How Did This Get Made? – Last Looks: Doppelganger Release Date: March 14, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of "Last Looks," the beloved hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas dive deep into the enigmatic and critically panned film "Doppelganger." Skipping the usual advertising segments, the trio focuses on dissecting the movie's plot, addressing listener feedback, and sharing exciting updates about their podcast activities.

Tour Announcement and Guest Appearances

Paul Scheer kicks off the episode by announcing the upcoming "Doppelganger Tour," expressing enthusiasm about hosting live shows across various cities including Austin, Denver, Boise, Seattle, San Francisco, and Portland. A notable highlight is the inclusion of Jess St. Clair as a special guest, particularly exciting fans of June Diane Raphael, who is set to star as Elle Woods' mother in the highly anticipated "Legally Blonde" prequel series.

Paul Scheer (03:00): "I can't think of a better mom for Elle Woods than a version of June in the '80s. The shoulder pads, the Claudia Schiffer kind of fashion. I cannot wait."

Award Recognition

The hosts proudly announce that "How Did This Get Made?" has been honored with the Best TV and Film Podcast award from iHeart at SXSW 2025. Paul Scheer reflects on the significance of this achievement, highlighting the dedication and passion the team pours into each episode.

Paul Scheer (05:00): "When you get an award, it's pretty fucking cool. We are thrilled to get that. We are excited."

Corrections and Omissions: Delving into Doppelganger

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Corrections and Omissions related to "Doppelganger." The hosts address various listener submissions, clarifying plot points and exploring deeper interpretations of the film's themes.

Key Discussions:

1. Character Motivations and Plot Inconsistencies:
   • Discussing whether Dr. Heller truly represents a doppelganger or a demon, as suggested by listener Zilla21.
   • Analyzing Holly’s fear of the cat and its symbolic significance in the narrative.

Jason Mantzoukas (15:15): "Please help."

2. Symbolism and Christian Iconography:
   • Exploring the parallels between the movie's characters and biblical figures, such as comparing Dr. Heller to St. George from the legend of St. George and the Dragon.

Paul Scheer (02:14): "Why do angels and demons look the same? Is that to say that we all have a worm person inside of us and then sometimes we have an evil worm person?"

3. Doppelganger Mythology vs. D&D Lore:
   • Listener Grumblebottom connects the movie’s creature effects to the Dungeons & Dragons doppelganger from the 1977 Monster Manual, highlighting Greg Nicotero’s influence.

Jason Mantzoukas (43:15): "In the first edition of Advanced Dungeons and Dragons Monster Manual in 1977 lists a creature called Doppelganger... It looks exactly like the Nicoterra monster form in the film."

Hulu Recommendations: Paradise and Shorzy

The hosts shift focus to their favorite shows currently streaming on Hulu. Paul expresses his obsession with "Paradise," while Jason raves about "Shorzy." They delve into the unique storytelling and character development that make these shows stand out.

Paul Scheer (25:44): "Paradise is about the president and his Secret Service guy... It evolves and changes, and it is riveting television."

Jason Mantzoukas (32:14): "Shorzy Season 4 has just come out and is phenomenal. It's a six-episode series of 25 minutes each. Very doable."

Book Recommendations and Literary Discussions

Paul and Jason share their current literary pursuits, recommending intriguing books that blend detective noir with humor and complexity.

Highlights:

• Jonathan Ames’ "Karma Doll": A pulpy detective series featuring a protagonist entangled in convoluted plots and personal vices.

  Paul Scheer (43:09): "Karma Doll is a hard recommend... it's fantastic."

• James Crumley’s C.W. Croker Series: Jason praises the blend of hard-boiled detective stories with hilarious exploits.

  Jason Mantzoukas (44:58): "These are terrific hard-boiled stories, but the characters get into such hilarious exploits."

Just Chat: TV Shows and Pop Culture

In the "Just Chat" segment, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about various TV shows, comparing and contrasting their storytelling styles and overall appeal.

Discussion Points:

1. "The Diplomat" and "Black Doves":

   • Comparing the straightforward narratives and character-driven plots that make these shows both engaging and accessible.

2. "SAS Rogue Heroes" and "A Thousand Blows":

   • Delving into Steven Knight’s work, highlighting the historical and criminal elements that resonate with fans of "Peaky Blinders."

3. "Severance" on Hulu:

   • Paul shares his binge-watching experience, while Jason emphasizes the show's unique narrative structure.

Jason Mantzoukas (35:48): "Shorzy is one of the best comedies on TV right now. Absolutely fantastic."

Announcing the Next Movie: This is Me Now A Love Story

As the episode nears its end, the hosts reveal their next cinematic target: "This is Me Now A Love Story," a 2024 film starring Jennifer Lopez. They provide a comprehensive overview of the film's plot, critical reception, and personal impressions.

Movie Overview:

• Plot: A mythologically driven narrative that showcases Jennifer Lopez’s journey to love, featuring fantastical costumes, mesmerizing choreography, and star-studded cameos.

• Critical Reception: Rotten Tomatoes scores the film at 75%, with critic Amy Nicholson praising its self-mocking and open nature.

Paul Scheer (45:07): "This is a fun, short, experimental film. It's very self-mocking and open. I kind of loved it. It's insane, but it's also just fucking great."

• Personal Take: Both hosts express excitement and appreciation for the film's unique approach to storytelling and its emotional depth.

Conclusion and Upcoming Content

Wrapping up the episode, Paul and Jason encourage listeners to rate and review the podcast, stay connected via their Discord community, and tune in for future episodes. They also tease upcoming content, including discussions on award-winning films and more in-depth movie analyses.

Paul Scheer (last segment): "If you listen to us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, please rate and review us. Visit us on social media at hdtgm."

Notable Quotes

• Paul Scheer (03:00): "I can't think of a better mom for Elle Woods than a version of June in the '80s."

• Jason Mantzoukas (15:15): "Please help."

• Paul Scheer (05:00): "When you get an award, it's pretty fucking cool."

• Jason Mantzoukas (43:15): "It looks exactly like the Nicoterra monster form in the film."

• Jason Mantzoukas (32:14): "Shorzy Season 4 has just come out and is phenomenal."

• Paul Scheer (45:07): "This is a fun, short, experimental film. It's very self-mocking and open. I kind of loved it."

Final Thoughts

"Last Looks: Doppelganger" offers a thorough and entertaining examination of a film that has left audiences perplexed. With insightful analysis, heartfelt discussions, and engaging banter, Paul, June, and Jason deliver a memorable episode that not only critiques but also celebrates the chaotic charm of "bad movies." Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the podcast, this episode provides a wealth of content that is both informative and highly entertaining.