1980

Shogun (1980) – Part 3

Shogun 1980 pulls an interesting detail from the book, both Mariko and Blackthorne communicate in Latin. Though the 2024 adaptation was superior, one thing it will NEVER have is John Rhys-Davies pitching a fit! The differences in Mariko’s portrayal in 1980 by Yoko Shimada and the 2024 version by Anna Sawai are evident. Get the dish on the good and the goofy in Shogun 1980. 

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Shogun (1980) – Part 2

Shogun is over, but the excitement continues. Tune in to hear Jim and A.Ron’s plans for further coverage on the world of Shogun. Did you write in feedback? Listen in as Jim and A.Ron discuss your questions and comments on this season of excellent television.

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Shogun (1980) – Part 1

Fans of the 2024 series Shogun on Hulu/FX would be remiss to skip the original series from 1980. Fear not! Jim and A.Ron are here to cover it for your edification. This version of Shogun has all the charm of 1980s television, some differences in production quality, and an appearance from John Rhys-Davies. Does this show hold the same excitement? Let’s find out!

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The Elephant Man (1980)

Maybe it’s young Anthony Hopkins? Maybe it’s the exceptional sound design? Maybe it’s just that his style hadn’t fully blossomed? Whatever the case, it’s possible that we’ve found a David Lynch movie that’s un-Lynchian enough for even Jim to love!

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Raging Bull (1980)

This week we’re talking about an absolute classic. It’s #4 of AFI’s top 100 movies of all time. That’s right, it’s Raging Bull. Join us for the podcast to find out how a guy who never met a relationship he couldn’t punch his way out of is a lot like my dad. I promise it’s not as dark as that sounds.

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Magnum, P.I. (1980)

Special thanks to Dave Dillon for commissioning the 1980s hit television series, Magnum P.I. We weren’t sure what to expect, but after seeing the two part series premiere, “Don’t Eat the Snow in Hawaii”, we’re ready to recognize the greatness of the Mustachioed One. From war scenes that Punch waaayyyy above their weight, to Magnum perving on French Stews, we found the series consistently entertaining.

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The Shining (1980)

Jim and A.Ron check into the Overlook Hotel as we are compelled to podcast on the 1980 Stanley Kubrick psychological-horror masterpiece, “The Shining”. Starring Jack Nicholson and Shelly Duvall, it’s an incredible combination of beautifully crafted shots, stunning and terrifying visuals and imagery, and Jack Nicholson’s fully insane acting. There is so much to discuss; the film itself, our reactions, Stephen King’s antagonism towards the film, the various theories and documentaries the film has spawned, subliminal messages and hidden meanings, and fine naked ladies with implausible afros. All this and more is discussed, and we felt like we hardly scratched the surface.

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Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Andrew “The Commissioner” Mount “strikes” again from his hidden rebel base, this time forcing us to watch Episode V of the Star Wars saga, “The Empire Strikes Back.”  Which, incidentally, depending on the age of the A.Ron you ask, is either his favoritist movie of all time, or top three.  Either way, it’s a treat.  Once again, Jim and I try to sort through our childhood and adult memories of this holiest of trilogies to give it the treatment it deserves. If you missed in the first time, or would like to listen again, you can check out our coverage of A New Hope, also brought to you by The Commish.  

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