Retro Guardians

Ben shares stories from his annual trip to TerrifiCon at Mohegan Sun: the creators and voice actors he met, the comics and prints he had signed, and the traditions that make the convention a highlight of his year. Along the way, Ben reflects on how the trip has become a source of purpose, community, and something to look forward to In this episode Why TerrifiCon's blend of comic creators, acto...

Dawn of the Dead (1978) Ben and Jay revisit George Romero’s 1978 classic and trace why it stayed elusive for them in the 1990s, why it mattered when they finally found it in 2000, and why it still holds up as a landmark in horror. They also connect the film to Romero’s Pittsburgh roots, the Monroeville Mall location, and Tom Savini’s practical effects legacy. In this episode: Ben and Jay explain t...

This episode explores the making of the Stephen King miniseries 'The Stand,' its production challenges, and its relevance today. Hosts Jay and Ben discuss the adaptation process, key characters, and the impact of the series on horror storytelling. keywords Stephen King, The Stand, miniseries, adaptation, horror, post-apocalyptic, Mick Garris, TV production, COVID-19 relevance key topics Th...

In this episode, we explore the making and cultural impact of Steven Spielberg's 1986 film, E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, discussing its production, influence, and legacy in film history. keywords ET, Spielberg, film history, 1982 movies, movie analysis, film making, cultural impact, special effects, movie nostalgia key topics The significance of 1982 in film history Steven Spielberg's creat...

Join Jay and Ben as they explore the making, impact, and legacy of the iconic film Independence Day. Discover behind-the-scenes insights, special effects breakthroughs, and cultural influence of this blockbuster hit. keywords: Independence Day, 1996, sci-fi, CGI, disaster movies, film history, special effects, Hollywood, movie analysis key topics: The impact of Independence Day on CGI and special...

Join us as we explore the nostalgic world of Masters of the Universe, the 1987 film, and its modern remake. We discuss the impact of the franchise, behind-the-scenes insights, and how expectations shape our viewing experience. keywords Masters of the Universe, 1987 film, Dolph Lundgren, Skeletor, nostalgia, movie review, toy line, 80s movies, film analysis, remake key topics The history and impact...

Join us as we explore Ernie Hudson's remarkable career, from Ghostbusters to his recent work, and his inspiring insights on health, longevity, and staying active at 80. keywords Ernie Hudson, Ghostbusters, acting career, health, longevity, filmography, Hollywood, interviews, nostalgia key topics Ernie Hudson's early career and breakthrough roles Behind-the-scenes of Ghostbusters and Ghostb...

Join us as we explore the cult classic 'Armed and Dangerous' (1986), featuring insights into its cast, production, and nostalgic 80s vibe. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, character highlights, and why this film remains a hidden gem worth revisiting. keywords Armed and Dangerous, 1986, John Candy, Eugene Levy, 80s comedy, cult classic, film analysis, behind the scenes, nostalgic movies,...

This episode explores the history and evolution of James Bond films, focusing on Roger Moore's era. It covers behind-the-scenes stories, iconic scenes, and the impact of the franchise on pop culture. keywords James Bond, Roger Moore, Bond films, movie history, film production, iconic scenes, film franchise, spy movies key topics Roger Moore's impact on Bond films Behind-the-scenes stories...

In this episode, Ben and Jay explore the 1996 comedy film 'Down Periscope,' discussing its cast, plot, and the context of 90s cinema. They analyze the film's reception, production background, and memorable moments, providing insights into its place in film history. keywords: Down Periscope, 1996 comedy, film analysis, Kelsey Grammer, Navy movies, 90s cinema, Rob Schneider, David S. War...

Keywords: Dennis the Menace, 1993 film, Walter Matthau, John Hughes, nostalgia, character analysis, comedy, family film, cultural impact, movie review Summary : In this episode, hosts Ben and Jay delve into the 1993 film 'Dennis the Menace,' exploring its nostalgic value, character dynamics, and the comedic elements that made it a classic. They discuss the film's legacy, the performanc...

Keywords RoboCop, Paul Verhoeven, 80s movies, film analysis, sci-fi, dystopian, casting, film production, cultural impact, sound design Summary In this episode, Ben and Jay delve into the iconic 1987 film RoboCop, exploring its production history, casting choices, and the challenges faced during filming. They discuss the film's themes of identity, corporate greed, and the militarization of pol...

Keywords Strange Days, RetroGuardians, movie review, technology, cyberpunk, 90s films, film analysis, character study, plot evaluation, cultural commentary Summary In this episode of Retro Guardians, hosts Jay and Ben delve into the 1995 film 'Strange Days,' exploring its themes, technological predictions, character performances, and the societal context of its release. They discuss the fi...

Keywords Batman, animated series, nostalgia, voice acting, character development, villains, serious themes, legacy, 90s cartoons, Retro Guardians Summary In this episode of Retro Guardians, hosts Ben and Jay dive into the nostalgia of 'Batman: The Animated Series,' exploring its impact on the animation landscape of the 90s. They discuss the creative process behind the show, the development...

Keywords Christmas Vacation, National Lampoon, classic cinema, holiday chaos, Chevy Chase, family dynamics, comedy, film legacy, political correctness, movie review Summary In this conversation, Ben and Jay reflect on the classic film 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation,' discussing its humor, relatable family dynamics, and the performances of the cast. They explore the film's m...

Keywords Eddie Murphy, Vampire in Brooklyn, horror comedy, Wes Craven, 90s films, film analysis, movie review, nostalgia, character actors, studio interference Summary In this episode, Ben and Jay delve into Eddie Murphy's unique foray into the horror genre with 'Vampire in Brooklyn.' They explore the film's production background, the cast, and the challenges it faced due to studio...

Keywords Commando, Arnold Schwarzenegger, 1985 film, action movie, film history, casting, character analysis, production challenges, film legacy, 80s cinema Summary In this episode, Ben and Jay discuss the 1985 action film 'Commando,' starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. They explore the film's production history, casting choices, and the impact it had on Schwarzenegger's career. The co...

In this episode the Guardians look at 90's comedy extraordinnare, Damon Wayans, who plays a hardened Marine dumped into a kids’ military academy, where his brutal discipline meets a pack of soft, smart-mouthed cadets. This episode unpacks the slapstick violence, the messed-up pep talks, the surprising heart under all the yelling, and why this oddball comedy still sticks in our heads. Think tou...

This week, we sink our fangs into one of the coolest vampire flicks of the 80s –  The Lost Boys . Set in the neon-soaked streets of Santa Carla, it’s part horror, part comedy, and pure 80s rebellion. The Guardians discuss the film’s perfect blend of style, soundtrack, and supernatural swagger and explore how  The Lost Boys  reshaped the vampire myth for a generation raised on MTV and leather jacke...

Grab your chainsaw and tape recorder, because this Halloween the  Retro Guardians  head deep into the woods to summon one of horror’s wildest cult classics –  The Evil Dead  (1981). We’re talking low-budget terror, gallons of fake blood, and the birth of Sam Raimi’s chaotic genius. From Bruce Campbell’s screaming endurance test to that unrelenting cabin setting, we dig into what made this film bot...

Murder, mystery, and more endings than you bargained for. In this Retro Guardians episode, we head to Hill House to revisit the cult classic  Clue  (1985). From secret passages to slapstick chaos, we pull apart how a simple board game became a whip-smart comedy with Tim Curry leading the charge. Expect debates on which ending reigns supreme, nods to the absurd brilliance of the cast, and plenty of...

Step right up, folks, the circus has come to town, only this time it’s armed with popcorn guns, cotton candy cocoons, and alien clowns with bad intentions. In this Retro Guardians episode, we’re diving deep into the 1988 cult classic  Killer Klowns from Outer Space . From its bizarre premise to its practical effects magic and twisted carnival soundtrack, this film turned a goofy idea into an unfor...

During the renovation of an old house, a hidden door is uncovered. Its frame lined with desperate scratch marks. Beyond it, a staircase descends far deeper than the foundations should allow. Step by step, the darkness closes in, until escape is no longer possible. In this episode, Lucian Graves brings you  Scratches on the Inside - a tale of endless descent, vanishing doors, and the marks left beh...

In this episode - guardian Ben travels to Connecticut to the annual Terrificon comic convention. Hear all about his antics on this whirlwind trip by 'Aussie Ben'.

Join horror-caster Lucian Graves, in our first episode of "Retro Guardians Presents: Spooky Tales", as he shares a short spooky tale, about a lone driver on dark, quiet country road. Or was he really alone?