Nostalgium Arcanum - Episodes Tagged with “Comedy”

Monty Python's Life of Brian

Doug Lief — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0700

For Easter we look on the bright side of life with Monty Python's satirical masterpiece, "Life of Brian". Controversial and hilarious, the film uses Python's trademark silliness as a scalpel to slice open dogma and the perils of fame. We're joined by improviser Rich Baker, podcaster and magician Ned Record, and Reverend Sarah Heath (the "RevCovery" podcast, @revsarahheath) to worship at the Church of Briantology and celebrate the life of a man who's not the messiah. He's a very naughty boy.

To dive deeper into this films, the Pythons, and religion, consider watching The Great Life of Brian Debate: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUYhtJINiaY&t=4s)

For more on Ned's magic go to www.damnedrecord.com.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

If you have feedback, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All music from "Month Python's Life of Brian" by Geoffrey Burgon
"Brian Song" and "Always Look On The Bright Side of Life"

The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!

Doug Lief — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:15:00 -0700

You've seen the ad. You've seen the movie. Now listen to the podcast! Few films can boast the comedic batting average of Leslie Neilsen, and the Zucker/Abrams/Zucker team. With jokes flying so fast and furious you'd likely not catch them all on your fifth or sixth viewing, "The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!" still delivers belly laughs simultaneously smart and stupid. Guest podcaster Matt Storm a.k.a. Stormageddon ("Fun" and Games, Reignite - djstormageddon.com) joins us for a look back at one of the greatest spoofs ever made.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All music from The Naked Gun: From The Files of Police Squad! by Ira Newborn
The Star Spangled Banner as performed by Enrico Palazzo
I'm Into Something Good - Peter Noone

The Mummy (1999)

Doug Lief — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0800

He will never eat. He will never sleep. He will never stop. We unearth the unrelentingly fun 1999 iteration of "The Mummy". Whatever faults may lay in the script or its charmingly outdated CGI are sanded down like a magic Saharan whirlwind by spectacularly charming performances by future Oscar winners Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Jacob Price of the Pre-Order Bonus podcast joins our expedition to this franchise whose appeal is Universal.

Be sure to also check out our musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm. Also check out our limited-run Jim Henson series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from The Mummy by Jerry Goldsmith
Walk Like An Egyptian - The Bangles
King Tut - Steve Martin

Groundhog Day

Doug Lief — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Well its Groundhog Day... again... Part comedy, part horror, part romcom, part existential crisis, and part philosophical religious experience, Harold Ramis and Bill Murray deliver a monumental filmmaking achievement in the form of weatherman Phil Connors' unexplained incarceration on February 2. This inventive and influential film casts a shadow worthy of its prognosticating namesake rodent. We're joined by our friend Matt Powers to gather at Gobbler's Knob and celebrate why Groundhog Day still has us, babe. Watch out for that first step. It's a doozy!

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

Also, be sure to check out our recent guest appearance on the Pixel Project Radio podcast discussing "Hollow Knight". (https://linktr.ee/pixelprojectradio)

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
I Got You Babe - Sonny & Cher
I'm Your Weatherman - Delbert McClinton
Pennsylvania Polka - Frankie Yankovic and his Yanks
You Don't Know Me - Ray Charles
Almost Like Being In Love - Nat King Cole
All Score From Groundhog Day by George Fenton

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Doug Lief — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0800

It wouldn't be Christmas without Yuletide stealing, so we've got one more episode that's very revealing. The kids drop by the pod, to discuss who's Who, and give How The Grinch Stole Christmas a proper review.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from How The Grinch Stole Christmas by Theodore Geisl (lyrics) and Albert Hague (songs) and Eugene Poddany (additional music)

A Christmas Story

Doug Lief — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0800

On this episode you'll shoot your eye out as we join Ralphie, his family, and the world's sexiest lamp to revisit A Christmas Story. We drink our ovaltine with our friends from from the Media / Lit Podcast, Kris Ingersoll and Randy Allain and use our tongues for discussing a holiday classic instead of sticking them to frozen poles.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from A Christmas Story by Stan Cole

Ernest Saves Christmas

Doug Lief — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:15:00 -0800

It's time to pass the torch, knowwhatImean? We're returning to the weird world of Ernest P. Worrell as Jim Varney's blue-collar rubber face works a double shift to ensure the magic of Christmas is passed to a new generation. Guest comedian Rich Baker (@richbakeractor) and filmmaker Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis, tarikrdavis.com) join us to celebrate a comedy that knows when to step on the gas and when to hit the air brakes.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

You can find Tarik on NBC's The Amber Ruffin Show, and on his essential podcast, Brothers From Another Planet, see him perform live with Freestyle Love Soupreme.

More importantly, Tarik's short film "Doc - Race, Revolution, Relativity, and the Confessions of a Time Travelling Terrorist" is now out and you can (and should) watch it here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-uBvVgBTIY)

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Tequila - The Champs
All score from Ernest Saves Christmas by Mark Snow

Tango & Cash

Doug Lief — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:15:00 -0700

Tango & Cash typifies 1980s action excess and buddy-cop odd-couple comedy as Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell play the titular loose cannons with a complete disregard for police procedure and the laws of physics. We're joined by guest podcasters Josh Covel (Still Loading) and Dan Oster (A Podcast, But Evil) to settle scores and spew one-liners.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All score from Tango & Cash by Harold Faltermeyer
Don't Go - Yaz

The Princess Bride

Doug Lief — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:15:00 -0700

You asked for something special for our 150th episode so all we can say is "as you wish." The Princess Bride is inconceivably perfect. The film has everything - fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles, and a superlative cast and script to bring it all together. Guest comedian and filmmaker Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis, tarikrdavis.com) joins us to revisit a storybook story that demands to be told over and over.

You can find Tarik on NBC's The Amber Ruffin Show, and on his essential podcast, Brothers From Another Planet, see him perform live with Freestyle Love Soupreme.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

The Man In Me (Bob Dylan)
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All music from The Princess Bride by Mark Knopfler

Back to the Future

Doug Lief — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:15:00 -0700

What is a nostalgia podcast if not a time machine? We're firing up the flux capacitor and setting the time circuits to Back to the Future for the 40th anniversary of this seminal temporal comedy. We're joined by guest Darren Lanning (darrenlanning.com) to celebrate a film so heavy that its success was practically density.

Be sure to also check out our new monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
The Power of Love - Huey Lewis and the News
All score from Back to the Future - Alan Sylvestri
Dancin' Fool - Frank Zappa
Johnny B. Goode - Chuck Berry (or is it?)
Back in Time - Huey Lewis and the News

Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Doug Lief — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0700

We're celebrating the 50th anniversary of Monty Python and the Holy Grail as some podcasting nerds should, by quoting it to death. Guest comedians Rich Baker and Ned Record (of the Lost & Confounded podcast and www.nedrecord.com) join us to discuss the unyielding hilarity and exceptional longevity of a film that just won't take "Ni" for an answer. And there was much rejoicing!

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All Music From Monty Python and the Holy Grail by Neil Innes (songs) and De Wolfe Music

80s Movies - Part 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0800

1985 through 1989 was the best period of filmmaking, period. Each of these years produced dozens of groundbreaking, blockbusting, genre defining, and unforgettable movies, making listing our top tens nearly impossible. Our review crew of Ami Lief, Ryan Merlo, and Tania Newton join us to close out our survey course of the best, of the best, of the best.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Oh Yeah - Yello
Score from Cocktail – J. Peter Robinson
Score from Masters of the Universe – Bill Conti
Score from Robocop – Basil Poledouris
Score from The Princess Bride – Mark Knopfler
Score from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade – John Williams
Poor Unfortunate Souls – Alan Menken / Howard Ashman
Score from Big – Howard Shore
Score from The Fly – Howard Shore
The Edge of Forever – Dream Academy
Score from Pretty In Pink – Michael Gore
Score from Labyrinth – Trevor Jones
Score from The Goonies – Dave Grusin
Score from Clue: The Movie – John Morris
Score from The Wizard – J. Peter Robinson
Score from Back to the Future: Part III – Alan Sylvestri
Score from Who Framed Roger Rabbit – Alan Sylvestri
Babysitting Blues – Albert Collins
Take My Breath Away – Berlin
Score from Big Trouble In Little China – John Carpenter and Alan Howath
Don’t You Forget About Me – Simple Minds

80s Movies - Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0800

The films from 1980 to 1984, buoyed by genre hits like Star Wars, took flight with bold imaginative storytelling and state-of-the-art special effects, establishing many franchises that continue to this day. We're joined by guests Tania Newton and Ryan Merlo to rank our top ten movies from this incredible period.

If you have feedback, send it via the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Score from The Neverending Story by Giorgio Moroder & Klaus Doldinger
Score from E.T.: The Extraterrestrial by John Williams
Score from The Terminator by Brad Feidel
Score from The Empire Strikes Back by John Williams
Score from Raiders of the Lost Ark by John Williams
Score from The Karate Kid by Bill Conti
Score from Blade Runner by Vangelis
Score from Tron by Wendy Carlos
Score from Gremlins by Jerry Goldsmith
Score from Return of the Jedi by John Williams
Score from Rocky III by Bill Conti
Score from Ghostbusters by Elmer Bernstein
Ghostbusters by Ray Parker, Jr.
I’m Alright – Kenny Loggins

Innerspace

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:15:00 -0800

We're bringing you a supersized episode about a microscopic topic. Innerspace is a gigantic adventure, a zany comedy, and a sci-fi spectacle as Tuck Pendleton (Dennis Quaid) is shrunk and accidentally injected into Jack Putter (Martin Short). Guests Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) and Alex Sosin (writer/director of "The Canyon") help as go deep inside this fantastic voyage through the loony lens of Joe Dante.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Cupid - Sam Cooke
Twistin' The Night Away - Sam Cooke
Twistin' The Night Away - Rod Stewart
Inside Of You - Infinite Sorrow
All score from Innerspace by Jerry Goldsmith

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Doug Lief — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0800

John Hughes' classic Thanksgiving story about Neal Page (Steve Martin) and Del Griffith (John Candy) questing home against geography and Murphy's Law combines stellar comedic performances and a heartbreaking (and ultimately heartwarming) twist to deliver an all-time holiday classic. Guest Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) tags along with us to make a meal of a film with far more substance than its Odd Couple trappings would suggest.

Also, please stick around to the end of the episode for special guest Michael Shepherd, who joins us for a discussion on what you can do to help those struggling with homelessness this holiday season.

Check out the live, improvised version of the movie here: https://ucbcomedy.com/show/planes-trains-and-a-musical-improv-parody-live-and-livestreamed/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Six Days On The Road (Steve Earle & The Dukes)
Back In My Baby's Arms (Emmylou Harris)
Meet the Flintstones (Hoyt Curtin, Joseph Barbera and William Hanna)
Everytime You Go Away (Blue Room)
All Score From "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" by Ira Newborn
Three Coins in the Fountain (Jule Styne with lyrics by Sammy Cahn, sung by Frank Sinatra)
(There's No Place Like) Home For the Holidays - Perry Como

Ernest Goes To Camp

Doug Lief — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:15:00 -0800

Hey Vern! We're joined by writer/comedian/filmmaker Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis) to head off to Camp Kikakee with one Ernest P. Worrell. Despite its humble trappings this is, we maintain, a cinematic masterpiece. By the end of this podcast you'll know what we mean, knowwhatImean?

You can find Tarik on NBC's The Amber Ruffin Show, and on his essential podcast, Brothers From Another Planet, see him perform live with Freestyle Love Soupreme, and seek out his short film "Doc - Race, Revolution, Relativity, and the Confessions of Time Travelling Terrorist". (https://tarikdavis.com/doc-the-film)

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
So Happy Together - The Turtles
Gee, I'm Glad It's Raining - Shane Keister and Alice Keister, performed by Jim Varney
Brave Hearts - Shane Keister and Alice Keister, performed by Gary Chapman
All Score From "Ernest Goest To Camp" by Shane Keister

In Living Color

Doug Lief — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0700

In Livng Color lived up to its theme and proved you could do what you want to do. We recorded a podcast about it. Kinda like it. Like to hear it? Hear it go! Guest Jala Prendes (host of Jala-Chan' Place, Monster, Dear Monster, and Duckfeed.tv's The Level) and Dave Cox (co-host of Monster, Dear Monster) join us to revisit the memorable cast and characters of one of the most important and groundbreaking sketch comedy shows ever made.

Find Jala online at @Fireheart_Media on X and fireheartmedia.bsky.social. Her show The Level is also part of the Duckfeed.tv podcast network.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
In Living Color - Heavy D and Eddie F
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Ice, Ice, Baby - Vanilla Ice
Cause That's the Way You Livin' When You're in Living Color - by Heavy D and The Boyz

George Carlin

Doug Lief — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0700

Instead of seven words you can't say, we can't say enough good words about comedy legend George Carlin. Guest comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to pay homage to an all-time great who taught us to be excellent to each other, and to never turn off your bullshit detector.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

GUEST SHOT! Be sure to check out Nostalgium Arcanum's guest appearance this week on the Media / Lit podcast talking about the classic Star Trek: The Next Generation two-parter "The Best of Both Worlds". Resistance is futile!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
God Gave Rock And Roll To You - Wyld Stallyns

2000s Movies: Part 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:15:00 -0700

The second half of the 00s found Hollywood taking fewer big swings, but the ones that connected found an audience hungry for something bigger and better. Our review-crew of Ami Lief, Ryan Merlo, and Tania Newton are back to discuss their nostalgic cinematic memories of 2005 to 2009.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
The Dark Knight – Hans Zimmer
We’re All In This Together - Matthew Gerrard; Robbie Nevil
Mr. and Mrs. Smith - John Powell
The Illusionist – Phillip Glass
Vicky Cristina Barcelona - Giulia y Los Tellarini
The Wedding Date – Blake Neely
500 Days of Summer - Mychael Danna, Rob Simonsen
Iron Man – Black Sabbath
That’s How You Know – Alan Menken, Stephen Schwartz
Ratatouille – Michael Giacchino
Up – Michael Giacchino
Avatar - James Horner
Coraline – Bruno Coulais
A Good Year - Marc Streitenfeld
Stardust - Ilan Eshkeri
The Departed – Howard Shore
The Blind Side – Carter Burwell
Walk Hard – Dewey Cox

2000s Movies: Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0700

The first half of the 2000s was a time for building franchises, adapting IPs, and getting a jittery country back on its feet. In this episode our crew (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) join us to round-table our favorite films from 2000 to 2004 and all that jazz.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Score from “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” by Klaus Badelt and Hans Zimmer
All Score from “The Butterfly Effect” by Michael Suby
All Score from “Frequency” by Michael Kamen
All Score from “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Edward Shearmur
“Cell Block Tango” by John Kander and lyrics written by Fred Ebb
All Score from “Donnie Darko” by Michael Andrews
All Score from “National Treasure” by Trevor Rabin
All Score from “The Others” by Alejandro Amenábar
All Score from “Black Hawk Down” by Hans Zimmer
All Score from Ocean’s Eleven by David Holmes
All Score from “Miss Congeniality” by Edward Shearmur
All Score from “Legally Blonde” by Rolfe Kent
All Score from “The Notebook” by Aaron Zigman
Fly by Lenny Kravitz
Keep Your Hands to Yourself by The George Satellites
All Score from “Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone” by John Williams
All Score from “The Patriot” by John Williams
All Score from “Spirited Away” by Joe Hisaishi
All Score from “Love Actually” by Craig Armstrong
All Score from “Spider-Man 2” by Danny Elfman
All Score from “Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind” by Jon Brion
All Score from “I Am Sam” by John Powell
All Score from “Remember the Titans” by Trevor Rabin
All Score from “The Lord of the Rings” by Howard Shore
“All That Jazz” by John Kander and lyrics written by Fred Ebb

Friends

Doug Lief — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0700

Could our 100th episode BE any bigger? We're tackling one of the most popular television shows of all time. Our friend podcaster Case Aiken (Another Pass, Men of Steel) is there for us, along with many other past guests of the show dropping by to grab a cup of coffee and share their memories of this classic 90s sitcom. If you have fond memories of the show, tell us how you doin' and send some feedback.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
I'll Be There For You (The Rembrandts)
Smelly Cat (Phoebe Buffay)

UHF

Doug Lief — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0700

We become parodies of ourselves as Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) joins us to revisit UHF, Weird Al Yankovic's cult classic about weird people trying to run a weird tv station for a non-weird world. As a bonus treat, we've included some old audio of our interview with Weird Al himself, so you get to drink from THE FIREHOSE (of podcast content)!!!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
UHF - Weird Al Yankovic
Beverly Hillbillies - Weird Al Yankovic (parody of Money For Nothing by Dire Straits)
All score from UHF by John Du Prez

3 Ninjas

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Hi-ya! We kick back with Josh Covel of the Still Loading podcast to knuckle up with Rocky, Colt, and Tum-Tum on their first adventure. The film hit hard in the early 90s with its blend of kid power, high kicks, and hijinks.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Kid Power - Richard Marvin and Will Roc
All score from 3 Ninjas by Richard Marvin
Ninja Training Academy - Ryan Raddatz

South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut

Doug Lief — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

South Park, CO may be a quiet mountain town but decades on it remains the locus for satire, profanity, and the occasional doomsday prophesy. Friendly faces Dave Jackson (the Tales From the Backlog podcast) and comedians Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) and Rolland Lopez (@rollandlopezvoiceactor) join us to go down to South Park and have ourselves a time with their 1999 musical feature outing that fully let Trey Parker and Matt Stone off the leash of basic cable.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All songs from South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Mark Shaiman

Suck my balls!

90s Movies - Part 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

We conclude our survey course of 90s movies by revisiting the late teens of our crew of guests (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) for those films that challenged us and shaped us into who we are. Once again, our lists feature fan favorites and hidden gems alike.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Where Is My Mind – The Pixies
Hackers – Score by Simon Boswell
Out There – Alan Menken / Stephen Schwartz (Performed by Tony Jay and Tom Hulce)
These Eyes – The Guess Who
Liar Liar – Score by John Debney
Sliding Doors – Score by David Hirschfelder
Se7en – Score by Howard Shore
American History X – Score by Anne Dudley
Ever After – Score by George Fenton
Die Hard With A Vengeance – Score By Michael Kamen
Face/Off – Score by John Powell
The Matrix – Score By Don Davis
Braveheart – Score by James Horner
Fear – Score by Carter Burwell
Fight Club – Music by The Dust Brothers
Life Is Beautiful – Score by Nicola Piovani
The Truman Show – score by Burkhard Dallwitz, Philip Glass, and Wojciech Kilar
Amish Paradise - “Weird” Al Yankovic

90s Movies - Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 27 May 2024 01:00:00 -0700

On this episode our crew (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) join us for the first of a two-part roundtable of our top ten 90s films. This part focuses on movies released from 1990 to 1994. See if your favorites line up with ours, and perhaps you'll find a few hidden gems you may have missed.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Misirlou – Dick Dale
Green Onions – Booker T. & the M.G.'s
The Lion King score by Hans Zimmer
The Fugitive score by James Newton Howard
Low Rider – War
The Man In The Moon score by James Newton Howard
The Joy Luck Club score by Rachel Portman
Oh Happy Day – St. Francis Choir featuring Ryan Toby
Schindler’s List – Score by John Williams
The Silence of the Lambs – Score by Howard Shore
Philadelphia – Score by Howard Shore
Be Our Guest – Howard Ashman / Alan Menken
Candyman – Score by Phillip Glass
The Shawshank Redemption – Score by Howard Shore
Jurassic Park – Score by John Williams
Wes Craven’s New Nightmare – Score by Patrick Lussier
Forrest Gump – Score by Alan Sylvestri
Point Break – Score by Mark Isham
I Got You Babe – Sonny and Cher

Blazing Saddles

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 May 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Mel Brooks' crowning achievement, Blazing Saddles blazed a trail and confronts racism with equal parts ferocious satire and wild cartoon abandon. Writer/comedian/filmmaker Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis) joins us to celebrate 50 years of this film's uncompromising hilarity and empathy. We are awake, but we are very puzzled.

You can find Tarik not only on NBC's The Amber Ruffin Show, but on his essential podcast, Brothers From Another Planet, see him perform live with Freestyle Love Soupreme, and seek out his short film "Doc - Race, Revolution, Relativity, and the Confessions of Time Travelling Terrorist".

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Blazing Saddles (Mel Brooks / John Morris)
I Get A Kick Out Of You (Cole Porter, sung by Cleavon Little)
Camptown Races (Stephen Foster, sung by Slim Pickens)
The Ballad of Rock Ridge (Mel Brooks)
Merrily We Roll Along (Charlie Tobias, Murray Mencher, and Eddie Cantor)
I'm Tired (Mel Brooks)
The French Mistake (Mel Brooks)
All score from Blazing Saddles by John Morris
National Brotherhood Week (Tom Lehrer)

Monty Python's Flying Circus

Doug Lief — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0700

And now for something completely different. Monty Python's Flying Circus redefined comedy from the subatomic level up with sketches that were quotable, absurd, and of course, funnier than a dead parrot full of spam. Guest comedians Rich Baker and Ned Record (of the Lost & Confounded podcast and www.nedrecord.com) join us to roundtable our top 10 Python sketches. Burma!

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
The Liberty Bell - John Phillips Souza, performed by Band of the Grenadier Guards
Bruces' Philosophers Song - Eric Idle
Cheese Shop Bouzouki Music - Joe Moretti
All other music composed for Monty Python's Flying Circus by Neil Innes and Fred Tomlinson Singers

The Big Lebowski

Doug Lief — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0700

The Dude abides, and his stupefying tale from the Coen Brothers continues to make people laugh to beat the bend... parts anyway. Little Lebowski Urban Achievers Dylan Ris (www.lostmoonradio.com) and Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) join us to revisit this inside-out noir tale of bowling, kidnapping, and beverages in need of saving. You see what happens? You see what happens when we make a podcast?

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
The Man In Me - Bob Dylan
Tumblin' Tumbleweeds - Bob Nolan, performd by Sons of the Pioneers
Hotel California - Don Felder, Don Henley, Glenn Frey, performed by the Gipsy Kings
Requiem in D Minor: Introitus and Lacrimosa - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, performed by The Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir
Run Through the Jungle - John Fogerty, performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Traffic Boom - Piero Piccioni
Oye Como Va - Tito Puente, performed by Santana
I Got It Bad & That Ain't Good - Duke Ellington and Paul Francis Webster, performed by Nina Simone
Stamping Ground - Moondog & Orchestra
Dead Flowers - Townes Van Zandt cover, originally by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards)
Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In) - Mickey Newbury, performed by Kenny Rogers and the First Edition

Ghostbusters 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Too hot to handle, too cold to hold. Ghostbusters 2 is a sequel that's anything but paint-by-numbers. We're gonna call superfans Dylan Gregory and Tania Newton to blow some positively-charged slime all over a film that keeps on lifting us higher and higher.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
Ghostbusters - Ray Parker, Jr.
On Our Own - Bobby Brown
Your Love Keeps on Lifting Me (Higher and Higher) - Howard Huntsberry
Your Love Keeps on Lifting Me (Higher and Higher) - Jackie Wilson
All Other Score By Randy Edelman

Happy Gilmore

Doug Lief — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0700

The price is right for this classic golf comedy in which Adam Sadler tees off on everyone and everything in his path. Guest Dave Jackson (Tales From The Backlog - @TFTBLpod) joins us to revisit a movie that never fails to take us to our happy place.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Tuesday's Gone (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
Endless Love (Lionel Richie)
We've Only Just Begun (Paul Williams / Roger Nichols, sung by Carl Weathers)
All score from Happy Gilmore by Mark Mothersbaugh

Spaceballs

Doug Lief — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0800

Spaceballs? Oh shit, there goes the podcast! Guest and master of the Schwartz Matt Storm a.k.a. Matt Stormageddon joins us for a look back at Star Wars as filtered through Mel Brooks' mastery of vaudeville, satire, and moichandizing!

Find links to all of Matt's great work including podcasts "Fun" and Games, Screen Snark, and Reignite here: https://linktr.ee/dj_stormagedddon

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All score from Spaceballs by John Morris
Hello! Ma Baby (Joseph E. Howard / Ida Emerson)
Spaceballs (The Spinners)

Mitch Hedberg

Doug Lief — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0800

If stand-up comedy was an equation then Mitch Hedberg was its Isaac Newton, a pioneer who turned the format on its head and make jokes into jazz and vice versa. Comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to revisit Hedberg's tragically brief career, and the stand-up revolution he quietly raged.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
Outro - Upright Bass Solo by Davie504

Ghostbusters

Doug Lief — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0800

Who ya gonna call? For 40 years the story of blue-collar scientists with unlicensed nuclear accelerators exterminating paranormal threats has offered thrills, chills, and spills (of self-cooking eggs and marshmallow goo). On this episodes guests Dylan Gregory and Dan Oster (MadTV) join us to revisit why this comedy classic still has us in a trap four decades on. Grab a big twinkie and join us!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Ghostbusters - Ray Parker, Jr.
Disco Inferno - The Trammps
All score from Ghostbusters by Elmer Bernstein

My Best Friend's Wedding

Doug Lief — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0800

My Best Friend's Wedding is, despite its trappings, not a romantic comedy. The film cleverly subverts expectations by making the villain appear to be the protagonist, making a happily never after the proper ending. We're joined again by Ami Lief and Ryan Merlo to revisit Julie Roberts doing worst what she usually does best.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Wishin' and Hopin written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, sung by Ani DiFranco
I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, "sung" by Cameron Diaz
I Say a Little Prayer written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, sung by The Cast of My Best Friend's Wedding
The Way You Look Tonight written by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields
All score from My Best Friend's Wedding by James Newton Howard

Clue: The Movie

Doug Lief — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0800

The classic whodunnit game became a classic whodunnit comedy. Guests comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) and Ami Lief roll the dice and try to make a long story short to solve the mystery of who, where, and what makes this film so great. Hint, a lot of the credit goes to the legendary Tim Curry.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Find Ami's spectacular handmade jewelry at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Sh-Boom (The Chords, performed by The Crew Cuts)
Shake, Rattle & Roll (Jesse Stone, performed by Bill Haley and the Comets)
All score from Clue: The Movie by John Morris

Closing Sketch (Guess Who?: The Movie) by the Dickheads: https://youtu.be/I_JA0oHCCoA?si=v4sciGlikIa896pM

Muppet Treasure Island

Doug Lief — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Shiver me felt timbers! We're shovin' off for adventure as Josh Covel of the Still Loading podcast (@StillLoadingPod) joins our crew to revisit the Muppets' take on the Robert Louis Stevenson classic. The Muppets' unique brand of humor is in full force as they battle the scenery-chewing performance of scenery-chewing legend Tim Curry.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Sailing for Adventure (Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil)
Shiver My Timbers (Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil)
Cabin Fever (Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil)
A Professional Pirate (Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil)
Love Led Us Here (Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil)
Rainbow Connection (Paul Williams, sung by your host, Doug Lief)
All score from Muppet Treasure Island by Hans Zimmer

It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Doug Lief — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Good Grief! It's finally Halloween and that means it's time for comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) to join our yearly vigil in the seasonal Peanuts special that is the most sincere.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Linus and Lucy (and all other score) by Vince Guaraldi
Charlie Brown (The Coasters)

Calvin and Hobbes

Doug Lief — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Arguably the greatest comic strip of all time, Bill Watterson's masterpiece Calvin and Hobbes melded artistic mastery, comedic timing, and most of all the profound sense of wonder at the heart of our collective childhoods. Guest Case Aiken of the Certain Point of View podcast network joins us to go exploring in its timeless wilderness. Yukon Ho!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Calvin and Hobbes (J.J. Heller)
Calvin and Hobbes (Max D)

Impressions

Doug Lief — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Gifted impressionists Dan Oster (@senatordanoster from MadTV and A Podcast, But Evil) and Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) join us to discuss our favorite impressions, how we got started, and be all (and whoever) that we can be.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
The Impression That I Get - Mighty Mighty Bosstones

My Cousin Vinny

Doug Lief — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Hailed by audiences and lawyers alike, My Cousin Vinny has been sustained while other legal comedies have been overruled. Returning guest Ami Lief brings her best Marisa Tomei impression along with lifelong friend Ryan Merlo to celebrate, quote ad nauseum, and happily render a verdict in favor of this classic.

If you youts have feedback, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Ami's beautiful earrings can be found at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Yo Cousin Vinny (Joe Pesci)

Buffy The Vampire Slayer (Series)

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Slayers gonna slay as paranormal fiction writer Betsy Allen joins our Scooby Gang to revisit TV's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", where our heroes face off against the undead, the unholy, and all the awkward emotional garbage the life slings at you as you grow from a teenager to an adult. This series created a unique blend of quippy dialogue, interpersonal drama, and things that go bump in the night, that renders it unique and deeply personal to all who have been ensorceled by its charms.

If you're a watcher (or in this case, a listener) and have feedback, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

And please check out Betsy's writing here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08PTRRT1B?ingress=0&visitId=3f9ec9cc-a038-429c-990d-0e1ad6fc555a

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Buffy The Vampire Slayer Theme - Nerf Herder
Rest In Peace - Joss Whedon
Going Through The Motions (Joss Whedon)
They Got The Mustard Out (Joss Whedon)
I'll Never Tell (Joss Whedon)
Under Your Spell (Joss Whedon)
Through The Fire (Joss Whedon)
All other Buffy score by Christophe Beck or Thomas Wanker

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Doug Lief — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

We time travel back to 1991 with comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) and storm-chaser Ken Cole (@kenergycole) to ensure that John Connor and his incredible story stay alive. Join us for a look back at one of the greatest sequels, sci-fi, and action movies ever made.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Terminator 2 score by Brad Feidel
I Need Your Clothes, Your Boots, and Your Motorcyle (Austrian Death Machine)

Rocky IV

Doug Lief — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

For our 4th of July special it's the U.S. vs. U.S.S.R. and also this time, it's personal as the Italian Stallion faces off against his toughest opponent yet, Ivan Drago. Returning guest Tania Newton and her brother, Jonathan Cardoso, get in the ring with us to discuss one of the most successful sports films of all time. Also there's a robot for some reason.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Hearts on Fire (Jon Cafferty)
All Score From Rocky IV by Vince DiCola
Living in America (James Brown)
Rocky IV: The Musical (Jon and Al Kaplan)

Jurassic Park

Doug Lief — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0700

We spared no expense for Jurassic Park's 30th anniversary. Guests Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) and clever girl Ami Lief (etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo) hold onto their butts to gush over an adventure 65,000,000 years in the making. I

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Jurassic Park score by John Williams
Jurassic Park (Weird Al Yankovic, parodying MacArthur Park by Jimmy Webb)

Superman: The Movie

Doug Lief — Mon, 22 May 2023 01:00:00 -0700

It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's special guest Ken Cole (@kenergycole) joining us to discuss the superhero and his movie who set the template for all comic adaptations to come. Richard Donner's masterful tone and Christopher Reeve's powerful empathetic performance as Superman brings a legend to life, and you will believe a man can fly.

Send feedback up, up, and away to the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Also, check out Ken's work at https://www.youtube.com/@KenCole, including KenCast. Finally, if you want a little extra bonus content, download the Lex Luthor episode of our sister show, A Podcast But Evil.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All other score from Superman: The Movie by John Williams

Homestar Runner

Doug Lief — Mon, 15 May 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Everybody! Everybody! This week Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to click our way through Homestar Runner, a veritable witch's brew of inside jokes, songs, and games which exemplifies the dadaism of early 2000s internet flash cartoons.

Do not send feedback to Strong Bad. Instead, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Everybody! Everybody! (The Brothers Chaps)
Trogdor (The Brothers Chaps)
Because It's Midnight (Limozeen)
The Ballad of the Sneak (The Brothers Chaps)
Circles (The Brothers Chaps)
Uptown Funk / Fhqwhgads Mashup by Deep V (Mark Ronson / Bruno Mars / The Brothers Chaps)

Adventures in Babysitting

Doug Lief — Mon, 08 May 2023 01:00:00 -0700

And it's so hard babysitting these guys! This week we provide supervision to guests Ami Lief (https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo), Ryan Merlo, and Tania Newton to revisit a Chris Columbus classic where anything that can go wrong for Elizabeth Shue does.

If you have feedback, send the blues to the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Babysitting Blues (Mark Mueller and Robert Kraft)
Adventures in Babysitting score by Michael Kamen
Expressway to Your Heart (Southside Johnny and the Jukes)
Bring It On Home To Me (Sam Cooke)
Then He Kissed Me (The Crystals)
The Mighty Thor Theme (Jack Urbont)

Gargoyles

Doug Lief — Mon, 01 May 2023 01:00:00 -0700

The night time is the right time for Disney's Gargoyles, a grittier, serialized tale of noble creatures who turn from stone to flesh at sundown. Special guest Amy Baum joins us to discuss the ongoing battle between these winged medieval warriors and your AP English class.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Gargoyles Score by Carl Johnson

Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead

Doug Lief — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0700

We're right on top of that, Rose, as Ami Lief (etsy.com/shop/momobunnysmoreco) and Rich Baker (@richbakeractor) join us for a wholly unsupervised retrospective on Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead, a 90s cult classic about faking it until you're making it - and by it we mean court jester school uniforms.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead by David Newman
The Twilight Zone Theme (Marius Constant)
Draggin' The Line (Cameron Dye cover of the Tommy James & the Shondells original)
Animaniacs Score by Richard Stone
Cock Mobster (MC Paul Barman)

My So-Called Life

Doug Lief — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0700

We gathered together a full clique to discuss 90s high school drama My So-Called Life. Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Kristin Perez revisit this emotionally raw show that still resonates, even though it never even completed its freshman season.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Late At Night (Buffalo Tom)
All other music from My So-Called Life (W. G. Snuffy Walden)

Fallen Angels

Doug Lief — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis) of The Amber Ruffin Show and the Brothers From Another Planet podcast snoops on Fallen Angels. It's a forgotten but star-studded Showtime noir anthology series that adapts the best writers of the genre in an exploration of the dark underbelly of post-WW2 Los Angeles. If you have even a passing interest in classic detective fiction you owe it to yourself to seek out this series. All but one episode can be found on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xjm1PtVmiAs&list=PLP7_eREdOsFxH-uKmHNL6juaBMlC2ba9d

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Fallen Angels Theme (Elmer Bernstein)
Dead End For Delia Score (Peter Bernstein)
Flypaper Score (Peter Bernstein)
Fearless Score (Peter Bernstein)
I'll Be Waiting Score (Peter Bernstein)
Gravity Falls Score (Brad Breeck)

Masters of the Universe

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0700

We have the power!!! Guest Ryan Merlo joins us to revisit the 1987 live-action film and unlock the cosmic key to a world where your favorite action figures slather up in body oil and go pew-pew-pew! T

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All other score from Masters of the Universe by Bill Conti

DuckTales

Doug Lief — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Quackaroonie! On this podcast we might solve a mystery or rewrite history as junior woodchuck Rich Baker (@richbakeractor) joins us to revisit DuckTales, a-woo-oo!

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
DuckTales Theme (Mark Mueller/Jeff Pescetto)
All DuckTales score by Ron Jones, Tom Chase, Steve Rucker, Steve Zuckerman
Three Cheers for Bubba Duck (Michael Silversher and Patricia Silversher)
Gold Nuggets Are My Own Best Friend
DuckTales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp score by David Newman
DuckTales NES Moon Theme (Hiroshige Tonomura)

Saved By The Bell

Doug Lief — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Time out! Guest Dana Bowling (@danabowling of the Daily Dose of Dana Podcast) is so excited, so excited, and so scared to dish the dirt on Bayside High to the Max as we revisit a classic of Saturday morning syndication, Saved By The Bell.

Want to screech feedback to us? Find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Saved By The Bell Theme (Scott Gale)
Friends Forever (Zack Attack)

The Mysterious Cities of Gold

Doug Lief — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0800

Grab your ancient medallions and solar-powered bird jets as guest Rob Palmieri (@robthewonderful of Cartoon Clip Show) joins us for an epic archeological quest through lost civilizations and maybe the best soundtrack of any 80s cartoon. It's The Mysterious Cities of Gold.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Also, check out Rob's channel and in particular, his excellent review of MCOG: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecf2cg9RtCM&t=18s

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All other score from The Mysterious Cities of Gold by Haim Saban and Shuki Levy

Pokémon

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Gotta catch 'em all! This week Dave Jackson (of the Tales From The Backlog podcast - @TFTBLPod) evolves into Dave Jacksazaard to discuss the global megafranchise all about turning cute little Pikachus into weapons of mass destruction.

If you have feedback, send a Pidgedot to the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Pokémon TV Theme (Jason Paige)
Pokémon Red & Blue Opening (Junichi Masuda)
Pallet Town Theme (Junichi Masuda)
Pokémon TV Series Score (Shinji Miyazaki)
Pokémon: The First Movie Score (Shinji Miyazaki)
Pokémon Red & Blue Ending (Junichi Masuda)
Scientifically Accurate Pokémon (Heather Campbell)

Animaniacs

Doug Lief — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Hellooooooo Nurse! Guests Amy and Amir Baum join us to discuss the animan-ey, totally insane-ey, Animaniacs. Those are the facts!

If you're pondering what we're pondering, tell us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Animaniacs Theme (Richard Stone, Tom Ruegger)
Yakko's World (Randy Rogel)
Goodfeathers Theme (parody of "That's Amore" by Harry Warren)
Rita and Runt Theme (Richard Stone, Tom Ruegger)
Flat In Gay Paree (parody of "Castle on a Cloud" by Claude-Michel Schönberg)
Slappy Squirrel Theme (Richard Stone, Tom Ruegger)
Pinky and the Brain Theme (Richard Stone, Tom Ruegger)

Gremlins

Doug Lief — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Guest Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to discuss the three essential rules for mogwai care as we revisit 1984's "Gremlins", a classic tale of overpopulation that seamlessly blends horror, comedy, sci-fi, and Christmas.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

For extra info, check out this video chronicling easter eggs throughout the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDppBHOpkmM

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Gremlins Theme (Jerry Goldsmith)
Pigs is Pigs (Oliver Wallace)
Gizmo's Theme (Jerry Goldsmith)
Heigh Ho (Frank Churchill / Larry Morey)
After Midnight (Eric Clapton)

D2: The Mighty Ducks

Doug Lief — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0800

The quack pack quacks back as special guest Eileen O'Connell (@i_lean) joins us to revisit a Disney sports sequel that pulls off the rare hat trick of being just as fun as the original.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Also, we note this episode had some audio quality issues, but the discussion was still way too much fun to keep to ourselves. Enjoy!

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
We Will Rock You (Queen)
Mighty Ducks: The Animated Series Theme Song (Patrick DeRemer)
We Are the Champions (Queen)
Incidental score from D2: The Mighty Ducks (J. A. C. Redford)

Ren and Stimpy

Doug Lief — Sun, 25 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0800

Hello boys and girls! This is an episode about a whale!... No... This is an episode about being happy! Amy Baum joins us to feel happy happy, joy joy about the unparlelled craft and unbridled insanity of Ren and Stimpy. This cartoon stretched its characters and animation itself beyond all boundaries.

If you have feedback or want to sell us rubber nipples, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits (to the extent I could discern them):

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Ren and Stimpy Opening Theme (John Kricfalusi, Chris Reccardi, Jim Smith, Scott Huml)
The Thieving Magpie (Rossini)
SIlent Scream (Richard Allen Harvey)
Happy-Go-Lively (Laurie Johnson)
Happy Happy Joy Joy (Chris Reccardi, Charlie Brissette, John Kricfalusi)
Burl Ives (The Whale)
Burl Ives (Mother Goose Songs)
Log (Chris Reccardi, Charlie Brissette, John Kricfalusi)
The Slinky Song (Ronnie McDowell)
The Anthem of the Royal Canadian Kilted Yaksmen (John Kricfalusi, Bob Camp, and Charlie Brissette)
Big House Blues (Die Screaming Lederhosens)

The Golden Girls

Doug Lief — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0800

Pal and confidante Ryan Merlo drops by to travel down the road and back again with The Golden Girls, a timeless sitcom about the elderly that appeals to all ages.

If you want to thank us for being your friend, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Thank You For Being A Friend (Andrew Gold)

The Karate Kid

Doug Lief — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0800

Special guest and Cobra Kai youtuber Ken Cole (https://www.youtube.com/@KenCole) is the best around as we leave no leg unswept on The Karate Kid.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
You're The Best (Joe Bean Esposito)
To Be The Best (Tenacious D)
All other score from the Karate Kid by Bill Conti

The Goonies

Doug Lief — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0800

Hey you guuuyyyyyssss! Special guest Tania Newton joins our quest to find One-Eyed Willy's rich stuff as we travel beneath Astoria to unearth the true treasure, 1985's "The Goonies".

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Fratelli Chase (Dave Grusin)
The Goonies R' Good Enough (Cyndi Lauper)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)

Doug Lief — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0800

Grab a bodacious slice of sewer pizza as comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching on instagram) joins us to talk about TMNT's 1990 live-action debut. Cowabunga!

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Pizza Power (Bob Bejan, and Godfrey Nelson)
Skipping Stones (Bob Bejan, and Godfrey Nelson)

"Weird" Al Yankovic

Doug Lief — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0800

Featuring my incredibly awkward unreleased 20-year-old interview with "Weird" Al Yankovic, on this episode the podcast truly becomes a parody of itself. The whole thing is so White and Nerdy you'll Eat It. Song titles!!!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Eat It ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
The Man on the Flying Trapeze (Spike Jones)
Day-O (Stan Freberg)
The Elements Song (Tom Lehrer)
Fat ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Smells Like Nirvana ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Amish Paradise ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Polka Your Eyes Out ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Dare to Be Stupid ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Frank's 2000 Inch TV ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Bob ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Pancreas ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Jurassic Park ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
The Saga Begins ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Ode to a Superhero ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
I'm Milton Berle And I Like It (Darren Lanning)
White and Nerdy ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Polka Face ("Weird" Al Yankovic)
Yoda ("Weird" Al Yankovic)

The Simpsons: Treehouse of Horror

Doug Lief — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0700

Sure ye can handle a dead tongue, but can ye handle TWO live ones? Snorky talk Man as we close out our Halloween run with a special episode about the Simpsons' Halloween specials, with special guest Amy Baum. Special!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
The Simpsons Theme - Danny Elfman
All other musical credits from The Simpsons score by Alf Clausen.

The Fly

Doug Lief — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0700

Be afraid... Be very afraid... of a twisted fusion of sci-fi horror and romance, as well as man and insect. David Cronenberg's body horror masterpiece haunts not only for its viscerally upsetting imagery, but because that imagery is paired with strong characters and profound metaphysical questions.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from The Fly by Howard Shore
Outro music from The Simpsons by Alf Clausen

The Phantom of the Opera

Doug Lief — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0700

We've passed the point of no return as we dissect Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterpiece, the O.G., The Phantom of the Opera. The musical will soon close on Broadway after a record-breaking 35 years, over 10,000 performances, and a staggering $6,000,000,000 profit. On this episode we'll peer behind the mask to better understand why this show had such an impact and lasting legacy.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:
Intro: Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All other tracks from The Phantom of the Opera Original Cast Recording, music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Charles Hart.

Beetlejuice

Doug Lief — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700

Our first entry to the Nostalgium Arcanum is the ghost with the most. This episode we crack open the Handbook for the Recently Deceased and explore the lasting power of Tim Burton's kitschy, bureaucratic afterlife comedy.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credit:

Beetlejuice Main Title: Danny Elfman
The Book! / Obituaries: Danny Elfman
Dans Macabre: Camille Saint-Saëns
Jump in the Line: Harry Belafonte