Screenwriter, producer, and author Julian David Stone joins the podcast to discuss his new novel, IT'S ALIVE, and the fascinating story about the last-minute casting of Frankenstein.  The story involves Bela Lugosi, who was at the height of his popularity having just come off his hit DRACULA (1931), and Boris Karloff, a relatively unknown journeyman actor.   And pulling the strings is young 23-year-old Junior Laemmle, head of production at Universal Pictures and son of studio founder Carl Laemmle.  Along the way we meet director James Whale, discuss the involvement of Lon Chaney, and explore the backdrop of 1930s Hollywood.  It's a fascinating look into the real-life events behind one of the most enduring films and most important developments in the evolution of the Universal Monsters.Purchase IT'S ALIVE on AmazonPurchase FRANKENSTEIN 4K on AmazonPurchase UNIVERSAL MONSTERS 4K Collection on AmazonVisit Julian David Stone's website for more informationFollow Julian David Stone on Facebook The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

George Feltenstein announces the Warner Archive's upcoming October Blu-ray releases. PLUS details on Looney Tunes Collector’s Choice Vol. 2 and an exclusive announcement you don’t want to miss!Links to pre-orders of these titles will be added when available. MovieZyng Affiliate The BEST place to buy all of your Warner Archive and Boutique DVDs and Blu-raysDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

GAY PURR-EE (1962) is a forgotten classic of 1960s animation.  But the newly remastered Blu-ray release from the Warner Archive has restored the film to the rich, vibrant colors and sound that showcases the original artistry of Chuck Jones and Judy Garland. Animation and film historian Jerry Beck, film historian and Judy Garland expert John Fricke, and Warner Bros' George Feltenstein join the podcast to discuss the production history of the film, how Judy Garland was brought on board, and  why the film has struggled to attain the stature it rightly deserves.  We also provide a full review of the stunning new Blu-ray remaster, all of the robust extras, and an explanation of the differences between the film sound and the previously released film soundtrack."Gay Purr-ee" was ahead of its time and poorly marketed by UPA and Warner Bros upon its initial release.  While this new Warner Archive Blu-ray cannot rectifiy the past, it showcases the artistry and importance of the film for animation fans, Judy Garland devotees, and film collectors everywhere, and will hopefully lead to a newfound appreciation for the brilliance of the film.Purchase on Amazon: GAY PURR-EE BLU-RAY The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the world of George Pal and his Puppetoons, with Arnold Leibovit as our captivating guide! Leibovit is a renowned film historian and documentarian of George Pal, the innovative filmmaker who inspired industry legends like Walt Disney, Ray Harryhausen, Gene Roddenberry, and Steven Spielberg.We explore the evolution of Puppetoon animation, uncovering how Pal’s creativity led him to animate cigarettes for a commercial, and craft breathtaking short stories for Philips in Europe. This episode will also highlight the significant roles Walter Lantz, Leon Schlesinger, and Walt Disney played in helping Pal escape the Nazi's and establish his studio in the US.  Leibovit also details the painstaking restoration process behind the Puppetoons, Volume 3 Blu-ray, discussing the challenges of restoring frame by frame, and the necessity for minimal compression for the best viewing experience.  And then we get into a discussion of specific Puppetoons, starting with the first US production, "Western Daze," then" Bravo, Mr. Strauss," "Together in the Weather," and "Jasper and the Beanstalk ." And no discussion of George Pal is complete without a detailed look at the enchanting music of Puppetoon films and its vital role in enhancing the story and atmosphere. This episode is a must-listen for all animation collectors, George Pal fans, and film enthusiasts! Purchase PUPPETOON VOL. 3Purchase THE TIME MACHINE SOUNDTRACK (remastered) The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv

George Feltenstein of the Warner Archive joins the podcast for a fun and informative review of five of the August Blu-ray releases.   We review each film, provide background on the restoration and all of the extras on each release, and share our insights into why these films are worth adding to your Blu-ray collection.  Purchase links:FATHER'S LITTLE DIVIDEND BLU-RAYTHE LIFE OF EMILE ZOLA BLU-RAYLITTLE WOMEN BLU-RAYSPINOUT BLU-RAYWICHITA BLU-RAYGAY PURR-EE BLU-RAY The Extras Facebook pageThe Extras Twitter Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog GroupOtaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv