The Cannon Cruisers

Get ready for a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s with our latest podcast episode! We will be diving into "Skateboard: The Movie," a cult classic that captured the early days of skateboarding. The film, directed by George Gage and written by Dick Wolf, is a must-watch for fans of retro sports and cinema.

Join us as we explore the story of a Hollywood agent who forms a professional skateboard team to pay off his debts. The movie features impressive tricks and a vibrant 1970s soundtrack and was recently restored by Factory 25, making it both entertaining and historically significant.

This week on The Cannon Cruisers, JD and Randy dive into the raucous world of minor league hockey with the 1977 sports comedy cult classic, "Slap Shot." Directed by George Roy Hill and written by Nancy Dowd, this film stars the legendary Paul Newman alongside Michael Ontkean, and a host of real-life hockey players, creating an unforgettable blend of humor and brutality.

Join us as we explore the chaotic charm of the Charlestown Chiefs, a struggling hockey team in the Federal League that resorts to violent play to attract attention and save their team from folding. We'll discuss the film's unique pacing, its influence on future sports comedies, and the standout performances that make it a must-watch, especially for hockey enthusiasts.

From the iconic Hanson Brothers to the surprising depth of Paul Newman's portrayal of coach Reggie Dunlop, "Slap Shot" offers a wild ride through the rough-and-tumble world of 1970s hockey. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on why this film remains a beloved classic and how it continues to inspire sports films to this day.

This week, JD and Randy check out the 1976 American sports comedy gem, "The Bad News Bears." Directed by the adept Michael Ritchie and penned by the imaginative Bill Lancaster, the film features the incomparable Walter Matthau and the prodigious Tatum O'Neal, establishing a benchmark for all subsequent underdog narratives in cinema.

Tune in as The Cannon Cruisers dissect the movie's masterful fusion of wit, warmth, and nuanced storytelling. Revel in the transformational journey of Morris Buttermaker, an erstwhile professional baseball player, as he leads an eclectic bunch of youngsters to redefine the essence of baseball. Celebrated for its dynamic ensemble of both seasoned actors and spirited young talent, "The Bad News Bears" endures as an iconic classic in the realm of sports films.

Dive deep with JD and Randy as they analyze the film's rhythmic flow, visionary direction, and intricate character arcs that distinguish it from the typical sports comedy fare. The duo also sheds light on the film's enduring legacy and its inspirational impact on future generations of storytellers. Don't miss this insightful tribute to a film that continues to capture hearts and inspire underdogs everywhere.

This week in our ongoing summer sports special, the Cannon Cruisers are delving into the dystopian future of the 1975 sci-fi sports classic, "Rollerball," directed by Norman Jewison and starring James Caan. Join JD and Randy as they explore the film's unique blend of brutal sport and societal commentary with their signature wit and charm.

Discover how Rollerball, a sport designed to suppress individualism, reflects themes of control and rebellion. JD and Randy will discuss the film's pacing, direction, and how it makes a fictional sport feel real and engaging.

Don't miss their take on this underrated gem and its relevance today. Tune in for a wild ride through one of sci-fi's most thought-provoking sports spectacles!

"The Great Depression's Bare-Knuckle Brawler" - Summer Special Episode

Step into the world of underground street fighting during the Great Depression with our latest podcast episode! This week, we dive into "Hard Times" (1975), a gripping action drama directed by Walter Hill and starring Charles Bronson and James Coburn.

Join us as we explore the film's authentic portrayal of the 1930s, its timeless quality, and the standout performances by its cast. Learn about the movie's influence on later works and why it's a must-watch for fans of classic cinema and sports dramas alike.

Don't miss our in-depth discussion about this underrated gem.

"The Mean Machine is Back in Action!"

This week, JD and Randy kick off their summer special with a deep dive into the 1974 classic sports drama, "The Longest Yard," starring Burt Reynolds as Paul "Wrecking" Crewe. Directed by Robert Aldrich, this film blends drama, comedy, and sports in a prison setting.

How does this 70s film hold up today? What makes it a trendsetter for future sports movies? Join JD and Randy as they explore the film's pacing, direction, and memorable characters. From its gritty prison drama to its climactic football game, they cover it all.

"Take off on the ultimate fantasy adventure!"

This week, JD and Randy check out the 1986 family film, "Flight of the Navigator."

How has the film held up after all these years? Can JD and Randy put aside any nostalgia they might have for it? Start listening now to find out!

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, JD and Randy could not meet and record together in 2020. During this time, JD recorded a series of 26 GAIDEN episodes that were not previously released on our podcast feed but only appeared on the JD-maintained Cannon Cruisers Blog.

This week, JD begins his dive into the PM ENTERTAINMENT catalogue of films, starting with:

Shotgun (1989)

Maximum Force (1992)

Rage (1995)

In a previous episode, JD discussed the 1979 horror movie "Phantasm," directed by Don Coscarelli. Over time, JD became curious to hear Randy's thoughts on the movie. So, this week, JD and Randy will discuss "Phantasm" again.

"If you're looking for horror that's got balls...IT'S FOUND YOU."

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, JD and Randy could not meet and record together in 2020. During this time, JD recorded a series of 26 GAIDEN episodes that were not previously released on our podcast feed but only appeared on the JD-maintained Cannon Cruisers Blog.