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Do you remember the first time you watched "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial"? For us, it was a magical journey that left an indelible mark on our childhoods and continues to influence us today. Join us as we relive the heartwarming and emotional moments of this 1982 classic, celebrating Steven Spielberg's brilliance and exploring the powerful performances of Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Dee Wallace. Our conversation is rich with personal anecdotes, reflections on the film's box office triumph, and its enduring cultural impact, drawing comparisons to other Spielberg masterpieces like "Poltergeist."

What do "Stranger Things" and "E.T." have in common? Dive into our spirited discussion about the film's authentic portrayal of kids' interactions, reminiscent of the era's charm with board games and pizza delivery. We dissect the film's thrilling opening scenes and the deeper connections between Elliott and E.T., touching on Neil Diamond's song "Heartlight" and its mysterious ties to the movie. You'll also hear us laugh about childhood antics inspired by E.T. and share our evolving perceptions of the film from our youth to adulthood, including the emotional resonance of their bond and the heartache of their separation.

Ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes secrets of "E.T."? We uncover fascinating details about Spielberg's creative choices, including his resistance to sequels and the iconic Reese's Pieces product placement. Reflecting on nostalgic memories, we reminisce about the various formats we watched the film on, from worn-out VHS tapes to pristine 20th anniversary DVDs. The episode wouldn't be complete without a nostalgic ride through the ET Adventure at Universal Studios and a preview of our next review: the 1980s football-themed film "Johnny B. Good." Join us for this heartfelt and nostalgic exploration of one of the most beloved movies of the 80s.

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"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"

What drives a man to turn a bulldozer into a weapon of mass destruction? In this gripping episode of the Ol' Dirty Basement, we explore the complex and tragic tale of Marvin Heemeyer, whose infamous "Killdozer" left a swath of destruction in Granby, Colorado. We navigate the monetary conflicts and personal vendettas that fueled Heemeyer's rampage, contemplating whether it was divine inspiration or sheer greed that led him to such lengths. As we recount Heemeyer's tumultuous journey, we also touch on how his actions were overshadowed by the death of Ronald Reagan the following day, providing a broader context to this extraordinary true crime tale.

Get to know Marvin Heemeyer, a former Air Force serviceman turned local craftsman, whose life took a dark turn following a series of bitter land disputes in Granby. We delve into the escalating conflict between Heemeyer and the Docheff family, exploring how small-town dynamics and uncompromising personalities led to a tragic conclusion. From Heemeyer's refusal to connect his property to the town's sewage system to his firm stance against the Docheffs' concrete plant, we paint a picture of a man pushed to his limits by a combination of bureaucracy and personal vendettas.

Experience the meticulous planning and sheer chaos of the "Killdozer" rampage, as we detail how Heemeyer liquidated his assets to build and fortify his Komatsu D355A bulldozer. Hear about the calculated steps he took to prevent posthumous asset claims, and the nearly unstoppable machine that baffled law enforcement and the National Guard. Despite causing millions in damages, Heemeyer's actions resulted in no loss of life other than his own. Join us as we unpack every twist and turn of this harrowing story, while also sharing a humorous myth about outsmarting the police that adds a touch of levity to this intense narrative.

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https://freesound.org/people/Exchanger/sounds/415504/ Fun Facts Jingle

Thanks to The Tsunami Experiment for the theme music!!
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SUPPORT US AT https://www.buzzsprout.com/1984311/supporters/new
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"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"

Ever wondered what it would be like if a mannequin came to life in the heart of an 80s department store? Join us on a whimsical journey back to 1987 as we reminisce about the charmingly oddball film "Mannequin." We’ll take you through the quirky adventures of Jonathan Switcher, played by Andrew McCarthy, and his enchanting muse Emmy, brought to life by Kim Cattrall. Listen in for personal anecdotes like that magical first viewing in a theater, and our humorous take on Jonathan's string of odd jobs and how they weave into the film’s narrative.

In this episode, we celebrate the cultural impact of "Mannequin," from its delightful soundtrack featuring Starship’s iconic hit "Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now," to its nostalgic depiction of 80s fashion and retail therapy at stores like John Wanamaker's and Boscov's. We dive into the fantastical romance at the heart of the story and compare it to other beloved fantasy comedies of the era, such as "Splash." Our conversation also brings back memories of shopping malls and the vibrant 80s brands that defined an era of bold style choices and unforgettable music.

Finally, we explore some fascinating behind-the-scenes trivia, imagining how the film might have looked with different casting choices like Michael J. Fox or Madonna. We pay tribute to Kim Cattrall’s dedication and discuss the clever use of stop-motion animation. Get ready for a heartfelt discussion on the Pygmalion myth inspiration behind the story, and revel with us in the nostalgia of 1987—a truly remarkable year for movies. This episode is packed with humor, personal stories, and a deep appreciation for one of the most unconventional gems of the late '80s.

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Sounds:https://freesound.org/people/frodeims/sounds/666222/ Door opening
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https://freesound.org/people/jack126guy/sounds/361346/ Slot machine
https://freesound.org/people/Zott820/sounds/209578/ Cash register
https://freesound.org/people/Exchanger/sounds/415504/ Fun Facts Jingle

Thanks to The Tsunami Experiment for the theme music!!
Check them out here
SUPPORT US AT https://www.buzzsprout.com/1984311/supporters/new
MERCH STORE https://ol-dirty-basement.creator-spring.com
Find us at the following

• https://oldirtybasement.buzzsprout.com WEBSITE
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