Podcast Summary: TBTL Episode #873 - "Why Can't We Stop Crying?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live
• Host/Author: Luke Burbank and Jen Andrews
• Description: TBTL is a daily show hosted by two longtime friends navigating the world with humor and candid conversations.
• Episode: #873: Why Can't We Stop Crying?
• Release Date: July 27, 2011

Introduction

In Episode #873 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live, hosts Luke Burbank and Jen Andrews delve into the emotional realm of cinema, exploring the films and specific scenes that have the power to move audiences to tears. The episode is anchored around listener interactions, personal anecdotes, and a mix of humor that the duo is known for.

Exploring the Saddest Movies and Scenes

Listener Poll and Main Discussion:

The episode kicks off with Luke announcing a listener poll from their website, asking, "What's the saddest movie of all time?" The discussion centers on identifying not just the saddest films but pinpointing the exact scenes that evoke the strongest emotional responses.

Highlighted Movie – The Champ:

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around The Champ, particularly the poignant scene where Ricky Schroeder's character pleads with Jon Voight's character to leave him:

Luke Burbank [11:10]: "You don't want me to go. You understand?"

Jen Andrews [11:38]: "I know. I just love that scenario."

This scene is lauded by both hosts as extraordinarily tear-jerking, supported by research mentioned by Luke, indicating that this moment in The Champ is one of the most effective at making viewers cry swiftly and intensely.

Other Notable Mentions:

Listeners contributed a variety of films known for their emotional depth, including:

• Animated Classics: Old Yeller, Bambi, Dumbo, Fox and the Hound, and Charlotte's Web.

  Jen Andrews [15:01]: "Everything where an animal dies... Anything where an animal dies."

• Dramas: Mr. Holland's Opus, Field of Dreams, Casablanca, It's a Wonderful Life, The Notebook, and Blue Valentine.

  Jen Andrews [16:03]: "Mr. Holland's Opus... the idea that you could have this moment where you find out how much you mattered."

Discussion on Emotional Triggers:

Luke and Jen explore why certain movies resonate deeply, often tied to personal connections, character development, and the portrayal of loss or unfulfilled dreams. They discuss how real-life implications, as seen in movies like Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan, affect viewers differently compared to purely fictional tear-jerkers.

Jen Andrews [14:22]: "When you don't... movies can kind of soar more, you know, because you can add in a lot more tear jerker things."

Personal Anecdotes and Emotional Reflections

Jen's Experiences:

Jen shares her personal encounters with emotional film moments, such as watching The Champ and reflecting on how seeing loved ones cry during movies has influenced her perception.

Jen Andrews [19:21]: "I always have to just fast forward it because it just takes me back to being a little kid..."

Luke's Emotional Sojourns:

Luke discusses how certain film scenes, like those in Casablanca and Toy Story 2, impact him emotionally, especially when combined with his physical state, such as being sick or on antibiotics.

Luke Burbank [20:02]: "That's actually all mentioned in Sky's blog post is Joni Mitchell's orchestral version of Both Sides Now plays in the background while Emma weeps her eyes out."

Listener Interactions and Call Makers Ahoy Ahoy

Call Makers Ahoy Ahoy Segment:

A recurring segment where the hosts call listeners to engage in spontaneous conversations. In this episode, they connect with Brad, who expresses frustration over the declining culture of greeting strangers.

Brad [40:39]: "People don't look up and greet people like they used to... it's rather frustrating to, you know, say good morning and be ignored."

This interaction sparks a broader discussion on societal changes, regional differences in politeness, and the impact of technology on human interactions.

Additional Segments and Highlights

Wine Naming Contest:

The hosts invite listeners to participate in naming a new red blend wine from their sponsor, Chateau San Michel. Suggestions like "Red Gingham" and "Porch Thyme" are highlighted, encouraging listener engagement.

Jen Andrews [37:19]: "I have a whole bunch, actually. Simone and actually a couple other people sent in the idea for Red Gingham."

Music Recommendations:

Jen introduces the band David Mayfield Parade, sharing their music and promoting upcoming performances, enhancing the episode's variety.

Jen Andrews [31:30]: "There's a band that I really, really like called the David Mayfield Parade... he's playing in Seattle this Saturday night."

Listener Emails and Stories:

Several listener emails are read and discussed, ranging from humorous anecdotes about wardrobe malfunctions to heartfelt stories about personal growth and family misunderstandings.

Listener Denise [52:21]: "The only problem with the fishnets is that my preschool age son licks my legs when I wear them..."

Wrap-Up and Upcoming Events

As the episode draws to a close, Luke and Jen reflect on past events, such as their unique prom experience, and tease upcoming activities like mailing out signed posters and hosting a book club discussion on The Hunger Games. They maintain their trademark humor and camaraderie, encouraging listener participation and expressing gratitude for the engaged community.

Jen Andrews [63:17]: "I just thought we could really surprise people. Everyone get it in the mail."

Luke Burbank [66:18]: "But we could use some help. So I will put a thing up on the website."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jen Andrews [00:14]: "There's something to live for."

• Jen Andrews [03:22]: "I'm trying to be strong this time because last time..."

• Jen Andrews [15:01]: "People just mentioned Charlotte's Web. Anything where an animal dies."

• Jen Andrews [16:03]: "Mr. Holland's Opus... the idea that you could have this moment where you find out how much you mattered."

• Jen Andrews [19:21]: "I think it's Dumbo... when she's in the cage."

• Jen Andrews [42:12]: "I was born and raised in Seattle, but I always say hi just because it makes me feel so awkward not to."

• Luke Burbank [11:10]: "You don't want me to go. You understand?"

• Luke Burbank [54:44]: "I just want to throw that in."

Conclusion

Episode #873 of TBTL: Too Beautiful To Live offers a heartfelt exploration of why certain movies and scenes have an enduring emotional impact on audiences. Through engaging discussions, listener contributions, and personal reflections, hosts Luke and Jen provide a comprehensive look into the mechanics of cinematic sadness and its effects on viewers. The episode not only identifies key milestones in sad cinema but also fosters a community connection by inviting listener participation and sharing diverse perspectives on emotional storytelling.