Book Vs Movie Podcast
Margo Donohue
1 Creator
1 Creator
Book Vs. Movie is the podcast that ponders the question: "Which was better...the book or the movie?" We spoil away the details, uncover the plot points, discuss casting choices and shower with praise (or pummel with snark) as we see fit. Hosts are Margo P. (She's Nacho Mama's Blog) and Margo D. (Creator of Brooklyn Fit Chick.com) and we are not afraid to tell it like it is!
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Top 10 Book Vs Movie Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Book Vs Movie Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Book Vs Movie Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Book Vs Movie Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Valley Girl (1983) Nicolas Cage, Deborah Foreman, Martha Coolidge, and Frank & Moon Zappa
Book Vs Movie Podcast
07/09/23 • 70 min
Book Vs. Movie:
Valley GirlsThe Frank & Moon Zappa Song Vs. the 1983 Classic Film
We know that Frank Zappa did not authorize using the song Valley Girl (co-written with his 14-year-old daughter Moon Unit in 1982.) But we had to cover this movie because if there was ever a song that influenced the culture of the early 80s --this was it.
Moon Zappa is the oldest child of the late Frank Zappa, and after spending most of her childhood waiting for her dad to make time for her, she reached out to him with his favorite love language--snarky lyrics. Using expressions from her peers in the San Fernando Valley--the Zappas created a song that lampoons the white bread, snotty culture of “Vals.”
The fact it became a hit song (and Frank’s only Top 40 single) shocked everyone involved.
The producers of the 1983 film tried to get Frank to sign the rights but only with the overall approval of the script and music. The film, directed by Martha Coolidge and starring Nicolas Cage and Deborah Foreman, became a classic teen film that must have stung Frank, who sued the producers as Valley 9000 and lost.
So what are the main differences between the song and the film? Which version did the Margos like better? Have a listen and find out!
This episode is sponsored by Baker Publishing Group, With Every Memory by author Janine Rosche:
"At its heart, With Every Memory is the story of what happens when an already-broken family loses the one person holding them together. Lori Mendenhall returns home to a family she barely recognizes after the same car accident that killed her son stole the last eight years of memories from her. Lori’s once-loving husband is a stoic workaholic with questionable intentions, and her teenage daughter has been chewed up and spit out by the world following the loss of her twin brother. As Lori’s good and bad memories resurface, she must decide whether the family she’s returned to is beyond hope. "
In this ep the Margos discuss:
Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Valley GirlsThe Frank & Moon Zappa Song Vs. the 1983 Classic Film
We know that Frank Zappa did not authorize using the song Valley Girl (co-written with his 14-year-old daughter Moon Unit in 1982.) But we had to cover this movie because if there was ever a song that influenced the culture of the early 80s --this was it.
Moon Zappa is the oldest child of the late Frank Zappa, and after spending most of her childhood waiting for her dad to make time for her, she reached out to him with his favorite love language--snarky lyrics. Using expressions from her peers in the San Fernando Valley--the Zappas created a song that lampoons the white bread, snotty culture of “Vals.”
The fact it became a hit song (and Frank’s only Top 40 single) shocked everyone involved.
The producers of the 1983 film tried to get Frank to sign the rights but only with the overall approval of the script and music. The film, directed by Martha Coolidge and starring Nicolas Cage and Deborah Foreman, became a classic teen film that must have stung Frank, who sued the producers as Valley 9000 and lost.
So what are the main differences between the song and the film? Which version did the Margos like better? Have a listen and find out!
This episode is sponsored by Baker Publishing Group, With Every Memory by author Janine Rosche:
"At its heart, With Every Memory is the story of what happens when an already-broken family loses the one person holding them together. Lori Mendenhall returns home to a family she barely recognizes after the same car accident that killed her son stole the last eight years of memories from her. Lori’s once-loving husband is a stoic workaholic with questionable intentions, and her teenage daughter has been chewed up and spit out by the world following the loss of her twin brother. As Lori’s good and bad memories resurface, she must decide whether the family she’s returned to is beyond hope. "
In this ep the Margos discuss:
- The effect Valley Girl (the song) had on teens at the time
- The surprising old-fashioned love story (based lightly on Romeo & Juliet)
- The outstanding soundtrack
- The cast of the 1983 film: Nicolas Cage (Randy,) Deborah Foreman (Julie,) Elizabeth Daily (Loryn,) Michael Bowen (Tommy,) Cameron Dye (Fred,) Heid Holicker (Stacey,) Michelle Meyrink (Suzi,) Lee Purcell (Beth,) Richard Sanders (Driver’s Ed teacher,) Colleen Camp (Sarah Richman,) and Frederic Forrest as Steve Richman.
- Valley Girl (Frank Zappa)
- Good Morning America, September 12, 1982, Moon & Frank Zappa interview)
- Nina Blackwood & Frank Zappa on MTV October 1981
- Valley Girl 1983 trailer)
- “I’m totally not in love with you!”
- “Let’s get out of here.”
- Meeting Julie’s dad
- Homecoming fight scene
- Music: Melt With You by Modern English
Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
2 Listeners
The Boys in the Band (1970) & (2020) Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer, Mart Crowley, & William Friedkin
Book Vs Movie Podcast
06/26/22 • 67 min
Book Vs. Movie: The Boys in the Band
The 1968 Play Vs. the 1970 & the 2020 Films
The Margos love the celebrate Pride Month and in the past, we have covered Fried Green Tomatoes, Love, Simon, and Call Me by Your Name among other titles. This time are covering a play that made a splash when it premiered off-Broadway in April 1968. The Mart Crowley story, The Boys in the Band, revolved around several gay men as they navigate life pre-Stonewall New York City. It went on to play over 1000 performances (always off-Broadway because that is how Edward Albee wanted it) and was first adapted into a film directed by William Friedkin.
Friedkin, who needed a hit at the time, hired the entire cast for the film and created a work that is remembered for being a milestone in queer cinema. Set in an apartment in Manhattan, a group of homosexual men gathers ostensibly to celebrate the birthday of one of their friends. Instead, the event becomes a tightly wound confrontation between the haves and have-nots. The beautiful and those that live a lie. It’s at times off-putting, verbose, profane, funny, and sad. The original (1970) cast lost many members to AIDS in the 80s & 90s which adds to the melancholy of a current viewing.
The 2020 Netflix version features an all-openly gay cast including Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer, Andrew Rannells, and Charlie Carver who play the same characters set in 1968 but with an updated script by Crowley and Ned Martel. It’s produced by Ryan Murphy, Martel, and director Joe Mantello.
Between the original play and the 2020 adaptation--which did we like more?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The interesting life of writer Mart Crowley
Life in the homosexual community in 1968
The 1970 cast: Kenneth Nelson (Michael,) Leonard Frey (Harold,) Cliff Gorman (Emory,) Laurence Luckinbill (Hank,) Frederick Combs (Donald,) Keith Prentice (Larry,) Robert la Tourneaux (Cowboy Tex,) Reuben Greene (Bernard,) Peter White (Alan,) and Maud Adams as a model.
The 2020 cast: Jim Parsons (Michael,) Zachary Quinto (Harold,) Matt Bomer (Donald,) Andrew Rannells (Larry,) Charlie Carvery (Cowboy,) Robin de Jesus (Emory,) Brian Hutchinson (Alan,) Michael Benjamin Washington (Bernard,) and Tuc Watkins as Hank.
Clips used:
“Harold” arrives (1970)
The Boys in the Band trailer
Harold confronts Michael
Tuc calls Larry
Donald and Michael at the end
Music by Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
The 1968 Play Vs. the 1970 & the 2020 Films
The Margos love the celebrate Pride Month and in the past, we have covered Fried Green Tomatoes, Love, Simon, and Call Me by Your Name among other titles. This time are covering a play that made a splash when it premiered off-Broadway in April 1968. The Mart Crowley story, The Boys in the Band, revolved around several gay men as they navigate life pre-Stonewall New York City. It went on to play over 1000 performances (always off-Broadway because that is how Edward Albee wanted it) and was first adapted into a film directed by William Friedkin.
Friedkin, who needed a hit at the time, hired the entire cast for the film and created a work that is remembered for being a milestone in queer cinema. Set in an apartment in Manhattan, a group of homosexual men gathers ostensibly to celebrate the birthday of one of their friends. Instead, the event becomes a tightly wound confrontation between the haves and have-nots. The beautiful and those that live a lie. It’s at times off-putting, verbose, profane, funny, and sad. The original (1970) cast lost many members to AIDS in the 80s & 90s which adds to the melancholy of a current viewing.
The 2020 Netflix version features an all-openly gay cast including Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer, Andrew Rannells, and Charlie Carver who play the same characters set in 1968 but with an updated script by Crowley and Ned Martel. It’s produced by Ryan Murphy, Martel, and director Joe Mantello.
Between the original play and the 2020 adaptation--which did we like more?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The interesting life of writer Mart Crowley
Life in the homosexual community in 1968
The 1970 cast: Kenneth Nelson (Michael,) Leonard Frey (Harold,) Cliff Gorman (Emory,) Laurence Luckinbill (Hank,) Frederick Combs (Donald,) Keith Prentice (Larry,) Robert la Tourneaux (Cowboy Tex,) Reuben Greene (Bernard,) Peter White (Alan,) and Maud Adams as a model.
The 2020 cast: Jim Parsons (Michael,) Zachary Quinto (Harold,) Matt Bomer (Donald,) Andrew Rannells (Larry,) Charlie Carvery (Cowboy,) Robin de Jesus (Emory,) Brian Hutchinson (Alan,) Michael Benjamin Washington (Bernard,) and Tuc Watkins as Hank.
Clips used:
“Harold” arrives (1970)
The Boys in the Band trailer
Harold confronts Michael
Tuc calls Larry
Donald and Michael at the end
Music by Herb Albert and the Tijuana Brass
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
2 Listeners
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958) Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman, Burl Ives, & Tennessee Williams
Book Vs Movie Podcast
06/19/23 • 80 min
Book Vs. Movie: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The 1955 Play Vs. the 1958 Classic Film
The Margos are feeling very Southern in this episode devoted to the work of Tennessee Williams and his personal favorite work--Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The 1955 play was based on his 1952 short story “Three Plays of a Summer Game” and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama during its Broadway debut. The story of the Pollitt family in the Mississippi Delta and their personal grievances and torturous secrets was considered incredibly raw and racy for the conservative 1950s.
The 1955 play was directed by Elia Kazan and starred future Dallas star Barbara Bel Geddes as Maggie “The Cat” Pollitt and Ben Gazzara as Brick Pollitt. Burl Ives (“Big Daddy”) and Madeleine Sherwood (“Sister Woman”) would go on to star in the film adaptation in 1958. Bel Geddes and Kazan were nominated for the Tony Award in the original production, and the themes of homophobia, family bonds, and sexism excited audiences then and to this day.
The film was directed and adapted by Richard Brooks during a time known as the “Hays Code,” which meant the homosexual yearnings expressed by Brick Pollitt (played by Paul Newman in the movie) for his recently deceased best friend Skipper had to be downplayed. Also, the character of Maggie (Elizabeth Taylor in an Academy Award-winning performance) is more toned down and “likable” to ensure not to offend movie-goer sensitivities.
What are the other differences between the original play and the film? Which version did the Margos like better? Have a listen!
In this ep the Margos discuss:
Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmai...
The 1955 Play Vs. the 1958 Classic Film
The Margos are feeling very Southern in this episode devoted to the work of Tennessee Williams and his personal favorite work--Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. The 1955 play was based on his 1952 short story “Three Plays of a Summer Game” and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama during its Broadway debut. The story of the Pollitt family in the Mississippi Delta and their personal grievances and torturous secrets was considered incredibly raw and racy for the conservative 1950s.
The 1955 play was directed by Elia Kazan and starred future Dallas star Barbara Bel Geddes as Maggie “The Cat” Pollitt and Ben Gazzara as Brick Pollitt. Burl Ives (“Big Daddy”) and Madeleine Sherwood (“Sister Woman”) would go on to star in the film adaptation in 1958. Bel Geddes and Kazan were nominated for the Tony Award in the original production, and the themes of homophobia, family bonds, and sexism excited audiences then and to this day.
The film was directed and adapted by Richard Brooks during a time known as the “Hays Code,” which meant the homosexual yearnings expressed by Brick Pollitt (played by Paul Newman in the movie) for his recently deceased best friend Skipper had to be downplayed. Also, the character of Maggie (Elizabeth Taylor in an Academy Award-winning performance) is more toned down and “likable” to ensure not to offend movie-goer sensitivities.
What are the other differences between the original play and the film? Which version did the Margos like better? Have a listen!
In this ep the Margos discuss:
- Playwright Tennessee Williams and how this particular story evolved
- The censoring of the original work to film
- Why the play endures.
- The cast of the 1958 film: Elizabeth Taylor (Maggie Pollitt,) Paul Newman (Brick Pollitt,) Burl Ives (“Big Daddy” Pollitt,) Jack Carson (Gooper Pollitt,) Judith Anderson (“Big Momma” Pollitt,) Madeleine Sherwood (“Sister Woman” Pollitt,) Larry Gates (Dr. Baugh) and Vaughn Taylor as Deacon Davis.
- Maggie & Brick talk about Skipper
- Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958 trailer)
- Ben Gazarra and 1955 clip Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
- Brick and Big Daddy
- “Mendacity”
- Music: Charles Wollcott
Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at bookversusmoviepodcast@gmai...
1 Listener
Election (1999) Matthew Broderick, Reese Witherspoon, Chris Klein, Alexander Payne
Book Vs Movie Podcast
08/22/22 • 57 min
Book Vs. Movie: Election
The 1998 Novel Vs. the 1999 Film
The Margos have had the Tom Perrotta novel Election on their list to cover since the podcast began in 2008, but for some reason--it was not made available until this summer. Who could forget Reese Witherspoon’s performance as Tracy Flick? Matthew Broderick's last line in the Alexander Payne movie? The story is about an ambitious woman who will win her high school presidential campaign no matter what made Witherspoon a star. Her character became an avatar for people who tried too hard and were overbearing.
Tracy believes she will easily win the election, not counting one of her teachers (Mr. M.) has it in for her; one of her fellow students is doing it as a goof (nice, but not very bright Paul Warren) while his sister (Tammy) is doing it in retaliation against Paul’s girlfriend Lisa (who used to date Tammy.) The teacher who has sex with Tracy (while his wife is pregnant!) loses his job, which makes Mr. M. angry, and he feels he needs to rob her of an election win.
Now that there is a new Perrotta novel, a sequel called Tracy Flick Can’t Win, is it time to have a new look at not only her character but also the plot in the first place? Who were the villains here? Why does Mr. M. hate her so much? The Margos have so much to unpack here!
This episode is sponsored by Kensington Books and the novel Twice a Quinceaňera by Yamile Saied Méndez.
“This book will set your dreams on fire” –praise for Yamile Saied Mendez by Reese Witherspoon for Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez.
Instead of losing the deposit on her wedding venue, a jilted bride decides to throw herself a quinceañera (times two) for her 30th birthday in this effervescent rom-com from Yamile Saied Méndez, the acclaimed author of the Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club Pick FURIA. For fans of Never Been Kissed, 13 Going on 30, and The Wedding Singer...con azucar y amor.
One month short of her wedding day—and her thirtieth birthday—Nadia Palacio finds herself standing up to her infuriating, cheating fiancé for the first time in...well, ever. But that same courage doesn’t translate to breaking the news to her Argentinian family. She’s hyperventilating before facing them when she glimpses a magazine piece about a Latina woman celebrating herself—with a second quinceañera, a.k.a. Sweet 15!
Yamile (pronounced sha-MEE-lay) Saied Méndez is an Argentinian-American Pura Belpré gold medal-winning author of picture books, middle grade, young adult, and adult fiction. An inaugural Walter Dean Myers Grant recipient, she’s a graduate of the Vermont College of Fine Arts and Voices of Our Nations (VONA). Her young adult novel, Fusia, was a Reese Witherspoon X Hello Sunshine YA Pick and she’s a founding member of Las Musas, a collective of women and nonbinary Latinx creators. Born and raised in Rosario, Argentina—to a family with roots from all over the world—she now lives in Utah with her Puerto Rican husband, five multicultural kids, two bilingual dogs, and one majestic cat. Visit her online at YamileSMendez.com. You can find her social media @YamilleSMendez
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The popularity of the movie and early Tracy Flick “memes.”
The incredible cast of the movie
The controversy around Andrew Payne
The cast: Matthew Broderick (Jim McAllister,) Reese Witherspoon (Tracy Flick,) Chris Klein (Paul Metzler,) Jessica Campbell (Tammy Metzler,) Phil Reeves (Principal Walt Hendricks,) Molly Hagan (Diane McAllister,) Colleen Camp (Judith Flick,) Nicholas D’Agosoto,) Jeanine Jackson (Jo Metzler) Holmes Osbourne (Dick Metzler,) Mark Herelik,) Delaney Driscoll (Linda Novotny,) Matt Malloy (Vice Principal Ron Ball,) Frankie Ingrassia as Lisa Flanagan,) and Pegi Georgeson as Ballot Lady.
Clips used:
Mr. M accuses Tracy of vandalizing
Election 1999 trailer
Tracy confronts Paul
Tammy gives her speech
Mr. M sees Tracy in DC
Music by Rolfe Kent
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @...
The 1998 Novel Vs. the 1999 Film
The Margos have had the Tom Perrotta novel Election on their list to cover since the podcast began in 2008, but for some reason--it was not made available until this summer. Who could forget Reese Witherspoon’s performance as Tracy Flick? Matthew Broderick's last line in the Alexander Payne movie? The story is about an ambitious woman who will win her high school presidential campaign no matter what made Witherspoon a star. Her character became an avatar for people who tried too hard and were overbearing.
Tracy believes she will easily win the election, not counting one of her teachers (Mr. M.) has it in for her; one of her fellow students is doing it as a goof (nice, but not very bright Paul Warren) while his sister (Tammy) is doing it in retaliation against Paul’s girlfriend Lisa (who used to date Tammy.) The teacher who has sex with Tracy (while his wife is pregnant!) loses his job, which makes Mr. M. angry, and he feels he needs to rob her of an election win.
Now that there is a new Perrotta novel, a sequel called Tracy Flick Can’t Win, is it time to have a new look at not only her character but also the plot in the first place? Who were the villains here? Why does Mr. M. hate her so much? The Margos have so much to unpack here!
This episode is sponsored by Kensington Books and the novel Twice a Quinceaňera by Yamile Saied Méndez.
“This book will set your dreams on fire” –praise for Yamile Saied Mendez by Reese Witherspoon for Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez.
Instead of losing the deposit on her wedding venue, a jilted bride decides to throw herself a quinceañera (times two) for her 30th birthday in this effervescent rom-com from Yamile Saied Méndez, the acclaimed author of the Reese Witherspoon YA Book Club Pick FURIA. For fans of Never Been Kissed, 13 Going on 30, and The Wedding Singer...con azucar y amor.
One month short of her wedding day—and her thirtieth birthday—Nadia Palacio finds herself standing up to her infuriating, cheating fiancé for the first time in...well, ever. But that same courage doesn’t translate to breaking the news to her Argentinian family. She’s hyperventilating before facing them when she glimpses a magazine piece about a Latina woman celebrating herself—with a second quinceañera, a.k.a. Sweet 15!
Yamile (pronounced sha-MEE-lay) Saied Méndez is an Argentinian-American Pura Belpré gold medal-winning author of picture books, middle grade, young adult, and adult fiction. An inaugural Walter Dean Myers Grant recipient, she’s a graduate of the Vermont College of Fine Arts and Voices of Our Nations (VONA). Her young adult novel, Fusia, was a Reese Witherspoon X Hello Sunshine YA Pick and she’s a founding member of Las Musas, a collective of women and nonbinary Latinx creators. Born and raised in Rosario, Argentina—to a family with roots from all over the world—she now lives in Utah with her Puerto Rican husband, five multicultural kids, two bilingual dogs, and one majestic cat. Visit her online at YamileSMendez.com. You can find her social media @YamilleSMendez
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The popularity of the movie and early Tracy Flick “memes.”
The incredible cast of the movie
The controversy around Andrew Payne
The cast: Matthew Broderick (Jim McAllister,) Reese Witherspoon (Tracy Flick,) Chris Klein (Paul Metzler,) Jessica Campbell (Tammy Metzler,) Phil Reeves (Principal Walt Hendricks,) Molly Hagan (Diane McAllister,) Colleen Camp (Judith Flick,) Nicholas D’Agosoto,) Jeanine Jackson (Jo Metzler) Holmes Osbourne (Dick Metzler,) Mark Herelik,) Delaney Driscoll (Linda Novotny,) Matt Malloy (Vice Principal Ron Ball,) Frankie Ingrassia as Lisa Flanagan,) and Pegi Georgeson as Ballot Lady.
Clips used:
Mr. M accuses Tracy of vandalizing
Election 1999 trailer
Tracy confronts Paul
Tammy gives her speech
Mr. M sees Tracy in DC
Music by Rolfe Kent
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @...
1 Listener
Touch of Evil (1958) The Film Noir classic directed by Orson Welles starring Charlton Heston & Janet Leigh
Book Vs Movie Podcast
04/05/23 • 65 min
Book Vs. Movie: Touch of Evil
The 1956 novel Badge of Evil Vs. the 1958 Film Noir Classic
The Margos dive right back into one of our favorite genres--film noir! The 1958 Orson Welles’s directed film Touch of Evil is based on a 1956 novel by Whit Masteron titled Badge of Evil. The book sold reasonably well at the time, but at the time, the movie was given mixed reviews due to Welles not staying until the final edit process.
In 1998, a “re-cut” of the film was based on a 58-page memo Welles had sent to the studio 40 years previously is now considered a modern classic and one of the last true “film noirs” to be released.
Whit Masterson was the nom de plume of two writers--Wade Miller and Will Daemer who wrote more than 30 books together (including Kitten With a Whip in 1964!) Their original story is about a man, Rudy Linneker, killed by a dynamite blast at this home. His daughter Tara stands to make $2 million and is engaged to someone her father disapproved of before her death. There are other suspects, including Ernest Farnum, a disgruntled employee who improbably confesses.
Detectives Leron McCoy and Hank Quinlan are considered “legends” in Los Angeles for their excellent work, and Assistant District Attorney Mitch Holt is suspicious. The rest of the story is a mish-mash of double-crossing police and families in danger, with several lives and careers ruined while exposing hypocrisy and crime in the L.A. police.
Orson Welles was given this project as a B Movie and decided to take apart the story and rebrand it as his vision moving the book action from San Diego to the U.S. & Mexico border. Our protagonist (played by Charlton Heston) was renamed Miguel Vargas and played in “brown face” to serve Welles’s theme of racism and American relations with Mexico.
34-year-old pre-Psycho Janet Leigh rounds out the cast as Vargas’s new bride, Susan Vargas, pre-Duel Dennis Weaver as the Night Manager, and an array of top-notch character actors played by a multi-racial cast.
Stars like Zsa Zsa Gabor, Keenan Wynn, and Marlene Dietrich agreed to work for union pay to help keep on budget.
The Margos debate between the novel and the classic film--which did we like more?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The 1956 novel Badge of Evil Vs. the 1958 Film Noir Classic
The Margos dive right back into one of our favorite genres--film noir! The 1958 Orson Welles’s directed film Touch of Evil is based on a 1956 novel by Whit Masteron titled Badge of Evil. The book sold reasonably well at the time, but at the time, the movie was given mixed reviews due to Welles not staying until the final edit process.
In 1998, a “re-cut” of the film was based on a 58-page memo Welles had sent to the studio 40 years previously is now considered a modern classic and one of the last true “film noirs” to be released.
Whit Masterson was the nom de plume of two writers--Wade Miller and Will Daemer who wrote more than 30 books together (including Kitten With a Whip in 1964!) Their original story is about a man, Rudy Linneker, killed by a dynamite blast at this home. His daughter Tara stands to make $2 million and is engaged to someone her father disapproved of before her death. There are other suspects, including Ernest Farnum, a disgruntled employee who improbably confesses.
Detectives Leron McCoy and Hank Quinlan are considered “legends” in Los Angeles for their excellent work, and Assistant District Attorney Mitch Holt is suspicious. The rest of the story is a mish-mash of double-crossing police and families in danger, with several lives and careers ruined while exposing hypocrisy and crime in the L.A. police.
Orson Welles was given this project as a B Movie and decided to take apart the story and rebrand it as his vision moving the book action from San Diego to the U.S. & Mexico border. Our protagonist (played by Charlton Heston) was renamed Miguel Vargas and played in “brown face” to serve Welles’s theme of racism and American relations with Mexico.
34-year-old pre-Psycho Janet Leigh rounds out the cast as Vargas’s new bride, Susan Vargas, pre-Duel Dennis Weaver as the Night Manager, and an array of top-notch character actors played by a multi-racial cast.
Stars like Zsa Zsa Gabor, Keenan Wynn, and Marlene Dietrich agreed to work for union pay to help keep on budget.
The Margos debate between the novel and the classic film--which did we like more?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
- The backstory of the movie
- The cast of the 1958 film: Charlton Heston (Ramon Miguel Vargas,) Janet Leigh (Susan Vargas,) Orson Welles (Police Captain Hank Quinlan,) Joseph Callaeia (Sgt. Pete Menzies,) Akin Tamiroff (Uncle Joe Grandi,) Joanna Cook Moore (Marcia Linnekar,) Ray Collins (District Attorney Addair,) Dennis Weaver (the Night Manager,) Zsa Zsa Gabor (Strip-club owner,) Marlene Dietrich (Tana,) Mercedes McCambridge (gang leader) and Joseph Cotton as a coroner.
- “You Have No Future”
- Touch of Evil 1958 trailer
- Acid attack scene
- Are you wearing a wire?
- Nightclub shakedown
- Welles and Dietrich
- Music: Touch of Evil opening title sequence with music by
1 Listener
Charlottes Web (1973) E.B. White, Hannah & Barbera, Debbie Reynolds, Paul Lynde, and The Sherman Brothers
Book Vs Movie Podcast
08/19/24 • 57 min
Book Vs. Movie: Charlotte’s Web
The 1952 Novel Vs the 1973 Movie
"Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White is a classic children's novel that tells the heartwarming story of Wilbur, a pig, and his unlikely friendship with Charlotte, a wise and caring spider. Through Charlotte's clever web-spinning, she helps save Wilbur from being slaughtered, highlighting themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life.
The 1973 animated movie adaptation stays faithful to the book's narrative and themes, capturing the gentle and reflective tone that made the story beloved by generations. The film, with its simple yet charming animation and memorable songs, preserves the emotional depth of the original story, making it a treasured adaptation for fans of the book. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out.
In this ep, the Margos discuss:
Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
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Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo
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Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
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[email protected]
You can buy your copy of
The 1952 Novel Vs the 1973 Movie
"Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White is a classic children's novel that tells the heartwarming story of Wilbur, a pig, and his unlikely friendship with Charlotte, a wise and caring spider. Through Charlotte's clever web-spinning, she helps save Wilbur from being slaughtered, highlighting themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life.
The 1973 animated movie adaptation stays faithful to the book's narrative and themes, capturing the gentle and reflective tone that made the story beloved by generations. The film, with its simple yet charming animation and memorable songs, preserves the emotional depth of the original story, making it a treasured adaptation for fans of the book. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out.
In this ep, the Margos discuss:
- The original story of the 1952 novel.
- The Sherman Brothers
- The 1973 Movie Cast: Henry Gibson (Wilbur,) Debbie Reynolds (Charlotte,) Paul Lynde (Templeton,) Agnes Moorehead (the Goose,) Don Messick (Jeffrey,) Pamela Ferdin (Fern,) Dave Madden (the Ram,) and Danny Bonaduce as Avery Arable.
- Wilbur can sing
- Author E.B. White reads Charlotte’s Web in 1970
- Charlotte’s Web (1973 trailer)
- “Chin Up!”
- “A Very Smorgasbord”
- “Mother Earth and Father Time”
- “Zuckerman’s Famous Pig”
- Music by The Sherman Brothers
Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
You can find us on Facebook at Book Vs. Movie Podcast Group
Follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie
Instagram: Book Versus Movie https://www.instagram.com/bookversusmovie/
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. Twitter @BrooklynMargo
Margo D’s Blog www.brooklynfitchick.com
Margo D’s Instagram “Brooklyn Fit Chick”
Margo D’s TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@margodonohue
[email protected]
You can buy your copy of
1 Listener
The Phantom Of the Opera (2004) Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, & Patrick Wilson
Book Vs Movie Podcast
03/24/22 • 51 min
Book Vs. Movie “Musicals in March”
The 1911 Novel The Phantom of the Opera Vs the 2004 Joel Schumacher Film
The Margos close out “Musicals in March” with one of the most popular musicals of all time--The Phantom of the Opera. Originally created in 1911 by French journalist and bon vivant Gaston Leroux, the story is based on stories about the Paris Opera in the 1800s which include hauntings aplenty. His creation is about Phantom Erik (!) who is an “Opera Ghost” madly in love with soprano Christine.
The complicated tale of Christine, the “Angel of Music,” her childhood friend Raoul, a performance of Faust, and flooding in the basement of the Palais Garnier involves love, intrigue, some objectification, and imprisonment. The 1925 movie starring Lon Chaney just barely scratched the surface so we turn to the unofficial King of Musicals--Andrew Lloyd Weber who along with lyricist Charles Hart created one of the most successful productions in Broadway and West End history.
The 2004 film was directed by the late Joel Schumacher. It’s lush, gorgeous, and filled with talented actors.
So, between the original story and the 2014 musical adaptation--which did we prefer?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The author Gaston Leroux
Paris in the early 20th Century
The differences between the novella and musical
The cast includes Gerard Butler (The Phantom,) Emmy Rossum (Christine,) Patrick Wilson (Raoul,) Minnie Driver (Carlotta,) Simon Callow (Gilles,) and Victor McGuire (Ubaldo.)
Clips used:
Opening scene of the movie
The Phantom of the Opera (the 2004 trailer)
“I Remember Stranger...”
“Why So Silent”
“All I Ask of You”
Carlotta sings
Music by Andrew Lloyd Weber
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
The 1911 Novel The Phantom of the Opera Vs the 2004 Joel Schumacher Film
The Margos close out “Musicals in March” with one of the most popular musicals of all time--The Phantom of the Opera. Originally created in 1911 by French journalist and bon vivant Gaston Leroux, the story is based on stories about the Paris Opera in the 1800s which include hauntings aplenty. His creation is about Phantom Erik (!) who is an “Opera Ghost” madly in love with soprano Christine.
The complicated tale of Christine, the “Angel of Music,” her childhood friend Raoul, a performance of Faust, and flooding in the basement of the Palais Garnier involves love, intrigue, some objectification, and imprisonment. The 1925 movie starring Lon Chaney just barely scratched the surface so we turn to the unofficial King of Musicals--Andrew Lloyd Weber who along with lyricist Charles Hart created one of the most successful productions in Broadway and West End history.
The 2004 film was directed by the late Joel Schumacher. It’s lush, gorgeous, and filled with talented actors.
So, between the original story and the 2014 musical adaptation--which did we prefer?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The author Gaston Leroux
Paris in the early 20th Century
The differences between the novella and musical
The cast includes Gerard Butler (The Phantom,) Emmy Rossum (Christine,) Patrick Wilson (Raoul,) Minnie Driver (Carlotta,) Simon Callow (Gilles,) and Victor McGuire (Ubaldo.)
Clips used:
Opening scene of the movie
The Phantom of the Opera (the 2004 trailer)
“I Remember Stranger...”
“Why So Silent”
“All I Ask of You”
Carlotta sings
Music by Andrew Lloyd Weber
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
1 Listener
Book Vs Movie "Logan's Run" (1976) Michael York, Jenny Agutter & Farrah Fawcett
Book Vs Movie Podcast
07/30/21 • 65 min
Book Vs Movie: “Logan’s Run” The Cult Classic Novel & Film That Inspired Generations of SciFi Fans Imagine living in a world where you can live as free as you please, but you have to allow yourself to be killed at 21 (or 30?) This dystopian tale comes from two science fiction authors, William F. Nolan and George Clayton Johson in 1976 with Logan’s Run. Logan is a “Sandman” who chases “runners” who wish to escape their creepy fate. The original story was inspired by the turbulent campus life in the 1960s and caught the imagination of SciFi fans everywhere. The setting is 2116, and from the “Little War,” it was decided that in order for earth to survive, the population needed to be kept artificially down. People live with a “palm flower” that changes color as they age. When they hit 21, it is called their ‘last day” and to report to “Sleepshop.” It is there they are killed using a pleasure-increasing toxic gas. Logan being a Deep Sleep Operative, he can tell when people are trying to escape their fate and run to a free land called “Sanctuary.” He uses a gun called a “homer” because it can “home” their body heat and evaporate them. Sandmen also use martial arts and generally have no sympathy for runners. Logan’s love interest in “Jessica 6” distrusts him at first but eventually along with Logan’s friend Francis they off to the Sanctuary. Francis, it turns out, is an oldster of 42 whose palm flower malfunctioned and he got by with plastic surgery to change his appearance Jessica and Logan are then sent off on a rocket outside of Mars to start their lives over. The 1976 movie stars Michael York as Logan 5 and Jenny Agutter as Jessica 6. The movie changes the maximum age to 30 and this time the “last dayers” end their lives in a game called the “Carrousel” which causes them to evaporate in front of an audience. In 2274, every person is implanted with a “life clock” that shows their age. Logan 5 and his friend Francis 7 are both Sandmen who one day kill a runner who had an “ankh” jewelry symbol. Turns out this symbol is for people who are looking for “Sanctuary” and that is how he identifies Jessica 6. They go on the run together and there is quite a bit of wackiness with a robot named Box who wants to freeze and eat them, Washington DC mossed over and an old man with cats who wants to help them. There are also sexy costumes and special effects which were considered a big deal at the time. (Wow!) So, between the original novel and the movie--which did we prefer? Have a listen and find out! In this ep the Margos discuss: The journey of the 1967 story to the 1976 movie Biggest changes between book & movie The 1977 TV series that surprisingly did not take off The special effects of the time The cast: Michael York (Logan 5,) Jenny Agutter (Jessica 6,) Richard Jordan (Francis 7,) Roscoe Lee Browne (Box voice), Farrah Fawcett-Majors (Holly 13), and Peter Ustinov as the Old Man. Clips used: Logan decides to run Logan’s Run trailer “The Carousel” Logan procures Jessica 6 Jessica and Logan meet “The Box” Music by Jerry Goldsmith Book Vs Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/ Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com Email us at [email protected] Brought to you by Audible.com You can sign up for a FREE 30-day trial here http://www.audible.com/?source_code=PDTGBPD060314004R Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected] Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/ Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
1 Listener
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) Roger Moore, Barbara Bach, Richard Kiel, & Ian Fleming
Book Vs Movie Podcast
06/19/22 • 54 min
Book Vs. Movie: The Spy Who Loved Me
The 1962 Novel Vs the 1977 James Bond Film
The Margos love a good spy novel and James Bond usually makes for a fun, exciting read. We found out that this novel, The Spy Who Loved Me, written very quickly by Ian Fleming at his estate “Goldeneye” in January & February of 1961 turned out to be in the words of his biographer Andrew Lycett, his “most sleazy and most violent story ever.” It was so bad that Fleming received the worst reviews of his career and he tried to eradicate it from his list of work.
The story is at first told in the first person by the character Vivian Michel, a woman who has it ROUGH in this story until James Bond comes to save her. We will get into the tawdry details in the show and then gladly move on to the 1977 film adaptation starring Roger Moore as our Bond. Much of the book was left out of the screenplay and the character of “Jaws” was an evil highlight. The theme song by Carly Simon was written by Marvin Hamlish and Carol Bayer Sager.
So between the two, which did we like more? The novel or the movie? (Big hint--not even close here!)
This episode is sponsored by Kensington Books and Unforgiven by Rebecca Zanetti
“Zanetti is a master of romantic suspense.” –Kirkus Reviews
Run: Gemma Falls never expected to use her game theory expertise to outrun a killer. But for years, that skill is all that kept her one step ahead of a deadly stalker. When Gemma gets the chance to teach at D.C. University, she hopes she and her young daughter have found a safe harbor. The only flaw is the arrogant philosophy professor who’s always underfoot giving unwanted advice—in his sexy British accent . . .
Hide: Jethro Hanson has blood on his hands. He’s working within ivy-covered university halls now, but he knows that his work with the Deep Ops team and the deadly acts he once committed for the sake of Queen and country place him beyond forgiveness—until he meets Gemma . . .
Seek: Soon, the passion between them stuns them both. But when Jethro discovers a threat is fast overtaking her, he must choose between the redemption he seeks—and releasing the ever-present killer inside . . .
Rebecca Zanetti has published over 50 books and has been featured in Entertainment Weekly, Woman’s World, and Woman’s Day magazines.
She has ridden in a locked Chevy truck, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to unlock her handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mines to hide a human body! You can find her at www.RebeccaZanetti.com & on social media @RebecaaZanetti.
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The extraordinary life of Ian Fleming
The history of James Bond films
The biggest differences between the book and the movie
Carly Simon’s amazing theme song
The cast: Roger Moore (James Bond/007,) Barbara Bach (Anya Amasova/XXX,) Curt Jurgens (Karl Stromberg,) Richard Kiel (Jaws,) Caroline Munro (Namoi,) Geoffrey Keen (Sir Frederick Gray,) Edward de Souza (Shiekh Hosein,) George Baker (Captain Benson,) Lois Maxwell (Miss Moneypenny,) Walter Gotell (General Gogol,) Vernon Dobtcheff as Max Kalba,) Desmond Llewelyn (Q,) and Bernard Lee as M.
Clips used:
Introduction of James Bond
The Spy Who Loved Me trailer
Bond fights with Jaws
007 and XXX in the submarine scene
Stromberg reveals his plans
Bond kills Stromberg
Music by Marvin Hamlisch
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
The 1962 Novel Vs the 1977 James Bond Film
The Margos love a good spy novel and James Bond usually makes for a fun, exciting read. We found out that this novel, The Spy Who Loved Me, written very quickly by Ian Fleming at his estate “Goldeneye” in January & February of 1961 turned out to be in the words of his biographer Andrew Lycett, his “most sleazy and most violent story ever.” It was so bad that Fleming received the worst reviews of his career and he tried to eradicate it from his list of work.
The story is at first told in the first person by the character Vivian Michel, a woman who has it ROUGH in this story until James Bond comes to save her. We will get into the tawdry details in the show and then gladly move on to the 1977 film adaptation starring Roger Moore as our Bond. Much of the book was left out of the screenplay and the character of “Jaws” was an evil highlight. The theme song by Carly Simon was written by Marvin Hamlish and Carol Bayer Sager.
So between the two, which did we like more? The novel or the movie? (Big hint--not even close here!)
This episode is sponsored by Kensington Books and Unforgiven by Rebecca Zanetti
“Zanetti is a master of romantic suspense.” –Kirkus Reviews
Run: Gemma Falls never expected to use her game theory expertise to outrun a killer. But for years, that skill is all that kept her one step ahead of a deadly stalker. When Gemma gets the chance to teach at D.C. University, she hopes she and her young daughter have found a safe harbor. The only flaw is the arrogant philosophy professor who’s always underfoot giving unwanted advice—in his sexy British accent . . .
Hide: Jethro Hanson has blood on his hands. He’s working within ivy-covered university halls now, but he knows that his work with the Deep Ops team and the deadly acts he once committed for the sake of Queen and country place him beyond forgiveness—until he meets Gemma . . .
Seek: Soon, the passion between them stuns them both. But when Jethro discovers a threat is fast overtaking her, he must choose between the redemption he seeks—and releasing the ever-present killer inside . . .
Rebecca Zanetti has published over 50 books and has been featured in Entertainment Weekly, Woman’s World, and Woman’s Day magazines.
She has ridden in a locked Chevy truck, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to unlock her handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mines to hide a human body! You can find her at www.RebeccaZanetti.com & on social media @RebecaaZanetti.
In this ep the Margos discuss:
The extraordinary life of Ian Fleming
The history of James Bond films
The biggest differences between the book and the movie
Carly Simon’s amazing theme song
The cast: Roger Moore (James Bond/007,) Barbara Bach (Anya Amasova/XXX,) Curt Jurgens (Karl Stromberg,) Richard Kiel (Jaws,) Caroline Munro (Namoi,) Geoffrey Keen (Sir Frederick Gray,) Edward de Souza (Shiekh Hosein,) George Baker (Captain Benson,) Lois Maxwell (Miss Moneypenny,) Walter Gotell (General Gogol,) Vernon Dobtcheff as Max Kalba,) Desmond Llewelyn (Q,) and Bernard Lee as M.
Clips used:
Introduction of James Bond
The Spy Who Loved Me trailer
Bond fights with Jaws
007 and XXX in the submarine scene
Stromberg reveals his plans
Bond kills Stromberg
Music by Marvin Hamlisch
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
1 Listener
"The Insider" (1999) Al Pacino, Russell Crowe, & Michael Mann
Book Vs Movie Podcast
04/07/22 • 64 min
Book Vs. Movie: The Insider
Marie Brenner’s Vanity Fair Article Vs the Michael Mann Film
The American news program 60 Minutes has long been considered one of the most trusted news outlets in the media. In the mid-1990s their reputation took a hit when they were accused of joining in the silencing of whistleblower Jeffrey Wigand who worked in the tobacco industry and accused his company, Brown & Williamson, of sneaking addictive chemicals into their cigarettes.
The Man Who Knew Too Much by Marie Brenner appeared in Vanity Fair in 1996 where she followed Wigand as he dealt with lawyers wanting him to give testimony against Brown & Williamson and his former employer invoking a nondisclosure agreement threatening his financial stability. Wigand felt pressure to do the right thing but did not feel supported until he met 60 Minutes producer Lowell Bergman. A supremely talented journalist with multiple Emmys to his credit, Bergman, and reporter Mike Wallace thought his testimony was an important story to cover.
Wigand claimed while waiting for trial, his former employers were harassing him and he went so far as to go to the FBI with allegations but he was labeled an unstable troublemaker and therefore, unreliable. His marriage fell apart and his paranoia increased when death threats were involved. He trusted 60 Minutes would clear his name but CBS President of News, Eric Ober (named Eric Kluster in the movie) decided not to broadcast Wigand’s interview as they could be sued by Brown & Willamson.
Michael Mann’s film deals with the blowback from Bergman and the media at large for what was seen as a cowardly move to protect CBS's upcoming sale to Westinghouse. In the movie, Russell Crowe plays Wigand (playing 20 years older than he was at the time) and Al Pacino as Bergman and The Insider would be a crucial favorite and earned several Academy Award nominations. Alas, it was the same year that American Beauty was nominated for multiple awards for some mind-boggling reason.
So, between the original story and the 1999 film-which did we prefer?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
Marie Brenner’s writing career
The tobacco industry in America and the lawsuits of the 1990s & 2000s
The differences between the real-life characters and the film
The cast: Al Pacino (Lowell Bergman,) Russell Crowe (Dr. Jeffrey Wigand,) Christopher Plummer (Mike Wallace,) Diane Venora (Liane Wigand,) Philp Baker Hall (Don Hewitt,) Lindsay Crouse (Sharon Tiller,) Debi Mazar (Debbie De Luca,) Stephen Tobolowsky (Eric Kluster,) Colm Feore (Richard Scruggs,) Bruce McGill (Ron Motley,) Gina Gershon as Helen Caparelli.
Clips used:
60 Minutes edited segment
The Insider trailer
CBS decides to edit the segment
Bruce McGill as the Mississippi lawyer
Jeffrey calls Lowell
Lowell resigns
Music by Lisa Gerrard and Pieter Bourke
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
Marie Brenner’s Vanity Fair Article Vs the Michael Mann Film
The American news program 60 Minutes has long been considered one of the most trusted news outlets in the media. In the mid-1990s their reputation took a hit when they were accused of joining in the silencing of whistleblower Jeffrey Wigand who worked in the tobacco industry and accused his company, Brown & Williamson, of sneaking addictive chemicals into their cigarettes.
The Man Who Knew Too Much by Marie Brenner appeared in Vanity Fair in 1996 where she followed Wigand as he dealt with lawyers wanting him to give testimony against Brown & Williamson and his former employer invoking a nondisclosure agreement threatening his financial stability. Wigand felt pressure to do the right thing but did not feel supported until he met 60 Minutes producer Lowell Bergman. A supremely talented journalist with multiple Emmys to his credit, Bergman, and reporter Mike Wallace thought his testimony was an important story to cover.
Wigand claimed while waiting for trial, his former employers were harassing him and he went so far as to go to the FBI with allegations but he was labeled an unstable troublemaker and therefore, unreliable. His marriage fell apart and his paranoia increased when death threats were involved. He trusted 60 Minutes would clear his name but CBS President of News, Eric Ober (named Eric Kluster in the movie) decided not to broadcast Wigand’s interview as they could be sued by Brown & Willamson.
Michael Mann’s film deals with the blowback from Bergman and the media at large for what was seen as a cowardly move to protect CBS's upcoming sale to Westinghouse. In the movie, Russell Crowe plays Wigand (playing 20 years older than he was at the time) and Al Pacino as Bergman and The Insider would be a crucial favorite and earned several Academy Award nominations. Alas, it was the same year that American Beauty was nominated for multiple awards for some mind-boggling reason.
So, between the original story and the 1999 film-which did we prefer?
In this ep the Margos discuss:
Marie Brenner’s writing career
The tobacco industry in America and the lawsuits of the 1990s & 2000s
The differences between the real-life characters and the film
The cast: Al Pacino (Lowell Bergman,) Russell Crowe (Dr. Jeffrey Wigand,) Christopher Plummer (Mike Wallace,) Diane Venora (Liane Wigand,) Philp Baker Hall (Don Hewitt,) Lindsay Crouse (Sharon Tiller,) Debi Mazar (Debbie De Luca,) Stephen Tobolowsky (Eric Kluster,) Colm Feore (Richard Scruggs,) Bruce McGill (Ron Motley,) Gina Gershon as Helen Caparelli.
Clips used:
60 Minutes edited segment
The Insider trailer
CBS decides to edit the segment
Bruce McGill as the Mississippi lawyer
Jeffrey calls Lowell
Lowell resigns
Music by Lisa Gerrard and Pieter Bourke
Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts
.
Join our Patreon page to help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/bookversusmovie
Book Vs. Movie podcast https://www.facebook.com/bookversusmovie/
Twitter @bookversusmovie www.bookversusmovie.com
Email us at [email protected]
Margo D. @BrooklynFitChik www.brooklynfitchick.com [email protected]
Margo P. @ShesNachoMama https://coloniabook.weebly.com/
Our logo was designed by Madeleine Gainey/Studio 39 Marketing Follow on Instagram @Studio39Marketing & @musicalmadeleine
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FAQ
How many episodes does Book Vs Movie Podcast have?
Book Vs Movie Podcast currently has 268 episodes available.
What topics does Book Vs Movie Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Podcasts, Books, Arts and Tv & Film.
What is the most popular episode on Book Vs Movie Podcast?
The episode title 'The Boys in the Band (1970) & (2020) Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Matt Bomer, Mart Crowley, & William Friedkin' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Book Vs Movie Podcast?
The average episode length on Book Vs Movie Podcast is 61 minutes.
How often are episodes of Book Vs Movie Podcast released?
Episodes of Book Vs Movie Podcast are typically released every 6 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of Book Vs Movie Podcast?
The first episode of Book Vs Movie Podcast was released on Nov 24, 2019.
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