Podcast
Talking Dick: The Dick Tracy Movie Podcast
Hosted by James and Simon · EN
In 1990, one of the greatest comic‑book adaptations ever made burst onto the big screen—Warren Beatty’s Dick Tracy. With its star‑studded cast, bold colours, unforgettable villains, and a tidal wave of merchandise, this film became a short‑lived but powerful cultural phenomenon.
Now, more than 30 years later, this podcast is here to explore, unpack, and dissect this brightly coloured masterpiece—week by week, scene by scene.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
EP17 - Talking Dick - Sam Catchem 'Dick Tracy's Right Hand Man'
1w ago00:48:01Tap to summarizeSimon and James discuss the legacy of Sam Catcham, his role in Dick Tracy, the cult following of supporting actor, Seymour Cazelle, his background and filmography, and work in independent films, plus notable films and TV shows. Sam Catcham in the comics, his role and appearance in recent comics, and a comparison of Sam Catcham in comics and film. The conversation delves into the exploration of Sam Catcham's character, the role of Sam Catcham in the film, Seymour Cazelle's impact and legacy, merchandise and legacy of Sam Catcham, final thoughts on Sam Catcham and Seymour Cazelle, and the Dick Tracy Joke Book.TakeawaysSam Catcham's character in the film is memorable and stands out with minimal screen timeSeymour Cazelle's extensive filmography and work ethic are noteworthy Exploration of Sam Catcham's characterSeymour Cazelle's impact and legacyChapters00:00 Introduction and Hollywood Boulevard Handprints11:10 Seymour Cazelle's Filmography and Work Ethic16:15 Seymour Cazelle's Memorable Roles21:20 Sam Catcham's Role in the Comics26:37 Impression of Sam Catcham in the Film33:37 Merchandise and Legacy of Sam Catcham46:08 The Dick Tracy Joke Book
Transcribe →EP16 - Talking Dick - 'Meeting The Fans' A Conversation with Brian Styron
2w ago00:42:47Tap to summarizeSimon and James chat with with fellow Dick Tracy (and Indiana Jones) fan Brian Styron. Talking about, childhood memories at Disney World, the evolution of Indiana Jones, favorite films, building a fan community, nostalgia, theme park experiences, childhood movie merchandise, cancelled movie rides, movie memorabilia, and the impact of Dick Tracy on childhood memories. The discussion also explores the potential for rediscovery of Dick Tracy by new generations. The conversation covers various aspects of the Dick Tracy franchise, including the rights and public domain, merchandise and collectibles, the Dick Tracy Adventures Instagram account, favorite quotes and standout scenes, likes and dislikes of the film, theme park convention, and future plans.TakeawaysNostalgia and childhood memories play a significant role in shaping the impact of movies on individuals.Theme park experiences and movie-related attractions have a lasting impact on childhood memories and movie fandom. The concept of public domain and its impact on the availability of creative works.The significance of merchandise and collectibles in preserving the legacy of a film franchise.Chapters00:00 The Age of On-Demand Movies10:27 Theme Park Experiences16:09 Movie Memorabilia and Handprints21:21 Impact of Dick Tracy on Childhood26:52 The Rights and Public Domain32:19 Favorite Quotes and Standout Scenes39:11 Theme Park Convention and Future Plans
Transcribe →EP15 - Talking Dick - McDonald's $1M Crimestoppers Promotion
3w ago00:51:52Tap to summarizeSimon and James delve into the McDonald's Dick Tracy Crime Stoppers Game, analyse the McDonald's promotion and tie-ins, examine the concept and execution of the McDonald's promotion, explore the scratch cards, discuss the winners of the promotion, explore promotion tie-ins and merchandise, and discuss prizes and TV spots. The conversation covers the analysis of various TV spots for McDonald's featuring Dick Tracy characters. It includes discussions about the characters, their transformation, and the demographic appeal of the spots. Additionally, there is a segment about the purchase of a Dick Tracy tie and its significance.TakeawaysEngaging with fans and listenersInfluence of other films on Dick Tracy Detailed analysis of McDonald's TV spots featuring Dick Tracy charactersSignificance of demographic representation in advertisingChapters00:00 Engaging with Listeners12:12 Al Pacino's Alias17:49 McDonald's Promotion Concept23:15 McDonald's Promotion Crime Scene28:48 Prizes and TV Spots35:27 The First TV Spot41:03 The Teenager TV Spot47:19 The Final TV Spot
Transcribe →EP14 - Talking Dick - Framing the World: Set Design & Art Direction
4w ago00:45:53Tap to summarizeThe episode delves into the production design of Dick Tracy, highlighting the radical visual experiments and the role of production designer Richard Silbert. It explores the meticulous process of set design, the influence of comic book aesthetics, and the collaboration between various departments to bring the film's world to life. The conversation delves into the intricate details of the set design and production of the film 'Dick Tracy', highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision of the team. The discussion also touches on the challenges and innovations involved in creating the iconic sets.TakeawaysProduction design isn't about realism, it's about meaningThe production design of Dick Tracy created a world that was a blend of reality and fantasy, resembling a comic bookThe attention to detail in production design, from color schemes to set construction, played a crucial role in shaping the film's visual identity Meticulous Set DesignCreative Vision and CraftsmanshipChapters00:00 Introduction and Banter16:30 The Influence of Comic Book Aesthetics23:06 Collaboration and Working Relationship31:18 The Era of the Film's Setting and Car Designs37:28 The Team's Approach to Set Design and Construction43:25 Minimalistic Comic Book Set and Room Design
Transcribe →EP13 - Talking Dick - Dick Tracy 'Applause' Merchandise (Part 2)
May 2600:32:09Tap to summarizeThe conversation covers a wide range of merchandise related to the Dick Tracy movie, including keychains, pin badges, gift bags, plush toys, and more. The variety of merchandise and its collectible value are the main themes of the discussion. The conversation delves into the world of Dick Tracy merchandise by Applause, exploring a variety of collectibles and figurines. From assessing the figurines to discussing licensing and future purchases, the hosts provide a comprehensive review of the merchandise and its significance to collectors.TakeawaysMerchandise VarietyCollectible Value Dick Tracy merchandise by ApplauseVariety of merchandise and collectiblesChapters00:00 Merchandise Variety40:35 Collectible Value59:06 Exploring the Applause Catalog01:05:03 Discovering Breathless and Other Items01:12:16 Final Thoughts and Future Purchases
Transcribe →EP12 - Talking Dick - Dick Tracy 'Applause' Merchandise (Part 1)
May 1900:38:09Tap to summarizeThe Dick Tracy Movie Podcast discusses the history and merchandise of the Applause company, known for producing licensed collectibles and toys. They explore the unique features of the figurines and the challenges faced by the company, shedding light on the impact of their products on the market. The conversation covers a range of collectible items related to the Dick Tracy franchise, including mugs, ceramic novelties, and small toy cars. The hosts discuss the details and practicality of each item, as well as their personal experiences with collecting and using these items.TakeawaysApplause company's merchandise was known for its unique features and collectible value.The challenges faced by the company, including financial troubles and loss of licensing, had a significant impact on its downfall. Collectible items related to popular franchises can be both practical and conversation pieces.The hosts' personal experiences and insights add depth to the discussion about collectible items.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Dick Tracy Movie Podcast13:24 Exploring Dick Tracy Applause Merchandise23:52 Conclusion and Reflection on Applause Company30:27 Discussion on Breathless Mahoney Mug37:51 Exploring Small Toy Cars and Novelty Items
Transcribe →EP11 - Talking Dick - The 1990 World Premiere
May 1200:37:00Tap to summarizeThe conversation delves into the grand premieres of Dick Tracy, covering the events in Washington, Woodstock, Illinois, and Walt Disney World. It explores the significance of these premieres and the star-studded attendance, providing insights into the unique experiences of each event. The conversation also touches on the value of Dick Tracy merchandise and the impact of the film's legacy.TakeawaysGrand premieres as eventsSignificance of Dick Tracy premieresChapters00:00 The Grand Premieres of Dick Tracy15:59 The Final Premiere at Walt Disney World
Transcribe →EP10 - Talking Dick - Flattop, Big Boys No.1 Hitman
May 600:38:02Tap to summarizeThe conversation covers the infamouse villian Flattop, his origin and inspiration, William Forsythe's portrayal and the origin in comics. Inspiration for Flattop's name and character, early depictions in comics and TV shows, and his fate in the comics. Flattop's portrayal in recent comics, villainous appearance and impact. William Forsythe's portrayal of Flattop in Dick Tracy, and William Forsythe's career and other roles. The discussion also delves into William Forsythe's experience on the Dick Tracy set, his iconic portrayal and role in the movue. It explores the character's impact, potential return... Summing up the show talking about the availability of merchandise and collectables.TakeawaysFlattop's origin and inspirationWilliam Forsythe's portrayal of FlattopWilliam Forsythe's career and other roles Bill Forsythe's portrayal of Flattop in the Dick Tracy film is iconic and memorable.The character of Flattop is a significant and enduring part of the Dick Tracy franchise.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Contact Information10:14 Flattop's Fate in the Comics16:27 William Forsythe's Career and Other Roles22:56 Bill Forsythe's Portrayal of Flattop28:38 Flattop's Potential Return35:13 Concluding Thoughts on Flattop
Transcribe →EP09 - Talking Dick - Make-Up and Prosthetics
Apr 2800:42:45Tap to summarizeThe conversation covers the engagement with the audience, the importance of makeup in Dick Tracy, the process of character makeup, and the creation of the characters. It delves into the significance of makeup in defining the visual identity of the film and the meticulous process of applying character makeup. It also explores the creative process of bringing the comic strip characters to life through makeup. The conversation delves into the story of Little Face, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, uncredited actors, method acting, makeup transformation, makeup details subtle makeup, prosthetics, casting, makeup as visual storytelling, the Blank character, and Dick Tracy purchases and future episodes.TakeawaysEngaging with the audience is crucial for building a community around the podcast.Makeup plays a pivotal role in defining the visual identity of a film and bringing comic strip characters to life. Makeup as a storytelling toolBehind-the-scenes anecdotes and controversiesChapters00:00 Engaging with the Audience19:06 The Process of Character Makeup25:29 Creating the Characters31:28 Uncredited Actor Controversy36:40 Subtle Makeup and Side Characters42:17 Dick Tracy Purchases and Future Episodes
Transcribe →EP08 - Talking Dick - Al Pacino (With Special Guest Mark Searby)
Apr 2101:17:52Tap to summarizeThe conversation delves into Al Pacino's career with special guest Mark Searby talking about Al's methodical approach to character portrayal, and the challenges faced during the production of Dick Tracy. It also explores the allure of Al Pacino, his impact on film, and his transition to comedy. Additionally, it highlights the exclusive interviews and book writing process, the journey of the All About Al Pacino podcast, and the influence of Al Pacino's work. The conversation methodically explores Al Pacino's extensive involvement in the development of his character in Dick Tracy, his groundbreaking performance, and the impact of the film. It also delves into the timelessness of Dick Tracy and includes insights from an interview with Doug Drexler, offering behind-the-scenes perspectives on the film's production. The conversation delves into the behind-the-scenes stories of Al Pacino's performance in Dick Tracy, highlighting the impact of makeup and prosthetics on his portrayal. It also explores the marketing and merchandise associated with the film, as well as Al Pacino's notable performances and dedication to his roles.TakeawaysAl Pacino's career revival in the 90sThe methodical approach to character portrayal Al Pacino's involvement in the development of his character in Dick Tracy was extensive and included input on prosthetic make-up and costume materials.Al Pacino's performance in Dick Tracy was influential and groundbreaking, setting a precedent for comic book character portrayals in film. Al Pacino's dedication to his rolesThe impact of makeup and prosthetics on Pacino's performanceChapters00:00 The Challenges of Dick Tracy Production37:25 Al Pacino's Oscar Nomination and Influence on Comic Book Movies45:10 The Timelessness and Impact of Dick Tracy53:02 Interview with Doug Drexler and Behind-the-Scenes Insights01:00:04 Pacino's Standout Performance01:08:03 Al Pacino's Notable Performances
Transcribe →