Welcome to the 4th episode of the 15th season of the Retroist Podcast. Today’s episode is all about a wonderful and underrated fantasy film from 1988, Willow.
The episode begins with a story about bargain toy collecting. Owning a lot of toys was a dream every kid had, but is often abandoned once we reach adulthood. Not all of us, though. Especially when the toys are on clearance.
Then I move onto the film itself. I start with its development from concept to story to screenplay. Then I move onto the film itself discussing its production, plot, characters, cast, music and more. Finally, I end, discussing what happened to Willow once it hit theaters and where it is going in the future.
This was not an episode I had scheduled, but I have been thinking a lot about Willow lately and thought I would finally release it. It is a story with a lot of potential and the film, despite some technical low points, is quite charming.
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Production Notes
This is episode 277 of the Retroist Podcast.
Music on the show is, as always, by Peachy.
4th episode of the new season!
The first episode I am releasing during the new season that was not scheduled. I do that.
A new song in this show by Peachy! (again) Check it out during the credits.
The opening story had some more details about what I did with the toys, but I shortened it to focus on just the idea of buying them.
Had a lot more about Lucas and Howard. They have given lots of interviews, but it was a bit cumbersome. Probably reduced the length by 3-4 minutes.
Plot summary was a good amount longer on the first take, as was the cast listing. Edited a lot out.
Removed deeper discussion of the video games and the board game.
Used all the audio I wanted to use.
I have been talking a lot about James Horner lately.
This is the 3rd fantasy-themed episode I have released in a row. I am enjoying it and would love to keep it rolling, but don’t have anything on deck.
I had looked up some plot leaks for Willow and mentioned them when I originally recorded them. Not verified and spoiler, so removed them. Not sure what I was thinking.
Had a little tirade against the Razzies that I cut.
I cut out a part about the Willow RPG Sourcebook. I picked up years after Willow and never go to play. I cut it out mostly because in every attempt to talk about it, I tripped over my own words and couldn’t edit it into shape. I tried to re-record after the fact, but the audio did not match up well.
Thanks for listening to the show and I hope you have a great weekend.
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