How Did This Get Made? - Episode: Double Trouble LIVE! w/ Rory Scovel & Jessica St. Clair

Release Date: May 2, 2025

Introduction

In this lively episode of How Did This Get Made?, hosts Paul Scheer, Jason Mantzoukas, and Jessica St. Clair dive deep into the 1992 B-movie Double Trouble. Joined by special guest Rory Scovel, the panel dissects every facet of this cult classic, celebrating its unabashed quirks and unintentional hilarity.

Guest Introductions

• Rory Scovel: A seasoned comedian known for his sharp wit and engaging performances, Rory brings fresh perspectives to the discussion.
• Jessica St. Clair: Renowned for her roles in Grace and Frankie and Movie Night, Jessica adds her comedic flair and insightful commentary.

Overview of Double Trouble

Double Trouble centers around the Barbarian Brothers, Peter and David Paul, fraternal twins navigating a convoluted plot involving a jewelry smuggling ring. The film juxtaposes their muscular physiques with a storyline riddled with missteps and baffling decisions.

Notable Quote:

• Paul Scheer [01:39]: "In the immortal words of the late great Shah of Iran, no way. Yes way. We saw Double Trouble."

In-Depth Analysis

1. Direction and Acting

   • John B. From Pee Wee's Playhouse directed the film, infusing it with unconventional stylistic choices that border on cartoonish logic.
   • The acting, particularly by the Barbarian Brothers, oscillates between earnest attempts and over-the-top performances, leading to moments that are unintentionally comedic.

   Notable Quote:

   • Jason Mantzoukas [05:36]: "I will pass out. I have to be cool."

2. Plot and Continuity Flaws

   • The movie's narrative is plagued with inconsistencies, such as the sudden reveal of one twin being an assassin and the other a cat burglar without adequate buildup.
   • Rory Scovel [06:37]: "Would it surprise you that this is one of four of their films done Boy."

3. Character Development

   • The twins exhibit minimal growth, maintaining identical personalities throughout, which hinders the audience's ability to differentiate or empathize with them.
   • Jessica St. Clair [07:00]: "They are, they're very into like cat and mouse games."

4. Memorable Scenes

   • The subway rescue scene and the absurdly prolonged handcuff grinding highlight the film's commitment to over-the-top action.
   • Paul Scheer [15:29]: "The one character in this movie does not change his wardrobe for one scene. But it's like, oh, now, but multiple days."

   Notable Quote:

   • Jason Mantzoukas [51:22]: "When they press stop, not only does the security footage stop, but the score stops."

5. Humor and Unintentional Comedy

   • The panel appreciates the film's unintentional humor, likening certain scenes to classic slapstick and cartoon antics.
   • Rory Scovel [57:54]: "Bring back the belly shirt."

6. Special Effects and Production Quality

   • The low-budget effects, such as the use of outdated props and improbable stunt sequences, add to the film's charm.
   • Jason Mantzoukas [60:13]: "He throws it on the car, and then the guy whose car falls on, he just kind of pushes it off."

Audience Interaction

Listeners submitted questions regarding plot inconsistencies and character motivations, which the hosts addressed with humorous skepticism and critical analysis.

Notable Questions:

• Why does an FBI agent have jurisdiction over a limo driver? - Asked by a listener named Liz.

  Response:

  • Jason Mantzoukas [62:15]: "I believe he is the first rappeller. They all were like, we're in a penthouse. We have to be ready to rappel down the side."

• Is there any character arc in the movie? - Raised by Big Mike.

  Response:

  • Rory Scovel [78:05]: "That was his first take on the film. And they were like, you're genius, dude."

Conclusion and Recommendations

Despite its numerous flaws, Double Trouble is celebrated by the panel for its earnestness and the sheer dedication of its actors. The hosts recommend embracing the film's imperfections as part of its unique charm.

Final Thoughts:

• Paul Scheer [82:41]: "If you're mad at this movie, like, what the hell is wrong with you? It's about beefy twins. Five stars."
• Jason Mantzoukas [83:19]: "All right, so we all recommend it."

Where to Find the Hosts and Guests

• Rory Scovel: Catch his shows at the Skylark Lounge on April 15 and at the Bug Theater on April 29.
• Jessica St. Clair: Join her and other comedians for Movie Night at the Bug Theater.
• Paul Scheer & Jason Mantzoukas: Support their live shows in Toronto and Chicago, and check out their other projects such as The Dark Web.

Final Words

How Did This Get Made? wraps up the episode by acknowledging the enduring appeal of Double Trouble despite—or perhaps because of—its myriad shortcomings. The hosts invite listeners to join their live performances and continue the conversation about beloved bad movies.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Mantzoukas [84:24]: "Eat shit, Colorado."

Stay tuned for more episodes every Friday, with classic episodes re-released every Tuesday. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss a discussion!