Ep. 12 - Movie Rewind! As We Wish!

This transcript was automatically generated and might contain errors.

[0:00] J.J.: So, everybody knows this about me. That you're short?

[0:10] Olaf: There's that. But people don't know that if they don't have never met me. I'm sitting in a chair. You don't know how short I actually am.

[0:13] J.J.: He's actually standing, guys.

[0:23] Olaf: No, I'm not. So there are a lot of people that run, and they like to be lost in their thoughts or lost in whatever outside nature is around them. That is not how I operate. I need music.

[0:34] J.J.: So I listen to what I would think is an eclectic mix of music. But it got me to thinking, what music do you listen to? Or is there a set, like a set list you listen to when you just need to get pumped up for a show? Or you know, you're into something. And if so, do you have any music from movies? Because I'll tell you right now, I'm going to call myself out. I've got the theme song to Chariots of Fire on my playlist. I mean, it's straight cliché. I'll be that guy. But I love that piece of music. And it's there. And sometimes it'll be my I'm about to start running number one on the top of my list song.

[1:02] Olaf: Oh yeah.

[1:22] J.J.: One, it reminds me of that movie. Two, because it reminds me of National Lampoon's Vacation when they're running to the entrance of Wally World. And three, it's just a great piece of music. And so I thought, well, I wonder, because I know you are a big movie composer fan and soundtrack guy. Is there something that you would go like, this is the song that's getting me to where I need to go mentally? I mean, I have playlists for like, I'm just on a road trip. So I got to have this. And that's going to keep me going. I've got playlists when I'm feeling introspective. I wouldn't say sad, but just like music that really just gets me in my head. I've got music that I just want to be like happy and go lucky, like, ah, not a care in the world. And then I got to get pumped up. That's what I wanted. Like, if I was going to the gym or something, I would play that. And then I have another one that's similar. And that one's literally just straight movie scores that get you going.

[2:22] Olaf: But OK, even the other ones, they have movie scores in the playlist. Is there a go to like, got to have this. I'm about to push play on this because it's going to do what it needs to do. It's going to get the job done.

[2:37] J.J.: Well, I mean, like if I really want to focus and drive fast or something, like nothing's better than the Danny Elfman Batman '89 score. OK, like charge that mobile or attack of the Batwing or even just the opening theme. I have bits from Terminator and Terminator two in my playlist for like working out or something. One of my favorite bits of music from all of Indiana Jones is Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade in the beginning of the Steel Beast.

[3:11] Olaf: OK, or that piece is called.

[3:18] J.J.: Yeah, I love that piece so much. It's a piece. But yeah, I've got the Superman theme, John Williams. I mean, like that when you said drive fast, I'm like, I would do the Superman to drive fast for whatever reason.

[3:30] Olaf: Oh no, because then I'm like in the Batmobile.

[3:36] J.J.: Well, that's fair because the score for Superman is so iconic and great and amazing. But it's more of this promise of hope and uplifting where the Danny Elfman Batman score is more like let's get to business.

[3:52] Olaf: Well, when I'm running, I need the hope. I need the promise of hope that I'll hopefully get to the finish line.

[3:57] J.J.: So that's fair. Well, as amazing as this topic is, and I know we have wanted to talk about music and movies as a whole episode, and we will, that is not what we're here to talk about today.

[4:08] Olaf: No, we're here to talk about something that, funny enough, has terrible music.

[4:13] J.J.: I don't, I see. I disagree. We'll get into it. We'll get into it. But first, let's get back to the movie theater.

[4:34] Olaf: Wow, what an interesting segue into what we're going to talk about, because I've got to say it. If we're going to broach the topic of music in this movie, I have to come out and say that with the exception of like two pieces, if I'm generous, maybe three. The soundtrack is not good.

[4:55] J.J.: Well, how about we let everybody know what movie we're talking about, especially if they haven't read the liner notes in terms of just jumping into this episode. We are going to be talking about The Princess Bride.

[5:05] Olaf: Yeah, I kind of grew up with this movie.

[5:12] J.J.: Oh, yeah, absolutely. Do you remember you said you remember when you saw this movie?

[5:18] Olaf: I do. So this movie came out in '87. This movie didn't do well.

[5:26] J.J.: Shocking.

[5:26] Olaf: Until shocking. But the summer of '88, we would go to the beach for the summer for like a week. And I remember we either had the video or was on TV or something. And we just started watching it. And I just thinking, like, what is this? Because as we all know, this movie spans like five different genres.

[5:43] J.J.: Oh, yes.

[5:43] Olaf: It's like everything. If you're at a first viewing, you're just sitting there trying to take it all in. And I was 10. And so to me, it was just like, this is really cool. I'd never read the book. I'd never heard of the book. And so this was my first exposure to this movie. And because when it came out, I had no idea. And so watching it and having that first impression of, you know, the sword fighting and the I was going to say the music, even though I like the music. But there are certain pieces of music that I said to maybe three pieces, but everything. And I knew Billy Crystal. And we're going to dive into the casting. But what his particular scene really stuck out to me initially and still does, of course. But there are just certain moments and all of these characters are so larger than life that it really made a huge impression on me right out of the gate.

[6:32] J.J.: Yeah. I think I was also probably around 10 or so.

[6:40] Olaf: OK. I, funny enough, was homesick and my mom put it on and I was swept away.

[6:49] J.J.: Yeah. Almost immediately.

[6:56] Olaf: Yeah. This movie took me by surprise. It took me on a wonderful magic journey with romance and action. And it does have a little bit. It has something, I think, for everybody.

[7:02] J.J.: And it really does. And it's set up that way, even in the first scene of the movie, when Peter Falk as a grandfather comes in and is trying to explain what this book is to Fred Savage that he's about to read to him.

[7:13] Olaf: Yeah. Let's get into this. So this movie, it's an hour and 38 minutes.

[7:21] J.J.: Yeah. Which is today's standards. Kind of short.

[7:28] Olaf: Yeah. But I'll tell you what, just kind of sort of rewatching this today. This movie flies.

[7:33] J.J.: It is. It has no pacing issues at all. It is not stopping for anything. It's like, go, go, go.

[7:40] Olaf: Even when the story itself stops, you know, Fred Savage's character sort of stops the grandfather from reading the book. Even in those moments, it doesn't feel like, oh, now we got to reset and restart.

[7:47] J.J.: The meta score for this is a 78, which is kind of low. I think it's that's an old. I don't think I think that's a meta score that hasn't been updated just because people don't. You know, I think if you were to if you were to pull people now would probably be a lot higher.

[8:03] Olaf: Yeah. The Rotten Tomatoes score is a ninety-six percent, which I think is pretty solid.

[8:09] J.J.: Yeah, I would agree a little higher. But and then the audience score is ninety-four percent.

[8:15] Olaf: So come on, guys, that is. I think that's this like our generation needing to show it to the younger generations, which, you know, maybe this was directed by Rob Reiner, who.

[8:28] J.J.: Yes. I mean, he's done so many great, wonderful things.

[8:35] Olaf: This is Spinal Tap.

[8:35] J.J.: Stand by me.

[8:39] Olaf: Oh, gosh. Stand by me. Yeah. And those were the two he had done. Stand by me right before this one.

[8:39] J.J.: Like stand by me. Princess Bride. When Harry Met Sally. And then that and then misery.

[8:46] Olaf: Yeah. I mean, he has such a great career. He's so likable. He's so fun. And he's got a great talent as a director.

[8:52] J.J.: Yeah. This is written by William Goldman, who is an absolute all star.

[9:00] Olaf: Yes. This guy. He never thought he was, except which is crazy because crazy. He was a well-respected, very famous screenwriter. He was a playwright. He was a novelist. He did screenwriting for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

[9:15] J.J.: Yeah. He did all the president's men. He did Marathon Man. I mean, it just goes on and on and on and on. And then he writes these amazing books as well, like The Princess Bride. It's just his resume is incredible.

[9:27] Olaf: I know it's a Hall of Famer for sure. And this he always said this book was his like treasure.

[9:35] J.J.: You can tell.

[9:44] Olaf: Yeah. And it was really one of these things where this movie went through so many different attempts at trying to get made. But nobody spent like 15 years trying to get it made. Nobody really knew how to do it was the big issue. And then Rob Reiner's like on a whim, just reached out to William Goldman just to see if he would even take an appointment.

[10:03] J.J.: Yeah. And that's what he finds out. William Goldman's been trying to make a movie for this for a long time, for a long time.

[10:08] Olaf: Then he sat down and watched This is Spinal Tap. He's like sold. This is happening.

[10:18] J.J.: And then it's crazy to think that this movie didn't do well. But when we're about to talk about the circumstances of why it makes a little bit more sense. But considering the cast that is in this, this is one of the most like all star cast you could get.

[10:30] Olaf: We have Carrie Owens, Mandy Patinkin, Robin Wright, Chris Sarandon, Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn.

[10:40] J.J.: Yes. Andre René Roussimoff or Andre the Giant, Fred Savage, Peter Falk, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane, Mel Smith, Peter Cook. I can name some more, but that is.

[10:57] Olaf: So that's the core of a cast. I mean, it's incredible.

[11:03] J.J.: And interestingly enough, they always ask the director, well, if you could have your dream cast, what would it be?

[11:07] Olaf: Oh, I wish I could get this person, this person, this person, this person.

[11:12] J.J.: And you find out that everybody that's in this movie, Rob Reiner was like, this is who I want. This is who should be this character, even if the actor didn't think so, didn't have the confidence in themselves. Rob Reiner was would go like you are the person. This is who you are, this character.

[11:31] Olaf: It's amazing. That is it's an all star hall of fame cast. Even Andre the Giant, like it's when you read this, the history of this, when it was trying to get made before Rob Reiner got his hands on it, it was written for him.

[11:41] J.J.: They want what?

[11:41] Olaf: Yeah, but the student there was a when a certain director was attached, they were going to try and get Arnold Schwarzenegger to play Fezzik would have been it.

[11:49] J.J.: But at that by the time, but everybody want a peanut.

[11:55] Olaf: Well, by the time they were able to finally get this movie greenlit, he was too expensive.

[11:59] J.J.: Oh, he was already a huge star.

[12:04] Olaf: William Goldman had said that he wasn't available, I think, because of wrestling. And then they went with Arnold. And then that all fell apart. Then Rob Reiner was casting. He was like, hey, what if we try Andre the Giant and William Wilson? That's who I wanted. And then they they asked him. And he was like, absolutely, boss. I want to do it.

[12:21] J.J.: Yeah, because he called everybody boss.

[12:26] Olaf: He called everybody boss. It's just to disarm them.

[12:36] J.J.: Good on all the giant stuff. And it turned out that he was fine with the script and he couldn't do the giant stuff. At that point, he was having such painful back issues that he was very limited in what he could do. So pretty much anytime you see him holding somebody or whatever, they're on wires. Very rarely was he holding anybody for any extensive period of time for real.

[12:57] Olaf: And a testament to the filmmakers too, because when you watch the fight between the man in black and the giant, it's really hard to notice. There's like one shot where if you look, you can see this mask that the body double is wearing to sort of look like Andre the Giant. It looks terrible. But other than that, you don't really tell. You can't really tell. And that was the thing too, is that there's very few cutaways or wide shots of things where these guys are doing a lot of their stuff. And we'll get into that a little bit in a minute.

[13:39] J.J.: But yeah, Andre the Giant, especially since they were shooting in these beautiful locations in England, but it was hard to get him to where he needed to go. So they gave him an ATV. He was riding around. He's like, "Hey, boss, the carry always. Why don't you take a spin?" And Cary Elwes for the longest time was like, "No, no, no, because I don't want to get hurt." Sure enough, the one time he's like, "Sure, I'll do it." He crashes it, essentially breaks his big toe, doesn't want to tell Rob Reiner about it because he's afraid he'll get fired. Obviously, word gets back. Rob's like, "So when were you going to tell me about the toe or whatever?" And he's like, "I'm sorry." He's like, "Look, man, your safety is more important. It's going to be fine. We'll shoot around it." And they did. And they did.

[14:28] Olaf: I mentioned that because there's a moment when Wesley is still the man in black and he saves Buttercup, but she doesn't know who he is. They're up on the hill and there's a moment where he has to rest. And so he sort of like slowly sits down and extends his left leg out. It's a quick shot, but it's noticeable because it's just so odd that anyone watching would be like, but even Rob Reiner was like, "That's a pretty elegant way of choosing to sit down." I mean, after knowing what had happened. Yeah. And then when they're running into the fire swamps, there's a wide shot of them sort of running. And yeah. And, you know, I just favoring his toe. I just rewatched that. And it's actually kind of hard to tell because they're also running on loose.

[15:16] J.J.: Right. Yeah, exactly. So they were falling all over the place. So that really helped cover it up. Yeah. Yeah. This movie. Yeah. So they shoot this movie over the course of a couple of months in '86. What I find interesting is we've mentioned at the top, it didn't do well. No. And it was because the studio didn't know how to market it so much so that even if you were to go on IMDB page right now and put in Princess Bride, the original poster is the image that shows up, which is a picture of a boy in a bed getting read a book by an old man in a rocking chair. It tells you nothing. And Rob Reiner was furious. Like the whole making of this movie was just an absolute joy for everyone. There were no issues.

There were no problems. Everyone was super happy to be there. Everybody had a good time. Everybody pretty much got along. Then comes the time to market this thing. And the studio just has no clue what to do. So they're just putting out this mysterious vanilla poster. And he actually called the studio and he was like, "Guys, this is awful. I don't want this to be another Wizard of Oz," because the same thing had kind of happened to Wizard of Oz at the time. And then the guy and then the head of the studio goes, "Why wouldn't you want it to be another Wizard of Oz in the long run?" Like in the long run, of course, Wizard of Oz. But you're right. When Wizard of Oz came out, it didn't do well either.

And then subsequently became a classic, much like the Princess Bride on another level. But if you've never seen this movie, I can't stress enough how wonderful it is. You need to. It'll capture your imagination. It'll transport you back to a time when maybe you were a kid. It's great.

[17:13] Olaf: It's interesting that you mentioned when you first started it, you were immediately sort of taken.

[17:18] J.J.: Yeah, I was just swept into it.

[17:19] Olaf: Which is interesting because and not to say that the first five minutes is slow because it isn't. But if you were to pick a slow part of this movie, it's the first five minutes. And that's not even slow.

[17:28] J.J.: I know. But it's because of the brilliance of putting Fred Savage and Peter Falk's characters in the middle of that.

[17:35] Olaf: Yes. Listening to it, it breaks it up. Imagine as a kid, you start watching this. You're immediately connecting with this kid. He's playing Nintendo or Atari and he's sick in bed. And then his grandfather's pinching his cheek and he's like, "A book." Right? Like most kids would say now. Yeah. He's not thrilled about this gift he just got. But then his grandfather starts reading. He's like, "All right, I'll give it a shot." And then we get into this and it's just this lovey-dovey stuff. As a kid, you're probably already like, "What is this?" But before you can say anything or really have those feelings, Fred Savage's character beats you to it.

[18:21] J.J.: Yeah. He's like, he's our voice. He's like our eyes and ears for sure. It's a kissing book.

[18:27] Olaf: And then you have Peter Falk there to like calm you down and be like, "No, no, no, no, there's more to it." So that really helps. And considering the fact that you're able to establish this immense, deep, true love in like five minutes is.

[18:43] J.J.: Less really, when you think about it, it's less than five minutes. I think their love theme is one of the pieces of music that's carries that is a through line of the movie that doesn't bother me. I mean, I'll admit, yes, the overall soundtrack leaves a lot to be desired.

[18:59] Olaf: Here's my problem with the soundtrack. OK, the whole thing is done on a synthesizer. Now, there's a couple of parts that really just sound like a nice, genuine guitar. And that is those are the parts where I'm like, I'm OK with that. But the rest is straight up synth. And I know it's the '80s, man. It was the late '80s. I know, but it just doesn't work. The movie would have been serviced so much better by a traditional orchestra. You could have played the same music just with an orchestra. Yeah. And it would have sounded better. It would have sounded more genuine and that would have been better.

[19:37] J.J.: Yeah. Immediately the farm boy goes off. We find out in a few words from Peter Falk that his ship gets captured and he might die. He might probably get killed. The Dread Pirate Roberts. Dread Pirate Roberts. No prisoners. Right. We smash cut to five years later. She's engaged. It's only because Prince Humperdinck can choose whoever he wants. Right. He chooses. She's not in love with him. Right. Yeah. And then she's like, "OK, going for a ride." Boom. I'm kidnapped. So Buttercup gets kidnapped and we get introduced to Wallace Shawn and Mandy Patinkin and Andre the Giant. And before you know it, they're on a ship. They're supposed to be some sort of war that's going to break out. We're just poor lost circus performers.

Wallace Shawn, who plays Vizzini, is so is genius. There is no other word. And it's unbelievable to think that from the moment he stepped onto the set, probably to the moment he got off the set. I hope it's not that long. I don't know. It just feels right to explain it to him. But whether he finally, like, calmed down or not, I don't know. But the fact that he felt like he was going to get replaced and this was of his own doing. It wasn't like anybody was like, "If you don't get this right, we're you're going to get fired for whatever reason." He was told that he wasn't the first choice. And like Danny DeVito was in consideration for this role. I think his agent told him that or something. His own agent.

Yeah, because it wasn't Ryan crew. Right. And so the whole time he's shooting and he's in his head about like, "I don't even know if I'm doing this right, if I'm like, I'm supposed to be Sicilian, but I'm this Jewish guy from New York." And Rob Reiner just kept it like, "Look, you are this is this is you. This is how he talks. And this is how he taught how you talk is how he talks." Yeah. And he was so good. But hey, maybe him being so anxious helped him with the character. I mean, he definitely has the Napoleon complex, the little man syndrome thing going. And it is done so beautifully because maybe in anybody else's hands, you don't like this character. You find him annoying. You find him inconceivable.

You just find him nauseating and like nails on a chalkboard. But for whatever reason, and this isn't due to time, because I've never felt like his character. I was never bothered by his character or anything he was doing. I was always amused. I love. Yeah. I loved his character from the beginning of his stuff to the very end of his stuff. Everything the exchange he has in the boat with Fezzik and Inigo, when he goes, "When I found you, you couldn't even afford brandy." And you just dig it into him. Both of them. Friendless, brainless, hopeless. Do you want to send me back? Do you want me to send you back where I found you? Unemployed in Greenland. He's he's a genius in this movie. And it's and his battle of wits is and he's likable. So he's like, "Oh, yeah, this movie."

[22:49] J.J.: Yeah. The three of them as a unit are only really in one scene together or no, like they're like in one long scene, in my opinion, the one on the ship that sort of carries over to the top of the mountain. And that's the top of the cliffs of insanity. Yeah. And it's crazy because their chemistry together, the three of them is so solid that you think that they'd been doing this for a long time or that they're in more of the movie. Like, yeah, you kind of like it's less is more sort of thing in this particular case, because I wouldn't have minded more of them. Yeah. But the fact that we just get this sort of the exchange in the boat, which is very minor.

[23:17] Olaf: Yeah. Move the thing. Move the other thing.

[23:24] J.J.: And then when they get to the cliffs of insanity, which are the cliffs of Moher in Ireland, which are beautiful on a side note, going back to what you had said about Andre the Giant, who is having like major back issues, he's not really carrying any of them on his back.

[23:43] Olaf: Yeah. He's got a fake dummy of Robin Wright.

[23:50] J.J.: Well, they're actually sitting on like bicycle seats. She and Mandy Patinkin and they're like on this lift. And Wallace Shawn, who plays Vizzini, his face and totally scared of heights, like terrified of heights. Yes. So much so that like before they were shooting, he was he was like, "Rob, in the script, it says we're going to be doing all this stuff. We're going to he's going to be lifting. Are we doing this? What's going on?" Like he was terrified and he's like, "You're going to be fine. We're not we're going to do it in the studio or whatever." And he goes, "We were almost like, oh, we're going to do it in the studio. We were only like 30 feet up on a rig and I was still terrified." Yeah. But like Andre, like really took care of him, really made it sort of comforted him and made him feel good. But that in the meantime, Wallace Shawn's character is like insulting him in his face.

[24:34] J.J.: Love it. That whole scene. You were supposed to be this great legendary thing and yet he gains. I'm just going to have to find myself a new guy. I do not accept excuses. I'm just going to have to find myself a new job. He's carrying only himself. I'm carrying three people.

[24:49] Olaf: Oh, man. Oh, again, it's one of those things where you wish there was more of them because, yeah, they are so good. They get to the top of the cliff and then they separate. It's like, yeah, pretty much if he falls fine, if not the sword, I think I'll do him left handed. You know what kind of a hurry we're in. If I don't know.

[25:12] J.J.: Welcome back to the show! Today, we're diving into one of our all-time favorites, The Princess Bride, in honor of the late, great Rob Reiner.

[25:42] Olaf: Absolutely! It's such a classic. I mean, who doesn't love a good fairy tale with a twist?

[26:12] J.J.: Right? And the humor in this film is just timeless. I still find myself quoting it all the time.

[26:42] Olaf: Same here! The characters are so memorable. I mean, Inigo Montoya is iconic.

[26:45] J.J.: "Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die." Such a powerful line!

[26:48] Olaf: And the way Mandy Patinkin delivers it is just perfect. You really feel his pain.

[26:51] J.J.: Definitely! And then there's Westley, played by Cary Elwes. His charm is undeniable.

[26:54] Olaf: Oh, for sure! He brings a lot of heart to the role. Plus, the chemistry between him and Robin Wright is fantastic.

[26:57] J.J.: Speaking of Robin Wright, Buttercup is such a strong character. She really drives the story forward.

[27:00] Olaf: Agreed! And let's not forget about the unforgettable Vizzini, played by Wallace Shawn. "Inconceivable!" is another line that has become part of pop culture.

[27:03] J.J.: It's amazing how many quotes from this movie have stood the test of time.

[27:06] Olaf: And the action scenes! The sword fights are choreographed so well.

[27:09] J.J.: Absolutely! The duel between Inigo and Westley is a highlight for sure.

[27:10] Olaf: Plus, the Fire Swamp scene is just so intense. The R.O.U.S.s are terrifying!

[27:13] J.J.: Right? Rodents of Unusual Size! I remember being scared of them as a kid.

[27:16] Olaf: Same here! But it also adds to the charm of the film. It's a perfect blend of adventure, romance, and comedy.

[27:19] J.J.: And the soundtrack! Mark Knopfler did an incredible job with the score.

[27:22] Olaf: It really enhances the emotional moments throughout the film.

[27:25] J.J.: So, what do you think makes The Princess Bride stand out compared to other fairy tale adaptations?

[27:28] Olaf: I think it's the unique blend of humor and heart. It doesn't take itself too seriously, yet it still delivers powerful messages about love and friendship.

[27:31] J.J.: Well said! And the meta-narrative with the grandfather reading the story to his grandson adds another layer.

[27:34] Olaf: Exactly! It makes it feel like a story within a story, which is really clever.

[27:37] J.J.: Plus, the film's pacing is spot on. It never feels slow, and there's always something happening.

[27:40] Olaf: True! It keeps you engaged from start to finish.

[27:43] J.J.: So, if you had to pick your favorite scene, what would it be?

[27:46] Olaf: Oh man, that's tough! But I think I’d have to go with the "Battle of Wits" scene. It's so clever and funny.

[27:49] J.J.: Great choice! The way Vizzini tries to outsmart Westley is just brilliant.

[27:52] Olaf: And the twist at the end is just perfect! You never see it coming.

[27:55] J.J.: Exactly! It’s a great example of how the film keeps you on your toes.

[27:58] Olaf: And it’s moments like that that make The Princess Bride such a beloved classic.

[28:01] J.J.: Absolutely! It’s a film that appeals to all ages, which is a rare feat.

[28:04] Olaf: For sure! It’s one of those movies you can watch over and over again.

[28:07] J.J.: And each time, you discover something new or appreciate it in a different way.

[28:10] Olaf: Definitely! So, what do you think Rob Reiner's legacy will be in the film industry?

[28:13] J.J.: I think he’ll always be remembered for his ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling.

[28:16] Olaf: Agreed! His films have a unique charm that resonates with audiences.

[28:19] J.J.: And The Princess Bride is a perfect example of that. It’s a timeless classic that will be cherished for generations.

[28:22] Olaf: Absolutely! So, let’s dive deeper into some of our favorite moments from the film.

[28:25] J.J.: Sounds good! Let’s start with the opening scene. The way it sets the tone is just perfect.

[28:28] Olaf: Yes! The grandfather reading to his grandson immediately draws you in.

[28:32] J.J.: And the animation during the opening credits is so charming.

[28:35] Olaf: It really captures the fairy tale essence of the story.

[28:38] J.J.: Plus, the way the characters are introduced is so clever. You get a sense of who they are right away.

[28:41] Olaf: Exactly! It’s a great way to establish the world before diving into the adventure.

[28:44] J.J.: And the chemistry between the characters is evident from the start.

[28:47] Olaf: For sure! You can tell there’s a deep connection between Westley and Buttercup.

[28:50] J.J.: And that sets the stage for the entire film. Their love story is at the heart of it all.

[28:53] Olaf: Absolutely! It’s a classic tale of true love overcoming obstacles.

[28:56] J.J.: And the humor sprinkled throughout keeps it light and enjoyable.

[28:59] Olaf: Yes! It balances the romance perfectly.

[29:02] J.J.: So, what do you think about the character development throughout the film?

[29:05] Olaf: I think it’s fantastic! Each character has their own arc, and you really see them grow.

[29:08] J.J.: Definitely! Inigo’s journey for revenge is particularly compelling.

[29:11] Olaf: And his friendship with Westley adds depth to his character.

[29:14] J.J.: Plus, the way he ultimately finds closure is really satisfying.

[29:17] Olaf: Exactly! It’s a great payoff for his character.

[29:20] J.J.: And then there’s Fezzik, played by Andre the Giant. He’s such a lovable character.

[29:23] Olaf: Yes! His gentle giant persona is so endearing.

[29:26] J.J.: And the way he supports Inigo and Westley shows the importance of friendship.

[29:29] Olaf: Absolutely! It’s a great message about loyalty and camaraderie.

[29:32] J.J.: So, let’s talk about the ending. What are your thoughts on how it wraps up?

[29:35] Olaf: I think it’s perfect! It ties everything together nicely and leaves you with a sense of hope.

[29:38] J.J.: Agreed! The final kiss between Westley and Buttercup is so satisfying.

[29:41] Olaf: And the way it ends with the grandfather and grandson is just heartwarming.

[29:44] J.J.: It brings the whole story full circle, which is a nice touch.

[29:47] Olaf: Definitely! It’s a film that leaves you feeling good.

[29:50] J.J.: So, what do you think the legacy of The Princess Bride will be in the future?

[29:54] Olaf: I think it will continue to be a beloved classic for years to come.

[29:57] J.J.: Absolutely! It has a timeless quality that resonates with audiences of all ages.

[37:49] J.J.: Welcome back to another episode of Back to the Movie Theater! Today, we’re diving into a classic that we all know and love, The Princess Bride.

[38:19] Olaf: Absolutely! It’s such a fantastic film, filled with adventure, romance, and some of the best one-liners in cinema history.

[38:49] J.J.: Right? I mean, who can forget the iconic “As you wish”? It’s a phrase that carries so much meaning throughout the film.

[39:19] Olaf: And let’s not overlook the memorable characters! From Westley to Buttercup, Inigo Montoya to Vizzini, they all bring something unique to the story.

[39:49] J.J.: Exactly! And the way they navigate through the Fire Swamp and climb the Cliffs of Insanity is just brilliant storytelling.

[40:19] Olaf: Plus, the humor! It’s a perfect blend of comedy and adventure. I love how it doesn’t take itself too seriously.

[40:49] J.J.: And the performances are top-notch. Cary Elwes and Robin Wright have such great chemistry on screen.

[41:19] Olaf: Not to mention Mandy Patinkin as Inigo Montoya. His “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya” line is legendary!

[41:26] J.J.: It really is. And the sword fighting scenes are just incredible. They’re choreographed so well.

[41:33] Olaf: Definitely! It’s a film that has something for everyone, whether you’re into romance, action, or comedy.

[41:40] J.J.: And it’s a movie that stands the test of time. I mean, it came out in 1987, and it’s still beloved today.

[41:45] Olaf: It’s a testament to how well it was made. The writing, the direction, everything just clicks.

[42:01] J.J.: Speaking of direction, Rob Reiner did an amazing job bringing this story to life. It’s such a shame we lost him.

[42:15] Olaf: Absolutely. His contributions to film are immense, and this movie is a perfect example of his talent.

[42:45] J.J.: So, let’s jump into some of our favorite moments from The Princess Bride. What stands out to you the most?

[43:15] Olaf: For me, it’s got to be the battle of wits between Vizzini and Westley. It’s so clever and funny!

[43:45] J.J.: That’s a classic scene! I also love the moment when Inigo finally confronts Count Rugen. It’s so satisfying.

[44:15] Olaf: Yes! And the way he delivers his line about revenge is just so powerful.

[44:45] J.J.: It really encapsulates his character’s journey throughout the film.

[45:15] Olaf: And let’s not forget the soundtrack! The music really enhances the emotional moments.

[45:45] J.J.: Agreed! It adds so much to the overall experience of the film.

[46:15] Olaf: So, what do you think makes The Princess Bride such a timeless classic?

[46:45] J.J.: I think it’s the perfect mix of adventure, romance, and humor. It appeals to all ages.

[47:15] Olaf: Plus, the quotable lines make it a movie that people love to share and reference.

[47:29] J.J.: Exactly! It’s a film that brings people together, and that’s what makes it special.

[47:35] Olaf: Well, I think we’ve covered a lot of ground here. Any final thoughts before we wrap up?

[47:40] J.J.: Just that if you haven’t seen The Princess Bride yet, you need to! It’s a must-watch for any movie lover.

[48:10] Olaf: Absolutely! Thanks for joining us today as we revisited this classic.

[48:40] J.J.: Be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media for more movie discussions!

[49:10] Olaf: Until next time, keep enjoying the movies!

[49:40] J.J.: See you at the theater!

[50:25] J.J.: Welcome back to the show! We're diving into one of our favorites today, The Princess Bride!

[50:55] Olaf: Absolutely! It's such a classic, and there's so much to unpack.

[51:25] J.J.: Right? From the memorable quotes to the incredible characters, it’s hard not to love this film.

[51:55] Olaf: And let’s not forget the iconic scenes, like the Fire Swamp and the Cliffs of Insanity!

[51:57] J.J.: Exactly! And the performances are just top-notch.

[51:59] Olaf: I mean, who could forget the chemistry between Buttercup and Westley?

[52:01] J.J.: It’s timeless! And the humor is just perfect.

[52:03] Olaf: Speaking of humor, the dialogue is so witty and clever.

[52:05] J.J.: Yes! It’s one of those films that you can quote endlessly.

[52:07] Olaf: And it never gets old.

[52:09] J.J.: Agreed! So, let’s jump into the plot.

[52:11] Olaf: Sure! We start with Buttercup and Westley, and their love story is just beautiful.

[52:13] J.J.: But then, of course, there’s the whole kidnapping plot that throws everything into chaos.

[52:15] Olaf: Right! And that’s where we meet the infamous Vizzini.

[52:17] J.J.: And his “inconceivable” line is just legendary!

[52:19] Olaf: It really is! And then we have the giant, Fezzik, played by Andre the Giant.

[52:21] J.J.: He brings such a lovable quality to the character.

[52:23] Olaf: And let’s not forget Inigo Montoya and his quest for revenge.

[52:25] J.J.: His story arc is so compelling, especially with that iconic line.

[52:27] Olaf: “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”

[52:29] J.J.: Classic! And the duel between him and Count Rugen is just epic.

[52:31] Olaf: Absolutely! The choreography is fantastic.

[52:33] J.J.: And it’s so well-paced throughout the film.

[52:35] Olaf: I love how it balances action, romance, and comedy.

[52:37] J.J.: It really does!

[52:39] Olaf: And the ending is so satisfying.

[52:41] J.J.: Yes! It wraps everything up perfectly.

[52:43] Olaf: And it leaves you wanting more, just like Fred Savage at the end.

[52:45] J.J.: “Can you come back tomorrow and do it to me again?”

[52:47] Olaf: That’s how I feel about this movie every time I watch it!

[52:49] J.J.: Same here! It’s just so rewatchable.

[52:51] Olaf: And the nostalgia factor is off the charts.

[52:53] J.J.: For sure! It’s a film that resonates with so many people.

[52:55] Olaf: And it’s a testament to Rob Reiner’s direction.

[52:57] J.J.: Absolutely! He brought the story to life in such a unique way.

[52:59] Olaf: And the cast was just perfect for their roles.

[53:01] J.J.: Couldn’t agree more.

[53:03] Olaf: So, what’s your favorite scene?

[53:05] J.J.: I’d have to say the duel between Inigo and Rugen.

[53:07] Olaf: That’s a great choice!

[53:09] J.J.: What about you?

[53:11] Olaf: I love the Fire Swamp scene. It’s so intense!

[53:13] J.J.: And the R.O.U.S.s are just terrifying!

[53:15] Olaf: They really are!

[53:17] J.J.: It adds such a great element of danger.

[53:19] Olaf: Plus, the humor in that scene is just perfect.

[53:21] J.J.: Yes! It balances the tension with comedy so well.

[53:23] Olaf: And that’s what makes this film so special.

[53:25] J.J.: It’s a true classic that stands the test of time.

[53:27] Olaf: Definitely!

[53:29] J.J.: If you haven’t seen it, you need to check it out.

[53:31] Olaf: For sure!

[53:33] J.J.: And if you have seen it, watch it again!

[53:35] Olaf: You won’t regret it!

[53:37] J.J.: Until next time, to be continued!

[53:39] Olaf: Buy the dimes!

[53:41] J.J.: Follow us on Instagram and TikTok at BackToTheMovieTheatre.

[53:43] Olaf: And find us on YouTube at BackToTheMovieTheatre with J.J. and Olaf.