Hit Rewind Podcast Network

Hit Rewind- Snake-eyes, Enemy of the State, A Simple Plan, Out of Sight & Dark City

Join Michael and John on an enthralling episode of Hit Rewind, as they delve into the rich cinematic landscape of 1998. With an overwhelming number of films to explore, they focus on those that captivate with their depth and storytelling, offering a refreshing break from CGI-laden blockbusters.

The episode kicks off with a discussion on "Snake Eyes," a Hitchcockian thriller by Brian De Palma, featuring a riveting performance by Nicolas Cage. The conversation then shifts to "Enemy of the State," a high-octane surveillance thriller that eerily mirrors real-world events.

Next, the duo examines "A Simple Plan," a gripping tale of greed and moral decay helmed by Sam Raimi, showcasing the complexities of human relationships. They then revel in the charm of "Out of Sight," a stylish crime caper with sizzling chemistry between George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez.

Finally, they explore "Dark City," a visually stunning and thought-provoking sci-fi noir by Alex Proyas, that questions the very nature of reality and identity.

Tune in to hear their insights and reflections on these unforgettable films from 1998.

Hit Rewind: DIrty Work, Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas, The Truman Show, Small Soldiers & There's something about Mary.

Welcome to another episode of Hit Rewind! As we approach the end of the 1998 season, hosts Michael and Jacob dive into a diverse selection of films that defined the era. Join them as they discuss the polarizing comedy "Dirty Work," featuring the unique comedic style of Norm MacDonald, and the trippy, terrifying journey of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" with Johnny Depp and Benicio Del Toro.

Discover the thought-provoking world of "The Truman Show," where Jim Carrey takes on a more serious role under the direction of Peter Weir. The duo also revisits Joe Dante's action-packed "Small Soldiers," exploring its blend of practical effects and early CGI technology.

Get ready to laugh with the Farrelly Brothers' comedy hit "There's Something About Mary," starring Ben Stiller and Cameron Diaz, as Michael and Jacob reminisce about its unforgettable moments and the cultural impact it had on audiences. Don't miss out on this nostalgic journey through some of 1998's most memorable films!

Hit Rewind: You've Got Mail, Saving Private Ryan, Rounders, Rush Hour & Mask of Zorro

Join hosts Michael and Jacob in this episode of "Hit Rewind" as they conclude their exploration of the films from 1998. The duo kicks off the discussion with the beloved romantic comedy "You've Got Mail," revisiting the charming chemistry of Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. They reminisce about the film's nostalgic portrayal of early internet romance and its delightful supporting cast.

Next, they delve into the gripping war epic "Saving Private Ryan." The hosts discuss the film's groundbreaking cinematography and powerful performances, pondering how it didn't secure the Best Picture win. They also reflect on the film's impact on the portrayal of war in cinema and its influence on subsequent projects like "Band of Brothers."

The conversation takes a turn to the world of high-stakes poker with "Rounders," starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton. The hosts explore the film's depiction of the underground poker scene and its enduring appeal among enthusiasts.

In a shift to action-comedy, Michael and Jacob discuss "Rush Hour," featuring the dynamic duo of Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. While Michael shares his mixed feelings about the franchise, they both acknowledge the film's entertaining chemistry and unique plot elements.

Finally, the episode concludes with a look at "The Mask of Zorro," a swashbuckling adventure that set a new standard for action choreography. The hosts praise the film's engaging story, captivating performances, and its influence on the genre.

Tune in to this episode as Michael and Jacob wrap up their journey through 1998 and prepare for their next season, diving into the films of 1999.

Hit Rewind: Hard Rain, Half Baked, The Wedding Singer, Big Lebowski & Sour Grapes

Welcome to another episode of Hit Rewind, where Michael and Jacob dive into the cinematic landscape of 1998. The duo kicks off the discussion with "Hard Rain," an action-packed heist movie set during a massive flood, featuring Christian Slater, Morgan Freeman, and a series of spectacular practical effects. Filmed in a unique setting, the film's production anecdotes and ultimate box office flop provide a fascinating backdrop for this underappreciated gem.

Next up, the hosts explore the stoner comedy "Half Baked," starring Dave Chappelle. They reminisce about the film's cult status, hilarious cameos, and its impact on the genre. The conversation highlights the comedic performances and the film's enduring appeal, despite its initial mixed reception.

The discussion takes a romantic turn with "The Wedding Singer," a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s with Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. Michael and Jacob discuss the film's charm, its standout soundtrack, and the undeniable chemistry between its leads that contributed to its success.

The episode also covers the cult classic "The Big Lebowski" by the Coen Brothers. The hosts delve into the film's quirky characters, unique narrative style, and its rise to cult status despite an initial lukewarm reception. They appreciate the film's humor, memorable lines, and the iconic performances by Jeff Bridges and John Goodman.

Finally, the episode wraps up with "Sour Grapes," a lesser-known comedy by Larry David. They discuss the film's satirical take on greed and misfortune, drawing parallels to "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." Despite its obscurity, the hosts find value in its humor and dark comedy.

Join Michael and Jacob as they rewind the clock to 1998, revisiting these films and sharing their insights and memories. Whether it's action, comedy, romance, or cult classics, this episode has something for every movie enthusiast.

Perfect Concert Playlist: Sheryl Crow, Tom Petty & John Mellencamp

Join us for another exciting episode of Hit Rewind, where we create the ultimate concert playlist featuring the legendary artists Sheryl Crow, Tom Petty, and John Mellencamp. Dive into the musical journey as we explore the hits and hidden gems from these iconic musicians, perfect for an unforgettable concert experience.

We kick off the show with Sheryl Crow's vibrant and soulful tracks, blending her California vibes with heartfelt ballads. Discover how her music complements the classic sounds of Tom Petty and John Mellencamp.

Next, we delve into the heartland rock of John Mellencamp, reflecting on his Indiana roots and timeless tunes that have captured the essence of American life and resilience.

Finally, we conclude with the unforgettable hits of Tom Petty, whose unique blend of rock, folk, and blues has left a lasting impact on generations of fans. From iconic classics to deep cuts, this playlist celebrates the enduring legacy of these three musical powerhouses.

Tune in and let us know your favorite tracks from this dream lineup!

We Got The Beat: Lisa Frankenstein & Jennifer's Body

Join hosts Michael and Mindy for a Halloween special episode as they dive into a double feature of horror comedies penned by Diablo Cody. This episode explores the intriguing blend of humor and horror in "Lisa Frankenstein" and "Jennifer's Body".

First up is "Lisa Frankenstein", a film that combines romance and the undead, directed by Zelda Williams in her debut. With standout performances from Catherine Newton and Cole Sprouse, the movie is praised for its humor, heart, and 80s aesthetic. The hosts discuss its potential as a future cult classic and how it defies typical horror comedy conventions.

Next, the duo revisits "Jennifer's Body", a film that gained cult status over the years. Despite its initial mixed reception, Michael and Mindy delve into its themes, performances, and why it didn't achieve the expected breakout success. They also highlight Adam Brody's unexpected role and the film's visual appeal under the direction of Karyn Kusama.

As they wrap up the episode, Michael and Mindy reflect on the challenges and successes of balancing horror with comedy, and why some films find their audience long after their initial release. Tune in for a lively discussion filled with insights and Halloween spirit!

Perfect Concert Playlist: Nine Inch Nails, Filter & Stabbing Westward

Join Michael and John on this episode of "Perfect Concert Playlist," a special spinoff of "Hit Rewind," as they dive into the industrial music scene of the 90s. This episode explores the evolution and influence of popular culture industrial bands, examining their mainstream appeal and unique sound.

Michael and John curate their dream concert setlists for iconic bands like Filter, Stabbing Westward, and Nine Inch Nails. They discuss the genre's boundaries and the way these bands have shaped American pop culture, blending electronic elements with rock to create a distinct industrial sound.

From Filter's live performances and Stabbing Westward's new releases to Nine Inch Nails' legendary hits, this episode offers a deep dive into the music that defined an era. Whether you're a hardcore fan or new to the genre, this playlist is sure to have you rocking out to some unforgettable tunes.

As the hosts prepare for a brief hiatus, they reflect on the show's journey and express gratitude to their loyal listeners. Tune in for this exciting episode and get ready to hit rewind on some of the best industrial tracks of the 90s!

Hit Rewind: Our Favorite Albums of 1998

Join hosts Michael and John on a nostalgic journey as they dive into the top albums of 1998. In this episode, they share their personal favorites, explore lesser-known gems, and discuss the diverse musical landscape of the late 90s. From the unique sounds of Mono's "Formica Blues" to the explosive energy of The Urge's "Master of Styles," they cover a wide range of genres and styles that defined the year.

Michael and John also reflect on the challenges of narrowing down their list to just 10 albums, as they revisit iconic releases from artists like Pearl Jam, Beastie Boys, and Jay-Z. Along the way, they explore the evolving sounds of hip-hop, alternative rock, and metal, while also highlighting some unexpected surprises and personal connections to the music.

Tune in for a lively discussion filled with musical insights, fond memories, and a celebration of the albums that made 1998 a standout year in music. Whether you're a fan of trip-hop, ska, or classic rock, this episode has something for everyone as they hit rewind and take a trip back to the sounds of the late 90s.

1998 in Comics: Marvel Knights, DC Shake-Ups, and Indie Gems

Welcome to Hit Rewind, where we dive into the comic book scene of 1998. Join hosts Michael Johns and his co-host as they explore a pivotal year for comics, marked by Marvel's bold moves, DC's seismic storylines, and notable indie releases.

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into Marvel's 1998, featuring the launch of Marvel Knights, a new imprint aimed at revitalizing lesser-known characters. The hosts discuss standout stories like Kevin Smith's "Guardian Devil" and the critically acclaimed "Black Panther" run by Christopher Priest. They also humorously dissect the infamous "Punisher as a hitman for heaven" storyline.

Shifting to DC, the hosts cover the groundbreaking "No Man's Land" storyline that reshaped Gotham City and its heroes. They also touch on the Elseworlds tale "JLA: The Nail" and the introduction of Young Justice, a fresh take on the Titans.

Indie comics and other highlights include the debut of Frank Miller's "300" from Dark Horse, the rise of webcomics with "Penny Arcade," and the influential "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" series. The episode wraps up with a nod to the critically acclaimed "Road to Perdition" graphic novel.

Tune in for a lively discussion full of insights and humor as the hosts reminisce about a transformative year in comics.

Hit Rewind: Video Games of 1998

Welcome to Hit Rewind, your go-to podcast for exploring the captivating world of 1998 video games. Join hosts Michael and John as they dive into the gaming landscape of the year, discussing both legacy and new titles that left their mark.

In this episode, discover how 1998 was a pivotal year in gaming history with milestones such as the rebranding of the ESRB's K-A rating to E for Everyone and the launch of the Game Boy Color. Explore the discontinuation of the Sega Saturn and the impact of arcade hits like Marvel vs. Capcom.

Listen as the hosts analyze iconic PC games including Baldur's Gate, StarCraft, and Half-Life, along with console classics like Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Pokémon Red and Blue. Witness the rise of interactive gaming with Dance Dance Revolution and the entrance of Bruce Willis in the gaming world with Apocalypse.

Join the conversation on mergers and acquisitions that reshaped the industry, including Crystal Dynamics' integration into Eidos and the partnership between Square and EA. This episode is packed with insights, nostalgia, and a dash of humor as we take you on a journey back to 1998.