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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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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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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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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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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Today we take on romance at "Going Hollywood", and discuss one of the greatest romantic pairings in cinema history...Paul Newman and Robert Redford, specifically in "The Sting" (1973). What makes this Best Picture Oscar-winner such an enduring classic, and how did the bromance between Paul Newman and Robert Redford redefine cinematic pairings? Join us as we, along with special guest Bob Lament from Static Radio, dissect the magic that made this film a box office sensation since its festive release in 1973. We kick off with a discussion about the undeniable chemistry of Newman and Redford, exploring how their dynamic overshadows traditional romantic narratives and the impact they left on Hollywood.

We delve into the intriguing world of confidence men, as brought to life by David S. Ward’s screenplay, exploring the cinematic 'what-ifs' and imagining the Oscars sweep for Redford and Streisand. The thrill of con films, the allure of morally ambiguous characters, and the clever plot twists of "The Sting" are all part of our rich discussion.

You can find Static Radio at staticradio.com

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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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Did Katharine Hepburn truly shine in "Alice Adams," or was it one of her more excruciating performances? Join us for “The Great Kate Debate” as we passionately discuss the 1935 classic, starring Hepburn alongside Fred MacMurray. While one of us sees it as a delightful highlight of Hepburn's early career, the other labels it a torturous experience. We also provide a glimpse into the film's historical backdrop and Hepburn's rapid rise and fall in Hollywood.

This episode isn't just about the film itself; it's a deep dive into the career of Katharine Hepburn during a pivotal time. We scrutinize Hepburn's celebrated performance in "Alice Adams," for which she received a Best Actress nomination, and compare it to Bette Davis' win for "Dangerous." Explore Hepburn's on-screen insecurities versus her real-life audacity, her bold entry into Hollywood, and the profound direction of George Stevens. From Alice's desperate attempts to fit into high society to the emotionally charged scenes shaped by Stevens' insistence on genuine emotion, this discussion captures the essence of the film's most poignant moments. Through our fervent and sometimes contentious discussion, we uncover the layers of this classic film and its place in the annals of Hollywood history.

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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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What if your favorite sitcoms did more than just entertain—they shaped societal attitudes and pushed boundaries? Join us as we welcome Matt Baume, an expert in gay television history and the acclaimed author of "Hi Honey, I'm Homo," to explore the enduring legacy of "All in the Family." We'll revisit two groundbreaking episodes featuring the character Beverly LaSalle, and confront our own 21st century assumptions about a show very much centered in the 20th.

From "Bewitched" to "Will and Grace," sitcoms have played a pivotal role in queer representation and societal acceptance. With Matt's insightful perspective, we'll highlight key episodes and moments that used comedy to convey serious social messages. Discover how parasocial relationships with TV characters can shape real-world attitudes, and hear our thoughts on Joe Biden crediting "Will and Grace" for advancing social change. We also dig into Norman Lear's creative vision, exploring the complex character of Beverly LaSalle and the evolution of LGBTQ terms over the decades.

Finally, we celebrate the phenomenal chemistry of the "All in the Family" cast and discuss the show's audacious handling of taboo topics. We’ll delve into Edith Bunker’s crisis of faith following Beverly’s death, highlighting the show's compassionate portrayal of queer characters and its bold narrative choices. Plus, we’ll touch on exciting ideas for reviving the series as live theater and introduce you to Matt's YouTube channel, where he continues to champion queer perspectives in television and film history. Join us for an episode packed with thoughtful analysis, heartfelt tributes, and a look at how TV can be both entertaining and transformative.

Learn more about Matt as well as find links to his YouTube videos, his podcasts, and his book "Honey I'm Homo" at mattbaume.com

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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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Ever found yourself wondering what films truly deserve a spot among the cinematic greats? Join us as we embark on a funny and candid countdown of our top five favorite films and beloved lazy Sunday afternoon picks. From Brad’s surprising choice of "Deadpool" to Tony’s classic Hollywood gems like "Singin’ in the Rain", we promise a spirited debate that reflects our unique tastes and preferences. But do we answer the question of whose taste is more refined? You decide.

Connect with us through our website and social media for more insights and fun.

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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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What makes "Chinatown" one of the most iconic films in Hollywood history? Join us as we uncover the layers of this 1974 classic in our comprehensive breakdown with Tony Maietta and Brad Shreve. From the intricate plot involving a murder mystery and water scandal to its high ranking on AFI's list, we explore why this film remains a cornerstone of American cinema. Be forewarned: we go deep into the story, revealing all the twists and turns that make "Chinatown" unforgettable. Consider watching the movie before hitting play to avoid any spoilers.

We'll also celebrate the artistry that brought "Chinatown" to life, discussing the contributions of Robert Towne, Richard Sylbert, Robert Evans, and Roman Polanski. This was a transformative era in Hollywood, where storytelling reached its zenith just before the blockbuster era began. We draw insightful comparisons to other standout films from 1974, such as "Blazing Saddles" and "Godfather Part II," underscoring the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Listen as we highlight the brilliance of Robert Towne's screenplay and the collective effort that often shapes such masterpieces, much like "Good Will Hunting."

Finally, we delve into the darker themes and personal stories that influenced "Chinatown." Discover how the Watergate scandal, the Manson murders, and Towne's love for 1930s Los Angeles gave the film its unique tone of corruption and paranoia. Our discussion extends to the memorable performances of Jack Nicholson and John Huston, and how personal experiences shaped Polanski's direction for the film's unsettling conclusion. We also reflect on the lasting legacy of Robert Evans and what might have been with Towne’s unfulfilled trilogy. Tune in for an episode that promises a renewed appreciation for one of cinema's most complex and haunting works.

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

Follow us on Instagram @goinghollywoodpod
Facebook: /goinghollywoodpod

Listen to our Going Hollywood Playlist

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