538 : Clive’s Contemporaries 1987 – Angel Heart
Jose and I love doing movie commentaries, but we have run out of films to cover! The series “Commentary on Clive’s Contemporaries” allows us to look in the background and see what movies were happening when these Clive Barker movies and sequels were being made. We choose a range of movies, and you, the listeners, vote for which one we cover. This series was sponsored by our listeners in the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign, Clive Barker Podcast Presents Fundraiser 11 : The Patron Configuration and covers a range of years from 1973 (Salome) to 2024 (Night of the Zoopocalypse) and beyond.
From The Reef
So Far:
- 1973 — The Forbidden VS. Enter the Dragon
- 1978 — Salome Vs. Invasion of the Body Snatchers
- 1985 — Transmutations VS. Silver Bullet
- 1986 – Rawhead Rex VS. Big Trouble In Little China
- 1987 – Hellraiser VS. Prince of Darkness
- 1987 – Hellraiser VS. Angelheart
- 1988 – Hellbound VS. They Live
- 1990 – Nightbreed VS.
Commentary, Angel Heart
1987 – Directed by Alan Parker, Written by William Hjortsberg & Alan Parker
1h 53m
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AI Summary
Ryan and Jose recorded episode 538 of the Clive Barker Podcast, focusing on an audio commentary for the 1987 film Angelheart as part of their “Clive’s Contemporaries” series. They began with news about the successful Library of the Dead Kickstarter campaign, which had reached $1.5 million and unlocked new stretch goals. The majority of the episode was spent discussing Angelheart, with Ryan and Jose analyzing the film’s plot, characters, and themes, comparing it to Hellraiser and other films of the era. They discussed the film’s Faustian bargain, the performance of Mickey Rourke and Robert De Niro, and the movie’s grim and surreal atmosphere. They also touched on the film’s production, reception, and its place among other 1987 releases. The episode concluded with a brief mention of upcoming podcast topics and a discussion about potential future interviews.
Library of the Dead Campaign
Ryan and Jose discussed the latest updates on the Library of the Dead Kickstarter campaign, noting that it had surpassed its $1.5 million stretch goal and introduced a new goal at $2 million. They reviewed the campaign’s details, including late pledges and exclusive content, and agreed it was worth supporting. The conversation then shifted to an audio commentary on the film “Angelheart,” analyzing its plot, characters, and connections to Clive Barker’s book “Falling Angel.” They discussed the film’s themes, including amnesia, supernatural elements, and the relationship between the protagonist and the devil-like character, Louis Cipher.
Angel Heart Movie Analysis Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed the movie “Angel Heart,” focusing on its plot, characters, and themes. They analyzed Johnny Favorite’s role, the presence of voodoo elements, and the movie’s setting in Louisiana during the Civil Rights era. The discussion included insights into the movie’s portrayal of dissociation, hallucinations, and the devil’s influence on Johnny Favorite’s actions. They also compared it to other films with similar plot elements and debated the movie’s interpretation, particularly regarding Johnny’s actions and the role of the devil.
Movie Scene Analysis Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed their reactions to a movie scene involving the devil character meeting with a lawyer, with Jose noting the character’s nonchalant behavior and long nails. They analyzed the setting in a church office, discussing how it represents a corrupt place where witchcraft is being practiced. The conversation also touched on the film’s gritty visual style and the character of a journalist named Connie who provides information about Johnny Favorite to Harry.
Movie Deal with the Devil
Jose and Ryan discussed a movie involving a character who made a deal with the devil but forgot about it, leading to consequences in his life. They analyzed various elements of the film, including its setting, characters, and historical context, particularly focusing on the character Johnny Favorite’s background and the significance of a $25,000 payment in the 1950s. The conversation also touched on the film’s surreal aspects and the use of beach therapy for health benefits in the past.
Movie Analysis and Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed a movie, focusing on characters, plot details, and actor performances. They analyzed specific scenes, including dialogue in French and references to a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Jose mentioned connections between the movie and other films featuring Mickey Rourke and shared insights about cultural traditions in Louisiana.
Japanese Culture and Celebrity Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed cultural practices in Japan regarding chopstick placement and shared observations about a movie they were watching. They researched an actress’s career trajectory and discovered she was married to Jason Momoa before their recent divorce. The conversation also included discussions about a musician character in the film and their experiences meeting celebrities.
Movie Analysis Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed various aspects of a movie, including the symbolism of chickens in a voodoo ritual, the lighting and set design, and the environmental effects on different settings. They analyzed specific scenes, such as a dream sequence involving an electric chair and the use of fake blood, and discussed the actors’ performances and the quality of the sets. The conversation also touched on the cultural and historical context of the movie, with references to the 1950s and the significance of certain objects like wardrobes.
Film Interpretation and Production Analysis
Jose and Ryan discussed their interpretations of a film, focusing on scenes involving a soldier, soul transference, and a ritual. They analyzed details like the use of a heart prop and religious elements, questioning the writer’s perspective on religion. They also talked about filming locations across New York City, Louisiana, and New Jersey, including specific sites in New Orleans.
Angel Heart Film Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed the film “Angel Heart,” including its production details, budget, and box office performance. They noted that principal photography took place from March to June 1986 and faced ratings issues from the MPAA. Jose mentioned Robert De Niro’s roles before and after the film, including “The Mission” and “The Untouchables.” The conversation then shifted to personal preferences about weather, particularly rain, before concluding with observations about recent weather conditions in Cleveland.
Angel Heart Movie Analysis Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed the movie “Angel Heart,” analyzing various plot elements including Johnny Favorite’s character, the role of Lewis Cipher in the murder, and Harry Angel’s descent into hell. They examined specific scenes, including a disturbing murder and a mirror-punching sequence, while discussing character motivations and symbolic elements in the film. The conversation concluded with a brief mention of director Alan Parker’s other notable works.
Angel Heart Movie Analysis
Jose and Ryan discussed the movie “Angel Heart,” focusing on its plot, actors, and scenes involving animal abuse. They analyzed the character of Johnny Favorite, the devil’s role in the story, and the significance of certain events and flashbacks. The conversation also touched on the movie’s themes of memory loss, soul-stealing, and manipulation, as well as the performances of the actors involved.
Movie Analysis: Angelheart Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed the movie Angelheart, analyzing its plot, special effects, and performances. They compared it to other films like Hellraiser and Prince of Darkness, ranking them in order of preference. Jose ranked Hellraiser first, Angelheart second, and Prince of Darkness third, while Ryan ranked Hellraiser first, Prince of Darkness second, and Angelheart third. They noted that while Angelheart had strong performances and music, its depressing nature and lack of relatable protagonist made it less appealing compared to the other films.
Podcast Content and Collaboration Plans
Jose and Ryan discussed upcoming podcast content including “Revelations” about an evangelical preacher and contemporary topics. They thanked Patreon supporters and sponsors, then talked about various movie adaptations including Spider-Man and Hulk films. Jose mentioned that Ed Martinez had finally connected with Peter Atkins regarding a potential Hellraiser 3 commentary track for a German release, though Ryan expressed skepticism about purchasing it. They agreed to explore reaching out to Phil and Sarah about potentially connecting with Clive Barker for future content and to discuss the Kickstarter.
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