Summary of "How Did This Get Made?" Podcast Episode: Bloodsport LIVE w/ Nicole Byer (HDTGM Matinee)

Episode Information:

• Title: Bloodsport LIVE w/ Nicole Byer (HDTGM Matinee)
• Hosts: Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, Jason Mantzoukas
• Guest: Nicole Byer
• Release Date: June 10, 2025

Introduction

In this live episode of "How Did This Get Made?", the trio of comedians—Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas—are joined by the hilarious Nicole Byer to dissect the cult classic martial arts film "Bloodsport" starring Jean-Claude Van Damme. The episode dives deep into the film's plot, characters, and memorable (often questionable) moments, all while delivering the hosts' signature comedic flair.

Background on "Bloodsport"

Paul Scheer sets the stage by questioning the screenplay credits, highlighting the incongruity of Sheldon Ledich penning a story about a "karate guy" seeking deadly competition:

"[15:21] Paul Scheer: ... the one thing I will say, this is the third time we have visited a Jean Claude Van Damme film..."

June Diane Raphael humorously adds to the skepticism about the film's authenticity:

"[06:07] June Diane Raphael: When that happened at the end of the movie and the thing came up and said it was based on a real life story, I came. I was like, what?"

The hosts express doubt about the veracity of the film's claim to be based on true events, comparing it to other implausible movie claims.

Jean-Claude Van Damme's Role and Training

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Jean-Claude Van Damme's character, Frank Dukes, and his training regimen under a character named Frank Dukes, portrayed by another actor (likely a nod to reality):

"[07:46] Paul Scheer: ... Frank Dukes ... he did an amazing full rotation kick and then stared him down."

Nicole Byer praises Van Damme's physique and presence:

"[04:32] Nicole Byer: Also, he was so fuckable. He was so sexy."

June Diane Raphael lauds the authenticity of Van Damme's physical performance:

"[36:13] June Diane Raphael: ... all the fighters looked legitimately like they were doing all the fighting and it looked cool."

Quotable Insight:

"[06:07] Paul Scheer: This man, his name is obviously Frank Dukes... he was like, you're not ready to be in a fictionalized version of my life."

This highlights the hosts' appreciation for the dedication to portraying martial arts authentically, albeit humorously critiquing its execution.

Character Analysis: Ray Jackson and Chun Li

Ray Jackson, portrayed by Cast Member, is discussed as a somewhat inconsistent character:

"[30:14] Paul Scheer: Jackson. I killed him. I killed him."

The hosts question his fighting techniques and narrative significance, poking fun at his seemingly lackluster martial skills compared to Chun Li, the film's antagonist:

"[32:13] Paul Scheer: ... someone got a little bit of... boxing isn't worse than boxing."

Chun Li is depicted as an almost invincible foe, with June Diane Raphael describing him as:

"[32:43] June Diane Raphael: ... the villain of the movie is just the guy that always wins, named Chun Li."

The interplay between Ray Jackson's sporadic competence and Chun Li's dominance serves as a central critique point, blending humor with analysis.

Memorable Scenes and Comedic Highlights

Several iconic scenes are dissected with a comedic twist:

1. Splits Extravaganza: The hosts repeatedly joke about Van Damme's ability to perform splits, particularly Nicole Byer's admiration:

   "[09:19] Nicole Byer: All of the splits. There were so many splits."

2. Training Montage: The intense (and often absurd) training sequences are mocked for their over-the-top portrayal of martial arts discipline:

   "[20:20] June Diane Raphael: Oh, God. This is the first time hearing of a sound department."

3. Final Fight: The culmination of the film's action is humorously critiqued for its lack of logical consistency and believability:

   "[58:38] Nicole Byer: It was pretty sad when Ray started the chant for his own name and it didn't catch on and then literally had his head stomped."

Notable Quote:

"[32:20] Paul Scheer: But that's boxing. That really isn't worse than boxing."
(32:20)

This joke underscores the hosts' perspective on the film's portrayal of violence.

Audience Interaction and Q&A

The live format allows for audience participation, where listeners submit questions and creative titles for "Bloodsport." This segment adds an interactive layer, showcasing the hosts' improvisational skills and playful banter.

Example Interaction:

• Audience Member Camilla:

  Title: Bunsport
  (51:25)

• Nicole Byer:

  "My title is Bunsport. Ooh, great title."
  (51:39)

The creative process of renaming the film on the spot emphasizes the comedic approach the hosts take towards critiquing the movie.

Critical Analysis and Humor

The hosts blend genuine critique with irreverent humor, often mocking the film's plot holes, character development, and production choices.

Paul Scheer highlights inconsistencies in character motivations and plot progression:

"[38:05] Paul Scheer: Like, we don't entirely know why they want him back, they don't say anything."

June Diane Raphael points out the film's failure to develop its romantic subplot convincingly:

"[41:03] June Diane Raphael: I thought I was just gonna say... "

Nicole Byer adds her perspective on the movie's portrayal of violence and character relationships:

"[44:35] Paul Scheer: Watching those buns."
"[54:28] Paul Scheer: ...How did this get made exclusive?"
"[70:37] Paul Scheer: That one takes five stars."

These segments illustrate the hosts' ability to navigate between sincere analysis and comedic critique seamlessly.

Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts reflect on the enduring legacy of "Bloodsport," acknowledging its place in martial arts cinema while continuing to poke fun at its various shortcomings. They encourage listeners to share their own perspectives and highlight the community aspect of the podcast.

Final Remarks by Paul Scheer:

"[75:14] Paul Scheer: What we have to talk about was very, very racist, actually. Yeah, you know, two. Two things here..."
(60:46)

This closing reinforces the hosts' commitment to honest discussions, regardless of the film's flaws, all delivered with their trademark humor.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Paul Scheer (15:21):

  "This is the third time we have visited a Jean Claude Van Damme film..."

• June Diane Raphael (06:07):

  "When that happened at the end of the movie and the thing came up and said it was based on a real life story, I came. I was like, what?"

• Nicole Byer (04:32):

  "He was so fuckable. He was so sexy."

• Paul Scheer (32:20):

  "But that's boxing. That really isn't worse than boxing."

• June Diane Raphael (41:03):

  "I thought I was just gonna say..."

• Paul Scheer (75:14):

  "What we have to talk about was very, very racist, actually."

Final Thoughts:

This episode of "How Did This Get Made?" offers a thorough and entertaining breakdown of "Bloodsport," blending critical analysis with humor. The addition of Nicole Byer amplifies the comedic elements, making the discussion both insightful and highly enjoyable for listeners, whether they are fans of the film or encountering it for the first time.