Tales From Hollywoodland
TALES FROM HOLLYWOODLAND is a fast-paced weekly show business podcast, with an emphasis on all genres of movies; classic to current, as well as Broadway, TV, Cable, and Streaming. Hollywood vets Arthur Friedman, Steve Rubin, and Julian Schlossberg will be interviewing Hollywood luminaries, treating the listeners to decades worth of stories, anecdotes, insider viewpoints, candid opinions, as well as vivid and often hysterically funny celebrity encounters. From Sinatra to Cruise, Redford to DiCaprio, Hitchcock, and Coppola to Spielberg and Tarantino, Uncle Miltie to Eddie Murphy, Hackett and Rickles, and on and on. It’s all here with a capital E for Entertainment. Come join us for TALES FROM HOLLYWOODLAND.
Oppenheimer and the Bomb
The Tales from Hollywoodland team talks about the sensation of the Barbie phenomenon and its impact on the movie industry. Then the crew does a deep dive into director Christopher Nolan's latest epic, Oppenheimer, and the cataclysmic history behind it.
The Best of Alfred Hitchcock
The Tales from Hollywoodland team explores the classic film output of the Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, focusing on such films as Strangers on a Train, Rear Window, Vertigo, Psycho, and North by Northwest.
What Do Producers Really Do?
The Tales from Hollywoodland crew - producers all - take a deep dive into defining the world of motion picture producing - its responsibilities, pitfalls and joys.
Owning and Operating a Movie Theater
With considerable experience in the field, the Hollywoodland team explores how they came to the exhibition business and the range of skills they needed to own and operate a modern movie theater, also in this episode the guys start the show with a remembrance of Hollywood great Billy Friedkin.
Sex in the Cinema
This week the Tales From Hollywoodland team dives into the multi-faceted, and fascinating world of Sex and the Cinema, and how Hollywood has adjusted its approach over the years from extreme censorship to deregulation.
Broadway to Movies and Back Again
Start snapping your fingers, because this week the Tales from Hollywood team touts the classic Broadway musicals that became movies, and conversely, the classic movies that became Broadway musicals.
Greatest Comedy Movies
This week Arthur, Julian and I dive into a spirited and funny discussion about the greatest comedy films of all time. Prepare yourself for 60 minutes of fond comedy memories and some great guffaws as we discuss “Airplane,” “Tootsie,” “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein,” “The Producers,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Love and Death,” “Lost in America,” “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World,” “Some Like It Hot,” “Animal House” and much, much more.
Billy Wilder: Director Par Excellence
This week, Arthur, Julian and Steve discuss the amazing film career of writer/director Billy Wilder who specialized in comedy (The Apartment, One, Two, Three, Some Like it Hot, Stalag 17), but also dove into drama (Witness for the Prosecution, Sunset Blvd), war (Five Graves to Cairo) film noir (Double Indemnity), historical adventure (The Spirit of St. Louis), and thriller (The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes).
Renee Taylor: Comedy Force
This week the Tales from Hollywoodland guys land their first guest - and what a guest that is! The hysterically funny Renee Taylor talks about her long marriage and creative collaboration with her husband, Joseph Bologna, their breakout screenplay, "Lovers and Other Strangers" and her many Hollywood stories and experiences, with artists as varied as Marilyn Monroe and Jerry Lewis.
Pop Stars That Became Movie Stars
This week the Tales From Hollywoodland gang delves into the colorful group of pop singers who over the years became major attractions in the movies. Arthur, Julian and Steve cover everyone from Streisand to Elvis, Sinatra to Cher, the Beatles, and beyond.
Sports Themed Movies
This week, the Tales from Hollywoodland crew goes deep with the greatest sports movies ever made - from "Rocky", "Rudy" and "Hoosiers" to "Bull Durham," "North Dallas 40" and much much more. Put on your glove, lace up your sneakers and join us for a fun hour!
Ride'em, Rope'em, Shoot-em up - Hollywood's Love Affair with Westerns
This week, the Tales from Hollywoodland guys don their stetsons and chaps to discuss the greatest westerns ever produced by Hollywood. From "Red River" to "High Noon," to "The Professionals" and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," they cover the whole trail, even including such comedy classics as "Blazing Saddles" and "The Frisco Kid."
Movies to Scare the &%$# Out of You
This week, befitting the onset of Halloween, the Tales from Hollywoodland gang reviews the scariest movies of all time, from James Whale's original Frankenstein to Robert Wise's The Haunting to seminal works from Tobe Hooper (Poltergeist), William Friedkin (The Exorcist), Alfred Hitchcock (Psycho), and much more.
Steve Guttenberg Unscripted
This week, the Tales from Hollywoodland team spends a fun hour with film and television actor Steve Guttenberg - covering everything from "The Boys from Brazil" to "Cocoon" and beyond.
Interview With NY Post TV Editor & Author Michael Starr
This week, the Tales from Hollywoodland team interviews Michael Starr, television critic for the New York Post, but also the author of biographies on such celebrity notables as Peter Sellers, Ringo Starr, Art Carney, Don Rickles, William Shatner and more.
Hollywood Sex Scandals
This week the Tales from Hollywoodland gang interview author and film historian Lionel Friedberg, about his book Full Service co-written with the legendary Scotty Bowers, who, working out of a gas station on Hollywood Blvd, provided sexual services to some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn, Bette Davis, Walter Pidgeon, Rock Hudson, and so many more. Join us for the first of many episodes on Hollywood’s sex scandals.
Hollywood's Greatest Duos
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian and Steve showcase the great Hollywood acting duos. It's a great lineup that includes Abbott & Costello, Hepburn & Tracy, Newman & Redford, Hanks & Ryan, Pryor & Wilder, Thelma & Louise - even Donald O'Connor and Francis the Talking Mule...and much much more.
Movie Thrillers
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland. Arthur, Julian and Steve tackle the exciting thriller genre - including tense classics like "The Asphalt Jungle," "Charade." "3 Days of the Condor," "Ocean's 11," "All the President's Men" and much much more.
Hollywood Movie Bombs | Tales From Hollywoodland
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian and Steve review the movies that truly bombed at the boxoffice, including such disasters as Ishtar, Howard the Duck, Town & Country, Cleopatra (which nearly bankrupted 20th Century Fox), Tomorrowland, The Lone Ranger, and many more.
All About Marilyn Monroe
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian, and Steve examine the life and meteoric career of actress Marilyn Monroe, who redefined the definition of sex symbol for the ages.
Christmas Movies | Tales From Hollywoodland
Ho! Ho! Ho! Action!
This week, appropriately, Tales from Hollywoodland offers a fun overview of the best Christmas Movies of all time, and yes, we consider "Die Hard" a Christmas movie. Here they are: from George Bailey and the iconic "It's a Wonderful Life" family to the wild shenanigans of "Home Alone," enjoy a fun time covering Yule Time cinema.
Movie Directors Spotlight: Otto Preminger and John Sturges | Tales From Hollywoodland
In this podcast episode, hosts Julian Schlossberg, Arthur E. Friedman, and Steven J. Rubin discuss the careers and films of directors Otto Preminger and John Sturges. They delve into Preminger's reputation for being a tyrant on set, his bold directorial choices, and his notable films, including "River of No Return" and "Laura". They also discuss his treatment of actor Tom Tryon on the set of "In Harm's Way". The conversation then shifts to John Sturges, highlighting his talent for directing action and his successful films like "The Great Escape". The hosts also share personal anecdotes and trivia, and discuss their opinions on various films and actors.
Who Are the Most Influential Comedians of All Time? | Tales From Hollywoodland
In this podcast episode, Julian Schlossberg, Arthur Friedman, Steven J. Rubin, and producer Mike Faber engage in a rich discussion about the evolution of comedy and the influence of legendary comedians across different eras. They reminisce about the comedic genius of icons like Richard Pryor, Gene Wilder, Mel Brooks, Don Rickles, the cast of Saturday Night Live and Robin Williams to contemporary stars like Ben Stiller, Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, and many more.
Steven Spielberg: The Box-office King of Hollywood | Tales From Hollywoodland
This week, Steve, Julian and Arthur showcase the amazing career of director Steven Spielberg, from his first feature "Sugarland Express," through the enormous success of "Jaws," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "ET" to the present day.
Confessions of a Hollywood Starlet | Tales From Hollywoodland
What was it like to be a Hollywood starlet back in the 1960s? Find out this week, when Arthur, Julian and Steve interview Carol Holland (aka Hollenbeck) who became our first guest-host, and shares her harrowing story of trying to find traction in Hollywood while fighting back against casting couch low-lifes and rampant sexism.
Empowered Women In Hollywood
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," the hosts explore the evolution of empowered women in the film and television industry. They celebrate early pioneers like Mary Pickford and discuss the founding of United Artists. The episode highlights influential figures such as Mae West, Joan Crawford, Sherry Lansing, Lucille Ball, Marlo Thomas, and Mary Tyler Moore. The hosts also examine the portrayal of strong female characters, citing Sigourney Weaver's role in "Aliens" and Disney's Mulan. They acknowledge the impact of women in executive roles, like Donna Langley and Amy Pascal, and the legal battles for career control by actresses like Bette Davis and Olivia de Havilland.
The AFI Top 100 - What Were They Thinking?
This week, Arthur, Julian, and Steve analyze the most recent movie polling for the AFI Top 100, toasting the good choices, arguing over the questionable, and wondering how they could leave off classics like "Dr. Zhivago," "The Great Escape" and many others.
Great TV Shows
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian and Steve reveal their favorite television series of all time - from "Milton Berle" to "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," with visits along the way to "Seinfeld," The Sopranos," "The Twilight Zone," Combat" and many more.
Heartfelt Cinema
Since it's the season for Valentines, Arthur, Julian, and Steve examine the most romantic movies of all time, from "Casablanca" to "Titanic," "When Harry Met Sally," "Dirty Dancing," "Three Coins in the Fountain" and much more. Grab a partner and tune in for a fun time when romance was not only a popular movie genre, but a staple.
Movie Distribution & Exhibition
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," Julian, Arthur, and Steve discuss the intricacies of film distribution and exhibition, reflecting on personal experiences and the evolution of the industry. They pay homage to Don Murray's humanitarian efforts and explore the roles of marketing, concessions, and technological advancements in movie success. The impact of streaming services on traditional models and the future of film distribution are also debated.
The Deli Man Ziggy Gruber
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," Ziggy Gruber of Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen shares his deli expertise and experiences. The hosts, Julian Schlossberg, Arthur E. Friedman, and Stephen Jay Rubin, delve into the history of delis and Ziggy's personal journey in the business. They discuss Ziggy's time in Los Angeles, his move to Houston, and the celebrities who've visited his deli. The episode also touches on the 2014 documentary "The Deli Man," which spotlights Ziggy's dedication to deli culture.
Gossip Pounder - Journalist and Gossip Columnist Roger Friedman
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian, and Steve interview prolific East Coast gossip columnist and entertainment reporter Roger Friedman who regales us with some of the scandalous stories he has covered in his career, from OJ to Harvey Weinstein and beyond.
The Life and Legend of John Wayne with Author Scott Eyman
Catch an exclusive glimpse into the legendary world of Hollywood with our latest episode of The Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast! Join us as we sit down with acclaimed author Scott Eyman for an enlightening discussion on his book, delving deep into the life and legacy of the iconic John Wayne. From his early days to his rise as an American cinematic icon, Eyman provides fascinating insights and untold stories about the man behind the legend. Whether you're a die-hard fan of classic Hollywood or simply curious about the enigmatic figure of John Wayne, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to uncover the captivating tales behind one of Tinseltown's most enduring stars!
Las Vegas and The Rat Pack
Step into the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas' golden era with our latest episode of The Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast! Join us as we journey through the captivating history of the Rat Pack and their legendary reign over the iconic city. From Frank Sinatra's smooth crooning to the high-stakes antics of Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., we uncover the untold stories and behind-the-scenes secrets of this fabled era. Whether you're a fan of classic entertainment or simply intrigued by the allure of vintage Vegas, this episode offers a front-row seat to one of Hollywood's most celebrated chapters. Tune in now for an immersive dive into the dazzling world of the Rat Pack and the unforgettable legacy they left on the Las Vegas strip!
Unmasking Hollywood's Shadows: The Tragic Tale of J. Edward Bromberg and The Hollywood Blacklist
Dive deep into the shadows of Hollywood's past with our latest episode of The Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast! Join us as we uncover the riveting story of J. Edward Bromberg and his tragic entanglement with The Hollywood Blacklist. From his prolific career on stage and screen to his unjust persecution during the McCarthy era, we explore the tumultuous intersection of art and politics in 1950s Hollywood. With insightful analysis and compelling storytelling, this episode sheds light on Bromberg's legacy and the broader impact of the Blacklist on the entertainment industry. Tune in now to unravel the hidden truths behind one of Hollywood's darkest shadows.
Brando - The Man In The Leather Jacket
This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian and Steve explore the mannerisms, machismo and mythos of the truly iconic actor, Marlon Brando. From yelling "Stella!" so memorably in A Streetcar Named Desire, to his mumblings in the jungle in Apocalypse Now, with a visit along the way to The Wild One, Guys and Dolls, The Young Lions, The Godfather, and so much more, they explore the man who changed acting forever.
All About The Silent Film Era & Early Talkies Too
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," the hosts and their guest Lee Tsiantis discuss the silent film era's rich history and its profound impact on the film industry. They explore the origins of film, animation, the transition to sound films, and the challenges actors faced during this shift. The conversation covers the low survival rate of silent films into the modern era, the influence of directors like Erich von Stroheim, D.W. Griffith, and Auguste Lumiere, and their influences on modern audiences.
Songs Not Even Nominated
Classic songs go with Oscar telecasts, but it's simply amazing how many classics were never nominated in the Best Song category. This week on Tales from Hollywoodland, Arthur, Julian, and Steve examine the musical track record of the Academy Awards, wondering aloud how so many songs not only didn't receive Oscar gold, but weren't even nominated - "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, "Singin' in the Rain," "To Sir with Love," "Staying Alive" - they all came up empty.
Sci-Fi In Film: The Early Years
In the new episode of Tales From Hollywoodland, join Steve, Arthur, Julian, and Mike as they discuss classic sci-fi movies from the early years of Hollywood. They are delving into the production, cultural impact, and personal anecdotes related to these films. They highlight the historical context of the era, such as the fear of atomic bombs, and the rise of sci-fi cinema. The conversation covers iconic movies like "The Blob," "The Amazing Colossal Man," and "Forbidden Planet," noting their influence on later works like "Star Trek." They also mention the use of color in films, the profitability of low-budget sci-fi, and the significance of drive-ins as social hubs. The episode is a nostalgic trip through the golden age of science fiction, celebrating the genre's lasting appeal.
Tales From Hollywoodland Trailer
Tales from Hollywoodland is a fast-paced weekly show business podcast, with an emphasis on all genres of movies; classic to current, as well as Broadway, TV, Cable, and Streaming. Hollywood vets Arthur Friedman, Steve Rubin, and Julian Schlossberg will be interviewing Hollywood luminaries, and treating the listeners to decades worth of stories, anecdotes, insider viewpoints, candid opinions, as well as vivid and often hysterically funny celebrity encounters. From Sinatra to Cruise, Redford to DiCaprio, Hitchcock, and Coppola to Spielberg and Tarantino, Uncle Miltie to Eddie Murphy, Hackett and Rickles, and on and on. It’s all here with a capital E for Entertainment. Come join us for TALES FROM HOLLYWOODLAND.
Meet The Beatles
In this episode, Julian, Steve, and Arthur, are joined by Producer Mike to dive into the Beatles' profound influence on music and culture. They reminisce about the band's rise to fame, their groundbreaking music, and the cultural revolution of the 1960s. Personal experiences and historical insights paint a picture of the Beatles' enduring legacy, from live performances to their cinematic ventures. The conversation also acknowledges the Beatles' early influences and the societal shifts they inspired, touching on personal encounters and the band's lasting impact on the world.
TV Westerns
In this episode of Tales From Hollywoodland, the hosts engage in a nostalgic discussion about TV westerns, sharing personal anecdotes and analyzing the genre's influence on American culture. Join Steve, Arthur, and Julian as they reflect on iconic shows and the rise of actors like Clint Eastwood while examining the appeal of Westerns in terms of escapism and patriotism. The conversation also touches on the technical aspects of producing Westerns in the 1950s and ’60s and their cost-effectiveness. Through their insights, the hosts paint a picture of the enduring legacy of TV westerns and their impact on entertainment and popular culture to this day.
Broadway Musicals
Step into the spotlight with the Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast as we dive into the dazzling world of Broadway musicals! Join Steve, Julian & Arthur for an in-depth discussion on the history, magic, and cultural impact of some of the most iconic stage productions. From behind-the-scenes stories and legendary performances to the evolution of musical theatre, we cover it all. Whether you're a theatre aficionado or a curious newcomer, this episode offers fascinating insights and engaging commentary on the Broadway musicals that have shaped American entertainment. Tune in to the Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts, and experience the enchantment of Broadway
Producing Independent Film with Dan Coplan
In this exciting episode of the Tales from Hollywoodland Podcast, join Steve, Julian & Arthur as they sit down with independent film producer Dan Coplan to explore his dynamic career and the world of independent filmmaking. Dan shares his experiences, challenges, and successes in the film industry, providing invaluable insights for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Tune in to the Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Elvis is Everywhere
In this podcast episode, Julian, Steve, and Arthur are joined by producer Mike in a rich discussion about Elvis Presley's profound influence on the entertainment industry. They reminisce about Elvis's captivating performances, his controversial gyrations, and his groundbreaking role in popularizing rock and roll. The conversation covers the strategic management by Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis's transition from movies to live shows in Las Vegas, and the missed opportunities in his career. Personal anecdotes reveal Elvis's interactions with fans and the challenges he faced, including financial struggles and drug use. The episode paints a comprehensive picture of Elvis's legacy, his cultural impact, and the lasting significance of his work in music and film.
The Great American Songbook Chapter One: Male Pop Singers
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," hosts Steve, Arthur, and Julian are joined by guest Jimmy Scalia to explore the great American songbook and its influential male pop singers. The discussion highlights Bobby Darin's significant impact on the genre, with Jimmy Scalia sharing his personal connection to Darin and his efforts to preserve his music. The conversation also covers contributions from artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Ray Charles, and delves into the challenges and triumphs faced by these singers. The episode underscores the enduring legacy and diverse talents of these iconic artists. Tune in to the Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Hollywood Sex Goddesses
Dive into the glamorous and seductive world of Hollywood's most iconic sex goddesses in this captivating episode of the Tales from Hollywoodland Podcast. We explore the lives, careers, and lasting legacies of the silver screen sirens who defined an era with their beauty, charisma, and talent. From Marilyn Monroe to Rita Hayworth, discover how these enchanting women captivated audiences and became timeless symbols of allure. Whether you're a classic film enthusiast or curious about Hollywood's golden age, this episode offers a fascinating look at the stars who redefined glamour.
The Wonderful World of Disney
In this episode of "Tales from Hollywoodland," hosts Julian Schlossberg, Arthur E. Friedman, and Steven Jay Rubin delve into Disney's rich history and monumental impact on the entertainment industry. They discuss Walt Disney's life, the creation of Disneyland, and the success and challenges of Disney's animated films. Julian humorously imagines a future where Disney owns all entertainment, even joking about Mickey Mouse running for president. Steve fondly reminisces about his first visit to Disneyland in 1955, sharing a playful story about getting lost in the park's magic. Arthur highlights Walt Disney's genius and the Americana essence of his work, likening him to a modern-day wizard. The hosts also explore Disney's acquisitions, the renaissance of its animation division, and the company's evolving legacy, always remembering it’s a small world after all.
Hollywood Gangsters
In this Tales From Hollywoodland episode, join hosts Steve, Julian, and Arthur make you an offer that you can’t refuse as they delve into the history and evolution of American gangster movies. They discuss iconic films like "Little Caesar," "Public Enemy," and "Scarface," and the impact of the Hays Code on Hollywood's portrayal of violence. The conversation explores the distinction between gangster and heist movies, highlighting films such as "The Killing" and "Bullitt." They also share insights into the making of "The Godfather" and its industry impact. The hosts examine Martin Scorsese's contributions and discuss various gangster films, offering a comprehensive overview of the genre's cultural significance and enduring appeal. Give us a listen or we will have to have you fitted for some cement shoes.
Late Night TV Hosts
Dive into the captivating world of late-night television with "Tales from Hollywoodland"! In this episode, hosts Julian Schlossberg, Arthur Friedman, and Stephen Jay Rubin explore the rich history and evolution of late-night TV. From the Dumont Television Network's "Cavalcade of Stars" with Jack Kotter to NBC legends like Jerry Lester, Jackie Gleason, Steve Allen, Jack Paar, and Johnny Carson, they highlight Carson's charm and reign as the king of late night. The discussion heats up with iconic rivals Joan Rivers and Arsenio Hall, leading to the era of David Letterman and Jay Leno. They also spotlight modern favorites like Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert, offering a comprehensive look at late-night TV's dynamic landscape. Join us for an engaging and nostalgic journey through television history!
Deep Throat and Other X-Rated Movies
Get ready for a provocative episode of the Tales From Hollywoodland Podcast! This week, we're diving deep into the world of X-rated movies, with a special focus on the iconic film Deep Throat. Join hosts Julian Schlossberg, Arthur Friedman, and Stephen Jay Rubin as they explore the cultural impact and legacy of adult films in Hollywood. We're also thrilled to have author Jared Stearns join us to discuss his fascinating book, Pure - The Sexual Revolutions of Marilyn Chambers. Discover the untold stories, controversies, and groundbreaking moments that shaped the adult film industry.
Sci-Fi Movies Part II - The 1970's & 1980's
In this episode, hosts Stephen Jay Rubin, Julian Schlossberg, and Arthur Friedman, are joined by guest award-winning artist Mark Maddox, who delve into the landscape of science fiction films from the 1970s and 1980s. They discuss iconic movies like "Star Wars," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind, "Alien," and "The Thing," reflecting on their significance and impact on the genre. The speakers share personal anecdotes, insights into the film industry, and the evolution of special effects. The episode highlights the cultural influence of these films and their role in shaping contemporary science fiction cinema.
The Greatest Hollywood Hunks: From Gable to Clooney
In this special anniversary episode of "Tales from Hollywood Land," hosts Julian Schlossberg, Arthur Friedman, and Stephen Jay Rubin celebrate a year of captivating discussions about Hollywood. They delve into the evolution of "Hollywood hunks," comparing classic icons like Clark Gable and Rock Hudson to modern stars such as George Clooney and Tom Cruise. The hosts explore the physical attributes, acting abilities, and cultural impact of these actors, reflecting on how the portrayal of masculinity in Hollywood has changed over the decades. This episode serves as both a celebration of their podcast's first year and a tribute to the enduring appeal of Hollywood hunks.