Retro Ramble
Retro Ramble Movie Podcast & Blog - Join the Brothers McGhee each month as Charlie and George take a nostalgic look back at the TV and Films they grew up on why many are still relevant / being remade today. - Be sure to check our http://retroramble.blog to access tonnes of additional content, movie reviews, funny videos and much more. Copyright Notice: All copyright material remains the property of the original copyright holder and all clips and audio samples have been used only as a reference and as part of a review in line with Creative Commons FAIR USE policy. TAGS: 80s, 90s, action, cult, comedies, funny, movies, podcast, pop, review, thrillers, video games
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EP#129: The Terminator (1984)
03/30/2024
EP#129: The Terminator (1984)
Charlie and George travel back in time "about 40 years" to finally get around reviewing 1980s classic, The Terminator! A huge film for the brothers and many others, it's a deep dive into the low budget thriller that started a franchise, that likes it protagonist, cannot be stopped! One of the most important films of the decade, it made Arnold Schwarzenegger a bonafide star and introduced the world to James Cameron, the most successful director of all time!
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EP128 - Drop Zone vs Terminal Velocity
02/26/2024
EP128 - Drop Zone vs Terminal Velocity
1994 gave us not one, but two skydiving action thrillers, so Charlie and George thought it was only fair to revisit, review and compare both Drop Zone and Terminal Velocity. It's Wesley Snipes vs Charlie Sheen. It's Gary B (that's Busey) vs the KG - Used to Be. There can only be one victor, but who are the boys backing? The results may surprise you! Need more 90s action in your ears? Why not check out our Sudden Death review, recently available exclusively on our Patreon channel, Need more 90 skydiving action in your ears - why not check out our Point Break review (way back in Episode 4!)?
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EP126: Remembering Carl Weathers
02/09/2024
EP126: Remembering Carl Weathers
In this episode Charlie and George pay tribute to the actor Carl Weathers who sadly passed away. The boys remember the actor through the iconic roles he played during his career.
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EP#125 Labyrinth 1986
01/26/2024
EP#125 Labyrinth 1986
Charlie and George navigate Jim Henson's Labyrinth for a slice of 1980s kid's fantasy nostalgia! There's much to discuss, from the script development, the music and ground-breaking puppetry but mostly the majestic and much-missed, David Bowie's Goblin King, Jareth! Be prepared for lots of bad Bowie impressions!
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EP#123: Scrooged (1988)
12/22/2023
EP#123: Scrooged (1988)
Charlie and George discover the true meaning of Christmas, with Scrooged! They're back in Richard Donner country, with the festive favourite that lured back Bill Murray to acting after an absence of several years! In a bit of a twist on Coulda Woulda Shoulda feature, we discuss the other big films from 1988 that Murray passed on to make this film - some are very surprising! So download, get comfy and have a listen - Yule love it! Merry Christmas! Retro Ramble 2023
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EP122 - Kill Bill Special with Andy Hughes
11/30/2023
EP122 - Kill Bill Special with Andy Hughes
Charlie and George are joined by returning guest Andy Hughes to discuss 20 years of Kill Bill! To celebrate they are revisiting "the whole bloody affair", which means both volumes 1 & 2! It's a bumper episode taking in first memories, soundtracks, iconic anime, elaborate fight choreography and a brief overview of all things Tarantino. There's also alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, alternate cuts and mooted sequels/spin offs. Retro Ramble 2023
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EP120 - The Thing (1982)
10/30/2023
EP120 - The Thing (1982)
Charlie and George head to Antarctica to discuss the horror classic, John Carpenter's The Thing. They delve into the film's origins, its haunting Morricone score, Rob Bottin's ground-breaking practical effects, and several Suspicious Spin-Offs! Listeners can expect a healthy dose of paranoia, poor impressions, and fawning over Kurt Russell. If you're in the mood for more John Carpenter spookiness, make sure to check out their thoughts on Halloween (1978) and They Live! (1988) over on their Patreon channel at .
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EP#118 - The Last Boy Scout (1991)
09/29/2023
EP#118 - The Last Boy Scout (1991)
Charlie and George are back in sweaty LA with a slick slice of early nineties action with The Last Boy Scout! Brought to us by a holy action quartet of star Bruce Willis, writer Shane Black, producer Joel Silver and director Tony Scott - explosive action (on and behind the camera) is guaranteed! We dive deep into this film's production and share some juicy behind-the-scenes facts. Plus, in our "Coulda Woulda Shoulda" segment, we'll be discussing some alternative casting choices that could have made this movie very different! But it's not all about our thoughts - we want to hear from you too! Let us know where The Last Boy Scout ranks on your list of favourite 80s/90s action movies. Don't be shy, let us know what Last Boy Scout means to you! Retro Ramble 2023
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EP#116: Octopussy Vs Never Say Never Again
08/30/2023
EP#116: Octopussy Vs Never Say Never Again
Charlie and George don their tuxedos to celebrate the 40th anniversary of two competing Bond films, Octopussy and Never Say Never Again! Features a behind-the-scenes discussion regarding the complicated ownership of James Bond rights in cinema, dating back decades. The hosts also compare the strengths and weaknesses of both films, including casting choices and production values. As always, expect a plethora of bad impressions! Further reading As discussed in the episode, we recommend all Bond fans check out the following books, which massively helped our research:
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EP#114: X-Men 2000
07/31/2023
EP#114: X-Men 2000
Charlie and George slip on the black leather jumpsuits for some naughties comic book action, X-Men! The first of a 13 film franchise and years before the birth of the MCU, there's much to discuss - years in development, script challenges, budget constraints and behind the scenes drama* As usual, there's alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and plenty of Ian McKellen impressions. *For more insight to the drama here's the Hollywood Reporter article referenced in the episode
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EP112 - Indiana Jones & The Last Crusade
06/23/2023
EP112 - Indiana Jones & The Last Crusade
Charlie and George go in search of The Holy Grail, as they saddle up to review Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade! With Indy's fifth and final adventure in cinemas, the McGhee boys revisit the original closing chapter of the action adventure saga! They talk the crazy early scripts (possibly including monkeys and biomechanical Nazis) alternative casting, practical effects and stunning stunts! Retro Ramble 2023
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EP#110 - Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
06/02/2023
EP#110 - Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
In this month's episode, Charlie and George head from grimy Detroit to sunny Los Angeles, that's right, we're finally reviewing Beverly Hills Cop! The brothers discuss everything from it's more serious origins, Eddie Murphy's rise to stardom and the villains you love to hate! There's also some very interesting alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and the usual bad impressions! Sit back, enjoy, maybe make yourself an espresso with a little lemon twist? Retro Ramble 2023
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EP#108: Superman Zodcast Special
05/03/2023
EP#108: Superman Zodcast Special
In this month's episode, Charlie and George are willing to believe a man will fly - with a podcast special on Superman The Movie and Superman 2! The films had a big effect on the Brothers McGhee growing up and as it's the Man of Steel's 85th anniversary (and 45th anniversary of the first movie) it felt the right time to revisit the classic comic book epics! There's a whole lotta Superchat to get through, gigantic scripts, creative accounting, crazy casting, location changes, and plenty of behind the scenes drama! The lengthy chat only covers the theatrical cuts of these films, however we will be covering the Richard Donner Cut of Superman 2 in a Patreon special in the near future!
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EP#106: The Running Man (1987)
03/30/2023
EP#106: The Running Man (1987)
In this month's episode...it's time to start running! That's right, it's Retro Ramble's "Annual Arnie", with Charlie and George talking all about The Running Man! They cover everything from the Stephen King source novel, multiple directors, tight budgets and some alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda! Are you ready for pain? Are you ready for suffering? lf the answer is yes, then you're ready to listen to this episode! Retro Ramble 2023
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EP#104 - Armageddon 1998
03/03/2023
EP#104 - Armageddon 1998
In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to drill into to an asteroid the size of Texas for some absolute Bay-hem, it's time for Armageddon! They discuss it's origins, it's fierce competition with Deep Impact (and Godzilla), Ben Affleck's teeth and the usefulness of miniguns in space! There's regular features Suspicious Spin offs, and alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda and the usual bad impressions. Basically, it's the worst parts of the Bible... Enjoy Retro Ramble? Then please leave a review or spread the word! Want more? Why not check out our Patreon channel at Retro Ramble 2023
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EP#102: Innerspace (1987)
01/30/2023
EP#102: Innerspace (1987)
In this month's episode, Charlie and George shrink themselves down to microscopic size to venture into the sci-fi comedy territory that is Innerspace! The brothers are back in the 1980s to revisit the Joe Dante-directed, Spielberg-produced cult classic! It's a nostalgic look back where they discuss everything from the serious spy movie origins to last-minute casting, impressive special effects, and some inspired improv! What are your thoughts on Innerspace? Let us know in the comments! Interested to find out what Charlie & George think of more recent cinema/streaming releases? Then be sure to subscribe below for extra episodes every month: Retro Ramble 2023
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EP100 - Christmas Vacation 1989
12/23/2022
EP100 - Christmas Vacation 1989
We finally did it! Our 100th episode! It's a big occasion for such a significant number, firstly, it's Christmas and we're covering family favourite, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation from 1989! Secondly, we are joined by two special guests, John and James Glendinning, our oldest friends and first neighbours! Their names have cropped up in a lot of previous episodes, as many of the films we've covered were introduced to us by the Glendinnings - so you could say they were part of Retro Ramble's origins! We discuss Christmas traditions, dealing with difficult relations and a stand-out performance from Chevy Chase - it's gonna be something nice, real nice! It was a delight to catch up with John and James and reminisce about films in general, we talked for so long, we'll likely post an extended chat on our Patreon channel in the near future -
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EP#99 - Review of 2022
12/22/2022
EP#99 - Review of 2022
It is December and with the end of the year upon us Charlie and George have as usual taken a look back at all the juicy (and not so juicy) releases 2022 has offered. As the world and more specifically the movie release calendar continues to recover from the pandemic this year sees more traffic coming via streaming services than cinema releases. We should stress that many of the big hits have already been covered in Recent Ramble episodes available on our Patreon channel so if you'd like a longer look at titles such as Top Gun: Maverick, Prey, The Gray Man etc, be sure to head over to . We still have our mighty 100th episode to follow in time for Christmas so be sure to keep an eye out for that arriving in the next few days! Enjoy and please share! Retro Ramble 2022
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EP97 - Willow (1988)
12/01/2022
EP97 - Willow (1988)
To celebrate the release of the new Willow series on Disney+, George and Charlie take a Retro Ramble on the original 1988 classic. The brothers revisit the 80s fantasy classic and cover everything from the team-up of Ron Howard and George Lucas, to the similarities with that OTHER Lucas franchise and of course, the crazy sex parties that may have occurred, just ask Ron Howard..... Not sure if the new series is for you? Can't remember the original? Then be sure to check out and PLEASE SHARE with like-minded folk! Retro Ramble 2022
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EP97 - Willow (1988)
12/01/2022
EP97 - Willow (1988)
In this month's episode and to celebrate the release of the new Willow series on Disney+, George and Charlie took a Retro Ramble on the original 1988 classic. The brothers revisit the 80s fantasy classic and cover everything from the team up of Ron Howard and George Lucas, to the similarities with that OTHER Lucas franchise and of course the crazy sex parties that occur when you get enough "Little People" together in the same location, just ask Ron Howard. Not sure if the new series is for you? Can't remember the original? Then be sure to check out and PLEASE SHARE with like minded folk! Retro Ramble 2022
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EP95 The Crow 1994
10/28/2022
EP95 The Crow 1994
In this month's episode, Charlie and George are heading to a dark and rainy Detroit to revisit the gothic cult classic, The Crow. They discuss the film's comic book origins as well as it's troubled and ultimately tragic production. They also cover the film's legacy with many, many suspicious spin-offs and a long gestating remake. What are you waiting for? Fire it up, fire it up!!
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EP93 Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
10/07/2022
EP93 Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
In this month's episode, Charlie and George boldly go where plenty of other podcasts have been, they review Star Trek II - The Wrath of Khan! It's the film's 40th anniversary and the first time they've ventured into Trek-territory, fortunately, they're not alone as they're joined by author, animator and Star Trek fan, Niel Bushnell! Expect discussions of why the film is such a beloved entry in the franchise, cost-cutting cinematic trickery, that ending and fond memories of a limited Betamax collection! It was a pleasure to have Niel on the pod, we encourage you to check out his work or even better, purchase one of his and ! Of all the souls we've encountered on the podcast, his was the most... human!
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EP91 Broken Arrow 1996
09/05/2022
EP91 Broken Arrow 1996
In this month's episode, Charlie and George fly to Utah in their stealth jet (they were big in the 90s) to review John Woo's Broken Arrow! The brothers discuss slo-mo, Hans Zimmer, exploding helicopters and John Travolta devouring the gorgeous scenery in the first of his many OTT villains. For extra episodes, why not check out our Patreon channel?
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EP89 - Masters Of The Universe (1987)
07/29/2022
EP89 - Masters Of The Universe (1987)
In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to Eternia (but only briefly for budget reasons) to review the cult curiosity that is Masters of The Universe! It's a nostalgic trip back as the brothers reminisce about the toys and one of George's first cinema outings! They discuss how the toyline behemoth became one of Cannon Film's most expensive productions, as well as casting, creative accounting and liberally borrowing from bigger (and better) blockbusters. There's plenty to discuss in Suspicious Spin Offs, from aborted sequels to faltering reboots. Good journey!
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EP#87 Gladiator 2000 - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
07/01/2022
EP#87 Gladiator 2000 - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
In this month's episode, Charlie and George head back to ancient Rome (via the Millenium), for the star-studded, action-packed, swords and sandals epic, Gladiator! They discuss the film's troubled production, effective use of CGI and the film's impact on DVD. There's also alternative casting in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, discussions on a (still in development) sequel and the impact on the genre as a whole in the following decades. Are you not entertained? Let us know on our social channels! Looking for more Ramblings? Why not check out our Patreon channel for bonus film reviews and specials -
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EP85 - Top Gun (1986)
06/10/2022
EP85 - Top Gun (1986)
In this month's episode, Charlie and George are off to sweaty Miramar, for one of the 1980's biggest films, Top Gun! In celebration of the release of Top Gun: Maverick, the brothers revisit the classic Bruckheimer/Simpson blockbuster that made Tom Cruise the movie star and aviators the must-have sunglasses. They chat production background, involving real Top Gun pilots, casting stories, romantic reshoots and of course, the power of Kenny Loggins. After more sweaty Top Gun action? Then sign up to our Patreon channel to hear our spoiler-filled thoughts on Top Gun: Maverick as well as Charlie's reaction to attending the Royal Premiere -
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EP82 - Tombstone (1993) - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
05/12/2022
EP82 - Tombstone (1993) - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
In this month's episode, Charlie and George travel back to 1993 (or is it 1881?) and saddle up for their first western, the action and actor-packed, Tombstone! They discuss the film's troubled production, including ghost directors, alternate casting and the rivalry with a similar project headed by one Kevin Costner. They also discuss the massive star-studded cast, real moustaches and delve into what actually happened at the OK Corral! Further reading - the True West article that is referenced can be found here -
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EP80 - Twins and Kindergarten Cop - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
03/31/2022
EP80 - Twins and Kindergarten Cop - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
In this month's special - it's a tribute to the late Ivan Reitman, with two comedy classics starring our good friend Arnie - it's Twins and Kindergarten Cop! The brothers go into detail on the production background of both films, revealing how one became Arnie's most profitable film! There's also time for alternative casting, suspicious spin-offs, ferret trivia and enough Arnie impressions to give you a headache (not a tumour)! Need more Retro Ramble in your life/ears? Why not check out our Patreon page, where you can get a bonus episode each month for the price of a coffee!
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EP78_Independence Day (1996) Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
02/25/2022
EP78_Independence Day (1996) Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
In this month's episode, Charlie and George beam back to 1996 to tackle one of the biggest blockbusters of the 90s - it's Independence Day! With Roland Emmerich trying to destroy the Earth (yet again) in his latest disaster flick, Moonfall, the boys thought it apt to revisit his biggest hit. They talk controversial casting, novelization tie-ins, and the most pressing question; who would win a squint off between Robert Loggia and Bill Pullman?! Do you need more Retro Ramble in your life? Why not check out our Patreon channel? With just a small amount of support, you can get an extra episode of Rambley goodness, every month! Patreon Exclusives include: Road House (Retro Ramble Revelations) Spider-Man: No Way Home (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special) The Matrix Resurrections (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special) No Time To Die (Recent Ramble Spoiler Special) Enjoy, and please share! Retro Ramble 2022
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EP#74 - Scream (1996) - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
01/17/2022
EP#74 - Scream (1996) - Retro Ramble Movie Podcast
In this month's episode, Charlie and George head to Woodsboro to watch a scary movie, namely the original Scream! The boys revisit the late nineties horror which gave the genre a much-needed shock. Along the way, there's casting shake-ups in Coulda Woulda Shoulda, a brief discussion on the new wave of the horror films that followed and of course, some bad impressions
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