

WHAT WENT WRONG
Sad Boom Media
What Went Wrong covers Hollywood’s most notoriously disastrous movie productions, digging into the behind-the-scenes insanity of everything from massive flops to record-breaking blockbusters. In each episode, hosts Lizzie Bassett and Chris Winterbauer dive into a new film to explore the mind-blowing (and sometimes numbing) reasons why making a movie is nearly impossible (especially a good one). Produced by David Boman.JOIN OUR PATREON FOR 'WWW' BONUS CONTENT!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 19min
The African Queen (1951)
Dive into the chaotic production of a classic film from 1951, exploring wild stories of elephants, dysentery, and even cannibalism. Discover why Hollywood icons fled to Africa amidst political turmoil and the hunting detours of director John Huston. Hear about the challenges they faced with bugs, leeches, and legal disputes, all while capturing stunning cinematography. Despite the on-location disasters, the magnetic performances of Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart shine through, showcasing both the art and chaos of filmmaking.

28 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 46min
Back To The Future
Discover the surprising journey of a beloved classic, where script changes and studio pressures shaped a pop culture phenomenon. Laugh at terrible title ideas and dive into the casting drama that led to Michael J. Fox's iconic role. Explore themes of nostalgia, creative tensions, and even Crispin Glover's landmark struggles in the franchise. Delve into how the film evolved through its rewrites and production challenges, ultimately becoming a timeless favorite that still resonates today.

Sep 10, 2025 • 19min
[Bonus Preview] The Conjuring: Last Rites
Chris and Lizzie dive into the real-life inspiration behind Ed and Lorraine Warren, debating their portrayal in films. They humorously discuss a youthful actor’s apparent agelessness and the underrepresented Amityville Horror. Analyzing emotional depth and family dynamics, they explore what made the franchise a success. The hosts tease details about the latest film, including Annabelle's new owner and box office predictions, while unpacking the franchise's commercial triumph and its potential future.

18 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 12min
This Is Spinal Tap
Imagine a world without the iconic rock mockumentary! The hosts dive into the struggles of financing 'Spinal Tap' and how Tom Petty inspired its creation. They share hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes, including a confused bassist. Discover the journey from skit to screen and the awkward but amusing demands of performers. The episode also highlights the film's lasting impact on comedy and its ongoing financial battles, reminding us of the fine line between parody and homage.

Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 45min
Fitzcarraldo
Join Mille De Chirico, co-host of the 'Dear Movies, I Love You' podcast, and filmmaker Casey O'Brien as they dive into the chaotic making of Werner Herzog's 'Fitzcarraldo.' They discuss the film's audacious ambition and the grueling production challenges faced in the Amazon. Hear personal anecdotes about the tempestuous relationship between Herzog and actor Klaus Kinski, and explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding artistic creation. This lively conversation beautifully captures the chaos and creativity of filmmaking, making it a must-listen for cinema lovers.

Aug 29, 2025 • 23min
[Bonus Preview] WWW Deep Cuts - August 2025
In this enlightening discussion, the hosts tackle the delicate balance between creative freedom and oversight in filmmaking, analyzing classics like The Shawshank Redemption. They dive deep into the ethics of truth in film adaptations, exploring how personal stories shape audience perception. Listeners contribute their insights, leading to fun corrections about beloved movie and comic characters. The episode wraps up with hilarious film anecdotes and trivia, shedding light on the quirks of the industry.

28 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 22min
Bohemian Rhapsody
Delve into the chaotic production of 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' where band dynamic clashes met a controversial director. Discover the struggles of portraying Freddie Mercury authentically amidst creative tensions. Learn about Rami Malek's journey to embody a rock legend, and how production challenges almost derailed the film. The intriguing exploration of Hollywood's darker undercurrents adds depth to the narrative. Uncover the film's dual legacy as both a box office hit and a subject of scrutiny.

11 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 58min
Below The Line - Creature Design & Practical FX (Starship Troopers)
Alec Gillis, a veteran creature designer known for his work on iconic monsters in films like 'Predators' and 'Starship Troopers', shares fascinating insights into his career. He recounts his creative journey, starting from childhood inspirations to founding his own company, Amalgamated Dynamics. Alec dives into the design process behind memorable creatures like the Graboid, and discusses the challenges and pressures of working in established franchises. He also reflects on mentorship from James Cameron and motivates young creatives to adapt to the evolving filmmaking landscape.

22 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 37min
Starship Troopers
Dive into the misunderstood brilliance of a 90s sci-fi film that blends camp with biting satire! Discover how practical effects and CGI brought giant bugs to life while examining themes of militarism and citizenship. The hosts reflect on Paul Verhoeven's directorial choices and Robert Heinlein's controversial ideologies. Get the inside scoop on the film's challenging production, including the extreme conditions faced by the cast. This journey through visual innovation and political commentary unravels the layers of a cultural phenomenon!

13 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 21min
BUGS (Primer for Starship Troopers)
Explore humanity's complex relationship with bugs, from childhood awe to adult trepidation. Delve into their portrayal in films, especially in Starship Troopers, where they morph from ecological allies to cinematic foes. Unpack the cultural significance of insects, including ancient beliefs and artistic representations. Discover how fears have shaped the genre of insect films, reflecting societal anxieties. Finally, analyze the themes of militarism and alien invasion as they intertwine with these films, showcasing our evolving fears and fascinations.