The Movie Musical Shakedown

"Cyrano"

Wed, 31 May 2023 14:31:45 +0000

For our season premiere, we deep dive into one of the best movie musicals in recent years, 2021's 'Cyrano', starring Peter Dinklage, Haley Bennett and Kelvin Harrison Jr.

"Babes in Arms"

Tue, 04 May 2021 11:44:23 +0000

This week, Chris and guest host Ashley Griffin ("Stage Directions") take a look at a classic Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland musical. We discuss everything from Judy's star-making performance to the incredibly shocking end that's hard to watch in 2021.

"Flower Drum Song"

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 19:38:23 +0000

This week, Chris and Nicole take a look at 1961's "Flower Drum Song". While not considered one of Rodgers & Hammerstein's classics, this movie is one of the few Hollywood studio films to feature an all-Asian cast.

And while it might be a point of pride for many Asian theatre fans, that's not to say this film doesn't contain some issues as well.

"Seven Brides for Seven Brothers"

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 14:20:01 +0000

This week Chris and Nicole take a look at a movie that features some incredible choreography sandwiched between infamously bad storytelling, 1954's "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers".

"Jesus Christ Superstar"

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 11:12:52 +0000

And we're back! After a hiatus, we're opening season 3 of this podcast with one of the most iconic and polarizing movie musicals of all-time, 1973's "Jesus Christ Superstar"!

Given that Easter is right around the corner, and that we've already done "Godspell", we figured what better time to dip into this Andrew Lloyd Webber and Time Rice classic. Not to mention directed by Norman Jewison who also helmed "Fiddler on the Roof".

"Cabaret"

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 15:04:14 +0000

This week Chris and Nicole dig into one of the greatest movie musicals of all-time, 1972's "Cabaret". While Nicole doesn't like Chris's rating for Bob Fosse's choreography, there is no doubt that this is an equally entertaining and disturbing film.

"A Goofy Movie"

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 11:32:34 +0000

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of this vastly underrated classic, Chris and special guest, Ned Donovan, are deep-diving into one of their personal faves, "A Goofy Movie". They get into the incredible music, voice-acting and how watching this movie as a father was different than watching it as a teenager.

"Godspell"

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 00:41:00 +0000

We've been putting this one off for a while, but it's about time we deep dove into 1973's "Godspell". An iconic piece of musical theatre, it's one of the few to be adapted before it had premiered on Broadway. Chris has a personal connection to the piece which he gets into as well.

"Mulan" (1998)

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 11:12:58 +0000

This week Grace and Chris deep dive into one of their Disney faves, "Mulan". Both being Asian-American, this is a special one for both of them. They discuss the incredible voice talents, art direction and underrated music.

"The Sound of Music"

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 15:04:04 +0000

We're kicking off Season 3 of the Movie Musical Shakedown with one of the most iconic movie musicals of all-time, "The Sound of Music". Winner of 5 Oscars including Best Picture, this has easily become a family viewing tradition in many a households.

"Sing Street"

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 14:07:13 +0000

This week's episode was recorded live at BroadwayCon in NYC. Grace and I had a great time talking about one of our personal faves which is making its way to Broadway this spring!

"Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory"

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 19:58:55 +0000

This week, Chris and Nicole take a look a the 1971 classic, "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory". By far one our favorite movie musicals growing up.

"FernGully: The Last Rainforest"

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 02:16:02 +0000

This week, Chris and Grace kick off the holiday season by looking at 1992's "FernGully: The Last Rainforest". The film was one of the first major films to address environmental issues and almost 30 years later, Grace and Chris wonder if its message landed.

"Enchanted"

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 11:24:05 +0000

This week Grace and Chris dig into 2007's "Enchanted". This movie marked a return of strong Disney movie musicals and blended animation with live-action for a truly original story. We talk about everything from the outstanding Amy Adams, the music and all the "hidden Mickeys" throughout the film.

"Les Misérables"

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 08:00:00 +0000

This week Grace and Chris dig into 2012's visually stunning epic "Les Misérables". Will Russell Crowe win the Russell Crowe Award? Who else was considered for some of these roles? Did the live singing help or hurt the film? We tackle all of it this week.

"Little Shop of Horrors"

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 02:40:10 +0000

This week, Grace and Chris dive into 1986's "Little Shop of Horrors". Featuring one of the greatest comedic casts ever assembled, this movie went on to be nominated for two Oscars. We dig into everything from the songs to the special effects to the alternate ending.

"The Greatest Showman"

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 02:07:26 +0000

This week Grace and Chris discuss Hugh Jackman's dream project, "The Greatest Showman". A movie that really should have worked better than the finished product. But we dig into everything from the film's casting, interesting music choices and generous historical take on P.T. Barnum.

"Into the Woods"

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 21:57:24 +0000

This week, Chris and Ashley Griffin dive into 2014's "Into the Woods". This film which beautifully shot, is not without its flaws. We discuss everything from its questionable castings and disappointing changes from the original show.

"A Star is Born" (2018)

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 20:20:51 +0000

We're kicking off season two of the Movie Musical Shakedown with the gigantic 2018 hit, "A Star is Born". The 4th and arguable best incarnation of this story, Chris and new permanent co-host Grace Aki deep dive into everything from Cooper & Gaga's chemistry, the music and answer some tough questions about the film.

"Anastasia"

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 04:09:49 +0000

This week we're deep diving into 1997's hit, "Anastasia." One of the great non-Disney animate move musical, this has become quite popular sparked the Broadway adaptation which turned out much different than the movie...

"Cats Don't Dance"

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 12:21:45 +0000

This week, Chris and guest co-host, Ned Donovan, deep dive into 1997's "Cats Don't Dance". Initially a box office flop, this movie has found a second life with fans nearly 25 years later. Join Chris and Ned as they break down Randy Newman's score, strong voice acting and the movie's references to the golden age of Hollywood.

"The Little Mermaid" (1989)

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 14:27:28 +0000

This week, Chris and guest Ashley Griffin dig into Disney's 1989 classic, "The Little Mermaid". We talk about everything from its glorious score, incredible voice-acting and discuss the Broadway musical and live action adaptation.

"Moulin Rouge"

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 14:36:12 +0000

This week we deep dive into 2001’s “Moulin Rouge”. Arguably Baz Luhrmann’s best film, it went to nab 8 Oscar nominations including Best Picture. My guest co-host, Grace Aki, and I take a look at everything from its music, gorgeous design and smart casting choices. It should be a spectacular spectacular podcast!

"Coco"

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 15:08:53 +0000

This week, given Pixar’s release of Toy Story 4, we dig into the company’s one and only movie musical, Coco. With guest co-host, Melody Nicolette, we take a look at everything from the movie’s celebration of Mexican culture to its music and language.

"A Chorus Line"

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 13:59:39 +0000

This week, Nicole and I take a look at a movie musical that has become quite polarizing with fans, 1985’s “A Chorus Line.” Based on the gigantic Broadway hit, it seems this movie is one that either people love or hate with little in between.

“Aladdin” (1992)

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 12:15:57 +0000

This week Chris and Nicole shakedown Disney's 1992 animated classic, "Aladdin". We chat about the design, music and the incomparable Robin Williams. We also answer the question, "Should this get a remake"...do we ever.

“Singin’ in the Rain”

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 12:11:49 +0000

This week, Nicole and Chris tackle what many consider is the greatest movie musical of all time. We've been putting it off long enough. It's time to do "Singin' in the Rain."

"Fiddler on the Roof"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 12:07:44 +0000

This week, guest co-host Tracy Danoff and I break down 1971's "Fiddler on the Roof". The film was a commercial and critical hit, going on to win 3 Oscars.

"Center Stage"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 12:04:01 +0000

Yes, you read that correctly. This week we're deep diving into the film that ignited the Dance Movie Trend of the early 2000's, Center Stage. So fire up some "Higher Ground" and dance the sh*t out of it!

"Hedwig and the Angry Inch"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:59:36 +0000

This week we take a look at the 2001 cult hit, "Hedwig and the Angry Inch". A film that broke barriers, opened minds and created a legion of fans resulting in a Broadway revival of the show.

"Reefer Madness"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:55:35 +0000

This week we deep dive into the 2005 cult hit, "Reefer Madness", which feels more relevant today than ever.

“Pocohontas”

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:51:31 +0000

This week, we're shaking down Disney's 1995 animated film, "Pocahontas". While I wouldn't call this one of their classics, the film does have a few praiseworthy aspects. My guest co-host Melody Nicolette and I will be discussing the film's incredible cast, music, and making sure that some of the historical inaccuracies are rightfully pointed out.

"Damn Yankees"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:44:32 +0000

Just in time for the start of the baseball season, we're doing 1958's "Damn Yankees". As a Red Sox fan myself, I love this title. Nicole and I talk about everything from Gwen Verdon's brilliance, seeing Bob Fosse dance to the incomparable, Ray Walston.

"How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 02:34:46 +0000

This week we're shaking down a movie that's hard to watch in any lens, let alone 2019, 1967's "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying". We're going to discuss everything from whether or not this movie satirizes or makes light of sexual harassment, Bob Fosse coming to save the movie's choreography and Robert Morse's weird need to nuzzle his co-stars.

"Sweeney Todd"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 02:25:31 +0000

This week we're tackling 2007's "Sweeney Todd". While Tim Burton perfectly nailed the tone and look for the piece, did the cast live up to Sondheim's amazing score? My guest co-host Dr. Alisa Hurwitz, aka Dr. Drama, and I break it all down.

"Hairspray"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 02:19:35 +0000

This week we're looking at the 2007 hit, "Hairspray", which is widely considered as one of the best movie musicals in recent memory. I don't know if I'd go that far. But Erin and I break it all down from John Travolta to asking is Velma actually a good mother?

"Mamma Mia!"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 02:12:33 +0000

Because we all love a good guilty pleasure now and then, this week's shakedown is a perfect movie to use as an escape for a couple of hours. That's right, we're doing Mamma Mia this week! My guest, Denise Smoker, and I talk about everything from the music, to the look of the film and Pierce Brosnon...

"Hercules"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 02:05:33 +0000

Today we're breaking the seal on the Disney animated musical treasure trove and doing one of my favorites, "Hercules". My guest co-host, Drew Boudreau, and I discuss all this glorious about this movie. Enjoy!

"Carousel"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:59:43 +0000

This week we're deep diving into a movie that was likely as problematic in 1956 as it is in 2019. While it contains a gorgeous score, much of the story is hard to watch with a present day lens. But guest co-host Tracy Danoff and I discuss all of that and more. It's "Carousel"! Right here on the Movie Musical Shakedown.

"Newsies"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:47:17 +0000

My wife has two rules in our house: 1. Put the cap back on the toothpaste. 2. Don’t talk bad about Newsies. With this episode, I’ve broken both rules. This week we're discussing one of the most influential movie musicals of the past 25 years and arguably, Disney's 2nd most popular live-action musicals of all time. That's right, it's time to Seize the Day, it's Newsies!

"RENT"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:42:28 +0000

This week, just in time for Fox's "RENT Live!", we're looking back at the 2005 adaptation of the Jonathan Larson classic. This film famously divided the RENT fan-base and needless to say, we have some strong opinions on this episode.

"All That Jazz"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:37:17 +0000

On this episode, we’re going to be looking at a movie musical that the great Stanley Kubrick called one the best films he’s ever seen, "All That Jazz". I’m going to be joined by my co-host and wife, Nicole, who is a big fan of this movie and as a dancer, incredibly qualified to break down this film. It’s Showtime folks!

"South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:32:29 +0000

Bombs are flying, people are dying, children are crying, politicians are lying too. Cancer is killing, Texaco's spilling, the whole world's gone to hell, but how are you? This week we dive into our first animated movie musical, "South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut". Surprisingly, one of the best movie musicals of the last 25 years.

Bonus Episode - "The Muppets Christmas Carol"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 01:07:24 +0000

On this episode, we’ll be shaking down 1992’s, The Muppets Christmas Carol. We’ll be discussing everything from the movie’s songs, incredible performance and its copious amounts of “chaîné turns.

"White Christmas"

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 00:08:37 +0000

Given that we’re in peak holiday season mode, what better time to take a look at the wintertime classic, “White Christmas” We’re breaking down everything from Bing Crosby’s iconic tune to Rosemary Clooney’s lack of dancing and Vera-Ellen’s lack of singing. Also is calling someone a “weird-mobile” an insult? My special guest and wife, Nicole Peterson, talk about it all on this week’s episode of the Movie Musical Shakedown.

"Mary Poppins"

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:57:06 +0000

Winds in the east, there's a mist comin' in Like somethin' is brewin' and 'bout to begin...This week I'm breaking down the iconic Disney classic "Mary Poppins", just in time for the release of its sequel "Mary Poppins Returns". On this episode, I talk about the films legendary struggle to production, its amazing cast, and some lingering questions.

"The Last Five Years"

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:50:58 +0000

This week, we talk about a movie-musical that my wife used lyrics from for our wedding vows….and we’re still together after 9 years! 4 more than Jamie and Cathy. Guest Co-host Erin Shaughnessy and I break down, in our opinion, one of the best movie-musicals of this century, The Last Five Years.

"The Phantom of the Opera"

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:47:03 +0000

This week we're taking on the movie adaptation of one of the most iconic musicals of all-time, "The Phantom of the Opera". Guest co-host Karli Marie Gundersen and I chat about the things we love, things we didn't love and...Gerard Butler.

"Camp"

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 21:20:55 +0000

Hey! Do you wanna come out and play the game? Guest co-host Noah Golden and I are breaking down all things “Camp” on this episode of the Musical Movie Shakedown!

"Grease"

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 21:14:36 +0000

On the very first episode of this podcast, we shakedown one of the most popular movie musicals of all-time. No seriously, there are statistics to back that claim up. It’s Grease! Right here on the first episode of the Movie Musical Shakedown.