The Literary License Podcast (Literary License Podcast)

The Keys of Marinus

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11 April – 16 May 1964

The First Doctor his granddaughter Susan Foreman and her teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright search for four keys to restore the Conscience of Marinus, a computer which maintains law and order. The group travel to two cities, a jungle, and an icy wasteland in search of the keys.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (15.29); Let's Discuss (18.51); Favourite Moment (27.29); Let's Rate (49.06); Tune In Next Time (50.21); Closing Credits (53.43)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Keys To My Heart by Mr Dutch.  Copyright 2020 Nigerian Street Music – Afrobeats.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

For Batman enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados, join us in our retrospective journey into Batman- the animated series, other popular TV shows, and some cinematic favourites. Get to know our animated panel of experts – Sean Steffen, Joe Randazzo, Vicky Rae, and our host, Keith Chawgo, as they reveal their personal and professional experiences and their taste in movies. Delve into our extensive discussions on films, acting performances, and influential career positioning films. With lively debates, fascinating movie recommendations, and healthy doses of humour and sarcasm, this promising episode promises not just an interesting listen but a joyful ride through your favourite films and TV shows.

As we shift gears, our conversation lightens as we discuss the timeless beauty of black women and then dives into a shared appreciation for the film, "Bullet." From films recently screened in the local theatre to others including "Ring of Fire 2," "Psycho Cop," and the intriguing series "Twin Peaks," we discuss everything that enkindles our interest with enthusiasm and thorough analysis. Join us as we examine everything from thrilling chase scenes to emotional dialogues, painting a vivid cinematic world.

Analysing Popular TV Series: Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and Shogun.  

Engage with us in a free-flowing discussion on reactions and thoughts on some of the trending TV series. The conversation evolves as we delve into performances, visual aesthetics, storyline intricacies, and the creative decisions driving narratives in series such as Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows, and the recently released series of Shogun. Navigate through this enlightening episode as we analyse characters, critique story strengths and weaknesses across different seasons, and conjecture how real-world events such as the Gulf War influenced certain shows.

Exploring Vintage Cinema Classics & Batman's Animated Series

In this episode, we pay homage to vintage cinema classics and Batman's animated series. Our discussion enlightens the contributions of William Castle, the American film director, and his timeless productions, including "Macabre," "House on Haunted Hill," and "The Tingler." We meticulously discuss the cinematic world of Batman's animated series, shedding light on key characters, intriguing plots involving The Clock King and Catwoman, and brilliant presentation techniques.

Universe of Superheroes: Batman, Catwoman, Nightwing, and Spider-Man

Dive into the thrilling universe of superheroes, exploring their influence on cinema and broader popular culture. Listen to our engaging debate on characters such as Batman, Catwoman, the Gotham-resident Nightwing, and Marvel's Spider-Man, dissecting their different portrayals and analysing their appeals. The episode offers an immersive experience into the captivating world of iconic superheroes and would appeal especially to DC and Marvel universe enthusiasts.

Dissecting DC and Marvel: Comic Books, Films, TV Shows, and Influence

In this captivating episode, get engrossed in our deliberation on DC and Marvel's comic books, films, television shows, and how they influence each other. Join the discussions about two of the largest comic book empires, their adaptations, their distinctive fan bases, and the future of comic-based cinematic experiences.

Filmmaking & the Obsession with Trends: Industry Concerns and Critiques

In this gripping and honest discussion, we delve into grave concerns within the film industry today. Discussing issues like the rise of trend-driven filmmaking, the overdose of sequels, the evolution of Marvel and Star Wars' universes along with critiques of popular TV series such as The Mandalorian and Andor, this episode discusses how an overdose of trends can harm the film and TV industry's creativity and quality.

Exploring Batman's Animated Series: From Iconic Episodes to Recent Releases

In this episode, we embark on a journey through Batman's animated series, reviewing memorable moments, assessing nostalgic classics like Clerks 3, and discussing less favorable moments from recent releases. Join us as we delve into the layers of these iconic episodes, sharing insightful reviews, critiques and unravel the intriguing stories within stories in the Batman universe.

A Critique of 'Baby Doll' from Batman: The Problem of Fading Stardom

In this episode, we discuss the surprisingly poignant episode 'Baby Doll' from Batman's classic series. Join our conversation as we explore the struggles of child stars when their limelight dims prematurely. A deep dive into 'Baby Doll' offers a remarkable blend of absurdity, poignancy, and the dark realities of child stardom. 

Opening Credits– Adventures of Batman and Robin The  - Animated Series by Shirley Walker.  Copyright 2008 Warner Records. All rights reserved

Closing Credits: Baby Doll by Ari Abdul.  Taken from the album Fallen Angel.  Copyright 2022 Ari Abdul

Section Breaks:  Music from the Batman: The Animated Series.  Music by Shirley Walker.  Copyright 2008 Warner Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Little Mermaid is a literary fairy tale written by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, first published in 1837 as part of a collection of fairy tales for children. The story follows the journey of a young mermaid who is willing to give up her life in the sea as a mermaid to gain a human soul.

The original story has been a subject of multiple analyses by scholars such as Jacob Bøggild and Pernille Heegaard, as well as the folklorist Maria Tatar. These analyses cover various aspects of the story, from interpreting the themes to discussing why Andersen chose to write a tragic story with a happy ending. It has been adapted to various media, including musical theatre, anime, ballet, opera, and film. There is also a statue portraying the mermaid in Copenhagen, Denmark, where the story was written and first published.

The Little Mermaid is a 1989 American animated musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The 28th Disney animated feature film, it is loosely based on the 1837 Danish fairy tale of the same name by Hans Christian Andersen. The film was written and directed by John Musker and Ron Clements and produced by Musker and Howard Ashman, who also wrote the film's songs with Alan Menken. Menken also composed the film's score. Featuring the voices of Jodi Benson, Christopher Daniel Barnes, Pat Carroll, Samuel E. Wright, Jason Marin, Kenneth Mars, and Buddy Hackett, The Little Mermaid tells the story of a teenage mermaid princess named Ariel, who dreams of becoming human and falls in love with a human prince named Eric, which leads her to make a magic deal with the sea witch, Ursula, to become human and be with him.

The Little Mermaid was released to theaters on November 17, 1989, to critical acclaim, earning praise for the animation, music, and characters. It was also a commercial success, garnering $84 million at the domestic box office during its initial release, and $235 million in total lifetime gross worldwide. Along with the major success of both Disney's 1986 animated film The Great Mouse Detective  and the 1988 Disney/Amblin live-action/animated film Who Framed Roger Rabbit, The Little Mermaid is given credit for breathing life back into the art of Disney animated feature films after some films produced by Disney were struggling. It also marked the start of the era known as the Disney Renaissance. The film won two Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Original Song ("Under the Sea").

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.19); Background History (14.13); The Little Mermaid Plot Synopsis (15.17); Book Thoughts (21.47); Introducing a Film (58.50); The Little Mermaid (1989) Film Trailer (1:02.28); Lights, Camera, Action (1:03.49); How Many Stars (1:50.42); End Credits (1:52.10); Closing Credits (1:53.48)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  In Harmony by Jodi Benson.  Taken from the Little Mermaid Television Soundtrack.  Copyright 1992 Disney Records.  Kiss The Girl by Ashley Tidsdale.  Taken from The Little Mermaid Soundtrack  Copyright 2006 Disney Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to the Literary License Podcast's "Book to Screen" episode for June! This month, we delve into Ray Bradbury's dark fantasy classic, Something Wicked This Way Comes, and its 1983 Disney film adaptation. Our hosts, Keith Chawgo, Leandro Ghezzi and Vickie Rae are here to explore the eerie allure of Bradbury's tale and the cinematic magic (and challenges) of bringing it to the screen.

Join us as we discuss the novel's poetic prose, its themes of fear, aging, and the battle between good and evil, and how these elements were translated into film. We'll also touch on the movie's production woes, including uncredited script rewrites, extensive reshoots, and the impact of Disney's editing decisions.

In addition to our main discussion, you'll hear our hosts share personal updates, movie recommendations, and reflections on other related works. If you're a fan of Bradbury's work, dark fantasy, or simply love a good book-to-film adaptation story, this episode is not to be missed!

Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia as we uncover the mysteries and magic of Something Wicked This Way Comes.

Journey back to the captivating universe of timeless Doctor Who episodes from 1965 to 1967. Enjoy a nostalgic rollercoaster ride of extra-terrestrial adventures starting with the Daleks Master Plan, characterized by thrilling narratives, unforgettable characters, and an intriguing insight into the series. Relive the memorable performance of our venerated Doctor and delve into the fascinating world of the enigmatic "Master".

Discuss the unforgettable episodes, intriguing characters, and compelling facts about the show. Embark on a conversational journey to explore the enigmatic Mavic Chen, the Galactic Federation's fascinating concept, and the relevance of air purity in the series. Could this be a foreshadowing of climate change issues? Find your seat in this engaging conversation that explores the swinging sixties charm and magic of Doctor Who.

Discover the incredible popularity and lasting legacy of Doctor Who, where our speakers delve into viewer ratings and share nostalgic moments. Uncover how the series made its way into schools and captivated millions globally. Learn about the innovative filming techniques of the 60s that brought Doctor Who's universe to life, presenting a detailed narrative of the profound plot lines hidden in the Doctor's adventures.

End your journey by exploring the controversial use of historic footage in the series and the narratives surrounding our favorite characters. Engage with our panelists as they review the episodes and discuss the debuts of series greats like Michael Sheard and Roy Skelton. Stay tuned for final thoughts on standout moments, detailed ratings, and exciting social media updates. Dive into this vivid feast of Doctor Who memories today!

Deliverance (1972)

Deliverance is a 1972 American survival thriller film produced and directed by John Boorman, and starring Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, and Ronny Cox, with the latter two making their feature film debuts. The screenplay was adapted by James Dickey from his 1970 novel of the same name. The film was a critical and box office success, earning three Academy Award nominations and five Golden Globe Award nominations.  Widely acclaimed as a landmark picture, the film is noted for a music scene near the beginning, with one of the city men playing "Dueling Banjos" on guitar with a banjo-picking country boy, and for its notorious, violent, brutal sodomy rape scene. In 2008, Deliverance was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

Race With The Devil (1973)

Race with the Devil is a 1975 American action horror film directed by Jack Starrett, written by Wes Bishop and Lee Frost, and starring Peter Fonda, Warren Oates, Loretta Swit, and Lara Parker. This was the second of three films Fonda and Oates would star in together (The Hired Hand, 1971) was their first, and 92 in the Shade (1975) was their third). Race with the Devil is a hybrid of the horror, action, and car chase genres.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.04); Background History (20.15); Deliverance (1972) Film Trailer (21.45); The Original (24.37); Let's Rate (57.29); Introducing the Double Feature (1:02.27); Race With The Devil (1973) Film Trailer (1:03.30); The Attraction (1:05.30); How Many Stars (1:51.31); End Credits (1:58.50); Closing Credits (2:00.23)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Take Me Home, Country Roads by Olivia Newton John.  Taken from the album Let Me Be There.  Copyright 1973 Festival Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Halloween (1978)

Halloween is a 1978 American independent slasher film directed and scored by John Carpenter, co-written with producer Debra Hill, and starring Jamie Lee Curtis (in her film debut) and Donald Pleasence, with P. J. Soles and Nancy Kyes appearing in supporting roles. The plot centers around a mental patient, Michael Myers, who was committed to a sanatorium for murdering his babysitting teenage sister on Halloween night when he was six years old. Fifteen years later, he escapes and returns to his hometown, where he stalks a female babysitter and her friends, while under pursuit by his psychiatrist.

Halloween (2007)

Halloween is a 2007 American slasher film written, directed, and produced by Rob Zombie. The film is a remake of the 1978 horror film of the same name and the ninth instalment in the Halloween franchise. The film stars Tyler Mane as the adult Michael Myers, Malcolm McDowell as Dr. Sam Loomis, Scout Taylor-Compton as Laurie Strode, and Daeg Faerch as the young Michael Myers. Rob Zombie's "reimagining" follows the premise of John Carpenter's original, with Michael Myers stalking Laurie Strode and her friends on Halloween night.  Working from Carpenter's advice to "make [the film] his own”, Zombie chose to develop the film as both an origin story and a remake, allowing for more original content than simply re-filming the same scenes. Despite mixed reviews, the film, which cost $15 million to make, went on to gross $80.3 million worldwide in unadjusted U.S. dollars. Zombie followed the film with a sequel, Halloween II, in 2009.

We are joined by C Derrick Miller, author, director and scriptwriter. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (.38); Background History (15.39); Halloween (1977) Film Trailer (17.31); The Original (20.20); Let's Rate (1:07.14); Introducing the Double Feature (1:16.54); Halloween (2007) Film Trailer (1:18.09); The Attraction (1:20.05); How Many Stars (2:19.58); Overall Thoughts (2:31.38); End Credits (2:36.51); Closing Credits (2:32.34)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Don’t Fear the Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult.  Taken from the album Agents of Fortune.  Copyright 1976 Columbia Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

In this enthralling episode of the Literary License Podcast, join host Joe Randazzo and guests as they navigate the fascinating journey from classic literary anthologies to their modern interpretations in film and TV. Get in-depth insights into two iconic anthology films 'Dr. Terror's House of Horrors' and 'Torture Garden', exploring their distinctive narrative techniques and enduring influence.

Apart from these films, our hosts share personal anecdotes and experiences around popular culture, home-cooked food, and Italian cuisine. They also delve into the enriching cinematic world, discussing movies old and new, memorable movie outings, and the indelible impact of stars like Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra.

The conversation extends to terrifying tales of horror, as the hosts dissect stories set in different locations, like a crypt, a train, and a carnival. Uncover the chilling narratives of 'The Voodoo', 'The Disembodied Hand', and 'The Creeping Vine'.

Finally, immerse yourself in an insightful analysis of the legacy left by Amicus and Hammer Films, particularly how their works have permanently shaped the horror genre. Conclude your journey with a careful dissection of 'Torture Garden', weighing the performances, the script, and the menacing aura the film exudes.

Tune into this literary pilgrimage that weaves between the world of horror storytelling, film history, and film criticism. It offers you a multi-faceted glimpse into film artistry and legacy, guaranteed to entertain and educate in equal measures.

Welcome to another riveting episode of the Literary License Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of dark family films. In this Season 7 retrospective, our panel of film aficionados embark on a thrilling journey to dissect and discuss captivating movie narratives like "Return to Oz" and "Oz the Great and Powerful".

Listen to our in-depth discussions as we delve into topics ranging from film analysis to the scrutiny and dissection of film elements to provide valuable insights. Explore the behind-the-scenes of serious film criticism and learn about the challenges of watching films, 15 seconds at a time.

Immerse yourself in a comprehensive discussion about the iconic director, David Lynch. Discover his distinctive work and join us in exploring the haunting world of Dorothy Gale in "Return to Oz".

Join us as we analyze and speculate about unasked questions about popular characters' actions and intentions, compelling you to return to this beloved childhood tale with fresh eyes. It's a fascinating journey through a timeless classic story that continues to captivate audiences.

Get ready to dive into the captivating and haunting world of children's films with 'Return to Oz'. We discuss how this timeless classic closely resembles the book's illustrations and touch upon societal concerns in the mid-80s and how they impacted the reception of darker children's movies.

Wrapping up this profound exploration of cinematic artistry and storytelling, we invite you to tune in for an episode that truly delves into the complex and ever-evolving cosmos of films that continue to captivate audiences through mesmerizing tales of fantasy and reality.

Description:

Welcome to the exciting world of "Unraveling the Shadows". In this captivating podcast episode, we embark on a thorough exploration of anthology films from the past. Join our delightful hosts, Vicki Rae, Joe Randazzo and Keith Chawgo, as they dig into classic horror narratives like "The House That Dripped Blood" (1971) and "Asylum" (1972). Swim through the deep seas of our hosts' knowledge as they assess film elements, character complexities, and peculiar plot developments.

Continuing the journey, they offer a rich discourse on hypothetical character transformations, analyze the enigma of pre-existing evil, and articulate their perspectives on fascinating stories within the mansion. Together we question, does villainy come from nature or nurture? What would happen if we showed compassion toward villains? Our hosts will navigate these intriguing discussions and much more!

We also go a step further, remarking on the mesmerizing performances, remarkable filmmaking techniques, and the evolution of the horror genre. We, as a team, go beyond the surface level and delve into the complex details of storytelling that make British anthology horror unique and delightfully gripping.

Shifting gears towards retail practices, we compare brick-and-mortar stores with the Amazon era, and appreciate the progression brought by new establishments. On the film front, we indulge in nostalgia as we discuss Peter Cushing's amazing film career, Charlotte Rampling's acting prowess, and the creepily creative elements of "Mannequins of Horror".

Last but not least, we offer an intriguing analysis of the unforgettable horror film 'Asylum'. Tune in as we unravel every eyebrow-raising ending, spine-chilling theme, and arresting performance. Despite its questionable logic, 'Asylum' leaves an indelible mark on the canvas of horror cinema, thanks largely to its ingenious storytelling!

Don't miss out on this fascinating journey filled with villains, terrifying tales, deep insights, and a touch of dark humor. Join us today at "Unraveling the Shadows" and delve into the mysterious realm of anthology horror!

Join us on the Literary License Podcast as we delve deeper into the intriguing world of dark family films. In this episode, we discuss the engrossing narratives of two cinematic masterpieces, "Dark Crystal" and "Labyrinth". These films, defined by their potent fusion of the gruesome with the stunning, encourage children to explore narratives that are often deeply symbolic and spiritual.

Listen in as we shed light on the intricate puppetry and artistry in "Dark Crystal", a dark fantasy film directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz. Despite initially receiving mixed reviews, the richly textured plot, distinctive aesthetic, and well-rounded characters have cultivated a passionate following over time. Journey with us as we uncover this captivating blend of artistry and story-telling.

As the conversation progresses, we get lost in the fantastical world of "Labyrinth", another ingenious collaboration between Henson and renowned fantasy illustrator Brian Froud. From Froud’s unique faerie and dwarf designs to Henson’s visionary puppetry, we discuss how these creative forces created inviting worlds for children to delve into the symbolic and profound aspects of the narratives.

Dive into rich, thought-provoking discussions on these two films with us. From Vicky Ray's first reactions to "The Dark Crystal" to insights from Joe Randazzo on the depths of puppetry as an art form, our team promises to bring fresh perspectives and interesting trivia. Hit play, sit back, and let us take you on an unexpected journey into the weird and wonderful world of dark fantasy films.

The Sensorites

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20 June – 1 August 1964

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan Foreman and her teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright visit a planet known as the Sense-Sphere to find the cure to a disease afflicting the alien race the Sensorites.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (8.22); Let's Discuss (11.44); The Best and the Worse (27.43); Let's Rate (36.05); Tune In Next Time (41.28); Closing Credits (44.35)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Senses Working Overtime by XTC.  Taken from the album English Settlement.  Copyright 1981 Virgin Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:  Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle

            Stop Café

            By Fannie Flagg

Film:  Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle

           Stop Café (1991)

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is a 1987 novel by American author Fannie Flagg. Set in Alabama, it weaves together the past and the present through the blossoming friendship between Evelyn Couch, a middle-aged housewife, and Ninny Threadgoode, an elderly woman who lives in a nursing home. Every week Evelyn visits Ninny, who recounts stories of her youth in Whistle Stop, Alabama, where her sister-in-law, Idgie, and her friend, Ruth, ran a café. These stories, along with Ninny's friendship, enable Evelyn to begin a new, satisfying life while allowing the people and stories of Ninny's youth to live on. The book explores themes of family, aging, lesbianism, and the dehumanizing effects of racism on both black and white people.

Fried Green Tomatoes is a 1991 American comedy-drama film directed by Jon Avnet and based on Fannie Flagg's 1987 novel Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe. Written by Flagg and Carol Sobieski, and starring Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Mary Stuart Masterson, Mary-Louise Parker and Cicely Tyson, the film tells the story of a housewife who, unhappy with her life, befriends an elderly lady in a nursing home and is enthralled by the tales she tells of people she used to know.  The film was released in theaters in the United States on December 27, 1991, garnered positive reviews from critics and was a box office hit, grossing $119.4 million on a $11 million budget. It was nominated for two Oscars at the 64th Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actress (Tandy) and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.29); Background History (11.59); Plot Synopsis (13.19); Book Thoughts(17.57); Let's Rate (1:06.57); Amazing Design Advertisement (16.47); Introducing a Film (1:17.57); Film Trailer (1:18.47); Lights, Camera, Action (1:21.14); How Many Stars (1:59.03); End Credits (2:09.17); Closing Credits (2:11.19)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Count On Me by Bruno Mars.  Taken from the album Doo-Wops and Hooligans.  Copyright 2011 Atlantic/Warner Music.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:    We Need to Talk About Kevin

     By Lionel Shriver

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Film:      We Need to Talk About Kevin (2011)

We Need to Talk About Kevin is a 2003 novel by Lionel Shriver, published by Serpent's Tail, about a fictional school massacre. It is written from the first person perspective of the teenage killer's mother, Eva Khatchadourian, and documents her attempt to come to terms with her psychopathic son Kevin and the murders he committed, as told in a series of letters from Eva to her husband. The novel, Shriver's seventh, won the 2005 Orange Prize, a UK-based prize for female authors of any country writing in English. In 2011 the novel was adapted into a film.

We Need to Talk About Kevin is a 2011 psychological thriller drama film directed by Lynne Ramsay from a screenplay she co-wrote with Rory Stewart Kinnear, based on the 2003 novel of the same name by Lionel Shriver. A long process of development and financing began in 2005, with filming commencing in April 2010.  Tilda Swinton stars as the mother of Kevin, struggling to come to terms with her psychopathic son and the horrors he has committed. The film premiered at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and was released in the United Kingdom on 21 October 2011.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.33); Amazing Design Advertisement (24.07); Background History (25.19); Plot Synopsis (26.24); Book Thoughts (32.24); Let's Rate (1:30.21); Introducing a Film (1:33.10); Film Trailer (1:34.34); Lights, Camera, Action (1:36.11); How Many Stars (2:36.00); End Credits (2:49.50); Closing Credits (2:51.34)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  I Don’t Like Mondays by The Boomtown Rats. Taken from the album The Fine Art of Surfacing.  Copyright 1979 Ensign/Columbia Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Salem’s Lot (1979)

Salem's Lot (also known as Salem's Lot: The Movie, Salem's Lot: The Miniseries and Blood Thirst) is a 1979 American miniseries television adaptation of the 1975 horror novel of the same name by Stephen King. Directed by Tobe Hooper and starring David Soul and James Mason, the plot concerns a writer who returns to his hometown and discovers that its citizens are turning into vampires. Salem's Lot combines elements of the vampire film and haunted house subgenres of horror.

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Salem’s Lot (2004)

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Salem's Lot is a 2004 American two-part television miniseries which first aired on TNT on June 20 and ended its run on June 21, 2004. It is the second television adaptation of Stephen King's 1975 vampire novel of the same name and a remake to the first version.  Although the novel and original miniseries were both set in the 1970s, this version updates the story to take place in the 2000s. The story is still set in a small Maine town, but the miniseries was actually shot on location at Creswick and Woodend, in Central Victoria, Australia.

We are joined by JM Robson, author of Three Little Words. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (.39); Background History (25.50); Salem’s Lot (1977) Film Trailer (26.52); The Original (30.10); Let's Rate (1:24.00); Introducing a Remake (1:29.39); Salem’s Lot (2004) Film Trailer (1.30.49); The Remake (1:31.48); How Many Stars (2:02.13); End Credits (2:17.11); Closing Credits (2:18.58)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Once Bitten, Twice Shy by Vesta Williams.  Taken from the album Vesta.  Copyright 1986 A&M Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Batman: The Animated Series

Eternal Youth

Several rich industrialists are invited to the Eternal Youth Health Spa, and that's where they are last seen before disappearing. The only connection: they had something to do with the death of plants. Bruce Wayne also receives an invitation (although it was one of his greedy directors who nearly made the deal to destroy a rainforest before Bruce forced him to shut the operation down), but Alfred and his "lady friend", Maggie, go in his place. When they do not return, Batman is forced to investigate, discovering that the spa is run by Poison Ivy, and that she has been using a formula to turn the industrialists into humanoid trees, including Alfred and Maggie

Perchance of a Dream

Bruce Wayne wakes up one morning to find that his life is completely upside-down: his parents are alive, the Batcave does not exist, Alfred does not remember Robin, and he is engaged to Selina Kyle. However, it doesn't mean that Batman isn't still around, and Bruce starts to wonder what has happened, especially after seeing the characteristics of a dream (such as book and newspaper prints not making sense) inside this new life.

The Cape and the Cowl Conspiracy

Baron Jozek, furious at Batman for humiliating him at a dinner party (over Jozek's underworld connections), hires Josiah Wormwood, a master in setting traps for his victims, to hunt down Batman and bring back the hero's cape and cowl.

The Laughing Fish

Joker creates a toxin that affects only fish, mutating them into Joker fish. Then, he targets innocent men who refuse to copyright his Joker fish. The Joker also captures Harvey Bullock, and Batman must rescue him and foil the Clown Prince of Crime's scheme.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.27); Episode One On Eternal Youth (42.52); Episode Two:  Perchance of a Dream (59.02); Episode Three:  The Cape and Cowl Conspiracy (1:11.12); Episode Four:  The Laughing Fish (1:26.14); Favourite Episode  and Least Episode (1:38.08); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (1:43.13); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:48.18); Closing Credits (1:49.32)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Brave by Sara Bareilles.  Taken from the album – The Blessed Unrest.  Copyright 2013 Epic Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Rescue

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02 - 09 January 1965

On the planet Dido, the Doctor, Ian, and Barbara encounter Vicki and Bennett, two survivors of a space crash who are awaiting a rescue ship. They live in fear of Koquillion, a bipedal inhabitant who is stalking the area. The Doctor enters Bennett's room, and follows a trap door to a temple where he unmasks Koquillion as Bennett. Bennett reveals he killed a crewmember on board the ship and was arrested, but the ship crashed before the crime could be radioed to Earth. He has been using the Koquillion alias so that Vicki would back up his story, and had hoped the planet would be destroyed when his version of events was given. Just as Bennett is about to kill the Doctor, two surviving native Didonians arrive and force Bennett to his death over a ledge. With no living family and nothing left for her on Dido, Vicki is welcomed aboard the TARDIS.

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The Romans

16 January – 6 February 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his new companion Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) investigate intrigue surrounding the death of a lyre player en route to perform at the palace of Nero (Derek Francis) in Rome, while companion Ian Chesterton (William Russell) travels to Nero's palace to save his fellow schoolteacher Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), who had been sold to Nero's wife Poppaea (Kay Patrick) as a slave.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.27); Background History:  The Rescue (4.57); The Rescue: Plot Synopsis (5.22); Let's Discuss (7.43); Overall Thoughts (15.39); Let's Rate (17.10); Background History:  The Romans (19.38 ); The Romans:  Plot Synopsis (19.57); Let’s Discuss (22.52); Let’s Rate (34.18); Tune In Next Time (35.30); Closing Credits (37.11)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Rescue Me by OneRepublic.  Taken from the album Human.  Copyright 2019 Interscope/Motley Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

West Side Story (1961)

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West Side Story is a 1961 American musical romantic drama film directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins. With a screenplay by Ernest Lehman, the film is an adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same title, which in turn was inspired by Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet. It stars Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno, and George Chakiris, and was photographed by Daniel L. Fapp in Super Panavision 70. The music was composed by Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.  Released on October 18, 1961, through United Artists, the film received high praise from critics and viewers, and became the highest-grossing film of 1961. It was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 10, including Best Picture (in addition to a special award for Robbins), becoming the record holder for the most wins for a musical.

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West Side Story (2021)

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West Side Story is a 2021 American musical romantic drama film directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Tony Kushner. It is the second feature-length adaptation of the 1957 stage musical of the same name.It stars Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler in her film debut with Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist, and Rita Moreno in supporting roles. Moreno, who starred in the 1961 film adaptation, also served as an executive producer alongside Kushner.[3] The film features music composed by Leonard Bernstein with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.  The film entered development in 2014 at 20th Century Fox; Kushner began writing the screenplay in 2017. In January 2018, Spielberg was hired and casting began that September. Justin Peck choreographed the dance sequences. Principal photography occurred in New York and New Jersey; filming began in July 2019 and ran for two months.  The film was a box office bomb losing over $100million dollars at the box office.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (28.20); West Side Story (1961) Film Trailer (30.07); The Original (34.04); Let's Rate (1:55.39); Amazing Design Advertisement (2:06.54); Introducing a Remake (2:08.06); West Side Story (2021) Film Trailer (2:10.10); The Remake (2:12.25); How Many Stars (3:2128); End Credits (3:48.15); Closing Credits (3:50.01)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Welcome Christmas – performed by the MGM Chorus.  Taken from the 1966 How The Grinch Stole Christmas Television Soundtrack.  Copyright 1966 Leo The Lion Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Trick 'r Treat is a 2007 American anthology horror comedy film written and directed by Michael Dougherty and produced by Bryan Singer. The film stars Dylan Baker, Rochelle Aytes, Anna Paquin and Brian Cox. It relates four Halloween horror stories with a common element in them: Sam, a trick-or-treating demon wearing orange footie pajamas with a burlap sack over his head. The character makes an appearance in each of the stories whenever one of the other characters breaks a Halloween tradition.

Despite being delayed for two years and having only a limited number of screenings at film festivals, the film received much critical acclaim and has since garnered a strong cult following.

Tales of Halloween is a 2015 American comedy horror anthology film consisting of ten interlocking segments, each revolving around the titular holiday. Segments were directed by Neil Marshall, Darren Lynn Bousman, Axelle Carolyn, Lucky McKee, Andrew Kasch, Paul Solet, John Skipp, Adam Gierasch, Jace Anderson, Mike Mendez, Ryan Schifrin, Dave Parker and, in his film debut, Jack Dylan Grazer.

The film premiered on July 24, 2015, at the Fantasia International Film Festival, before receiving a limited theatrical release and through video on demand on October 16, 2015, by Epic Pictures.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.00); Background History (43.50); Trick ‘R Treat (2009) Film Trailer (45.33); Featuring the Presentation (48.07); Let's Rate (1:19.42); Introducing a Film (1:26.34); Tales of Halloween (2015) Film Trailer (1:26.57); Lights, Camera, Action (1:29.02); How Many Stars (2:08.17); End Credits (2:18.01); Closing Credits (2:20.35)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Everyday Is Halloween by LVCRFT, From the album V. Copyright 2023 Spooky Never Sleeps

Buy the Track or Album Here:  Everyday Is Halloween | LVCRFT (bandcamp.com)

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Paging The Crime Doctor

Dr Matthew Thorne, a formerly respectable surgeon who lost his license after sheltering his brother Rupert Thorne from the police and once a friend of Dr Thomas Wayne and Leslie Thompkins, is reduced to acting as a mob doctor.  When Rupert is critically injured, his brother coerces Leslie to assist with the surgery.  But the recovering mob boss wants no witnesses, and Mathew is forced to decide where his real loyalties lie. 

Zatanna

Zatanna was the daughter of Zatara, an excellent magician who taught Bruce Wayne, under the name of “John Smith”, everything he knows about escape artistry and “magic”.  Zatara was a world renowned magician and was considered quite possibly the best in his field.  He also passed on his teachings to his only child, a daughter named Zatanna.  Zatanna gained her talent from her father and became an excellent magician herself.

She also had a romantic relationship with Bruce, despite never knowing his real name.  Zatanna always had close ties with Bruce Wayne, although Bruce was cautious of this relationship by never giving her his real name.

Years later in a show in Gotham City, she made the contents of the Gotham Mint disappear to show up magic debunker Montaque Kane.  Unfortunately for her, Kane had not only seen through her trick, but was a thief, and stole the money while framing her for the crime.  She was freed from custody and assisted Batman in bringing Kane to justice.

After their collaboration with Batman, she eventually recognised him as her old friend from long ago.  she then told Batman that Zatara, who had passed away by this stage would have been proud of him, putting his arts to use in fighting crime.

The Mechanic

Thanks to a freak accident during a high-speed chase, the Batmobile is virtually demolished.  After Batman takes the car to his personal mechanic, Earl Cooper, the Penguin makes his move and tampers with the Batmobile, putting it under his control. 

Harley and Ivy

After a failed heist, a frustrated Joker boots Harley Quinn from his gang and to prove her worth to the Clown Prince of Crime, Harley goes solo on her own crimes.  This path eventually leads her to form a partnership with fellow criminal Poison Ivy.  The success of Harley and Ivy as the new “Queens of Crime” doesn’t go unnoticed by The Joker, or Batman, both of whom set out to stop the amazing duo for their own personal reasons, Little do they know, no man can stop Harley and Ivy.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Episode One:  Paging the Crime Doctor (36.20); Episode Two:  Zatana (45.50); Episode Three:  The Mechanic (1:04.50); Episode Four:  Harley and Ivy (1:13.52); Favourite Episode:  (1:52.53); End Credits (1:55.30); Closing Credits (1:56.46)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves by Aretha Franklin and The Eurythmics.  Taken from the album Be Yourself Tonight by The Eurythmics.  Copyright 1985 RCA Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Double Indemnity (1944)

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Double Indemnity is a 1944 American crime film noir directed by Billy Wilder, co-written by Wilder and Raymond Chandler, and produced by Buddy DeSylva and Joseph Sistrom. The screenplay was based on James M. Cain's 1943 novel of the same title, which appeared as an eight-part serial for the Liberty magazine in February 1936.  The film stars Fred MacMurray as an insurance salesman, Barbara Stanwyck as a provocative housewife who is accused of killing her husband, and Edward G. Robinson as a claims adjuster whose job is to find phony claims. The term "double indemnity" refers to a clause in certain life insurance policies that doubles the payout in cases when the death is accidental.  Praised by many critics when first released, the film was nominated for seven Academy Awards but did not win any. Widely regarded as a classic, it often is cited as having set the standard for film noir.

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Basic Instinct (1992)

Basic Instinct is a 1992 neo-noir erotic thriller film directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Joe Eszterhas. The film follows San Francisco police detective Nick Curran (Michael Douglas), who is investigating the brutal murder of a wealthy rock star. During the investigation, Curran becomes involved in a torrid and intense relationship with the prime suspect, Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone), an enigmatic writer.  Eszterhas developed the script in the 1980s. It became a subject of a bidding war until Carolco Pictures acquired the rights to the film. From there, Verhoeven signed on to direct and Douglas and Stone joined the project, after many actresses were considered for the role of Tramell. Before its release, Basic Instinct generated controversy due to its overt sexuality and violence, including a rape scene. Gay rights activists criticized the film's depiction of homosexual relationships and the portrayal of a bisexual woman as a murderous psychopath. In one scene, Stone's vulva was filmed as she crossed her legs, which she claimed was done without her knowledge, a claim denied by the director.  There are several cuts available. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Amazing Design Advertisement (20.54); Background History (22.06); Double Indemnity (1944) Film Trailer (23.41); The Original (25.54); Let's Rate (1:19.08); Introducing the Double Feature (1:36.27); Basic Instinct (1992) Film Trailer (1:39.07); The Attraction (1:41.16); How Many Stars (2:37.14); End Credits (2:41.56); Closing Credits (2:43.10)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Man Smart, Women Smarter – by Harry Belafonte. Taken from the album Calypso.  Copyright 1955 RCA Victor

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Internal Affairs (2002) (Hong Kong)

Infernal Affairs is a 2002 Hong Kong action thriller film co-directed by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak. Jointly written by Mak and Felix Chong, it stars Andy Lau, Tony Leung, Anthony Wong, Eric Tsang, Sammi Cheng and Kelly Chen. The film follows an undercover Hong Kong Police Force officer who infiltrates a Triad, and another officer who is secretly a spy for the same Triad. It is the first in the Infernal Affairs series and is followed by Infernal Affairs II and Infernal Affairs III. The film was selected as the Hong Kong entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 76th Academy Awards but was not nominated. Miramax Films acquired the United States distribution rights and gave it a limited US theatrical release in 2004. 

The Departed (2006)

The Departed is a 2006 American epic crime thriller film directed by Martin Scorsese and written by William Monahan.  It is both a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs and also loosely based on the real-life Boston Winter Hill Gang; the character Colin Sullivan is based on the corrupt FBI agent John Connolly, while the character Frank Costello is based on Irish-American gangster Whitey Bulger.  The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson, and Mark Wahlberg, with Martin Sheen, Ray Winstone, Vera Farmiga, and Alec Baldwin in supporting roles.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (11.49); Infernal Affairs (2002) Film Trailer (14.13); The Original (16.13); Let's Rate (34.13); Introducing the Double Feature (39.43); The Departed (2009) Film Trailer (41.58); The Attraction (44.22); How Many Stars (1:13.11); End Credits (1:20.49); Closing Credits (1:21.54)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Believer by The Imagine Dragons.  Taken from the album Evolve.  Copyright 2017 Interscope Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Cannibal the Musical (1993)

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Cannibal! The Musical (originally known as Alferd Packer: The Musical) is a 1993 American black comedy musical film directed, written, produced, co-scored by and starring Trey Parker in his directorial debut while studying at the University of Colorado at Boulder, before reaching fame with South Park alongside his friend Matt Stone who also stars in and produced the film. It is loosely based on the true story of Alferd Packer and the sordid details of the trip from Utah to Colorado that left his five fellow travelers dead and partially eaten. Trey Parker (credited as Juan Schwartz) stars as Alferd Packer, with frequent collaborators Stone, Dian Bachar, and others playing the supporting roles.  A live staged version was performed at Sierra College, in Rocklin, California, in May 1998. It was followed by Dad's Garage Theater, Atlanta Georgia, in the fall of 1998. The Dad's Garage version is highlighted in the special features of Troma's DVD release of the movie. The show has continued to find small theaters and audiences across America and beyond for many years. In 2001, a production was staged Off-Broadway at the Kraine Theater on East 4th Street in New York.  A large-scale stage production was produced by The Rival Theatre Company at the 2008 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It featured West End performers. It was executive produced by Jason McHugh and directed by Frazer Brown

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Eating Raoul (1982)

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Eating Raoul is a 1982 American black comedy film written, directed by and starring Paul Bartel with Mary Woronov, Robert Beltran, Ed Begley Jr., Buck Henry, and Susan Saiger. It is about a prudish married couple (Bartel and Woronov) who resort to killing and robbing affluent swingers to earn money for their dream restaurant. The writers commissioned a single-issue comic book based on the film for promotion; it was created by underground comix creator Kim Deitch.  It would also become a hit off Broadway musical.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Amazing Design Advertisement (52.51); Background History (54.04); Eating Raoul Film Trailer (54.49); The Original (56.25); Let's Rate (1:42.42); Introducing the Double Feature (1:48.50); Cannibal – The Musical Film Trailer (1:51.11); The Attraction (1:52.53); How Many Stars (2:35.19); Over All Thought (2:36.09) End Credits (2:41.52; Closing Credits (2:43.21)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Eat Me – Demi Lovatto Featuring Ryan and Serpent. -. Taken from the forthcoming album ‘Holy Fvck’.  Copyright 2022 Island Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used With Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Mummy (1932)

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The Mummy is a 1932 pre-code American supernatural horror film directed by Karl Freund and stars Boris Karloff.  In the film, Karloff stars as an ancient Egyptian mummy named Imhotep, who is discovered by a team of archaeologists and inadvertently brought back to life by a magic scroll being read aloud. Disguised as a modern Egyptian named Ardeth Bey, Imhotep searches for his lost love, who he believes has been reincarnated as a modern girl.  In recent times, the film has drawn criticisms for orientalism and the “othering” of Egyptian culture.

The Mummy (1999)

The Mummy, the 1999 American fantasy action-adventure film is a remake of the 1932 film starring Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, John Hannah and  Kevin J O’Connor.  he film follows adventurer Rick O'Connell as he travels to Hamunaptra, the City of the Dead, with a librarian and her older brother, where they accidentally awaken Imhotep, a cursed high priest with supernatural powers.  The film would spawn three sequels and be a box office success making over $416.4million worldwide. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Background History (20.03); The Mummy (1932) Film Trailer (21.44); The Original (23.18); Amazing Design Advertisement (52.37); Introducing a Remake (53.49); The Mummy (1999) Film Trailer (55.36); The Remake (57.43); How Many Stars (2.05.29); End Credits (2:20.01); Closing Credits (2:21.37)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  The Mummy Song (Egyptian Trilogy 1) by Colin Buchanan.  Taken from the album I Want My Mummy.  Copyright 1993 Wanaaring Road Music.. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:  Beloved

            By Toni Morrison

Film: Beloved (1998)

Beloved is a 1987 novel by the American writer Toni Morrison. Set after the American Civil War, it tells the story of a family of formerly enslaved people whose Cincinnati home is haunted by a malevolent spirit. Beloved is inspired by an event that actually happened: Margaret Garner, an enslaved person in Kentucky, who escaped and fled to the free state of Ohio in 1856. She was subject to capture in accordance with the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850; when U.S. marshals burst into the cabin where Garner and her husband had barricaded themselves, she was attempting to kill her children, and had already killed her two-year-old daughter, to spare them from being returned to slavery.  Morrison had come across an account of Garner titled "A Visit to the Slave Mother who Killed Her Child" in an 1856 newspaper article published in the American Baptist, and reproduced in The Black Book, a miscellaneous compilation of black history and culture that Morrison edited in 1974.

Beloved is a 1998 American psychological horror drama film directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, and Thandiwe Newton. Based on Toni Morrison's 1987 novel of the same name, the plot centers on a former slave after the American Civil War, her haunting by a poltergeist, and the visitation of her reincarnated daughter.  Despite being a box office bomb Beloved received an Oscar nomination for Best Costume Design for Colleen Atwood, the film received mostly positive reviews, and both Danny Glover and Kimberly Elise received praise for their performances.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.30); Background History (21.42); Plot Synopsis (23.37); Book Thoughts(28.10); Let's Rate (56.09); Introducing a Film (58.22); Film Trailer (59.35); Lights, Camera, Action (1:01.35); How Many Stars (1:57.01); End Credits (2:01.20); Closing Credits (2:02.35)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Something In My House by Dead or Alive.  Taken from the album Mad, Bad And Dangerous To Know.  Copyright 1986.  Epic Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used With Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Joker’s Wild

Cameron Kaiser builds a casino hotel modeled after the Joker, called "The Joker's Wild". The Joker sees this on the news and, enraged, escapes from Arkham again, with one thought on his mind: destroying the casino, unaware that this is exactly what Kaiser wants him to do as part of an insurance claim.

Tyger Tyger

Selina Kyle is kidnapped by the villainous genetic engineer Dr. Emile Dorian (a former comrade of Man-Bat) and becomes his latest experiment to provide his man-cat hybrid named Tygrus with a mate. Batman learns of this and comes to the island to rescue Selina. He is captured and forced into a deadly game of cat-and-flying mouse as Tygrus hunts Batman through the island's jungles.

Moon of the Wolf

Batman investigates the appearance of a werewolf-like creature in Gotham, not realizing that the monster happens to be one of Bruce Wayne's associates — Anthony Romulus, ex-Olympic champion. Behind the scheme is twisted chemist Professor Milo.

Day of the Samuri

Kyodai Ken kidnaps Kairi Tanaga, star pupil of Yoru Sensei, the martial arts instructor who taught both Kyodai and Bruce. The ninja's ransom for her is a scroll that teaches the location of the fabled Death Touch.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One Joker’s Wild (52.33); Episode Two:  Tyger Tyger (1:04.14); Episode Three:  Moon of the Wolf (1:13.42); Episode Four:  Day of the Samuri (1:40.41); Favourite Character (1:50.39); Favourite Episode (1:56.01); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:07.09); Closing Credits (2:08.37)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Everybody Wants To Be A Cat by The Sketchy Leg Big Band.  Copyright 2019 The Sketchy Leg Big Band.  (2775) The Stretchy Legs Big Band - Everybody Wants To Be A Cat (from The Aristocats) - YouTube

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Join us in a thrilling expedition to 1965-1967, as we dive into BBC's iconic sci-fi series - Doctor Who. We present a detailed review of the revered episode 'The Dalek Invasion of Earth, 2150 AD,' an enthralling piece of cinema that withstands the test of

time. In this episode, we unpack the gripping story where Earth faces a dystopian future, reigned by merciless Daleks and humanity transformed into Robo-men. Amid the chaotic world stands our heroes led by legendary Peter Cushing, battling off the metal monsters.

Not only does this vintage film present spellbinding performances, it is a delightful blend of comedy, action, and emotion that keeps viewers riveted. The narration enhances the cinematic experience by creating moments of introspection, adding an unexpected touch of humor and showing creativity in design and special effects. The storytelling technique used ensures a captivating experience for Doctor Who fans, from beginning till end.

As part of our review, we also cover the evolution of early Doctor Who films, highlighting how the Amicus Films shaped the franchise. We assess the financial growth of the company and its impact on the production quality, transitioning from low-budget movies to striking partnerships with big names in the industry. We delve into the influence of Bernard Cribbins' character and Peter Cushing's portrayal of the doctor, and discuss the fluctuating comedy element throughout the series.

Explore trivia about iconic movies, the dynamic performances of Peter Cushing, Andrew Keir and more. Learn fun facts about production impromptu, last-minute script changes, and on-set accidents that add an intriguing layer to the conversation. Additionally, we take a look at our panellists' upcoming projects, making this episode a delightful mix of vintage cinema and contemporary works. This Podcast episode, filled with stimulating discussions and insightful critiques, is a must-listen for all cinema lovers!

Book: Lovely Bones

           By Alice Sebold

Film: Lovely Bones (2009)

The Lovely Bones is a 2002 novel by American writer Alice Sebold. It is the story of a teenage girl who, after being raped and murdered, watches from her personal Heaven as her family and friends struggle to move on with their lives while she comes to terms with her own death. The novel received critical praise and became an instant bestseller. A film adaptation, directed by Peter Jackson, who personally purchased the rights, was released in 2009. The novel was also later adapted as a play of the same name, which premiered in England in 2018.

The Lovely Bones is a 2009 supernatural thriller drama film directed by Peter Jackson from a screenplay he co-wrote with Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens. It is based on Alice Sebold's 2002 novel of the same name and stars Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci, Michael Imperioli, and Saoirse Ronan. The plot follows a girl who is murdered and watches over her family from "the in-between" and is torn between seeking vengeance on her killer and allowing her family to heal.  An international co-production between the United States, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, the film was produced by Carolynne Cunningham, Walsh, Jackson, and Aimee Peyronnet, with Steven Spielberg, Tessa Ross, Ken Kamins, and James Wilson as executive producers. Principal photography began in October 2007 in New Zealand and Pennsylvania. The film's score was composed by Brian Eno.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.32); Background History (6.47); Lovely Bones Plot Synopsis (7.46); Book Thoughts (12.10); Let's Rate (33.21); Introducing a Film (36.46); Lovely Bones Film Trailer (38.55); Lights, Camera, Action (41.16); How Many Stars (1:04.25); End Credits (1:06.15); Closing Credits (1:07.40)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Now You Belong To Heaven by Mari Olsen.  Copyright 2008 Mari Olsen Onsøien

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:   We Have Always Lived in The Castle

     By Shirley Jackson

Film:   We Have Always Live in the Castle

   (2018)

We Have Always Lived in the Castle is a 1962 mystery novel by American author Shirley Jackson. It was Jackson's final work, and was published with a dedication to Pascal Covici, the publisher, three years before the author's death in 1965. The novel is written in the voice of eighteen-year-old Mary Katherine "Merricat" Blackwood, who lives with her sister and uncle on an estate in Vermont. Six years before the events of the novel, the Blackwood family experienced a tragedy that left the three survivors isolated from their small village.  The novel was first published in hardcover in North America by Viking Press, and has since been released in paperback and as an audiobook and e-book.[2] It has been described as Jackson's masterpiece.

We Have Always Lived in the Castle is a 2018 American mystery thriller film directed by Stacie Passon, written by Mark Kruger, and starring Taissa Farmiga, Alexandra Daddario, Crispin Glover, and Sebastian Stan. It was based on the 1962 novel of the same name by Shirley Jackson.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2:31); Amazing Design Advertisement ( 19.14); Background History (20.26); Plot Synopsis (21.26); Book Thoughts (25.32); Let's Rate (1:07.56); Introducing a Film (1:16.06); We Have Always Lived In The Castle Film Trailer (1:17.11); Lights, Camera, Action (1:19.02); How Many Stars (1:59.49); End Credits (2:04.39); Closing Credits (2:06.26)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  I’ll Be Home For Christmas by Elvis Presley and Carrie Underwood.  Taken from the album Christmas Duets.  Copyright 2008 RCA Victor Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Uncanny is a 1977 British-Canadian anthology horror film directed by Denis Héroux, written by Michel Parry, and starring Peter Cushing, Donald Pleasence, Ray Milland, Joan Greenwood, Donald Pilon, Samantha Eggar, and John Vernon.

Although it is similar to the horror anthologies released by Amicus Productions and could be mistaken as one, it was actually distributed by The Rank Organisation. However, the co-producer was Milton Subotsky of Amicus.

Cat's Eye (also known as Stephen King's Cat's Eye) is a 1985 American anthology horror thriller film directed by Lewis Teague and written by Stephen King. It comprises three stories, "Quitters, Inc.", "The Ledge", and "General". The first two are adaptations of short stories in King's 1978 Night Shift collection, and the third is unique to the film. The three stories are connected only by the presence of a traveling cat, which plays an incidental role in the first two and is a major character of the third.

Its cast includes Drew Barrymore, James Woods, Alan King, Robert Hays and Candy Clark.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.00); Background History (41.36); The Uncanny (1977) Trailer (42.08); Feature Presentation (44.37); Let's Rate (1:21.14); Introducing the Second Feature (1:35.49); Cat’s Eye (1989) Trailer (1:37.12); Lights, Camera, Action (1:38.34); How Many Stars (2:08.26); End Credits (2:26.00); Closing Credits (2:27.28)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Like A Cat by Cyndi Lauper.  From the album A Night To Remember. Copyright 1989 Epic Records

Incidental Music:  Cat’s Eye Soundtrack by Alan Silvestri.  From the album Stephen King’s Cat Eyes Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright 1985 Varese Sarabande.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:  Gone Girl

    By Gillian Flynn

Film:    Gone Girl (2014)

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn was published in June 2012 and become an instant success.  The sense of suspense in the novel would come whether Nick Dunne is responsible for the disappearance of his wife Amy.  The book would be told in three parts changing the point of view between the different parts.

The film, directed by David Fincher and starring Rosamund Pike and Ben Affleck.  Set in Missouri, the story is a postmodern mystery that follows the events surrounding Nick Dunne who becomes the prime suspect in the sudden disappearance of his wife, Amy. The film also stars Neil Patrick Harris and Tyler Perry.  It would be the highest grossing film of David Fincher’s career earning $369million at the box office.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.33); Background History (6.50); Gone Girl Plot Synopsis (7.52); Book Thoughts(14.51); Let's Rate (41.41); Amazing Design Advertisement (42.33); Introducing a Film (43.44); Gone Girl Film Trailer (45.01); Lights, Camera, Action (47.28); How Many Stars (1:24.18); End Credits (1:26.06); Closing Credits (1:27.54)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Bitch by Meredith Brookes.  Taken from the album Blurring the Edges.  Copyright 1997 Capitol-EMI Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission

All songs available through Amazon Music.

BATMAN: The Animated Series

Robin’s Reckoning Part 1

During a fight with some gangsters at a construction yard, Batman and Robin learn the name of their boss: Billy Marin. While Robin looks forward to going up against Marin, Batman becomes distant, and after a falling out at the Batcave, Batman doesn't allow Robin to accompany him on the search for Marin. Robin investigates on the Batcomputer, and soon realizes that Billy Marin is not the boss' real name. Rather, it is an alias of Tony Zucco, the man who killed his parents (which Batman already knew, but chose not to tell Robin).

Robin’s Reckoning Part 2

Angered by Batman's deceit, Robin sets out to find Tony Zucco on his own, all the while plagued by the memories of his parents' death and how Bruce took him in as his own son. Eventually, Batman manages to find Zucco at an old amusement park, but breaks his leg during the fight. Robin finally arrives and prepares to kill Zucco in revenge.

Night of the Ninja

A mysterious ninja is robbing Wayne Enterprises subsidiaries, and Batman discovers that the ninja is actually his equal in combat. A grudge against Bruce Wayne and skills to match him can only mean one person: Kyodai Ken, an old rival of Wayne's teacher from his days in Japan, and who was thrown out of the dojo after attempting to rob it, only to be stopped by Wayne. Ken, it turns out, wants revenge.

Cat Scratch Fever

Batman must stop Roland Daggett's plan to release a viral plague designed by Professor Milo into Gotham by way of its stray cat population. The case gains new urgency when Catwoman becomes infected with the virus during her search for her missing cat, Isis. Now, Batman must find an antidote to save the woman who loves him most.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One Robin’s Reckoning Part 1 & 2 (22.52); Episode Two:  Night of the Ninja (42.33); Episode Three:  Cat Scratch Fever (53.20); Favourite Character (1:06.58); Favourite Episode (1;13.41);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:20.08); Closing Credits (1:21.00)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Boy Wonder, I Love You by Burt Ward and Frank Zappa.  Copyright 1966 MGM Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Be A Clown 

Mayor Hamilton Hill's miserable son, Jordan, becomes even sadder when his father uses his birthday party as a political gathering rather than a normal celebration, and ends up stowing away in the truck of the party clown hired by Hill for the party, whom he doesn't know is actually the Joker in disguise. It is now up to Batman, whom Mayor Hill distrusts, to rescue the boy before it is too late.

Two Face Part 1

Mobster Rupert Thorne attempts to use Harvey Dent's secret split personality to blackmail him. But when Dent meets with Thorne at a chemical plant, "Big Bad Harv" takes over, and the resulting confrontation leads to an explosion that horribly scars half of Dent's face and his entire body.

Two Face Part 2

Harvey Dent, now calling himself Two-Face, resurfaces and starts robbing Rupert Thorne's illegal businesses, preparing for a final confrontation with the crime boss, and Batman must stop his former friend before he and Thorne kill each other.

It’s Never Too Late

A mob war between crime bosses Rupert Thorne and Arnold Stromwell is nearing its end, and comes to a climax when Stromwell is set up to be killed in an exploding restaurant by Thorne. Batman saves him at the last moment, and aided by Stromwell's brother (now a priest who lost his leg years before, an accident for which Stromwell carries a secret guilt), tries to persuade him to give up his life of crime and help the police bring Thorne down by testifying against him.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Amazing Design Advertisement (45.31); Episode One:  Be A Clown (46.42); Episode Two:  Two-Face Part 1 (1:02.15); Episode Three:  Two-Face Part 2 (1:23.59); Episode Four:  It’s Never Too Late (1:48.34); Favourite Character (2:15.33); Favourite Episode (2:30.03); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:34.11); Closing Credits (2:35.46)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  It’s Never Too Late by Kylie Minogue.  Taken from the album Enjoy Yourself.  Copyright 1989 PWL Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

Incidental Music:  Batman: The Animated Series by Shirley Walker. Copyright 1995 Warner Music International.

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Amor De Los Muertos by LVCRFT featuring La Llorona & Devil Dahlia.  Taken from the album Dia De Los Muertos  

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to the Literary License Podcast! This month is Dark Families Month, where we delve into family films with a dark twist. Join us as we explore two intriguing films: The Black Cauldron and The Spiderwick Chronicles.

First, we dive into the 1985 animated classic, The Black Cauldron. Set in a mythical land during the early Middle Ages, this film follows a young swineherder and his companions as they battle the wicked Horned King. We'll discuss the film's beautiful animation, its mixed critical reception, and its impact on Disney's animation department.

Next, we journey through the magical world of The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008). This film, based on the popular book series, features three children who discover a field guide to fairies and encounter various magical creatures. We'll explore the film's visuals, the performances of its cast, and how it stacks up against its source material.

Join hosts Joe and Vicki as they discuss the enchanting darkness of these family films and share their thoughts on what makes them stand out—or fall short. Don't miss this captivating episode filled with fantasy, magic, and insightful commentary!

Join the captivating journey with the Literary License Podcast as we explore vintage and modern films, and delve into meaty discussions about social media's impacting modern society. This season 7 retrospective takes us through family film classics, "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" and "Enchanted," with our humorous hosts, Vicki Rae, Keith Chawgo and John Wilson.

From gleaning insights on popular games to discussing independent films and popular TV series, this episode traverses a variety of topics. Central to the discussion is the critique of social media obsessions and the undeniable charms of classics like "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" and "Enchanted." Take part in this dialogue that balances the exciting and the thought-provoking.

Our discourse on "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" unravels its unique blend of magic, war, and self-discovery, set apart from other Disney productions. We follow the enchanting journey of novice witch Miss Eglantine Price and the lovable con man, Professor Emilius Brown, highlighting significant moments of this live-action and animation production that won the Academy Awards for Best Special Visual Effects.

Journey further into Disney's magical realms as we explore "Enchanted" and its sequel "Disenchanted." Enjoy anecdotes and insights into this brilliant mix of real-world practicality and fairy-tale sweetness. The brilliant star-studded performance, toe-dipping bits into the world of fairy-tales, and shared laughter make this episode an enjoyable ride for every movie lover.

The analysis doesn't stop there. Dive into the magic of "Princess Diaries" and "Enchanted," discussing their musical scores, animation style, and lasting impact. Unwrap these influential tales of princesses and the fantasized version of New York while acknowledging Disney's self-awareness balancing charm and humour.

Tune in as we light-heartedly ponder film critiques, explore the paradox of commercial breaks, and appreciate cinema's enchanting magic. An episode designed for those who appreciate being carried away into whimsical tales and hearty discussions about the digital age's challenges and opportunities.

Opening Credits– Once Upon Theme by Dan Hughes Music Poduction.  Copyright 2024 LLPodcast

Closing Credits: Age of Not Believing by Angela Lansbury.  Taken from the album Bedknobs and Broomsticks Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright 1971 Walt Disney Records

Section Breaks:  Music from Enchanted Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Music by Alan Menken.  Copyright 2007 Walt Disney Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Shadow of the Bat Part 1

When Commissioner Gordon is framed for taking bribes from Rupert Thorne, his daughter Barbara pleads with Batman to show up at a rally being put on in the commissioner’s behalf.  But when Batman disappears after finding the person behind the frame-up.  Barbara takes matters into her own hands as Batgirl.

Shadow of the Bat Part 2

Batman has been captured by Two-Face and his gang, leaving Robin to do the investigating behind Commissioner Gordan’s framing.  However, Robin will find an unusual partner in Batgirl, who is also on the path to clear her father’s name and the information she has uncovered about acting commissioner Gil Mason will help them on their quest. 

Blind As A Bat

In the course of stealing a high-tech military aircraft called the Raven, the Penguin injures Bruce Wayne, causing temporary blindness.  But Batman refuses to sit back while Penguin holds the city hostage, and dons and experimental headset that will allow him to “see” while the battery holds out.

In an intense sky battle that ends with a crash landing, Batman manages to foil the Penquin’s scheme – but his faltering gear leaves him blind once more, attempting to hear his way through a violent confrontation with a muscle-bound good and ultimately the fowl fiend himself.

His Silcone Soul

When a Batman impersonator appears in Gotham City, the real Batman deduces that Karl Rossum is somehow involved and confronts the inventor.  The other Batman, a duplicate, then shows up and a battle between the two takes place.  After the duplicate Batman escapes, it begins its campaign to recreate H.A.R.D.A.C’s goals of a robotic society.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Shadow of the Bat Part 1 & 2 (41.51); Blind As A Bat (55.54); His Silicon Soul (1:14.49); Favourite Episode (1:31.05); End Credits (1:33.14); Closing Credits (1:35.11)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  She’s A Lady by Tom Jones.  Taken from the album Tom Jones Sings She’s A Lady.  Copyright 1971 Decca Records/Parrot Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a British children's television drama first broadcast by the BBC in 1988.   It was the first series of The Chronicles of Narnia that ran from 1988 to 1990.​

Narnia is the home of the great lion Aslan. During his long absence, his arch-enemy, the evil White Witch places Narnia in an eternal winter. However, with the return of Aslan and the arrival of the four Pevensie children, the Narnians are given a hope to end the tyranny of the Witch.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.22); The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe 1988 BBC Trailer (2.24); Lights, Camera, Action (3.02); How Many Stars (16.18); End Credits (18.09); Closing Credits (19.02)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  A Merry Christmas at Grandmother’s by Danny Kaye and The Andrew Sisters.  Taken from the Album Christmas Cheer.  Copyright 1950 Decca Records.

Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Batman:  The Animated Series

Feat of Clay – Part 1

Bruce Wayne is framed for the attempted murder of Lucius Fox. The real perpetrator is an actor and master of disguise named Matt Hagen, who was disfigured in a car accident years ago. In order to keep his fame, he secretly started working for Roland Daggett, who provides him with a monthly supply of an addictive face cream known as Renuyu (a pun on "Renew You") that can temporarily reshape his face back to normal, and who wants to take Wayne Enterprises over for marketing expansion. For botching the murder due to Batman's interference, Hagen's supply is cut off, and when he breaks into Daggett's lab for more Renuyu, he pays the price dearly when Daggett's men drench his face in the formula and force him to swallow liters of it to avoid drowning. Meanwhile, Bruce Wayne is arrested and taken into custody, charged with the assault on Fox.

Feat of Clay – Part 2

Bruce Wayne is released from prison on bail. Hagen, as it turns out, survived the murder attempt on him, but at a high cost: the formula entered his body and soaked every single one of his cells, turning him into a shape-shifting mutant. With his newfound powers, Hagen, now calling himself Clayface, decides to take his revenge on Daggett and his men, and Batman must bring Daggett to justice and stop Clayface before innocent people are hurt.

Vendetta

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Detective Bullock is arrested for kidnapping. Batman, who dislikes Bullock but nevertheless believes him to be a good man, investigates, and discovers the identity of the real criminal: Killer Croc, who harbors a vendetta against Bullock for capturing him once. Batman must clear Bullock's name before it is too late.

Fear of Victory 

The Scarecrow invents a fear chemical that is activated by adrenaline. Then, he uses it to affect the outcome of athletic events. Whenever a single person becomes agitated, the fear chemical kicks in, turning his excitement to fear. The Scarecrow bets against the sports stars' teams as part of his criminal scheme to scare up some quick cash, and Batman and Robin must foil his plot.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One & Two:  Feat of Clay Part 1 & 2 (30.23); Episode Three:  Vendetta (50.50); Episode Four:  Fear of Victory (1:03.05); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:14.57); Favourite Character and Least Favourite Character and Favourite Episode (1:16.09);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:33.15); Closing Credits (1:34.24)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  The Fear by Lily Allen.  Taken from the album It Not Me, It’s You.  Copyright 2007 Regal Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Watership Down is an adventure novel by English author Richard Adams, published by Rex Collings Ltd of London in 1972. Set in Hampshire in southern England, the story features a small group of rabbits. Although they live in their natural wild environment, with burrows, they are anthropomorphised, possessing their own culture, language, proverbs, poetry, and mythology. Evoking epic themes, the novel follows the rabbits as they escape the destruction of their warren and seek a place to establish a new home (the hill of Watership Down), encountering perils and temptations along the way.

Watership Down was Richard Adams' debut novel. It was rejected by several publishers before Collings accepted the manuscript; the published book then won the annual Carnegie Medal (UK), annual Guardian Prize (UK), and other book awards. The novel was adapted into an animated feature film in 1978 and, from 1999 to 2001, an animated children's television series. In 2018, a drama of the story was made, which both aired in the UK and was made available on Netflix.

Adams completed a sequel almost 25 years later, in 1996, Tales from Watership Down, constructed as a collection of 19 short stories about El-ahrairah and the rabbits of the Watership Down warren.

Watership Down is a 1978 British animated adventure-drama film, written, produced and directed by Martin Rosen and based on the 1972 novel by Richard Adams.  It was financed by a consortium of British financial institutions and was distributed by Cinema International Corporation in the United Kingdom. Released on 19 October 1978, the film was an immediate success and it became the sixth-most popular film of 1979 at the UK box office.

It features the voices of John Hurt, Richard Briers, Harry Andrews, Simon Cadell, Nigel Hawthorne and Roy Kinnear, among others, and was the last film work of Zero Mostel, as the voice of Kehaar the gull. The musical score was by Angela Morley and Malcolm Williamson. Art Garfunkel's hit song "Bright Eyes" was written by songwriter Mike Batt. It has garnered a cult following.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.21); Background History (20.15); Watership Down Plot Synopsis (21.57); Book Thoughts (29.16); Let's Rate (50.29); Introducing a Film (52.51); Watership Down Film Trailer (1978) (56.13); Lights, Camera, Action (59.36); How Many Stars (1:40.44); End Credits (1:44.27); Closing Credits (1:45.25)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Bright Eyes from Watership Down by Art Garfunkel.  Taken from the album Fate for Breakfast.  Copyright 1978 Columbia Records. 

Incidental Music:  Music from Watership Down by Angela Morley.  Available on the Watership Down 1978 Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright 1978 Vocation Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Castle Freak (1995)

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Castle Freak is a 1995 American direct-to-video horror film directed by Stuart Gordon. The film stars Jeffrey Combs as John Reilly, an American recovering alcoholic who inherits an Italian castle when a distant relative passes away. John travels to Italy with his estranged wife Susan (Barbara Crampton) and blind daughter Rebecca (Jessica Dollarhide). The three plan to stay at the castle, but unbeknownst to them, a freakish monster locked away in the basement of the castle is about to escape and commit a series of murders. The police place John as the prime suspect, leading him to confront his alcoholism, fight the demon and prove himself innocent. Castle Freak went into production in 1994 after Gordon noticed art for the film in producer Charles Band's office. Gordon agreed to develop the film on Band's condition that the film take place in a castle, contain a freak, and would be shot on a very low budget. Gordon obliged as he would be able to cast who he wanted in the film and would get the final cut. The film was shot in 1994 in a castle owned by Band in Italy, where Gordon had previously shot The Pit and the Pendulum.

Castle Freak (2020)

Castle Freak is a 2020 American direct-to-video horror film that was directed by Tate Steinsiek. It has been billed as a reboot of the 1995 Stuart Gordon film by the same name, which is a loose adaptation of the stories "The Outsider" and "The Dunwich Horror" by H.P. Lovecraft.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.40); Background History (29.18); Castle Freak (1995) Film Trailer (30.35); The Original (32.43); Let's Rate (1:10.15); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:30.27); Introducing a Remake (1:31.38); Castle Freak (2020) Film Trailer (1:32.06); The Remake (1:34.09); How Many Stars (2:18.31); End Credits (2:29.58); Closing Credits (2:31.48)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Freak Like Me by The Sugababes.  Taken from the album Angels With Dirty Faces.  Copyright 2002 Island/Universal Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Terror in the Sky

When a giant-sized bat ransacks Gotham harbor, Batman suspects that Dr. Kirk Langstrom is up to his old tricks, taking the Man-Bat formula again. Batman isn't the only one. Kirk's wife, Francine, is so distrustful of her husband that she decides to leave him. After further investigation, Batman discovers that this Man-Bat is not Kirk, but someone else, and thus he shames Francine's father into permanently destroying the formula.

Almost Got'im

The Joker, Killer Croc, the Penguin, Two-Face, and Poison Ivy all meet at a poker table, each telling a tale of times when they almost defeated Batman. At the same time, Harley Quinn is about to kill Catwoman after she rescued Batman from the Joker's electric chair, and Batman must save her.

Birds of a Feather

Veronica Vreeland is looking for a way to create a splash with her next party, and arrives at the idea of having a former criminal in attendance — especially if there is one whose manners would create a stir. The Penguin, who has recently reformed, fits the bill perfectly. In the process of convincing the Penguin to come to her party, Veronica finds she likes the corpulent little guy. For his part, the Penguin begins to fall in love with her, until he overhears that he is merely being used.

What is Reality?

Seeking to prove once and for all that his is the superior mind, the Riddler lures Batman into a riddle-solving contest inside the virtual reality of a computer game in order to save Commissioner Gordon's life. In the course of solving the riddles and escaping the Riddler's traps, Batman learns that he is able to manipulate the virtual reality landscape much like the Riddler does.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.24); Episode One: Terror In The Skies (57.04); Episode Two:  Almost Got ‘Im (1:04.30); Episode Three:  Birds of a Feather (1:12.19); Episode Four:  What is Reality?  (1:20.15); Favourite Episode (1:28.10); Favourite Character (1:36.40); Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:53.01); Closing Credits (1:53.50)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Alone Pt II by Alan Walker & Ava Max.  Taken from the album World of Walker.  Copyright 2019 MER/Sony Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Pufnstuf (also known as Pufnstuf Zaps the World) is a 1970 American comedy fantasy musical film produced by Sid and Marty Krofft Enterprises and released by Universal Pictures. It is based on the children's television series H.R. Pufnstuf, a show that features a cast of puppets on a "living island."

The NeverEnding Story is a 1984 fantasy film co-written and directed by Wolfgang Petersen (in his first English-language film), and based on the 1979 novel The Neverending Story by Michael Ende. It was produced by Bernd Eichinger and Dieter Giessler, and stars Noah Hathaway, Barret Oliver, Tami Stronach, Patricia Hayes, Sydney Bromley, Gerald McRaney and Moses Gunn, with Alan Oppenheimer providing the voices of Falkor and Gmork (as well as other characters). It follows a boy who finds a magical book that tells of a young warrior who is given the task of stopping the Nothing, a dark force, from engulfing the wonderland world of Fantasia.

At the time of its release, it was the most expensive film produced outside the United States or the Soviet Union. It was the first in The NeverEnding Story film series. It adapts only the first half of the book, and consequently does not convey the message of the title as it was portrayed in the novel. The second half of the book was subsequently used as a rough basis for the second film, The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter (1990). The third film, The NeverEnding Story III: Escape from Fantasia (1994), has an original plot not based on the book.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.22); Background History (13.09); PufnStuf (1970) Trailer (29.44); Our Opening Presentation (16.29); Let's Rate (55.07); Introducing Our Next Feature (1:00.40); NeverEnding Story (1984) Trailer (1:02.11); Lights, Camera, Action (1:03.30); How Many Stars (1:41.31); End Credits (1:49.16); Closing Credits (1:51.23)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  NeverEnding Story by Limahl.  Taken from the album Don’t Suppose.  Copyright 1984 EMI Records/Zap the World by Billie Hayes and Martha Raye.  Taken from the album PufnStuf.  Copyright 1970 Capitol Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Strange Secret of Bruce Wayne

After a prominent judge is injured during a struggle with some thugs demanding money from her in exchange for a strange tape, Bruce Wayne decides to take a trip to Yucca Springs, a resort where the judge had vacationed, and consult Dr. Hugo Strange, a psychiatrist. Bruce soon learns that Strange has invented a machine that extracts people's darkest secrets from their minds and transfers them to videotape — and now Strange has proof of Bruce's secret identity as Batman, and plans to auction it to three of Gotham's prominent crime bosses.

Heart of Steel Part 1

Several robberies take place at major companies, including Wayne Enterprises, and Bruce Wayne, as Batman, discovers the thief to be a mechanical briefcase. Bruce meets with his old friend, Karl Rossum, an expert in robotics who lost his daughter to a vehicle accident years ago. He also meets Rossum's assistant, Randa Duane, and Rossum's ultimate creation: a prototype A.I. known as Holographic Analytical Reciprocating Digital Computer (H.A.R.D.A.C.) Bruce invites Duane to dinner, and around the same time, certain civilians start acting strangely. Most surprising is when Duane unexpectedly leaves Wayne Manor while Bruce is on the phone, and the entire Batcave turns on Batman.

Heart of Steel Part 2

Batman manages to free himself from the Batcave's clutches, and brings it back under his control, although he fails to track Duane down. Barbara Gordon approaches Batman to inform him of her father's sudden change in behavior. A brutal fight between Batman and Detective Bullock ensues, during which Batman pushes Bullock onto the Bat Signal, and reveals him to actually be an android, meaning that the real Bullock and James Gordon have gone missing, and Batman knows who the culprit is: H.A.R.D.A.C. Batman must stop the evil supercomputer before it is too late.

If You’re So Smart, Why Aren’t You Rich

Edward Nygma creates the video game The Riddle of the Minotaur for the company Competitron, but is fired by his superior Daniel Mockridge, who wants the profits for himself. Nygma vows revenge, and takes up the mantle of the Riddler two years later. While Batman sympathizes with Nygma, he and Robin find themselves forced to stop him before he kills Mockridge in a life-sized version of the Minotaur maze. Despite successfully rescuing Mockridge, who complete a deal to move his company to Gotham, the incident leaves him in a permanent PTSD - type all-consuming fear of Nygma's return for revenge.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.28); Episode One: The Strange Case of Bruce Wayne (32.30); Episode Two and Three:  Heart of Steel Part 1 &2 (47.10); Episode Four:  If You Are So Smart; Why Aren’t You Rich (1:14.48); Favourite Episode (1:58.53); Favourite Character (2:03.03);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:03.06); Closing Credits (2:03.46)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Question Me An Answer by Bobby Van.  Taken from the album The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Lost Horizon.  Copyright 1997 Razor & Tie Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:  Flowers in the Attic

             By V C Andrews

Film:    Flowers in the Attic (1987)

Flowers in the Attic is a 1979 Gothic novel by V. C. Andrews. It is the first book in the Dollanganger Series, and was followed by Petals on the Wind, If There Be Thorns, Seeds of Yesterday, Garden of Shadows, Christopher's Diary: Secrets of Foxworth, Christopher's Diary: Echoes of Dollanganger and Christopher's Diary: Secret Brother. The novel is written in the first-person, from the point of view of Cathy Dollanganger. It was twice adapted into films in 1987 and 2014. The book was extremely popular, selling over forty million copies world-wide.

Flowers in the Attic is a 1987 American psychological horror film directed by Jeffrey Bloom and starring Louise Fletcher, Victoria Tennant, Kristy Swanson, and Jeb Stuart Adams. Its plot follows four children who, after the death of their father, are held captive in the attic of their abusive grandmother's sprawling estate by their cruel and manipulative mother. It is based on V. C. Andrews' 1979 novel of the same name. At one point Wes Craven was scheduled to direct the film, and had completed a screenplay draft. Producers were disturbed by his approach to the incest-laden story, however, and Jeffrey Bloom ended up with writing and directing duties.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.30); Background History (13.20); Flowers in the Attic Plot Synopsis (14.25); Book Thoughts(20.23); Let's Rate (41.09); Introducing a Film (54.33); Flowers in the Attic (1987) Film Trailer (55.54); Lights, Camera, Action (57.53); How Many Stars (1:19.18); End Credits (1:24.36); Closing Credits (1:26.13)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Flowers on the Wall by the Statler Brothers.  Taken from the album Flowers On The Wall.  Copyright 1965 Columbia Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Reign of Terror

8 August – 12 September 1964

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan and teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright arrive in France during the period of the French Revolution known as the Reign of Terror, where they become involved with prisoners and English spies.

Two of the six episodes remain missing after the BBC wiped them from archives. It later received several print adaptations and home media releases, with animated versions of the missing episodes constructed using off-air recordings.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Background History (4.32); Plot Synopsis (5.08); Let's Discuss (9.20); Let's Rate (24.28); Tune In Next Time (29.16); Closing Credits (30.53)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Bella Ciao by Nawja.  Copyright  2019 DRO Atlantic

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Where Have All The Cowboys Gone by Paula Cole.  Taken from the album This Fire.  Copyright 1996 Imago/Warner Brothers Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane (1976)

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The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane is a 1976 cross-genre film directed by Nicolas Gessner and starring Jodie Foster, Martin Sheen, Alexis Smith, Mort Shuman, and Scott Jacoby. It was a co-production of Canada and France and written by Laird Koenig, based on his 1974 novel of the same title.  The plot focuses on 13-year-old Rynn Jacobs (Foster), a child whose absent poet father and secretive behaviours prod the suspicions of her conservative small-town Maine neighbours. The adaptation, originally intended as a play, was filmed in Quebec on a small budget. The production later became the subject of controversy over reports that Foster had conflicts with producers over the filming and inclusion of a nude scene, but a 21-year-old body double (Foster's sister) was used. After a screening at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival, a court challenge was launched regarding distribution, and a general release followed in 1977.

Alice Sweet Alice (1976)

Alice, Sweet Alice (originally titled Communion) is a 1976 American slasher film co-written and directed by Alfred Sole, and starring Linda Miller, Paula Sheppard, and Brooke Shields in her film debut. Set in 1961 New Jersey, the film focuses on a troubled adolescent girl who becomes a suspect in the brutal murder of her younger sister at her First Communion, as well as in a series of unsolved stabbings that follow.  Inspired by Nicolas Roeg's Don't Look Now (1973) and the films of Alfred Hitchcock, writer-director Sole devised the screenplay with Rosemary Ritvo, an English professor who was his neighbor. At the time, Sole had been working as an architect restoring historic buildings in his hometown of Paterson, New Jersey, and several properties he had worked on were used as shooting locations. Filming took place throughout the summer of 1975 in Paterson and Newark. The film premiered at the Chicago International Film Festival under its original title, Communion, in November 1976, and was released under this title in London in September 1977. After being acquired by Allied Artists, it was re-titled Alice, Sweet Alice, and released in the United States on November 18, 1977. Another theatrical re-release occurred in 1981 under the title Holy Terror, which marketed the popularity of Shields after her performance in Louis Malle's Pretty Baby (1978). While not prosecuted for obscenity, the film was seized and confiscated in the UK under Section 3 of the Obscene Publications Act 1959 during the video nasty panic, and was controversial in Ireland due to its apparent anti-Catholic themes.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.06); Background History (33.19); The Little Girl Who Lived Down the Lane (1976) Film Trailer (36.06); The Original (37.02); Let's Rate (1:22.57); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:43.44); Introducing the Double Feature (1:44.27); Alice Sweet Alice (1976) Film Trailer (1:46.31); The Attraction (1:48.12); How Many Stars (3:01.15); End Credits (3:23.15); Closing Credits (3:24.19)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Thank Heaven For Little Girls by Maurice Chevalier.  Taken from the original Broadway production of GIGI.  Copyright 1958 MGM Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

Used With Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Kuntilanak is a 2018 Indonesian horror film directed by Rizal Mantovani and written by Alim Sudio.  The plot revolves around five children who find a mirror in their orphanage. The mirror contains a ghost that kidnaps children and imprisons them inside it.

The Hole is a 2009 American 3D dark fantasy horror film directed by Joe Dante and starring Chris Massoglia, Haley Bennett, Nathan Gamble, Bruce Dern, and Teri Polo. The film follows Dane and Lucas Thompson, two brothers who move into their new house in Bensenville with their single mother, Susan. While settling in their new home, Dane and Lucas, along with their new neighbor, Julie Campbell, discover a trap door in the basement, leading to a bottomless pit and, upon opening it, accidentally unleash a supernatural force that manifests itself into any fear of the person who looks into the hole.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.22); Background History (35.05); Kuntilanak (2018) Film Trailer (35.55); Now We Present (37.06); Let's Rate (1:02.15); Introducing a Film (1:14.57); The Hole (2009) Film Trailer (1: 16.00); Lights, Camera, Action (1:17.36); How Many Stars (1:43.22); End Credits (1:50.51); Closing Credits (1:52.42)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Don’t Let The Lights Go Out by Panic At The Disco.  Taken from the album Viva La Vengeance.  Copyright 2022 Fuelled by Ramen and DCD2 Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to the Literary License Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of anthology films with a special focus on the final two Amicus anthology films: The Vault of Horror (1973) and From Beyond the Grave (1974).

Join hosts Joe Randazzo, Keith Chago, and Vicki Ray as they explore the enduring appeal of anthology films, tracing their roots from literary classics by Poe, Hawthorne, Stevenson, and Lovecraft, to their cinematic adaptations over the decades.

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion on what everyone has been up to, including recent movie viewings and personal anecdotes. Then, the hosts dive deep into The Vault of Horror, analyzing its five chilling tales and the stellar performances by actors like Terry Thomas, Glynnis Johns, and Tom Baker. Each story is dissected for its narrative strengths, memorable twists, and the unique charm that makes this film a beloved classic.

Next, the discussion shifts to From Beyond the Grave, the final Amicus anthology film. The hosts examine how this film's stories, centered around a mysterious antique shop, continue the tradition of moralistic tales with a supernatural twist. With standout performances by horror legends Peter Cushing, Donald Pleasance, and David Warner, this film is celebrated for its engaging stories and eerie atmosphere.

Throughout the episode, the hosts reflect on the legacy of Amicus Productions and the impact of anthology films on the horror genre. They also draw connections to contemporary works influenced by these classics, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the genre's evolution.

Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode as we celebrate the rich history of anthology films and the enduring legacy of Amicus Productions. Tune in now!

The Demon’s Quest Part 1

When Robin is mysteriously abducted from his college campus, Batman begins a fruitless search…until he is astounded by the sudden appearance in the Batcave of Ra’s Al Ghul.  Ra’s quickly reveals that his daughter, Talia, has been abducted under circumstances similar to Robin’s, suggesting that the same persons are responsible.  So begins an uneasy truce between the Batman and ‘The Demon’.

The Demon’s Quest Part 2

After learning the secret of Ra’s al Ghul’s immortality, Batman and Robin escape from a death trap and follow the only clue they have to stop Ra’s plans – the world ‘Orpheus’.  After discovering the ‘Orpheus’ is Ra’s private satellite that will orbit over the Sahara, the duo travel to Demon’s desert stronghold.  There, Batman learns that the satellite is actually a weapon which will explosively destroy all the Lazarus Pits simultaneously, throughout the world, changing the eco-system and returning Earth to is original natural state.

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Fire From Olympus

Believing himself to be the reincarnation of the Greek God Zeus, mad shipping magnate Maxie Zeus hijacks an experimental electron cannon.  Mounting the weapon atop his penthouse, Maxie plans to rain ‘lightning bolts’ down on the wicked mortals of Gotham City.

Read My Lips

Gotham Police are baffled by a series of crimes executed with clockwork-like precision.  Batman investigates and discovers that the crimes are planned by a mob boss known as Scarface.  He traces Scarface to his lair – a deserted mannequin warehouse – and discovers, to his astonishment, that the crime czar is a wooden dummy, manipulated by a mild-mannered man called the Ventriloquist mortals of Gotham City.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.49); Episode One:  Demon’s Quest Part 1 & 2 (24.06); Episode Two:  Fire From Olympus (50.47); Episode Three:  Read My Lips (1:01.32); Favourite Episode (1:18.07); I End Credits (1:30.32); Closing Credits (1:32.16)

Opening Credits– Donde Esta Santa Clause by Augie Roos.  Taken from the album Maybe This Christmas Too.  Copyright 1958 Ragtime Music

Closing Credits:  Do You Hear What I Hear/You Really Got Me by Bobby Lloyd and the Skeltons.  Taken from the album A Christmas Party at Eddie G.  Copyright 1996. Strikin’ It Rich Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Web Planet

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13 February – 20 March 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Ian Chesterton (William Russell), Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), and Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) ally themselves with the Menoptra, the former inhabitants of the planet Vortis, as they struggle to win back the planet from the malignant Animus (Catherine Fleming) and its Zarbi slaves.

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The Crusades

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27 March – 17 April 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Ian Chesterton (William Russell), Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), and Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) arrive in 12th century Palestine during the Third Crusade and find themselves entangled in the conflict between King Richard the Lionheart (Julian Glover) and Saladin (Bernard Kay). They also meet King Richard's sister Lady Joanna (Jean Marsh) and Saladin's brother Saphadin (Roger Avon).

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Dr Who and the Daleks (1965)

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is a 1965 British science fiction film directed by Gordon Flemyng and written by Milton Subotsky, and the first of two films based on the British science-fiction television series Doctor Who. It stars Peter Cushing as Dr. Who, Roberta Tovey as Susan, Jennie Linden as Barbara, and Roy Castle as Ian. It was followed by Daleks' Invasion Earth 2150 A.D. (1966).

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The story is based on the Doctor Who television serial The Daleks, produced by the BBC. Filmed in Technicolor, it is the first Doctor Who story to be made in colour and in a widescreen format. The film was not intended to form part of the ongoing story-lines of the television series. Elements from the programme are used, however, such as various characters, the Daleks and a police box time machine, albeit in re-imagined forms.

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Opening Credits; Introduction (.43); The Web Planet Synopsis (1.27); Television Thoughts (4.25); Let's Rate (25.04); Introducing The Crusades (27.04); The Crusades Synopsis ( 34.41); Discussing the Episode (38.15); Rating the Episodes (47.42); Film:  Doctor Who and The Daleks (1965) (53.08); Doctor Who and the Daleks (1965) Trailer (54.14); Lights, Camera, Action (57.24); How Many Stars (1:09.59); End Credits (1:14.56); Closing Credits (1:21.53)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  We’re Not Gonna Take It by Twisted Sister.  Taken from the album Stay Hungry.  Copyright 1984 Atlantic Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Daleks – Part 2

21 December 1963 – 1 February 1964

Episodes 5 – 7

The Expedition

The Ordeal

The Rescue

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan Foreman and her teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright land in an alien jungle and are captured by the Daleks, a race of mutated creatures who survive off the radiation that remains in the atmosphere after a nuclear war with their enemies. As the group attempt to escape the Daleks, they discover more about the planet and the ensuing war and attempt to broker a peace.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (8.19); Let's Discuss (10.49); Amazing Design Advertisement (57.27); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (58.39); Let's Rate (1:06.49); Tune In Next Time (1:12.41); Closing Credits (1:15.17)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Cause I’m a Blonde – by Julie Brown.  Taken from the album Goddess in Progress.  Copyright 1984 Rhino Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved

. 

Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade is a 1955 novel by American author Patrick Dennis chronicling the madcap adventures of a boy, Patrick, growing up as the ward of his Aunt Mame Dennis, the sister of his dead father.

The book is often described as having been inspired by Dennis' real-life eccentric aunt, Marion Tanner, whose life and outlook mirrored those of Mame, but Dennis denied the connection. The novel was a runaway bestseller, setting records on the New York Times bestseller list, with more than 2 million copies in print during its initial publication. It became the basis of a stage play, a film, a stage musical, and a film musical.

In 1958, Dennis wrote a sequel titled Around the World with Auntie Mame.

Auntie Mame is a 1958 American Technirama Technicolor comedy film based on the 1955 novel of the same name by Edward Everett Tanner III (under the pseudonym Patrick Dennis) and its 1956 theatrical adaptation by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee. This film version stars Rosalind Russell and was directed by Morton DaCosta. It is not to be confused with a musical version of the same story that appeared on Broadway in 1966 and was later made into a 1974 film, Mame, starring Lucille Ball as the title character.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.21); Background History (15.30); Auntie Mame by Patrick Dennis Plot Synopsis (17.01); Book Thoughts (21.56); Let's Rate (39.06); Introducing a Film (41.18); Auntie Mame (1958) Film Trailer (42.25); Lights, Camera, Action (45.31); How Many Stars (1:13.28); End Credits (1.18.01); Closing Credits (1:20.07)

Opening Credits– Jingle Bells by Ella Fitzgerald.  Taken from the album Ella’s Swinging Christmas.  Copyright 1960 Verve Records.  All rights reserved.

Incidental Music:  Auntie Mame Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Music by Ray Heindorf and His Orchestra.  Copyright 1958 Master Classics Records.

Closing Credits:  We Need A Little Christmas by Angela Lansbury, Frankie Michals, Sab Saminino- Original Broadway Cast.  From the album Mame Original Broadway Recording.  Copyright 1966 Columbia Master Works Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Scarface (1932)

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Scarface (also known as Scarface: The Shame of the Nation and The Shame of a Nation) is a 1932 American pre-Code gangster film directed by Howard Hawks and produced by Hawks and Howard Hughes. The screenplay, by Ben Hecht, is based loosely on the 1929 novel by Armitage Trail which was inspired by Al Capone. The film stars Paul Muni as Italian immigrant gangster Antonio "Tony" Camonte, a gangster who violently rises through the Chicago gangland, with a supporting cast that includes George Raft and Boris Karloff. Camonte's rise to power dovetails with his relentless pursuit of his boss's mistress while his own sister pursues his best hitman. In an overt tie to the life of Capone, one scene depicts a version of the Saint Valentine's Day Massacre.  After Hughes purchased the rights to Trail's novel, Hughes quickly selected Hawks to direct and Hecht to write the film's screenplay. Beginning in January 1931, Hecht wrote the script over an eleven-day period. Scarface was produced before the introduction of the Production Code in 1934, which enforced regulations on film content. However, the Hays Code, a more lenient precursor, called for major alterations, including a prologue condemning gangsters, an alternate ending to more clearly reprehend Camonte, and the alternative title The Shame of a Nation. The censors believed the film glorified violence and crime. These changes delayed the film by a year, though some showings retained the original ending. Modern showings of the film have the original ending, though some DVD releases also include the alternate ending as a feature; these versions maintain the changes Hughes and Hawks were required to make for approval by the Hays Office. No completely unaltered version is known to exist.

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Scarface (1983)

Scarface is a 1983 American crime drama film directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone. Loosely based on the 1929 novel of the same name and serving as a loose remake of the 1932 film, it tells the story of Cuban refugee Tony Montana (Al Pacino), who arrives penniless in Miami during the Mariel boatlift and becomes a powerful and extremely homicidal drug lord. The film co-stars Steven Bauer, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and Robert Loggia. De Palma dedicated this version of Scarface to the writers of the original film, Howard Hawks and Ben Hecht.  Pacino became interested in a remake of the 1932 version after seeing it, and he and producer Martin Bregman began to develop it. Sidney Lumet was initially hired to direct the film but was replaced by De Palma, who hired Stone to write the script. Filming took place from November 1982 to May 1983, in Los Angeles and Miami. The film's soundtrack was composed by Giorgio Moroder. Scarface premiered in New York City on December 1, 1983, and was released on December 9, 1983, by Universal Pictures. The film grossed $45 million at the domestic box office and $66 million worldwide. Initial critical reception was negative due to its excessive violence, profanity, and graphic drug usage. Some Cuban expatriates in Miami objected to the film's portrayal of Cubans as criminals

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (31.40); Scarface (1932) Film Trailer (34.25); The Original (37.00); Let's Rate (1:18.47); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:23.06);  Introducing a Remake (1:24.18); Scarface (1983)  Film Trailer (1:26.21); The Remake (1:29.35); How Many Stars (2:32.14); End Credits (2:49.03); Closing Credits (2:50.36)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Gangsta Paradise by Coolio featuring LV.  Taken from the album Gangsta Paradise, I am LV.  Copyright 1995 Tommy Boy/Warner Brothers/MCA Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Extraordinary Adventures of Adele Blanc-Sec (2010)

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The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec  is a 2010 French fantasy adventure feature film written and directed by Luc Besson. It is loosely based on the comic book series The Extraordinary Adventures of Adèle Blanc-Sec by Jacques Tardi and, as in the comic, follows the eponymous writer and a number of recurring side characters in a succession of far-fetched incidents in 1910s Paris and beyond, in this episode revolving around parapsychology and ultra-advanced Ancient Egyptian technology, which both pastiche and subvert adventure and speculative fiction of the period. The primarily live-action film, shot in Super 35, incorporates much use of computer animation to portray its fanciful elements and contemporary action film special and visual effects within the form of the older-style adventure films they have largely superseded.

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Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955)

Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy is a 1955 horror comedy that would star the legendary team of Abbott and Costello making their final appearance in the Universal-International feature.  The film would also star stuntman Eddie Parker as the mummy who was Lon Chaney’s double in the previous mummy films.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.03); Background History (19.17); The Extraordinary Adventures of Adele Blanc-Sec (2010) Film Trailer (20.50); Discussing Our First Feature (22.21); Let's Rate (40.12); Amazing Design Advertisement (48.58); Introducing the Double Feature (50.09); The Abbott and Costello Meet The Mummy (1955) Film Trailer (50.28); The Attraction (52.34); How Many Stars (1:38.18);  End Credits (1:51.35); Closing Credits (1:52.58)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Walk Like An Egyptian 12” remix – The Bangles from the album Different Light.  Copyright 1987 Columbia Bang-a-Lang Music

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Music Man is a 1962 American musical film directed and produced by Morton DaCosta, based on Meredith Willson's 1957 Broadway musical of the same name, which DaCosta also directed. Robert Preston reprises the title role from the stage version, starring alongside Shirley Jones, Buddy Hackett, Hermione Gingold, Ronny Howard, and Paul Ford.

Released by Warner Bros. on June 19, 1962, the film was one of the biggest hits of the year and was widely acclaimed by critics. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, with composer Ray Heindorf winning Best Music, Scoring of Music, Adaptation or Treatment. The film also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and Preston and Jones were both nominated in their respective acting categories. In 2005, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

Island of Love is a 1963 American comedy film directed by Morton DaCosta and written by David R. Schwartz. The film stars Robert Preston, Tony Randall, Giorgia Moll, Walter Matthau, Betty Bruce and Vassili Lambrinos. The film was released by Warner Bros. on June 12, 1963.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.22); Background History (37.48); The Music Man (1962) Film Trailer (38.58); Our Feature Presentation (39.47); Let's Rate (1:07.13); Introducing Our Next Feature (1:11.47); Island of Love (1963) Background Footage (1:12.40; Lights, Camera, Action (1:14.05); How Many Stars (2:23.54); End Credits (2:33.51); Closing Credits (2:35.10)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Once Upon A Christmas Song by Peter Kay introducing Geraldine McQueen.  Copyright 2008 Peter Kay and Gary Barlow

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Join a riveting journey with the hosts of the Literary License Podcast, as Season 7 takes a thrilling dive into the darker aspects of family films in the 'Dark Families Week' episode. In this episode, hosts Keith Chawgo, Joe Randazzo, and Vicky Ray analyze popular family favorites such as "Iron Giant" and "Monster House", while weaving in personal anecdotes and experiences.

Journey through Joe Randazzo's rollercoaster winter travel experience to celebrate his nephew's birthday, reminding us of the value of family ties. Vicky Ray shares her home renovation plans and discusses Nefarious, a captivating thriller. Keith pays tribute to David J. Skal, a significant figure in horror genre research, praising his contributions to the genre.

The episode then transitions to dissecting the film "The Iron Giant", providing fascinating insights into its development, storyline, themes, animation style and even the impact of the film on its audience. Then, it switches gears to the eerie tale of "Monster House", discussing the charming storyline, animation style, and the relatable characters of the movie.

In this engaging conversation, our hosts not only review these classic animations, but also discuss different elements from the film industry and touch upon their relevance in today's cinema history. From contemplating the future of animation to in-depth film rating sessions, this episode offers unique perspectives that every animation and horror film enthusiast will appreciate.

You’re Next (2011)

You're Next is a 2011 American slasher film directed and edited by Adam Wingard, written by Simon Barrett and starring Sharni Vinson, Nicholas Tucci, Wendy Glenn, A. J. Bowen, Joe Swanberg, Barbara Crampton and Rob Moran. The plot concerns an estranged family under attack by a group of masked assailants during a family reunion.  The film had its world premiere at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival Midnight Madness program and was theatrically released on August 23, 2013, in the United States. The film grossed over $26 million from a $1 million production budget and has since gained a cult following.

The Guest (2014)

The Guest is a 2014 American thriller film directed by Adam Wingard and written by Simon Barrett. The film stars Dan Stevens and Maika Monroe, with a supporting cast that includes Leland Orser, Sheila Kelley, Brendan Meyer, and Lance Reddick. It tells the story of a U.S. soldier (Stevens) called David who unexpectedly visits the Peterson family, introducing himself as a friend of their son who died in combat in Afghanistan. After he has been staying in their home for a couple of days, a series of deaths occur, and the daughter Anna (Monroe) suspects David is connected to them.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Background History (15.49); You’re Next (2011) Film Trailer (16.54); The Original (18.57); Introducing the Double Feature (42.20); The Guest (2014) Film Trailer (44.32); The Attraction (1:40.59); How Many Stars (1:18.40); End Credits (1:22.18); Closing Credits (1:23.15)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Perfect Day by Lou Reed.  Taken from the album Transformer.  Copyright 1972 Trident Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used With Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Time Meddler

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3 – 24 July 1965

Set in Northumbria in 1066, before the Battle of Stamford Bridge, the serial features the time traveller the First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his companions Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) and Steven Taylor (Peter Purves) as they attempt to outwit the time traveller the Monk (Peter Butterworth), who is plotting to change the course of European history by wiping out King Harald Hardrada's Viking invasion fleet, leaving Harold Godwinson and the Saxon soldiers fresh to defeat William of Normandy and the Norman soldiers at the Battle of Hastings.

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Galaxy 4

11 September – 2 October 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) and Steven (Peter Purves) arrive on an arid planet, where they encounter the beautiful but dangerous Drahvins and the hideous but friendly Rills, two crash-landed species in conflict with one another. Both species wish to escape as the planet is set to explode in two dawns, but the Drahvin leader Maaga (Stephanie Bidmead) only wants her people to make it out alive.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.44); Background History (7.15); The Time Meddler Synopsis (8.15); Discussing the Story (12.16); Let's Rate (24.36); Introducing Our Next Story 25.11); Galaxy 4 Synopsis (25.52); Lights, Camera, Action (28.46); How Many Stars (39.07); End Credits (39.51); Closing Credits (41.05)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Female of the Species by SPACE  Taken from the album Spiders.  Copyright 1996 GUT Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Fantasia is a 1940 American animated musical anthology film produced and released by Walt Disney Productions, with story direction by Joe Grant and Dick Huemer and production supervision by Walt Disney and Ben Sharpsteen. The third Disney animated feature film, it consists of eight animated segments set to pieces of classical music conducted by Leopold Stokowski, seven of which are performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra. Music critic and composer Deems Taylor acts as the film's Master of Ceremonies who introduces each segment in live action.

Fantasia 2000 is a 1999 American animated musical anthology film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Produced by Roy E. Disney and Donald W. Ernst, it is the 38th Disney animated feature film and sequel to 1940's Fantasia. Like its predecessor, Fantasia 2000 consists of animated segments set to pieces of classical music. Celebrities including Steve Martin, Itzhak Perlman, Quincy Jones, Bette Midler, James Earl Jones, Penn & Teller, James Levine, and Angela Lansbury introduce a segment in live action scenes directed by Don Hahn.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.00); Background History (15.06); Fantasia (1940) Film Trailer (18.19); Opening Presentation (21.15); Let's Rate (41.33); Introducing Our Second Feature (43.40); Fantasia 2000 (1999) Film Trailer (46.11); Lights, Camera, Action (48.12); How Many Stars (1:19.57); End Credits (1:24.29); Closing Credits (1:25.46)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  The Age of Not Believing  by Angela Lansbury.  From the album Bedknobs and Broomsticks Original Soundtrack.  Copyright 1971 Disney Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Edge of Destruction

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8 February – 15 February 1964

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan and her teachers  are in the Doctor's time and space machine the TARDIS when it appears to be taken over by an outside force. The travellers begin acting strangely and turn against each other.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (8.39); Let's Discuss (10.51); Amazing Design Advertisement (25.15); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (26.26); Tune In Next Time (32.07); Closing Credits (34.07)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Elf’s Lament by Barenaked Ladies with Michael Buble.  Taken from the album Barenaked For The Holidays.  Copyright 2004 Desperation Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. 

Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Beauty and the Beast is a 1991 American animated musical romantic fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The 30th Disney animated feature film and the third released during the Disney Renaissance period, it is based on the 1756 fairy tale of the same name by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont (who was only credited in the French dub),[6] while also containing ideas from the 1946 French film of the same name directed by Jean Cocteau.[7] The film was directed by Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise (in their feature directorial debuts) and produced by Don Hahn, from a screenplay by Linda Woolverton.

Beauty and the Beast is a 2017 American musical romantic fantasy film directed by Bill Condon from a screenplay by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos. Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Mandeville Films, the film is a live-action adaptation of Disney's 1991 animated film of the same name, itself an adaptation of Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont's 1756 version of the fairy tale. Starring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens as the eponymous Belle and the Beast, the film features an ensemble and choir cast including Luke Evans, Kevin Kline, Josh Gad, Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci, Audra McDonald, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Ian McKellen, and Emma Thompson.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.27); Background History (15.24); Beauty and the Beast (1991) Trailer (19.47); Original Thoughts (21.27); Let's Rate (49.53); Introducing a Remake (53.54); Beauty and the Beast (2017) Trailer (56.29); Lights, Camera, Action (58.48); How Many Stars (1:48.23); End Credits (1:55.29); Closing Credits (1:56.54)

Opening Credits– Beauty and the Beast Prologue by Alan Menken.  Copyright 1991 Disney Records. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Beauty and the Beast by Marilyn Martin.  Taken from the self titled album Marilyn Martin.  Copyright 1986 Atlantic Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

A Ghost Story (2017)

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A Ghost Story is a 2017 American supernatural drama film written and directed by David Lowery. It stars Casey Affleck, Rooney Mara, Will Oldham, Sonia Acevedo, Rob Zabrecky, Liz Franke and Kesha. Affleck plays a man who becomes a ghost and remains in the house he shares with his wife (Mara).  The film had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 22, 2017, and was released by A24 on July 7, 2017. A Ghost Story received positive reviews from critics.

Coco (2017)

Coco is a 2017 American computer-animated fantasy film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. Based on an original idea by Lee Unkrich, it is directed by him and co-directed by Adrian Molina. The film's voice cast stars Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renée Victor, Ana Ofelia Murguía and Edward James Olmos. The story follows a 12-year-old boy named Miguel who is accidentally transported to the Land of the Dead, where he seeks the help of his deceased musician great-great-grandfather to return him to his family among the living and to reverse his family's ban on music.  The concept for Coco is inspired by the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead. The film was scripted by Molina and Matthew Aldrich from a story by Unkrich, Jason Katz, Aldrich, and Molina. Pixar began developing the animation in 2016; Unkrich and some of the film's crew visited Mexico for research. Composer Michael Giacchino, who had worked on prior Pixar animated features, composed the score. With a cost of $175–225 million, Coco is the first film with a nine-figure budget to feature an all-Latino principal cast.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Background History (25.56); A Ghost Story (2017)  Trailer (27.08); The Original (29.19); Let's Rate (1:17.37); Introducing the Double Feature (1:23.44); Coco (2017) Film Trailer (1:25.58); The Attraction (1:28.07); How Many Stars (1:53.14); End Credits (2:02.33); Closing Credits (2:04.10)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Proud Corazon by Anthony Gonzalez/Remember Me (Duo) by Miguel.  Taken from the soundtrack Coco.  Copyright 2017 Disney Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Dive deep into the world of one of the most iconic characters in television history with 'Behind The Scenes of Doctor Who: The Tom Baker Years - An Interview with Ian Brittan-Hull.' This episode from the Literary License Podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the past, providing intriguing insights into the classic BBC science fiction series Doctor Who.

Our host, Ramona Schnitger, engages in a captivating discussion with special guest, Ian Brittan-Hull, known for his role as Tom Baker's double on the show. Brittan-Hull shares his unforgettable experiences from his early fan days to the behind-the-scenes life as an integral part of the series. He brings to life his meetings with Tom Baker's publicity agent, his time in newspapers alongside Baker and his eventual transition into embodying the character at various public events.

Throughout the episode, Brittan-Hull's accounts of working closely with Baker shed light on the human aspects of the legendary actor. He also answers listener queries about his performances, comparisons with other stuntmen, and his perspective on the role of stuntmen in the series. Within this nostalgic and intriguing listen, he candidly shares his journey of faithfully bringing Doctor Who out from the screens and into public spaces.

The episode does not end there. Brittan-Hull then talks about his present ventures and upcoming projects, from his theater company AMA Theatre to his latest passion project, Pirates. His fascinating narratives of his creative journey make this podcast episode compelling for Doctor Who fans and general audiences alike.

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is a 1971 children's science fiction/fantasy book by Robert C. O'Brien, with illustrations by Zena Bernstein. The novel was published by the New York City publishing house Atheneum Books.

This book was the winner of numerous awards including the 1972 Newbery Medal.   Ten years following its publication, the story was adapted for film as The Secret of NIMH (1982).

The novel centres around a colony of escaped lab rats–the rats of NIMH–who live in a technologically sophisticated and literate society mimicking that of humans. They come to the aid of Mrs. Frisby, a widowed field mouse who seeks to protect her children and home from destruction by a farmer’s plow.

The rats of NIMH were inspired by the research of John B. Calhoun on mouse and rat population dynamics at the National Institute of Mental Health from the 1940s to the 1960s.

After O’Brien’s death in 1973, his daughter Jane Leslie Conly wrote two sequels to Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH.

The Secret of NIMH is a 1982 American animated fantasy adventure film directed by Don Bluth in his directorial debut and based on Robert C. O'Brien's 1971 children's novel, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. The film features the voices of Elizabeth Hartman, Peter Strauss, Arthur Malet, Dom DeLuise, John Carradine, Derek Jacobi, Hermione Baddeley, and Paul Shenar. It was produced by Bluth's production company Don Bluth Productions in association with Aurora Productions.

The Secret of NIMH was released in the United States on July 2, 1982, by MGM/UA Entertainment Co. under the United Artists label. It was praised by critics for its elegant and painstakingly detailed animation, compelling characters, and deep and mature plot, and won a Saturn Award for Best Animated Film of 1982. Though only a moderate success at the box office, it turned a solid profit through home video and overseas releases. It was followed in 1998 by a direct-to-video sequel, The Secret of NIMH 2: Timmy to the Rescue, which was made without Bluth's involvement or input and met with poor reception. In 2015, a live-action/computer-animated remake was reported to be in the works. A television series adaptation is also in development by the Fox Corporation.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.21); Background History (4.50); Mrs Frisby and the Rats of NIMH Plot Synopsis (6.15); Book Thoughts (11.37); Let's Rate (42.18); Introducing a Film (44.01); Secret of NIMH (1982) Film Trailer (46.00); Lights, Camera, Action (48.33); How Many Stars (1:33.30); End Credits (1.35.41); Closing Credits (1:37.18)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Flying Dreams (from The Secret of NIMH) by Kenny Loggins featuring Olivia Newton-John.  Taken from the album More Songs from Pooh’s Corner.  Copyright 2000 Sony Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Join us for a riveting episode of the "Lit Your License Podcast" as we diverge from Batman retrospectives and delve deep into the chaotic world of Pro Wrestling. Journey with our hosts Keith Chawgo, Sean Steffan, and Vicky Rae as we examine significant events, from the controversies surrounding Vince McMahon's resignation to the reactions towards Dwayne 'The Rock'" Johnson's return. Marvel at the dynamics behind the rise of wrestling stars like Cody Rhodes and the political power plays pervading the industry. Picture the thrilling future of wrestling through our intriguing conjectures and hear our comparisons to the world of TV soaps. Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the dichotomy between good and evil, and anticipations for the upcoming Vince McMahon biopic.

Dive into our extensive explorations of video games, unique movie recommendations, and in-depth analysis of the iconic Batman series. Feel our hosts' gaming frustrations and triumphs, understand the hypnotic charm of Yakuza movies, and partake in our anticipation for classic series like Twilight Zone and Friday the 13th. Unravel Batman's complicated relationships and contemplate his future as we navigate the exciting world of streaming. Participate in reflective discussions on power dynamics, personal responsibilities, and mutual attraction as we tackle a range of entertainment topics.

Join us as we analyze fascinating characters like Harley Quinn and the Terrible Trio, uncovering motivations and examining complex dynamics. Further, delve into the intricacies of film making and profitability, shedding light on the importance of fanbases and the enduring appeal of a variety of movies and actors. Discover thrilling genres of horror and action films, understanding the subtlety of messaging, the impacts of company ownership, and financial struggles of major cinema industry players. Round out the conversation with reflections on the presentation and performances in iconic movies like "Barbie" and ponder over the possible future of the "Transformers" franchise in this engaging episode.

Take part in our exploration of the world of movies, toys, celebrities, and nostalgia as we discuss the evolution of the Transformers franchise, the illustrious career of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, and the careers of renowned actors like John Travolta and Robin Williams. Relish in our nostalgic reminiscences of forgotten sequels and real-life dynamics mirrored in movies and conclude with an insight into the multifaceted psyche of comedians like Richard Pryor. Traverse through classic TV series' episodes as we wrap up this dynamic episode that is too intriguing to miss!

Introducing the Literary License Podcast, an insightful foray into the film industry with a special lens on Batman: The Animated Series. Join our host Keith Shogun and his esteemed guests Sean Steffen, Joe Randazzo, and Vicky Ray as they dissect iconic episodes from Batman's animated adventures. The episode begins with Sean's holiday recount and his cinematic journey with the AMC A-List, exploring an array of movies from Ghostbusters to Kong Godzilla.

Shifting gears towards horror film franchises, our hosts unpick Rob Zombie's Halloween, examining the impact of origin stories on characters' aura. The conversation eventually turns to the films "Late Night With The Devil" and "Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare," and how they present a perfect blend of thematic elements and action-packed sequences. The episode concludes with a lively chatter on Batman's loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth, and his intriguing, secret-service past.

The hosts also engage in spirited discussions about the complexities of Wayne Industries and the potentially dangerous links it might share with global entities. The narrative delves into Batman's identity crisis during its transition from a children's series to a more adult-centric one, and how it resulted in a slight dip in the animation quality. However, the subjects diversify as the conversation moves towards Scooby-Doo, the philosophy of any publicity being good publicity, and the controversial movie, Human Centipede.

Enriched with movie reviews, trivia, plot analysis, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this episode promises to delight Batman aficionados and casual listeners alike. Join this enriching round-table discussion - a tribute to the iconic Batman series and its complex, multi-dimensional universe.

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The Clock King

After his company goes bankrupt, Temple Fugate becomes the Clock King. Fugate sets out to seek his revenge against the man whom he blames for his misfortunes: Mayor Hamilton Hill. Fugate kidnaps Hill, intending to do away with him to accomplish his revenge. Batman must stop Fugate from carrying out his revenge and save the mayor's life.

Appointment in Crime Alley 

With the help of arsonists, Roland Daggett plans to destroy Crime Alley and use the land to expand his business empire. Batman must stop Daggett's men and also save a captured Leslie Thompkins (Who helped a young Bruce Wayne cope with the loss of his parents).

Mad As A Hatter 

Miserable Wayne Industries scientist Jervis Tetch is unable to pursue the girl he loves, Alice the secretary. When she splits up from her boyfriend, he makes an advance and develops a fast friendship with her, until her boyfriend reconciles with her and proposes to her. Enraged, Tetch decides to take matters into his own hands, and dons the mantle of the Mad Hatter, using his mind-control devices to force those who have wronged him all his life to become his mindless slaves.

Dreams in Darkness

Batman is incarcerated in Arkham Asylum after being exposed to the Scarecrow's fear-inducing gas. Batman knows that the Scarecrow has escaped for the second time and is planning to poison Gotham's water supply with the same fear-inducing gas, and he must bring himself to break the law and escape from Arkham before the Scarecrow brings Gotham to its knees.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Episode One: The Clock King (26.33); Episode Two:  Appointment in Crime Alley (35.33); Episode Three:  Mad As A Hatter (45.19); Episode Four:  Dreams in Darkness (56.19); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:04.09); Favourite Episode (1:05.21); Favourite Character (1:11.31);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (1:21.00); Closing Credits (1:22.47)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  Play With Fire (Featuring Yacht Money) by Sam Tinnesz.  Taken from the album Babel.  Copyright 2017 Warner’s Music Group

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Lion King is a 1994 American animated musical drama film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The 32nd Disney animated feature film and the fifth produced during the Disney Renaissance, it is inspired by William Shakespeare's Hamlet with elements from the Biblical stories of Joseph and Moses and Disney's 1942 film Bambi. The film was directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff (in their feature directorial debuts) and produced by Don Hahn, from a screenplay written by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton. The film features an ensemble voice cast that includes Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Rowan Atkinson, and Robert Guillaume. Its original songs were written by composer Elton John and lyricist Tim Rice, with a score by Hans Zimmer.

The film has led to many derived works, such as a Broadway adaptation in 1997; two direct-to-video follow-ups—the sequel, The Lion King II: Simba's Pride (1998), and the prequel/parallel, The Lion King 1½ (2004); two television series, Timon and Pumbaa and The Lion Guard; and a photorealistic remake in 2019, which also became the highest-grossing animated film at the time of its release. In 2016, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".  The Lion King is the first Disney film to have been dubbed in Zulu, the only African language aside from Arabic to have been used for a feature-length Disney dub.

The Lion King is a 2019 American musical drama film directed and co-produced by Jon Favreau, written by Jeff Nathanson, and produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Fairview Entertainment. It is a photorealistic computer-animated remake of Disney's traditionally animated 1994 film of the same name. The film stars the voices of Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, Billy Eichner, John Kani, John Oliver, Florence Kasumba, Eric André, Keegan-Michael Key, JD McCrary, Shahadi Wright Joseph, with Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, and James Earl Jones reprising his role from the original film.

Plans for a remake of 1994's The Lion King were confirmed in September 2016 with Favreau attached to directed following box office successes for Disney remakes such as The Jungle Book (2016), which was also directed by Favreau. Disney hired Nathanson to write the screenplay in October 2016. Favreau was inspired by certain roles of characters in the Broadway adaptation and developed upon elements of the original film's story. Much of the main cast signed in early 2017, and principal photography began in mid-2017 on a blue screen stage in Los Angeles. The "virtual-reality tools" utilized in The Jungle Book's cinematography were used to a greater degree during filming of The Lion King. Composers Hans Zimmer, Elton John, and lyricist Tim Rice, all of whom worked on the original's soundtrack, returned to compose the score alongside Knowles-Carter, who assisted John in the reworking of the soundtrack and wrote a new song for the film, titled "Spirit", which she also performed. The film serves as the final credit for editor Mark Livolsi, and it is dedicated to his memory. With an estimated budget of around $260 million, The Lion King is one of the most expensive films ever made.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (1:02.08); The Lion King (19940 Trailer (1;05.30); The Original (1:06.41); Let's Rate (1:51.58); INTERMISSON:  (1:56.58) Introducing a Film (2:07.01); The Lion King (2019) Film Trailer (2:04.06); Lights, Camera, Action (2:05.51); How Many Stars (2:43.21); End Credits (2:58.34); Closing Credits (2:59.34)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved.

Intermission Music:  He Lives In You (Reprise) – Ensemble – The Lion King, Jason Raize and Tsidii Le Loka.  Taken from the album The Lion King, The Original Broadway Cast Album.  Copyright 1997 Walt Disney Records.  .

Closing Credits:  Shadowlands by Shadowland · Heather Headley · Tsidii Le Loka · Ensemble - The Lion King.  Taken from The Lion King, The Original Broadway Cast Album.  Copyright 1997 Walt Disney Records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

Interval Music:  The Lion King Original Broadway Cast.  Copyright 1997 Walt Disney Records.

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to a highly engaging episode of the Literary License Podcast's Book to Screen series. In this episode, dive into the timeless world of 'The Wizard of Oz' by L. Frank Baum. Join hosts Keith Chawgo, Leandro Ghezzi and Vicky Rae as they delve into the mesmerizing world of Oz, discussing its origins, Broadway adaptation, and its iconic film version that made Judy Garland unforgettable.

Immerse in the journey of Dorothy Gale, Toto, and the magical Land of Oz. Discover or even re-discover why this classic American fairy tale remains close to our hearts as we go through the fascinating characters, landscapes, and intricate quests of the story. The episode also features a deep exploration of the symbolic elements and hidden messages within the story, shedding light on some intriguing theories and metaphors.

The podcast also eloquently touches upon the complexities of the digital existence in the era of social media. The conversation raises questions about our privacy and highlights the consequential aspects of our digital interactions. Important issues like online bullying and the psychological impact of social media are also addressed, stressing the need to discern the 'false reality' it presents.

Furthermore, revealing a refreshing perspective on pop culture, we share noteworthy insights relating to manipulation in media and the portrayal of 'happy' life in advertising. Then, we decant 'The Wizard of Oz' in contrast to its widely popular cinematic version, also exploring the narrative techniques in children's fantasy novels.

The conversation wraps up with a spirited critique of 'The Wizard of Oz' film, also touching upon its African American adaptation - 'The Wiz'. Offering significant insights into the casting and production, this thrilling episode leaves no stone unturned. So whether you're a fan of the original books or the picked adaptations, this episode promises a fresh and thorough perspective on the world of Oz.

The Breadwinner is a 2017 animated drama film from Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon directed by Nora Twomey. Based on the best-selling novel by Deborah Ellis, the film was an international co-production between Canada, the Republic of Ireland and Luxembourg, and received a limited release on 17 November 2017.

The film had its world premiere at the 2017 Toronto International Film Festival in September. The Breadwinner received a nomination for Best Animated Feature at the 90th Academy Awards but lost to Coco.

The House with a Clock in Its Walls is a 2018 American fantasy comedy film directed by Eli Roth, based on the 1973 novel of the same name by John Bellairs. It stars Jack Black, Cate Blanchett, Owen Vaccaro, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Sunny Suljic, and Kyle MacLachlan. The film follows a young boy, Lewis, who is sent to live with his uncle, Jonathan, in a creaky, old house. He soon learns it was previously inhabited by a villainous warlock. Universal Pictures released the film in the United States on September 21, 2018. It was a box office success, grossing over $131 million worldwide and received mostly positive reviews from critics who largely praised the cast, but said the film did not fully live up to its potential.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.22; Background History (37.50); The Breadwinner (2017) Trailer (38.37); Discussing Our Opening Feature (40.16); Let's Rate (1:44.34); Introducing Our Second Presentation (1:45.53); The House With The Clock In Its Walls (2018) Trailer (1:47.00); Lights, Camera, Action (1:49.06); How Many Stars (2:26.56); End Credits (2:36.02); Closing Credits (2:37.57)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  I Still Believe Me by Deborah Allen and Erica Gimble.  From the album Kids From Fame.  Copyright 1982 RCA Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

SEASON 2

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Planet of Giants

31 October – 14 November

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan Foreman and her teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright  are shrunk to the size of an inch after the Doctor's time machine the TARDIS arrives in contemporary England.

The Dalek Invasion on Earth

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21 November – 26 December 1964

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan Foreman and teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright  discover that the Earth in the 22nd century has been occupied by Daleks. They work with a human resistance group to stop the Daleks from mining out the Earth's core as part of their plan to pilot the planet through space.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.24); Planet of the Giants Plot Synopsis (4.40); Let's Discuss (7.57); The Daleks Invasion on Earth Background History (1953); Plot Synopsis (20.24); Let's Discuss (23.22); Let's Rate (40.46); Tune In Next Time (42.10); Closing Credits (44.54)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Giants by Calvin Harris and Rag-N-Bone Man.  Copyright 2019 Columbia Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Batman: The Animated Series

See No Evil  

Lloyd "Eddie" Ventrix is on the verge of losing his daughter, Kimberly (Elisabeth Moss), to his ex-wife, Helen, due to his past as a con artist. Determined not to lose Kimberly, Ventrix dons a suit, stolen from where he used to work while on parole, which grants the user invisibility but also becomes highly toxic and drives him insane. He poses as Kimberly's imaginary friend, Mojo, and planning to abduct her from her mother, while in a crime spree as an invisible robber. Batman must solve the mystery crimes and stop Ventrix, despite the fact that he cannot even see him.

Beware the Gray Ghost

Simon Trent, an actor best known for his past role as "The Gray Ghost", is on the verge of bankruptcy thanks to his declining career. To save himself, he sells off all of his Gray Ghost merchandise. Immediately afterwards, a series of bombings related to the old show begin to occur. Batman, having himself been inspired partly by the show to become the crimefighter he now is, goes to Trent for help, and they team up to put an end to the crimes, and also revive Trent's career.

Prophecy of Doom 

Batman investigates a cult, called the Brotherhood, founded by the "mystic" Nostromos, after hearing about a number of stories from his colleagues about his ability to predict the future. Batman finds out that Nostromos is actually a con artist who was rigging near-fatal accidents to gain the confidence of Gotham's upper class citizens, and he must expose this ruse before it is too late.

Joker’s Favor

After a man named Charlie Collins curses at the Joker on the road for offensive driving, the Clown Prince of Crime corners him and intimidates him into doing him a "small favor". Two years pass, and the Joker finally decides how to use Charlie: to sneak a bomb into the Peregrinator's Club, where Commissioner Gordon is to give a speech at an award ceremony. Charlie, who merely has to open the door, is sceptical at first, but for the sake of his family, he reluctantly decides to obey.

We are joined by Mark Krawczyk, Host of The Spoiler Room podcast.  You can follow his show or himself by going to the following websites:

https://www.specialmarkproductions.com

https://anchor.fm/spoilerroompodcast

https://twitter.com/SpecialMarkPro

https://www.instagram.com/SpecialMarkProd

https://www.tiktok.com/@specialmarkproductions

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Amazing Design Advertisement (32.25); Episode One See No Evil (33.37); Episode Two: Beware the Grey Ghost (47.24); Episode Three:  Prophecy of Doom (1:20.20); Episode Four: Joker’s Favor (1:45.57); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (2:34.15);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (2:51.43); Closing Credits (2:54.37)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  My Hero by The Foo Fighters.  Taken from the album The Color and The Shape.  Copyright 1997 Roswell – Capitol Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

In this episode of Literary License Podcast, join us as we delve into the captivating world of both the 1977 and 2016 renditions of the Pete’s Dragon films. Co-hosted by Vicki Ray and Joe Randazzo, we deliver wittily nuanced discussions about various acclaimed movie productions as well as the dynamics of fashion trends.

Our conversation open up with highlighting the unique attributes of the Pete’s Dragon films, analyzing their differences, and similarities. The discourse then progresses into issues such as AMC Theater's platinum membership offer, the acclaimed A24 films, the King Kong Godzilla movies, and an insider's look at the pre-code movies covered in 'The Spoiler Room'. Packed with fascinating insights and thoughtful analyses, we guarantee a session filled with enlightening and entertaining discussions on the cinematic world from the perspective of both a casual moviegoer and a die-hard cinephile.

In the second part of the episode, we navigate personal narratives exploring the current life situations and the longing for pre-pandemic normalcy. We further delve into a spectrum of films, from 'The Beekeeper' starring Jason Statham to the intriguing series, 'Fallout'. We conclude this segment with an engaging discourse about cinema censorship and the evolution of cinematic storytelling.

Continuing further, we reflect on popular culture and its reflection on society, serial killers, anti-heroes, and morality of beloved characters. Our discussion covers iconic sitcoms like "I Love Lucy" to "Good Times" while also analyzing disturbing narratives of Hollywood's darker side.

Heading into the final segment, we discuss the pressures of Hollywood with a special focus on childhood stars like Macaulay Culkin, Amanda Bynes, and Judy Garland. We unravel the unseen burden of fame within the industry, scrutinizing the challenging practices around film festivals and award ceremonies. Our episode ends with an in-depth review and defense of the movie, ‘Pete's Dragon’.

Join us in this roller-coaster analysis down memory lane, filled with reflections, discussions, and riveting conversations on movies, celebrities, fashion, and societal norms. Get ready for a cinematic exploration like none other!

Join us on this thrilling episode of 'Literary License Podcast' as we delve deep into the mystique and intriguing world of anthologies. Our delightful chat navigates through the classic and contemporary representations of anthologies, focusing on the acclaimed 2005 neo-noir crime anthology film, Sin City and the 2015 horror anthology, Southbound.

Packed with humor, insightful discussions, and profound observations, we dissect the narrative of 'Sin City' with its raw emotion, dramatization, and unique color processing, applauding performances by Jessica Alba, Mickey Rourke, and Bruce Willis. We also dissect its comic book origins and reflect upon the professional journeys of these Hollywood veterans.

The conversation takes a chilling turn as we transition to Southbound, an otherworldly anthology film that leaves a haunting impression. We unfold the impeccable blend of horror tropes and creative narrative twists, and take a deep dive into its intriguing concept of karmic retribution. From discussing monstrous creations to memorable moments that induce a purgatory-like ambience, Southbound is enthusiastically appreciated on this podcast episode.

Whether you're a film enthusiast or a casual listener, join us as we travel down this captivating path of anthologies, deconstructing one alluring story at a time. Tune in to our deep discussions on 'Sin City' and 'Southbound', and stay glued for the upcoming episodes exploring the timeless classics and contemporary thrills in the world of horror and drama.

Batman: The Animated Series – I Got Batman In My Basement/Heart of Ice/Cat and the Claw Part 1 & 2

I’ve Got Batman In My Basement

During a fight with Batman over a stolen Fabergé egg, the Penguin incapacitates Batman with poison gas. The Dark Knight is rescued by a teenage amateur detective named Sherman Grant and his friend Roberta, who hide Batman in Sherman's basement long enough for him to recover before the Penguin finds them.

Heart of Ice

Bitter scientist Victor Fries, as Mr. Freeze, attacks several divisions of GothCorp, each time stealing a piece for a secret weapon he intends to build. Batman investigates the connections, and discovers that the start of Freeze's vendetta against GothCorp was a bitter falling out between Fries and GothCorp's CEO, Ferris Boyle (Mark Hamill), during which Boyle almost killed Fries (mutating him into Freeze) and presumably killed Fries' terminally ill wife, Nora. Batman must find a way to bring Boyle to justice before Freeze carries out his revenge.  This episode won the 1993 daytime Emmy for most Outstanding Script.

The Cat and the Claw Part 1

Batman encounters a new cat burglar calling herself Catwoman, and around the same time, meets a woman named Selina Kyle (as Bruce Wayne), to whom he is visibly attracted. When Selina runs into trouble with a terrorist group known as The Red Claw, who want the mountain lion sanctuary she was trying to protect, she decides to take matters into her own hands and investigate.

The Cat and the Claw Part 2

The leader of the Red Claw group (known herself only as Red Claw) attacks a military train and steals a viral plague, which she intends to release in Gotham if she isn't paid a ransom, and Batman and Catwoman must put aside their differences and work together to stop Red Claw before it is too late.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.30); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:03.41)I Got Batman In My Basement (1:04.53); Heart of Ice (1:28.26); The Cat And The Claw Part 1 (2:02.09); The Cat and The Claw Part 2 (2:25.02); Favourite Episode (3:00.06); Favourite Character (3:03.19);Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel (3:06.47); Closing Credits (3:08.13)

Opening Credits– Batman Animated Theme by Danny Elfman.  Copyright 1992 Warner Music 

Closing Credits:  God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman by Barenaked Ladies with Sarah McLaughlin.  Taken from the album Barenaked For The Holiday.  Copyright 2004 Concord Vangard Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. 

Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Literary License Podcast's Book to Screen series, where we delve into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl's children's classic, "The Witches". Join us as we embark on a thrilling journey through the book's spine-chilling realm where child-hating witches and humans coexist. This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the book's plot, critical reception, and notable adaptations, unveiling the unique blend of humour, fright, and moral lessons that mark Dahl's storytelling.

Joined by passionate reader Leandro Ghezzi, we discuss Dahl's distinctive portrayal of witches and draw parallels between the characters and real-world figures. We also tackle the controversy around the modifications in Dahl's books by Puffin Books aimed at appealing to modern audiences and delve into the changes made in "The Witches". The conversation extends to a comparison with the original Grimm fairy tales, and the impact of their dark and ambiguous endings.

Engage in our riveting discussion around Dahl's creativity, the debate over censoring his books, and the enduring charm of his dark tales that have influenced generations. We explore the enduring appeal of classics from authors like Dr. Seuss and Roald Dahl, debate the perspective of viewing old works through a modern lens, and express concern over attempts to modify books in the name of political correctness.

We also provide an in-depth review of the 1990 film adaptation of "The Witches" starring Anjelica Huston and discuss on how Dahl's narratives have been translated on screen. The debate explores the age-old question – do children’s literature and film adaptations really need happy endings? Ride along on this literary exploration as we delve deeper into the magical world created by the prodigious author, Roald Dahl.

Join Leandro Ghezzi and Keith Chawgo in The Literary License Podcast as they delve into the captivating world of Maurice Sendak's timeless classic, 'Where the Wild Things Are'. The hosts offer an enlightening exploration of the seemingly simple 1963 children's book, uncovering its deeper meanings and themes, an invaluable reflection of children's emotions and their journey of taming these feelings.

Focusing on the journey of Max, the main protagonist of the story, they examine his dynamics with the various characters he encounters during his fantastical adventure. Drawing parallels with the struggles faced by young adolescents such as feelings of neglect, loneliness, and frustration, the podcast episode provides intriguing insights into the personal growth of Max and the complexities of his evolving relationships.

Aside from the original children's book, the podcast also ventures into the richness of the 2009 film adaptation. Despite its unconventional narrative and slow-paced arthouse approach, the hosts appreciate how the film offers a rich tapestry of emotions and ideas, enhancing the book's emotional heft and visual appeal. Concluding the conversation, they rate both the book and the film, acknowledging their profound impact and timeless appeal.

Embark on this thought-provoking journey into the realms of childhood, fantasy, and emotion as Ghezzi and Chawgo invite you to re-enter the world of 'Where the Wild Things Are'. Come, discover the multi-layered meanings and enduring power of this beloved story in a unique listening experience that promises to incite new thoughts and perspectives.

Sinister (2012)

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Sinister is a 2012 American supernatural horror film directed by Scott Derrickson and written by C. Robert Cargill and Derrickson. It stars Ethan Hawke as a struggling true-crime writer whose discovery of videos depicting grisly murders in his new house puts his family in danger. Juliet Rylance, Fred Thompson, James Ransone, Clare Foley, and Michael Hall D'Addario appear in supporting roles.  Sinister was inspired by a nightmare Cargill had after watching the 2002 film The Ring.  Principal photography on Sinister began in Autumn of 2011 in Long Island, NY with a production budget of $3 million.[3] To add the authenticity of old home movies and snuff films, the Super 8 segments were shot on actual Super 8 cameras and film stock

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We Are Still Here (2015)

We Are Still Here is a 2015 American horror film written and directed by Ted Geoghegan and starring Andrew Sensenig and Barbara Crampton as grieving parents who find themselves the focus of an attack by vengeful spirits. The film had its world premiere on 15 March 2015 at South by Southwest.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.04); Background History (10.02);Sinister  Film Trailer (12.00); The Original (14.29); Let's Rate (41.05); Introducing the Double Feature (44.43); We Are Still Here Film Trailer (45.33); The Attraction (47.08); How Many Stars (1:05.06); Overall End Credits (1:09.28); Closing Credits (1:10.56)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Haunted by the Pogues.  Taken from the Sid and Nancy Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright  1986 Epic Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to another riveting episode of the Literary License Podcast, a retrospective to explore the fascinating world of anthology films. From the classic works of Edgar Allan Poe and H.P. Lovecraft to the cinematic masterpieces of the 1930s, anthologies have been an integral part of storytelling. This episode dives into "Night Gallery" from 1969 and the "Twilight Zone Movie" from 1983.

This discussion-rich episode also features our host's favorite "What The F***" movies, discussing the shock factors, character development, and storytelling aspects of cult classics like "I Spit on Your Grave," "Humanoids from the Deep," and the provocative "Serbian Film". This conversation is a deep dive into the realm of anthologies with reflections on iconic films. Perfect for movie buffs or anyone looking for intriguing conversation about classic films.

Listen as the hosts recount their unforgettable encounter with film director, Frank Henenlotter at a social event a few years ago. They discuss Henenlotter's unconventional filmmaking style and his unique work such as the Basket Case Trilogy. Also covered are insights into the complexities of the filmmaking business and the savvy filmmakers who played the studio system to their advantage.

Contemplate the exploration of supernatural aspects, embodied by the acclaimed film, "Night Gallery." The hosts discuss how paintings embody powerful narratives of terror and the unknown, and add their personal experiences and interpretations, making this discussion a vibrant tapestry of genres.

Engage in a comprehensive look at the history and ongoing influence of classic films and the era of afternoon television, with a deep dive into the 1930s, 40s, and early 50s classic cinema. Join us as we trace the evolution of afternoon television and witness the power of television, strategically repurposing classic movies.

A Christmas Horror Story is a 2015 Canadian anthology horror film directed by Grant Harvey, Steven Hoban, and Brett Sullivan.  It premiered on July 20, 2015, at the Fantasia International Film Festival and had a limited theatrical release on October 2, 2015, along with a VOD release.  The film is a series of interwoven stories tied together by a framework story featuring William Shatner as a radio DJ.

Tales from the Crypt is a 1972 British horror film directed by Freddie Francis. It is an anthology film consisting of five separate segments, based on stories from EC Comics. It was produced by Amicus Productions and filmed at Shepperton Studios.

In the film, five strangers (Joan Collins, Ian Hendry, Robin Phillips, Richard Greene and Nigel Patrick) in a crypt encounter the mysterious Crypt Keeper (Ralph Richardson), who makes each person in turn foresee the possible manner of their death. It is one of several Amicus horror anthologies produced during the 1970s.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.41); Background History (54.21); A Christmas Horror Story (2015) Trailer (55.24); Take One (57.13); Let's Rate (1:38.51); Introducing a Film (1:43.14); Tales From the Crypt (1972)  Film Trailer (1:45.07); Lights, Camera, Action (1:47.00); How Many Stars (3:04.06); End Credits (3:08.34); Closing Credits (3:09.45)

Opening Credits– Alex Kashadian – Copyright 2015. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Elf’s Lament by Barenaked Ladies (featuring Michael Buble).  Taken from the album Barenaked For The Holidays.  Copyright 2004 Desperation Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Dive into a riveting episode of the Literary License podcast, as the hosts nostalgically traverse the wonderful worlds of Batman: The Animated Series, Stephen King's literary universe, and fascinating pre-Code Hollywood cinema. Welcome a plethora of topics, ranging from Batman anecdotes, the storytelling prowess of Blumhouse films, voice-over artists' eccentric challenges, harsh realities of service-oriented occupations, to the intriguing journey of mail-bag job for 'The Last Drive-In'.

That's not all; our hosts also delve deep into crucial historical events, like the JFK assassination, and navigate the energetic gaming landscape with a focus on the iconic Metal Gear Solid saga. The discussion then sways into the realm of successful TV shows and films influenced by video games, the evolution of popular TV series like 'Westworld', transitioning storylines in 'The Walking Dead', and even reviews of Batman's animated episodes.

The dialogue deepens as themes of justice, misunderstood villains, law-breaking, and societal adaptiveness come to the fore. This episode serves not only as a nostalgic journey but also an exploration of broader societal themes, encapsulating everything from Gotham City's most bizarre criminals to personal anecdotes about transitioning watching experiences.

Enjoy an in-depth analysis of actors such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Steven Seagal, and Jean-Claude Van Damme, and indulge in thought-provoking conversations surrounding film controversies, personal politics, and ethical dilemmas in the world of entertainment. Essentially, this Literary License Podcast episode is perfect for anyone who loves Batman, 90's cartoons, movies, and engaging pop culture conversations.

Join the hosts of the Literary License Podcast as they explore the original and remake of a heartwarming animal adventure. In this episode, Joe Randazzo, John Wilson, Vicki Rae, and Keith Chawgo delve into The Incredible Journey (1963) and its remake, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993).

The hosts discuss the differences between the two films, focusing on the more documentary-style approach of the original versus the comedic, voice-acted remake. Special attention is given to the voice talents of Michael J. Fox, Sally Fields, and Don Amici, and how their performances impact the overall feel of the remake.

Expect insights into the filming techniques, the use of animals, and the cultural impact of both films. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney adventures or enjoy nostalgic 90s family films, this episode promises an engaging journey through the world of these beloved animal tales.

Coraline  is a dark fantasy horror children's novel by British author Neil Gaiman. Gaiman started writing Coraline in 1990, and it was published in 2002 by Bloomsbury and HarperCollins. It was awarded the 2003 Hugo Award for Best Novella, the 2003 Nebula Award for Best Novel, and the 2002 Bram Stoker Award for Best Work for Young Readers. The Guardian ranked Coraline #82 in its list of 100 Best Books of the 21st Century. It was adapted as a 2009 stop-motion animated film, directed by Henry Selick under the same name.

Coraline is a 2009 American stop-motion animated dark fantasy horror film written and directed by Henry Selick and based on Neil Gaiman's novella of the same name. Produced by Laika as the studio's first feature film, it features the voice talents of Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David, John Hodgman, Robert Bailey Jr., and Ian McShane. The film tells the story of its titular character discovering an idealized parallel universe behind a secret door in her new home, unaware that it contains a dark and sinister secret.

Just as Gaiman was finishing his novella in 2002, he met Selick and invited him to make a film adaptation, as Gaiman was a fan of Selick's The Nightmare Before Christmas and James and the Giant Peach. When Selick thought that a direct adaptation would lead to "maybe a 47-minute movie", the screenplay had some expansions, like the introduction of Wybie, who was not present in the original novel. Selick invited Japanese illustrator Tadahiro Uesugi to become the concept artist upon discovering his work when looking for a design away from that of most animation. His biggest influences were on the colour palette, which was muted in reality and more colourful in the Other World, similar to The Wizard of Oz. To capture stereoscopy for the 3D release, the animators shot each frame from two slightly apart camera positions. Production of the stop-motion animation feature took place at a warehouse in Hillsboro, Oregon. Bruno Coulais composed the film's musical score.

The film was theatrically released in the United States on February 6, 2009 by Focus Features after a world premiere at the Portland International Film Festival on February 5, and received critical acclaim. The film grossed $16.85 million during its opening weekend, ranking third at the box office, and by the end of its run had grossed over $124 million worldwide, making it the third highest-grossing stop-motion film of all time after Chicken Run and Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. The film won Annie Awards for Best Music in an Animated Feature Production, Best Character Design in an Animated Feature Production and Best Production Design in an Animated Feature Production and received nominations for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and a Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Feature Film. It has since developed a cult following in the years since its release.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.20); Background History (9.33); Coraline Plot Synopsis (10.37); Book Thoughts (12.26); Let's Rate (31.40); Introducing a Film (33.14); Coraline Film Trailer (36.35); Lights, Camera, Action (38.55); How Many Stars (1:00.24); End Credits (1:02.03); Closing Credits (1:03.30)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Dollhouse by Melanie Martinez.  Taken from the album Cry Baby.  Copyright 2015 Atlantic Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

MARCO POLO – (The Lost Story)

22 February – 4 April 1964

EPISODES:

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The Roof of the World

The Singing Sands

Five Hundred Eyes

The Wall of Lives

Rider from Shang-Tu

Mighty Kublai Khan

Assassin at Peking

The story is set in Yuan-era China in the year 1289, where the Doctor , his granddaughter Susan Foreman and her teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright meet the Italian merchant-explorer Marco Polo  and Mongolian Emperor Kublai Khan.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (1.53); Let's Discuss (3.24); Amazing Design Advertisement (41.44); Tune In Next Time (42.57); Closing Credits (43.47)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Marco Polo by Bow Wow featuring Soulja Boy.  Taken from the album New Jack City II.  Copyright 2009 LBW Entertainment – Columbia.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. 

Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Space Museum

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24 April – 15 May 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Ian Chesterton (William Russell), Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), and Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) arrive in a Space Museum on the planet Xeros, where they seek to change their fate after seeing themselves turned into museum exhibits in the future. They also become entangled in a conflict between the militaristic Moroks who run the museum, and the servile indigenous Xerons who work for them.

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The Chase

22 May – 26 June 1965

The First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his companions Ian Chesterton (William Russell), Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), and Vicki (Maureen O'Brien)—to kill them and seize the TARDIS for themselves. The Doctor and companions encounter several characters, including monsters Dracula (Malcolm Rogers) and Frankenstein's monster (John Maxim), human astronaut Steven Taylor (Peter Purves), and an android replica of the Doctor (Edmund Warwick).

Opening Credits; Introduction (.44); Introducing The Space Museum  (4.35); The Space Museum  Plot Synopsis (5.09); Discussing the Episode (7.43); Favourite Moments (12.26); Let's Rate (14.20); Introducing The Chase (16.25); The Chase Plot Synopsis (17.01); Lights, Camera, Action (20.11); How Many Stars (29.19); End Credits (30.37); Closing Credits (32.41)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Say Goodbye by S Club 7.  From the album Best:  The Greatest Hits of S Club 7. Copyright 2003 Polydor – 19

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Invisible Man (1933)

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The Invisible Man is a 1933 American science fiction horror film directed by James Whale. Based on H. G. Wells' 1897 The Invisible Man and produced by Universal Pictures, the film stars Claude Rains, Gloria Stuart, and William Harrigan. The film involves a Dr. Jack Griffin  who is covered in bandages and has his eyes obscured by dark glasses, the result of a secret experiment that makes him invisible, taking lodging in the village of Iping. Never leaving his quarters, the stranger demands that the staff leave him completely alone until his landlady discovers he is invisible. Griffin returns to the laboratory of his mentor, Dr. Cranley, where he reveals his secret to Dr. Kemp (William Harrigan) and former fiancée Flora Cranley who soon learn that Griffin's discovery has driven him insane, leading him to prove his superiority over other people by performing harmless pranks at first and eventually turning to murder.

Abbott and Costello Meet the invisible Man (1951)

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Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man is a 1951 American science fiction comedy film directed by Charles Lamont and starring the team of Abbott and Costello alongside Nancy Guild.  The film depicts the misadventures of Lou Francis and Bud Alexander, two private detectives investigating the murder of a boxing promoter.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.05); Background History (24.57); The Invisible Man (1933) Film Trailer (27.42); The Original (28.40); Let's Rate (1:29.30); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:30.52); Introducing the Double Feature (1:32.06);Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1953) Film Trailer (1:32.36); The Attraction (1:34.32); How Many Stars (2:35.40); End Credits (2:47.08); Closing Credits (2:48.25)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Invisible by Alison Moyet.  Taken from the album Alf.  Copyright 1984 CBS Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

DOA (1949)

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D.O.A. is a 1950 American film noir directed by Rudolph Maté, starring Edmond O'Brien and Pamela Britton. It is considered a classic of the genre. A fatally poisoned man tries to find out who has poisoned him and why. It was the film debuts of Beverly Garland (as Beverly Campbell) and Laurette Luez.

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DOA (1988)

D.O.A. is a 1988 American neo-noir mystery thriller film and a remake of the 1950 film noir of the same name. While it shares the same premise, it has a different story and characters. The film was directed by Rocky Morton and Annabel Jankel, and scripted by Charles Edward Pogue. The writers of the original film, Russell Rouse and Clarence Greene, share story credit with Pogue. It stars Dennis Quaid, Meg Ryan and Charlotte Rampling, and was filmed in Austin, Texas and San Marcos, Texas.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.38); Background History (18.29); DOA (1950) Film Trailer (19.44); The Original (22.11); Let's Rate (39.27); Amazing Design Advertisement (52.24); Introducing a Remake (53.36); DOA (1988) Film Trailer (54.14); The Remake (55.47); How Many Stars (1:25.07); End Credits (1:29.47); Closing Credits (1:31.26)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Dead On Arrival by Fall Out Boy.  Taken from the album Take This To Your Grave.  Copyright 2003 Fueled by Ramen

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved. Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book: To Kill A Mockingbird

   By Harper Lee

Film:   To Kill A Mockingbird (1962)

To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel by the American author Harper Lee. It was published in 1960 and was instantly successful. In the United States, it is widely read in high schools and middle schools. To Kill a Mockingbird has become a classic of modern American literature, winning the Pulitzer Prize. The plot and characters are loosely based on Lee's observations of her family, her neighbors and an event that occurred near her hometown of Monroeville, Alabama, in 1936, when she was ten.  Although the novel deals with rape and racial inequality, the book is told with warmth and humour.

The 1962 American drama film directed by Robert Mulligan. The screenplay by Horton Foote is based on Harper Lee's 1960 Pulitzer Prize–winning novel of the same name. The film stars Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch and Mary Badham as Scout. It marked the film debut of Robert Duvall, William Windom and Alice Ghostley.  It gained overwhelmingly positive reception from both the critics and the public; a box-office success, it earned more than six times its budget. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Peck, and was nominated for eight, including Best Picture.  In 1995, the film was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry as "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.33); Background History (17.50); Plot Synopsis (20.57); Book Thoughts(24.52); Let's Rate (1:33.07); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:31.42); Introducing a Film (1:37.53); Film Trailer (1:39.16); Lights, Camera, Action (1:41.55); How Many Stars (1:32.44); End Credits (2:41.44); Closing Credits (2:43.49)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Not All Heroes Wear Capes by Owl City – taken from the album Cinematic.  Copyright 2018 Sky Harbor Studios

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book:  The Talented Mr Ripley

             By Patricia Highsmith

Film:  The Talented Mr Ripley (1999)

The Talented Mr. Ripley is a 1955 psychological thriller novel by Patricia Highsmith. This novel introduced the character of Tom Ripley, who returns in four subsequent novels. It has been adapted numerous times for film, including the 1999 film of the same name.

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The Talented Mr. Ripley is a 1999 American psychological thriller film written and directed by Anthony Minghella, and based on Patricia Highsmith's 1955 novel of the same name. It stars Matt Damon as Tom Ripley, with Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett and Philip Seymour Hoffman in supporting roles.  The novel was previously filmed twice. In 1957, a one-hour version was produced for the TV anthology series Studio One, directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, though no recording survives. In 1960, a full-length film version was released, titled Purple Noon (French: Plein soleil) and directed by René Clément, starring Alain Delon in his first major role. Claude Chabrol's 1968 film Les biches ('The Does') uses many elements of Highsmith's novel but switches the gender of the main characters. The film was a critical and commercial success. It received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Law.

Opening Credits; Introduction (2.31); Background History (10.18); Plot Synopsis (10.53); Book Thoughts(15.40); Let's Rate (34.54); Introducing a Film (36.59); Film Trailer (37.48); Lights, Camera, Action (39.56); How Many Stars (1:14.52); End Credits (1:16.27); Closing Credits (1:17.27)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Tu vuò fà l'americano by Renato Carsone.  Copyright 1956 Pathe records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Worry Men

Wealthy socialite Veronica Vreeland returns from Central America bringing tiny handmade dolls for all her friends.  According to native legend, once placed under a pillow the dolls do the sleeper’s worrying for them.  Unknown to Veronica or her guests, each of the dolls contains a tiny microchip which plants hypnotic suggestions inside the sleeper’s brains, even Bruce’s. 

Sideshow

Enroute to an upstate prison, Killer Croc escapes and leads Batman on a dangerous chase through the wilderness.  After throwing Batman temporarily off his trail, the reptile-man takes refuge with a group0 of retired circus freaks and convinces them to help him.  When Batman arrives, Croc and the freaks band together to capture him. 

A Bullet For Bullock

Someone has put a hit out on Gotham’s toughest cop, Harvey Bullock.  After surviving several near misses, Bullock realises he has no choice but to reluctantly ask Batman to help him discover who is behind the murder attempts.  During their investigation Bullock learns that his gruff and mean-spirited manner has created enemies in the unlikeliest of people. 

Trial

Gotham’s deadliest criminals, The Joker, Two-Faced, Mad Hatter, The Ventriloquist, Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy among many others, kidnap Batman and put him on trial in Arkham Asylum.  The Dark Knight’s only hope rests with District Attorney Janet Van Dorn who, despite her anti-Batman stance, is forced to defend the Caped Crusader’s life as well as her own. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Episode One:  The Worry Men (49.50); Episode Two:  Sideshow (59.22); Episode Three:  A Bullet For Bollocks (1:08.26); Episode Four:  The Trial (1:15.15); Favourite Episode (1:20.40); End Credits (1:33.20); Closing Credits (1:34.03)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Let It Go by Luba.  From the album 9 ½ Weeks Motion Picture Soundtrack.  Copyright 1986 Capitol Records

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Orphanage (2007)

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The Orphanage (Spanish: El orfanato) is a 2007 Spanish gothic supernatural horror film and the debut feature of Spanish filmmaker J. A. Bayona. The film stars Belén Rueda as Laura, Fernando Cayo as her husband, Carlos, and Roger Príncep as their adopted son Simón. The plot centers on Laura, who returns to her childhood home, an orphanage. Laura plans to turn the house into a home for disabled children, but after an argument with Laura, Simón goes missing.  The film's script was written by Sergio G. Sánchez in 1996 and brought to the attention of Bayona in 2004. Bayona asked his long-time friend, director Guillermo del Toro, to help produce the film and to double its budget and filming time. Bayona wanted the film to capture the feel of 1970s Spanish cinema; he cast Geraldine Chaplin and Belén Rueda, who were later praised for their roles in the film.

Personal Shopper (2017)

Personal Shopper is a 2016 supernatural psychological thriller film written and directed by Olivier Assayas. The film stars Kristen Stewart as a young American woman in Paris who works as a personal shopper for a celebrity and tries to communicate with her deceased twin brother.  An international co-production between Belgium, Czech Republic, France and Germany,  the film was selected to compete for the Palme d'Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. At Cannes, Assayas shared the Best Director Award with Cristian Mungiu, who directed Graduation. The film was released on 14 December 2016 in France and 10 March 2017 in the United States. The film received positive reviews from critics, with particular praise for Stewart's performance.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.04); Background History (28.25); The Orphanage (2007) Film Trailer (30.11); The Original (32.05); Let's Rate (1:09.51); Introducing the Double Feature (1:16.31); Personal Shopper (2017) Film Trailer (1:17.36); The Attraction (1:19.40); How Many Stars (2:07.37); End Credits (2:18.01); Closing Credits (2:19.08)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  My Immortal by Evanescence.  Taken from the album Fallen.  Copyright 2002 Wind-Up Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

I Am The Knight

Batman falls into the depths of depression after Commissioner Gordon is shot by the Jazzman during a botched raid. Batman was meant to be present but was delayed by thugs while paying his annual visit to the site of his parents' murder. With Gordon hospitalized and near death, the Dark Knight becomes consumed by self-doubt.

Only when the Jazzman escapes custody and attempts to murder Gordon does Batman snap out of his funk. His spirit is further renewed when he encounters a young man, he'd previously given up hope on, now on the road to reform and grateful for Batman's intervention.

Off Balance

While following Count Vertigo's trail, Batman encounters comes across a mysterious woman called Talia, who was sent by her father to prevent the capture of a sonic drill that the Count stole from Wayne Enterprises. On their quest to stop Vertigo, Talia learns Batman's identity and they are forced to work together in order to fight Vertigo's effects, but the more they collaborate, the more doubts Batman has about Talia's loyalties.

The Man Who Killed Batman

While a third-rate mob stumble-bum Sidney Debris was acting as look-out for drug runners, Batman surprised him on a warehouse roof.  The two struggled, and Sid’s bumbling caused Batman to pitch off the roof and into a shed of explosive gas.  After the ensuing fire, the only thing found was Batman’s cape and cowl.  It seemed Sidney had done the impossible and become the man who killed Batman. 

Mudslide

Clayface is falling apart – literally.  His clay like body is virtually disintegrating.  Fortunately, Stella Bates, a woman scientist he knew from his movie star days, tries to stabilise Matt’s decaying form by using a rare isotope stolen form Wayne Enterprises – the irony being that Bruce Wayne would gladly help if given the chance.  But Clayface is too hateful to yield, and winds up falling into the sea, where he dissolves into nothingness. 

Opening Credits; Introduction (.56); Episode One:  I Am The Night (49.49); Episode Two:  Off Balance (57.29 ); Episode Three: The Man Who Killed Batman (1:09.54); Episode Four: Mudslide (1:18.28); Favourite and Least Favourite Character (1:37.30); Favourite Episode (1:49.17); End Credits (1:51.40); Closing Credits (1:52.50)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Off Balance by Victor Ray.  Taken from the album Off-Balance.  Copyright 2023 ZOZO records. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

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Mission To The Unknown  9 October 1965   The only standalone regular episode of the show's original run, it serves as an introduction to the 12-part story The Daleks' Master Plan. It is notable for the complete absence of the regular cast and the TARDIS; it is the only serial in the show's history not to feature the Doctor at all, although William Hartnell was still credited on-screen. The story focuses on Space Security Agent Marc Cory (Edward de Souza) and his attempts to warn Earth of the Daleks' plan to take over the Solar System.  The Myth Makers  16 October -  6 November 1965     Based on Homer's Iliad, the First Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Vicki (Maureen O'Brien) and Steven (Peter Purves) land in Troy during the Trojan War. The Doctor is captured by the Greeks and forced to formulate a plan for taking the city, while Steven and Vicki are captured by the Trojans and forced to devise a means of banishing the Greeks; the latter duo meet Katarina (Adrienne Hill), who becomes a companion by the serial's end.  

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Introduction of Mission To The Unknown (6.28); Mission to the Unknown Synopsis (7.21); Story Thoughts (9.24); Let's Rate (21.30); The Myth Makers Plot Synopsis  (23.49); Lights, Camera, Action (27.15); How Many Stars (34.05); End Credits (36.17); Closing Credits (37.15)  

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved  

Closing Credits:  Snoopy’s Christmas vs The Red Baron by The Royal Guardsmen.  Taken from the Album Snoopy and His Friends.  Copyright 1967 Laurie Records.

Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast.  

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.  

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Last Man on Earth (1964)

The Last Man on Earth is a 1964 post-apocalyptic science fiction horror film based on the 1954 novel I Am Legend by Richard Matheson. The film was produced by Robert L. Lippert and directed by Ubaldo Ragona and Sidney Salkow, and stars Vincent Price and Franca Bettoia. The screenplay was written in part by Matheson, but he was dissatisfied with the result and chose to be credited as "Logan Swanson". William Leicester, Furio M. Monetti, and Ubaldo Ragona finished the script.  The Last Man on Earth was filmed in Rome, with scenes being completed at Esposizione Universale Roma. It was released in the United States by American International Pictures. In the 1980s, the film entered the public domain. MGM Home Video, the current owners of the AIP film catalog, released a digitally remastered widescreen version of the film on DVD in September 2005.

I Am Legend (2007)

I Am Legend is a 2007 American post-apocalyptic action thriller film loosely based on the 1954 novel of the same name by Richard Matheson. Directed by Francis Lawrence from a screenplay by Akiva Goldsman and Mark Protosevich, the film stars Will Smith as US Army virologist Robert Neville. It is set in New York City after a virus, which was originally created to cure cancer, has wiped out most of mankind, leaving Neville as the last human in New York, other than nocturnal mutants. Neville is immune to the virus, and he works to develop a cure while defending himself against the hostile mutants. It is the third feature-film adaptation of Matheson's novel following 1964's The Last Man on Earth and 1971's The Omega Man.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (29.11); The Last Man On Earth (1964) Film Trailer (30.43); The Original (33.43); Let's Rate (55.39); Introducing the Double Feature (1:27.22); I Am Legend (2007) Film Trailer (1:30.10); The Attraction (1:32.44); How Many Stars (2:14.10); End Credits (2:322.03); Closing Credits (2:32.41)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  Mr Lonely by Bobby Vinton.  Taken from the album Roses are Red.  Copyright 1962 Epic Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Book: The Color Purple

   By Alice Walker

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Film:   The Color Purple (1985)

The Color Purple is a 1982 epistolary novel by American author Alice Walker which won the 1983 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award for Fiction. It was later adapted into a film and musical of the same name. The novel has been the frequent target of censors and appears on the American Library Association list of the 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books of 2000–2009 at number seventeenth because of the sometimes explicit content, particularly in terms of violence.

The Color Purple is a 1985 American epic coming-of-age period drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Menno Meyjes, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning 1982 novel of the same name by Alice Walker. It was Spielberg's eighth film as a director, and marked a turning point in his career, as it was a departure from the summer blockbusters for which he had become known. It was also the first feature film directed by Spielberg for which John Williams did not compose the music, instead featuring a score by Quincy Jones, who also produced. The cast stars Whoopi Goldberg in her breakthrough role, with Danny Glover, Oprah Winfrey, Margaret Avery, Rae Dawn Chong, Willard Pugh, and Adolph Caesar.  Filmed in Anson and Union counties in North Carolina, the film tells the story of a young African-American girl named Celie Harris and shows the problems African-American women experienced during the early 20th century, including domestic violence, incest, paedophilia, poverty, racism, and sexism. Celie is transformed as she finds her self-worth through the help of two strong female companions

Opening Credits; Introduction (2:34); Background History (17.09); The Color Purple Plot Synopsis (18.27); Book Thoughts (26.15); Let's Rate (1:27.30); Amazing Design Advertisement (1:27.55); Introducing a Film (1:37.07); The Color Purple Film Trailer (1:33.40); Lights, Camera, Action (1:34.57); How Many Stars (2:26.07); End Credits (2:31.47); Closing Credits (2:34.21)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  The Color Purple by Jennifer Hudson and Cynthia Ervio.  Taken from the Broadway Cast Album.  The Color Purple.  Copyright 2016 TCP 2015 Broadway New Cast Recording. 

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Aztecs

23 May – 13 June 1964

The Doctor, his granddaughter Susan  and teachers Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright arrive in Mexico during the Aztec empire. Barbara becomes mistaken for the goddess Yetaxa, and accepts the identity in hope of persuading the Aztecs to give up human sacrifice, despite the Doctor's warnings about changing history.

Opening Credits; Introduction (1.29); Plot Synopsis (6.25); Let's Discuss (10.23); Favourite Character (23.05 ); Let's Rate (25.32); Tune In Next Time (26.26); Closing Credits (28.38)

Opening Credits– Doctor Who Theme. composer Ron Grainer and realised by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Copyright 1963 BBC World Music.

Closing Credits:  Human Sacrifice by Sweetbox.  Taken from the album Jade.  Copyright 2002 Avex Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission.

All songs available through Amazon Music.

The Women (1939)

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The Women is a 1939 American comedy-drama film directed by George Cukor. The film is based on Clare Boothe Luce's 1936 play of the same name, and was adapted for the screen by Anita Loos and Jane Murfin, who had to make the film acceptable for the Production Code for it to be released.  The film stars Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell, Paulette Goddard, Joan Fontaine, Lucile Watson, Mary Boland, Florence Nash, and Virginia Grey. Marjorie Main and Phyllis Povah also appear, reprising their stage roles from the play. Ruth Hussey, Virginia Weidler, Butterfly McQueen, and Hedda Hopper also appear in smaller roles. Fontaine was the last surviving actress with a credited role in the film; she died in 2013. It is also important to note that even the animals and pets are all female.  The film continued the play's all-female tradition—the entire cast of more than 130 speaking roles was female. Set in the glamorous Manhattan apartments of high society evoked by Cedric Gibbons, and in Reno, Nevada, where they obtain their divorces, it presents an acidic commentary on the pampered lives and power struggles of various rich, bored wives and other women they come into contact with.  Filmed in black and white, it includes a six-minute fashion parade filmed in Technicolor, featuring Adrian's most outré designs; often cut in modern screenings, it has been restored by Turner Classic Movies. On DVD, the original black-and-white fashion show, which is a different take, is available for the first time.

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The Opposite Sex (1956)

The Opposite Sex is a 1956 American musical romantic comedy film shot in Metrocolor and CinemaScope.[3][4] The film was directed by David Miller and stars June Allyson, Joan Collins, Dolores Gray, Ann Sheridan, and Ann Miller, with Leslie Nielsen, Jeff Richards, Agnes Moorehead, Charlotte Greenwood, Joan Blondell, and Sam Levene.

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The Opposite Sex is a remake of the 1939 comedy film The Women. Both films are based on Clare Boothe Luce's original 1936 play.

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Unlike the 1936 play and the 1939 film adaptation, The Opposite Sex includes musical numbers and features male actors who portray the husbands and boyfriends, whose characters were only referred to in the previous film and stage versions.[6] This alters the structure and tone of the base storyline significantly.

Opening Credits; Introduction (.37); Background History (42.13);The Women (1939) Film Trailer (44.51); The Original (48.16); Let's Rate (1:43.07); Amazing Design (1:59.54); Introducing a Remake (2:01.07); The Opposite Sex (1956) Film Trailer (2:01.41); The Remake (2:05.22); How Many Stars (2:44.07); End Credits (2:58.26); Closing Credits (3:00.39)

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – copyright 2021. All rights reserved

Closing Credits:  There’s Always A Woman – by Kaye Ballard and Sally Mayes  Taken from the album Unsung Sondheim. Copyright 1993 Varese Sarabande

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used with Kind Permission

All songs available through Amazon Music.

Welcome to an all-new episode of the Literary License Podcast, where we bridge the gap between literature and its screen adaptations. Join us and our special guest, Leandro Gazi, as we unwrap our life experiences, delve into the intriguing world of 'Who Censored Roger Rabbit?' novel by Gary Wolf and its iconic movie adaptation 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'.

We ecstatically dig deeper into the book’s thought-provoking narrative and how it subtly interlaces political innuendos. We uncover the creative vision of Leandro and how the distinctive charm of the movie adaptation adds to the Roger Rabbit legacy. Discover the plot twists and suspenseful allegory, leading us through a maze of mysteries and unanticipated denouements in the narrative.

We then traverse the exquisite realm of 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit', directed by the genius Robert Zemeckis. Released in 1988, it was a spectacular blend of live-action and animation, earning global recognition for its visual effects, performances, and humor. We feature a detailed comparison between the original book and the film adaptation, leading to an insightful view of the whole creation process.

Our discussion takes you back to the unforgettable scenes, such as the magnetic performance of Jessica Rabbit and Eddie Valiant's thrilling adventures in Toontown. We reveal the magic behind how this film jump-started the Disney Renaissance, setting a benchmark for animation.

Lastly, ride with us on a captivating journey into the world of animation film-making. We present a critique on the process of integrating classical characters into unrelated plots, the resulting repetitiveness, and how these techniques trick the viewer's eye to create visual masterpieces. Join us as we navigate the interesting narrative loops and special effects that mesmerize audiences through decades.

Opening Credits– Epidemic Sound – Copyright . All rights reserved

Closing Credits: Why Don’t You Do Right by Benny Goodman and Peggy Lee.  Copyright 1942 Columbia Records

Section Breaks:  Soundtrack Selections from the Original Motion Soundtrack Who Framed Roger Rabbit.  Music by Alan Silverstri.  Copyright 1988 Disney Records.

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Original Music copyrighted 2020 Dan Hughes Music and the Literary License Podcast. 

All rights reserved.  Used by Kind Permission.