The Black Case Diaries Movie/TV Podcast (Adam, Marci, and Robin)

Hey there, Cassettes! We know it's been a while since you've heard from us since we stopped releasing regular episodes in December. While we've been working on a series finale for our podcast, we thought it would be fun to honor our tradition of watching and reacting to The Oscars. We hope you enjoyed this year's ceremony!

Well, for four years now we've watched the Oscars and recorded our immediate reactions. This year was no different, though we did have a lot to say! Come join us as we try (and probably fail) to unpack Hollywood's biggest night.    Thanks for Listening!

Happy June, Cassettes! This month, we're bringing you three episodes inspired by Jim Henson! In the late 1970s when The Muppets were at their peak popularity, Kermit and the gang had their big screen debut. Come join us as we leave the swamp and head to Hollywood with our favorite frog and his friends!  Show notes and sources can be found here What's your favorite Muppet movie? Let us know! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thank you for listening!

What makes a screwball comedy? Well, to get technical, screwball comedies began as a sub-genre of romantic comedy in the 1930’s. The term has become a little more broad over time, and movies that we consider to be screwball comedies today might not focus specifically on a love story, but have elements that still turn the classic romance on its head. Come join us as we discuss some famous comedy parodies (specifically of the Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker variety.)   This episode we have a special guest! She hosts the awesome podcast, Your Brain on Facts. Please welcome Moxie LaBouche! We want to thank her for coming up with the topic for the week which is Screwball Comedy Parodies!   Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Website: www.blackcasediaries.com

Frightening February flew by this year, but we're saying goodbye to the month with another (brief) Case Around the Campfire! Come join us as we talk about some spooky happenings! Because of our LIVE episode, we weren't able to focus as much on the podcast content this month. So, we are extending Frightening February into Monstrous March! Look out for another episode about the Universal Monsters soon.  Stay Spooky and Thanks for Listening!

Hey everyone, welcome back to our series on Animation! This week, we’re continuing to look at the development of other major animated film studios through the lens of The Disney Exodus; an event that took place over the course of a few decades, but ultimately occurred in the late-70's and early 80's, when animators left the studio to pursue other projects--taking their skills and ideas with them. When we say Exodus, we refer to a lot of people leaving the studio at once, and a lot of people did leave Disney!  You can find show notes and sources on our site: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Happy Listening!

HEY YOU GUYS, we're back! Welcome to season 6 of The Black Case Diaries!  We're starting out strong with an episode on one of our all-time favorite movies: The Goonies! So come join us in Astoria, Oregon as we hunt for the history of this 1980s classic!   As always, you can find show notes and sources HERE  Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

Hey there, Cassettes! Frightening February continues with another (brief) case around the campfire! This time we caught up about some spooky happenings in our own lives and told a couple campfire stories. One was original and the other was a retelling of a classic folktale.  Come join us if you dare...

Why hello there, Cassettes! Welcome back to the BOO Case Diaries! This week, we're taking you to a carnival unlike any other, to explore the mirror maze and ride the backward carousel. Be on the lookout, for Something Wicked This Way Comes!   We're learning all about the 1983 film Something Wicked This Way Comes based on the classic Ray Bradbury novel, and it's a devil of a time! Show notes and sources can be found: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey, Cassettes! Welcome to week three of Frightening February!! This week, we decided to focus on three horror movies that were based on or inspired by true stories (well, for the most part, anyway). Come join us as we talk about real terrors and the horrors on-screen for Jaws (1975), The Amityville Horror (1979), and A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)!  Warning: We do talk about sensitive topics like real-life violence and death.  Thank you for listening and as always, show notes and sources are on the blog: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Hey Cassettes! We decided to finish out Frightening February with an episode all about the Alfred Hitchcock classic, Psycho! This week we visited the Bates Motel and learned all that we could about this important piece of horror cinema.  Come join us if you dare! Show notes and sources available: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Also you can listen to this episode on Youtube! Head to http://www.youtube.com/@blackcasediariespod

Welcome back to The Black Case Diaries! Every once in a while, we take some time to learn about a movie concept. For the first time on our show, we focused on a problematic film trope: The Manic Pixie Dream Girl. Come join us as we discuss this term's origin, specific examples, the affect that the term has has on pop culture, and possible real-world consequences. You will find all our show notes and sources at our website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Water, Earth, Fire, Air... Fifteen years ago, Nickelodeon premiered Avatar: The Last Airbender! Join us on the anniversary of this groundbreaking show to discuss how it was made, and its impact on our lives.  You can find show notes and sources on our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ and our blog https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ As always, thanks for listening!

Hey, Cassettes! As we enter the hottest month of the year, we decided to press pause and record a brief case on one of our favorite episodes of the classic Nickelodeon show, The Adventures of Pete and Pete! In this episode, we learn why the town of Wellsville has such hot summers. Spoiler alert: it's not about the humidity. Instead, the heat is intensified by the constant ringing of a payphone...and it's been going on for 27 years.  Come join us as we discuss this episode and talk about our favorite summer treats at the end!

It's the last day of summer, which means it's time to revisit the classic episode of The Adventures of Pete and Pete: What We Did on Our Summer Vacation. Join us for a (brief) discussion on this beautiful episode about the magic of summer and its bittersweet end.  Farewell, Summer!

Hi-ho, Cassettes! It's the BCD here and we're excited to share with you the story behind Jim Henson's beloved Christmas special: Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas!  You can find show notes and sources here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

AniMAY continues, Cassettes! Join us this week as talk about Makoto Shinkai's beautiful body-switching animated film from 2016, Your Name!  Just a heads up for listeners that have not seen the film, there are a few spoilers in the second half of the episode, starting around 32:30!  Show notes and sources can be found https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! We're into week two of Musical May, and we're setting our sights on 1960s Baltimore. Join us as we learn all about Hairspray! What's your favorite song from the musical? Let us know! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast As always, show notes and sources are available on the blog here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog   Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to our month of Animation! This week we are going to focus on one particular studio that hopped into the animation world back in the mid-1980s, and completely changed the game.  Since its first feature film in 1995, Pixar has been a symbol of animation excellence. Not only that, it became known for rich, original storytelling that engaged audiences while pulling on their heartstrings. Although Pixar has been owned by Disney since the mid-2000’s, for the most part it still stands on its own under the mouse-ear umbrella. Today we're taking you back to where it all began! You can find show notes and sources (as well as some clips) on our blog and website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ or https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/

Happy Thanksgiving, Cassettes! And welcome to another (brief) case of the Black Case Diaries! We’re usually three old friends learning everything we can about movies and TV and hopefully teaching you in the process *Introduce yourself*  This month, we talked all about movies that were based on books. Since it’s still November, we’re continuing that theme with, "The Snowman," a British TV special from 1982!  We want to wish you all the happiest of holidays and thank you for always being there for us.  Show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog

Ho ho ho, Cassettes! We're BACK! Thank you for joining us as we embark on season 8 of the BCD. This week we started our month-long Christmas celebration with a deep dive into A Christmas Story (1983)! Come laugh with us, won't you?  Show notes and sources here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Welcome back to the BOO Case Diaries! It's the second Thursday in October and we are diving deep into the Halloween season with the history of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas!  Released on October 13th, 1993, this film gleefully celebrates everything strange and wonderful about Halloween. Brought to life by a powerhouse team, led by Tim Burton, Henry Selick, and Danny Elfman, the story follows Jack Skellington, the pumpkin king of Halloweentown, as he faces issues with burnout and his own identity. This stop-motion masterpiece has been inspiring audiences for almost 30 years! So, grab your pumpkins and costumes, because THIS IS HALLOWEEN! Show notes and sources are available on our website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @Blackcasediary Instagram: @Blackcasediariespodcast

Hey, Cassettes! Welcome back to another episode of The BCD! This week we're continuing our reptile theme with ANOTHER movie about dragons. This time we're learning all about the 2010 animated classic, How to Train Your Dragon. Come join us! As always, show notes and sources can be found on the blog: https://blackcasediaries.com/ Thank you so much for listening!

Hey, Cassettes! As we're gearing up for Fall, we decided to revisit a classic 90s Autumn favorite: Practical Magic! Come join us as we learn everything we can about The Owens Sisters and their family of witches.  Show notes and sources can be found here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Well Cassettes, we all knew that someday this case would come! This week, we sat down and talked about the history of Disney's first full-length animated film: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! Come learn the history of this experiment in animation that became the cornerstone of one of the biggest media companies in the world!   As always, show notes and sources can be found here: https://blackcasediaries.com/ Thank you so much for listening!

Hey Cassettes! This week, another podcast bravely took on the task of hosting our show for a super fun Secret Santa gift exchange! So settle in with your cocoa, and get swept up in this episode about the 1996 classic, Twister! We don't have show notes and sources on the blog this week, but make sure to follow/subscribe our special guest hosts!

This week we are celebrating women's history by discussing the trailblazing comedy duo Zasu Pitts and Thelma Todd! In the early days of talkies, Pitts & Todd made 17 comedic shorts with Hal Roach Studio.  Listen as we discuss these hilarious women, their lives outside of the movies, and our favorite shorts.  Check out our blog https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ or website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ for sources and show notes, as well as a link to some clips!

Merry Belated Christmas, Cassettes!  We know that the holidays are over, but we thought we would give you one last episode about three movies that are Christmas movies without being...well, Christmas movies. We debated whether or not these three classics were holiday films until we were blue in the face. What do you think?    Show notes and sources can be found: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey there, Cassettes! We're continuing to celebrate Animation April with another one of our famous "prompt" episodes! This week, we each came to the studio with an animated show that we think deserves a bit more love and attention. Here are our picks for Animated Hidden Gems (TV edition)! Check out our website for show notes, sources, and other episodes here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Hold onto your butts, Cassettes, and welcome to the Case of Jurassic Park! We finally traveled to the most famous theme park in history to observe (and run from) dinosaurs!  Come join us as we discuss how this classic film changed movies forever! You can read along with our show notes and sources at: https://blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! We're starting our Frightening February with part 1 of our Historical Case of The Horror Film! Ever since there has been life, there has been fear. It’s a constant, a truth, something that unites us all. And when humans gathered together to share their fears, those horrors became stories. Eventually, those stories made their way onto film.  Horror is tricky. It’s a genre that many people love or hate--with no in-between. Some people write off many films belonging in the genre as low-budget and lacking in worthwhile stories or development. Others will simply say that they prefer not to be scared, and leave horror unexplored. Although scary movies are popular, they still sit on the fringe of mainstream filmmaking. Horror films rarely win prestigious awards. It’s a genre built for the masses; born in counterculture, and thriving in social deviance.  Join us this week as we take a look at the history of horror cinema, from its birth through the 1940s.  For show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hello! Here is a totally normal episode from your regular podcast hosts.  APRIL FOOLS! The truth is, this is an episode from Jackie Watches Stuff! It's a wonderful podcast hosted by Jackie, who invites her friends to discuss classic movies that she has never seen. This episode is on the Adam Sandler classic: The Wedding Singer! You can find the rest of her show on her website: https://jackiewatchesstuff.buzzsprout.com/ and on Twitter @jackiewatches!  Did we fool ya? Come on, be honest... ;)  See you next week, Cassettes!

Hey there, Cassettes! This week we continued Animation April with an episode all about the history of Warner Brothers' answer to Disney's Silly Symphonies: The Looney Tunes!  Come join us while we learn everything we can about this wacky bunch of animated characters! Show notes and sources available at: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hello and thank you for joining us once again at The Black Case Diaries!  Today, we’re taking a look at one of Jim Henson's most well-known and beloved creations: The Muppet Show. The Muppet show aired from 1976 to 1981, five seasons of perfect insanity and uninhibited joy. It followed Kermit, a hapless producer and host of a weekly variety show, and the rest of the Muppets as they put together a live performance with a special guest. The show followed back-stage hi jinks, and even included commentary from Statler and Waldorf, grumpy critics from the upper balcony.  The show became more popular than anyone could have imagined, and the appeal of The Muppets continues today. So, it’s time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights, it’s time to learn about the muppets on the BCD tonight! Visit https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ for show notes and sources Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey, Cassettes! As August comes to a close, we decided to bring you a bonus episode about a back-to-school gem, Sky High (2005)!  We're trying out a new release schedule for the rest of the season, where we bring you four full-length episodes every other month. That means that you can expect to hear from us again all throughout October. Do you have any thoughts on this new schedule? Let us know! Our Instagram is @blackcasediariespodcast, or you can email us at blackcasediaries@gmail.com  Thanks for listening!

Welcome Back! This week for June Tunes, we decided to have a little fun and rank our top 10 Disney Villain songs!  It’s undeniable that Disney music is an iconic element to the studio’s best animated films. Disney songs have permeated American (and sometimes world) pop culture throughout the last 70 years. Some songs are tender moments between characters while others are show-stopping power ballads that we belt out in our cars. Today, we’re taking a look at some of the most fun and interesting entries in the Disney songbook: The villain songs.  These songs are incredibly important in terms of introducing the audience to the main antagonist, giving us a look into the mind and motivations of a character. A good villain song is fun to listen to and perform, and it brings (sometimes) much-needed depth to these intriguing characters! We’re bringing you a top 10 list of our favorite villainous tunes, with some background and history on each.  Show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey Cassettes! This week we dive into a subject Adam has been waiting to discuss... Dinosaurs!!!! We know Adam has been periodically inserting facts about Jurassic Park in many of our other episodes, but this time we discuss the history of dinosaurs in film. We also talk about some of the most well known and loved dinosaurs in these movies by ranking the top five. So join us on a journey to a land before time, where we will learn all about dinosaurs in movies! Sources and show notes can be found on our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ and our blog: https://wordpress.com/post/blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/523

Welcome back to the BOO Case Diaries! This week we're wrapping up spooky month with an episode on one of the most beloved "creature" movies of all time: ET!  Come join us as we discuss this classic that embodies the magic and wonder of childhood (with a little Halloween mixed in)!    Thanks for Listening, and Happy Halloween!  Check out show notes and sources (with some extras!) on our website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, Cassettes! It's the season 7 FINALE of The Black Case Diaries and this week, we're bringing you a double feature about two holiday classics: The Great Pumpkin and Ernest Scared Stupid.  So please come join us as we wrap up the season in the pumpkin patch with Linus. On the way back, we'll help Ernest defeat some trolls!  Show notes and sources can be found here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thank you SO MUCH for joining us this season!

Hello, Cassettes! Yesterday marked one year since Blue Sky Studios was shut down, and we're honoring their legacy with an episode all about this groundbreaking animation studio! Come join us as we cover the history of Blue Sky and talk briefly about their films! What's your favorite Blue Sky film?  Show notes and sources are available at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ *A previous version of this episode referred to the author of Nimona by the incorrect first name. Their name is N.D. Stevenson. We apologize to N.D. and to listeners for the error.

Hello, Cassettes!! It's June, and this month we've decided to focus on gigantic movie reptiles! So, for our first episode this month, we went back (wayyyy back) to the 10th century to check in on our favorite film dragon, Draco! Come join us as we learn all about Dragonheart.  Show notes and sources: https://blackcasediaries.com/ Thank you so much for listening!

Greetings from Gravity Falls, Cassettes! We spent our second week of October learning all we could about this little town in Oregon, where the strange and unexplained happens on a regular basis. Join us, won't you?  You can find all episodes and show notes at our website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey there, Cassettes! Like all good things, Animation April must come to an end. But before we close the case on this month, we have one last episode for you.  This week, we decided to look into the history of women in animation. Over the past five years, we have done so many episodes about animation. But after a while we noticed that we hardly ever heard about the female pioneers of the medium. After a little research, we discovered that women have been part of animation from the very beginning, and we wanted to tell some of their stories.  As always, thanks for listening to our little show. It means a lot that you're willing to spend your time hanging out with us. Make sure to check out our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ for more info about this episode or any other that we have released.  Thanks!

Hey there, Cassettes! We decided to carry on our tradition of watching The Oscars together and recording our reactions. Follow along as we list all the winners of the evening and highlight our favorite moments.  What was your favorite moment from the Oscars?  You can listen to all our previous Oscars episodes at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

In the late 1970s, Robin Williams burst onto the comedy scene. He soon became a household name as Mork, the alien from Ork on the sitcoms "Happy Days" and "Mork and Mindy." Over the next few decades, Robin Williams entertained and inspired generations of fans. Not only was he one of the greatest comedic minds of all time, he proved to be a remarkable actor as well. He entertained in a way that no one ever has, or likely ever will. He was a shining light despite the darkness lurking in his own world, a chaotic beacon that millions looked to for warmth and a good laugh.  So today, we’re spending our first biography episode of the year on the incomparable Robin Williams.  You will find show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey Cassettes and welcome back to the BCD! As summer vacation comes to a close, we decided to revisit one of our favorite summer classics: The Sandlot (1993)! Come join us as we laugh and learn all about the 90s cult hit that gave us quotable lines like, "you're killin' me, Smalls!" Head on over to https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ for show notes and sources.  Thanks for listening!

Ho ho ho, Cassettes! Thank you for joining us again at the Christmas Case Diaries! This week, we decided to make a list (and check it twice) of our five favorite Film/TV Santas! Did your favorite make the list? Did we forget a great Santa? Let us know on Twitter @blackcasediary and Instagram @blakcasediariespodcast! Show Notes and Sources are available at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to another episode of The Black Case Diaries! This week we're talking about the career of one of the most prolific voice talents of all time: June Foray! From Rocky the Flying Squirrel to Talky Tina, June entertained millions over the course of her 85-year career.  We couldn't possibly talk about everything June voiced, but we touched on some of the highlights! Please visit https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog for show notes, sources, and clips. Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram:  @blackcasediariespodcast

Happy Thursday, Cassettes!  Well, our season four finale has arrived, and now that we're at the end, we decided to Psych you out! This week we discussed the history of the hit USA TV show Psych, its influence, and why we love Shawn and Gus.  Thank you so much for tuning in this season, we will see you again soon! Check out our website for more info!  https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey there Cassettes! As October continues, we thought it would be fun to revisit some of the the wacky and unforgettable Halloween TV specials from our youth. In this episode, we talked about The Halloween That Almost Wasn't (1979), Halloween is Grinch Night (1977), and The Last Halloween (1991).  What were some of your favorite Halloween specials from your childhood?

Happy Thursday, Cassettes! This week we're bringing you the second episode of our monthly audio drama, No Small Parts! This show explores the possible backstory of minor film characters, highlighting the impact they had on their movies. This episode focuses on a Maintenance Worker named Joffrey.  Each episode of this show will appear in its own feed: https://linktr.ee/nosmallparts This episode includes sound effects gathered from Freesound.org, and features music from the following artists: Eflexmusic, Lemonceme, ShadyDave, Klankbeeld, Neutrin05 Music, Silent Partner, Scott Buckley, Puddle of Infinity, and Alex Mason Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey, Cassettes and welcome to the LAST episode of AniMAY! We're sorry we had to postpone the episode a day this week.  In this episode, we decided to discuss how Anime was introduced to American audiences and its influence on media here in the United States. We start with Japanese animation history, then jump to series like Astro Boy! We hope you enjoy this episode! Thank you so much for listening.  As always, show notes and sources are on the blog at: https://blackcasediaries.com/

Hey Cassettes! Once again, it's time for a short(er) episode on the Oscars! Last night was a night of history-making wins, predictable honors, and some interesting surprises. Just like last year, we gathered to watch and record our reactions right after. What did you think of the Oscars? Were you excited, disappointed, or bored? Let us know! As Always, thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! In the late 1960s, six comedians premiered a sketch comedy show on BBC. They became known as Monty Python, and their wacky, nonsensical humor changed television. Join us this week as we discuss the history of Monty Python's Flying Circus, and their feature film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975). Check out our Patreon for Marci's drink of the week: The Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch Take a look at our blog https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ or website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ for show notes and sources!

Hello Cassettes and welcome back to The Black Case Diaries podcast! When we first released this episode we were on week 2 of June Tunes. This is a very special episode. We have covered film concepts and individual movies, but this was our first-ever biography episode!  A while back, we did some episodes about movie scores. We talked about prominent composers and themes we think every movie fan should know. But today we are highlighting one man in particular: John Williams. This man has majorly influenced not just film music, but mainstream American culture for the last 45 years. Even if you don’t know his name, you might know his music. His themes have made you feel inspired, scared, happy, and sad; and they may have even convinced you to believe in magic.  So come jam with us while we talk about the man, the myth, the movie music legend: John Williams! Show notes and sources https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Cassettes!  For Christmas this year, we all sat down to watch the delightful Babes in Toyland (1986)! None of us had seen this movie before, and it was a wild ride!

*Snap Snap* Welcome to our episode on The Addams Family! This week, we went back to the beginning and discussed where everyone's favorite family of nonconformists came from! What's your favorite version of the Addams Family?  Check out our new website for show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Picture it: You’re in second grade, coming off a rigorous school week. You open your eyes to a quiet house on a Saturday morning, and sneak downstairs. No one else is awake, and the TV is all yours. You have a seat with a bowl of cereal and turn on your favorite Saturday Morning Cartoon… This week, we're taking a look at the history behind Saturday Morning Cartoons and highlighting our childhood favorites! What did you watch on Saturday mornings? Show notes and sources will be on our blog at blackcasediaries.wordpress.com and blackcasediaries.com Thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! Well, we've reached the end of Animation April, and we're closing out the month with an episode on one of our all-time favorite studios: Cartoon Saloon! Join us as we cover how the studio got started, and the history of its four films! As always, you can find show notes and sources here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog And you can reach us on Twitter @blackcasediary and Instagram @blackcasediariespodcast or at blackcasediaries@gmail.com Thanks for listening!

Hello, Cassettes! Welcome back to another (brief) case from the BCD! We will be resuming our regular episodes very soon, but until then, it's time for our annual Oscars episode!! Did your favorites win last night?  Twitter: @blackcasediary  Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Website: blackcasediaries.com

Hey there Cassettes, and happy summer vacation! This week we wrapped up part one of season 8 here at the BCD with a briefcase about the 2001 Disney film, Recess: School's Out! Our show has gone through some changes this season, and we haven't been able to give you episodes as often as we'd like. But, we're taking a short break and we hope to come back better than ever! Thank you so much for all your support!

There's no place like home, Cassettes! We're back again with another full length episode of the BCD!! Join us this week as we learn all that we can about the history behind The Wizard of Oz (1939).  Thank you for listening!   You can read our show notes and sources at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/blackcasediaries Instagram & Threads: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey there, Cassettes! We're continuing Animation April with a biography episode on Don Bluth! Throughout the 80s and 90s, Don Bluth led the animation studio behind classics like The Land Before Time and All Dogs go to Heaven. This week, we took a look into his life and career! For show notes and sources, check out https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Hello, Cassettes! As we continue with Frightening February, we're taking a look at the life and legacy of The Father of the Zombie Film: George Romero!  What are your favorite George Romero films? Let us know @blackcasediary on Twitter! Show notes and sources available here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Hey Cassettes, and welcome back to another ranking episode of the BCD! This week, we decided to listen to a massive list of Cartoon Network theme songs and pick our top 5 favorites. What's your favorite Cartoon Network theme song?  Show notes and sources are available here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! For this week's episode of BCD, we went back to our roots. Almost 7 years ago, we recorded together for the very first time. Back then, we planned on only discussing one movie a week and we didn't plan on focusing on film or TV history. After we recorded the episode, we didn't even edit it. We put it on Soundcloud and that's where it sat for 5 years until we finally decided to do this podcast thing for real. So, we decided to give ourselves a chance to do it over! Today we will talk about the same topic as we did 6 years ago: The Neverending Story (1984) As always, show notes and sources will be on our blog blackcasediaries.wordpress.com or our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey, Cassettes! Welcome to week two of Novel November! The Shawshank Redemption is considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made. But, do you know the story of how it came to be? Come join us this week as we learn all about this box office flop and its long crawl to making movie history!   Show notes and sources will be available on the blog: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog You can get in touch with us via Twitter: @blackcasediary or Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

In August of 1993, children across America fell in love with a campy live-action TV show about five teenagers who battled the evils of the universe. The Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers soon became a global phenomenon, and the series still has a strong following 27 years later. Join us this week as we discuss the history of The Power Rangers! You can find our show notes and sources on our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ or our blog https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ Thanks for listening!

Happy Thursday, Cassettes! This week we talk about a beloved BBC mini series, the 1995 Pride and Prejudice. There have been several different adaptations of Jane Austen’s books, but it seems as though this version has caught the hearts of many. In this episode we have a very special guest: Em from Verbal Diorama! We will begin with a little about Jane Austen, the history behind the BBC show, who it stars, and what it all means to us.  If we talk too much about Colin Firth, well it could not be helped!!  You can find Verbal Diorama wherever you listen to podcasts, as well as follow her on Twitter @VerbalDiorama! As always, the show notes and sources will be available on our blog and website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

Welcome to season 4 of The Black Case Diaries! We decided to return strong with our now annual series on movie music: June Tunes! This month we will be covering various topics all involving music in movies. Today we’re starting with an all-time favorite: The Blues Brothers!  In the summer of 1980, a film that defied description raced into theaters. The Blues Brothers starred two big names from SNL, an all-star list of Rhythm and Blues legends, and one of the biggest budgets in comedy history. Even John Landis, the film’s director, wasn’t sure what genre the film belonged in. Is it a comedy? Musical? Forty years later, one thing is for certain: it’s a cult classic of epic proportions.  Ride along with us as we talk the history of the band, SNL sketch, and the film. You will find show notes and links on our blog: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Thanks for listening! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/blackcasediaries

Welcome ghosts, ghouls, goblins, and whoever else has stumbled upon our show! This is our annual (Brief) Case Around the Campfire! Come laugh (and shiver) with us as we tell some spooky tales about our home state of Ohio.  You'll find all our other brief cases at: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! In honor of this the spookiest of all days, here is a special bonus episode, recorded around a campfire.  This episode is a follow-up to our original "Brief Case Around the Campfire" that we released in the spring of 2019. We decided to gather (safely) again to tell spooky stories and release it on Halloween.  So, have a spectacularly spooky Halloween!

Hey, Cassettes! As we begin Fall, we decided to look at the many different versions of Washington Irving's classic tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow! Come join us as we learn everything we can about Ichabod, Katrina Van Tassel, and Brom Bones, and the Headless Horseman.  Show notes and sources can be found here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Happy Musical May, Cassettes! We're starting off the month with one of our all-time favorite movie musicals, The Music Man (1962)! Join us this week as we cover the history of this classic film, and talk about our favorite songs and moments.    As always, you can find more info at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary  Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast  Thanks for listening!

Happy Animation April, Cassettes!  For our first episode in our animation series, we decided to take a look at three animated films that we think deserve a little more recognition. This is our case of the animated hidden gem! Adam started us off with a dive into the 2007 Sony Pictures film, "Surf's Up"! Robin guided us through the epic fantasy adventure of "The Last Unicorn". And, Marci brought us home by the way of OZ with the Toho Studios animated "The Wizard of Oz"!  As always, you can find show notes and sources on our blog: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

Hey, Cassettes! To celebrate the end of another Animation April, we decided to have a little fun (FUN?) and do a laid-back review of Disney's crown jewel of straight-to-DVD sequels.  The Lion King II: Simba's Pride is a fun ride for anyone that enjoys some lighthearted animation and incredible songs! Come join us as we hang up our learning caps and enjoy some animation.  Thanks for listening!

Happy March 31st, Cassettes!  This week, we decided to release our episode a day early so we could have one last episode in honor of Women's History Month! Join us as we head to Pawnee, Indiana and tour the parks department with Leslie, Ron, Tom, Donna, April, Jerry, Andy, Ben and Chris! Grab your waffles and Snake Juice, it's time to learn about Parks and Rec! Show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

Hey, Cassettes! Thanks for joining us on week two of Adventure August! In this episode, we decided to explore the Land of Ooo with a very special guest, Robin's sister Becky! So come on, grab your friends, and learn all about the animated show Adventure Time with us! Show notes and sources are available at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

Hello Cassettes! We truly hope you have been enjoying Musical May here at the BCD. This week, we're bringing you an episode SO BIG, we had to cut it into two. Please join us as we cover our final musical of the month: The Sound of Music!    As always, show notes and sources will be available here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog What do you think about this movie? Let us know! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!

Hey Cassettes! This week, we're getting ready to release our season 5 finale. So as a special treat, here's a bonus episode from us, about...US! We decided to record an episode about how our show got started and answered some frequently asked questions about the BCD. Don't worry, you are getting a regular episode this week, just one day later.  Thank you for everything! We wouldn't be here without you.  If you have any questions or comments for us, you can find us on Twitter: @blackcasediary and Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast or you can email us: blackcasediaries@gmail.com

Happy New Year, Cassettes! Last year, we started the new year off with an episode about sequels. This year, we’re doing it again, but with a twist! Each of us picked a movie that flopped, bombed, and fizzled out into oblivion after their initial releases. Then, we all thought of the sequels that we would make to “save” those movies; a subsequent film that would give the franchise another chance!  So welcome to 2021, and The Case of 2nd Chance Sequels! You can find show notes and sources here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Here's the link to our new show No Small Parts! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hello Cassettes, and welcome to FRIGHTENING FEBRUARY! Every year, we like to dedicate this month to the scariest topics we can think of. This year, we decided to tackle the history behind the iconic Universal Monsterverse! So come join us (if you dare) as we break down the history behind Universal's scariest films, specifically Dracula and Frankenstein. We hope to bring you part 2 very soon!  Show notes and sources: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/

In the summer of 1985, Walt Disney studios released a sequel to one of Hollywood’s most iconic films. Except--it wasn’t really a sequel. There were some characters with the same names, and it was based on the same source material, but the setting and tone were completely different. The director of this new movie, Walter Murch, called it “dark” and “bleak,” and audiences would agree. Disney itself didn’t know how to market the movie, with a dreaded PG rating that was sure to keep parents from taking their children. Their biggest challenge was to shatter the expectations set by the original film, the brightly-colored musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”  Come join us as we take a look at possibly the darkest and strangest Disney movie: Return to Oz!  Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast Twitter: @blackcasediary

Hey, give us a listen you corpses of cheer (at least those of you that still have an ear)! It's time for an episode all about The Corpse Bride! This week we uncover the history behind this groundbreaking stop-motion classic from Tim Burton.  Show notes and sources can be found at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Hey there, Cassettes! Animation April has come to an end, we’ve decided to launch right into Musical May! This week we’re revisiting a movie that we’ve mentioned before. But this time, we’re gonna give you the whole scoop. It’s Newsies! Come join us while we learn everything we can about the newsboy strike of 1899 and the movie musical from 1992 that always makes us want to "Seize the Day!" Show notes and sources available at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to yet another week about animation! This week, we’re continuing our look at Stop-Motion with a studio that stands on its own as a leader in claymation.  Since its founding in 2005, Laika has been making a name for itself among the animation elite. Though stop-motion is not the most popular or cost-effective form of animation, they continue to stun audiences with their technical mastery with each new film they produce.  Last week we talked about Will Vinton, the father of “Clay-mation.” This week we are picking up with the end of his story and the beginning of Laika. We will touch on each of their five movies, and what we “Laika” about them.  You can find show notes and sources https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ or https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ Thanks for listening!

Today we are taking a look at the career of choreographer-turned-director, Kenny Ortega! Kenny Ortega is responsible for some of the most iconic dance scenes of the 1980's, from the lift in “Dirty Dancing” to Duckie’s moves in “Pretty in Pink.” He went on to direct some of Disney’s cult classics that will be remembered for generations. Check out our website for show notes, sources, and clips! https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hey there, Cassettes! As we continue with June Tunes, we thought we might do a short episode on a classic made-for-TV musical from 1989: Polly! This film was an episode of The Magical World of Disney and it truly made a lasting impression on fans, despite the fact that Disney has not made it readily available. It's a musical adaptation of the novel Pollyanna and is set in Alabama in 1955.  Here is a link to the film on YouTube if you'd like to give it a watch!!

Hey Cassettes and welcome back to the Black Case Diaries! So as we wrapped up our month of horror, we thought of the perfect movie to help us transition into the Spring season. It’s got everything: a touch of horror, a little bit of romance, some basketball, and a whole lot of fun! We’re talking about the 1985 Michael J Fox film, Teen Wolf!  Come join us as we learn about and discuss this 80s classic! You will find show notes and sources at: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog  Follow us on Instagram @blackcasediariespodcast and Twitter @blackcasediary!  As always, thanks for listening!

Hey there, Cassettes! We're back to bring you the second part to last week's episode on Chicago (2002)! In this episode, we broke down the principal actors, the musical numbers, and the film's reception.  For show notes and sources, head to: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/season-9

Hey there, Cassettes! Welcome to another episode of the BOO Case Diaries!! This week, we forced Adam to watch an 80s classic he had never seen, and we discussed the history behind Joel Schumacher's The Lost Boys!   Did you grow up with this vampire film? Let us know! We're on Instagram as @blackcasediariespodcast. Show notes and sources are available on our website at https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Merry Christmas, Cassettes! On this Christmas Eve, we bring you the first episode of our new audio drama! No Small Parts will be a monthly drama, following the stories of minor characters in major films. All episodes will be released on its own feed, so be sure to subscribe here You can also check out more info on our website https://www.blackcasediaries.com/   Thanks for listening!

Happy December, Cassettes! We're back this holiday season with an all-new episode about one of our favorite romantic comedies: The Holiday! Come join us as we discuss this Nancy Meyers classic.  Show notes and sources will be available on our website: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/ Thanks for listening!

Happy Anniversary, Cassettes! Two years ago today, we released our first episode about the various versions of “A Christmas Carol.” Things were different back then, in podcasting and in life. Our only goal back then, was to make each episode better than the last. We still strive for that, putting as much work into the show as our schedules will allow. We love podcasting, and we’re incredibly blessed to have listeners like you.  So, we’re closing out the month with an exciting episode about one of the biggest pieces of the Christmas season: Christmas Music! Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir--and Bing Crosby--and Mariah Carey--and literally every artist ever--yes, these are the signs that it’s Christmas! There are thousands of Christmas songs, but every year we tend to hear the same few, covered by different artists. Some of these compositions were written specifically for the screen, and made such an impact on audiences, that they became instant Christmas classics. So today, we are taking a look at the film and TV origins of popular Christmas songs!  Here is a an accompanying playlist for this episode! Show notes and sources here Thanks for listening!

*This is a re-release of an episode from Season 5* Hello again, Cassettes! As season 5 of The Black Case Diaries comes to a close, we're bringing you an episode about the life of Jim Henson! Come join us as we talk about this innovator's early life and career, and the impact he made during his time here on Earth.  If you're interested in our other episodes about Jim Henson or The Muppets, here are some links:  The Muppet Show The Muppet Movie Labyrinth  The Storyteller A Muppet Christmas Carol Show notes and sources are available at blackcasediaries.com! Thanks for listening! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Happy Thursday, Cassettes! This week we're continuing Adventure August with a very special episode about the 2004 Disney live-action classic, National Treasure! Come join us as we invite special guest JD Gravatte to tell us why he loves this film!   You can follow JD on Twitter @jdgravatte and Instagram @jdg122288. Keep an eye out for his new podcast, Not the Original, coming soon! As always, you can find our show notes and sources here: https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram: @blackcasediariespodcast

Hello, Cassettes! So, summer break is over and school is back in session. No need to be sad, though, because we're giving you a crash course in three of our favorite school-themed movies! Listen in as we cover the history of School of Rock, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and Back to School!   Check out https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog for show notes and sources!

Love them or hate them, zombie movies have their place in cinematic history. These films featuring the living dead have been around as early as the 1930’s. Not long after that, however, a new genre appeared: The Zombie Comedy.  In 2004, Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg utilized the zombie concept and created Shaun of the Dead: a modern Zom-Rom-Com about an uninspired man leading an uneventful life until he’s faced with a zombie apocalypse. Shaun of the Dead became an instant classic, developing its own zombie-like following that has stayed strong for the last 16 years!  So this week come join us at the Winchester where we will have a nice cold pint and discuss how Shaun of the Dead will never blow over.  Check out our sources and show notes at: https://blackcasediaries.wordpress.com/ or https://www.blackcasediaries.com/blog

Hey there, Cassettes! We're back with another episode about a beloved musical! This week, we dove deep into the history of Mary Poppins, the classic live-action Disney film that continues to win the hearts of movie fans sixty years after its release.  Check out our website for show notes and sources!

Hello Cassettes! Well, it's time to say So Long, Farewell to Musical May. Here is the second installment of our deep dive into The Sound of Music!   Check out our blog for show notes and sources! What's your favorite song from the film? Let us know! Twitter: @blackcasediary Instagram @blackcasediariespodcast Thanks for listening!