How Did This Get Made? – Episode: Last Looks: Q The Winged Serpent
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Hosts: Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, Jason Mantzoukas
Introduction and Episode Overview
In the episode titled "Last Looks: Q The Winged Serpent," hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas delve into the convoluted world of the 1970s cop movie Q The Winged Serpent. This film, blending elements of science fiction and crime drama, has gained a cult following for its peculiar storyline and production quirks. The hosts aim to unravel the layers that make this movie both baffling and endearingly entertaining.
Initial Impressions and Movie Breakdown
Jason Mantzoukas kicks off the discussion with a succinct summary:
"There's a beast over Manhattan streets. Plus a small-time crook who finds a body... Q, the winged serpent" (01:53).
Paul Scheer adds:
"This flick flies by so fast. 92 improv minutes to be precise." (02:31)
The hosts express their bewilderment at the film's hybrid genre, questioning its identity as either a sci-fi or crime story.
Corrections and Omissions
The segment titled "Corrections and Omissions" invites input from listeners to rectify any inaccuracies from their initial analysis.
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MCG3D points out an inconsiderate scene where detectives leave a body with a "Do Not Disturb" sign, reflecting poor police protocol of the 1970s.
“Like, how little do they care about who is going to come and clean that room...” (06:04)
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Sean McBee challenges a claim from director Larry Cohen about a non-existent New York Times article detailing anthropologists investigating a mysterious nest:
“Larry Cohen is a big fat liar...” (06:31)
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Lizette reveals:
“Carradine's wife was actually his real wife at the time,” and that the sacrifice victim was played by Carradine's brother, indicating rushed casting decisions. (09:00)
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Del Preston uncovers that a song titled "Evil Dream" credited in the movie was improvised by Michael Moriarty, revealing an unexpected layer to the soundtrack.
“Del Preston, you just uncovered something that blows my mind.” (14:15)
The hosts commend Del Preston for his insightful contribution and award him a special song by Joel Terry.
Bonus Scene from the Live Show
An exclusive snippet from the live show features Paul and Jason discussing character dynamics and inconsistencies within Q The Winged Serpent.
Jason Mantzoukas observes:
“The operation to take down Q... [is] rest assured, they fuck.” (17:29)
Paul Scheer humorously highlights:
“You know, when you go get your car serviced...am I getting taken for a ride?” (00:00) (Note: This seems to be a residual ad segment and likely excluded from the summary.)
The conversation underscores the film's absurdity and the hosts' enjoyment in dissecting its flaws.
Just Chat – Music and Pop Culture
In the "Just Chat" segment, Paul and Jason diverge from discussing the movie to talk about their latest musical adventures and pop culture interests.
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Music Recommendations:
Jason shares his admiration for Joni Mitchell's recent performances and his experience attending Mary Lattimore's live shows featuring her mother.“Mary is going to be doing a residency...so see you can avail yourself of the opportunity.” (40:25)
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Concert Experiences:
Jason recounts attending Destroyer's concert at the Lodge Room and meeting guitarist MDU Mokhtar.“Super interesting guy to talk to.” (40:51)
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Podcast and TV Show Discussions:
Jason recommends the KCRW podcast Lost Notes focused on 60s and 70s LA groupies and shares his thoughts on new releases like Skeleton Crew, a Star Wars series featuring young adventurers.“It's like a Goonies kid adventure with Jude Law as the adult.” (32:46)
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Upcoming Releases and Personal Favorites:
Paul expresses excitement for upcoming episodes, including the Christmas livestream and previews next week's discussion on the body-swap comedy Dream A Little Dream.“Next week, we will be doing the 1989 body swap comedy Dream A Little Dream...” (53:33)
Announcements and Future Episodes
Paul Scheer wraps up the episode by teasing the next installment:
"Next week we will be doing the 1989 body swap comedy Dream A Little Dream..." (53:33)
Listeners are encouraged to rate, review, and follow the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Additionally, exclusive merchandise such as "Team Fred" pint glasses and Paul Scheer's book Joyful Recollections of Trauma are advertised, available at Podswag.com.
Closing Remarks
The hosts extend gratitude to their producers and announce upcoming guests, including James Acaster from Taskmaster and Off Menu. Paul emphasizes the importance of listener engagement through Discord and social media channels.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Paul Scheer:
"This flick flies by so fast. 92 improv minutes to be precise." (02:31)
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Jason Mantzoukas:
"It's time for corrections and omissions." (06:04)
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Del Preston:
"This is one of the best corrections and omissions that we've had in a very long time." (16:32)
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Paul Scheer:
"Remember, if you want to submit a theme song to us, please email your theme to howdidthisgetmade@earwolf.com..." (16:11)
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Jason Mantzoukas:
"I love it." (23:20)
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Paul Scheer:
"Coming up next week, we'll be discussing Dream A Little Dream..." (53:33)
Conclusion
"Last Looks: Q The Winged Serpent" offers a comprehensive and humorous examination of a film that defies conventional categorization. Through listener interactions and deep dives into production anomalies, the hosts provide an entertaining dissection that not only critiques but also celebrates the quirks of bad cinema. Their seamless transition into discussions about music and pop culture further enriches the episode, making it a must-listen for aficionados of unconventional films and comedic analysis.