Retroist Ghost Story Podcast
Welcome to the 11th episode of the 15th season of the Retroist Podcast. Today’s episode, number 284, is all about the early eighties’ horror classic, Ghost Story.
I start this episode discussing the horror movie club that started in my circle of friends once one of our families got a VCR. It was a great time to discover films, but it raised an important question. How does a kid rent a rated R horror film at the video store?
When the story is over, I begin discussing the book and its author, Peter Straub. Then I move onto the film, covering people behind the camera, the cast, production, shooting locations, plot, and more.
Ghost Story has an interesting cult following. It has a throwback quality for its time, and so it appeals to a certain type of horror fan. The complexity of the book made for some difficult creative decisions that I think were handled superbly, but that complexity also lends itself to a longer form. So I think this book is ripe for a streaming series treatment.
Listen and download the Ghost Story Podcast
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Production Notes
11th episode of the new season and the 284th episode of the Retroist Podcast.
Cut out stuff about Straub in his bio. Mostly stuff from interviews.
I had to cut down my explanation of the plot of the book AND the move, they were rambling. Not sure if I nailed my short summaries, but I think it was good enough.
Shortened Cohen and Irvin sections. Had found some quotes that didn’t add much.
Had a section about the producer, it was short and not sure if people care much about producers. I have cut that out of most of my episodes, so I did it here.
As usual, the bio of cast members was too long. Listmania gone wild. I cut it down a lot. Removed about 3 minutes from the show.
Had some discussion of make-up. Not sure if I should have cut this section out completely? It was messy, but salvageable, but I cut it out.
John Houseman makes a Silver Spoons reference before Silver Spoons.
I am curious if Astaire was REALLY upset on the set or if that was just movie hype. Still I like the story.
I got my copy of the Ghost Story soundtrack and I have been listening to it often.
I removed some discussion of films. I loved looking at the old listing. I have been trying to print it out on the largest paper I have, but it is using a lot of ink. I need to think about. I would like to save ink, but I like looking at it printed out.
Such mixed reviews of the movie. I had some stuff about people I know who think the film is too slow. People who “get” this film, are really into this film.
Pick up the blu-ray, it is worth it for the commentary
I would watch a show about the making of Ghost Story the movie, a mini-series based on the book, or both.
Removed 3 commercials and a shortened trailer.
Music on the show is, as always, by Peachy.
Thanks for listening to the show and I hope you have a great weekend.