The New World Pictures Podcast

We continue the laughs this week in our #HAHAugust episode. Polish your jokes and put on your suspenders as you take the mic at 1983's THE FUNNY FARM! Written and directed by Ron Clark in his debut after working with Mel Brooks on the scripts for HIGH ANXIETY and THE SILENT MOVIE, this stars Peter Aykroyd,  Howie Mandel, and even more Canadian comics. The film follows a budding comedian (Miles Chapin) and a group of ambitious young comics as they strive to make it in the LA comedy scene, but only one can find a steady girlfriend and a club to work in after only one night in town (also Chapin). In this episode we are joined by special return guest Ali Davis, who you may remember from our previous episodes COVER GIRL MODELS, and GODZILLA 1985. Laugh with us as we learn about improv for dogs, debate if strip clubs have bathrooms, and reminisce about each of our cross-country drives.

We continue #HAHAugust, our celebration of the comedies of New World Pictures, with an interview about one of classic comedies to emerge from Roger Corman's New World Pictures, 1979's ROCK 'N' ROLL HIGH SCHOOL! Joining us to talk about the film is author Stephen B. Armstrong, who just wrote a book on the subject called I Want You Around: The Ramones and the Making of Rock 'n' Roll High School, editor Mark Helfrich, who got his start on the movie as a production assistant and assistant editor, and the movie's director, Allan Arkush, who also spent years working at New World editing trailers for the company.  If you are a fan of this movie, you don't want to miss this episode! We discuss the many iterations of the script, Arkush's journey with the Ramones, how New World fought the movie internally, and much more!  For more about Stephen, visit his website, https://stephen-b-armstrong.com/, and buy his book wherever books are sold!  For the video about The Wiltern mentioned by Mark and Allan, head here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ti49ckZZNFI And for the GET CRAZY video Allan mentions on the episode, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMlpF76gRz0 For more about the podcast, please visit:  https://newworldpicturespodcast.com/

We are kicking off #HAHAugust, which could be the most hilarious month of the year! Put your feet on the coffee table and don't use a coaster while you hop onto YouTube and feast your eyes on 1984’s BAD MANNERS (aka GROWING PAINS), co-written and directed by Robert "Bobby" Houston, and starring the late, great Martin Mull and Karen Black as foster parents who find that their new addition can't separate himself from his previous family of orphans, one of which is played by a young Pamela Adlon (King of the Hill, Better Things, Facts of Life). In this episode we are joined by special guest Peter Fluet, who you may remember from previous episodes Power Pack, Generation X, and STAR CRYSTAL. With Peter's help we put manners aside to attempt to make sense of this rude, and truly ridiculous film that somehow has a theme song from Sparks? Ryan shares a truly shocking bit of research, Marc crunches cars and, of course, Erica keeps the titty count. For more information on the podcast, visit www.newworldpodcast.com.

We talk with former New World Pictures editors, Kevin Sewelson and Dave Parker.  Both Kevin and Dave started out as trailer editors during the last few years of New World Picture's existence.  Kevin also edited 1988's IN THE AFTERMATH for New World and we discuss the challenge of creating a story blending live action with Mamoru Ishii's 1985 anime ANGEL'S EGG.  Kevin and Dave describe the challenges of creating a story and dialogue to weave the two different stories into a cohesive unit. We learn about the set in Fontana and the rock bottom pricing New World Pictures paid to shoot there after THE RUNNING MAN had completed filming at the same location.  This episode is chock full of interesting behind-the-scenes stories.  We learn about Kevin and Dave's early days at New World Pictures pulling all-nighters in the editing room in the former Lion's Gate studio, and how New World went from being flush with money to the slow demise of the studio and all the new ventures that sprung from the talent that left.  We also get to discuss a couple NWPP favorites including GODZILLA 1985, 18 AGAIN!, HEATHERS, FLOWERS IN THE ATTIC, and one of Marc's favorites, ANGEL OF DEATH. Dave also tells an incredible story about a never-seen trailer he cut for HELLRAISER 2.   It's a fascinating and fun interview and we're incredibly grateful to Dave and Kevin for taking time to chat with us.  Enjoy the interview!

We continue #SciFiJuly presents #DystopianSummer with 1988's IN THE AFTERMATH! Never heard of it? You're not alone! A mixture of Mamoru Oshii's 1985 anime ANGEL'S EGG and live-action, dystopian footage directed by New World's then Head of post-production, Carl Colpaert, the film is a wild mix that skipped theatrical release and went straight to video near the end of the 2nd era of New World Pictures. Joining us for this episode is returning guest Dirk Marshall, who we had to have on after he covered ANGEL'S EGG on the VH US podcast (https://www.vh-us.com/). What did Dirk think of the blend of the two films? Listen to find out! Did Erica realize it was two films?  Listen and find out! What is Marc's pet peeve about July 4th parties? You'll have to listen to find out!  Follow Dirk here: https://x.com/VHUS_Podcast For more information about the podcast, go to https://newworldpicturespodcast.com/.  

Our #SciFiJuly Presents #DystopianSummer continues with an interview with DEAD END DRIVE-IN director Brian Trenchard-Smith! From the beginnings with the script to the purchase of the movie by New World Pictures at the Cannes Film Festival, Brian tells us all about the journey of his film, while also telling tales about a few of his other films, including DAY OF THE PANTHER and THE MAN FROM HONG KONG! Perhaps fittingly, Brian spoke to us while sitting outside during a heat wave, but that didn't damper his spirits as he told us about the importance of having a good mechanic, gave a sweet eulogy to the late, great Grant Page, broke down the MAD MAX franchise, and described how they shot two stunt sequences for DEAD END DRIVE-IN on the same day.  Don't miss this interview with an exploitation legend!   

We continue with #SciFiJuly Presents #DystopianSummer with a Nearly New World that is very close to the hearts of (most of) the hosts of this show: John Carpenter's ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK. No, this was not released by New World Pictures, but, fret not, we will explain how we fit into our Nearly New World series.  Will the hosts gush about the movie? Yes! Will they offer criticisms? Kind of, a little! They will also discuss  why this movie is so important to (most of) them,  offer their own Letterboxd synopses, and of course, compare the original to ESCAPE FROM L.A.  Will Henry Thomas ever listen to this show after this? Doubtful! But you can listen to every episode and follow along with the #DystopianSummer here: https://newworldpicturespodcast.com/    

We kick off #SCI-FI-JULY Presents: Dystopian Summer with one of the all time classic Australian dystopian action films, 1986's DEAD END DRIVE IN.  Directed by Brian Trenchard-Smith and starring Ned Manning and Natalie McCurry, DEAD END DRIVE IN has everything you want from a movie set in a dystopian future - crazy car chases, crazier outfits and a drive in movie theater where you can get in, but you can't get out. With a killer soundtrack and a wild set piece, it's hard not to love DEAD END DRIVE IN.  We were so excited to talk about this movie that we had to break away from our usual episode structure.  Why wait for "final questions" when we can ask throughout the episode?  We talk about unconventional workout routines, Marc's love of Pepsi (of course), the evolution of drive-in theater technology, fashion forward hairstyles and blanket issues.  This episode also holds the record for the most times we've said the word, "dystopian" in a single episode. 

We continue #JuneVROOM with 1971’s ANGELS HARD AS THEY COME, co written and produced by Jonathan Demme and starring Scott Glenn as Long John and Charles Dierkop as the General, two rival Bikers who are at odds over the murder of an innocent woman. Also starring the one and only Gary Busey as Henry, the peace seeking desert Hippie. Join Long Marc, Glasses, and Dome as they reminisce about their first viewing of this film, the pros and cons of ketosis, and dissect the sights and smells of the biker ghost town. For more about the podcast, go to https://newworldpicturespodcast.com/.

We continue #JuneVROOM with 1976's THE GREAT TEXAS DYNAMITE CHASE starring Claudia Jennings and Jocelyn Jones as two women who decide to go on a crime spree of robbing banks with dynamite! But, is that the best plan for robbing a bank? How harmful is too much grout in a shower? And what exactly are "meats and cheese?" We attempt to answer all these questions, plus, we dissect the sound of a dud piece of dynamite, Erica finds herself turning a corner with this month's selections, Ryan get emotional, and Marc gets personal with a story of childhood dynamite.  Rubs your hands together in excitement for this one and sit down on your bun and listen!

We are kicking off #juneVROOM otherwise known as J. Marc's Joyous June with Gone in 60 Seconds.  Not THAT Gone in 60 Seconds.  The original from 1974 directed by and starring H. B. Halicki (THE JUNKMAN). As is customary with the New World Pictures podcast we take a deep dive into a movie that starts slow and ends with a 40 minute car chase scene that might be one of the best ever filmed.  It's a really great scene.  You should watch it. Erica reveals to Ryan and Marc that her Uncle owned a peculiar car security company who's jingle may or may not have been the inspiration of "Welcome to the Jungle". Marc proclaims to the voice and face of a new generation.  We talk a lot about Long Beach (CA not NY) and the state of LAX in 1974 and we introduce new sponsorship opportunities for Pepsi.  You listening Pepsi?  Be our sponsor.  

Sadly friends, it’s the end of Marc’s Miserable MARVELous May II, where we celebrate the New World Pictures era of Marvel, and we wanted to send it off with a celebration and ranking of the 1970s and 1980s Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with our special guest - returning from last year's 90s MCU ranking - filmmaker and actor Tarik Davis.   We rank our top 8 from this list of Marvel movie classics:  Spider-Man (1977), Dr. Strange (1978), Captain America and Captain America II: Death Too Soon (1979), Howard the Duck (1986), The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988), The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989) and The Punisher (1989). And how we rank these will surprise you!   We also discuss a potential a new nickname for Erica and Tarik's friendship. We talk about the movie selection process of Little Ryan.  And, of course, we talk about that time Marc opened up and PRAISED a Marvel movie!  You won't want to miss this! For more about Tarik, head here: https://tarikdavis.com/. For more about the podcast, go to www.newworldpicturespodcast.com.

Roger Corman passed away on May 9, 2024, and we knew we wanted to do something special to commemorate his passing, so we are lucky to be joined by director/editors Allan Arkush (HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD, ROCK 'N' ROLL HIGH SCHOOL), Allan Holzman (FORBIDDEN WORLD), and Tony Randel (HELLBOUND: HELLRAISER 2) to discuss their careers and memories working with Roger. We hope you enjoy this tribute. Hail to the king! 

Marc's Miserable MARVELous May II continues with 1989's THE PUNISHER! For this Dolph Lundgren classic, we brought out the big guns with our friend and New World Super Fan Justin Grams! Will Marc withstand the very first Punisher comic book adaptation? Will he finally like a Marvel movie? Anything can happen when you combine producer Robert Mark Kamen (KARATE KID/THE TRANSPORTER) and director Mark Goldblatt (DEAD HEAT)! Justin, Ryan, and Erica will try to keep him entertained with a possible Punisher musical, the lowdown on New World Pictures (Australia) and all the deleted footage from the workprint,, and the ultimate cure for sewer throat! But will he be able to look past the "American accents" of the Australian actors? Listen to find out!   

In this episode we continue the triumphant return of Marc's Miserable MARVELous May, where we talk about the Marvel movies and TV shows made by New World Pictures. We have return guest Tommy Bechtold from our DEF-CON 4 episode to talk about 1989's TRIAL OF THE INCREDIBLE HULK. Starring Bill Bixby, and Lou Ferrigno, and a special appearance by Rex Smith as Daredevil. Tune in for exclusive scoops, classic sayings, and stories so incredible you have to hear them to believe them.

It's the return of Marc's Miserable MARVELous May where we talk about the Marvel movies and TV shows made by New World Pictures.  We've invited Peter Fluet from Ep. 85: Generation X and Ep. 33: Star Crystal to kick off this special month with the memorable yet hard-to-find TV pilot, Power Pack.  This episode is full of New World Pictures Podcast "firsts".  It's the first Marvel movie or TV show that none of us had seen before.  It's the first movie or TV show we've discussed with a runtime of under 30 minutes, but that didn't stop us for talking about it for a full hour! This episode is a prime example of your hosts and Peter simply having a good time and it shows.  You get it all.  Peter Breaks down the terrifying premise of Power Pack comic book while also creating an account on Letterboxd in real time.  Erica does a bang up horse imitation.  Ryan shares his trials and tribulations with being the new kid at school.  We all share horror stories about trying to make a phone call during the dark ages when homes had one phone, and it was in the kitchen. Plus, you, the listener, get a sneak peak into the our collective upbringings including how proper parents relax after a hard days work. We also talk about Power Pack.

All good things must come to an end, and so we must say goodbye to #AprilSweeps! But not before we have one last hurrah at Tom Clancy's OP CENTER! Or is it Tom Clancy and Steve Pieczenik's OP CENTER? Don't worry, because your hard-working hosts are going to get to the bottom of it all as they dig in to this mini-series adaptation created by New World Television. They're even bringing in the big guns: Human Resources! Listen as they discuss the difficulties of that first day at work, questionable accents, and the important work of one incredible woman. With actors like Carl Weathers, Harry Hamlin, Kim Cattrall and Wilford Brimley along for the ride, you too may fall in love with the OP CENTER!

We continue with #AprilSweeps with a TV movie from the Roger Corman era of New World Pictures!  Long before New World Television existed, Corman produced GEORGIA PEACHES aka FOLLOW THAT CAR for network TV starring the American South, along with country singer Tanya Tucker, Berlin's Terri Nunn, and Battlestar Galactica's Dirk Benedict!  Joining us for this episode is returning guest Dunbar Dicks, an editor and story producer for reality TV show also gives us a tutorial on Southern accents and reveals how many degrees away we are from Tanya Tucker. We also discuss yachts vs. tugboats, jail vs. prison, and pick our least favorite A-Team member! Don't miss this episode, it's more fun that riding a horse through a carnival!  

It's our 2nd week of #Aprilsweeps where we continue to celebrate the TV movies made by New World Television. This week we immerse ourselves in the exciting/dangerous/sexy?/cigarette 1986 made for TV vigilante-action film THE GLADIATOR (not that GLADIATOR)! Starring Ken Wahl, Nancy Allen, and Robert Culp and surprise (spoiler) appearance by Rick Dees!  Join Marc, Erica, and Ryan as they reminisce about a simpler time when seat belts were optional, Weinerschnitzel went by Der, and soccer refs needed no prior experience or knowledge of the game. Marc teases out a possible fall lineup for NWPP and resurfaces a deep musical cut.

It's our 2nd week of #Aprilsweeps where we continue to celebrate the TV movies made by New World Television. This week we immerse ourselves in the exciting/dangerous/sexy?/cigarette 1986 made for TV vigilante-action film GLADIATOR. Not that Gladiator! Starring Ken Wahl, Nancy Allen, and Robert Culp and surprise (spoiler) appearance by Rick Dees! Join the Marc, Erica, and Ryan as they reminisce about a simpler time when seat belts were optional, Weinerschnitzel went by Der, and soccer refs needed no prior experience or knowledge of the game. Marc teases out a possible fall lineup for NWPP and resurfaces a deep musical cut.  Plus we learn serious impact smoking has on your ability to discern food flavors.  They don't make TV movies like this anymore.