 2.  We will also be looking at our personal highs and lows.  This is an episode that you do not want to miss. 
 
We would like to thank all our fans and listeners who make this worthwhile.  We also would like to thank our special guest co-hosts throughout Season One which include Laurence Hyman Jackson, Vincente di Sante, C Derrick Miller, Joshua Hider, Mandie Harvey, Cassandra Swan, Robert Kirby, Matthew V Brockmeyer, Tristan Drue Rogers and John Hunt. 
 
Opening Credits (.18); Introduction/Season One Review (4.24); Commercial Break (52.33); Intermission (53.06); Commercial Break (53.26); Coming Attractions/Season Two (54.00); Closing Credits (1:13.06)
 
Opening Credits – Chatterbox Pt 2 – by Book of Love – taken from the album MMXVI – The 30th Anniversary Collection
 
Intermission – Intermission – by The Carpenters – taken from the album A Song For You
 
Closing Credits – Aquarius Apocalyptic – by Stop Light Observations – taken from the album Toogoodoo
 
All rights reserved.
 
All songs are available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 22 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Who's Tommy (1975)

Tommy (1975)
 
The first official Rock Opera, Tommy started life as a concept album written by Pete Townsend.  Inspired by the teachings of Meher Baba, a spiritual master in India also known as The Avatar.  The story centres around a blind, deaf and dumb boy who finds enlightenment playing pinball. 
 
Several of the songs such as ‘Sally Simpson’ were inspired by The Doors concert which ended in violence and John Entswistle would cover the darker themes of bullying and sexual abuse.  The album was a smashed though it did not have a clear narrative. 
 
In 1972, a concert production went into production as a one off with the London Symphony Orchestra and which would include the vocal talents of Rod Stewart, Graham Bell, Maggie Bell, Sandy Denny, Steve Winwood, Richard Harris, Richie Havens, Merry Clayton and the Who. 
 
In 1975, Ken Russell would bring the rock opera to screen which would include Jack Nicholson, Oliver Reed, Elton John, Ann Margaret, Tina Turner, Robert Powell and a host of others would form the main characters.  The film would move around and add plot points to add a more cohesive structure to the original concept album. 
 
The film would become a box office smash.  Ann Margaret would go on to earn an Academy Award nomination for her role as Tommy’s mother. 
 
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.43); Forming the Plot (8.29); Prologue (12.52); Page to Page (15.10); Commercial Break (24.51); Film Trailer (25.27); Commercial Break (27.25); Lights, Camera, Action (27.59); Epilogue (1:15.35); End Credits (1:20.11); Closing Credits (1:21.08)
 
Opening Credits – It’s A Boy/1921 – by The London Symphony Orchestra with feature vocalist Sandy Denny, Maggie Bell and Steve Winwood from the album The Who’s Tommy.
 
Closing Credits – Pinball Wizard – by Elton John from The motion Picture Soundtrack Tommy
All rights reserved.
 
Music available through Amazon.
 

Season 1: Episode 20 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Exorcist (1972)

The Exorcist (1972)
 
Based on a true story of demonic possession in 1949 which William Peter Blatty heard about whilst being a student at Georgetown University in 1950.  Aspects of the character Father Merrin were based on the British archaeologist Gerald Lankester Harding, who had excavated the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls had been found and whom Blatty had met in Beirut. Blatty has stated that Harding "was the physical model in my mind when I created the character [of Merrin], whose first name, please note, is Lankester."
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Aspects of the novel were inspired by an exorcism performed by the Jesuit priest, Fr. William S. Bowdern, who formerly taught at both St. Louis University and St. Louis University High School.
 
Recent investigative research by freelance journalist Mark Opsasnick indicates that Blatty's novel was based on an actual 1949 exorcism of a young boy from Cottage City, Maryland, whom Opsasnick refers to using the pseudonyms Robbie Mannheim and Roland Doe. The boy was sent to his relative's home on Roanoke Drive in St. Louis where most of the exorcism took place.
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Blatty refers to the Loudun possessions and the Louviers possessions throughout the story, mostly when Fr. Karras is researching possession and exorcism to present the case to his superiors.  He also has one of his characters tell a brief story about an unnamed fraudulent Spiritualist medium who had studied to be a Jesuit priest. This story can be found in Proceedings of the Society for Psychical Research, Vol. 114. 1930, in an article about fraudulent practices by Daniel Dunglas Home.
 
The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards winning two for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound Mixing.  The film would also win 4 Golden Globe Awards including Best Motion Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor and Best Screenplay. 
 
Opening Credits (.19); Introductions (1.39); Getting To Know Us (2.03); Forming the Plot (10.22); Prologue (13.30); Page to Page (14.26); Commercial Break (1:03.37); Film Trailer (1:04.03); Commercial Break (1:05.47); Lights, Camera, Action (1:06.23); Epilogue (1:51.02); End Credits (1:55.03); Closing Theme (1:56.02)
 
Opening Credits – Five Pieces for an Orchestra by The National Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Leonard Slatkin from the album ‘The Exorcist – An Original Motion Picture Soundtrack’
 
Closing Theme – Tubular Bells by Book of Love from the album ‘Lullaby’
 
All songs available from Amazon.
 
All rights reserved.
 

Season 1: Episode 21 - 2 FOR ONE: The Omen (1976) / Frailty (2001)

The Omen (1976)
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Directed by Richard Donner and written by David Seltzer, this film would be the top box office winner of 1976 and a huge commercial success.  This would also win Jerry Goldsmith's only Oscar for his richly textured soundtrack.  
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The film would bring the world three sequels and an unfavourable remake in 2006.  It is now considered a horror classic and has crossed the genre divide as being known as a true film classic and is most top films to watch.
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It has also won endless awards and considered to be an influential film that brought people back to the church upon its release in 1976.  This classic story about a child switched at birth whom maybe the son of Satan getting ready to take back his rightful place in the world.
 
Frailty (2001)
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Bill Paxton making is directorial debut with a script by Brent Hanley, this psychological thriller won over the critics for its dark portrayal of a father raising his children in the light of god with horrifying results.  
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The film is now considered a cult gem with critics urging people to discover this film which works on many levels.  This is considered one of the best horror films to come out in the 2000's.  
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The film will never be equalled and it leaves its audience with food for thought long after the screen goes black.  The film stars Matthew McConaughey, Bill Paxton and Powers Boothe.
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It also brings to the screen two amazing young actors Matt O'Leary and Jeremy Sumpter who bring innocence and knowingness to their roles which will stick with you.
 
Opening Credits (.19); Introduction (3.46); What’s New (4.10); Forming the Plot (6.51); Commercial Break (8.12); Film Trailer (8.54); Prologue (11.12); Scene by Scene (11.51); Forming the Plot (57.59); Commercial Break (58.39); Film Trailer (59.11); Lights, Camera, Action (1:01); Critic’s Choice (1:02); Epilogue (1:31.35); End Credits (1:35.04); Closing Theme (1:35.47)
 
Opening Credits – Ave Santi – by Jerry Goldsmith from the album Varese Sarabande 25th Anniversary Celebration The Omen Original Soundtrack Recording
 
Closing Credits – Kids in America by Kim Wilde – from the album Kim Wilde (self-titled album)
 
All rights reserved.
 
All songs available through Amazon

Season 1: Episode 18 BOOK TO SCREEN: Hell House (1971) / The Legend of Hell House (1973)

Written in 1971 by Richard Matheson, the book would spawn a film feature and a comic book miniseries with illustrations by Simon Fraser and adapted by Ian Edgington. 
 
The film script was written by Richard Matheson and directed by John Hough who was influential in the Hammer Horror films of the 1960/70’s.  The film was made by American International (famous for the Poe series starring Vincent Price). The film stars Clive Revill, Gloria Hunnicutt, Pamela Franklin and Roddy McDowall.  The film upon release was given a lukewarm review from critics but since that time, it is now considered a classic and has made it to top ten all time horror films.
 
Dialogue samplers from the film have been used by Anaal Nathrath, Skinny Puppy and Orbital.
 
Opening Credits (0.19.20); Welcome (3.27); What’s New (3.42); Forming the Plot (5.57); Prologue (7.20); Page to Page (8.20); Commercial (49.34); Film Trailer (50.06); Commercial (52.30); Lights, Camera, Action (53.01); Epilogue (1:51.37); End Credits (1:55.24); Closing Credits (1:56.16)
 
Opening Credits – Legend of Hell House by Demise from the album ‘Spook Show’
 
Closing Credits – Ghosts by ZZ Ward from the album ‘The Storm’.
 
All rights reserved.
 
All music is available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 17 - TWO FOR ONE: Near Dark (1987) / 30 Days of Night (2007)

Near Dark (1987)
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Directed by Kathryn Bigelow and written by Kathryn and Eric (The Hitcher) Red.  The story centres around a young man who gets mixed up with a nomadic vampire gang.  It is a cross breed of the Western, Biker and Horror genres.  Although it was a box office flop on release, it is now considered a modern horror classic. 
 
Near Dark would share three cast members from Aliens, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen and Janette Goldstein.  A cinema seen in the background early in the film has Aliens on its marquee and James Cameron played the man who flips off Severn.  James Cameron and Kathryn Bigelow would eventually marry.
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Eric Red and Kathryn Bigelow would go on to work together on Blue Steel.   Kathryn Bigelow would go on to become Hollywood’s leading female director with award winning films such as The Hurt Locker, Blue Steel, Point Break and Zero Dark Thirty to name a few. 
 
30 Days of Night (2007)
 
Based on the comic book miniseries by Steve Niles, this 2007 film stars Melissa George, Josh Hartnett, Ben Foster and Danny Huston.   The film was directed by David Slade and written by Stuart Beatties and Steve Niles.
 
Sticking closely to the comic miniseries, Steve Niles would work on the screenplay.  Stuart Beatties would later come in and flesh out the characters for the film medium.  The film would focus on an Alaskan town where there is 30 Days of Night or a polar night.  The film would cost $30million to make but would earn back over $70million turning it into a cult classic. 
 
DVD and Blu-Ray sales would make it a smash success on the home video market.  The film would lead to a straight to video sequel release which garnered poor reviews but sticks more faithfully to the comic miniseries. 
 
Opening Theme (.19); Introduction (2.06); Getting To Know You (2.20); Forming the Plot (5.33); Commercial (11.14); Film Trailer (11.40); Prologue (14.00); Scene by Scene (14.37); Plot Thickens (43.10); Commercial (45.53); Film Trailer (46.23); Lights, Camera Action (48.37); Critic’s Choice (49.19); Epilogue (1:25.04); End Credits (1:28.10); Closing Credits (1:37.01)
 
Opening Credits – Let The Games Begin by Stu Phillips from the Original Soundtrack Recording ‘Beyond the Valley of the Dolls’
 
Closing Credits – Vampire Smile by Kyla LaGrange taken from the Album ‘Ashes’
 
All rights reserved.
 
All songs are available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 16 - BOOK TO SCREEN: Jaws (1975)

After Peter Benchley became interested in shark attacks and after he learned about the exploits of shark hunter, Frank Mundus in 1965.  In 1971, Doubleday commissioned Benchley to write a novel.  The hardback would stay on the best seller list for over 44 weeks in 1974.
 
Richard D Zanuk and David Brown would buy the rights before the book was published and hired Steven Spielberg to direct.  The film became box office gold in 1975 becoming one of the highest grossing films of all times.  It would win three Academy Awards for Best Film Editing, Best Original Film Score and Best Sound.
 
We are joined by special guest co-host John Hunt, author of Dollhouse and The Tracker, out now.  
 
Opening Credits (.21); Introduction (4.06); Monthly Topic (4.38); Forming the Plot (9.03); Prologue (14.46); Page to Page (15.29); Commercial Break (56.33); Interview with John Hunt (57.23); Commercial Break (1:13.44); Film Trailer (1:14.08); Lights, Camera, Action (1:17.40); Epilogue (1:52.57) End Credits (2:04.03); Closing Credits (2:05.10)
 
Opening Credits – Theme from Jaws by John Williams available on the Album Jaws – Special Edition Original Soundtrack.
 
Closing Credits – Shark in the Water by VV Brown available on the album Traveling Like the Light.
 
All rights reserved.
 
Songs and albums are available on Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 15 - 2 FOR ONE: Murder by Death (1974) / Clue (1985)

Murder by Death (1974)
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1976 American satirical mystery comedy film with a cast featuring Eileen Brennan, Truman Capote, James Coco, Peter Falk, Alec Guinness, Elsa Lanchester, David Niven, Peter Sellers, Maggie Smith, Nancy Walker, and Estelle Winwood, written by Neil Simon and directed by Robert Moore. 
 
The plot is a broad parody or spoof of the traditional country-house whodunit, familiar to mystery fiction fans of classics such as Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None. The cast is an ensemble of British and American actors playing send-ups of well-known fictional sleuths, including Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Charlie Chan, Nick and Nora Charles, and Sam Spade. It also features a rare acting performance by author Truman Capote.
 
Charles Addams (creator of the Addams Family) would design the drawings used in the opening and closing credits and the poster. 
 
Clue (1985)
 
The 1985 film based on a Hasbro board game of the same name starred Leslie Ann Warren, Madeleine Kahn, Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Martin Mull, Christopher Lloyd and Michael McKean.  In keeping with the board game, the film has three different endings and on its original release, the ending would depend on which theatre you saw the film.  All three endings were included in the video release.  The film was direced by Jonathan Lynn and Written by John Landis and Jonathan Lynn.
 
A fourth ending was also filmed but this was later cascaded after John Landis thought it was not good enough.  In the unused forth ending,  Wadsworth committed all of the murders. He was motivated by his desire for perfection. Having failed to be either the perfect husband or the perfect butler, he decided to be the perfect murderer instead. Wadsworth reports that he poisoned the champagne the guests had drunk earlier so they would soon die, leaving no witnesses. The police and the FBI arrive, and Wadsworth is arrested. He breaks free and steals a police car, but his escape is thwarted when three police dogs lunge from the back seat.
 
The multiple ending concept was developed by John Landis and originally playwright Tom Stoppard, Stephen Sondheim and Anthony Perkins were going to write the screenplay.  A box office flop on its original release it has now become a cult classic.
 
A remake by Gore Verbinski is currently in discussion and the film was honoured in the television series Psych with special guests stars Christopher Lloyd, Martin Mull and Lesley Ann Warren would play suspects in a murder case.  The episode, in addition to many jokes and themes in homage to the film, includes multiple endings in which the audience (separately for east and west coast viewership) decides who is the real killer. The episode was dedicated to the memory of Madeline Kahn. 
Opening Credits (.19); Introduction (2.38); Murder Mystery (3.01); Forming the Plot (8.40); Commercial Break (10.37); Murder by Death Film Trailer (11.07); Prologue (14.13); Scene by Scene (15.04); Forming the Plot Clue (38.47); Commercial Break (40.24); Clue Film Trailer (40.57); Lights Camera Action (47.10); Critic’s Choice (43.07); Epilogue (1:17.30); Personal Preference (1:20.30); End Credits (1:25.03); Closing Credits (1:26.03)
 
Opening Credits – Let the Games Begin by Stu Phillips from the album Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Beyond the Valley of the Dolls.
 
Closing Credits – Everybody Loves A Nut by Johnny Cash from the album Everybody Loves A Nut.
 
All Rights Reserved
 
All songs available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 14 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Circus of Dr Lao (1935) / 7 Faces of Dr Lao (1964)

The book won the 1935 Inaugural National Book award for most original book.  Set in the fictional town of Abalone, Arizona, whose inhabitants epitomize ordinary Americans as they are simultaneously backhandedly celebrated and lovingly pilloried for their emergent reactions to the wonders of magic and of everyday life. 
The film was script was written by Charles Beaumont which has a stellar cast of character actors and Tony Randall playing seven roles including the title character.  The film would receive a special Academy Award for make-up and nomination for special effects. 
Interesting facts about the film is that the Crystal Ball and Hourglass from the Wizard of Oz makes an appearance in the film along with the two headed turtle which would be featured in The Adams Family for a few episodes. 
We are joined by our special guest co-host Tristan Drue Rogers who will be us to discuss all things Dr Lao and his new book Brothers of Blood out in July 2018.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.19); Fantasy Character (3.56); Forming the Plot (7.02); Prologue (8.33); Page to Page (8.59); Commercial Break (39.08); Interview with Tristan Drue Rogers (39.41); Commercial Break (45.32); Film Trailer (46.07); Lights, Camera, Action (49.28); Epilogue (1:17.01), End Credits (1.22.31)
Opening Credits – Theme from the 7 Faces of Dr Lao – Music by Leigh Harline from the Soundtrack album 7 Faces of Dr Lao
Closing Credits – Everything is Beautiful – by Kianne Marie from the album Everything is Beautiful
All rights reserved
Music available from Amazon.
 
 

Season 1: Episode 13 - 2 FOR ONE: Reefer Madness (1936)/Reefer Madness The Movie Musical (2004)

Reefer Madness, 1936 American propaganda film revolving around the melodramatic events that ensue when high school students are lured by pushers to try marijuana—from a hit and run accident, to manslaughter, suicide, attempted rape, hallucinations, and descent into madness due to marijuana addiction. The film was directed by Louis Gasnier and featured a cast of mainly little-known actors.
Originally financed by a church group, the film was bought and shown on the exploitation circuit between 1938 – 39.  The copyright fell by the wayside until 1970 when the film was rediscovered as an unintentional satire about marijuana use.  Since then, the film is shown on the midnight madness circuit with even a colorized version made available which helps camp up the original film to another degree.   It is known as one of the worst films every made and holds its crown up there with Plan 9 from Outer Space.
Reefer Madness The Musical started life in Los Angeles and moved to Off Broadway where it closed shortly after due to 9/11.  The show was then filmed for Showtime in 2008 to critical acclaim.  Filmed using three of the original Broadway cast which includes Kristen Bell, Christian Campbell and Robert Torti, it added Steven Weber, Neve Campbell, Ana Gasteyer, Alan Cummings and Amy Spanger.  The film went on to win numerous awards and even a Emmy for best original song.  It has since went on to be a cult favour and in turn, has given the stage show a new lease on life where it has premiered around the world to critical acclaim and earning multiple awards.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.18); Forming the Plot (9.18); Commercial (14.20) Reefer Madness 1936 Trailer (14.53); Prologue (16.47); Scene by Scene (17.44); Commercial (34.56); Reefer Madness The Musical 2004 Trailer (35.29); Lights, Camera, Action (37.29); Critics Choice (38.29); Epilogue (1:03.59); End Credits (1:10.42)
Opening Credits – Reefer Madness End Credits – from the Motion Picture Soundtrack Reefer Madness the Musical.
Closing Credits – Marahuana by Bette Midler from the album Songs For A New Depression
All Rights Reserved.
Music and films are available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 12 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Across the Universe (2004)

This 2007 film stars Rachel Evans Wood, Jim Sturgess, Joe Anderson, TV Carpio, Dana Fuchs and Martin Luther McCoy and special guest appearances by Bono, Eddie Izzard, Joe Cocker and Salma Hayek, amongst others. 
 
The film was nominated for Golden Globe and Academy Awards.  It would also make the top ten lists of the year by several film critics.
 
The story is told mostly through song and imagery with very little dialogue.  All the actors would sing live to the music track whilst filming.  Giving a view of life during the 60’s through to 1970 America gives the film scope and with Julie Taymor’s efficient eye delivers on all fronts.  This exciting film pulls out all stop to give an audio and visual extravaganza. 
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Opening Credits (.21); Introduction (3.42); Spinning Off (3.57); Commercial (9.30); Film Trailer (10.03); Commercial (12.28); Critiquing the Spin (12.59); Closing Credits (53.29)
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Opening Credits - Across the Universe - Jim Sturgess from the album Across the Universe (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
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Closing Credits - Happiness is a Warm Gun - Joe Anderson and Salma Hayek from the album Across the Universe  (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
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All rights reserved.
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Soundtrack and film available on Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 11 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Bad Seed (1956)

The Bad Seed tells the story of Rhoda Penmark, the picture perfect child who harbors a villainous demeanour. 
 
The Bad Seed was a best selling book which was turned in to a Broadway sensation earning a Tony Award for Nancy Kelly in the part of Christine Penmark.  It was also nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in 1955.  The film would bring almost the entire Broadway cast to the screen and would garner four Oscar nominations. 
 
Examining the theme of nurture over nature, the film and book opens plenty of questions and leaves it to the audience to come up with their own conclusions.
 
Opening Titles (0.21); Introduction (2.30); Forming the Plot (7.45); Prologue (11.10); Page to Page (11.59); Commercial Break (1:05.30); Screen Testing/Casting (1:06.28); Commercial (1:09.46); Lights, Camera Action (1:10.22); Epilogue (2:07.27); End Credits (2:10.55)
 
Opening Credits – The Bad Seed – by Alex North from the album The Bad Seed (Original Soundtrack Recording)
 
Closing Credits – In These Shoes – by Kirsty MacColl from the album Tropical Brainstorm
 
All rights reserved.
 
All songs can be purchased through Amazon.  Book and Film available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 10 - SPECIAL EPISODE: The Strangers (2008)

The Strangers written and directed by Bryan Bertino is tells the perceived safety of pastoral life and explores stranger on stranger violence.  Taken its cue from the Manson murders of 1969 and a series of break-ins that occurred in his neighbourhood as a child, Bertino filmed a thriller that questions ones safety in their own home. 
 
Starring Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman play the couple whom seem to have stepped out of an Ingmar Bergman film which ultimately branding the film as naturalistic domestic horror.  It also gives a nod to undermining the notion that rural America is more dangerous that the suburbs and city living creating a provincial violence within the confines of its setting. 
 
The film is loosely based on a true story which takes its nod from the Manson Tate Murders and The Keddie Cabin Murders of 1981.  The sequel, The Strangers:  Prey at Night will be released in March 2018. 
 
Opening Credits; Welcome/Introductions (1.24); Spinning Off (1.40); Strange Encounters (2.00); Commercial (9.80); Film Trailer (10.14); Commercial (12.80); What’s the Plot (12.50); Critiquing the Spin (13.25); Closing Credits (1:00.49)
 
Opening Credits – Let the Games Begin – from the Beyond the Valley of the Dolls Soundtrack, music composed and arranged by Stu Phillips
 
Closing Credits – Let’s Kill Tonight – from the album Virtues and Vices by Panic at the Disco
 
All rights reserved.
 
Songs available through Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 9 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Amityville Horror (1979)

Book written by Jay Anson/Film directed by Stuart Rosenberg
The Amityville Horror was a best seller book that advertised itself as a True Story which would take the world by the storm to become a media franchise that still lives today. 
The basic history is that in 1974, Ronald DeFeo killed his family allegedly after hearing voices telling him to murder his family.  One year later, George and Kathy Lutz and their three children move into the property where they experienced a haunting which would cause them to leave their house and personal belongs 28 days after moving in.
We discuss the DeFeo Murders, the Lutz Family and all things Amityville.  We look at the book and film and our feelings of the haunting and the mass media storm that would define true life horror to the pinnacle of what it is today.  Come join us to discuss the phenomenon which is the Amityville Horror with your co-hosts Keith Chawgo, Jon Wilson and Vickie Rae and special guest Matthew V Brockmeyer, author of Kind Nepenthe. 
Opening Credits; Welcome (3.08); Introduction (3.28); Forming the Plot (10.09); Prologue (17.09); Page to Page (17.46); Commercial (1:33.08); Interview with Matthew V Brockmeyer (1:33.41); Commercial (1:40.11); Screen Testing and Casting (1:40.44); Lights, Camera, Action (1:43.13); Epilogue (2:17.03); End Credits (2:27.26); Closing Credits (2:27.46)
Opening Credits – Amityville Horror Main Titles by Lalo Schifrin taken from the original motion picture soundtrack The Amityville Horror.
Closing Credits – Get Out Of My House by Kate Bush taken from the album The Dreaming
All rights are reserved.
Music available on Amazon.
Matthew Brockmeyer lives in an off-grid cabin deep in the forest of Northern California with his wife and two children. In his off time he enjoys howling at the moon and bathing his fangs in human blood. He is the author of the novel KIND NEPENTHE: A Savage Tale of Terror Set in the Heart of California's Marijuana Country.
KIND NEPENTHE synopis is as follows:
Rebecca thought she'd find a hippie paradise when she moved to the desolate back hills of Humboldt County. A place to commune with nature and teach her five-year-old daughter how to live off the land. Instead she discovered a nightmare.
Coyote is a washed-up pot grower. Strung out on pills and dealing with dropping prices and looming legalization, he wonders if it's even worth it anymore. Diesel Dan abandoned his son for a life of methamphetamine and prison. Now he wants to make amends. He's going to be a grandfather. But his son is on the same dark road of drugs and violence that once consumed him. These characters will come together in an explosive ending that will leave you stunned and breathless. But more than just a gripping horror novel, Kind Nepenthe is a deep examination into the nature of love and greed, lost ideals, and the essence of evil in one of the last frontiers of the American West.
Kind Nepenthe is out now.
To connect with Matthew, please click on the links below.  To buy one of the best new novels of 2017, click on the book below to get your copy.  You will not be disappointed.
Kind Nepenthe
Website
Facebook
Goodreads

Season 1: Episode 8 - BOOK TO SCREEN: Turn of the Screw (1898) / The Innocents (1961)

Season 1:  Episode 6 -  The Turn of the Screw by Henry James/The Innocents directed by Jack Clayton
Henry James novella mixes two genres, the gothic and ghost stories, to make an eerie classic that stays imbedded into the subconscious long after you put it down.  Due to the original content, scholars have argued about the interpretations found within its pages.  Many have argued about the evil hinted at the stories, which leads to its brilliance as its power is in the creating an intimate sense of confusion and suspense. 
James would rewrite the story numerous times through his life span which would include subtle changes such as changing the children’s ages.
In 1961, Jack Clayton would bring the story to the screen starring Deborah Kerr, Michael Redgrave and Megs Jenkins .  With a script by Truman Capote and John Mortimer, the psychological horror would achieve its effects through lighting, music and direction rather than conventional shocks.  Cinematographer, Freddie Francis would employ deep focus in many scenes, as well as bold, minimal lighting. 
The James classic would be adapted into a Broadway play, a ballet and there is even a prequel called The Newcomer starring Marlon Brando.  There has even been countless foreign adaptions and even the basis of the Quentin Collins storyline explored in the classic gothic horror soap opera ‘Dark Shadows.
Interesting facts about the film is that Kate Bush’s The Infant Kiss is inspired by the film and audio tracks were sampled in the cursed tape of the 2002 film, The Ring.
We are joined by our marketing manager Vickie Rae. 
Opening Credits; Introduction (3.47); Childhood Scary Experience (4.23); Forming the Plot (11.08); Prologue (12.23); Page to Page (13.15); Commercial Break (51.52); Screen Testing/Casting (52.22); Lights, Camera, Action (55.26); Epilogue (1:55.20); End Credits (1:59.01); Closing Theme (2:00.08)
Opening Credits - O Willow Waly - by Ashley Serena
Closing Credits - The Infant Kiss by Kate Bush from the album 'Never for Ever'
All Rights Reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
We would like to thank Ashley Serena for her beautiful rendition of 'O Willow Waly' who kindly gave us permission to especially use for this episode of the Literary License Podcast.  You can follow Ashley Serena on her social media accounts and listen to her music on i-Tune, Soundcloud and Spotify.  Go to our website:  www.llpodcast.com to connect with her, you will not be disappointed.
 

Season 1: Episode 7 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Beyond the Valley of the Dolls (1970)

Originally filmed as a sequel to Valley of the Dolls, it was later as a parody to the commercially successful and critically reviled original Valley of the Dolls. Script by Roger Ebert and directed by Russ Meyer. 
Released with the classification X, Meyer wanted to add more sex to the film but Fox wanted a quick released.  In 1990, it was re-classified as NC-17.  This cult classic is a simultaneous satire, serious melodrama, rock musical, comedy, violent exploitation , skin flick and moralistic expose. 
Made for $900,000, the film would become a massive hit making $40 million at the box office.  The film would also influence popular culture from Austin Powers, rock bands and computer games.
We will be discussing this classic cult film with C Derick Miller. 
Opening Credits; Introduction (1.13); Interview with C Derick Miller (2.36); Commercial (30.17); Film Trailer (30.52); Spinning Off (33.26); What’s the Plot (35.34); Critiquing the Spin (36.24); Closing Credits (1:27.01)
 
Opening Credits – Let the Games Begin – from the soundtrack album ‘Beyond the Valley of the Dolls', music composed and arranged by Stu Phillips.
 
Closing Credits – Come with the Gentle People – from the soundtrack album ‘Beyond the Valley of the Dolls' - vocals by Lynn Carey, music composed and arranged by Stu Phillips
All Rights Reserved.
C. Derick Miller is a dark fiction author, poet, and ASCAP songwriter born in the town of Greenville, Texas. A seasoned paranormal investigator and traveller for the art industry, his notable works include the Texas werewolf novel 'A Taste Of Home', the short story 'Nemesis' from the Beast Anthology, and the lyrics to various songs on Whiskeyhat's debut EP 'El Gallo Diablo'. Upcoming works include 'Diary Of A Gonzo Ghost Hunter', the sequel to his 2016 Texas werewolf novel titled 'Far From Home', and a dark fiction tale of demons titled 'Extinguished'. Influences include Hunter S. Thompson, Kevin Smith, Shawn Mullins, and Del James.

Season 1: Episode 6 - SPECIAL EPISODE: Never Hike Alone (2017)

A hiker’s survival skills are put to the test, when he stumbles upon the remains of an old abandoned camp and discovers its long dark secrets.
Vincente di Santi will be joining us to discuss his career and his fan film ‘Never Hike Alone’.  Di Santi is a writer, voice actor, director and actor who has written and directed the 2015 short ‘The Red Room’, additional dialogue for the 2016 animated film, ‘Rock Dog’ and his new short ‘Don’t Hike Alone’.  This is a name that we think will make it big and we can’t wait to see what he has planned for the future.
You can follow Vincente di Santi via Facebook at or at his production company, Womp Stomp Films or his YouTube channel 
Opening Credits; Introduction and Interview (1.12); Trailer (1:33.37); Closing Credits (1:36.15)
Opening Credits - Let the Games Begin – from the album ‘Beyond the Valley of the Dolls’ , music composed and arranged by Stu Phillips
Closing Credits – Do You Hear What I Hear/You Really Got Me – from the Album Christmas Party with Eddie G – Performed by Bobby Lloyd and the Skeltons
All music available at Amazon.
All Rights Reserved.
 

Season 1: Episode 5 - BOOK TO SCREEN: In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash (1966) / A Christmas Story (1983)

The screenplay of A Christmas Story is based on Jean Shepherd’s In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash, three semi-autobiographical posts published in Playboy from 1964 and 1966.  Other stories which include Flick’s Tongue was told on his WOR Radio Talk Show in 1968.  Other stories found within the feature can be found whilst giving talks on his college tour circuit. 
The Red Ryder BB Gun came out in 1968 and is still available today. 
Jon and Keith discuss their special Christmas memories and discuss the book and the seasonal favourite.  We also have an interview with Tripp Whetsell.Co
​Opening Credits; Introduction (4.03); Memorable Christmas (4.31); Forming the Plot (8.32); Prologue (9.43); Page to Page (10.08);  Commercial (55.50); Interview with Tripp Whetsell (56.11); Film Trailer (1:15.21); Lights, Camera, Action (1:17.43); Epilogue (1:56.03); End Credits (1.58.57)
​Opening Credits - It's Christmas Eve - from the album A Christmas Horror Story (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Alex Khaskin 
​Closing Credits - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - from the album Ella's Swinging Christmas by Ella Fitzgerald
​All songs are available on Amazon.
​All rights are reserved.
Tripp Whetsell is a New York City-based author, ghostwriter, journalist, public relations and editorial consultant with more than two decades of experience. His dual background brings a solid understanding of how the media works and a unique perspective, both to the subjects he writes about and the clients he represents.
He has published three books and hundreds of original articles that have appeared in dozens of New York and nationally-based magazines, newspapers and online outlets.   
His new book, The Improv:  An Oral History of the Comedy Club that Revolutionised Stand Up is out now and available on Amazon.

Season 1: Episode 4 - BOOK TO SCREEN: The Road (2009)

The Literary License Podcast presents Cormac McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Road with film directed by John Hillcoat with script by Joe Penhall
 
Joining Keith Chawgo and Jon Wilson is special co-host Cassandra Swan, the author of The Alibi Room an anthology of her work which includes her award-winning poetry.
 
Opening Credits; Introduction (02.43), Interview with Cassandra Swan (03.15); Memorable Road Trips (11.29); Forming the Plot (17.08); Prologue (19.50); Page to Page (20.09) Commercial Break (56.51); Film Trailer (56.57); Lights, Camera, Action (59.23); Epilogue (1.43.06); End Credits (1.45.52); Closing Theme (1.46.59)
 
Opening Theme – Home – Nick Cave and Warren Ellis – taken from the album The Road – Original Soundtrack Recording
Closing Theme – Far From Any Road by The Handsome Family – taken from the album Singing Bones.
 
All themes are available to buy on Amazon.
All rights are reserved.
 
The Alibi Room by Cassandra Swan is available on Amazon
You can also see her amazing work on Youtube which includes The Pocket Size Wreath and Hammer.  
 
You can follow us on Facebook, join our Facebook Group, Twitter or on our webpage.  Come join the party.