Episode's summary
Stallone Steps memoir chapter 6 Ryan and Jared listen to chapter 6 of Sylvester Stallone’s memoir The Steps, the Fight or Flight section that moves from the deli to a high-school dance and back again. 0:00 Welcome, Jared returns, chapter 6 Fight or Flight 5:00 Name tag change, first mention of Frank 9:44 Trash guy confrontation, walks away 14:05 1961 Father Judge dance, Fishtown 18:48 Gets punched, feels like a coward, goes back 22:23 Cheap shot, priest beaten, chain-link fence 25:15 Shot in the triceps 29:44 Back to the deli, hammer and knife 32:00 Arrested, the Tombs 50:15 Released, apron in the trash CREDITS Book: The Steps by Sylvester Stallone (chapter 6, Fight or Flight) Hosts: Ryan and Jared
Stallone Steps memoir chapter 6 Ryan and Jared listen to chapter 6 of Sylvester Stallone’s memoir The Steps, the Fight or Flight section that moves from the deli to a high-school dance and back again. 0:00 Welcome, Jared returns, chapter 6 Fight or Flight 5:00 Name tag change, first mention of Frank 9:44 Trash guy confrontation, walks away 14:05 1961 Father Judge dance, Fishtown 18:48 Gets punched, feels like a coward, goes back 22:23 Cheap shot, priest beaten, chain-link fence 25:15 Shot in the triceps 29:44 Back to the deli, hammer and knife 32:00 Arrested, the Tombs 50:15 Released, apron in the trash CREDITS Book: The Steps by Sylvester Stallone (chapter 6, Fight or Flight) Hosts: Ryan and Jared
Episodes
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step One | Fight or Flight: Deli, Fishtown, The Tombs
ListenedStallone Steps memoir chapter 6 Ryan and Jared listen to chapter 6 of Sylvester Stallone’s memoir The Steps, the Fight or Flight section that moves from the deli to a high-school dance and back again. 0:00 Welcome, Jared returns, chapter 6 Fight or Flight 5:00 Name tag change, first mention of Frank 9:44 Trash guy confrontation, walks away 14:05 1961 Father Judge dance, Fishtown 18:48 Gets punched, feels like a coward, goes back 22:23 Cheap shot, priest beaten, chain-link fence 25:15 Shot in the triceps 29:44 Back to the deli, hammer and knife 32:00 Arrested, the Tombs 50:15 Released, apron in the trash CREDITS Book: The Steps by Sylvester Stallone (chapter 6, Fight or Flight) Hosts: Ryan and Jared
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step One | Sly Getting Ready for Failure, Deli Job, Audition, Coat
ListenedRyan and Adrian continue the live listen of Sylvester Stallone’s The Steps memoir, still on Step One, through the deli shift, an audition, and the winter coat he had to save for.
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step One | Juilliard and Stallone Cleans Lion Cages
ListenedRyan and Adrian listen to Sylvester Stallone’s The Steps memoir, still on step one, in the chapter where he cleans lion cages and bombs a Juilliard audition.
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step One | Born Tyrone, Mike to Everyone but Family
ListenedRyan and Doug stay cold on *The Steps*, chapter three of step one. First two agencies never get past the secretaries. No photo, no resume. Pharmacy booth, fifty cents, four poses, nose against the lens. Third office slides the strip back: professional shots only. Last name on the list. Walk-up, German accent, no secretary. He gives Mike Stallone. Then the birth-certificate fight: mother wanted Tyrone, after Tyrone Power; father blew up and put Sylvester on the form, Americanized from the grandfather, firstborn Italian custom. School years as Sylvester the Cat, Tweety, fists, suspensions. Mike ever since, except at home. That agent offers a 10 p.m. Brooklyn audition and does not come upstairs. Apartment 3D, a man called Ed, robe, sake, Death of a Salesman*, a noise in the closet. Sly leaves. Drink maybe laced. Cigarette, elevated train, proud he did not do something stupid. Bill Conti under the exit. Not *The Party at Kitty and Stud’s — Morton Lewis never shows. End of the chapter. No spoilers in chat. Fuse…
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step One | Sly Showers With His Clothes On!
ListenedRyan and Doug keep the cold listen of Sylvester Stallone reading *The Steps*. Step one is New York. Off the bus at Port Authority, heat, horns, no bed, no one he knows. Walk to 46th and 9th, Hell’s Kitchen, where it started. Born July 6, 1946. Mother in denial until labor on a bus. Forceps, crushed nerve, left side of the face, the slur. Cold-water flat, plywood on the tub, $15 rent, steel wool in the baseboards, pink mice under the sink. Father the barber who wanted to sing. Mother the cigarette girl at Billy Rose’s Diamond Horseshoe who later claimed she was the star. She never divorced truck-driver Tommy; a four-year-old son she denied. Furniture broken. Then three years in Queens with Mama Hansen, visits once a month. Frank is not in the room yet — Ryan and Doug flag the half-brother from their Frank coverage and wait for the split. Back to 1969. Bench at Port Authority, Woodstock headline, $80, Bowery flophouses, two nights by the garbage cans, then the Sutton at $21.80 a week. Room smaller than a…
Sylvester Stallone - The Steps | Step Zero - Avoid Comedy and Marriage!
ListenedRyan and Doug go in cold on the first listen of Sylvester Stallone reading The Steps (William Morrow / Harper Audio). Ryan has been skipping the press tour so the book stays a surprise. Doug takes the inaugural episode after years on the Rocky and Rambo runs. Dedication: Jennifer, Sophia, Sistine, Scarlet, then Sage and Serge. Chat flags Sasha as a character in I Play Rocky (Sir Robert). Sly did not write that film. Then step zero. Pyrenees, 1969, 100 pesetas, Madame Pilar, an egg in a handkerchief. Double lifeline, change around 25, three marriage lines, fortune by 1976, drama not singing, avoid comedy. University of Miami, a few credits short. Draft-dodge line left as a claim; hearing-loss story (amp at a concert) not in the pages yet. Costa Brava at dusk, a fisherman’s mussels, driftwood, time undefeated, then New York. Piano under it is Bill Conti. Live, pauses for comment, no spoilers in chat. Thunderlips is in. Rocky 50th is this year; Star Wars is next. Ryan’s Rocky and Rambo feeds; Doug is back when…
Rambo III - (Episode 6) - Failed Rescue, Sewer Escape, and One Bullet
ListenedRyan welcomes Variety writer Matthew Chernov (How the West Was Cast) to It’s a Long Road for a scene-by-scene look at Rambo III’s botched rescue. They talk Variety lists, why Matthew ranks Rambo III second in the franchise, then the failed raid: Trautman still captive, the injured boy, the sewer swim, the RPG that buys time, handing over Co’s necklace, and Stallone’s classic self-surgery with gunpowder. Matthew also walks through the 2021 Julian’s Auctions Stallone sale — First Blood knife, poncho, bow, Rocky script pages — and plugs How the West Was Cast plus his Variety pieces, including Tulsa King costume design. Ryan also hosts One More Round, the Rocky series podcast. 00:00 – Intro and Matthew’s Variety work 08:40 – Why he ranks Rambo III #2 12:50 – Bond and western podcasts / How the West Was Cast 41:00 – Sewer escape, the boy, and the failed mission 43:30 – Sending the boy northwest / Co’s necklace 45:30 – Wound-cauterizing sequence and the body cast 48:30 – How the episode felt as a first-time video…
Rambo III - (Episode 5) - Peak Mullet, Inflamed Lips, and a Hospital Raid
ListenedRyan welcomes Dominick Tartamella (Movie Thoughts podcast, Genuine Reels impersonations) to It’s a Long Road for another scene-by-scene pass through Rambo III. They cover Dominick’s Stallone fandom from his dad’s VHS tapes, why Rambo III is his least favorite of the series, and then the aftermath of the village attack: the leader’s “where is the honor?” speech, Rambo declaring “it is now” his war, the boy who wants to fight, and the famous “he would do it for me / he calls me Johnny” walk-off. Along the way: hairline debates, possible lip work, a visible costume flub, and plenty of Rocky asides. Find Dominick’s solo reviews on Movie Thoughts. Ryan also hosts One More Round, the Rocky series podcast. 00:00 – Intro and Dominick’s Movie Thoughts / Genuine Reels 06:00 – Stallone and Rambo fandom origin 12:30 – Overall take on Rambo III 16:00+ – Hair, lips, and peak physical Stallone 49:40 – Hair plugs debate 51:40 – Leader scene after the attack / “where is the honor?” 56:00 – “It is now” / “you’re a good…
Rambo III - (Episode 4) - Horses, Holy Warriors, and a High-Budget Look
ListenedRyan welcomes Sicco (Hugging a Cactus / the Mel Gibson podcast, the Arnold podcast, Last of the Action Heroes Network) for his first appearance on It’s a Long Road, the Rambo series podcast. They talk overall Rambo fandom — why First Blood is Stallone’s best acting work — then settle into Rambo III: the well-shot Russian prison sequence with Trautman, the village hospital, Soviet toy mines, Yuri the defector’s rock-and-stick briefing, and the council that decides whether to help free Trautman. Sicco adds real-world timing on the Soviet-Afghan war and why the movie already felt slightly out of date in 1988. Also plugged: Game Changers (starting with G.I. Jane), Bird on a Wire, Nowhere to Run, Spies Like Us, Red Dawn, and the new Arnold season. 00:00 – Intro and Sicco’s shows (Mel Gibson, Arnold, Game Changers) 04:40 – Overall Rambo fandom and First Blood as acting 07:00 – How Rambo III felt in 1988 vs now 11:20 – Real-world Soviet-Afghan conflict timing 16:50 – Back at the Russian base / Trautman in the cell…
Rambo III - (Episode 3) - Troutman Interrogation & “We Had Our Vietnam”
ListenedRyan welcomes friends Sean and Brad from **Eh & B! The PNW Sports Show** for more Rambo III coverage on It’s a Long Road! We pick up right after Troutman’s capture, dive into the intense interrogation with the Russian commander, Troutman’s powerful “We had our Vietnam” speech, the prophetic dialogue about the Afghan people, and the epic horseback trek through the mountains with Mousa. Expect plenty of laughs, wrestling stories, Sly vs. Arnold debate, and real talk about the franchise’s life lessons. **Find Sean & Brad:** Eh & B! The PNW Sports Show – available on all major podcast platforms Facebook | Instagram | Twitter (search Eh & B! or The PNW Sports Show) 00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome 01:15 Sean & Brad Intro + Wrestling Stories 05:00 Eh & B! Podcast Background 05:45 Rambo Franchise Fandom Overview 08:29 Sean’s Rocky/Rambo Origin Story 11:31 Rambo 3 Production Facts 12:34 Sly vs. Arnold & Military Realism 16:20 Picking Up After Troutman’s Capture 43:03 Russian Commander Interrogation Begins 49:24…
Rambo III - (Episode 2) - Rambo Declines the Mission & Troutman’s Failed Op
ListenedContinuing Season 3 of It’s a Long Road with special guest Dan from the Retrospectors YouTube channel (Sega retro gaming & online multiplayer on original hardware)! We break down key early Rambo III scenes: Rambo’s refusal of the Afghanistan mission (“I’m not ready yet”), the contemplative rooftop moments, Troutman’s bizarrely planned nighttime operation that goes sideways, and Rambo’s decision to go in unofficially. Dan shares how he discovered the podcast via James Rolfe, his Sega roots (Phantasy Star stories!), and how a younger fan found Rocky & Rambo in the early 2000s. Like, comment your thoughts on the mission planning, and subscribe! Check out Dan’s channel: Retrospectors (Sega-focused retro gaming content). 00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome 00:44 Dan’s Channel & How He Found the Podcast 03:11 Sega Gaming Talk & Phantasy Star Story 09:27 Rambo/Sega Games & Sly Fandom Origins 15:37 Dan’s Path to Rocky & Rambo 32:33 “I’m Not Ready Yet” Scene & Analogy 35:31 Troutman’s Nighttime Mission Begins 41:07 Mission…
Rambo III - (Episode 1) - Stick Fight & Troutman Returns
ListenedHost Ryan kicks off Rambo III coverage with special guest Nikki from the Beat the Cult podcast. We dive into the film’s unique opening: Rambo’s intense stick-fighting match in Thailand, his self-flagellation and guilt, Troutman’s surprise arrival at the monastery, and the pitch for the Afghanistan mission. Nikki shares her Sly Stallone fandom origin story (Rocky IV inspiration during her weight-loss journey), first viewings of the Rambo films, and fresh perspective on the character. Like, comment, and subscribe! Follow Nikki / Beat the Cult on YouTube (and Twitter). 00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome 00:53 Nikki’s Beat the Cult Podcast & Atheist Perspective 07:31 Nikki’s Sly Fandom & Weight Loss Journey 16:29 First Time Watching Rambo 3 20:30 Rambo III Opening Credits & Stick Fight Setup 27:22 Stick Fight Sequence & Self-Flagellation 36:27 Troutman Arrives at the Monastery 40:19 Afghanistan Mission Pitch 43:49 Closing Thoughts & Episode Wrap
Eye See You / D-Tox - Stallone's Cop Killer Slasher
ListenedSylvester Stallone stars in the 2002 (filmed 1999) horror/thriller Eye See You (ICU) (aka Detox)! The crew dives into this overlooked slasher where Stallone plays an FBI agent tracking a cop killer who ends up in a remote Wyoming rehab facility with other troubled officers. We discuss the bizarre kills (eye-drilling, impalements), weak plot, future tech predictions that didn’t land, strong supporting cast moments (Robert Patrick, Charles S. Dutton, Polly Walker), and why this one flopped despite the talent involved.
Demolition Man: Three Seashells & Simulated Sex
ListenedDive into the 1993 Sylvester Stallone sci-fi action classic Demolition Man! The crew breaks down Stallone as John Spartan, Wesley Snipes as the chaotic Simon Phoenix, Sandra Bullock as Huxley, and the wild utopian future society complete with three seashells, simulated sex, and cryo-prison twists. We cover the over-the-top action, hilarious one-liners, future tech predictions that came true, casting stories, and why this leave-your-brain-at-the-door buddy-cop movie still delivers. From the Taco Bell showdown to the epic finale, we discuss what holds up and what doesn’t.
Victory: Stallone's Goalkeeper Role, POW Soccer Escape!
ListenedJoin the Stallone fan podcast crew for a deep dive into the 1981 classic Victory (aka Escape to Victory)! We break down Sylvester Stallone’s POW soccer drama with Michael Caine, Pelé, and Max von Sydow — covering the epic match, real soccer legends on screen, escape plans, John Huston’s direction, and tons of fun trivia. From Stallone’s training injuries and on-set demands to the legendary bicycle kick, halftime escape chaos, and that crowd-rush finale, we discuss what makes this sports-war hybrid still hold up. Great cast chemistry, impressive cinematography, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Rocky II (Episode 7) - Mickey's Tough Love & Rock Bottom Scene
ListenedJoin Ryan, Kyle, and Katie for another fun-filled episode of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast as we break down key scenes from Rocky II! We discuss Rocky's emotional rock bottom, his heartfelt conversation with Mickey at the gym, the powerful stairs scenes, and what it means for the Italian Stallion's future in the ring. Plus: Sly news with the hilarious Paramount+ "Stallone Face" Super Bowl commercial featuring his daughters, updates on his upcoming reality show, an in-depth email from our favorite German listener Patrick about the toxic drama on the Stallone Zone forum regarding Creed III, and speculation on Creed IV. We also play Rocky trivia and chat vacations, vacation policies, and more! 0:00 - Intro & Listener Vacations 3:53 - Sly News: Paramount+ Commercial & Reality Show 7:14 - Email from Patrick: Stallone Zone Forum Drama & Creed Thoughts 17:58 - Creed III/IV Discussion & Gatekeeping 23:50 - Rocky Trivia 25:50 - Rocky II Scene Breakdown: Walk with Butkus & Mickey Reunion 31:28 - "You'll Go…
Rocky II (Episode 6) - Meat Montage, Adrian Drama & Fight Talk
ListenedJoin us on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast as we dive deep into Rocky II! We discuss the meat montage, Adrian's pregnancy tensions, Paulie's dockside wisdom, Rocky's eye injury struggles, fan emails, trivia, and why this sequel's fight and montages still hit hard. From Rocky hitting the slabs to debates on the rematch, Apollo's pressure, and classic Rocky-isms – this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and Rocky love. 0:00 - Intro & Hosts Check-In (Hangovers & Anti-Anxiety Meds) 1:50 - Listener Emails: Simon on Edits & Rocky’s Grammar 5:45 - YouTube Comments & Creed 3 News Tease 7:15 - Andreas Comments: Adrian Pressure & Rocky II Fight Analysis 11:45 - Donald on Rocky II Fight Rules & Slips 17:05 - Pam Anderson Sly Story & Meat Montage Preview 19:50 - Rocky Home from Work & Adrian Scene 27:55 - Full Meat Montage Discussion 31:20 - Rocky Gets Laid Off & Paulie at the Docks 39:05 - Basement Fight Decision & Adrian Argument 53:25 - Punching Bag Frustration & Episode Wrap
Rocky II (Episode 5) - Office Jobs, Meat Factory & Apollo's Wife Name Reveal
ListenedJoin Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round as they dive deep into Rocky II! From Rocky's hilarious office job interviews and Adrian's unwavering support to Paulie's thumb-breaking side hustle at the meat factory, this episode is packed with laughs, fan emails, trivia, and hidden details you might have missed. We discuss Stallone's real-life home sales, Facebook's wild self-harm flag on a movie quote, listener stories from Spain, and so much more. Perfect for Rocky fans, movie buffs, and anyone who loves classic underdog stories. 0:00 - Intro & Listener Emails 7:35 - Jamie's Email from Barcelona 15:44 - YouTube Comments & Facebook Drama 20:24 - Stallone Real Estate News 24:10 - Film Discussion: Rocky's Reading & Office Job Hunt 39:43 - Zoo Scene & Religious Themes 47:08 - Paulie at the Meat Factory & Joe Frazier Nod 53:34 - Rocky Trivia
Rocky II (Episode 4) - Apollo's Hate Mail, Pregnancy Reveal & Cringy Commercial
ListenedJoin Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round as they dive deep into Rocky II! In this episode, we react to Apollo Creed reading brutal hate mail, Rocky's neighborhood stickball game, Adrian's pregnancy reveal at the hospital, and the hilariously cringy Beast Aftershave commercial shoot. We discuss Rocky and Adrian's baby dreams, Apollo's mid-century modern mansion, continuity questions (like the cufflinks), Philly geography facts from listener Brian, and plenty of laughs along the way. 0:00 - Intro, Holidays, Patreon & Tulsa King Update 5:30 - Listener Email: Philly Geography in Rocky II (Ambulance Route & Zoo) 11:00 - Apollo Reading Hate Mail Scene Breakdown 20:00 - Cufflink Continuity Theory & Rocky V Connection 28:00 - Rocky Playing Stickball with Neighborhood Kids 31:30 - Adrian's Pregnancy Reveal & Hospital Scene 42:00 - Smart Deal Toy Commercial & Cringy Shoot Meltdown 59:00 - Director Drama, "Punchy" Explanation & Trivia Game 1:05:00 - Outro & Next Episode Tease
Rocky II (Episode 3) - Wedding, Shopping Spree, Brain Damage & Adrian's Sweaters
ListenedIn this episode, Ryan, Katie, and Kyle discuss Rocky II (1979), picking up after the iconic first fight. The crew covers Rocky and Adrian’s sweet (and awkward) married life, the neighborhood jukebox singers, the shopping spree with the Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am, the new house tour with sky-high taxes, Butkus in his Eagles jersey, brain damage banter, and plenty of Rocky-isms. Plus, they tackle listener emails, Tulsa King crossovers, trivia questions, and more! 0:00 - Intro & Listener Emails 6:30 - Tulsa King Rocky Crossover & Simon's Film 14:00 - Rocky & Adrian Wedding Night & Coitus Talk 22:00 - Neighborhood Jukebox & Carrying Adrian Home 33:00 - Shopping Spree, Trans Am & Tiger Jacket 43:00 - New House Tour, Bricks & Mortgage Details 52:00 - Trivia Answers & Bum Count 1:02:00 - Overall Thoughts & Wrap-Up
Backtrace: Why Sly Did This $6M Movie & Our Brutal Review
ListenedIn this episode, Ryan (Going the Distance), Craig (Sly Cast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) from the Stallone Podcast Network tackle Backtrace (2018), one of Stallone’s lesser-known straight-to-video thrillers. The guys start with an update on the upcoming Rocky 4 Director’s Cut before diving into Backtrace — a $6 million heist/amnesia movie starring Matthew Modine as a bank robber with memory loss, Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), and Sly in a supporting detective role. They discuss the wild family twist, the experimental memory serum, endless plot holes, questionable acting (including investor-actress Meta Williams), the cement factory showdown, and why Sly signed on post-Creed. Expect honest banter about the film’s shortcomings, production curiosities, and how it stacks up against better Stallone entries. This one’s a rough watch, but the conversation delivers! 0:00 - Intro & Rocky 4 Director’s Cut Discussion 8:40 - Backtrace Specs, Budget & Why Sly Did It 16:20 - Opening Heist, Matthew Modine & Amnesia…
Nighthawks: Stallone's Beard, Billy Dee Chemistry & Tram Final Sequence
ListenedIn this episode, Ryan, Doug, and Craig from the Stallone Podcast Network sit down for a comprehensive discussion of Sylvester Stallone’s 1981 thriller Nighthawks. The hosts explore Sly’s performance as undercover cop D’Silva (complete with the memorable beard), his strong chemistry with Billy Dee Williams as partner Matthew Fox, the gritty 1980s New York City setting, and the intense cat-and-mouse game with terrorist Wolfgar. They cover the film’s disco-heavy soundtrack featuring Rolling Stones' Brown Sugar, Keith Emerson score, key action sequences like the tram climax, deleted scenes, Stallone’s on-set influence, Rocky-isms, plot devices, and whether this could have been a buddy-cop classic. Tune in for an in-depth look at one of Stallone’s more grounded early dramatic roles outside the Rocky and Rambo franchises. 0:00 - Intro & Welcome 3:30 - First Impressions & Stallone Beard Talk 8:45 - Opening Drag Scene, Fights & Miranda Rights 15:20 - Billy Dee Chemistry, Comedy Bits & Rocky References 22:00 - Hauer…
Sylvester Stallone TV Comedy | Muppet Show & SNL
ListenedRyan, Doug & Craig dive into Sylvester Stallone’s legendary TV appearances — his 1979 guest spot on The Muppet Show and his 1997 hosting gig on Saturday Night Live. We break down the skits, Stallone’s straight-man energy with the Muppets, his comedic timing on SNL, and plenty of laughs along the way. Expect fun banter, behind-the-scenes insights, and classic Stallone moments from two iconic shows. If you love Sly, comedy history, or nostalgic TV deep dives, this one’s for you! 0:00 – Intro & network update 3:30 – The Muppet Show (1979) discussion 10:00 – Gladiator & groupie skits 22:00 – Saturday Night Live (1997) begins 28:00 – Orange Julius & vending machine chaos 40:00 – Jim Brewer & Tracy Morgan highlights 50:00 – Final thoughts & career reflections
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 10) | Helicopter Stunts, M60 Rampage & Village Carnage
ListenedJoin host Ryan and special guest Tim (Round 14 Podcast) for a detailed scene-by-scene breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II. They discuss the insane helicopter stunts, mud camouflage, explosive arrow kills, Russian hand-to-hand combat, village destruction, the iconic M60 one-handed rampage, and why the practical effects still hold up decades later. Tim shares his long-time Rambo fandom and they compare notes on Sly Stallone’s action style, military themes, and 80s filmmaking magic. 0:29 – Intro & guest Tim 16:53 – Helicopter boarding & Russian fight 24:52 – Helicopter duel & village attack 29:53 – M60 rampage & chaos 42:09 – Helicopter chase & model explosion 49:40 – Bazooka finish & final escape
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 9) | Helicopter Jump & Bazooka Mayhem
ListenedJoin host Ryan and special guest Adrian (Arcade Attack Podcast) for a detailed scene-by-scene breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II. They discuss the intense helicopter stunts, mud camouflage, explosive arrow kills, Russian hand-to-hand combat, village destruction, M60 one-handed rampage, and the practical effects that still hold up today. Adrian shares his Rambo fandom, they compare notes on Sly Stallone’s action style, and appreciate the raw 80s filmmaking without CGI. 0:29 – Intro & guest Adrian 16:53 – Helicopter boarding stunt 24:52 – Russian helicopter duel 29:53 – Village destruction & missile barrage 33:30 – Rambo grabs the M60 42:09 – Helicopter chase & model explosion 49:40 – Bazooka finish & final escape
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 8) | Rampage Breakdown – Mud, Arrows & Explosions
ListenedRyan sits down with **Robert Bruzio**, screenwriter of the underdog baseball drama **Bottom of the Ninth** starring Joe Manganiello. They discuss the film's journey, Rocky connections (John G. Avildsen, Bert Young, Sly Stallone), working on the set of Rocky Balboa, and the passion behind telling redemption stories. Robert shares incredible stories about cold-calling legends, Italian-American themes, and what it’s like to see your words come to life on screen. 0:00 – Intro & Robert Bruzio welcome 2:55 – Bottom of the Ninth background & Joe Manganiello 9:12 – Rocky connections & John Avildsen 13:12 – Meeting Sly Stallone on Rocky Balboa set 18:14 – Writing process & underdog themes 23:32 – Rambo First Blood Part 2 discussion 29:48 – Final thoughts & upcoming projects
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 7) - Escape Sequence, Helicopter Chase & Co's Death
ListenedJames Rolfe (Angry Video Game Nerd / Cinemassacre) returns to It's a Long Road for a deep dive into Rambo: First Blood Part II! We break down the brutal torture sequence (real leeches, hot knife, electric shocks), the legendary mic crush "Murdoch... I'm coming to get you" moment, Co's shocking death, Stallone's insane physique & practical 80s effects, helicopter chases, Russian villains, and why this sequel unleashes pure one-man-army action. Plus nostalgia talk, Rocky comparisons, Saturday morning cartoons, and James's thoughts on Rambo vs. Rocky legacy. A fun, nerdy chat with one of YouTube's legends – if you're into Stallone, 80s action, or AVGN-style breakdowns, this one's for you!
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 6) - From Mud Pit to Mic Crush
ListenedJoin host Ryan Rebalkin and special guest Walter Beneziak (Channel Awesome, FanScription, Nostalgia Critic contributor) for an in-depth breakdown of Rambo: First Blood Part II! We dive into the intense torture sequence, Stallone's insane physical dedication (real leeches, hot knife effects, and peak 80s flexing), the mic crush "I'm coming to get you" moment, Russian villains, POW camp escapes, and how the film differs from David Morrell's novel. Plus Stallone discoveries, practical 1985 effects, and why this sequel unleashes Rambo like never before. If you're a Stallone fan, Rambo lover, or just into 80s action lore, this episode is packed with insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and fun headcanon debates!
Bloodsport - Is JCVD's Classic Still a Banger in 2026?
ListenedEver wondered if Jean-Claude Van Damme's 1988 martial arts masterpiece Bloodsport still holds up? Kyle watches it completely blind for the first time while Ryan relives his teenage obsession with endless VHS rewatches. We break down the insane splits, brutal Kumite fights, Chong Li's villain energy, Ray Jackson's biker charm, that legendary training montage, and the shocking "true story" claim at the end (spoiler: it's wild). From nostalgic highs to 2026 reality checks, we talk cult status, 80s cheese, questionable plot logic, Hong Kong filming locations, and why this low-budget gem made $65M on $2M. Plus first-time wife reactions, splits drinking game potential, and way too much love for the sweeper guy. If you grew up on Van Damme or just love tournament-style action flicks, this one's for you!
Death Race 2000 - Sylvester Stallone's Wild Villain Debut!
ListenedJoin the Stallone Podcast Network crossover as hosts from Rocky Minute (Doug), Sly Cast (Craig), and Going the Distance / One More Round (Ryan) dive into the cult classic Death Race 2000 (1975)! In a dystopian 2000 where the Transcontinental Road Race scores points for running over pedestrians (toddlers = 70, elders = 100!), we break down Roger Corman's satirical grindhouse gem: Stallone's scene-stealing villain Machine Gun Joe Viterbo (pre-Rocky star power!), David Carradine's masked Frankenstein, Nazi drivers, fake tunnels, landmine kills, and the hilarious tone clash (comedy vs. grit tug-of-war between director Paul Bartel and Corman). We react to key moments (grenade hand reveal, pit stop absurdity, rebel sabotage, and that ending twist), discuss Stallone's charisma as a bad guy, why it's endlessly rewatchable, and how it predicted drone tech and reality TV violence. Plus, laughs over YouTube complainers wanting free streams, point system debates, and why this low-budget B-movie is pure fun.
Get Carter - Sylvester Stallone's Forgotten Revenge Flick
ListenedJoin the Stallone Podcast Network crossover special as hosts from Rocky Minute, Sly Cast, and Going the Distance / One More Round unite to dissect Sylvester Stallone's 2000 remake Get Carter! We dive into why this revenge thriller (with Michael Caine reprising his iconic role, Mickey Rourke's shady Cyrus, Alan Cumming's golf metaphors, and that infamous goatee) promised so much but delivered frustration: mismatched tone, dated early-2000s editing, low body count, weird soundtrack, and wasted potential for a dark Stallone anti-hero rampage. Hear our first-watch memories (theater excitement vs. 20-year revisit disappointment), the Michael Caine cameo that grew into the big twist, Rourke's "still pretty" scene, the elevator fight nod to Rocky, body-shaming lines, and why it earned Razzies nominations. Plus, laughs over the "cat piss in the snow" callback, Franchise Pictures drama, and Stallone's post-Cop Land career dip. Was it ahead of its time, or just a mess? Who's the MVP: Sly, Caine, or Rourke?
Rocky II (Episode 2) - Zoo Proposal Magic, Wedding Bells & Tulsa King Reactions
ListenedDive deeper into Rocky II (1979) on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast Season 2! We break down the heartfelt post-hospital moments: Rocky's fresh air freedom, quirky commercial pitches, the snowy zoo proposal (with that Bengal tiger cameo), the intimate Catholic wedding ceremony, and the sweet newlywed vibes. Hear our thoughts on why the zoo choice is iconic (or hilariously ironic), Adrian's beautiful dress, Father Carmine's Italian vows, Paulie's "proper busting" jokes, and Rocky's innocent take on marriage (no hair in the sink!). Plus, fresh reactions to the first three episodes of Tulsa King—Sly's high limo scene, world-building with Bodhi and Tyson, edgy old-school charm, and why this feels tailor-made for Stallone. We chat Patreon perks (raw uncut Discord uploads, Tulsa King watch-alongs for $1/month), bear-proof garbage latches, and why Kyle's sitting this one out (Mr. Mom duties!).
Rocky II (Episode 1) - Hospital Rematch Drama, Tulsa King Reactions & Sly News!
ListenedDive into the heart-pounding start of Season 2 of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast! We’re back and more excited than ever to relive the Rocky saga, beginning with the underrated powerhouse that is Rocky II (1979). Expect heated debates on the hospital rematch chaos, Apollo's epic trolling, Rocky's "lucky" shots, brain damage concerns, and why this sequel might just be the most underappreciated in the franchise. We kick things off with fresh Sly Stallone updates—including reactions to the first episodes of Tulsa King (Sly looks sharp in that suit!), rumors about Rambo/Rocky prequels, Creed 4 possibilities, and Jonathan Majors' intense prep for Creed 3. Plus, we launch our Bum Count predictions for Rocky II, drop tough trivia questions (Mickey's training minutes, robe colors, and more), and share laughs over continuity quirks, Paulie's peak form, and why the domestic drama hits harder now. Whether you're a die-hard fan revisiting the Italian Stallion's journey or new to the series, this episode teases…
Rocky (Episode 18) - The Full Fight Breakdown – "No Rematch!"
ListenedThe Season 1 finale of One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast is here! We break down the legendary Rocky vs. Apollo Creed fight—from the shocking first-round knockdown, brutal body shots, rope-a-dope moments, and rib-cracking drama to Rocky's true goal: going the distance. We discuss inspirations from the real Ali-Wepner fight, Mickey's "stay down," Apollo's panic, the "no rematch" line, and that emotional Adrian reunion. Plus, fan emails on cinematography, editing tricks (doubled punches!), bum counts finale, and why this ending feels perfect—no sequels needed (but thank goodness they happened). If you're a Rocky fan, this emotional close-out hits hard.
Rocky (Episode 17) - Trailer Talk, Imposter Syndrome & That Famous Steps Climb
ListenedDive into the heart of Rocky with hosts Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on One More Round: The Rocky Series Podcast! We react to the Creed 3 trailer (predictable but Jonathan Majors steals it?), discuss why Sly's absence might mean a time jump (or worse?), and break down the legendary training montage—from sunrise jogs and meat punching to one-arm push-ups and the iconic Philadelphia steps run. Plus, the emotional peak: Rocky's vulnerable "I can't beat him" confession to Adrian, where he redefines success as simply going the distance. This isn't just about winning—it's about proving you're more than "just another bum from the neighborhood." We cover fun trivia (reverse-filmed steps dance, wrong shorts on the banner!), behind-the-scenes stories, and why this scene makes Rocky timeless. If you're a Rocky fan, this episode hits hard with analysis, laughs, and inspiration.
Rocky (Episode 16) - Drunk Paulie and his Virginity Obsession!
ListenedJoin hosts Ryan, Katie, and Kyle on The Rocky Series Podcast as they unpack one of the most intense family moments in Rocky history. Things get heated when Paulie comes home drunk on Thanksgiving, leading to raw confrontations, shocking lines, and Adrian finally standing her ground. We dive into Paulie's darker side, his obsession with "purity," that unforgettable "You're busted!" moment, and why this scene shows Rocky is way more than just boxing. We also cover Stallone's real-life reconciliation news (right after we recorded divorce talk—talk about timing!), real leeches in Rambo (confirmed by a Sly friend!), bum counts, and the final trivia showdown for Rocky 1—who wins the scorecard? Expect laughs, deep analysis of family dynamics, acting breakdowns (Talia Shire and Burt Young shine), and holiday vibes clashing with chaos. If you're a Rocky fan, you won't want to miss this emotional rollercoaster.
Escape Plan: The Extractors - Revenge, Robots, and Regrets
ListenedRyan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) dissect this low-budget ($3.6M) revenge thriller, praising brutal kills, Max Zhang's standout martial arts, Dave Bautista's indestructible rampage, and Sly's Rambo-esque fury, while slamming convoluted plots, sloppy editing, illogical traps (exploding mines?), generic villains, and baffling choices like the spinning prison nod from Part 2. Better than Hades (25% on Rotten Tomatoes vs. 7%), but still a forgettable VOD slog with graphic violence, shaky fights, and zero spark. Highlights: Jin Zhang's choreography and Sly's throat-slit finale. Perfect for die-hards craving gritty '80s vibes, but skip if you want the original's cleverness.
Escape Plan 2: Hades - This Film Failed Stallone & Bautista
ListenedHosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) brave this fan-voted disaster, unpacking Ray Breslin's return to a high-tech hellhole prison run by a fired protégé, complete with convoluted plots, baffling "algorithm" rants, robotic doctors, spinning rooms, and martial arts shifts aimed at the Chinese market. They roast the bait-and-switch billing (Stallone and Dave Bautista barely share scenes), shaky editing, illogical twists (a massive underground facility beneath an Atlanta church?), generic villains, and Stallone's limited screentime amid bad CGI and zero chemistry. Highlights include Huang Xiaoming's solid fights, Titus Welliver's wasted "Zookeeper," and absurd moments like the fallout boy cameo. With a dismal 7% on Rotten Tomatoes and a box office loss ($18M gross on $20M budget), this China-financed mess proves even icons can't escape bad scripts.
Escape Plan - It Proves Stallone & Arnie Still Rule Action!
ListenedHosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Craig (SlyCast), and Doug (Rocky Minute) reunite for this fan-voted crossover, breaking down Ray Breslin's genius escapes, the clever twists (including Rottmayer's secret identity), Arnold's standout performance with killer one-liners and machine-gun mayhem, and Sly's MacGyver-level smarts. They geek out over the clever opening sequence, the ship reveal's ingenuity, fun nods to classic action tropes, and supporting turns from Jim Caviezel, 50 Cent, and Sam Neill, while nitpicking flaws like over-the-top tech, plot holes, and underwhelming villain payoffs. Despite mixed reviews (49% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a modest domestic box office, this $137M global earner delivers solid '80s-style thrills with modern twists, proving these icons still pack a punch.
The Lords of Flatbush - Our Fans Forced Us to Suffer Through This
ListenedJoin hosts Ryan (Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Doug (Rocky Minute), and Craig (Slycast) as they suffer through a fan-voted deep dive into Stallone's early role as Stanley, the tough-but-vulnerable gang member navigating pregnancy scares, stolen cars, awkward dates, and zero character arcs. The crew rips apart the film's terrible soundtrack, out-of-focus shots, forced acting, endless dead air, and baffling plot holes, like why these 28-year-olds pass as high schoolers, the pointless subplots, and that infamous Richard Gere firing story involving mustard and hot dogs. Highlights include early Rocky vibes (pigeon coop monologues, animal talks), Godfather wedding rip-offs, and savage rants on why this forgettable flick is "absolute garbage" despite its cult status. If you're a die-hard Sly fan curious about his origins, or just love hearing podcasters in pain, this brutally honest crossover roast delivers laughs, frustration, and Rocky connections you won't forget.
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 5) - Helicopter Abandonment and Real Leeches
ListenedHost Ryan reunites with returning guest John Rivoli, Sylvester Stallone’s official Rocky and Rambo artist, for a hilarious and insight-packed deep dive into the infamous helicopter betrayal and POW rescue attempt in Rambo: First Blood Part II. From real leeches to a terrifying ex-con Russian henchman who once stalked Sly in Beverly Hills, plus behind-the-scenes bombshells about deleted scenes, novelization secrets, and whether Rambo’s still a virgin—this episode is pure 80s adrenaline with exclusive Stallone stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 4) - Psychologist Unlocks Hidden Pain and Power
ListenedRyan welcomes UK listener-turned-guest John, a psychology enthusiast with real insight into trauma and the human mind, as they dive deep into the heart-pounding prison camp infiltration of Rambo: First Blood Part II. From Rambo’s silent bow kills and explosive-arrow stealth to that heartbreakingly tender “You’re not expendable” moment with Co, they unpack the raw vulnerability beneath the muscle, the adrenaline-fueled defense mechanisms of PTSD, and why Rambo’s quiet fragility hits harder than any body count. It’s the ultimate blend of ’80s action mayhem and real psychological firepower
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 3) - Explosive Arrows and Expendable Hearts
ListenedDive back into the jungle with host Ryan and legendary Stallone documentarian Derek Wayne Johnson as they break down the steamy, sweaty early moments of Rambo: First Blood Part II – from Rambo’s botched drop zone and explosive-arrow memories to Co’s unforgettable introduction, pirate river boats, and that intimate “expendable” chat that still hits hard. Derek shares wild behind-the-scenes stories, from holding an actual screen-used Rambo II arrow at Frank Stallone’s house to his secret Rocky IV location tour with James Rolfe (AVGN), plus updates on upcoming projects and candid thoughts on Sly’s recent frustrations. It’s a love letter to ’80s action excess and the man who made green berets cool again.
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 2) - Suiting Up Montage and Parachute Chaos
ListenedRyan and Sean (host of the Dolph Lundgren career-deep-dive podcast *I Must Break This*) continue Season 2 with the explosive sequel that turned John Rambo from troubled vet into the ultimate one-man army. The guys go scene-by-scene through Rambo’s mission briefing, the legendary “suiting-up” montage, the botched parachute drop, and the moment the movie fully unleashes the larger-than-life Rambo we all grew up worshipping. Whether you’re here for the muscle porn, the bureaucracy-busting rage, or just nostalgia for when action heroes were our real-life superheroes, this episode is 80s action comfort food with detailed commentary.
Rambo: First Blood Part II - (Episode 1) - From Prison Rocks to Helicopter Drops
ListenedIn the season two premiere of the "It's a Long Road: The Rambo Series" podcast, host Ryan welcomes guest Jack from the "Drunk Bond" podcast to dissect Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), kicking off with lighthearted banter about podcasting compliments, the hosts' shared love for Sylvester Stallone's Rocky and Rambo franchises, and Jack's irreverent yet respectful breakdowns of action classics. They dive into the film's explosive opening, Rambo's prison labor release by Colonel Trautman for a covert Vietnam recon mission to photograph POWs, and early character introductions, while riffing on confusing franchise titles, Stallone's peak physique, box office inflation ($750–800 million in today's dollars), screenplay credits (Stallone, James Cameron, Kevin Jarre), and director George P. Cosmatos's hands-off approach amid Sly's 1980s superstardom—celebrating the sequel's over-the-top action shift from the original's dramatic depth as a fun, nostalgic 1980s beast.
First Blood - (Episode 12) - PTSD Monologue
ListenedRyan teams up with guest co-hosts Tim and Tony from the Round 14 Podcast—dedicated enthusiasts of Sylvester Stallone's iconic Rocky saga—for a high-octane breakdown of the film's climactic church standoff, Rambo's raw emotional monologue, and the cathartic resolution between the tormented veteran and a sympathetic yet beleaguered Sheriff Teasle. Blending sharp analysis of Brian Dennehy's standout performance as Teasle, Richard Crenna's paternal gravitas as Colonel Trautman, and Stallone's understated vulnerability that elevates the anti-hero from feral survivor to tragic everyman, the trio delves into the film's anti-war themes, practical stunts like the harrowing helicopter crash, and Jerry Goldsmith's pulsating score that underscores Rambo's descent into PTSD-fueled rage. Peppered with Round 14's signature banter on Stallone's chiseled '80s physique, crossovers between Rambo's grit and Rocky's resilience, and lighthearted asides on Vietnam-era politics, the episode wraps the inaugural film with heartfelt…
First Blood - (Episode 11) - Mine Escape to Town Destruction
ListenedRyan welcomes Bob and Zip from the "No Redeeming Qualities" podcast to dissect a key action sequence from First Blood (1982), where John Rambo escapes a mine shaft, hijacks a National Guard truck, and unleashes chaos on a small town through daring stunts, explosions, and pursuits, all while the hosts intersperse humorous tangents on Stallone's physique, the book's darker violence, Italian heritage, and podcast crossovers.
Expend4bles (The Expendables 4) - CGI Catastrophe!
ListenedIn another Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network crossover, hosts Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance, Craig Cohen of Slycast, and Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute reluctantly dissect The Expendables 4 (aka Expend4bles, 2023), Scott Waugh's underwhelming R-rated swan song that squanders a $100M budget on PlayStation 2-level CGI boats, forgettable ship-bound climax, and charisma-vacuum newcomers like Megan Fox's abrasive Gina and 50 Cent's placeholder Easy Day. The trio mourns the franchise's faded glory—praising Jason Statham's elevated Lee Christmas lead, Tony Jaa's disciplined fighter, and fleeting OG chemistry with Stallone's four-day cameo and Dolph Lundgren's aged Gunner—while eviscerating phoned-in villains (Iko Uwais' Rahmat, Andy Garcia's Ocelot), choppy AI-like banter, zero stakes, and passionless filmmaking that prioritizes F-bombs over practical '80s-style explosions, deeming it a fine-but-forgettable misfire that killed the series despite meta nods and martial arts flair.
The Expendables 3 - Mel Gibson's Revenge!
ListenedIn a rollicking Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network crossover, hosts Craig Cohen of Slycast, Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute, and Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance team up to eviscerate and occasionally defend The Expendables 3 (2014), Patrick Hughes' PG-13 pivot that swaps brutal R-rated gore for broader appeal, introducing fresh blood like Wesley Snipes' Doc, Antonio Banderas' chatterbox Galgo, and Harrison Ford's gruff Church replacement while benching Bruce Willis amid salary disputes. The panel raves over Mel Gibson's magnetic Conrad Stonebanks as a betrayed co-founder turned arms-dealing menace, Snipes' tax-evasion quips and knife flair, and Banderas' scene-stealing energy, but lambasts the toned-down violence, convoluted Somalia skyscraper finale, forgettable young recruits (Ronda Rousey, Kellan Lutz), and Stallone's directorial absence, ultimately deeming it a flawed yet watchable franchise low with standout villainy and meta nods that still honors '80s excess despite corporate meddling.
The Expendables 2 - Van Damme Steals the Show!
ListenedIn a high-octane crossover episode from the Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network, hosts Ryan Rebalkin of Going The Distance, Craig Cohen of Slycast, and Doug Greenberg of Rocky Minute reunite to dissect The Expendables 2 (2012), the Simon West-directed sequel that amps up the '80s action homage with relentless set pieces, meta quips, and an all-star mercenary ensemble led by Stallone's Barney Ross. The trio celebrates the film's non-stop gunfire, explosive Nepal rescue opener, and villainous tour-de-force by Jean-Claude Van Damme as Vilain, while critiquing tonal shifts toward goofiness, underdeveloped newbies like Liam Hemsworth's Billy, and scheduling quirks that sidelined Jet Li; they laud Van Damme's scene-stealing improv, Jason Statham's priest-disguised brawls, and cameos from Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, and a meme-spouting Chuck Norris, ultimately hailing it as a fun, fan-service thrill ride that grossed $300 million despite minor script flaws in dialogue and realism.