Two Dollar Late Fee Swapcast: Tales From The Video Store - The Tony Todd Tribute
Jan 5, 2025
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Corey Stevenson, co-host of a cult movie podcast, and horror writer David Irons dive into the legacy of Tony Todd, lauding his roles that go beyond 'Candyman.' They share hilarious mishaps from KISS conventions and nostalgic video store tales that influenced their love for horror. The duo also analyzes Todd's impact on films like 'Night of the Living Dead' and 'Enemy Territory,' while reflecting on the importance of preserving classic media. Their engaging banter highlights both the humor and depth of horror cinema.
The KISS Convention served as a vibrant cultural event, uniting fans of music and LGBTQ+ pride in a communal celebration.
Nostalgic reflections on video rental stores revealed their importance as community hubs for film discovery and shared cinematic experiences.
Tony Todd's tribute highlighted his significant contributions to horror cinema, showcasing his ability to elevate films and connect with audiences.
Deep dives
KISS Convention Meets Pride Parade
The KISS Convention, which occurred during a time when the band was trying to regain popularity, featured long hours of cover bands, merchandise, and discussions about KISS stories. The event coincided with San Francisco's first annual Pride Parade, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere as attendees dressed in pride-themed outfits mingled with the KISS fans. The band members, including Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, made a grand entrance in the final hours, performing some of their classic songs amidst the excitement. The concert heightened the overall festivity, with fans enthusiastically calling out song requests and participating in a memorable fan engagement experience.
Memorable Encounters with KISS
While waiting in line for autographs, the host had a humorous encounter with another fan who misinterpreted his enthusiastic imitation of Paul Stanley's stage presence. This interaction showcased the passionate fandom surrounding KISS and the lengths fans would go to express their admiration for the band. When they finally reached Paul Stanley, the host shared fond memories of attending a KISS concert at a young age, eliciting a warm response from Stanley. This moment highlighted how deeply impactful music can be, bridging generations and creating personal connections to legendary artists.
The Evolution of Video Stores
The conversation shifted to fond memories of working in and frequenting video rental stores, reflecting on both the nostalgic charm and the sometimes bizarre experiences associated with them. The speakers recalled quirky practices, such as free popcorn and even amusingly surprising items like packets of lubricant being sold at the counters. The role these video stores played in discovering new films and building a community around shared interests appeared crucial to their fond memories. This exploration underscored how video stores were cultural hubs for movie lovers, fostering a sense of camaraderie among patrons.
The Enduring Impact of Iconic Horror Characters
The discussion delved into the lasting cultural significance of iconic horror characters, like Ghostface and Michael Myers, particularly how modern audiences connect with these figures. One speaker noted that younger generations, despite not having seen the original films, still recognize characters like Ghostface due to their massive pop culture presence in video games and merchandise. This phenomenon drew reflections on how certain horror icons may fade from recognition over time, emphasizing the importance of ongoing cultural engagement with these characters. The conversation revealed a concern for the future of legacy characters like Freddy Krueger, suggesting they may struggle to remain relevant in a world dominated by newer horror trends.
Tribute to Tony Todd
The episode included a tribute to actor Tony Todd, spotlighting his extensive contributions to the horror genre, notably in films like 'Candyman' and 'Night of the Living Dead.' The speakers appreciated his unique ability to elevate projects with his compelling performances, which transformed films into iconic experiences. They also emphasized how Todd's versatility allowed him to thrive across various roles within horror, making him a cherished figure for fans and filmmakers alike. The discussions illustrated Todd's impact on horror cinema and celebration of his remarkable legacy within the genre and beyond.
Two Dollar Late Fee Presents: Tales From The Video Store! On this episode, Zak Shaffer is joined by Corey Stevenson from Podcasting After Dark and horror writer David Irons to celebrate some of the films from Tony Todd's career. Paul Stanley from KISS, the Scream franchise, and more are discussed.
As mentioned on the episode: Watch Enemy Territory from 1987 here: YouTube Watch the tv series Werewolf here: YouTube Buy David Irons books here: Amazon
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