Month: January 2023

Articles, Review

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 132, Ghostbusters (1984)

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!***

132. Ghostbusters (1984) Directed Ivan Reitman

The Movie: Professors Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Akroyd) and Egon Spenger (Harold Ramis) work for Columbia University. They focus on the paranormal. They receive a call from the New York Public Library that there is a ghost in the stacks.

The encounter with the ghost and their subsequent dismissal from the University, they form “Ghostbusters” to capture and eliminate ghosts.

Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver) is haunted by a demonic dog and it lived in her fridge. She calls the Ghostbusters for help. Venkman does not take her seriously and tries unsuccessfully to seduce her.

Next up for the ‘Busters is the get a call from the Sedgewick Hotel about a ghost causing damage to their hotel. Once there the boys meet Smiler, a gooey-green ghost who loves food and “sliming people.” The Ghostbusters chase him into the ballroom and they capture him there. Gaining fame after they do. After this encounter, the Ghostbusters get a new recruit Winston Zeddmore (Ernie Hudson).

This catches the attention of Walter Peck (William Atherton) of the EPA who doesn’t believe the Ghostbusters. He asks to see the equipment but is denied. Peter meets Dana and informs her that Zuul is a demigod worshipped by Gozer the Gozerian, the shapeshifting God of Destruction. Peter goes to Dana’s home to see that she is possessed claiming to be the Gatekeeper.

Dana returns home and is possessed by Zuul and her neighbor Louis (Rick Moranis) has been possessed by Vinz Clortho, the Keymaster. Egon believes that they should stay separated.

William Peck returns to Ghostbuster headquarters with law enforcement and places the Ghostbusters under arrest. He also shuts down the containment unit which unleashes all the ghosts that the Ghostbusters have collected. Louis escapes and meets Dana at her apartment. There they go to the roof, where it transforms into a gateway between dimensions. The Ghostbusters see the Mayor where Winston is able to plead with the Mayor for their release to save the city.

The Ghostbuster arrive at the roof to see Louis and Dana transformed into demon dogs. Gozer appears as a woman and attacks. She asks the Ghostbusters to choose the form of their destructor. Stantz remembers the beloved mascot of Stay Puft Marshmallows, and Gozer takes his form and attacks. The Ghostbusters do the unthinkable and cross-streams with their proton packs and cause the Stay Puft Man to explode.

 Why I Love Ghostbusters (1984): The very first horror/comedy I remember watching was Ghostbusters. Another favorite that I would rent all the time, but not from Blockbuster, but from our local Safeway, when yes even grocery stores had movies to rent.

The script is whip smart. You appreciate it as a child, and then revel in it as an adult where it is more dirty and more fun. The special effects are still impressive, so too is the chemistry with the cast. They all are at the top of their game.

One of my great joys is showing my son movies I love. You get nervous because you wonder if he will like it as much as you do. And when he does, you just throw your hands in the air and everything you thought about the movie is validated.

Articles, Top Lists

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 133, Top Secret! (1984)

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!***

133. Top Secret! (1984) Directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, Jerry Zucker

American heartthrob rocker Nick Rivers (Val Kilmer) whose number one hit “Skeet Surfin’” has garnered him fame and a chance to perform at a cultural festival that is taking place in East Germany. But what he doesn’t know is that the East German Goverment is using the festival as a front in an attempt to untie Germany into one nation again!

When Nick arrives in East Germany after painting a beautiful painting on a moving train, he goes to dinner and meets Hillary Flammond (Lucy Gutteridge) who helps Nick at dinner because she knows a little German. But what Nick soon learns is that Hillary is part of the local resistance and she is hiding out there from the authorities. After he knocks the East Germans out with a rip-roaring cover of “Tutti Frutti”

After Nick meets Hillary again at the ballet, he saves her from the police and turns himself in. After torturing Nick to no avail Nick escapes and meets Hillary’s father, Dr. Paul Flammond (Michael Gough) who tells him he is developing a weapon that can destroy the NATO submarine fleet, he only agrees to help the East Germans so they don’t kill his daughter. Nick is captured again and taken to be executed, the East Germans think that this will cause an international problem and let’s Nick perform in front of a raucous East German, mostly female crowd.

At the end of his performance he is rescued by Hillary and he serenades her with “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”

The following morning the meet the rest of the French Resistance, with names like Deja Vu (Have we meet before?) and Hillary’s ex-lover Nigel. Who we soon learn is a traitor! Nick beats up Nigel in an underwater bar fight, saves the world, and he and Hillary leave to go to America!

Why I Love Top Secret! (1984): I have mentioned earlier that I love movies that have stupid dialogue and actors that say them seriously and believably. Top Secret! is another film that I rented countless times at Blockbuster, laughing every time I watched it.

Val Kilmer is great as the rock icon Nick Rivers. The jokes come fast and furious but some are right in your face (see above “The Anal Intruder”).

I mean who can’t love gems like this;

“Listen to me, Hillary. I’m not the first guy who fell in love with a woman that he met at a restaurant who turned out to be the daughter of a kidnapped scientist, only to lose her to her childhood lover who she last saw on a deserted island, who then turned out to fifteen years later to be the leader of the French Underground.”

“I know it all sounds like some bad movie.”

I laughed, I singed…I laughed again. Top Secret! is a joke a minute movie I don’t want to ever end.

Articles, Top Lists

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 134, The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course (2002)

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!***

134. The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course (2002) Directed by John Stainton

The Movie: The United States has a satellite that has blown up! The pieces scatter into space and head towards Earth. They all burn up in the atmosphere, except for one, that finds its way into the Australian Outback and into the belly of a crocodile.

The United States sends in two CIA agents Vaughan Archer (Kenneth Ransom) and Robert Wheeler (Lachy Holme) to retrieve it. Meanwhile, the crocodile has been given a cattle farmer Brozzie Drewitt (Magda Szubanski) a hard time and she intends to kill it.

The Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin (Himself) and his wife Terri Irwin (Herself) are recruited by Sam Flynn (David Wenham) to relocate the crocodile before Brozzie can kill it.

Archer and Wheeler arrive in Australia and use a GPS tracking device to locate the piece of the satellite. Steve and Terri are able to capture the croc and plan on relocating it. They fly past the two agents in their boat, which they falsely believe that the Irwins have the satellite piece, not the croc. They contact the CIA and tell them they believe the Irwins plan on selling the piece of the satellite to make a multi-million dollar expansion to their zoo.

After the Irwins load the croc onto their truck, Archer and Wheeler follow them and chase them in their car. Steve believing that the agents are poachers, Steve climbs to the top of the truck and takes care of Wheeler by knocking him off the truck.

The croc is successfully relocated to a new river system, it is there that Steve discovers in its poop the satellite beacon, which he believes is nothing more than a toy the croc ate. Archer and Wheeler soon arrive and Steve still believing they are poachers leads them away from the spot the relocated the croc. Unbeknownst to Wheeler and Archer, the CIA sent another agent to Australia to help in retrieving of the beacon. Agent Jo Buckley joins the chase, in an ultralight, which she throws into Wheeler and Archer’s boat causing them to crash. Steve believes he is in a full blown “poacher war!” Steve uses a rope to lasso Buckley’s ultralight bringing her down and saving the crocs, woohoo!

Why I Love The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course: Twenty years ago, I would watch “The Crocodile Hunter” almost everyday on Animal Planet. I loved Steve Irwins passion for conservation, his knowledge of animals, and how he always seemed to save Terri. His personality was infectious and made his TV shows must watches for me.

When The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course was released I was there opening day and I had a great time. The idea of filming the parts with the Irwins as one of their documentaries was brilliant. The rest of the movie is silly but Steve’s enthusiasm and energy made for one heck of a good time. I loved the idea of making him oblivious to what was happening in the world around him, all he and Terri cared about was saving the crocs and other wildlife.

The music is fun, the film is light weight and it is a perfect family film. I miss Steve Irwin, but with his passion as a Wildlife Warrior, his message will never fade away.

Articles, Top Lists

Ryan’s Favorite 150 Films: Number 135, Evil Dead (2013)

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!***

135. Evil Dead (2013) Directed by Fede Alvarez

The Movie: At an isolated cabin in the woods, David (Shiloh Fernandez) and his friends Eric (Lou Taylor Pucci), Olivia (Jessica Lucas) and Natalie (Elizabeth Blackmore) bring his sister Mia (Jane Levy) there to help her kick her drug habit. David is not aware that Mia’s drug use has gotten out of control and she has even overdosed before. David also learns that Mia has made this pledge before, only to fall victim to her addiction time after time.

But something is amiss at the cabin. There appears to be a blood stain that goes straight into the fruit cellar. When the curious group of friends go into the cellar the discover a book, bound in plastic with barb wire wrapped around it.

Eric, decides to rip the barb wire off and read the book. Which tells him not to, but he doesn’t listen. He says words that should not be spoken, “Kunda, Astratta, Montosse, Canda.” By saying those words he unleashes unseen demons into this world.

Mia soon is tormented by an evil doppelgänger that only she can see. She begs David to take her home, David refuses. Mia steals his car and attempts to flee. When she sees the demon version of herself, she crashes the car. As she leaves the car, she is chased through the woods. Mia gets trapped by vines and one of them enters her and thus possessing her.

Mia is found and returns to the cabin. At the cabin David finds his dog beaten to death. Convinced that MIa did he barges in on her in the shower. David is horrified to see that Mia is scalding herself in the water with no reaction.

David then takes Mia from the cabin in the hopes of getting her to a hospital only to find the road is washed away. David and Mia return to the cabin.

That night Mia emerges from her bedroom, possessed, holding a shotgun. Mia screams, “You are all going to die!” Shoots David, and pukes bile all over Olivia. Eric overpowers Mia and throws her into the cellar, locking her in.

When Eric goes to check on Olivia later, he finds her sawing her face with a broken piece of mirror. Olivia turns her attention to Eric and stabs him repeatedly with a hypodermic needle. Eric kills Olivia with a toilet cover and screams. David goes to help Eric, leaving Natalie and Mia alone.

Mia is able to lure Natalie into the cellar, bites her hand and licks a box cutter, slicing her tongue in half. David returns and is able to rescue Natalie, but the damage is done.

Eric explains that according to the book, it needs five souls, when this happens “The Abomination” will be unleashed. Unbeknownst to Eric and David, Natalie’s arm is now possessed. Natalie grabs an electric carver, and cuts her arm off. But she is already possessed and attacks Eric and David with a nail gun. Natalie soon bleeds to death.

Learning that Mia must be purified by several means to escape the demons wrath, David decides that he will bury Mia alive and attempt to resurrect her after she dies. David heads into the cellar to get Mia only to be attacked by her. Eric intervenes and gets stabbed in the neck for his trouble.

David is able to sedate Mia and bury her. After she is dead, he digs her up and resuscitates her. David returns to the cabin to get the car keys and is stabbed by Eric’s reanimated corpse. Mia is locked out of the cabin, which David then shoots a gasoline can, killing himself and Eric (again) in the process.

Mia does not have time to catch her breath as blood starts to rain down from the sky, The Abomination rises from the Earth, in the form of Mia. The Abomination attacks Mia, but Mia gets off both its legs with a chainsaw. The Abomination then pushes over a Jeep onto Mia’s arm, pinning it. Mia summons all her strength with The Abomination closing in on her and rips her arm off, sticks it in the chainsaw and cuts The Abomination in half.

Why I Love Evil Dead (2013): My favorite horror series is The Evil Dead. Remakes, or in this case a reimagining of the first film was going to be a tough sell, but Sam Raimi, Bruce Campbell and Rob Tappert, the brains behind the original trilogy were onboard so I knew it was in good hands.

Evil Dead is scary, intense and once it really gets going it can be overwhelming for the non-horror crowd. The film never lets up, never giving you a chance to catch your breath. You are stuck there, just like Mia and her friends, forced to watch in horror as they are assaulted, mutilated and killed.

But that also is what makes the movie so much fun. I was lucky enough to enjoy an early screening of this film at the University of Colorado with my friends and fellow horror lovers, Matt and Tommy. Tommy is no longer with us, and I always think of him when I watch this film, he had a heart of gold and I miss him dearly.

Hats off to Jane Levy who plays Mia. She brings vulnerability, intensity and total bad-assery to the role of Mia. She is the center point of the film and I can’t even imagine how difficult this film was to make for her.

If you are in the mood for the most intense (and fun) 92 minutes you will ever experience watching a movie, pop in Evil Dead, it’s groovy.

Announcement, Top Lists

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 136, Roman Holiday (1953)

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!***

136. Roman Holiday (1953) Directed by William Wyler

The Movie: Princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) is on a tour of European cities. She grows tired of the duties that she must attend to as a princess and longs to just have fun.

Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck) is an American journalist who is reporting for “American News Services” in Rome. Fate intervenes when Princess Ann escapes from her embassy while on the influence of a drug given to her by her doctor and Joe finds Princess Ann, a little worse for wear. Not realizing that she is Princess Ann.

Thinking that she is just drunk, Joe arranges for her to get a cab and take her to wherever she wants to go. The cabbie does not want the responsibility of taking care of so she stays the night in Joe’s apartment.

The next morning Joe learns from his editor Mr. Hennessy (Hartley Power) that the Princess had a sudden illness and when Hennessy shows Joe a picture of Ann, he realizes that the woman in his apartment is the Princess. Joe tells his editor that he will get an exclusive interview with the Princess. He offers Joe $5,000 for the story but bets him only $500 he won’t be able to get the interview.

When Joe gets back to his apartment, he offers to take “Anya” around town, on a Vespa. She declines and goes exploring on her own. Joe follows her and “happens” to run into Ann. Joe is able to convince Ann to spend the day with him this and they go to several places including the Colosseum.

Later in the night they go a party, where she is spotted and taken away by government officials to bring her back to the embassy. Joe and his friends are able to wrestle her away from the officials and they run away. Joe is knocked into the water and Ann jumps right in after him. As they get out of the water, they kiss on the riverbank and head back to Joe’s apartment. While drying her clothes, Ann tells Joe that she must go back to the embassy and fulfill her Royal Duties.

Joe drops Ann off around the corner of the embassy and they kiss one last time. Joe informs his cameraman Irving (Eddie Albert) that he will not write the story about the day he spent with the Princess, but that Irving is free to sell the photos.

The next day, when Ann meets the press and as she greets them all, Irving gives her all the photos he took of her. Ann and Joe have small talk and she leaves. Joe leaves too, alone.

Why I Love Roman Holiday: Maybe the most adorable romantic comedy of all time. Everything in Roman Holiday works. The amazing location adds to great cinematography and an exotic feel to the film. The chemistry between Peck and Hepburn is also second to none. Peck is always a charmer and Hepburn is so easy to love.

Nominated for 10 Academy Awards, which Hepburn won it is an easy film to love. Hepburn is great being funny and proper. The heartbreaking ending just adds to how great the film is. A lot of times Hollywood will look for a way to have the romantic interests end up together, here they are kept apart, and the way the film unfolds, it breaks your heart.

Interesting note on the film. The picture won best story at the Academy Awards, however due to the writer of the film, Dalton Trumbo being black listed in Hollywood, Ian McLellan Hunter fronted for him and took the writing credit for the film. Trumbo would not receive the recognition he deserved until 1993.

Roman Holiday is a beautiful film, shot in a beautiful location that is the best that Hollywood has to offer.

Articles, Review

Rod Stewart: Year by Year, Track by Track Part 6 1978-1981

Part 6: In Which Our Hero Sells His Rock ‘N’ Roll Soul to the Disco Devil and Laughs All the Way to Hell and a Number One Smash Hit

Rod Stewart continued his chart topping success during his Mercury days to his new home at Warner Brothers Records. His first three albums he released after his move to the United States sold nearly 6 million copies in the States alone. Stewart had left the folk/rock albums behind for a more polished sound and stadium ready anthems to great acclaim. Atlantic Crossing and A Night on the Town were well received by critics and fans. Critics seemed to not care too much for Footloose and Fancy Free but the fans loved it. That album sold 3 million copies in the USA and Rod was about to make his most successful album and single ever, to the dismay of critics and some of his earliest fans.

But first, Scotland qualified for the 1978 World Cup and Rod Stewart celebrated with a single release honoring the Scottish National Team, who also appeared on the single as back up singers.

The Official Single From Rod Stewart and Scottish World Cup Squad ‘78

199. Ole Ola (Mulher Brasileria) (Evaldo Gouveia, Rod Stewart, Phil Chen)

A celebration and a good time is the best way to describe this song. Stewart’s joyful lyrics and reading get you into the mood for some South American football.

And although this is sort of a novelty song, that has never been released on anything but a vinyl single,(I have it on my iPod, but I got it digitally totally legitimately…) it has great energy and is a fun listen.

Grade: B

200. I’d Walk a Million Miles for One of Your Goals (Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be Will Be) (Livingston, Evans)

This song is just pure fun. From the TV broadcast proclaiming that for “the second successive time Scotland has qualified for the World Cup!”

Stewart reworks the song to focus on Scotland with a catchy lyric and a happy breakdown of “so long, my Scotland, the teams play east, the teams play west, but we know which teams the best, my Scotland”

Maybe Scotland should have focused on the World Cup and not singing and having a good old time with Stewart as they did not make it out of the first round…but the song lives forever!

Grade: B

After a slight detour to celebrate Scotland, Stewart returned to the studio. According to Rod he was listening to Native New Yorker by Odyssey, which “the bass guitar is the driving force and almost the main provider of the melody.” It was when Rod heard The Rolling Stones’ Miss You, that Stewart had the idea to record a disco/rock song.

Blondes Have More Fun November 24, 1978

201. Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? (Rod Stewart, Carmine Appice)

The song that launched a thousand dance moves and a thousand arrows. Has there ever been a song that is more loved/hated in the world?

When Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? was released it was a smash hit. In fact, it was the fastest selling single in Warner Bros. Music history, until Madonna’s Like A Virgin.

But while most of the world loved Rod’s rock/disco song, music critics and some of his fans were disgusted. Some thought the Rod had gone mad, and not only did he release a disco song, he made it seem that he was “hotter” than you.

Ignore all of the fluff and listen to the song. It’s catchy, fun and funky. Phil Chen delivers the goods with a slick bass line and co-writer Carmine Appice keeps the song thumping along.

And one last point that Stewart has been making since 1978, the song is in third person, “She sits alone, waiting for suggestions, he’s so nervous avoiding all her questions.” The chorus is a crescendo of two people getting it on with the thoughts in their heads being, “if you want my body and you think I’m sexy, come on sugar let me know.”

And before we leave this song, it’s “Da” not “Do”. It drives me crazy when the song is not written correctly, and I am off my soapbox.

Grade: A

There are many remixes of this song, one that Warner Bros released in 2004 has a different vocal take, with Rod emphasizing different words. There’s also a “disco mix” version that is about 3 minutes longer that appears on a 12” vinyl single.

And one last note, if you want to hear the ultimate version of this song, without the studio enhancements and embellishments, just Rod and his world class rock band, download the 1981, rehearsal version on the extended version found on iTunes. It is the best version of the song, I promise.

201. Dirty Weekend (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

When people tell you that Blondes Have More Fun is Rod Stewart’s “disco album” they have not listened to this album.

The second track on the album is a straight down and dirty rock song. And I do mean dirty.

Dirty Weekend is the story in which our Hero takes his “best friend’s girl” away to Mexico for a raunchy and sexy weekend. It’s crude with some harsh lyrics about the female anatomy and drugs.

It is a rock song and a quick one, that is fun if you can get past the non-P.C. moments.

Grade: C+

202. Ain’t Love a Bitch (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

A forgotten top 25 hit by Stewart, Ain’t Love a Bitch is a mid-tempo classic. Stewart actually had the idea for this song as far back as 1976. The original version of Fool For You in which Stewart opened the unused version with “Ain’t love a bitch…”

Here he warns the listener no matter how tough life gets, love is still a bitch and it is always there. The bouncy music, peppered with background vocals of “doo-doo” sells a sweet song when in truth, the song is full of bitterness and resentment. Which makes the music and lyrics that much better.

Grade: A

203. The Best Days of My Life (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan)

Jim Cregan’s sensitive guitar work is on full display here. Another example of a song that proves that Rod hadn’t totally abandoned his earlier successes.

Although The Best Days of My Life, is more polished than Rod’s earlier recordings, Stewart shows that he still can reach down to his formative days to write a sensitive song about a woman he loves.

Grade: B

204. Is That the Thanks I Get? (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan)

After the longing and lovely The Best Days of My Life, Stewart washes himself of that really quickly. He becomes vindictive to a woman who “kicked the shit right in my face!”

Not one to keep himself down for long, Rod picks himself up and “guess I find me a brand new girl, that won’t take me very long.”

I like this song a little more than The Best Days of My Life, it’s more driving and feels more personal.

Grade: A-

205. Attractive Female Wanted (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

While it might seem hard to believe, but it seems that our Hero can’t find a woman to love. “It’s Friday night and I’m alone, still a bachelor.”

Here he pleads that he isn’t Warren Beatty or Muhammad Ali, but he will share all that he has.

Attractive Female Wanted has the feel of Ain’t Love a Bitch with background singers doo-wop along to give the song a bouncy, driving force. Rod’s humor is also on full display, “I’ve been lonely too long and all my family think I’m gay.”

Grade: B

206. Blondes (Have More Fun) (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan)

I love this song. The hand claps, the bass, the guitar, the drums emphasizing and driving the whole rock ‘n’ roll song.

Rod is having a lot of fun as he wears his preference of woman on his sleeve. Also on full display is Stewart’s trademark humor, “you can keep your black and redheads, you can keep your brunettes too, I want a girl that’s semi-intelligent, give me a blonde that’s six feet two.”

The song never slows down, in fact with the horns that pepper the middle of the song make it feel that much more fast.

Grade: A

207. Last Summer (Rod Stewart, Philip Chen)

Ah, vacation. The lazy sound of music opens a song where our Hero strikes out with women at every turn. Nothing works for him, impersonations, libations, nothing works. In fact, when Stewart returns to the women he’s trying to woo, “suddenly she disappeared, like I feared with another guy, love always seems to let me down, maybe I’ll wait until next year.”

Last Summer almost doesn’t fit on the album. It sounds different than all the other songs, but that also makes it unique and stand out. It’s breezy and fun.

Grade: B+

208. Standin’ in the Shadows of Love (Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland, Brian Holland)

If there was ever a true disco song on Blondes Have More Fun it might be this driving cover which was made famous by the Four Tops. Gone is all the subtlety of that song.

Rod does pour his heart out in the song, but he makes one misstep in this otherwise solid cover. In the breakdown, he whispers words that are on point, with the exception of “didn’t I screw you right.” It takes you out of the song and it takes a beat to recover.

Grade: C+

209. Scarred and Scared (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

The same writing team that wrote Dirty Weekend also wrote this heartbreaking song of a man on death row for murder.

Tonally, Scarred and Scared does not fit on this album, but it also might be why the song is so haunting. Stewart tells a story that breaks your heart, you actually feel sympathy for a murderer, and if you want evidence that Stewart is one of the best singers around, listen to him and the emotion he sings with on “I don’t need no trial humiliation, just tell me that I’m heaven bound, I don’t want no two faced consolation, what use is that to me six feet underground?”

Chills.

Grade: A+

210. Scarred and Scared (Early Take) (Rod Stewart, Gary Grainger)

Musically this early take of Scarred and Scared is the same. The lyrics however are quite different. They lose some of the subtlety of the finished version. Stewart still sings with a broken heart.

Stewart would polish the lyrics, and tighten the whole song up, but this version still has merit and begs to be heard.

Grade: B

Although Rhino promised a deluxe version of Blondes Have More Fun, we never got it. A couple of songs have trickled out since that promise in 2009 however.

211. Live Medley: (I Know) I’m Losing You, It’s All Over Now, Standin’ in the Shadows of Love, Layla (Norman Whitfield, Edward Holland Jr., Cornelius Grant, Bobby Womack, Shirley Womack, Lamont Dozier, Eddie Holland, Brian Holland, Eric Clapton, Jim Gordon)

Released in 2014 was a collection of 58 live Rod Stewart tracks that had never been released before. One such song contains a cover of a song Rod had not released before. In a 10-minute tour de force, Stewart rips through four songs.

Full of energy and top vocal form, this would have been a treat to see. The song that Rod had not released before was a cover of the Eric Clapton classic, Layla. Here we only get the chorus and it makes you long for a full version of the song with Stewart at the controls.

The shear amount of energy and rock show goodness makes this an absolute barn burner.

Grade: A+

Released in 2021, Rod Stewart 1975-1978 contained 2 songs that were recorded for Blondes Have More Fun, but were left behind.

212. Silver Tongue (Rod Stewart)

A sweet talkin’ “Baptist child from way down South”, is the object of Our Hero’s affection in a funky driving song.

Rod not being able to get a woman he lusts after is a fun, breezy song that is almost finished. The band is tight and Stewart delivers the goods.

He also delivers a really funny line, “Silver Tongue I didn’t get a start, Silver Tongue where do I fart?” Not sure if its finished lyrics but my 8 year old son thinks it’s really funny.

Grade: B

213. Don’t Hang Up (Rod Stewart)

In keeping with a more disco flavor of Blondes Have More Fun. Is more polished than Silver Tongue, but is not quite done as well as Rod mumbles some lyrics as he is trying to find the right words for the song.

The song deals with pleading with your lover not to hang up when he calls late at night and also not give up on their love, “as I would walk a million miles at night, just to be by your side.

Grade: B

Stewart scored a number one album and number one hit with Blondes Have More Fun and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? Not only that but the album went platinum over 3 times. Rod was riding high and a greatest hits package was on the way. Lost was a song that didn’t see the light of day until 30 years later.

Greatest Hits, Vol.1 October 12, 1979

214. When I’m Away From You (Frankie Miller)

A common practice when a greatest hits package is released is to maybe have a “new” song ready to go to make fans like me buy the album of songs I already own for that one song I don’t.

Stewart recorded Frankie Miller’s When I’m Away From You for his Greatest Hits Vol. 1. For some unknown reason it never made it to the album. Another song that Rod recorded and abandoned. It is a shame too.

Rod crushes this song, and it begs to be heard. Miller’s version is incredible. Rod equals it and when I hear this song and Kiss Her For Me, I want a Stewart album of Frankie Miller covers, it would be most excellent.

Grade: A+

The 70’s ended and Rod Stewart was on the top of his game for the whole decade. He started with 1971’s Every Picture Tells a Story a number one album. He ends the decade with Blondes Have More Fun and Greatest Hits Vol. 1 both of which sold over 3 million copies in the USA alone. As Stewart entered the 80’s he was about to change styles again.

Perhaps a response to Blondes Have More Fun, Stewart entered the studio to record his 10th studio album and make it a double album. Not only that but he would write almost all the songs. In fact Foolish Behaviour would be the only Rod Stewart album that Rod wrote or co-wrote every song on it. Rod eventually ditched the idea of a double album and released a straight forward rock ‘n’ roll album.

Foolish Behaviour November 21, 1980

215. Better Off Dead (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Carmine Appice)

When life gets you down you need to go out and party, so is the story that Stewart is telling in the opening track of Foolish Behaviour.

“Wanna be silly and scream and shout, gotta get legless and fall about.” A fun little ditty that sets the mood for a different type of album by Stewart. Foolish Behaviour seems to focus a bit more on rock ‘n’ roll.

Grade: B

216. Passion (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

A wicked opening paves way to some haunting lyrics. Our Hero’s biggest hit on the album has a really ominous tone and feel to it. Stewart takes you on the streets on L.A. to reveal the seedy underbelly of the city.

I have a love/hate relationship with this song. I love the opening and the opening verse. The music and feel of the song is awesome. It also at the same time feels a little empty. Stewart gets you in a groove but it slowly devolves into him shouting out random things “In the bars and the cafes, Passion! In the streets and the alleys, Passion!”

The bass and the guitar are awesome and musically the song is badass. The breakdown is epic too.

Grade: A-

There is an extended version of “Passion” that clocks in at over 7 minutes. It is the same song except the longer play gives it more things for Rod to say have passion.

There’s also an early version of “Passion” available digitally. The lyrics are completely different, also Rod is just trying to get words to fit with the music, so it’s a lot of nonsense. It does have some value as it shows Stewart’s writing process.

217. Foolish Beahaviour (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

Living up to the title track, Foolish Beahaviour takes a dark turn. The opening of the song sets the mood right off the bat, “Can I introduce myself? Am a man of panache and wealth, sound in mind, body and health, Why I wanna kill my wife? I have this urge to take her life.”

I am not sure if Rod’s wife Alana Hamilton appreciated the song, but I actually love it. Rod does not go dark very often and this song certainly is dark, the second verse he fantasies about the different ways he could kill his wife.

Don’t worry though, as “telephone rang and he woke from his sleep, his wife snoring soundly next to him, it was all a very nasty dream.”

Grade: A-

218. So Soon We Change (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

Our hero trades in his dream of killing his wife, to maybe explaining to her why they are breaking up. The roughness of Foolish Behaviour makes way for the melancholy of So Soon We Change.

Our Hero explains to his lady, “We were different people then, inseparable never apart, But now the novelty is wearing thin, we spend most time arguing.”

Stewart was only married to Alana for about a year when this album came out and the theme of the album is someone who is unhappy and depressed. Stewart express it in song, much like he did on Footlosse and Fancy Free when his relationship with Britt Ekland was for the most part over, Rod would stick with Alana for another 4 years but it appears the cracks were starting to show.

Grade: B

219. Oh God, I Wish I Was Home Tonight (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

Every Rod Stewart album has a song on it that is a classic and amazing. They might not be a hit but they are on the album and true fans know them and love them. Oh God, I Wish I Was Home Tonight is such a song. Great music, trademark Stewart witty lyrics make it a winning combination of a song.

Stewart is at his best when he wears his heart on his sleeve, here he pleads with his lady, “I could be home in time for Christmas if you want me to be, There’s a plane that leaves here at midnight, arriving at three, but I’m a bit financially embarrassed, I must admit, tell you the truth honey, I haven’t a cent.”

A magnificent song that begs to be listened to.

Grade: A+

220. Gi’ Me Wings (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

It seems that Our Hero was going through some tough times during the sessions of Foolish Behaviour as this was another song where he is singing about being depressed.

The lyrics are somewhat at conflict with the hard rock and driving force of the music. Phil Chen’s bass yet again delivers the goods.

Although only released as single in Japan, Gi’ Me Wings did gain some traction and airplay in the states where it reached 45 on Billboards Top Rock Tracks. A forgotten gem on this album, all Rod fans have songs we wish he would sing again live, this is one for me. I love the sound and Stewart is in top vocal form on the track.

Grade: A-

There is a studio rough version of “Gi’Me Wings” available digitally, with totally different lyrics, with Rod again trying to figure out the words for the song. A song for just the most hardcore of fans as it is not close to being finished.

221. My Girl (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger, Carmine Appice)

When anyone reads the back of the album for Foolish Behaviour, I am sure that they think that this is a cover of The Temptations all time classic (which Rod would cover, but that will covered later). Here it is a sweet ballad that has Our Hero giving up his wild ways for a woman he loves.

It isn’t the deepest song that Stewart has written but he sings it so well. The saccharine lyrics are washed away by an effective reading and singing that Rod’s voice just aches.

My favorite set of lyrics and the emotion that Rod brings is, “At last my heart has found a home, This time I know where I belong.”

Grade: B

222. She Won’t Dance With Me (Rod Stewart, Jorge Ben)

Ah yes, I am a sucker for Stewart’s down and dirty rock ‘n’ roll songs. She Won’t Dance With Me is one of my favorites. It is a quick and fun song. It reminds me of when I went out with my friends when we were young. Of course we would never leave the wall and just talk about how pretty the girls, I would never ask them to dance with me. I have no idea how I am married…

Anyways, here Our Hero is his rascal self while being funny and clever;

“Keep on watchin’ her across the room, waitin’ for the band to play a faster tune, I want her number but I’m scared to ask, I want dance and I want her ass, why the fuck is she ignoring me? I don’t know what’s wrong with me”

Fun piece of Rod Stewart trivia. She Won’t Dance With Me was the third video ever played and MTV. And they did not edit out the word “fuck”. Whoops.

Grade: A+

223. Somebody Special (Rod Stewart, Steve Hurley, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

“How can you say life’s gettin’ you down? Get yourself out go along with the crowd” Rod slows it down yet again, here he offers advice to the listener that the only way you will find Somebody Special is by getting out of your funk and find someone to love.

Along the lines of My Girl, but I think the lyrics are more catchy and fun.

Grade: B

224. Say It Ain’t True (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger)

Foolish Behaviour ends with a sweeping, overproduced, brilliantly sung ballad. Say It Ain’t True is a double-edged sword for this Stewart fan. Rod sings the song so well, it just doesn’t resonate with me. Because of the sound of the song it sounds disingenuous, I don’t know…it might just be me.

Grade: C

225. I Just Wanna Make Love To You (Live) (Willie Dixon)

An old blues number is a hidden track on the German cassette release of Foolish Behaviour. Rod’s cover is brilliant, as he covers one of his earliest influences Willie Dixon. A song that is right up Stewart’s alley with double entendre lyrics and a playful harmonica. You should seek out the Etta James version, it’s straight fire.

Grade: B+

Foolish Behaviour did not reach the heights of Blondes Have More Fun, but it still reached platinum status in both the U.K. and the USA. Stewart was still at the top of his game and delivering albums that resonated with audiences.

Foolish Behaviour was intended to be a double album, meaning there were most likely a lot of songs left on the cutting room floor. In 2009, on The Rod Stewart Sessions we finally heard some of them.

226. Time of My Life (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger, Carmine Appice)

A failed relationship is the subject of this haunting, beautiful song. “Listen it’s over, I could never forgive you.” As Rod pleads with his lover that she broke his heart and it is too late.

I adore this song. It has so much heartache and pain in it’s five short minutes. A song that I am not sure why was abandoned, but we were treated it to much later. Also features some killer guitar work by Billy Peek.

Grade: A

227. TV Mama (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger, Carmine Appice)

The original version of Foolish Behaviour has Stewart lusting after a woman on TV. After spending years listening to the music and the images of “trying to kill my wife” it is a complete 180 change.

It is not as clever as the finished song that appeared on the album, but it still is a lot of fun because she can “change gray skies into blue.”

Grade: B

228. Maybe Baby (Norman Petty, Buddy Holly)

When The Rod Stewart Sessions were announced and I saw the track listing, one song I wanted to hear the most was Rod’s take on a Buddy Holly classic. I am a huge Buddy Holly fan. I listen to his music almost as much as Rod and think he is an absolute genius.

Rod does not disappoint. His band is in top form. He changes the pacing of the song and emphasizes different words. He makes it his own without losing what made the original so great. Stewart also is at the top of his vocal game. I adore this song, I selfishly want him to record more Buddy Holly. The way he finishes the song “Maybe Baby, you’ll love someday” is so brilliant it gives me chills.

Grade: A+

229. Stupid (Rod Stewart, Phil Chen, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan, Gary Grainger, Carmine Appice)

Speaking of loving songs. Stupid is played with a reckless abandon, not only by the band but also Stewart who is just letting the song go, rough and ready.

Stupid is not finished but it sure as hell is a barn burner. There is a boogie down, guitar solos that pepper a song full of energy. The only downside The Rod Stewart Sessions exposed is there are so many good Rod Stewart songs that it has me thinking of what might have been…

Grade: A-

230. Oh, Carol (Live with Billy Peek on lead vocals) (Nicholas Barry Chinn, Michael Chapman)

Performed at Wembley, I acquired this on disc at a second hand store, a bootleg that made it to Denver, Colorado. I knew it existed and wasn’t sure if I would ever be able to find it. But I did and whomever turned it in to Twist and Shout thank you.

This cover is 100% different then the one that was released by Smokie. Their 1978 version is a bouncy, pop infused that has no bite. Here, Billy Peek does what he does best and turns it into a blistering rock ‘n’ roll song with Rod providing background vocals.

It gives the song a whole new meaning. It is so much better.

Grade: A

Stewart had entered the new decade with yet another top 20 album and platinum sales. Stewart had just released Foolish Behaviour when he headed back into the studio in November of 1980. Stewart would start recording one of his best albums, Tonight I’m Yours.

Tonight I’m Yours November 6, 1981

231. Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me) (Rod Stewart, Kevin Savigar, Jim Cregan)

Originally written as a ballad, Rod Stewart reminisced in Storyteller, “We spent two days working on this one, getting nowhere, when someone said, out of sheer frustration (as opposed to creative genius), “Speed the bastard up.” We did.”

A winning song about sleeping with a woman that plays at breakneck pace makes for an awesome top 20 hit. The video is loads of fun too, with Stewart performing at a hotel pool with a bunch of women fawning over him. Stewart once again proves that he is a great lyricist, “I don’t want an everlasting thing, I don’t care if I see you again, so grab your coat and honey tell your friends, you won’t be home, you won’t be home, you won’t be home!”

Grade: A+

232. How Long (Paul Carrack)

Stewart tackles Paul Carrack’s 1975 hit, How Long. With a winning result. Carrack’s version would be a fixture on soft rock, Stewart changes the pace and gives it more edge, making it a rock ‘n’ roll song.

Stewart again blows Carrack away with a more emotional reading and phrasing giving the song bigger impact.

I love the cheap video they made for this as well. It looks like Stewart and the band were on tour and they needed another video for the hit record so it’s just Rod walking down the aisle of a theater with the band in tuxes playing along. My favorite thing, is Stewart is having trouble remembering the lyrics and looks down and away from the camera a lot. He did this on “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” As well.

Grade: A

233. Tora, Tora, Tora (Out With The Boys) (Rod Stewart)

Party time! Our Hero is going out with his boys and having a good old time and getting into a bunch of trouble. A rock ‘n’ roll song from beginning to end, the pace never lets up.

Rod sings “Jimmy got smashed took his trousers off, bar man says you boys have had enough, “why don’t you join the army, get yourself a decent job?” Indecent exposure in a parking lot!”

A fun doesn’t stop as at the end of the song women plead, “Tora, Tora, Tora, where’s my old man?”

Grade: A

234. Tear It Up (Dorsey Burnette, Johnny Burnette, David Burlinson)

A piano starts and the band is not impressed, a lad states, “no, that’s no good.” Before Rod and the band rip into a blistering cover of Johnny Burnette’s 1950’s hit Tear It Up.

Stewart and the band don’t mess with the structure of the song very much allowing the original greatness to shine through.

Grade: A

235. Only a Boy (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Kevin Savigar)

Rod goes back to his youth for a whimsical tale that we relive with vivid pictures of being a kid growing up and being at school.

Stewart is so great painting a vivid picture of growing up and taking you back to not only his days, but you relate to him as well.

While not as poignant as I Was Only Joking, Only a Boy is a fun, energetic song.

Grade: B+

236. Just Like a Woman (Bob Dylan)

Blonde On Blonde is perhaps Bob Dylan’s most famous and best album, with Just Like a Woman being the most popular song on the album. It takes balls to sing this song, and Stewart has not only the balls to sing the song, but to also make it one of his best Dylan covers.

It is one of Rod’s best vocal performances on an album, hands down. Once again, Stewart outclasses Dylan on his on song vocally. Stewart’s version is also tighter and louder. Dylan’s is a rambling, beautiful song that is a signature tune for good reason.

If you want proof of Rod’s brilliance, I beg you to listen to the last verse, “Ahh, just don’ fit, I believin’ it’s time for us to quit, when we meet again, and introduced as friends, please don’t let on that you knew me when…”

Grade: A+

237. Jealous (Rod Stewart, Carmine Appice, Jay Davis, Danny Johnson)

Not completely leaving disco/dance music behind, Stewart comes out hot with a tale of jealousy. Seeing his woman out with other men sends Our Hero into an angry rage, with him pleading that she isn’t acting like they used to.

Stewart, again is in top vocal form. The song is driving and unrelenting with he band delivering the goods. Emotion is up front through the lyrics and the music.

Grade: B

238. Sonny (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Kevin Savigar, Bernie Taupin)

Elton John’s writing partner, Bernie Taupin lends his songwriting skill on a total 180 from Jealous.

Rod pleads with “Sonny” that he’s given up the “purest love a man could ever have.” As he tells her that his new love can’t hold a candle to her, with awesome lyrics as “she can borrow all of your style, but never posses your soul.”

Grade: B+

239. Young Turks (Rod Stewart, Carmine Appice, Duane Hitchings, Kevin Savigar)

Easily one of the best written songs in Stewart catalogue, Young Turks tells the complete story of Patty and Billy, two kids that are in love, but they run away together after no one understands why they love each other.

Another prime example of Stewart being one of the best songwriters and lyricists around, “because life is so brief, and time is a thief when your undecided, and like a fistful of sand that can slip right through your hands!”

The hook on Young Turks is how you play a memorable song that sticks in your head, couple that with a catchy chorus of “young hearts be free tonight, time is on your side, don’t let them put you down, don’t let them push you around, don’t ever let them change your, point of view.”

I love this song love. Hearing thousands of people sing/scream “Young hearts be free tonight!” Is one of the best moments in any Rod Stewart concert.

Grade: A+

240. Never Give Up on a Dream (Rod Stewart, Jim Cregan, Bernie Taupin)

“If there’s doubt, and you’re cold, don’t you worry, what the future holds, we gotta have heroes to teach us all, to never give up on a dream. Calm the road, touch the sun, no force on earth could stop you run, when your heart bursts like the sun, never, never give up on a dream.”

Sometimes you don’t have to say anything, the song says all that needs to be said. A beautiful tribute to Canadian athlete Terry Fox, who ran 3,339 miles on a prosthetic leg to raise money for cancer research. A powerful song sung with heart and grace, a must listen.

Grade: A+

According to producer Andy Zax, when digging through Stewart’s unreleased material, only one two-track mixdown tape from the Tonight I’m Yours sessions was found, it did contain one hell of a song however.

241. Thunderbird (Rod Stewart)

It is known that Rod Stewart loves cars. He was conned out of carpets for his car early in his career on the Python Lee track, In a Broken Dream. Hear he sings about his love of his “white-walled” Thunderbird.

Hand-clapping blast of a song, Rod Stewart said it best when he says off the cuff, “it’s a fucking idea.”

Grade: A

242. Dirty Silly Filthy Boys (Rod Stewart, Carmine Appice, Duane Hitchings, Kevin Savigar)

One thing I learned about Rod Stewart as his unreleased songs were being released is he tried a lot of different lyrics to the songs. Some of the songs are not too different from the finished product, others like Dirty Silly Filthy Boys is 100% different than the song it would become, which is Young Turks.

The connecting tissue is the keyboard signature sound in both songs. Here, Our Hero sings about giving a man “what he wants, and he wants it all the time.” After he spends the nights with his friends, basically telling lady friends that no matter what, they must give into their men. Talk about a totally different song.

Anyhoo, it’s fun, light and interesting to think of what might have been.

Grade: B-

Stewart started the decade the same way he ended the 70’s. On top. Tonight I’m Yours spawned hit singles, rose to number 11 on the Billboard Charts and sold over 1,000,000 copies in the USA alone. But Stewart was about to be tested with the next albums he released, as Stewart again did not settle in on one sound, he continued to evolve what it meant to be a Rod Stewart album.

Stay tuned for Part 7: In Which Our Hero is Part of the Sex Police, a Cruel But Fair and Thankless Task.

Articles, Review

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 137, The Phantom of the Opera (1925)

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!***

137. The Phantom of the Opera (1925) (Directed by Rupert Julian)

The Movie: It’s a new season at the Paris Opera House, and the cast is preparing for their production of Faust. The sudden rise of Christine Daae (Mary Philbin) from chorus to the understudy of the talented and difficult Carlotta (Virginia Pearson) has everyone talking. In attendance is Vicomte Raoul de Chagny (Norman Kerry), Christine’s beau. During a break in the performance, Raoul meets with Christine, wanting to marry her and have her resign from the Opera. Christine refuses, she won’t let anything get in the way of her career, especially a man.

The Opera is enjoying their most profitable season ever, but the management for the theater resign, not before they warn the new owners of the “Opera Ghost”, the phantom of Box Number 5! The new management laugh it off as just a silly story.

Carlotta receives a letter from “The Phantom”. He demands that she step aside and let Christine be the lead in the opera, threatening her if she does not meet his demands. Christine can hear in her dressing room a mysterious voice that tells her that on Wednesday she must take Carlotta’s place.

Raoul meets Christine the next morning and begs her to reconsider his offer of marriage. Christine again refuses, stating that it is impossible for her to stop as she has been tutored by the “Spirit of Music”.

That night Christine is Marguerite in Faust and both the managers and Carlotta receive another warning from The Phantom, Christine must be Marguerite again, or there will be dire consequences!

Carlotta defiantly takes the stage the next night. The Phantom true to his word, has a giant chandelier fall from the ceiling, crushing and killing audience members!

Later that evening, Christine finds a secret door that leads to the depths of the opera. There she meets The Phantom, who introduces himself as Erik. Christine faints in shock, and Erik carries her to an unground suite.

When Christine awakes, she finds a note telling her she is free to go as she pleases but must never look behind his mask.

The Phantom is preoccupied with playing the organ and does not notice Christine sneaking up behind him. She pulls of his mask revealing a hideously disfigured face underneath it! Enraged The Phantom tells Christine she is now a prisoner. Christine begs The Phantom to let her sing again, he relents. She may return one more time, but she must not see Raoul.

At the masked ball, Christine finds Raoul. The Phantom is also there, disguised as “Red Death”. Raoul and Christine go to the roof, believing they are safe from The Phantom, but he listens from atop a statue. Raoul tells Christine that after her performance the following night, he will take her to London.

During her performance, Christine is kidnapped by The Phantom. Raoul meets Inspector Ledoux (Arthur Edmund Carewe) who informs Raoul that he has been chasing The Phantom since he escaped Devil’s Island. They find The Phantom’s secret door and attempt to find and rescue Christine. They fall into a trap set by The Phantom. Raoul’s brother Philippe makes his way to the crypt of The Phantom as well, where he is promptly drowned by The Phantom.

The Phantom tortures Raoul and Ledoux by intense heat, they escape but are locked into a chamber with gunpowder and causes the room to flood. Christine begs The Phantom to let them go and promises him she will marry him if he spares the lives of Raoul and Ledoux. The Phantom opens another trap door which Raoul and Ledoux go through and live.

A mob soon enters The Phantom’s liar and The Phantom attempts to flee with Christine. He never makes it as the mob beats him to death and throws his corpse into a river.

Why I Love The Phantom of the Opera (1925): Although a silent film, The Phantom of the Opera is suspenseful, scary and beautiful to see. Easily one of the most iconic scenes in movie history is the unmasking of The Phantom. The film is nearly 100 years old and it still packs quite the fright.

The makeup was created by Lon Chaney and it is legendary, with the actor giving an all time performance. And a sense of Colorado pride he was born in my home state. Also of note is the incredible sets that are throughout the picture. From the grandeur of the Paris Opera House to the depths of The Phantoms catacombs, each location is a character unto itself.

The film is a master class in suspense and horror. The Phantom just wants to love Christine, but his obsession with her is terrifying. And the lengths he will go to make Christine his is unrelentingly. Chaney is so good as The Phantom he will elicit fear, sorrow and terror many times in the same scene.

The film also boasts some color that stands out in a silent film, maybe no more so then when The Phantom appears dressed in red at the Masked Ball.

Don’t let the fact that it is a silent film scare you away from watching one of the most haunting films of all time.

Articles, Review

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 138, The Maltese Falcon (1941)

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!***

138. The Maltese Falcon (1941) (Directed by John Huston)

The Movie: Two private eyes in San Francisco, Sam Spade (Humphrey Bogart) and Miles Archer (Jerome Cowan) are visited by Ruth Wonderly (Mary Astor), who tell the men that her sister is missing. Ruth tells them that she ran away with a man named Floyd Thursby. Archer agrees to help Ruth find her sister and get her back home.

Later the same night, the police inform Spade that Archer has been killed. Further adding to the mystery is when Spade attempts to contact Ruth, she has checked out of her hotel and can’t be found.

Detective Polhaus (Walter Bond) and Lieutenant Dundy (Barton MacLane) believe Spade killed Thursby, who was also found dead, because he most likely killed Archer, giving Spade the motive to kill him.

The next morning, Spade is confronted by Ruth Wonderly, who confesses to Spade that her real name is Brigid O’Shaughnessy, and she made up the story to get help. Brigid tells Spade that Archer was her partner and most likely killed Archer, but she does not know who killed Thursby. Spade reluctantly agrees to help Brigid.

Later, Spade meets Joel Cairo (Peter Lorre) at his office, who believes Spade has a black figure bird and offers Spade $5,000 for it. Spade has no idea what Cairo is talking about and knocks him out after he pulls on gun on him. Cairo impressed hires Spade to help him as well.

Spade goes and visits Brigid and tells her about Cairo. She seems to know him and Spade arranges a meeting between Cairo and Brigid. At Spade’s apartment, Spade learns of the “Fat Man” who is now in San Francisco, which doesn’t sit well with Cairo.

The next morning Spade observes the man who was following him the night before. The man reveals his name to Spade, Wilmer Cook (Elisha Cook Jr.) and that he can take Spade to “Fat Man”. Spade meets the “Fat Man”, Kasper Gutman (Sydney Greenstreet). Kasper explains to Spade the story of The Maltese Falcon, and gives Spade a choice. He will give Spade $25,000 for the bird and another $25,000 after it’s sold, or he can take a quarter of whatever it sells for. Spade can’t answer as his drink was poisoned and he passes out, not before he sees Gutman, Cairo and Wilmer all leave together.

Spade awakens from his sleep and searches the office. He finds a newspaper and the ship La Paloma is circled on it with its arrival time. Spade arrives at the dock too late as the ship is engulfed in flames. The ships Captain Jacoby stumbles into Spade’s office, shot and mortally wounded. In his arms is The Maltese Falcon. Brigid calls Spade and gives him an address, when she does she screams and the phone goes dead. Spade stashes the Falcon at a bus terminal and finds the address given to him is an empty lot.

Back at Spade’s home, Brigid is waiting for him. Inside Spade’s home he finds Wilmer, Gutman, and Cairo waiting, with pistol pointed at him. Gutman offers Spade $10,000 for the Falcon, Spade however is more interested in turning someone over to the police for the murders of Archer and Captain Jacoby, suggesting Wilmer. Cairo and Gutman agree, and disarm and knock Wilmer out.

As the morning breaks, Spade instructs his secretary to bring the package that contains the statue. Gutman inspects the Falcon and discovers it’s fake and Wilmer escapes. Cairo and Gutman decide to continue their quest for the real Maltese Falcon. After they have left, Spade calls the police and tells them where the men are.

Spade then turns his attention to Brigid. Spade tells her that he knows she killed Archer to frame Thursby. Brigid confesses and begs Spade to not give her up to the police, Spade is unmoved and turns her over to the cops.

Why I Love The Maltese Falcon (1941): One of the coolest film noirs around, The Maltese Falcon has everything fans of detective stories, femme fatales could want. Sweet trench coats and fedora hats, check. Beautiful and deceiving women, check. Lots of smoking and drinking, check and check.

The film is shot with the shadows being characters by themselves. Every scene has a darkness to it and gives the film a sinister vibe.

Humphrey Bogart would perfect his on screen persona in 1941. He starred not only in this picture but became a big star earlier in the year with another noir classic, High Sierra. When you think of private eyes in the 1940’s your mind subconsciously is picturing Humphrey Bogart.

Mary Astor plays the femme fatale to perfection. Her sultry line readings with a hint of innocence and deceit would lay the ground work for other noirs and female characters like Barbra Stanwyk’s Phyllis Dietrichson.

John Huston made his directorial debut with The Maltese Falcon but his attention to detail made him one of the best directors in the 40’s and 50’s with expert blocking and pacing, The Maltese Falcon is a masterclass in suspense.

The Maltese Falcon soars on the wings of stellar casting, impeccable direction and a murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.

Articles, Top Lists

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 139, BASEketball (1998)

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!***

139. BASEketball (1998) (Directed by David Zucker)

The Movie: Joe “Coop” Cooper (Trey Parker) and Doug “Swish” Remer (Matt Stone) are best friends and slackers. They’ve mostly been hanging out playing Nintendo since high school. One night they go to a party with classmates from high school, because the woman throwing it, Brittany (Cory Oliver) is a woman that Remer “really, really wants to fuck.”

After striking out with Brittany and finding solace shooting a basketball really well, as long as they don’t have to pass or dribble, they catch the attention of some class jocks. When the jocks ask what game they are playing Coop and Remer explain BASEketball something they made up on the spot. The jocks respond, “like horse?” Coop takes offense and says, “no not like fucking horse!”

BASEketball grows from there where the boys are now having tournaments with another friend Kenny “Squeak” Scolari (Dian Bachar). On the night of their neighborhood championship, Coop and Remer are offered to take BASEketball professional by Ted Denslow (Ernest Borgnine). Coop and Remer only agree to make BASEketball pro if teams can’t move and players can’t change teams.

Five years pass and Coop and Remer are now part of the Milwaukee Beers and they find themselves in the Denslow Cup Finals where Denslow dies after choking on a hotdog. After the game Coop meets Jenna Reed (Yasmine Bleeth) the director of the Dream Come True Foundation and Coop’s number one fan Joey (Trevor Einhorn). At Denslow’s will reading he gives the Beers to Coop, but they must win the championship or the team goes to his wife Yvette (Jenny McCarthy).

Not only do Coop and Remer have to win the Denslow Cup but they must also contend with the owner of the Dallas Felons, Baxter Cain (Robert Vaughn) who is trying to get cooperate sponsors, allow teams to move and allow players to change teams. Coop and Remer are against the changes but Baxter starts preying on Remer as he seems to be the one most likely to change.

Coop doesn’t tell Remer he rejected Baxter’s offer, which Remer is upset about. Coop decides to give part of the team to Remer as a compromise and all decisions will now be made as a team. After Baxter cuts funding to Jenna’s organization, he blackmails Coop and Remer into signing a deal for a clothing line. Coop is against it, but Remer now part owner says they should and signs the deal and becomes A-list.

Coop learns that the Beers clothing line is being made in a factory on the backs of child labor in the country of Calcutta. Baxter tells the Beers that if they don’t purposely lose the Denslow Cup he will inform the public and Jenna’s foundation will be ruined.

Coop and Remer get into a fight, which leads to Coop leaving. Remer and the other Beers are left behind to throw the championship game.

Coop makes his way to Calcutta where he observes the child labor first hand and declares, “oh that’s not good!”

After fixing Remer’s mess in Calcutta Coop returns in time to try and win the Denslow Cup. The Beers do, and Coop, Remer and Lil’ Bitch, eh I mean Squeak are champions of BASEketball!

Why I Love BASEketball: Another film I quote endlessly with my friends, BASEketball holds a special place in my heart. To this day my friends and I will still quote this movie, “ Of course we graduated, Cock, beer?” Or “We still have no clue where the fuck this guy is.” Or one of my most favorite exchanges in any comedy;

Remer: Your bed is over here.

Squeak: Dude, that is so fucking weak! How am I supposed to get a chick in that?

Coop: Oh, don’t worry dude. You couldn’t get a chick if you had a hundred dollar bill hanging out of your zipper.

Squeak: Yeah I could!

Remer: No. Dude, you’re a little bitch.

Squeak: I am not! I don’t even know why I hang out with you guys, anyway.

Coop: ‘Cause you’re a piece of shit.

Squeak: I am not a piece of shit.

Remer: Yeah, but you’re a little bitch.

Squeak: Goddammit! I swear if you guys rip on me thirteen or fourteen more times…I’m outta here!

It’s a silly movie, dumb but funny. I can watch BASEketball 100 times and not get bored and still laugh. BASEketball is everything I love about film, being with my friends, quoting movies and us all having a laugh.

Articles, Top Lists

Ryan’s 150 Favorite Films: Number 140, Airplane! (1980)

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!***

140. Airplane! (1980) (Directed by Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrahams and David Zucker)

The Movie: Ted Striker (Robert Hayes) is a war veteran and washed-out pilot. He’s afraid of flying and also has a “drinking problem”. You see every time he tries to take a drink of something he missies his mouth.

Striker’s girlfriend Elaine Dickinson (Julie Hagerty) breaks things off with Striker as she prepares to board her flight as a flight attendant. Although Striker has a fear of flying, he abandons his taxi and gets a ticket for Eliane’s flight in an effort to win her back.

When Striker sits down, he tells his seat neighbor about how Elaine keeps breaking up with him, this drives them and several others to kill themselves rather then listen to him tell his stories.

The flight crew is served fish and become ill and unable to perform their duties. Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen), is a doctor onboard and informs Elaine that the prognosis of the flight crew is dire. Elaine contacts the control tower in Chicago where Supervisor Steve McCroskey (Lloyd Bridges) instructs Elaine to activate the autopilot. The autopilot is an inflatable dummy named “Otto”, which will fly the plane but will not be able to land it.

Striker is convinced by Dr. Rumack and Elaine to land the plane when they approach Chicago. But when Striker’s old commanding Officer, Rex Kramer (Robert Stack) attempts to help Striker land the plane, Striker has battlefield flashbacks and panics. Striker, with the help of Dr. Rumack and Elaine regains his confidence and takes the controls once again.

Striker and Elaine are able to safely land the plane, with no injuries (minus the people that killed themselves from Striker’s stories) and embrace and kiss.

Why I Love Airplane! (1980): A lot of my favorite movies have a reoccurring theme. I fell in love with them spending my weekends at Blockbuster Video with my friend Branden, renting movies and eating pizza. Airplane! was one of those movies.

I can still remember Branden and I not being able to breathe from laughing so hard when the PA announcer’s argue over what color represents where people can park. Or when Dr. Rumack has this exchange with Elaine;

Dr. Rumack: “What was it we had for dinner tonight?”

Elaine: “Well, we had a choice of steak or fish.”

Dr. Rumack: “Yes, yes, I remember, I had the lasagna.”

Airplane! was my first exposure to the amazing world of Zucker, Abrahams and Zucker films. I mentioned when I was talking about Weird: The Al Yankovic Story how much I love silly, stupid dialogue delivered serious. Airplane! is so clever and funny it begs to be rewatched countless times.

It is also the first film I remember loving the credits. As they scroll at the end there are funny lines abound, my favorite, Worst Boy… Adolf Hitler.

From beginning to end, Airplane! rewards its viewers with funny dialogue, outlandish characters and a bunch of monks getting beat up by Robert Stack.

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