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Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 97, Drive (2011)

One of the most frequent questions I am always asked being the host of the greatest movie podcast ever (opinions may vary) is “What’s your favorite movie?” That answer has been the same since I was 11 years old. But it also isn’t as easy to explain why I love some movies more than others.

As an art form, movies are by their nature interpretative. Some people will point to a film’s box office total as a barometer for a film’s quality, this might not be true again because although it might be popular to the masses it might not appeal to you. I am looking at you Avatar, which is not one of my favorite films, not by a longshot.

Also, if the film wins an Academy Award for Best Picture, that hardly means it’s one of my favorite films, looking at you The English Patient, in fact I hardly agree with the Academy. Having said that, I am sure that some people love Avatar and The English Patient. And that’s what makes movies so great.

I, also am not a professional critic. I love film. I try and find merit in all film. As a host of a podcast that attempts to give every movie a chance, I believe that is the best way to approach movies, let the lights go out and try and enjoy yourself. You might find a “diamond in the rough.”

When thinking of my favorite movies to share with you, my loyal listeners, I thought 100 wasn’t going to be enough. So, I am proud to present my 150 Favorite Films, right now. These will change, I know they will.

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

97. Drive (2011) Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn

The Movie: The Driver (Ryan Gosling) is a Hollywood stuntman by day and a getaway driver by night. The Driver has a boss, an auto shop owner named Shannon (Bryan Cranston) who is able to convince the mob boss Bernie Rose (Albert Brooks) to fund a car for The Driver so he can race.

The Driver soon meets his neighbor, Irene (Carey Mulligan) and her son Benicio (Kaden Leos). The Driver and Irene become friends and seem to be getting close when Irene’s husband, Standard (Oscar Issacs) returns home from prison. Standard is in trouble as he owes money to an Albanian gangster named Chris Cook (James Biberi). After Standard is assaulted by Cook he is told to rob a pawn store of $40,000 to pay his debt. The Driver decides he will help by being the getaway driver for the job.

At the pawn shop, Blanche (Christina Hendricks) who works for Cook waits with The Driver. The robbery does not go as planned and Standard is killed. The Driver and Blanche leave and are pursued by another car. The Driver is able to get away and he and Blanche hide in a motel. Blanche confides in The Driver that she was going to double cross them and take a bag with $1,000,000 in it for her and Cook. Blanche is killed by one of Cook’s men and The Driver stabs that man to death.

After refusing to let Shannon hide the money, The Driver confronts Cook and tells him he will kill him. Cook tells The Driver the mobster Nino (Ron Pearlman) was the man who orchestrated the robbery. The Driver calls Nino and asks to be left alone and he will give him the money. Nino refuses.

The Driver tells Irene about Standard and the robbery. The Driver tells Irene they need to leave. When they enter the elevator, The Driver realizes that the man in the elevator is a hitman. The Driver passionately kisses Irene and then stomps the hitman to death. The Driver next confronts Shannon after he realizes that Shannon must have told Bernie about the money and Irene.

We learn from Nino that a Philadelphia mobster stashed the money at the pawn shop and plans to use the money for a new East Coast operation. Nino tells Bernie that they need to kill any witnesses that are involved in the robbery. Bernie agrees and kills Cook. Bernie next presses Shannon about The Driver’s whereabouts. Shannon refuses to tell him and is killed.

After he finds Shannon dead, The Driver chases down Nino and rams his car off the Pacific Coast Highway and onto a beach. The Driver grabs Nino and drowns him in the ocean. The Driver next finds Bernie. Bernie tells The Driver Irene will be safe, as long as The Driver gives him the money. The Driver does and is stabbed. The Driver however, stabs Bernie to death, leaving his body in a parking lot with all the money. Irene goes to The Driver’s apartment but there is no answer, The Driver is in a car, driving away.

Why I Love Drive (2011): Just a straight cool movie. Ryan Gosling’s performance is calm, cool and mean. The way he controls the camera, where he just commands you to pay attention to him onscreen made me look at him in a whole new light.

The synth laced soundtrack and score are pitch perfect for the neon light-soaked backdrop of Drive’s crime noir.

Directed with confidence and flair by Nicolas Winding Refn, he would never be this cool again. The movies that he made after Drive never capture the awesomeness and confidence he has here. Refn goes too far after this film and never regains his mojo in my opinion, some of the other Reel Nerds love The Neon Demon, I do not.

The car chases, the getaway escapes all pulsate the screen with urgency and bad-assery. Drive does not follow the rules of most action films, it speeds past them.

Drive also plays with your expectations. Blanche’s death is shocking and brutal. So too is The Driver’s assault on the hitman in the elevator. It is gory and necessary, so we understand that The Driver is the hero, but he isn’t above getting his hands dirty.

From the confidence behind the camera and the cool and mean streak of The Driver in front of the camera, Drive rewards its viewers with an action film that never overplays its hand. It takes us for a ride that is breathtaking and brutal.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 98, Tommy Boy (1995)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

98. Tommy Boy (1995) Directed by Peter Segal

The Movie: After spending seven years in college, Tommy Callahan (Chris Farley) is heading home to work at his father’s (Brain Dennehy) auto parts factory. Tommy doesn’t take like too seriously and he loves to party.

Tommy is picked up at the airport by an old childhood friend, Richard Hayden (David Spade) and is taken to Callahan Auto Parts. Along the way, Tommy notices that many of the factories in Sandusky are closing, and his father’s auto parts factory is one of the last standing and vital to the economy of the city.

Tommy reunites with his father and after spending the day at the factory, they head home, where Big Tom has a surprise for Tommy. Big Tom has a “10” fiancé, Beverly (Bo Derek) and the wedding is happening soon.

Tommy soon meets Beverly’s “son” Paul ( an uncredited Rob Lowe) and is excited to have a brother and takes him out for a night on the town.

At the wedding, Big Tom suffers a fatal heart attack. Leaving half his company to his son and the other half to his new wife.

Tommy learns that the revolutionary brake pads that his father spearheaded were no in trouble as he had stretched himself thin and the banks were unwilling to lend anymore money to Callahan Auto Parts. The board is also getting pressure to sale as the Automotive King, Ray Zalinsky (Dan Akroyd) has given a lucrative offer for the Callahan Auto Parts name.

Tommy realizing that the City and the factory will close if the brake pads to not sale, leverages his half of the company for the capital to get the brake pad division going and also head out on the road to sale the brake pads with RIchard. Tommy also has a budding relationship with Michelle (Julie Warner) who is in charge of shipping.

On the road, Tommy in a novice and doesn’t understand how to sale anything. Richard meanwhile, is too cold and mechanic, which makes their pairing disastrous. After striking out multiple times, Tommy and Richard have a fight which ends with Richard knocking Tommy out with a 2×4.

At a diner, they makeup and Tommy is able to convince the waitress to make him some chicken wings. Sensing confidence in Tommy, Richard is able to help Tommy find his groove and start selling brake pads.

Back is Sandusky, we learn that Paul and Beverly are married and were conspiring to take Big Tom for all his money. Him dying complicated their plans, and Paul starts trying to sabotage Tommy.

Tommy and Richard soon sell enough brake pads to keep Callahan Auto Parts open and start to celebrate. Paul infiltrates Michelle’s office and changes orders. By doing this, everyone starts cancelling their orders, leading to Tommy losing his shares and Beverly entering an agreement to sell Callahan Auto Parts to Zalinsky.

Tommy and RIchard soon learn from Michelle that Paul and Beverly are married. Tommy devises a plan to talk to Zalinsky and confront his stepmother.

Tommy stages a bank robbery and has a TV crew follow him to the board room. In the board room, with TV cameras rolling Zalinsky, buys a million brake pads, thinking that the company is his anyways and is just playing the savior on TV. Soon, Paul and Beverly’s plan is exposed and Tommy pulled one over Zalinsky and saved his father’s company.

Why I Love Tommy Boy (1995): A showcase for Chris Farley’s incredible talent, Tommy Boy is a high school favorite.

Where Tommy Boy succeeds is not only is it funny, but it really pulls on the heartstrings. Farley, displays his wide range of acting ability for breaking your heart at one moment and breaking your funny bone the next.

Every time I watch Tommy Boy it is bittersweet. In two short years, Farley’s addictions would spiral out of control, leading to his death by drug overdose. And while his death no doubt contributes to the iconic status of Tommy Boy, it also leaves a hole in your heart realizing that we never got to see Chris’ full potential as an actor.

But, with one liners to spare, Tommy Boy is a laugh a minute comedy. It gave birth to “Holy Schnikes!” And “Fat guy in a little coat!” But, like a lot of comedies, my favorite moments are the fleeting ones. When Paul runs out of the board room in a panic, my favorite line in Tommy Boy is yelled by Chris, “Hey! You forgot your wife!”.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 99, United 93 (2006)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

99. United 93 (2006) Directed by Paul Greengrass

The Movie: It’s the morning of September 11, 2001. In a Newark, New Jersey hotel, four members of the terrorist group al-Qaeda Ziad Jarrah (Khalid Abdulla) Saeed Al Ghamdi (Lewis Alsamari) Ahmed Al Haznawi (Omar Berdouni) and Ahmed Al Nami (Jamie Harding) are on their way to Newark International Airport. They are boarding United Airlines Flight 93 with a final destination of San Francisco. It will never make it to its destination.

On board the flight is Captain Jason Dahl (J.J. Johnson) and First Officer LeRoy Homer (Gary Commock). Mark Bingham (Cheyenne Jackson) barely makes the flight. The doors close and the flight is delayed as it sits on the tarmac.

Air traffic controllers, attempting to contact American Airlines Flight 11. The last they know is it is being diverted to New York City. Air Traffic Controllers, realize that the flight has been hijacked after they hear suspicious transmissions from the flight deck.

Ben Sliney (Himself) is on his first day as the Federal Aviation Administration’s National Operations Manager. Sliney learns that not only has American 11 been hijacked but ATC has also lost contact with United Flight 175. Sliney is shocked when American 11 crashes into the World Trade Center’s North Tower. Sliney learns that United 175 is also headed to New York City. As ATC looks on in terror as United 175 crashes into the World Trade Center’s South Tower. Sliney learns that American Airlines Flight 77 has also been hijacked and is headed for Washington D.C.

United 93 is starting its climb to cruising altitude and reaches it. The flight attendants start to serve breakfast when an ACARS message warns Captain Dahl that the World Trade Center has been attacked and beware of cockpit intrusions.

Haznawi decides that it is time to hijack United 93 and goes into the bathroom to make a “bomb”. Ghamdi grabs flight attendant Deborah Welsh (Polly Adams) and threatens her with a knife. Passenger Mark Rothenberg (Chip Zein) attempts to intervene and is stabbed by Haznawi and dies. Haznawi and Nami force all the passengers to the back of the plane and Ghamdi enters the flight deck and kills both pilots. The pilots however send out a mayday call before they are killed and Jarrah takes over controls of the flight. His target is the United States Capital building.

American Airlines Flight 77 crashes into the Pentagon and Sliney orders all flights in the air in the United States or coming to the United States to be grounded.

On United 93, the passengers learn of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. They learn that the hijackers are lying and they have no intention in landing the plane. Passengers rally behind Bingham, Jeremy Glick (Peter Hermann) and Todd Beamer (David Alan Basche) and decide to take back the plane by force and attack the hijackers with make shift weapons and utensils from the fight crew.

The passengers storm the hijackers. Haznawi is killed by Bingham. The passengers learn that the bomb is a fake and are more determined than ever to take back the plane. Hearing the commotion outside, Jarrah attempts to stop the passengers by rocking the plane back and forth. Nami is the next to fall as his eyes are gouged out by Glick. The passengers start ramming the cockpit door with a serving cart. Jarrah realizing that he will not complete his mission pitches the plane into a steep dive as the passengers break the door down.

Although the plane never recovers from its dive, the men and women on board are heroes as United 93 crashes into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing everyone on board, but saving thousands of lives in the process.

Why I Love United 93 (2006): The events of 9/11 are some of the most tragic in history. Certainly in American History. The events that unfolded on that day will live with me for the rest of my life. And while the events are heartbreaking and tragic, I believe the men and women on United 93 perfectly encapsulates the American Spirit.

The United States will only be pushed around so long before we fight back, and that is exactly what happened on United 93. When the bad guys thought they had the United States on the ropes, brave men and women stood up and fought back. The story of United 93 is a tragic one, but also a story that needs to be told for the brave Americans who said “that’s enough.”

Paul Greengrass brings his signature documentary style to the film which makes it that much more powerful. The way he moves the camera and tells the story on board United 93 makes it feel like you are there.

The heartbreak we felt that day is perfectly captured in the performance of Ben Sliney, who plays himself in the film. Hats off to Sliney who is not an actor but is fantastic in the film giving it even more authenticity.

United 93 is a tough watch. But it is a film that everyone should see.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 100, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

100. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) Directed by James Gunn

The Movie: Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) and the Guardians of the Galaxy are at their home, Knowhere, when they are attacked by a powerful being known as Adam (Will Poulter). Adam was created by Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki) after she was humiliated by the Guardians during one of their missions.

Rocket (Bradley Cooper) is injured. Bad. In fact, Rocket will die unless the Guardians go to Orgocorp and find a code to overwrite a “kill switch” code that was placed in Rocket by his “creator” The High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji). The mission is dangerous and Nebula (Karen Gillan) tells Quill that she knows someone that can help them get inside the headquarters.

As Rocket lies in a coma, we are taken back in time and we learn how Rocket became Rocket. The High Evolutionary was experimenting on animals, in hopes of creating a Counter-Earth with enhanced and anthropomorphize for a more “perfect” society. While in a cage, Rocket befriends several “enhanced” animals. An otter named Lylla (Linda Cardellini) a walrus named Teefs (Asim Chaudhry) and a rabbit named Floor (Mikaela Hoover). Rocket soon learns incredibly quick gaining favor with The High Evolutionary. But when Rocket figures out a problem with The High Evolutionary’s process that results in the Humanimal creations to longer explode, he becomes jealous and furious with Rocket. Rocket learns that he is soon to be killed so his brain can be harvested and his friends will be killed as they are deemed obsolete. Rocket and his friends devise a plan to escape but during their escape all of his friends are killed. Rocket attacks and mauls The High Evolutionary and escapes.

Back with Quill, Nebula, Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Drax (Dave Bautista) and Groot (Vin Diesel) we learn that Nebula’s contact is The Ravagers, more specifically Gamora (Zoe Saldana). Quill still has feelings for Gamora, but this is not the Gamora that fell in love with Quill. That Gamora was killed by Thanos. At Orgocorp, the Guardians are successful in breaking into High Evolutionary’s headquarters, but they learn that the code is incomplete, they must travel to the Counter-Earth and confront The High Evolutionary’s henchman, Theel (Nico Santos).

As the Guardians arrive on Counter-Earth, hot on their tails are Adam and Ayesha. They too were created by The High Evolutionary and he has threatened to kill their entire race unless they retrieve Rocket for him.

The citizens of Counter-Earth point the Guardians in the direction of Arete, where a laboratory there contains the code they need to save Rocket. Quill, Groot and Nebula head for the laboratory and Gamora, Drax and Mantis stay behind to look after Rocket.

Quill and Groot enter Arete, Nebula stays outside. Drax feeling left out, tricks Mantis in going to Arete to help the other Guardians. Gamora is left behind and must save Rocket from not only Adam but War Pig (Judy Greer) a vicious henchwoman of The High Evolutionary.

Quill and Groot confront The High Evolutionary inside Arete and tell him that his society isn’t perfect as they saw the Humanimals doing drugs and committing crimes. The High Evolutionary agrees and Arete is not just a building it is a rocket that not only leaves Counter-Earth but it wipes out its population and kills Ayesha in the process as well. Theel is killed in a fight with Quill and Groot. They retrieve the code they need from Theel’s body and use it to save Rocket.

In the confusion of Arete lifting off, Drax, Nebula and Mantis are captured on board. Not before they learn of hundreds of imprisoned modified children that are on board. Quill, Rocket, Groot and Gamora devise a plan to save the other Guardians. During the battle with The High Evolutionary and his army, Kraglin (Sean Gunn) uses Knowhere to fire upon Arete, critically crippling the ship. Overwhelmed by the citizens of Knowhere, the crew of the Arete stage a mutiny against The High Evolutionary. The High Evolutionary kills the people responsible for the mutiny and sets his sights on Rocket. The Guardians reunite and decide they cannot leave the children on board the doomed Arete. They go to the prison and save the children. Rocket meanwhile, enters the animal testing area of Arete. While there, he is confronted by The High Evolutionary. Rocket is overpowered but with the help of the other Guardians, Rocket defeats The High Evolutionary and spares his life. The animals are able to escape, but the Arete is falling apart and the bridge to Knowhere is breaking. Quill the last to leave, doesn’t make it across and is about to die. Quill is saved by Adam, who was given a second chance by the Guardians, more specifically Groot.

It seems the Guardians have had their last mission. Quill leaves space to see his Grandfather Jason (Gregg Hill) and names Rocket Captain. Gamora leaves to be with her new family, The Ravagers. Mantis leaves with the monstrous Abilisks. Nebula and Drax decide to stay on Knowhere and help raise all the children they rescued.

Why I Love Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023): Of all the Marvel Cinematic Movies that came out during the first two phases, I remember when they announced Guardians of the Galaxy and thinking to myself, “if Marvel can pull this off, no one can stop them.”

Not only did Marvel pull it off, they gave us one of the most unlikely blockbusters of all time. James Gunn has such a unique voice that he gave the candy coated cosmic world of Marvel quite the look. But the best thing that he and co-writer Nicole Perlman did was give us some of the best heartfelt moments in the MCU.

With GotG Vol 3. Gunn and company deliver a film that is funny, poignant and a real tear-jerker. No joke I cried at least three times in this film. Bradley Cooper’s performance as Rocket is one of the best voice over work done, period. Rocket’s heartbreaking story which is only touched on in the first two films is given the ability to fully breathe here and it pays off in spades. I also love that Gunn did not take the easy way out with Gamora. Quill’s struggle to get this Gamora to like him is relatable, but ultimately bound to fail. As it should. I actually would have felt cheated out if she choose to be with Quill instead of The Ravagers. And the moment near the end when Peter realizes that is beautiful.

The action, the special effects are top notch. The performances are all great. And if this is the Guardians last ride, they go out on top.

Rod Stewart: Year by Year, Track by Track Part 9 1989-1993

Part 9: In Which Our Hero Reunites with His Best Mate and Once Again Conquers MTV

Rod Stewart ended 1988 dominating the Billboard Charts. His album, Out of Order had sold over 2 million copies and he had four singles in the top 12 of the charts. In 1989, Stewart would release a 4-disc compilation of his career so far titled, Storyteller. Stewart would re-record two of his favorite songs, which previously appeared on Atlantic Crossing and a brand new cover of a Tom Waits song.

Storyteller-The Complete Anthology 1964-1990 November, 1989

302. This Old Heart of Mine (1989 Version with Ronald Isley) (Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland, Sylvia Moy)

On Atlantic Corssing, Stewart tackled one of his most favorite songs. It was a slow, longing song of a stone cold Motown hit by the Isley Brothers. When Stewart decided to tackle it again, Michael Ostin suggested he have Ronald Isley appear on the song as well.

It is a stoke of genius. The two men mesh so well. The song is more in line with the original version, opposed to Rod’s more laid back, heartbreak version from 1975. Stewart is top vocal form. He takes the song and gives it the proper Rod Stewart hug of passion and rasp.

Grade: A

303. Downtown Train (Tom Waits)

Brought to Our Hero by record executive and thinks he knows Rod better than anyone, Rob Dickens, the story goes that Dickins had Rod sit in his office and tell him, “listen to this song, don’t say anything just listen.” When it was over, he told Stewart to listen to it again.

Stewart was in love with the song. But he felt Waits had a strong song lyrically but Stewart that the chorus could use a punch up with the beginning, “Will I see you tonight? On a downtown train?”

To say this is an amazing song would be an understatement. This is one of the songs I point to when people ask me “Which song do you think Rod Stewart sing the best on?” I think it’s a toss up between Downtown Train, Lost in You and Rhythm of My Heart.

Bob Seger claims to have heard it first and accused Rod of rushing his version out. Seger claims it was him, not Dickins who gave Stewart the idea in 1989. Stewart has denied this and since he is my favorite singer and there are multiple people that tell the story of how he heard the song, I believe Stewart.

Grade: A+

There is an early version of Downtown Train that appears on the deluxe digital version of Vagabond Heart. It is much closer to Waits’ original. It is interesting to hear this version and the version that Stewart ended up releasing, a more restrained Stewart gives the song a more mystic quality to it, it is good but I prefer the punched up version.

Grade: A

304. I Don’t Want to Talk About It (1989 Verison) (Danny Whitten)

In 1989 Stewart was a better/stronger singer than he was in 1975. Not a diss, he is the greatest rock ‘n’ roll singer of all time no matter the year. But, he had grown so much and added so much depth to his voice it is cool to hear him tackle old songs and re-record them so we can hear the power and change in his voice.

The 1989 version of I Don’t Want to Talk About It is more slick, with Stewart delivering an all time great performance. By being more slick, it does lose some of the loneliness of the original recording. Both however are brilliant in their own ways. No matter the version, you are listening to one of the greatest ballads in rock.

Grade: A+

Storyteller was a great way for the world to get ready for Rod’s next album. Storyteller on the success of both, This Old Heart of Mine and Downtown Train sold over 2 million copies. Stewart spent most of 1990 recording a new album. Stewart’s father passed away during the recording and Stewart dedicated 1991’s Vagabond Heart to his father Bob.

Vagabond Heart March 26, 1991

305. Rhythm of My Heart (Marc Jordan, John Capek)

Invoking powerful images of the sacrifice the men and the women of the military make, Stewart delivers one of his best in Rhythm of My Heart. Stewart is all over this song. From a powerful delivery of the chorus, “Oh the rhythm of my heart beats like a drum, with the words I love you rolling off of my tongue, never will I roam, for I know my place is home, where the ocean meets the sky we will be sailing.”

This song was rightfully a monster hit. The video is also first class. The song will give you goosebumps.

Grade: A+

306. Rebel Heart (Rod Stewart, Jeff Golub, Chuck Kentis, Carmine Rojas)

A blistering, funny song about going on a date with a woman that is just not interested in you. With Our Hero’s trademark charm and self deprecating humor makes Rebel Heart a winning rock song.

I love the way Rod describes his date, “she came to the door wearing a suit and tie, her hair cropped short, I couldn’t figure out why.” And the last verse of “Evening wound up on a very sad note, I drove her home and then she went for my throat, she said, “it’s fairly obvious I ain’t attracted to you, you bore me to tears, honest you do, and by the way I can’t stand your British…”

Grade: A

An early version of Rebel Heart can be found on the digital deluxe version of Vagabond Heart. Not quite done, different lyrics and the music still trying to find its groove, it nonetheless gives you a glimpse into the studio with Stewart and band, for fans only.

307. Broken Arrow (Robbie Robertson)

A beautiful song, that Rod found and owns. Robertson’s version is also really wonderful. Robertson dropped his version in 1987, and Stewart much like he did with Downtown Train, transforms the song slightly with a more forceful reading. Stewart also brings the drums forward, giving it an earthly sound.

The biggest change you will hear is in the phrasing. The most noticeable is the aching way Stewart sings, “Do you feel what I feel? Do you feel what I feel?! Ah, can you see what I see, can you cut past the misery.”

Stewart is in top vocal form, and the public agreed. It soared to number 20 on the Billboard Charts.

Grade: A

308. It Takes Two (with Tina Turner) (William “Mickey” Stevenson, Sylvia Moy)

The lead single from Vagabond Heart, brought two legends together for a blistering cover of It Takes Two, first made famous by Marvin Gaye and Kim Weston. Not a surprise that this was hit. Stewart and Turner have appeared in concert together several times and they have undeniable chemistry.

Not only a big hit in Europe, but it was also the center of a Pepsi ad campaign, which included a fun commercial/video.

Grade: A

309. When a Man’s In Love (Rod Stewart, Jeff Golub, Chuck Kentis, Carmine Rojas)

Our Hero perfectly captures how it feels to be in love. A winning song that finds Stewart absolutely owning the room with a powerful reading, full of confidence and power.

I especially love, “Oh but don’t it make you want smile and dance, may God bless us all with a little romance.” Awesome guitar work, peppered with strings and a driving drum beat gives this ballad some real power.

Grade: B+

310. You Are Everything (Thom Bell, Linda Creed)

First dropped in 1971 by The Stylistics, Rod tackles a soul classic and does an ok job updating the music to a more adult contemporary styling. It is not a bad cover, nor does Rod not sing well, it’s just a little too safe after the blistering start to the album.

Grade: B-

311. The Motown Song (Larry John McNally)

Our Hero can take a song that has somewhat silly lyrics and make an absolute smash out of it (see Love Touch). The Motown Song isn’t as silly as some of the other songs he’s tackled, in fact Stewart’s impassioned phrasing and singing make this song a blast.

The video is also a stone cold classic. Having an animated version of Stewart tangle with his contemporaries make for one hell of a good time. Plus, The Temptations sing on the song as well, giving it more depth. Such a joyous song that can drag you out of the gutter.

Grade: A-

312. Go Out Dancing (Rod Stewart, Jeff Golub, Chuck Kentis)

Much like Young Turks, Go Out Dancing has an incredible hook from the keyboards. Once again, there is a Rod Stewart song that is on a Rod Stewart album that should’ve been a hit. Go Out Dancing, has the feel of Dynamite to me.

A fun song that has a guitar solo, Stewart at top vocal form and it’s a Stewart original that deserved to be on the radio. Songs like this should have given Stewart confidence to keep on writing songs. But, shockingly, it seems the powers that be at Warner Bros. (Cough Dickins Cough) thought Stewart was a better interpreter of other people’s songs. It would also play into the next two years and an album that was lost for 17 years, but more on that later.

For now, just know that Go Out Dancing is a Stewart classic and should be cranked at maximum volume.

Grade: A+

313. No Holding Back (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Kevin Savigar)

“So when the music starts, just flow from your heart, like the coming of an early spring.” Another song that has Our Hero pleading with a friend to not let his head get in the way of feelings. The chorus is sing along great, “Give it all you got, no holding back, let the light into your soul, ain’t it better to lose a love than to never love at all.”

Stewart is so good in this song, my favorite moment being, “die in her arms if she wants you to, be thankful for each passin’ day” Chills.

Grade: A

314. Have I Told You Lately (Van Morrison)

It is always shocking to me that a curmudgeon like Van Morrison is capable of writing such beautiful love songs. Appearing on Morrison’s “Avalon Sunset” in 1989, and was a moderate success. The song however, has some poignant and beautiful lyrics. Morrison’s version is a great mellow song that he delivers with aplomb.

Stewart takes what made Morrison’s song winning and adds his powerful vocals to it. There is a version of this song that took on a life of its own a couple years later, but we will tackle that soon.

Grade: B+

315. Moment of Glory (Rod Stewart, Jeff Golub, Chuck Kentis, Carmine Rojas)

When a traveling salesman’s affair is discovered by his wife, he learns that his fleeting Moment of Glory, was not worth it.

A song that is up beat with a Motown style feel to it, Stewart again crushes it vocally. Fighting guitars undercut the seriousness of the lyrics, which make for a really interesting listen. Stewart pleads to the listener, “Would you give it all up for a moment of glory?”

Grade: B

313. If Only (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Kevin Savigar)

Nothing like slowing everything down to close out an album with brilliant guitar work. What makes Stewart so successful in my opinion, is his ability to connect to the listener with pure emotion. “If only I ever noticed, the sadness in her eyes, she’d still be in my arms tonight, if only.”

My favorite line is, “If only I said I’m sorry, I’d been a much better man, she’d still be in my arms tonight, if only.”

Every time I hear this song it makes me reflect on how to be grateful for the woman and life that I have.

A classic, that again should have made its way to the radio.

Grade: A

Vagabond Heart continued Stewart’s hot streak. Rising to number 10 in the USA and number 2 in the UK, the album is also platinum in at least 8 countries. What is remarkable, is that there are some gems that did not make the album, which can be found on the digital extended version and of course, The Rod Stewart Sessions.

314. Sweet Soul Music (Live) (Sam Cooke, Arthur Conley, Otis Redding)

A joyous song that was recorded live with some incredible energy, with horns and background vocals peppering Rod’s energetic vocals. Not the deepest song lyrically but a hell of a lot of fun. Stewart’s call of “Oh Yeah!” when you think the song is over, only to have it start up again is magic.

Grade: B+

315. Somebody to Hold (Studio Rough) (Rod Stewart and band)

Take note of studio rough. Not close to being done, with some rough music and rough Stewart gibberish. As you listen to it, my guess is it that Stewart had an idea for the chorus but that’s it as the verses are nonsense. I also have no idea who the writers, I am guessing. For fans who want to own all of Stewart’s songs.

Grade: D-

316. A Good Lover is Hard to Find (Rod Stewart)

This is an awesome track. It is completed and some of Rod’s most clever lyrics, “At a Shanghai bus stop, a young girl blew me a kiss, she said “me and my sister will make you an offer you can’t resist.”

We follow Our Hero as he has sexual encounters around the world, with Stewart’s trademark humor and wit. I have no idea why this was left of Vagabond Heart, my only guess is that its racy, non-PC lyrics did not fit with the rest of the album, but I could also say that about Rebel Heart.

Another one of Stewart’s “dirty” songs that I love.

Grade: A+

317. May You Never (John Martyn)

The late John Martyn wrote and performed this song in 1973. And his version is a rambling, brilliant folk song. You should seek it out. Eric Clapton also recorded this song, a pop version for his album, Slowhand, which I think is “meh”.

Stewart takes Martyn’s way and holy cow, what a performance. Only a guitar, I am not sure who is playing guitar, my guess is Jim Cregan, it is the only instrument on this song, except for Stewart’s throat. It is brilliant, it is one of the songs I am most grateful for that was discovered in 2009, it is that good. Don’t listen to the critics who say that Stewart betrayed his gifts in the mid 1970’s, play this song for them, they will be eating their words.

Grade: A+

318. My Town (Glass Tiger featuring Rod Stewart) (Jim Cregan, Alan Frew, Alan Connelly, Wayne Parker)

Released in August of 1991, is this fun little ditty from the Canadian band Glass Tiger. With Scottish lyrics and his writing partner Jim Cregan lending a hand to the song writing, Stewart was asked if he would like to be a part of the song, which he did.

It is a nice song about the place Alan Frew grew up in Scotland with some powerful vocals from him as well. Stewart for his part pipes in and delivers the goods. Stewart is invested in the song and it shows in his performance.

Grade: B+

With the success of Vagabond Heart, there was pressure from Warner Bros for Stewart to put out another album. This is where history and folklore collide in Stewart’s career. The singles selected for Vagabond Heart, were not written by Rod. Stewart mentioned that he started to think that he was not a good song writer and executives at Warner’s had him thinking that too.

I am not sure how the idea of Once In A Blue Moon came to be, as there are a couple of stories that I have read and floating around the world, the most likely one is that Stewart, with his song writing confidence shot, decided with Trevor Horn to record an album of covers. Not any covers but ones that Stewart loved and wanted a crack at. But the powers that be intervened. And Stewart’s recordings from the Summer of 1992 where lost, until 2010. Some of these songs where released on a compilation album, Lead Singer, with different mixes, while others were b-sides to singles, again with different mixes.

Once In A Blue Moon Summer 1992

319. Ruby Tuesday (Mick Jagger, Keith RIchards)

Released by some unknown rock band in 1967, The Rolling Stones had a hit on their hands with a psychedelic, mellow rock song that turns it up for the chorus, and all the way to the top of the charts.

Stewart’s cover is brilliant. He ditches the flutes and heavy bass for a piano opening and full orchestra. One of Stewart’s under appreciated talents as an interpreter of other peoples songs is that he slightly changes some of the lyrics or tempo making the song take on a whole new life. Here he changes the chorus ever so slightly, “Goodbye Ruby Tuesday, who could hang a name on you? When you change with every new day, still I’m Gonna miss you.” He speeds up the chorus, giving the song a more purposeful drive and then slows down the verses giving the whole endeavor a dream like quality.

Grade: A

The version of Ruby Tuesday that appears on the “official release” of Lead Vocalist, features a slightly different vocal take and a more robust mix, it is still a great cover, but I prefer the Once In A Blue Moon version.

320. The Groom’s Still Waiting at the Altar (Bob Dylan)

A Bob Dylan song that appears on his Shot of Love album, Stewart brings the guitars way up, with them being the driving force of the song. Dylan has back up singers give the song a southern blues feel. Stewart goes straight into the blues and gives it a much more rough a tumble feeling. Stewart really sinks his teeth into this song and gives one hell of a performance.

Grade: B+

There are several versions of The Groom’s Still Waiting at the Altar that you can find. The first official release of the song appeared on the 1995 single, This. Again with a slightly different mix than on Once In A Blue Moon. Another different mix appears on 2009’s The Rod Stewart Sessions.

321. Shotgun Wedding (Ray Hammond)

The dreary sound of “Here Comes the Bride” gives way to a fun little ditty that finds Our Hero, desperate to marry his girl after her father threatens him with a gun.

The earliest version of Shotgun Wedding I can find is from 1966, by Roy C. Stewart sticks pretty close to the original, even down to the spoken words. Stewart for his part, does add a third verse, which he states on Lead Vocalist, he doesn’t know from where it just happened. Fun and breezy, with a funny accompanying music video.

Grade: B

An identical version of Shotgun Wedding appears on Lead Vocalist.

322. The Downtown Lights (Paul Buchanan)

A beautiful song that is haunting and poignant. This song will appear later on an official Stewart album, but here the mix is different and the vocals slightly different, more restrained.

The Downtown Lights first appeared on the Scottish band The Blue Nile’s album Hats. Trevor Horn stated that he was listening to Hats and Rod told him, “I’ve heard this song, Trevor, I fucking love it!” Me too Rod, me too.

Grade: A

323. Windy Town (Chris Rea)

The guitar, the piano at the beginning of Windy Town, immediately get you in the mood for a sweeping tale of a bitter, windy town. First appearing on Chris Rea’s Dancing With Strangers, there it is a fast, upbeat song to juxtapose the harsh lyrics.

Stewart forgoes that. He chooses to lean into the more cold aspects of the song. Rea is a good singer, but Stewart emotes so much more, giving the song much more life.

Grade: A-

There is a piano version of Windy Town that appears on 2009’s The Rod Stewart Sessions that reminds everyone that Rod Stewart is one of the greatest singers of all time. It’s brilliant.

324. This (Marc Jordan, John Capek)

A sweeping power ballad from the writing team that gave Stewart one of his biggest hits, Rhythm of My Heart, This is a little more restrained but the lyrics are incredible.

In Stewart’s vocal cords This absolutely soars. When I hear this song, I picture Rod leaning his head back, closing his eyes and singing his heart out.

Grade: B+

325. Stand Back (Stevie Nicks, Prince Rogers Nelson)

One might think that Our Hero tackling the driving 80’s beat of a hit by Stevie Nicks would not be a good idea, I however think this cover of Stand Back is brilliant. Stewart allows the song to slowly build to said beat, with an orchestra introducing us to the cold, dark world of love.

I was not a fan of Stewart’s gender swap of (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Man. I adore it here. Stewart once again proves that no one can sing rock ‘n’ roll like he can, leaving behind a wake of pale imitators.

Stewart also ditches the more synth driven original in favor of a full band experience. Both are great and both deserve your attention.

Grade: A+

Stand Back also appears, nearly identical on Lead Vocalist. The only change is the intro is roughly 5 seconds longer

326. Let The Day Begin (Michael Been)

A driving, 80’s flavored song that was first made a hit by The Call. Stewart retains the power of the song while adding some Celtic flair and Stewart delivers a winning performance.

Stewart is one of the best in music to give sincere readings and elevating material to something new. The Call’s original is great, Let The Day Begin takes on a new meaning in the hands of Rod Stewart.

Grade: A

There are two other versions of Let The Day Begin. Stewart’s version first appeared on the Unplugged…and Seated single for Have I Told You Lately. This version is a slightly different mix with the same lyrics. On The Rod Stewart Sessions, again we find an alternate mix that is more synth driven. I think the Once In A Blue Moon version is the best.

327. First I Look At The Purse (William Robertson, Robert Rogers)

A groovy, hit from The Contours of Do You Love Me fame. Stewart goes full on blues with First I Look At The Purse would fit right in with his early efforts with Jeff Beck. Slowing the song down and adding a winking change-jingling sound gives the song a dirty feel.

It is also funny to hear Stewart sing only about caring about how much money a woman has. The man has literally dated some of the most beautiful women in the world.

Grade: B+

A nearly identical version of First I Look At The Purse appears on Lead Vocalist. The big difference is the mix, it isn’t quite as down and dirty.

328. Tom Traubert’s Blues (Waltzing Matilda) (Tom Waits)

A beautiful song with beautiful and complicated lyrics, sung beautifully by Our Hero. Of all the iterations of the songs that appeared on Once In A Blue Moon, Tom Waits’ Tom Traubert’s Blues (Waltzing Matilda) is the only one that has not been remixed or changed. Stewart and Trevor Horn knew they had a winner. Even without an “album” for it to be on, the single shot to number 6 in the U.K.

The complicated lyrics are sung with such conviction by Stewart that you feel like he is telling you a story and is an old friend. I love this song. I love the music. I love how well Stewart sings it.

Grade: A+

Once In A Blue Moon was unceremoniously scrapped. The fans would not hear the album as intended until 2010. Some of the songs would show up on different Stewart albums, or be b-sides to singles Stewart would release over the next few years. A lost art in music seems to be the complete album. And that’s exactly what Once In A Blue Moon was, a complete, beautiful album. With the release of The Rod Stewart Sessions, more winning songs from the recording sessions finally made it out for public consumption. There is some hidden tracks on Once In A Blue Moon and Stewart did not rest after he completed Once In A Blue Moon.

329. First I Look At The Purse (Fast Version) (William Robertson, Robert Rogers)

In the vain of the J. Geils Band’s version, but a little more rocking, Stewart first tried First I Look At The Purse as a straight rock ‘n’ roll song. Stewart changed his mind and went for a full on blues number, which I believe is more effective. There is merit here but it loses its bite.

Grade: B

330. The Groom’s Still Waiting At The Altar (Run through version) (Bob Dylan)

I really funny and enlightening outtake that takes the listener on a nearly 20 minute breakdown on how Stewart as not only the singer, but also the producer/interpreter of music lands on an idea. It is awesome to hear Stewart figure out what he likes and how he arrives at the guitar’s contribution to the opening of the song and the sound he wants it to make.

Grade: A

331. In A Broken Dream (1992) (Featuring David Gilmour and John Paul Jones) (David Bentley)

In the biggest, how in the hell was this never released, Stewart revisited his 1969 hit, In A Broken Dream with Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour shredding his guitar and Led Zepplin’s John Paul Jones on the organ. Not only that but Stewart has grown by leaps and bounds as a singer. This is a brilliant hard rock song.

This will give you goosebumps. It is a supergroup that is absolutely destroying a song. This is the definitive version of this song. This should have gotten more press when it was included on The Rod Stewart Sessions.

Grade: A+

332. This Wheel’s On Fire (Richard Danko, Bob Dylan)

Speaking of fire, Stewart tears into another Dylan song that is aggressive and full of anger. He choose the much more fun The Groom’s Still Waiting At The Altar as the Dylan song for his album, but this might be the stronger of the two.

My only guess is that maybe it didn’t fit musically with the rest of the album as it is a harsh, and hard song.

Grade: B+

333. I Wanna Stay Home (Andy Strummer)

I feel like this a lot of days. I don’t want to go anywhere, I just want to stay home. First appearing on an album by San Francisco’s Jellyfish, Stewart adds so much more by ditching the candy coated “bops” and the horns in favor of a more nuanced performance.

Stewart again is crushing it vocally, this song could have easily found its way onto the album, it is really good.

Grade: A-

334. Your Song (from Two Rooms) (Elton John, Bernie Taupin)

In a celebration of the the songwriting duo of Elton John and Bernie Taupin, Rod contributed a well constructed and beautiful version of the 1970 top 10 hit Your Song.

Stewart does John proud by updating the sound but not losing what made the song a hit in the first place. Stewart scored a moderate hit with his cover, topping out 41 on the top 100, but number 6 on the adult contemporary charts.

Grade: B+

With Once In A Blue Moon finished, Stewart would make an appearance on MTV Unplugged. Eric Clapton’s Unplugged album was a huge commercial and critical hit. Stewart took the opportunity to dust off some of his forgotten gems and reunite with Ronnie Wood. Stewart’s appearance was a huge success, so big in fact that Warner Bros decided to release Unplugged…and Seated and completely shelf Once In A Blue Moon. Although it was an interesting move, it seemed to be the right one. Revisiting and giving new life to his biggest and best songs made Unplugged…and Seated a worldwide smash hit, selling over 3 million copies in the USA alone.

Unplugged…and Seated May 24, 1993

335. Hot Legs (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

Right off the bat, we knew we were in for something special. A musically toned down version of Hot Legs doesn’t seem like it would work. But it does. It’s fun, bouncy and Stewart’s voice is brought front and center.

Grade: A+

336. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright) (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart)

A song made for the unplugged setting, Rod’s 1976 smash hit translates brilliantly. Having his backing vocals echo the chorus and and amazing vocal embellishments to song add a new layer to a great song.

Grade: A+

337. Handbags and Gladrags (Unplugged Version) (Mike d’Abo)

In Storyteller’s liner notes, Stewart remarked how people were asking him to perform this live. He obliges on Unplugged…and Seated making it the perfect vehicle for it to be heard for the first time in 23 years.

Grade: A

338. Cut Across Shorty (Unplugged Version) (Wayne Walker, Marijohn Wilkin)

Another dusty gem that was a favorite of The Faces makes its triumphant return to Stewart’s set list. Here he exudes happiness as Ronnie Wood makes his way to the stage. The big difference from the previous version is Stewart is a better singer here, and this song pops.

Grade: A+

339. Every Picture Tells A Story (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood)

An early gem fits the unplugged setting perfectly. Stewart does change some of the non-PC lyrics but the song remains a slice of Stewart’s troubadour days.

Grade: A+

340. Maggie May (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart, Martin Quittenton)

Stewart’s trademark song gets a slower opening with Stewart letting his voice be center stage. It is brilliant. Lately on tour Stewart has gone back to the slower opening allowing the audience to sing along with him a maximum volume.

Grade: A+

341. Reason to Believe (Unplugged Version) (Tim Hardin)

Remarking that he and Ronnie Wood hadn’t done this together since they recorded it, 22 years ago. Reason to Believe raced up the charts, peaking at number 19 on the Top 100 and number 2 on the Adult Contemporary charts.

Grade: A+

342. People Get Ready (Unplugged Version) (Curtis Mayfield)

Taking a song that he and Jeff Beck did so brilliantly in 1985 and giving it new life as an orchestrated sweeping ballad is another inspired choice. It is more moving and although the ‘85 version is in its own right awesome, with Stewart’s voice free of studio embellishments and echoes make this a winner.

Grade: A+

343. Have I Told You Lately (Unplugged Version) (Van Morrison)

One of the latest songs Stewart would tackle for Unplugged appeared on his last studio album. And while that version is good, the live version of Have I Told You Lately takes on a life of its own. Removing the sterile aspect of the studio, you hear Our Hero sing his heart out. In fact, he is so in love with Rachel Hunter during this period, he dedicates the song to her and cries and chokes up at the end.

Grade: A

344. Tom Traubert’s Blues (Waltzing Matilda) (Unplugged Version) (Tom Waits)

A song that translates really well to the unplugged brand, but also sounds just like the album version so while still amazing doesn’t break any new ground.

Grade: A

345. The First Cut Is The Deepest (Unplugged Version) (Cat Stevens)

Another great choice for the setting Stewart’s 1976 hit, The First Cut is the Deepest is another song that benefits from the backing vocals adding a whole new layer of depth.

Grade: A+

346. Mandolin Wind (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart)

What else can be said about one of Stewart’s greatest songs? Here he plays banjo (rather well) and makes me wish that he would play this song live and I would be there. One can dream…

Grade: A+

347. Highgate Shuffle (Unplugged Version) (Traditional arranged by Rod Stewart)

One of two new songs for this album, Highgate Shuffle is a blues number that Stewart repurposed for his unplugged concert. It is fun and the band really shines. Not the deepest song, but damn is it fun to sing along to.

Grade: B

348. Stay With Me (Unplugged…and Seated Version) (Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood)

Stewart’s playful banter with Ronnie Wood before this classic of The Faces gave the album is winking title. Another balls out rock song like Hot Legs that you don’t think would work in this setting but it does. From Wood’s guitar to Stewart’s vocals it all works.

Grade: A+

349. Having A Party (Unplugged Version) (Sam Cooke)

Another new song that was a surprise hit for Stewart, he once again channels his hero Sam Cooke. It’s a joyous and celebratory way to end the album. It is the perfect closer and easy to sing along to. I loved when a couple of years ago Stewart opened his concert with Having A Party, it works as a great opener and closer.

Grade: A

There are several other songs from Rod’s performance on Unplugged that were either released as a b-side single or on the deluxe version of the album from 2009.

350. Gasoline Alley (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood)

The title track from Stewart’s classic second studio album is another showcase of why a lot of Stewart’s songs work so well as an unplugged song. It doesn’t change the song at all but hearing Wood and Stewart on Gasoline Alley again brings a tear to this Rod Stewart fans eye.

Grade: A+

351. Forever Young (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Kevin Savigar, Bob Dylan)

One of the joys of seeing Rod Stewart live is you know that he is always singing live. No backing vocals just him…and sometimes his cock ups. Here is a great version of his 1988 hit, that he promptly forgets the lyrics to during the final verse, thus endearing him to his fans more.

Grade: A

352. It’s All Over Now (Unplugged Version) (Bobby Womack, Shirley Womack)

Appearing on the b-side of Reason to Believe a fun, bouncy version of Stewart’s own that he recorded in 1970. He does fix the last verse that he changed in the 1970 version.

Grade: B+

353. The Killing of Georgie (Unplugged Version) (Rod Stewart)

The hardest song from the Unplugged set to track down, maybe due to the fact that Stewart tells the audience that he might mess it up, and he does. Anyways, if you find this in a totally legit way you get treated to a stripped down version of one of Rod’s best. And if you can find it, do. You won’t regret it.

Grade: A+

Stewart wasn’t done in 1993. He toured on the success of Unplugged…and Seated where he also added songs to his setlist that were new. You can find two of them on the awesome Tonight’s The Night: Live 1976-1998. The other was performed in Japan. But Stewart would save his biggest hit with two friends and a number 1 hit in November.

354. Baby Please Don’t Go (Live) (Joe Williams)

A blue song that Stewart sinks his teeth into with great abandon. It is fun and the crunchy guitars are great. Stewart’s vocal performance is great, the song isn’t deep, it’s just fun.

Grade: B

355. Twistin’ The Night Away/Chain Gang (Live) (Sam Cooke) (Sam Cooke, Charles Cooke)

Stewart loves Twistin’ The Night Away. It’s been a part of his setlist since the 70’s. Here he adds another Sam Cooke classic for a brief moment, but what a moment it is. The medleys that appear on his live albums are amazing. They give a glimpse on Stewart’s ear and how he can meld songs together.

Grade: A

356. My Girl (Live, Budokan, Japan) (Smokey Robinson, Ronald White)

One of the most famous songs of all time, Stewart tackles it and owns it. He sounds so good it is almost criminal. You can find Stewart’s version of this song on YouTube. You should. Stewart doesn’t veer too far from why the song is famous he just adds the Stewart voice to it and makes it to die for.

Grade: A+

357. All For Love (with Bryan Adams and Sting)(Bryan Adams, Robert “Mutt” Lange, Michael Kamen)

The story goes that Rod Stewart wasn’t originally supposed to be on All For Love. But a last minute cancellation by another big star left the door open for Our Hero. Stewart boarded a plane and laid down his vocals to one of the biggest hits of 1993.

Taking a cue from the film “The Three Musketeers” the idea was to put three huge stars together for one amazing power ballad, and boy do they deliver. I am biased but Stewart is the real powerhouse here. He can deliver a performance that no one can even come close to. Sting and Adams are great but they are no Stewart.

The chorus and the sweeping verses make this a sing along classic. Ready for a stadium and live performances. Rod doesn’t perform this, in fact I have only seen through setlist.fm it pop up in his concerts a handful of times. Which is really unusual since it was a number 1 hit on the Billboard Top 100. Oh well, just enjoy the power of rock stars being rock stars.

Grade: A

Stewart once again proved he can deliver hit after hit. There seemed to be no signs of him slowing down. Stewart however did slow down a little. After Unplugged…and Seated Stewart would take a two year break and a four year break from a studio album. Something almost unheard of for him. But he did not lose a step. Stay tuned for Part 10, In Which Our Hero Returns to His Roots.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 102, Night of the Living Dead (1990)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

102. Night of the Living Dead (1990) Directed by Tom Savini

The Movie: Johnnie (Bill Moseley) and his sister Barbara (Patricia Tallman) are on their way to their mother’s grave. They picker like siblings. At the cemetery, Johnnie teases Barbara about someone coming to get her. “They’re coming to get you Barbara!” Barbara pleads with her brother to stop, he doesn’t. The teasing continues as Johnnie notices a man stumbling towards them. Johnnie tells Barbara that the man is after Barbara. Barbara is horrified and tells Johnnie the man will her him teasing.

As the man approaches Barbara, he seems confused and injured. The man has a far away look in his eyes, and says, “I’m sorry.” Johnnie now concerned asks if the man is ok. Out of nowhere Barbara is attacked by a hideous looking man. Johnnie attempts to save Barbara and pulls the man off of her. Johnnie, however trips and hits his head on a gravestone, killing him. The man now sets his sights on Barbara and chases her to her car. Barbara gets inside and the man pursues her. Barbara gets away and runs to a farm house.

Inside the farm house all is quiet. Bacon is cooking on the stove and burnt. Barbara is attacked by another man. She is able to kill him and she runs outside. Pulling up in a pick up truck is a man named Ben (Tony Todd). Ben fights off more people who try attack them. Barbara is in shock. Ben explains to Barbara that he escaped a diner that was under attack by a horde of people. Ben explains to Barbara that he saw the people in the horde take may shots from a gun, and get right back up. Ben shares with Barbara that the only way to stop the dead is to incapacitate the brain.

Night falls in the farm, and more dead are slowly moving towards the farm house. Ben and Barbara learn that there are more survivors in the basement of the home. Harry Cooper (Tom Towles), his wife Helen (McKee Anderson) their sick daughter Sarah (Heather Mazur), Tom (William Butler) and his girlfriend Judy Rose (Katie Finneran). Ben and Harry are odds right away. Ben says that he could’ve used his help and Harry states that he didn’t know if Ben was one of the dead or not. Ben and Harry are more at odds as Harry believes that the safest place in the house is the basement and Ben says that they should stay upstairs, board up the windows and fight the dead where they can run away if they need to.

Barbara explains to Ben that the dead are “so slow” and says they have guns they could walk right past them. Ben isn’t sold on Barbara’s idea and they continue to board up the house. Ben learns that Sarah is sick is because she was bitten by one of the dead. Little do the survivors know, but the noise of them boarding up the house is attracting a lot of the dead. Tom tells Ben that there is a gas pump on the farm and they could drive Ben’s truck there and fill up the gas and escape. Tom tells Ben that it is Uncle’s home and that he might have the keys around the house. They find a set of keys on Tom’s Uncle’s corpse and they make their way to the gas pump. Ben is thrown from the truck and is tied up fighting the dead. Judy Rose and Tom arrive at the gas pump and are shocked to learn that the keys do not unlock the gas pump. With the dead closing in, Tom panics and shoots the pumps lock causing a massive explosion, killing him and Judy Rose.

Ben makes his way back to the house and is locked out. Harry has attacked and taken Barbara’s gun. In the basement, Sarah rises and is now one of the dead. She attacks and kills her mom. Ben is able to get inside and he starts to fight Harry. Sarah shambles her way upstairs and Ben pleads with Harry to kill her. He refuses. Ben kills Sarah, which leads to a gun fight between the two men as the dead start to pour into the house. Ben and Harry shoot each other and are badly wounded. Harry escapes upstairs and finds a string to the attic door and retreats there. Ben tells Barbara to leave which she does reluctantly. Ben makes his way to the basement and kills Helen as she is now one of the living dead. As Ben sits down by the workbench in the basement he notices a key that is labeled “gas pump”.

Barbara learns that she was correct in her assessment of the dead. They move very slow and if walks fast enough they cannot catch her. Barbara finds a group of locals that are hunting the dead and looking for survivors. Barbara is shocked to learn that the locals are hanging the dead from trees and using them as target practice and wrestling them drunk in an animal pen.

Barbara returns to the farm house. The rescuers are sawing the basement door. When it opens, Ben appears at the top of the stairs, dead. He is killed. Barbara is startled by Harry who has survived the night. Harry is happy and surprised that Barbara came back. Barbara shoots Harry in the head killing him and tells the rescue team, “another one for the fire.”

Why I Love Night of the Living Dead (1990): As crazy as it might seem, I love this remake of my most favorite horror movie ever. The first half of the film is nearly identical to the original, with slight variations to scenes. Where the film becomes its own is the second half. The biggest change is in the character Barbara. In the original film she is catatonic from the attack at the cemetery and is no help to Ben or the other survivors. Here, she is able and willing to fight for her life. Patricia Tallman gives a brilliant performance as a woman pushed to the edge and fights back.

George Romero wanted to remake Night of the Living Dead partially due to the fact that he did not really profit from it’s original release due to a copyright snafu which immediately put the film into the public domain. George Romero convinced Tom Savini to direct the film after he was hired just for the special effects. Savini shows he is more than capable of delivering scares, action and tension.

Tony Todd as Ben is my favorite part of the film. He is smart and tough but flawed like all of us. His recanting of his escape from the diner is something of legend. His delivery is so cool, so focused and so intense, it is one of my favorite scenes in horror period.

Night of the Living Dead 1990 is wonderfully paced never giving you a chance to catch your breath, and just like the original we learn that the dead are scary but people might be the scariest creatures on Earth.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 103, Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

103: Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) Directed by George Miller

The Movie: In the future, resources are scarce and fought over. Max (Tom Hardy) lives in this world and attempts to protect people. Max is haunted by his failures and is captured by the followers of the vicious Warlord Immortan Joe (Hugh Keays-Byrne). Max is strapped to the car of Nux (Nicholas Hoult) as a blood bag. Joe instructs his lieutenant Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) to trade with neighboring allies. Joe is giving them produce for fuel.

But, Furiosa has another plan, onboard her War Rig is Joe’s five wives, Toast (Zoe Kravitz), Capable (Riley Keough) The Dag (Abbey Lee), The Splendid Angharad (Rosie Huntington-Whiteley) and Cheedo (Courtney Eaton). When Joe learns of Fuiosa’s betrayal, he sends an army after them. A battle ensues and Furiosa is able to escape by driving into a sandstorm. Everyone but Nux, who tries to sacrifice himself by blowing up the rig. Max has other plans as he escapes his restraints and ties up Nux.

Furiosa escapes but her rig breaks down after the storm and she is forced to stop and repair it. At first, Max wants to steal the rig, but realizes that he needs a code to bypass the security system. Max agrees to help Furiosa and Joe’s wives escape from him.

Furiosa made a deal with a biker gang that she encountered in a canyon. Fuel for her safe passage. The gang has other ideas and turns on Furiosa. The gang is soon interrupted of their treachery when they see the army of Joe approaching. The gang sets off an explosion that stops the army and they peruse the rig. Joe uses a monster truck to jump over the rubble and is after the rig. Nux, is able to jump on the rig but trips and is stopped. Max has his hands full and is helped by Angharad, who falls from the rig and is killed when Joe runs her over. Joe overcome with grief and anger stops his pursuit.

That night after the rig gets stuck in a swampland, Furiosa tells Max that she is headed to the “Green Place” a beautiful place were there is a tribe of women. Furiosa tells Max that she was taken from her home when she was a child and she plans on returning there with Joe’s five wives. Furiosa looks around and recognizes a landmark from her childhood. Furiosa sees a woman and calls out to her. The woman summons more women and tells Furiosa that they recognize her as a child of theirs that was kidnapped. She also explains that the swampland that the rig is stuck in is all that remains from her former land.

The rig leaves Max behind and they attempt to find a new home. Max is haunted however by a child he failed to save in the past. Max races to catch up to the rig and tells Furiosa that instead of running they should take the fight to Joe, and take the Citadel that has water and crops. Furiosa agrees and she meets Joe’s army head on.

The battle is a hard fought one, with many casualties. Max takes on Rictus Erectus (Nathan Jones) and Furiosa goes after Joe. Furiosa kills Joe and this time Nux sacrifices himself to kill Rictus. Max realizing that Furiosa is dying, transfuses his blood into hers, saving her life.

At the Citadel, Joe’s corpse is presented to the citizens, who tear it apart. Max and Furiosa share one last look and go their separate ways.

Why I Love Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): Take a well established action franchise and turn it up to 11, and that’s how you get Fury Road. The movie is just plan badass. The story is a simple one and it totally works.

The basic plot of trying to escape and then realizing that you can’t outrun your past forever is a universal theme. The action set pieces are some of the coolest around and they are directed with such flair by Miller.

After seeing the last two Fast & Furious movies, made me appreciate Fury Road even more. All the action takes place on camera. There are no fully CGI cars that make the car chases and combat look fake. It all takes place in the real world, making the movie that much more impactful. Seriously, watch the making of and see how they pulled off the insane stunts, it’s incredible.

The cinematography is world class too. John Seale is one hell of a cinematographer whose credits include such diverse films as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Rain Man.

Insane car battles, badass characters and stunning cinematography make Mad Max: Fury Road one of the best action movies of the 2010’s.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 104, Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

104. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981) Directed by Steve Miner

The Movie: It’s been two months since Alice (Adrienne King) fought for her life at Camp Crystal Lakeand killed Pamela Voorhees (Betsy Palmer) by lopping her head off with a machete. Alice is still tormented by nightmares of Jason, Pamela’s son who “drowned” and attacked her from the murky depths of Crystal Lake. After getting off the phone with her mom. Alice is startled by a cat in her window. Alice breathes a sigh of relief. Alice opens her refrigerator and finds Pamela Voorhees rotting, head inside. Alice’s head is grabbed from behind and she is stabbed through the temple by an ice pick.

Five years later, at a camp across from where the Night at Camp Blood took place, Paul Holt (John Furey) is training a new set of counselors at the Packanack Lodge. Joining Paul is his girlfriend Ginny (Amy Steel) who is late on the first day. Other counselors include Ted (Stuart Charno), Terry (Kristen Baker), Mark (Tom McBride), Sandra (Marta Kober), her boyfriend Jeff (Bill Randolph), Vickie (Lauren-Marie Taylor) and Scott (Russell Todd).

The first night at the Lodge, Paul tells the story of Jason. Pamela’s “dead” son. Paul tells everyone that Pacanack Lodge is on the same lake where Jason drowned. Paul continues that the girl that survived “Camp Blood” has been missing, with only a bloody drenched home as a clue. Paul says that Jason did not die, he has been living in the woods, living off the land, and protecting his land. Killing anyone foolish enough to enter his woods. As Paul finishes his story, Ted jumps out and scares everyone. Paul tells everyone that that’s the last he wants to hear about the ghost story of Camp Crystal Lake. Crazy Ralph (Walt Gorney) arrives at the Lodge to warn everyone, but is killed by an unseen killer.

The next day, Sandra convinces Jeff that they should go and explore Camp Crystal Lake. Jeff reluctantly agrees. On the way to the camp, Jeff and Sandra find a eviscerated dog, that looks a lot like Terry’s dog Muffin. The two lovers are stopped and caught by Deputy Winslow (Jack Marks). Deputy Winslow takes them back to Packanack Lodge to report them to Paul. Paul tells Sandra and Jeff their punishment is they have to stay back at the Lodge for the night, while others go into town to have fun.

As Deputy Winslow leaves the camp, he sees a man in with a burlap sack over his head run across the road and towards Camp Crystal Lake. Deputy Winslow gives chase, eventually finding a decaying shack in the middle of the woods. Deputy Winslow enters the shack. In the back of it he finds an altar and is smashed in the back of his skull with a hammer claw.

At the Lodge, Mark, Vickie, Terry, Scott, Sandra and Jeff all stay behind. Ted, Ginny and Paul head into town for one last night of partying at a bar. Terry decides it’s a good time to go skinny dipping and goes into the lake. As she exits the water, Scott takes her clothes and she chases him into the woods. Scott steps onto a snare trap and is stuck hanging upside down in a tree. Terry agrees to help Scott as long as he stops teasing her. He agrees and Terry rushes back to camp to get a knife to cut Scott down. Scott however, is a sitting duck and has his throat slashed and dies. Terry returns and finds Scott. She turns to run away but she runs right into the killer.

Back at the Lodge, a storm is rolling in. Sandra and Jeff go upstairs to have sex, leaving Vickie and Mark alone. Although Mark is in a wheelchair, he is handsome and full of confidence. Vickie and Mark flirt with Vickie asking if everything is paralyzed. When Mark says that he does ok, they decide they too will hook up. Vickie leaves to “freshen up”.

Mark is sitting on the deck Hearing lightning and what he believes are footsteps. Mark looks around and sees nothing. Out of nowhere, Mark takes a machete to the head so hard that it causes him to roll backwards down the stairs. The killer enters the Lodge, the killer is Jason (Steve Dash, who plays Jason throughout the film except for the climax where he was played by Warrington Gillette. Dash was credited as Jason’s Stunt Double, even though he was Jason for 2/3’s of the film. Gillette happily took the credit of being Jason. The producers learned that Gillette wasn’t a seasoned stunt performer as he led on and they had to replace him due to him not hitting marks and spots. It wasn’t until nearly 25 years later that fans learned who the “real” Jason was. Gillette for his part is gracious in interviews and is a fun person to listen to.) Jason grabs a spear and slowly makes his way up to the room where Jeff and Sandra are. Jason enters the room and slowly walks over to the couple laying on the bed. Jeff is on top of Sandra who is oblivious to his impending death. Sandra notices Jason, but it’s too late. He skewers them both in one horrific stab through both bodies impaling them both.

Vickie enters the Lodge looking for Mark. Vickie goes upstairs and enters Jeff and Sandra’s room. There she is attacked by Jason and killed.

Ted stays behind as Ginny and Paul head back to the camp. When they arrive, they notice that the Lodge is a mess. Ginny senses something is wrong. As they search the Lodge they move from one room to the next, eventually making their way into the kitchen. Ginny tells Paul that someone is in the room with them. Ginny sees Jason slowly stand to attack Paul.

Jason incapacitates Paul and beings to chase Ginny. Jason loses sight of Ginny and she happens to stumble across Jason’s shack. Ginny is horrified with what she sees. Before she can catch her breath, Jason is rushing towards his shed. Ginny makes her way to the back room; there she sees an altar with Jason’s newest victims and his mothers decapitated head. Ginny sees Pamela’s sweater. Ginny puts it on quickly and Jason bursts into the room. Ginny pretends to be Pamela and this confuses and makes Jason stop his attack. Ginny raises a machete with the intent to strike Jason. Jason sees his mother’s head and realizes he’s been tricked. Jason slashes Ginny’s leg with a pickaxe. Paul returns and fights with Jason again. Ginny picks up the machete and buries it into Jason, Jason “dies”. Ginny bends down and removes Jason’s mask, she and Paul are horrified with what they see.

Paul and Ginny make their way back to the cabin and get a surprise visitor, Muffin! We thought she was dead. Ginny reaches down and picks up Muffin and…Jason crashes through the window and grabs her!

Ginny however wakes up on a stretcher. Calling for Paul and realizing he is not there. Was Jason’s attack through the window just a dream?

Why I Love Friday the 13^th Part 2 (1981): As I have gotten older and rewatched (many times) my favorite slasher series, I have grown more and more fond of Friday the 13^th Part 2. When I watch the film, I realize I am watching a meaner, better made version of the first film. Friday the 13^th is an all time classic. Friday the 13^th Part 2 takes all the lessons learned from the first film and cranks them up. It has become my second favorite film in the series.

The film starts by introducing us to a cast of really likeable young adults. They are relatable, funny and believable. As we get to know them, the sense of dread that will befall them helps elevate Part 2 above the previous film. Killing Alice at the beginning tells the audience, no one is safe.

Part 2 also benefits from Jason being the antagonist. Betsy Palmer’s Pamela Voorhees is a cinematic classic. Jason however, is much more frightening. When he starts his all-out assault on the Lodge, the pace never lets up, never lets you catch your breath. Jason’s kills are brutal. The highlight for most people is the couple shish-kabob. To me, I think his most brutal kill and the one I point to for anyone that thinks Jason kills for teenagers misbehaving, is Mark. Mark is in a wheelchair, literally just sitting on the porch. His machete to the head is shocking as too is his descent down the stairs.

Amy Steel’s Ginny is a favorite for a reason. She’s funny, pretty and carries the film with her tenacity for the last 30 minutes. Steve Miner directs a lean, mean horror film that earns its place among the slasher genre’s best.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 105, Logan (2017)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

105. Logan (2017) Directed by James Mangold

The Movie: The year is 2029. Mutants have not been born in over 25 years. Logan (Hugh Jackman) is working as a limo driver and his healing factor is failing him. He also takes care of Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) with fellow mutant, Caliban (Stephen Merchant). Xavier has dementia and spends his days in a smelting plant in Mexico. His disease causes him to have seizures, so powerful that they have killed several X-Men.

Logan meets a nurse, Gabriela (Elizabeth Rodriguez) who pleads with Logan to escort her and Laura (Dafne Keen) to a place called Eden. A refuge near the American-Canadian border. Gabriela never makes the trip. She is killed by Pierce (Boyd Holbrook), a cyborg Chief of Security from the company, Transigen. Laura who is hiding in Logan’s limo is revealed as being a mutant, with powers similar to Logan. Logan, Xavier and Laura are able to escape, Caliban however, is captured by Pierce. Caliban has the ability to track mutants and is tortured by Pierce to find Logan.

On Gabriella’s phone, Logan discovers that she worked for Transigen. The company was using mutant DNA on children to see the effects and turn them into weapons. Most of the children were executed due to their unstable nature. Gabriella and other nurses helped some of the children escape, including Laura. Laura is like Logan because she was given his DNA. In essence, she is Logan’s daughter.

The trio make their way to Oklahoma City and Logan learns that the promise of Eden is nothing more than a place in a comic book. Logan and Laura are soon under attack from Pierce and his Reavers. Xavier however has a seizure, incapacitating everyone but Logan and Laura. They skewer them and escape Pierce.

Logan stumbles on a farmer named Will (Eriq La Salle) and help him and his family. After, Will invites Logan, Laura and Xavier to his home for dinner. After dinner the family and Logan are attacked by X-24, Logan’s clone, Pierce and the Reavers. The family and Xavier are all killed by X-24. Laura is kidnapped, Caliban blows himself and some Reavers up with a grenade. With the help of Will, Logan saves Laura and they escape.

Logan buries Xavier and passes out from his injuries. Laura is able to persuade Logan to go to North Dakota to see if Eden is real or not. When they arrive they meet fellow children that have escaped from Transigen. Logan sends Laura with the other mutants and decides not to follow them to Canada.

The Reavers arrive however and start to attack the children. Logan takes a serum given to him by the mutant Rictor (Jason Genao) that enhances all of Logan’s powers. Logan and Laura kill most of the Reavers. Leaving Pierce and Zander Rice (Richard E. Grant). Rice tells Logan that he killed his father at the Weapon X facility and there have been no more mutants because Rice genetically engineered crops and distributed the food into the worlds supply. Logan shoots Rice and kills hi and then critically injuries Pierce. Pierce is killed by the combined powers of the children and Logan is left to fight X-24 again. Rictor flips a truck onto X-24 but it doesn’t slow him down. He impales Logan on a tree branch. Laura loads the gun that Logan had and loads it with an adamantium bullet that Logan had intended for himself and shoots X-24, killing him.

Logan is dying and Laura takes his hand as he finally succumbs to his injuries. The children bury Logan and place a cross to mark his grave. Laura turns the cross on it’s side, making an “X” for the last X-Man.

Why I Love Logan (2017): Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine was always a highlight of the X-Men films. HIs first solo film was just ok, the second was pretty dope. But what the comic book world wanted was a mean, and dirty Wolverine film.

We got it and them some with Logan. Buoyed by an incredible and intense performance by Jackman, Logan gives us the blood letting we want from Wolverine and the poignant story his character deserved.

With the misstep of X-Men: The Last Stand, Fox wisely rebooted the X-Men franchise. They pulled off a great multiverse, multi-generational story in X-Men: Days of Future Past. Bringing Jackman back for that film made it clear the world missed Wolverine.

James Mangold steps into the directors chair, and his deft touch is equal parts heartache and action. The scene in the hotel is incredible and the events on the farm break your heart. After Logan finds Xavier and learns that X-24, his clone killed him he is overcome with grief, it is shot so beautifully and powerfully acted. My favorite scene in any X-Men film, hands down.

Don’t believe me that this film is incredibly written? It was nominated for an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Even though Jackman’s Logan returns for 2024’s Deadpool 3, Jackman only agreed to that film if they left Logan alone, because like Weapon X himself, this is where Wolverine’s story deserves to end.

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 106, Hot Fuzz (2007)

See you at the movies!

***Spoilers Ahead!!!***

106. Hot Fuzz (2007) Directed by Edgar Wright

The Movie: Private Constable Nicholas Angel (Simon Pegg) is in line for a promotion with the London Police Department. He is promoted to Sergeant but his co-workers dislike him and he is sent to a small town called Sandford, Gloucertershire, a beautiful and seemingly perfect town. In fact, it is always in consideration for “Village of the Year”.

Due to Angel’s high-level of productivity and coming from London, he finds the mundane life of Sandford boring and unfulfilling. He is appalled at his lazy and incompetent co-workers. He does strike up a friendship with PC Danny Butterman (Nick Frost) who he threw in jail for frunk driving. Danny is the son of the Chief Inspector Frank Butterman (Jim Broadbent). Angel also has to contend with the Neighbourhood Watch Alliance and the owner of the local grocery store, Simon Skinner (Timothy Dalton). Skinner invites Angel to the town’s performance of “Romeo and Juliet”. The lead actors are atrocious and are murdered soon after the play by a cloaked axe murderer.

The next morning Angel and Butterman are called out to a car accident. There Angel finds the two actors dead and decapitated from the “accident”. Angel doesn’t believe it was an accident and suspects foul play.

Angel and Butterman discover an illegal weapon storage on a call for a dispute and confiscate all the weapons. Butterman invites Angel over to watch his favorite cop-buddy films and their bond grows stronger.

That night the cloaked figure returns, and blows up the house of a wealthy land developer, George Merchant (Ron Cook). The next morning on scene Angel starts to suspect that the two crime scenes are related. Angel’s suspicions are verified by the local reporter, Tim Messenger (Adam Buxton) who tells Angel to meet him around the back of a church.

As Messenger is waiting for Angel, the cloaked figure pushes a portion of the church of the roof, landing on Messenger killing him. Angel is late meeting Messenger because he is buying a birthday gift for Danny. While talking to the florist, he learns that she is planning on selling her land to Merchant’s partners, who are rivals of Skinner and leaves to retrieve his notebook. The florist is stabbed by the cloaked figure and Angel gives chase. Angel loses the suspect but he returns to Skinner’s supermarket where he confronts Skinner whom he believes is behind the murders. Skinner however has an alibi and is not arrested.

Angel isn’t giving up. He believes there are multiple killers and returns to his hotel room. There he is attacked by Skinner’s employee Lurch (Rory McCann). Angel subdues Lurch and is able to learn of a meeting that the NWA is having at Sandford Castle. At the meeting Angel learns that NWA is lead by Frank and that they are behind the murders. Their reason for killing the townspeople is that the ones that are murdered could hurt the chances of Sandford winning “Village of the Year”. After learning that Frank’s wife committed suicide after failing to win ‘Village of the Year” he reveals that he will stop at nothing to win it. Angel escapes to the catacombs of the castle where he finds murdered individuals. Angel is caught by Danny and Danny stabs him, “killing” Angel.

Danny drives Angel to a gas station and tells him to run away to London. Inside the station Angel sees a bunch of movies on a rack that he and Danny become friends with after watching them. Angel returns to Sandford.

Angel breaks into the Sandford PD’s evidence vault and grabs all the weapons he confiscated earlier. Angel recruits Danny to help him take down the NWA. Danny agrees. After a shootout in a pub, Frank demands that the other officer’s arrest Angel and Danny. Instead, they join the fight against the NWA.

Angel and Danny chase Skinner to a model of Sandford and after a fight Skinner trips and impales himself through the lower jaw on a church spire.

After the shootout, Angel is asked to return to London, he declines and decides to remain in Sandford. After the arrests of the NWA, their last remaining member arrives at the PD and attacks the police with a blunderbuss. Danny jumps in front of a shot intended for Angel and an old sea mine is accidently set, killing the NWA member and destroying the PD.

Flash forward a year and Angel is now the Inspector of Sandford with Danny as his Sergeant.

Why I Love Hot Fuzz (2007): My first exposure to Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost was the awesome Shaun of the Dead (more on that much later). I loved that movie, which led me to their brilliant BBC show Spaced. I always look forward to what they do next.

Hot Fuzz takes what you know and love about buddy cop movies and makes it an entertaining and wild ride. Wright has the amazing ability to suck you into the worlds he crafts and make them familiar and different. You will recognize the movies that they reference almost immediately. And even if you don’t, Danny literally tells you his favorite parts and they play out in the film.

The soundtrack is awesome. I listen to it constantly. But don’t sleep on the score. They blend together in perfect harmony to create an insanely entertaining movie with a thumping drive that keeps the movie humming. If you have the ability to, pick up Mondo’s vinyl pressing of the score. It is epic.

And holy cow. The final action sequence is all sorts of awesome. From gun fights in the supermarket to Simon Pegg riding into town on horseback and some classic one-liners, Hot Fuzz keeps me grinning from ear to ear.

Hot Fuzz is an entertaining action/comedy, with some horror sprinkled in to make it the perfect sundae for movie fans.

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