Ol' Dirty Basement

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What happens when a Vietnam veteran sits down with his son and friends to discuss one of the most iconic war films of all time? Steelton George, a Vietnam veteran and father of our co-host Matt, joins us on the Vintage Cinema Review podcast to provide an authentic perspective on Oliver Stone's "Platoon." As we commemorate Veterans Day, George generously shares his firsthand experiences, including the cultural shock of arriving in Vietnam and the solidarity for...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What if the charm of a game show contestant masked the sinister soul of a serial killer? Join us in the Ol' Dirty Basement as we unravel the chilling tale of Rodney Alcala, the "Dating Game Killer," who once graced the stage of a popular TV show while hiding his heinous crimes. As we dissect Alcala's life, you’ll discover how his high intellect and tumultuous upbringing paved the way for a life of manipulation and murder. From his academic adventures to h...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What if the technology from your favorite 90s heist film was more real than you thought? Unlock the secrets behind the 1992 classic "Sneakers" as we, your hosts Dave, Matt, and Zap, embark on a nostalgic exploration of its intricate plot and stellar cast. With Robert Redford and Sir Ben Kingsley leading the charge, we discuss everything from the film's clever caper storyline to its impressive box office success. Discover the challenges of streaming this hidden...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"Did you ever wonder how a seemingly typical family life could hide such sinister secrets? Explore the gripping tale of Aundria Bowman's mysterious disappearance from her adoptive home, a story shrouded in deception and startling revelations. We journey through Aundria's life, adopted by Dennis and Brenda Bowman, and the trail of her supposed sightings. Encounter the curious involvement of amateur sleuths, including a false lead from a DNA test, sparking more q...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What happens when the past refuses to stay buried? Join us as we unravel the complex and haunting case of Aundria Bowman, a teenager whose mysterious disappearance in 1989 has left a trail of questions and intrigue. We dig into the layers of Aundria's life, from her troubled adoption to the chilling events surrounding her vanishing, all while considering the emotional turmoil faced by adopted children. Inspired by the Netflix documentary "Into the Fire," our e...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What if a washed-up bowler could find redemption and hilarity amidst gutter balls and sugar in gas tanks? Join us as we tumble down the lanes of "Kingpin," the 1996 comedy classic by the Farrelly brothers. Zap, who shockingly had never seen the film until now, shares his newfound admiration for its unique humor that has garnered a cult following over the years. We chat about the unforgettable performances of Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid, and Vanessa Angel, not...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What if a single event could revolutionize the way law enforcement approaches crime? The infamous North Hollywood shootout did just that, setting off a wave of changes in police tactics and equipment. Join us as we trace the fiery path blazed by Larry Phillips Jr. and Emil Matasaranu, whose violent spree and military-level preparation culminated in a showdown that shocked the nation. Reflect on the chaos that unfolded on February 28, 1997, and how an unexpecte...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"Ever wondered how a power-tool-wielding dad navigates the chaos of domestic life while hilariously juggling household chores? Travel back to 1983 with us as we explore the iconic film "Mr. Mom," where Michael Keaton masterfully embodies the role of Jack Butler, an engineer turned stay-at-home dad. With Terry Garr as Caroline Butler, the movie flips traditional gender roles on their heads during the economic uncertainty of the early 80s. We reminisce about Jack...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"What drives a man to lead a group to their ultimate demise in pursuit of celestial ascension? Join us as we unravel the life of Marshall Herff Applewhite Jr., the charismatic but troubled leader of the Heaven's Gate cult. We start our journey in Spur, Texas, exploring his deeply religious roots, his vibrant high school days in Corpus Christi. Discover how Applewhite’s early years and personal struggles, including his conflict with his faith and burgeoning homo...

"Send us a Fan Mail Text Message"Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes in high school football? Join us as we break down the 1988 classic, "Johnny Be Good," and explore the chaotic world of football stars and their coaches. This week, Dave, Matt, and Zap bring you an entertaining and nostalgic look at the film that catapulted Anthony Michael Hall, Robert Downey Jr., and Uma Thurman into the spotlight. With a budget of $4 million and a box office triumph of $18.3 million, you’ll ...