S2 E39 The butler didn't do it! Then again, Dame Agatha Christie never wrote that tired cliche. Join us as we embark on a glamorous, deadly journey down the Nile as we dissect the 1978 adaptation of Dame Agatha Christie's masterpiece, "Death on the Nile", a film that perfectly balances humor, intrigue, and shocking violence against the breathtaking backdrop of Egypt.

Join us and a literal "boatload of Dames" as we discuss this film which represents the golden standard of ensemble mystery films. Dame Angela Lansbury delivers what might be her most deliciously unhinged performance as romance novelist Salome Otterbourne, Dame Maggie Smith brings razor-sharp wit as the dour companion Bowers, and Dame Bette Davis commands every scene as the wealthy kleptomaniac Mrs. Van Schuyler. At the center stands Dame Peter Ustinov, whose interpretation of Hercule Poirot captures the detective's essence perfectly, despite physical differences from Christie's literary description.

We explore why the "closed circle mystery" format works so brilliantly here, trapping a limited number of suspects on a luxury steamer where jealousy, greed, and murderous intent simmer beneath a veneer of 1930s sophistication. The film's Academy Award-winning costumes, stunning cinematography by Jack Cardiff, and Nino Rota's atmospheric score create a time machine effect, transporting viewers to a bygone era of elegance.

The episode delves into fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including the friendship between Ustinov and David Niven dating back to their military service, Bette Davis's surprising professionalism on set, and how the brutally hot Egyptian filming conditions affected production. We also examine Christie's inspiration for writing this particular mystery after her own Nile cruise, the cultural context of "Egypt-mania" that made this film timely in the 1970s, and key differences between the novel and its adaptation.

Whether you're a mystery aficionado, a fan of classic Hollywood, or someone who appreciates the art of storytelling at its finest, this episode illuminates why Death on the Nile remains superior to modern adaptations and stands as one of the most entertaining entries in Christie's filmed legacy. Join us for an episode as rich in character as it is in murder.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S2 E38

"Nobody's as good as Bette when she's bad!"

So heralded a famous movie tagline from the 1940s, and nothing could be more appropriate for today’s film, Lillian Helman's tale of mendacity in the moonlight, 1941's “The Little Foxes”. In this classic film, the one and only Bette Davis plays Regina Giddens, a woman whose ambition knows no boundaries, and whose determination knows no limit. Many film scholars herald Davis’s performance as the greatest of her career…. and we agree. Delivered in mask-like makeup with an icy and lethal hardness, it is a bold and brave performance, and one that ultimately earned her a fourth consecutive Oscar nomination. It is also one that would also irreparably damage her working relationship with her favorite director, the incomparable William Wyler.

We dive deep into the fascinating production history of this 1941 adaptation of Lillian Hellman's play, originally starring Tallulah Bankhead on Broadway. The film represents a pivotal moment in Hollywood storytelling, where female ambition collides with societal constraints in early 20th century Alabama. The resulting power struggle leads to one of cinema's most disturbing acts of passive murder – Regina simply sitting motionless while her husband suffers a heart attack, refusing to retrieve his life-saving medication.

What makes this film truly exceptional beyond Davis's performance is Gregg Toland's pioneering deep-focus cinematography, allowing multiple story elements to unfold simultaneously in razor-sharp clarity. We analyze how this technique elevates key moments, particularly the famous staircase scene, creating a visual language that perfectly complements the moral complexity of the narrative.

The film's supporting cast deserves equal attention – from Herbert Marshall's principled Horace to Teresa Wright's awakening Alexandra and Patricia Collinge's heartbreaking Birdie. Together they create a rich tapestry of characters navigating a world where foxes prey on those with "tender grapes," as suggested by the biblical source of the film's title.

Whether you're a classic film enthusiast or discovering this masterpiece for the first time, this episode reveals why "The Little Foxes" continues to resonate – showing us that sometimes the most devastating victories are the ones that leave you with everything you wanted and nothing you need. Listen now to understand why this film deserved far more than its zero wins from nine Oscar nominations, and why Davis's performance should have earned her a third Academy Award.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S2 E37 As we launch into our second season, we couldn't think of a better filmmaker to celebrate than the masterful comedic genius of Mel Brooks. We give our take on two iconic films that showcase different facets of his boundary-pushing humor: "Blazing Saddles" and "High Anxiety. A Mel Brooks, whose commitment to pushing comedy to its limits while maintaining heart and intelligence continues to inspire. What's your favorite Mel Brooks film? Let us know as we dive into a season filled with exciting themed months and special guest appearances!

Mel Brooks singing High Anxiety on YouTube.

Text us your opinion or comment

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

Tony's documentary "Mel & Hitch: Spoofing the Master of Suspense" is available on AMAZON at https://a.co/d/eOpDF3C

Mel Brooks singing High Anxiety available on YouTube.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S1 E36
It’s our Christmas episode! And what could be more appropriate than celebrating the most wonderful time of the year with one of the most joyous films ever made? From 1958, it’s “Auntie Mame.” This classic film starring the magnificent Rosalind Russell in her most iconic role has become a holiday staple for many movie fans, and captures the essence of living life to the fullest in this holiday season.

“Life is a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death!” is Auntie Mame’s motto for life, and nothing could be more appropriate for the holiday season. In today’s episode, we celebrate Russell’s iconic performance, as well as the hysterical contributions of supporting players Peggy Cass as the ugly duckling turned into the questionable swan, Agnes Gooch, the delightfully bitchy Corale Browne as Vera Charles, and of course, the unforgettable Joanna Barnes as the terribly top-drawer Gloria Upson.
In addition, we discuss the film’s origins, first as best selling book by Patrick Dennis, and then as a smash hit Broadway play starring Russell. We delve into the making of the movie in its production history, its reception, and its legacy as one of the true classic films in Hollywood history. We also touch lightly - very lightly – on the unfortunate 1974 movie musical version, “Mame”, starring Lucille Ball (it’s Christmas, after all!)

So grab your “Claude Upson daiquiris” and “Flaming Mames” and join us on a delightful holiday romp with this perennial Christmas classic!

Are we all lit??!

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S1 E35 We’re finishing off our first season of “Going Hollywood” on a high with a true masterpiece of chilling prophecy... from 1976, Paddy Chayefsky's "Network”! We explore how the film foretold the merging of news and entertainment long it became a norm at the networks. Sidney Lumet's collaboration with Chayefsky is also in the spotlight, as we discuss how their work revealed the troubling shift towards opinion-based news sources.

With legendary figures like Walter Cronkite as our backdrop, we dive into the brilliance of Chayefsky’s screenplay and the outstanding performances that brought "Network" to life. From Peter Finch’s unforgettable portrayal of Howard Beale to Faye Dunaway’s daring role as Diana Christensen, we examine the intricate characters and relationships that add to the film's biting satire.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S1 E34 We explore the 1949 masterpiece "The Heiress," starring Olivia de Havilland, Ralph Richardson, Montgomery Clift, and Miriam Hopkins. Discover how de Havilland's break from Warner Brothers led her to a role that would define an era, as we unravel the nuanced performances and emotional depth of this iconic film. With insights fresh from Brad's first viewing and Tony's long-standing admiration.

The psychological complexity of the characters takes center stage. Our episode sheds light on the intricate dynamics between old and new Tinseltown, exemplified by the riveting roles of Hopkins, Clift, and de Havilland. With Wyler's unique approach to extracting Oscar-worthy performances, we delve into the tension and artistry on set.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S1 E33 Ever wondered what it would be like if Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced "Bouquet") had a social media account in today's world? We promise you'll laugh your socks off as we explore the timeless humor of "Keeping Up Appearances,"(BBC, 1990-1995) drawing parallels between Hyacinth's endearing antics and the curated personas of modern social media influencers. Join us as we journey through the sitcom's charming world, celebrating everything from Hyacinth's infamous candlelight suppers to her hilarious misadventures that kept us all entertained across 70 countries.

We reminisce about the brilliant performances of the legendary Dame Patricia Routledge, whose portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket remains unmatched in the world of British comedy. You'll find us comparing the series with its equally iconic contemporary, "Absolutely Fabulous," highlighting how each brought its unique flavor to the genre. As we recount Hyacinth's unforgettable attempts to climb the social ladder, we also fondly recall the show's skit-like scenes and running gags that cemented its place as a timeless favorite.

Our reflections wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the legacy of creators Roy Clark and Harold Snoad and the poignant farewell of Patricia Routledge as she transitioned to "Hetty Wainthropp Investigates." We touch upon the less successful "Young Hyacinth" prequel and celebrate the original's legacy with episodes like "Three Piece Suite." Finally, we invite you to explore more British classics on BritBox, where the adventures of Hyacinth and other UK television gems await to bring joy and laughter into your living rooms once more.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

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

Tony's documentary "Mel & Hitch: Spoofing the Master of Suspense" is available on AMAZON at https://a.co/d/eOpDF3C

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks

S01 E32 Revisit a special moment with us as we relive Tony's second appearance on Brad's podcast, "Queer We Are," a conversation so rich we like to think of it as the "lost pilot" of our own show, "Going Hollywood." We discuss Tony's new documentary, "Cary Grant: The Man He Dreamed of Being" and celebrate this icon from Hollywood's golden age. We navigate the tricky waters of discussing historical figures with a focus on accuracy, steering clear of rumors and emphasizing Grant's work over speculation about his personal life. Our discussion takes a turn towards identity fluidity, connecting the dots between the past and the present, and drawing parallels with other legends like Katharine Hepburn.

Get an insider's peek into the world of Hollywood gossip with a spotlight on the formidable Hedda Hopper, whose influence could make or break a star's career. We also discuss the transformative power of Billy Wilder's "Sunset Boulevard," a masterpiece that critiques Hollywood while evolving into a campy classic over time. Our conversation doesn't stop there; we also reflect on the modern allure of stars like Brad Pitt and Paul Rudd, whose charisma and strong relationships keep them in the limelight, regardless of box office numbers. The complexities of the Oscars and Hollywood's handling of controversial stories, such as the adaptation of Truman Capote's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," further enrich our discussion. As we share anecdotes of Hollywood legends and muse on classic films, we invite you to join us for a lively and insightful journey through Tinseltown's past and present.

Text us & We'll Respond on an Episode

Links to Tony's website, and Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod

Reach us at goinghollywoodpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

Podcast logo by Umeworks