Renowned playwright and composer Stephen Dolginoff joins us to unravel the chilling narrative behind Alfred Hitchcock's "Rope" and its connection to the real-life crime of Leopold and Loeb. We promise a captivating journey through the film's thematic ties to Nietzsche's superman theory and the concept of thrill killings. As we mark the 100th anniversary of the infamous crime, Stephen shares his unique insights from crafting the musical "Thrill Me," which has mesmerized audiences worldwide with its haunting retelling of this dark chapter in history.

Hitchcock’s technical wizardry takes center stage as we explore the groundbreaking cinematic efforts that brought "Rope" to life. By using continuous takes, Hitchcock crafted a tense, immersive experience, skillfully navigating the technical challenges of his time. We also discuss the film’s nuanced depiction of a homosexual relationship, a daring move amid the constraints of the 1940s Production Code. With thoughtful casting decisions, including Jimmy Stewart's intriguing role, the film layers complexity over the suspenseful plot that continues to captivate audiences today.

Our conversation dives into the psychology behind thrill killings and the allure of true crime in art and storytelling. Stephen shares the inspiration behind "Thrill Me" and its compelling portrayal of the notorious Leopold and Loeb. We reflect on the magnetic appeal of these characters and their intellectual thrill, offering listeners a unique perspective on how historical events fuel modern narratives. This episode promises an enriching exploration of how crime, cinema, and theater intertwine, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Hitchcock’s indelible mark on film.

Learn more about Stephen Dolginoff
stephendolginoff.com
Link to "Thrill Maker" by Stephen
thrillmaker.com

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S1 E30. Uncover the secrets behind "Rosemary's Baby" and explore its eerie brilliance with us. From the haunting lullaby composed by Krzysztof Komeda to the fascinating fiction of Tannis root, we promise a new appreciation for the film's chilling scenes that still captivate audiences today. We'll discuss standout performances, notably Mia Farrow's unsettling dream sequences and Ruth Gordon's unique comedic flair, which add a layer of depth to Roman Polanski's masterpiece.

Take a step back in time to discover the legacy of the iconic Dakota building and its pivotal role in the film. We delve into Roman Polanski's casting decisions, especially his choice of comedic actors like Ruth Gordon, which added an unexpected yet fitting element to the narrative. Learn how "Rosemary's Baby" links to Hollywood's second golden age, paving the way for classic films like "Chinatown" and "The Godfather Saga" by reshaping the cinematic landscape.

Immerse yourself in a reflection on the intricate themes of paranoia and women's liberation woven into this feminist horror classic. We'll dissect how Polanski's storytelling techniques and strategic marketing contributed to the film's success, as well as the behind-the-scenes stories that add to its mystique. Join us as we ponder the film's ambiguous ending and its implications on Rosemary's autonomy, celebrating its cultural impact and Mia Farrow's pivotal role in this sinister tale.

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S1 E29 It's Halloween night in 1962, and an unsuspecting world is not quite prepared for what it is about to experience...two legendary stars from Hollywood's Golden Age unleash decades of resentment, rage, and recrimination on each other and on the movie going public. It's "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane" and movies--and movie stars--will never be the same.
Discover the captivating story behind Bette Davis and Joan Crawford's legendary and unforgettable collaboration on "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" This episode promises to take you on a journey through the complex dynamics of these two iconic actresses, with insights from an exclusive 1987 interview with Bette Davis. We promise you'll gain a whole new perspective on their fierce rivalry, their shared drive, and even the personal betrayals that haunted their lives.

Join us as we unravel the layers of "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?", a film that has left an indelible mark on both the horror and camp genres. From director Robert Aldrich's vision to the film's influence within the LGBTQ+ community, we explore the psychological horror and enduring charm that continues to captivate audiences. Hear about the film's production secrets, including the intense dynamic between Davis and Crawford, and how their performances contributed to this classic's legacy.

In our final act, we shine a spotlight on the intricate details that make this film a masterpiece—from Oscar nominations to its shocking twist ending. Learn about the casting choices that brought Victor Buono to the screen and the surprising family connections that reshaped Hollywood history. As we wrap up, we reflect on the fascinating mother-daughter acting dynamics that paralleled the careers of Davis and Crawford, promising a captivating and entertaining exploration that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

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S1 E28 It’s our “Trick or Treat” episode! And no movie is full of more tricks, or treats, than Neil Simon’s 1976 classic “Murder by Death” Packed with wit and an oddball cast of literary detectives, this 1976 film offers more than just mystery; it serves up a cocktail of laughter and intrigue. We honor the late Dame Maggie Smith and her role in this cinematic gem that turns the traditional whodunit on its head. With a plot orchestrated by the enigmatic Lionel Twain, played by Truman Capote in a rare film appearance, the twists and absurdities keep you guessing and giggling in equal measure.

We'll explore the film's satire on traditional yellow face and talk about how its humor compares to other portrayals. The brilliance of actors like Peter Falk, Alec Guinness, and the remarkable 94-year-old Estelle Winwood shines through their comedic timing and dedication to outrageous detective personas. Inspired by Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None," this parody blends various detective story styles, creating a comedic whirlwind where the real enjoyment is in the performances and not necessarily in solving the mystery.

Join us as we dissect Neil Simon's genius in crafting narratives that are both slapstick and deeply personal. His transition from lighthearted comedies to more serious narratives infused with humor showcases his versatility and lasting impact on cinema. Through memorable dialogue and chaotic twists, we'll pay tribute to the skilled cast and especially Maggie Smith, making this episode a delightful homage infused with insights into a film that feels like a bowl of cinematic trick-or-treat candy.

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S01 E27 Is "Bride of Frankenstein" the greatest horror film ever made? Join us as we dissect this 1935 classic, inspired by a listener email from Susan, and saved for our special Halloween month episode. We promise you’ll gain fresh insights into James Whale's comedic vision, which we liken to Sidney Pollack's dramatic flair in "Tootsie." We’ll debate its standing against other iconic horror films like "The Thing," and explore how humor and campiness contribute to its lasting charm.

We'll guide you through the film's significance as a sequel to 1931's "Frankenstein," noting its accessibility even for first-time viewers. Discover the film's faster pace, increased humor, and higher body count—all achieved despite the constraints of the Hays Code. From the stellar performances by Colin Clive, Elsa Lanchester, and Boris Karloff to the intricate production details, we provide a comprehensive analysis of what makes this movie a standout in the horror genre.

Finally, we’ll explore the intriguing gay subtext in Whale’s work, his openness about his sexuality, and how it influenced his films. Special effects enthusiasts will appreciate our deep dive into the craftsmanship behind the film’s iconic scenes, like Dr. Pretorius' miniature people. We’ll also share our unexpected joy in re-watching this masterpiece and reveal our top Halloween movie suggestions. Don't forget to join the conversation and share your thoughts—your input could even be featured in our next episode!

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S01 E26 Ever wondered how a simple farm life could be so hilariously absurd? Get ready to unravel the quirky world of "Green Acres" as we dive deep into its brilliant mix of comedy and surrealism. From a Sesame Street-inspired game to the surprising links with the works of Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter, we promise you’ll never look at this classic TV show the same way again. Discover how "Green Acres" pioneered a mockumentary style long before "The Office" and "Modern Family" hit our screens.

Join us as we bust myths about TV theme songs and trace the roots of "Green Acres" back to its radio beginnings. Learn how Jay Summers transitioned the concept from the 1948 radio show "Granby's Green Acres" to the small screen, and the creative liberties Paul Henning took to birth sister shows like "Petticoat Junction." We'll also explore the delightful overlaps with Lucille Ball's legacy, and how beloved actors like Gale Gordon and Bea Benaderet found their way into the "Green Acres" universe.

Finally, we spotlight the unforgettable Eva Gabor and the show's other colorful characters, including the non-binary trailblazer Ralph Monroe. With episodes featuring everything from water rights issues to automated farm inventions, "Green Acres" masterfully blends humor with commentary on bureaucracy and rural life. So, tune in for a nostalgic, enlightening, and laugh-out-loud exploration of one of TV's most unique comedies.

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S01 E25 All good things must come to an end, and that goes Darrin-double in this episode as we wrap up our "Happy Birthday, Bewitched!" episodes with the tales of Morning Glory Circle's final three years...a/k/a "The Dick Sargent Era". Join us as we celebrate and examine the show's evolution across two distinct eras and two distinct Dicks...York and Sargent. We'll take you through a journey filled with personal anecdotes, captivating moments, of the show's final years... and heartfelt tributes to Elizabeth Montgomery's timeless appeal and her bewitching legacy.

Discover the true story behind Dick York's painful struggle on set and how it impacted his unforgettable performances. We'll explore the creative ways the show adapted to York's absence and the stark contrast with his successor, Dick Sargent. From Agnes Moorehead's fierce loyalty to York to the palpable tension with Sargent, we leave no stone unturned in understanding the dynamics that shaped "Bewitched." Our conversation even touches on the show's bold decision to tackle racism in the "Sisters at Heart" episode and the whimsical charm of the Salem saga.

But that's not all – we also compare "Bewitched" with another beloved classic, "I Dream of Jeannie," sharing behind-the-scenes tidbits and personal reflections on both shows. Stay tuned as we honor Elizabeth Montgomery and Dick Sargent's legacy, including their courageous roles as grand marshals in the 1992 West Hollywood Pride Parade. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a series that has left an indelible mark on television history, perfect for both new fans and lifelong devotees.

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S01 E24 Join us for a special 60th-anniversary celebration of the classic TV show "Bewitched" as we discuss the beloved sitcom's place in television history. In this first of 2 episodes, we'll concentrate on the show's first 5 years, a/k/a - the Dick York era. We kick off the episode with some fun singing and then embark on a nostalgic journey through the rich history and trivia of this beloved series. We explore the show's origins, the initial casting choices, and the memorable pilot episode "I, Darren, Take This Witch, Samantha." We also reminisce about characters like Uncle Arthur and Aunt Clara, whose limited screen time left a lasting impact, and reflect on how the show has continued to bring joy and charm to our lives.

Did you know Elizabeth Montgomery's performance as Samantha was groundbreaking but went unrecognized by the Emmys? We take an in-depth look at her incredible but Emmy-less legacy, and the baffling decision by the Academy to leave her Emmy-less. We also discuss the impact of Dick York's replacement by Dick Sargent on the show's ratings and how Montgomery's partial ownership of "Bewitched" made her quite wealthy despite the lack of Emmy recognition. Additionally, we touch upon Montgomery's early career, her privileged upbringing, and her mentorship under Bette Davis, which all led to her iconic role in "Bewitched."

Curious about how "Bewitched" came to be and the fascinating stories behind its cast? From its iconic instrumental theme song to the multiple cast changes, we discuss how these shifts made it feel like two different shows. From on-set anecdotes to episode highlights like "A is for Aardvark" and "Allergic to Macedonian Dodo Birds," we cover the comedic brilliance and lasting impact of "Bewitched" on television. Plus, don't miss our detailed recap of the hilarious Aunt Clara blackout mishap and a teaser for part two of our celebration, where we'll explore the transition from Dick York to Dick Sargent and Elizabeth Montgomery's thoughts on "I Dream of Jeannie.

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You can find transcripts, a link to Tony's website, and a link to Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

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