Monster Party

MONSTER PARTY ENDS THE YEAR WITH THE KING OF ALL MONSTERS!

It's been a banner year for our favorite daikaiju, and we here at MONSTER PARTY couldn't be happier! So, let's take a trip to Monsterland and visit the subject of this epic episode, as we invite you to attend... THE MONSTER PARTY GODZILLA STOMPIN' NEW YEARS BASH!!!

For decades, Godzilla has proven to be an unstoppable pop culture force. And with the well-deserved success of GODZILLA MINUS ONE, visionary filmmaker Takashi Yamazaki has shown us that you don't need a bloated budget or a barrage of CGI clutter to give audiences an action-packed giant monster film with intelligence and heart. 

So let's pop the champagne corks and give a toast to all things Godzilla, as we ring in 2024 with this city-smashing celebration?!

Joining us for this raucous reptilian rager is an atomic breath of fresh air! He's a return guest, and a two-time Rondo award-winning writer, researcher, producer, editor, lecturer, event promoter, and Japanese film expert! And if you're any kind of self-respecting tokusatsu fan at all, you obviously know him as the author of the must-have-book, EIJI TSUBURAYA: MASTER OF MONSTERS!  MONSTER PARTY is proud to give an earth-shattering roar of welcome to... AUGUST RAGONE! (JAPANESE FANTASY FILM JOURNAL, FILMFAX, VIDEO WATCHDOG, ASIAN CULT CINEMA, SUPER 7, OTAKU USA, FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND, MARKALITE, HENSHIN! ONLINE, THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND GODZILLA)

MONSTER PARTY WISHES YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR! DESTROY ALL 2023 CALENDARS!


MONSTER PARTY GOES WALKING IN A WORDPLAY WONDERLAND!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, take the words right out of our favorite genre character's mouths. It's another celebration of sensational sentences that this time we're calling.... QUOTE PARTY 2023!!!

What better way to launch yourselves into the holidays than with a fun-filled fan-favorite game?! MONSTER PARTY presents a brand-new batch of quotes from various horror, sci-fi, and fantasy films.... and it's up to YOU to guess which ones they're from! Sounds fun, right? But a word of warning: It may be a bit harder than you might think!

Joining us for this melee of monstrous monologues is an award-winning writer and filmmaker, whose quote quotient is high. Making his MONSTER PARTY debut, please welcome.... JAMES COLE! (THE LAST RUNG ON THE LADDER, THE NIGHT BEFORE, HOPE AND MIRACLES: TWO SCREENPLAYS BY FRANK DARABONT, THE CAPE COD CHRONICLE)

MONSTER PARTY IS GONNA MAKE THIS THE BEST HOLIDAY SEASON EVER!!! BUT DON'T QUOTE US ON THAT.

Direct download: Monster_Party_Quote_Party_Jim_Cole.output.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:25pm PDT

'TIS THE SEASON FOR MONSTER KID SHOPPING!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, once again offer hideously helpful hints when it comes to finding the perfect present for that hard-to-shop-for genre enthusiast! Get the gift they won't re-gift by consulting... THE MONSTER PARTY HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023!!!

Shopping for your favorite hardcore geek can tough! You often wind up buying something they don't want, or already have. And it's not like you can walk into Nordstrom's and go to the "Stuff From A Movie No One Has Heard Of" department. That's where we can help! In this episode, we'll guide you to the gifts that will make any monster kid put down their garage kit and make merry! Whether it's books, DVDs, cosplay gear, one of a kind art pieces, or limited edition toys, MONSTER PARTY has you covered!

Speaking of a one-of-a-kind work of art, our guest is just that! Not only is he a cherished friend and past unpaid MONSTER PARTY intern, but he's also the glue that holds our yearly holiday shopping guide episodes together.  You've been dazzled by his work as an artist and toy sculpter for such entities as SEA DEMON VINYL, H.O.P. TOYS, PLANET TOY, and many Japanese companies. And who could blame you?! Please welcome back our smooth pal... KEVIN SMITH!

MONSTER PARTY WANTS TO WISH YOU THE HAPPIEST OF HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASONS! WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE ALL THE GREAT STUFF YOU'RE GETTING US!

 

 

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monster_Party_Holiday_Gift_Guide_2023_Kevin_Smith.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:36pm PDT

FEAR! IT'S WHAT'S FOR DINNER!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, prepare for the THANKSGIVING holiday by compiling the gruesome ingredients they'll need for history's most monstrous meal. Come shopping with us, won't you, as we load up on... FEARSOME FOOD!!!

Last year, MONSTER PARTY presented you with the topic, DIABOLICAL DINNERS!!!: A celebration of the most uncomfortable and inappropriate gastronomic gatherings ever put on film. But what goes into those sinister soirees? What are the evil ingredients that are sure to send a Top Chef contestant packing their knives for protection?

In this episode, expect dastardly dining that includes yucky yogurt, petrifying pies, nauseating number twos, raw rodent, mobile meat, cannibal crackers, Starfleet snacks, fiendish fungus, a carrot kook, and  more!

And since it's Thanksgiving, there's also a lot of arguing. 

Joining us for this creepy culinary confab is a dear friend of ours, and perennial guest. He's a terrifyingly talented actor, writer, artist, podcaster, and was the man who introduced us all to Chicken McNuggets and Shamrock Shakes! And for that, we our forever in his debt. Please welcome back our long-time monster kid pal... KEN DALY! (NERD POKER, STAN AGAINST EVIL, SUPER ADVENTURE TEAM, MR. SHOW WITH BOB AND DAVID, THE USUAL SUSPECTS, THE KARATE KID, QUINCY M.E., DUCK DODGERS, AND SO MUCH MORE!)

BON APPE-TERROR!!!

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Fearsome_Food_Ken_Daly.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:30pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY TRICKS YOU INTO TREATING YOURSELF!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, don their audio costumes and virtually visit your homes to inflict excitement, consternation, and mayhem! It's the time of year for our favorite holiday, and that's why we're throwing... THE MONSTER PARTY HALLOWEEN HOOTENANNY!

Join for this shivering shindig, as we sort through the mixed bag of elements that contribute to a truly memorable ALL HALLOW'S EVE. That includes crappy vintage costumes (Ben Cooper, what you were thinking?), great and not so great candy, alternative "treats," dangerous interactive mazes (tasers anyone?), essential Halloween films, scary decorations (do we really need to decorate the outside of our homes?), and more! Of course, all of this is served with the usual dollop of MONSTER PARTY bickering.

Making the scene for this fiesty festival of frights, is a return guest who is no stranger to Halloween hyjinks. He's an acclaimed filmmaker who has lent his talents to such chilling classics as THE GRAVEDANCERS, BIG ASS SPIDER, TALES OF HALLOWEEN, and the upcoming, SATANIC HISPANICS! Please welcome back our good friend and fellow monster kid... MIKE MENDEZ!

TRICK OR TREAT, SMELL OUR FEET, GIVE US SOMETHING GOOD TO EAT! Or, we'll keep our shoes on and you can send us a gift card.

Direct download: Monster_Party_Halloween_Hootenanny_Mike_Mendez.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY GETS FLOORED!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, take on a topic that literally puts a "lift" in their spirits. Push the button for terror, as MONSTER PARTY asks the question, "Is it an... ELEVATOR OR HELLAVATOR?!!!"

The elevator is one of the most signifcant inventions of the modern age. But everytime you get on board a car, isn't there always a little voice in the back of your mind that says, "I don't trust this thing." Well, when it comes to a certain sub-genre of genre films, your fears are more than justified.

In this episode, we'll discuss the many flavors of horror that the elevator has provided us in film and tevelsion. From satanic scenarios in films like, DEVIL, THE OMEN II, and VAULT OF HORROR, classic moments from THE SHINING, DAWN OF THE DEAD, and BLADE RUNNER, to offbeat entries like WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, THE LIFT and DR. TERRIBLE'S HOUSE OF HORRIBLE, there seems to be no shortage of ominous "Otis" inspired thrills. 

We also take a look at real life elevator horror story with connections to the film DARK WATER and the urban legend/creepypasta inspired pastime called, THE ELEVATOR GAME. Uggh! It's enough to make you take the stairs. In fact, for God's sake... TAKE THE STAIRS!

 

 

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Elevator_or_Hellavator.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:44pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY WELCOMES BACK AN OLD PLASTIC FRIEND!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, revisit a favorite topic that is all topics! And if that were not enough, a vital element has returned to the show that was sorely missed. Brace yourself, listeners, for... TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL: THE SKULL IS BACK!!!

Long-time listeners will know that TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL is like getting a dozen shows in one go. Traditionally, it worked like this: The MONSTER PARTY gang and their guests write down various mini-topics on a slip of paper and place them in Larry's plastic skull with the light-up eyes. The skull is shaken up, each person randomly pulls out a topic, and said topic is briefly discussed. But, the last time we did TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL, something went horribly wrong!

Larry happened to be out of town, and had left the skull back in his palatial Van Nuys apartment. But MONSTER PARTY is not a podcast to let adversity stop a show, and with some slight alterations, we managed to do the episode... skull-less.

Now, the skull has been returned to Larry Strothe's rightful control, and we can finally do the TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL the way MONSTER PARTY intended. Complete with water-damaged paper topic slips from episodes gone by. Yes... THE MOLD IS BACK AS WELL!

Joining us for this potpourri of petrifying possibilities is a long-time friend of MONSTER PARTY, as well as an ultra-talented comedian, actor, writer, and cartoonist! He's the genius behind MATTA NAPKIN (the daily series of hilarious cartoons, all drawn on cocktail napkins), as well as co-writing two episodes of BEWARE THE BATMAN with some guy named MATT WEINHOLD. Please welcome back the man, the legend... JOHN MATTA! (THE EPIC TALES OF CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS, BE COOL SCOOBY DOO, GRAND MARQUEE, DUCK DODGERS, STEVE HARVEY'S BIG TIME CHALLENGE, THE MARTIN SHORT SHOW)

THE SKULL IS BACK! DEAL WITH IT!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Topic_Free-For-All_The_Skull_Returns_John_Matta.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:07pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY GOES ON A TACTILE TIRADE!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, make their case for what is clearly the most reliable way to get, and keep, your favorite movies and TV shows! When it comes to media, MONSTER PARTY says... LET'S GET PHYSICAL!!!

In this episode, MONSTER PARTY salutes physical media in all its forms. We're look at the early days of 8mm, Super 8 films, and 16mm films, the Betamax vs. VHS war, the birthof bonus supplements with the introduction of the laserdisc, the incredibly brief run of the stylus based videodisc, the DVD and Blu-ray revolution, the selective appeal of home 3-D, and try to answer the question, "To 4K or not to 4K?" And if that were not enough white-hot format talk for you, we even sing the praises of the Viewmaster, and it's predecessors, the Stereoscope and Stereoopticon!

Joining us for this audio innoculation for "streamingitis" is not only an expert on the subject of phsical media, but a man who is nothing short of showbiz nobility. He's a comedy club trailblazer who owned and operated the legendary, Cobb's Comedy Club (featured in the award-winning documentary, The Comedy Club) and helped guide the careers of many of a comedy star. If that were not enough, he's also a quite talented voice artist, actor, and improviser, as well. Making his MONSTER PARTY debut, please welcome... TOM SAWYER!

IF YOU'RE LIKE US AND WANT TO BE BURIED IN VHS CLAMSHELL-SHAPED COFFIN, THIS IS AN EPISODE YOU CANNOT MISS!

 

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Lets_Get_Physical_Tom_Sawyer.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:14pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY TAKES A TANTALIZING TOUR OF TOKUSATSU TREMENDOUSNESS!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, join together to form a Voltron-esque robot of fun, as we storm the halls of THE BURBANK AIRPORT MARRIOT.  Accompany us on a Far East adventure in tropical stormy LA, as we bring you the...  JAPAN WORLD HEROES EXPO 2023!!!

While interviewing super-talented artist, toy painter, mega-collector, and convention mogul, SCOTT ZILNER at MONSTERPALOOZA 2023, he offered us a booth at his upcoming JAPAN WORLD HEROES EXPO. This event celebrates the things MONSTER PARTY loves: Ultraman, Kamen Rider, super sentai, kaiju, celebrities, toys, art, collectibles, and all thing Japan-cool! The show is held only once every two years, and needless to say, we immediately accepted Scott's gracious offer.

Cut to the convention: All our dreams are being realized! We're meeting fans and cosplayers, swimming in sea of rare/exclusive collectibles, hosting our own panel, and spending WAY too much money!

If that were not joy enough, we also got to hob-nob with such celebrities like KURT CARLEY (GODZILLA, UNDERWORLD), TOHORU MASAMUNE (TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D.), ALEXIS RHEE (BLADERUNNER, BLACK PANTHER), and MORE!

And of course, expect the usual delightful banter and personal attacks you've come to expect from the MONSTER PARTY gang!

ATTENTION: Definitely stick around after the end music for even more great inteviews, as well as an enlightening/infuriating discussion between Matt and James. It'll make you wanna yell... HENSHIN! And maybe some other things.

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Japan_World_Heroes_Expo.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:07pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY SERVES UP A STREAMING PILE OF FUN!
 
JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, play catch up with some of Hollywood's latest offerings, as well as unearth a treasure from the past. It's time for another round of film criticism with a healthy dose of adolescent bickering, as we bring you.... WHAT WE'RE WATCHING VOL. 4!!!
 
First we address the elephant... well, more like alien whale in the room... AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER. With Matt finally seeing this box office-breaking blockbuster, the gang wages what can only be described as all-out movie bashing warfare.
 
Then, we move on to some divided and often volatile opinions on GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3, BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER, SECRET INVASION, THE FLASH, BEAU IS AFRAID, OPPENHEIMER, BARBIE, and ALIEN 3, not to mention some other surprises.
And finally, the boys discuss the1967 Korean kaiju classic... SPACE MONSTER WANGMAGWI. Thought to be a lost film, a print was recently located and is now available on Bluray by SRS CINEMA. Believe us folks, this film has to be seen to be believed!
 
Joining us for this scintillating session of cinematic skewering, is someone who is a true master of his field! He's an award-winning writer and artist, who has brought us such comic classics as BLACK TERROR, BATMAN: THRILLKILLER, SUPERMAN AND BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD’S FINEST, JLA: SEVEN CASKETS, as well as his own groundbreaking series, THE NOCTURNALS. He's also done some amazing album art for numerous bands including, TOTO, FIREBALL MINISTRY, GHOULTOWN, and ROB ZOMBIE’S HELLBILLY DELUXE. Please welcome back, friend of the show... DAN BRERETON!
 
WARNING: THIS EPISODE CONTAINS MANY SPOILERS, SO PLEASE WATCH EVERY FILM EVER MADE BEFORE LISTENING!
Direct download: Monster_Party_What_Were_Watching_Dan_Brereton.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:52pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY RETURNS TO COMIC CON! YEAH, WE DO A LOT OF NICE THINGS.

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, brave the halls of the San Diego Convention Center once again, to bathe in a veritable sea of fellow nerds. Join us post con, as we dissect the peculiar set of circumstances that was... COMIC CON 2023!!!

I'm sure most of you know by now that Monster Party's origins can be traced back to the days of Comic Cons past. After the exhibit hall would shut down, we'd all go back to one of our hotel rooms for cocktails followed by impassioned nerd debates. It's been over a decade since those pre-Monster Party days, but some things never change.

Join us as we discuss some of the unique aspects about COMIC COMIC 2023, including the strike induced lack of studio presence, the various treasures to be found at this year's show, some beloved children's show celebrities, the awesome cosplay team of James and Larry, the usual griping about Star Trek, and oh so much more!

We also are graced by some special guests including game expert STEPHANIE BOURDO, MONSTER PARTY super-fan and paper artist extraordinaire JIMM JENKINS, and THE LEGAL GEEKS own JOSH GILLILAND!

COMIC CON MAY BE OVER, BUT THE STRIKES CONTINUE! STAY STRONG EVERYBODY!

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Comic_Con_2023.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:36pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY WHIPS IT GOOD!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, pay tribute to an iconic character whose adventures have spanned over 30 years. He's everyone's favorite whip-wielding archeologist, which kind of narrows it down. Cue exhilarating John Williams music as we present an episode that could only be titled... INDIANA JONES!!!

From that first screening of RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK back in 1981, we all were unexpectedly awed by the epic heroism of Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones. Sure, the following films and TV shows have been a mixed bag, but through better or worse, it's safe to say that Indy has always been a hero we've been rooting for. 

In this episode, we dissect the Indiana Jones phenomenon in detail. Is Raiders a truly perfect film? Is Temple of Doom too violent and just not Indy enough? Does Last Crusade have too many gags? Is Crystal Skull way too Shia LaBeoufy? Who was The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles actually intended for? Did Dial of Destiny redeem the series? What are the best Indiana Jones collectibles? And how do you explain to your in-laws why you have all those whips?

Charging at us like a giant rolling ball of talent, information, and charisma, is a return guest and long time MONSTER PARTY benefactor. He's a renowned artist, foam fabricator, creature creator, puppet builder, monster maker, SFX makeup wizard, and film industry professional, not to mention an all-around fantastic person. And hey, he even worked on an Indiana jones movie! Please welcome back, the great... TED HAINES! (INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL, I'M A VIRGO, THE AVATAR FILM SERIES, THE CAT IN THE HAT, THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, BLADE II, WISHMASTER, SCREAM, FROM DUSK TILL DAWN, THE JUNGLE BOOK, PULP FICTION, THE TICK)

WARNING: THERE ARE A LOT OF SPOILERS IN THIS EPISODE, SO PLEASE LISTEN RESPONSIBLY.

NOW HAVE A LISTEN! IT'S MORE FUN THAN HAVING YOUR FACE MELTED OFF!

 

 

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Indiana_Jones_Ted_Haines.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:46pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY CELEBRATES ANOTHER AUDACIOUS ANNIVERSARY!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, have defied the neysayers once again, and reached a monstrous milestone! Can your fragile minds fully comprehend the cataclysmic consequences of MONSTER PARTY finally reaching... THE 250TH EPISODE!!!?

When MONSTER PARTY dropped it's first episode back in 2013, little did we know that nearly ten years later, we'd still be bickering about science fiction, horror, fantasy, comic books, toy collecting, and all the other odd offshoots of genre entertainment. But here we are, 250 friggin' episodes in, and not only are we as monster kid obsessed as ever... but we're still talking to each other! Well, yelling.

In all seriousness, doing MONSTER PARTY has done much to enrich our lives. It's deepened our friendships, helped us weather a global pandemic, got us in both FANGORIA and  FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND magazines, got us all to JAPAN, introduced us to the world of Blu-ray commentary, nabbed us two RONDO AWARD HONORABLE MENTIONS, and provided us with an ever-growing family of beloved guests and fans. 

Speaking of fans, we could not have gotten this far without the kindness and support of our listeners, and we treasure you all like a vintage MIP MEGO figure with a bouquet of 70's air. We thank you, we love you, and we promise to make our next 250 episodes an even more epic adventure!

LONG LIVE MONSTER PARTY! AND DEFINITELY STICK AROUND AFTER THE END MUSIC FOR A SPECIAL "DOES JAMES HATE SCIENCE FICTION?" DEBATE, SORTA LIVE FROM MONSTERPALOOZA 2023! WITH SPECIAL GUEST, JIM MOORE, OF "MOORE MONSTERS."

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monster_Party_The_250th_Episode.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:12pm PDT

MORE MONSTER PARTY FUN FROM HORROR'S MOST UNCONVENTIONAL CONVENTION!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, stalk the halls of the Pasadena Convention Center, searching for more audio prey. Shine up your Phantasm orb and start sewing up your human centipede for this celebration of scares we appropriately call... MONSTERPALOOZA 2023 PT. 2!!!

In MONSTERPALOOZA 2023 PT. 1, the MONSTER PARTY gang manned their convention booth and interviewed a variety of fans, new friends, cosplayers, artists, and industry professionals who attended the show on Friday night. The evening went went so well that we decided to do it again on Saturday, resulting in yet another excitement packed episode! If you've never had the opportunity to make a pilgrimage to this epic event, here's a chance to experience it through us!

AND IF YOU WANT MORE, BECOME A MONSTER PARTY PATREON PATRON, AND EXPERIENCE MONSTERPALOOZA 2023 PT. 3!!!

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monsterpalooza_2023_PT_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:55pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY RETURNS TO THE REAL HALLS OF HORROR!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, once again fired up the hearse, and headed out to petrifying Pasadena, for the horror convention that reigns over all! Pay a virtual trip to the MONSTER PARTY booth, as we we present... MONSTERPALOOZA 2023: PT 1!!!

The action started as every MONSTERPALOOZA does. We spent all day Friday setting up our table and various accoutrements, just in time for when the doors opened to the public. And once that happened... it was pure magic! 

In case you were born under a rock (which is quite horrifying in and of itself), MONSTERPALOOZA is the bi-yearly convention that celebrates all aspects of horror entertainment. It's got actors, writers, directors, special FX makeup, masks, artwork, clothing, toys, cosplay, rare treasures, limited collectibles, museum pieces, friendly fans, plus a whole lot more!

And to make things extra special this year, Shawn Sheridan managed to take a break from employment, for a rare Friday night appearance! 

It was a pleasure to talk to all our old and new friends, industry professionals and the public alike.  And if you were not able to make it to this breathtaking event, consider this your V.I.P. tour.

 Stay tuned for PART 2! It's even more MONSTROUS!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monsterpalooza_2023_PT1.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:50pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY TAKES ON THE DANGEROUS MISSION OF DEFUSING SOME BOMBS!

In this episode, JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, attempt to save the reputation of some of the genre's most maligned movies. It's a philosophical film challenge of monster kid proportions, that we've cleverly called... BAD MOVIE... OR IS IT?!!!

When we consider the ingredients that make a genre movie "bad," we think of things like poor scripts, laughable acting, and questionable special effects. But in certain instances, those elements can result in something quite entertaining. And even films with all the right ingredients can be misundertood and under-appreciated by both critics and audiences. It can simply be a matter of bad timing. We're talkin' to you, Zardoz!

Well luckily, the timing was right for booking the guest in this episode. She's a lifelong sci-fi fan and mega-talented writer, who has worked on such fan favorites as MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 and HANGIN' WITH DR. Z. Please welcome, for the first time on MONSTER PARTY... TAMMY GOLDEN!

NOW GO GIVE THAT TURKEY SOME LOVE! UNLESS THAT'S ILLEGAL IN YOUR STATE.

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Bad_Movie_Or_Is_It_Tammy_Golden.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:01pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY GETS A FEW THINGS OFF THEIR TOY CHEST!

SHAWN SHERIDAN, JAMES GONIS, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, return to a topic that has shaped their lives, and maxed out their credit cards. So gather your Mego figures around your favorite podcast listening device, and brace yourselves for... THE MONSTER PARTY TOY TIRADE!!!

It's no secret that the hosts of MONSTER PARTY love toys! Old, new, mint, loose, or custom, collecting toys is a passion that can  border on obsession. And with current world-wide acceptance of nerd culture, this love of so-called childish things shows no signs of stopping.

In this frank and often bellicose discussion, MONSTER PARTY addresses the various complexities of having an ever-growing toy collection. How did this all start? How did/does it affect your love life? What are your toy pet peeves? What were the toys that got away? How do we keep up with all the great new stuff coming? And so much more, dear listeneners!

Joining us for this riotous rant, is a Rondo award-winning journalist, filmmaker, blogger, producer, magazine editor, and cherished member of the MONSTER PARTY family! Aside from bringing us the classic long-form 80's horror documentary trilogy, IN SEARCH OF DARKNESS, he is also a connesuir of classic toys and collectibles. Please welcome back, the man, the legend... DAVID WEINER! (ALIENS EXPANDED, IN SEARCH OF DARKNESS PT 1-3, IN SEARCH OF TOMORROW, FAMOUS MONSTER OF FILMLAND, IT CAME FROM... BLOG, ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT)

So if you like to hear grown men pontificating about the various toylines of STAR WARS, DUNE, ALIEN, NECA, STAR TREK, GODZILLA, SECTAURS, FUNKO POPS, UNIVERSAL MONSTERS, SUPER 7, MEGO, G.I. JOE, PLANET OF THE APES, SIDESHOW, HOT TOYS, and more... you might want to get in on this!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monster_Party_Toy_Tirade_David_Weiner.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:30pm PDT

ONCE AGAIN, MONSTER PARTY GOES TOPIC-LESS! WILL IT ALSO FINALLY GO PANTLESS?

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, revisit the topic that is no topic, yet all topics! It's a no holds barred onslaught of off-the-cuff chit-chat that for absolutely no reason, we are calling... ANYTHING GOES: THE OBLITERATION!!!

Welcome to a free range exploration of the peculiar mindscapes that occupy the MONSTER PARTY cast! We don't want to spoil anything, but if you like spicy banter about Star Wars, Star Trek, Planet of the Apes, gashapon, movie set archeology, future carpet tech, superhero streets, and sci-fi plumbling, this episode is definitely your jam!

Joining us for this conversational cataclysm is a return guest and MONSTER PARTY pal, who never ceases to amaze! He's an ingenious painter, sculptor, graphic artist, and makeup FX wizard, who has lent his talents to such companies as KNB EFX GROUP and DON POST STUDIOS! Please welcome back the incomparable... MARK TAVARES! (LAND OF THE DEAD, SPY KIDS, WISHMASTER, FROM DUSK TILL DAWN, HONEY I BLEW UP THE KID, CHILD'S PLAY 3, BILL & TED'S BOGUS ADVENTURE, IN THE MOUTH OF MADNESS, DR. GIGGLES, BRIDE OF RE-ANIMATOR, A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 5: THE DREAM CHILD, SUPER ADVENTURE TEAM (With MATT WEINHOLD!), and MANY MORE!

THIS TIME, ANYTHING GOES ON AND ON AND ON!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Anything_Goes_The_Obliteration__Mark_Tavares.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:37pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY WANTS TO HAVE A WORD WITH YOU!

This time, JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, take a psychiatric approach to fun! No, it's not getting juiced up on meds and wrestling each other in a padded room. It's... THE MONSTER PARTY WORD ASSOCIATION GAME!!!

This game works just the way you think! The members of MONSTER PARTY take turns presenting a word to the others, and must immediately respond with the first horror, sci-fi, or fantasy thing that pops into their heads. It's just that simple... and disturbing!

This topic was first stress-tested in a special, PATREON ONLY episode, and was proven to be sound. It also proves that there's nothing better for body and mind than becoming a MONSTER PARTY PATRON! Well, there may be a few things better. Like some med-fueled padded room wrestling!

We think you'll enjoy this rare peek inside the collective subconscious of MONSTER PARTY, and hope you'll try this game out with your family and friends. If they can handle it!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monster_Party_Word_Association_Game.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:58pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY HAS A CULT FOLLOWING! AND WE CAN'T WAIT FOR IT TO CATCH US!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, take another in-depth look at the films that fly below the mainstream, yet have managed to gain a loving and loyal audience. Can your viewing queue handle the stress as... THE KILLER CULT FILMS STRIKE BACK!

Like in our previous cult film episodes, we present a more than ample helping of mind-blowing, genre-bending cinema, gauranteed to spice up any midnight movie night. We've got imaginative foreign films, unhinged horror gems, sci-fi curios, outrageous comedies, rock-n' roll fantasies, cult film classics, fun failures, and more! So much more, we'll have to do another episode!

Joining us once again for this orgy of oddities, is our go-to guide to the off-beat. He's a celebrated film historian, author, journalist, reviewer, and host of the eternally-running cable TV show, MEDIA FUNHOUSE! Please welcome back, our MONSTER PARTY cult film curator... ED GRANT! (THE MOTION PICTURE GUIDE, TV GUIDE, MOVIES ON TV, FILMS IN REVIEW, PSYCHOTRONIC VIDEO, VIDEOSCOPE, THE VIDEO MOVIE GUIDE, GROOVY MOVIES)

THE KILLER CULT FILMS ARE BACK! AND IF YOU'RE LUCKY... YOU MAY BE THEIR VICTIM!

Direct download: Monster_Party_The_Killer_Cult_Films_Strike_Back_Ed_Grant.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:40pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY BRINGS YOU A PETRIFYING PROGRAM OF PECULIAR PAIRINGS! 

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, delve the depths of their film knowledge, to create the ultimate in imaginary movie mashups. Get your hot-oiled popcorn ready for... THE MONSTER PARTY MOVIE MARQUEE!!!

In a game that we're fairly confident you've all played, we come up with our own dream billings of horror, science fiction, and fantasy films. We're talkin' double features, triple features, and even "Go Ape" style movie marathons. We've linked the films by theme, but also by title, with the later primarily for comedic effect. Because we love comedic effects! But only if they're practical.

Joining us for all this marquee-noclastic merriment , is a film connoisseur, a valued friend, and a return guest! He's not only a renowned actor, TV host, filmmaker, and comedian (from The Tonight Show!!!), but a long time MONSTER PARTY supporter and fan! Please welcome back, the eternally entertaining... MARK PITTA! (THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JOHNNY CARSON, THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO, MAD ABOUT YOU, 3RD ROCK FROM THE SUN, DR. KATZ: PROFESSIONAL THERAPIST, MORNINGS ON 2, TOTALLY HIDDEN VIDEO)

FOR THIS EPISODE, MONSTER PARTY IS BOOKING THE THEATER! BUT WE TAKE NO RESPONSIBILTY FOR THE HOTDOGS!

 

 

 

 

Direct download: Monster_Party_Monster_Party_Movie_Marquee_Mark_Pitta.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:34pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY GOES TO WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE FACE!

SHAWN SHERIDAN, JAMES GONIS, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, genuflect at the feet of the artform that has shaped them! Raises your glasses and man your bladder pumps, as MONSTER PARTY salutes... THE ART OF PRACTICAL EFFECTS!!!

MONSTER PARTY loves practical effects! Sure, CGI is now all the rage, but nothing puts a spring in our step like seeing an actor bring life to a foam rubber makeup appliance! Or an animatronic alien wreaking havoc!! Or latex skin bubbling! Or stop motion dinosaurs! Or live action dinosaurs! Or... Sorry.  Sometimes we get a bit carried away.

In this episode, we champion the genius of classic makeup legends like Lon Chaney, Jack Pierce, John Chambers, William Tuttle, and the Westmore family, as well as the groundbreaking work of trailblazers like Dick Smith, Rick Baker, Rob Bottin, and Stan Winston. And in the SFX category, we've always got some love for greats like Willis O' Brien, Ray Harryhausen, and Eiji Tsuburaya! 

Joining us for this parade of practical praise, is a guest who knows of what he speaks He's an Emmy Award-winning makeup FX artist, who has worked on such iconic  projects as JOHN CARPENTER'S THE THING, LEGEND, THE INCREDIBLE HULK TV MOVIES, CRITTERS, TREMORS, COMMUNION, STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION, STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE, MEN BLACK, CSI, and MORE! Please welcome our new mega-talented monster kid friend .. JOHN GOODWIN!

AND... IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE (HOW COULD YOU NOT?), PLEASE CHECK OUT OUR SPECIAL "PATREON ONLY" EPISODE WITH JOHN GOODWIN AT THE VALLEY RELICS MUSEUM! IT'S THE PRACTICAL THING TO DO.

Direct download: Monster_Party_The_Art_of_Practical_Effects_John_Goodwin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:28pm PDT

MONSTER PARTY WANTS TO BE YOUR VALENTINE! BUT... IT PROBABLY WON'T WORK OUT.

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, fully embrace the true VALENTINE'S DAY spirit, with an episode that explores the genre pitfalls of love. Get ready for Cupid's arrow to tear your heart out and show it to you, as MONSTER PARTY presents... DOOMED ROMANCES!!!

Let's face it, when it comes to maintaining a healthy relationship in horror, sci-fi, or fantasy films, the track record isn't good. Sure, at the end of some films, it my seem like the happy couples go off to live happily ever after... but what about after that? And what if you're in love with a monster? Or an alien? Or a murderer? Or all three at once? And don't get us started about dudes who don't tell you about their army of rats!

To help us understand the complexities of all these dubious hookups, we enlisted the best romance expert we could find, with the least amount of effort. She's an Emmy Award winning comedian, actor, writer, director, producer, and a dear friend of MONSTER PARTY, not to mention, the object of your doomed affections. Please welcome back, the always awesome... SUE MURPHY (THE SOUP, CHELSEA LATELY, WANDA AT LARGE, THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN, THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO, THE JEFF FOXWORTHY SHOW, THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW, EWOKS)

MONSTER PARTY LOVES YOU! IT'S JUST THAT WE'RE NOT IN LOVE WITH YOU.

Direct download: Monster_Party_Doomed_Romances_Sue_Murphy.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:59pm PDT

LOOK! UP IN THE SKY! IT'S A BIRD! IT'S A PLANE! IT'S... WE HAVE NO IDEA!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, unearth some of the strange, stupid, or forgotten superheroes of yesteryear. Get ready for a heapin' helping of hazy heroics, as MONSTER PARTY presents... SUPERHERO OBSCURA!!!

In this current golden age of superhero films, TV shows, video games, and of course, comic books, there has been no shortage of A-list meta-human material. And during this time, a few lesser known characters like The Guardians of the Galaxy have blasted their way to being household names. Does this mean that some other forgotten heroes may have a chance to re-surface and make it to the big time? In this podcast, we hope to make that happen!

We've got obscure superheroes from golden age funnybooks, defunct publishers, little known satirical sendups, short-lived cartoons, failed TV pilots, and more!

Joining us in "The Fortress of Monster-tude," is a long-time friend and supporter of our show. He's an acclaimed author, writer, actor, improvisor, and podcaster, who also has the fascinating job of coming up with names for the world's most memorable things! Um, Swiffer anyone? MONSTER PARTY is proud to welcome back the lovely and talented... MARC HERSHON! (SUCCOTASH: THE COMEDY SOUNDCAST SOUNDCAST, THE FUNSTER, I HATE PEOPLE!, THE CALIFORNIANS, WEDDING DAZE, MONSTER MAKERS, SANTA JR., DIRECTOR OF NAMING AND VERBAL IDENTITY AT LANDOR & FITCH)

MONSTER PARTY SAYS: "UNMEMORABLES ASSEMBLE!"

Direct download: Monster_Party_Superhero_Obscura_Marc_Hershon.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:14pm PDT

ONCE AGAIN, MONSTER PARTY IS READY FOR A ROOM RUMBLE!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, return to the hypothertical "room" where your favorite genre characters get up in each other's grill. Get ready for another round of ferocious face offs, as we bring you... WHO WOULD WIN? VOL. 7: CARNAGEPALOOZA!!!

Long time listeners know how these episodes work, but for those of you just tuning in, here's the deal. It's just like the classic schoolyard game where you choose fictional characters from sci-fi, horror, and fantasy, put them in a room, and force them to do battle. Why? Because you can!

Joining us for this pugnacious podcast is a long-time friend of the show, who always knows a good fight when he sees one one. He's not only a successful actor, director, producer, and voice artist, but also the founder of the enormously popular, BIF! BANG POW! TOYS. And if that were not enough to make you swoon, he's currently the host of the YouTube sensation, PLASTIC SOUL: THE POP CULTURE SHOW BY ENTERTAINMENT EARTH! MONSTER PARTY is absolutely giddy to welcome back... JASON LENZI! (CANNONBALL, WIPEOUT, SUPERGROUP, BANDS REUNITED, BEAT THE GEEKS, LET'S BOWL)

MONSTER PARTY WANTS A PIECE OF YOU! SPECIFICALLY, THE PART THAT LISTENS TO OUR SHOW.

Direct download: Monster_Party_Who_Would_Win_Vol_7_Carnagepalooza_Jason_Lenzi.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:21pm PDT

THE TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL IS BACK, BUT A CERTAIN PROP HAD OTHER PLANS!

JAMES GONIS, SHAWN SHERIDAN, LARRY STROTHE, and MATT WEINHOLD, return to the topic that is all topics! But due to a slight hiccup, we don't have our beloved plastic skull full of exciting, and sometimes moldy talking points. Thus, we present... TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL: OUT OF OUR SKULL EDITION!!!

In past "TOPIC FREE-ALL" episodes, we'd usually pull strips of paper with random topics out a plastic skull, and discuss whatever was written on them. But at the last minute, we discovered the skull was inaccessible. Not giving in to defeat, we quickly retooled our topic choosing process, and the show was saved! But we're not going to lie... the skull was missed.

One thing that did go very right was our choice of a guest! He's an acclaimed comedian, writer, cartoonist, friend of the show, and no stranger to TOPIC FREE-FOR-ALL! MONSTER PARTY is pleased to start the new year with the lovely and talented... JOHN MATTA! (MATTA NAPKIN, BEWARE THE BATMAN, THE EPIC TALES OF CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS, BE COOL, SCOOBY DOO!, DUCK DODGERS, THE MARTIN SHORT SHOW)

BONUS: IF ALL THIS IS NOT ENOUGH NEW YEAR MERRIMENT, WE'VE GOT A SPECIAL REVIEW OF THE NEW NETFLIX SERIES, "WEDNESDAY", BY OUR OWN KATHY STROTHE! IT'S TUBULAR!

SUCK ON THAT 2023!

Direct download: Monster_Party_Topic_Free-For-All_Out_Of_Our_Skull_Edition_John_Matta.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:56pm PDT

1