Shows
The Problematic Gaze'Cabaret' Film Musical from 1972 PRIDE MONTH SPECIALPRIDE MONTH SPECIAL Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. Continuing our Pride Month special curation, we watch the celebrated, Academy Award winning film musical Cabaret. Starring Liza Minelli and Michael York and Joel Grey, the film celebrates the decadence of early 1930's Berlin, in all its LGBTQIA+ glory, amidst a backdrop of looming fascism. The film is ever more prescient, given the current political climate in Europe and the USA.Click here to wa...2025-06-2440 minThe Problematic Gaze'But I'm A Cheerleader' US Comedy Film from '1999' PRIDE MONTH SPECIALPRIDE MONTH SPECIAL Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. Continuing our Pride Month special curation, we watch the cult LGBT+ comedy film 'But I'm A Cheerleader' starring Natasha Lyonne, Clea DuVall, Rupaul, and Cathy Moriarty. Megan Bloomfield is a lesbian in denial, and is sent away to be 'cured'. We also look at the history of conversion therapy. Can you turn, and ultimately 'un-turn' gay? If you want to watch 'But, I'm A...2025-06-1742 minThe Problematic Gaze'Paris Is Burning' American Documentary Film from 1990. PRIDE MONTH SPECIALPRIDE MONTH SPECIAL Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. Continuing our Pride Month special curation, we watch the critically acclaimed US documentary Paris Is Burning from 1990. Set in New York during the late 80's, it follows the lives of a number of characters associated with the New York Ballroom scene. Loud and unashamedly proud, it explores how a marginalised subculture found escape and refuge in the fabulous and fierce world of catwalks, competition, high fashion an...2025-06-1055 minThe Problematic Gaze'Gay Life' UK TV Magazine Show from 1980. PRIDE MONTH SPECIALPRIDE MONTH SPECIAL Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we kick start our special month of shows, curated to celebrate Pride Month. We take a look at a pioneering magazine show, first broadcast in the UK in 1980. We visit Heaven Nightclub and The Royal Vauxhall Tavern in London. We watch interviews with Drag Queens, Leather Queens and everyone in between. Filmed before the AIDS epidemic, this programme offers a unique insight into the li...2025-06-0358 minThe Problematic Gaze'Brass Eye' UK Satirical TV Show from 1997. Drugs and fake Cake.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we take a look at the controversial satirical UK TV show from 1997. Focusing on drugs, the team look at the explosion of new synthetic drug Cake on UK streets and the effects it has on 90's youth. But is all as it seems? And what has Claire Rayner got to say about it?If you want to watch our chosen episode of Brass Eye, the UK...2025-05-2740 min
The BookshelfSydney Writers' Festival: Top 100 Books launched with Alan Hollinghurst, Catherine Chidgey, Mariana Enriquez, Afra AtiqLive from Sydney Writers' Festival, and with an introduction by Emirate poet Afra Atiq, we bring together guests Catherine Chidgey, Mariana Enriquez and Alan Hollinghurst to discuss the most influential works in both fiction and non-fiction. From gripping novels that have captured our imaginations to thought-provoking non-fiction that has reshaped our understanding of the world, this event will celebrate the literary achievements that have defined the past quarter-century.BOOKS MENTIONEDALAN HOLLINGHURSTAlice Munro, Runaway David Szalay, All That Man Is Peter Carey, True History of the Kelly Gang Bryan Washington, Lot Claire Keegan, Small Things Like...2025-05-2355 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Stud' British Film from 1978. Joan Collins, Sex, Swings and SohoGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we enter the sleazy world of 1970's London to visit Hobo, the hip and happening Soho nightclub where we encounter Tony, our eponymous 'hero' and Fontaine Khaled, played by the magnificent Joan Collins. Is this an innocent erotic romp, or does it harbour more sinister observations on the sexual politics of the seedy Soho set and their rich, upper class overlords?If you want to wat...2025-05-2050 minThe Problematic Gaze'Blind Date' UK Gameshow from 1996. Cilla Black, Our Graham and a Lorra Lorra LaughsGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week join us on as we dive into shiny floor UK gameshow Blind Date fronted by singer, presenter and icon Cilla Black. A staple of UK TV for 18 years from the 80's to the 00's, follow plucky romantics in their search for love. In 1996, were the cracks beginning to show? What can the contestants tell us about the murmurings of reality TV that was to follow. And if yo...2025-05-1355 minThe Problematic Gaze'Prisoner: Cell Block H' Australian Soap Opera from 1982. Top Dogs and Black Leather GlovesGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week join us on our inaugural Antipodean voyage as we bask in the glory of Prisoner: Cell Block H. Considered a pioneering soap opera from Australia, the female inmates of Wentworth Detention Centre garnered fans spanning the entire globe. Our telly Tardis lands in 1982 and we focus on an episode widely considered a classic. Featuring a showdown between two titans of the show, top dog Bea Smith and sa...2025-05-0655 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Royle Family' UK comedy from 2000. Ciggies, Chippy and FuneralsGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we jump in the telly TARDIS and cast our Gaze over the classic UK sitcom 'The Royle Family' from 2000. Not a crown, throne or palace in sight, this is the family that captures the true meaning of family, namely warmth, love and bickering. Nana's friend Elsie has died, and Barbara can wait to get her hands on her lovely set of saucepans. And the UK tradition of Chip...2025-04-2947 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Wicker Man' from 1973. Virgins, Vegetation and Fiery SacrificeGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we jump in the telly TARDIS and cast our Gaze over the seminal horror classic 'The Wicker Man' from 1973. Join Edward Woodward on a trip to the verdant Scottish island of Summerisle where all is not what it seems. Paganism, sacrifice and turquoise beans. It's all here.Click here to follow us on all our socialsPlease leave us a review wherever you get...2025-04-2250 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Year Of The Sex Olympics' BBC drama from 1968. Sex, Reality and RatingsGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week, as a follow up to last weeks celebration of Celebrity Big Brother, we jump in the telly TARDIS and cast our Gaze over BBC drama 'The Year Of The Sex Olympics' from 1968. Viewed as a classic due to its stark foretelling of the rise of the reality show and a satire on sensationalist television and the media, what can this drama tell us about our society in 2025. In...2025-04-1534 minThe Problematic Gaze'Celebrity Big Brother' Featuring Davina McCall and our wonderful Gazers!Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week, as the latest series of Celebrity Big Brother starts on ITV in the UK, we called out to our Gazers to tell us their favourite Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother moments from the last twenty five years. And who should drop us a line but Big Mother herself Davina McCall! From Nasty Nick to Kim Woodburn, from 'Who Is She!' to 'David's Dead!', relive th...2025-04-0843 minThe Problematic Gaze'Nighty Night' UK Dark Comedy from 2004. Cancer, Asthma and Backless Chaps!Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we cast our Gaze over the 2004 UK sitcom Nighty Night, written by and starring the wondrous Julia Davis. Follow the sex starved Jill as she prepares to take full advantage of her husband's terminal illness. Co-starring a veritable who's who of UK comedy talent, this comedy pushes the boundaries of taste and morality. Needless to say, we LOVE it!!Click here to watch Nighty Night on...2025-04-0139 minThe Problematic Gaze'Mommie Dearest' from 1981. Faye Dunaway, Wire Hangers and Camp ClassicsGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we cast our Gaze over the 1981 film 'Mommie Dearest' starring Faye Dunaway. Much derided by critics and viewers alike upon its release, it has since become a cult camp classic, deeply embedded in gay culture. But do the harrowing scenes of abuse lie easily alongside the fantastically colourful scenes of Hollywood glamour? Just how true is this story? And why you would NEVER want to get into a f...2025-03-2551 minThe Problematic Gaze'Reservoir Dogs' from 1993. Blood, Guns, Severed Ears and Masculinity in the '90's.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we take a look at Quentin Tarantino's directorial debut Reservoir Dogs (released in the UK in January 1993). Controversial upon its original release for its ultra-violent style and bad language, what can this film tell us about the portrayal of masculinity in movies? Did you see the cops ear getting cut off? Think again! And what happens when a tricky actor walks onto set?Yo...2025-03-1855 minThe Problematic Gaze'Rita, Sue and Bob Too' UK Film from 1987. Sex, Schoolgirls and Dirty Old MenGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. This week we zoom back to 1987 for a gritty, comedic snapshot of life in a northern town. Controversial upon release, Rita, Sue and Bob Too sees an older married man embark on a seedy affair with two schoolgirls. This sordid premise gives way to a wry and thought provoking observation on life in Thatcher's Britain. So titivate your mullets and join us at the working men's club for a g...2025-03-1158 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Substance'. Horror film from 2024. Demi Moore, Oscar Buzz and Ageing in the World of Entertainment.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. Fresh from awards season, we cast our Gaze on the body horror film 'The Substance'. Featuring an Oscar nominated turn from Demi Moore, this film has a lot to say about Hollywood and the pressure to stay young and relevant. If you had the chance to do it all again, would you? And what price would you be prepared to pay?Click here to watch s...2025-03-0440 minThe Problematic Gaze'The BRIT Awards' Most Controversial Moments. From Michael Jackson to Bananarama. From Stormzy to Madonna.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. The BRIT Awards 2025, the UK equivalent to the Grammy's, will be broadcast this Saturday 1st March. To celebrate, we take a look at some of the most controversial events in BRITs history. From Stormzy to Bananrama. From Sam Fox to Madonna. It's all here. Just one question..... Has anyone seen 'Charlie'?Click here to watch be taken to our YouTube Playlist of controversial BRITs moments w...2025-02-2549 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Naked Civil Servant' from 1975. Celebrating LGBT+ History MonthGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear. February marks LGBT+ History month in the UK. To celebrate we focus our Gaze on the landmark film 'The Naked Civil Servant' from 1975. Starring John Hurt in his BAFTA winning title role, this was a pioneering film, charting the life of the bold, courageous and unapologetic LGBT trailblazer Quentin Crisp. We also chart the progression of gay rights throughout the 1970's in Britain. Click here to...2025-02-1858 minThe Problematic Gaze'Bridget Jones's Diary' from 2001. Cigarettes and Chardonnay with Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Colin FirthGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. As the fourth instalment of the Bridget Jones series 'Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy' is released worldwide, we cast out gaze back to 2001 and discuss the first film 'Bridget Jones's Diary.' Just what makes Bridget Jones, played by Renee Zellweger, such a well loved, endearing character? And what can the first film tell us about the cultural landscape at the turn of...2025-02-1152 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Comeback' US TV Comedy from 2005. Plus Demi Moore and Pamela Anderson's recent comebacks.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over 'The Comeback' from 2005. What does this satire starring Lisa Kudrow tell us about the treatment of women in the entertainment industry? And we chat about the recent comebacks of actors like Demi Moore, Pamela Anderson and Cameron Diaz?You can watch The Comeback on Sky TV, Now TV, Apple, Amazon Prime and Youtube in t...2025-02-0442 minThe Problematic Gaze'Till Death Us Do Part' UK TV Sitcom from 1967. Empire, Politics and the 60's Revolution.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over controversial UK sitcom 'Till Death Us Do Part'. A moment of popular culture that continues to be divisive to this very day. The character of Alf Garnett holds controversial opinions on immigration, empire, monarchy and politics. Was this satire or far right propaganda on the BBC? With the political climate in the UK and across the g...2025-01-2845 minThe Problematic Gaze'Cruising' movie from 1980. Sex, slings and murder. New York and the Gay Underground Scene.Greetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over controversial US film 'Cruising' from 1980. Directed by William Friedkin and starring Al Pacino, the film drew protests during filming from members of the gay community unhappy with the films depiction of the underground leather scene. Were the protests justified? Listen to find out more! AND PLEASE BE AWARE, THIS PODCAST CONTAINS SOME PRETTY EXPLICIT LANGUAGE AND T...2025-01-211h 05The Problematic Gaze'The Girlie Show' UK Chat Show from 1997. Ladettes, Lads and cynical marketingGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over late night delight 'The Girlie Show' from 1997. Inspired by the phenomenon of 'Ladette' culture in the UK, which in itself was a response to 'Lad' cutlture, which in itself was a response to the 'New Man'...... Phew!!! It's complicated and quite possibly all a cynical marketing ploy. What can The Girlie Show tell women about how t...2025-01-1440 minThe Problematic Gaze'Grease' Movie Musical from 1978. T-Birds, Pink Ladies, Sex and Slut ShamingGreetings from PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over high school musical 'Grease' from 1978. The Travolta phenomenon steps up a gear and Olivia Newton John hops aboard. Many a teen girls and gays favourite. Euphoric, innocent fun? Or perhaps a darker representation of teens, cultural morals and gender roles. Also, Dr Lee bursts Dave's 'fake it till you make it bubble'. And just w...2025-01-071h 11The Problematic Gaze'The Gaze Year In Review' A look back at our first year in podcasting! Feminism, LGBT representation, toxic masculinity, Shakey and Love Actually!Happy New Year from all at PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we pause our usual format to reflect on our first year as The Problematic Gaze. What a year it's been at PG Towers! What have we learned since first dipping our toes in the podcasting pond? And what does the future hold?Also, we announce the PG Towers roll of honour as Dave polishes off t...2024-12-3127 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Holiday'. Christmas Film from 2006. Kate, Cameron, Jack and Jude.Merry Christmas from all at PG Towers! Join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we crack open the wine (and the Christmas Sherry) and plunge head first into Jude Law! Well, we watch The Holiday from 2006. Listen as Dave digs deep into Dr Lee's cold, withered heart to try and extract a modicum of romance. Also, just what is 'Black Eye Friday?' You can watch The Holiday f...2024-12-2430 minThe Problematic Gaze'Aladdin & The 40 Thieves' BBC Pantomime from 1984Direct from PG Towers, join social historian Dr Lee Arnott and TV Producer Dave Moor for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the BBC TV Panto 'Aladdin & The 40 Thieves' from New Years Day 1984. Featuring a Who's Who of 80's TV personalities from the world of light entertainment including Floella Benjamin, Sarah Greene and Kenneth Williams to name but a few. This panto was what the term 'cultural appropriation' was invented for. But can this stop our enjoyment of t...2024-12-1745 minThe Problematic Gaze'Do They Know It's Christmas?' by Band Aid from 1984. Will there be snow in Africa? Yes, actually.Direct from PG Towers, join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic festive song 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' from 1984. This is what The Problematic Gaze was created for. We dissect the lyrics of this song and analyse why they have since been regarded controversial. We also watch the video for the song, a fascinating snapshot of the 'mostly male' 80's music landscape.Also, Lee is about to have a...2024-12-1043 min
The Booklover BanterBooklover Bumper Episode: 2024 Wrapped!This is a bumper episode where we reflect on the year that was 2024. Hear about our top ten bestsellers, our favourite books, the highlights, the challenges and the joys of being booksellers. There's laughing, there's screaming, there's Christmas lights and music and...well, cockroaches.Books mentioned in this episode:Place of Tides by James RebanksTable for Two by Amor TowlesTell Me Everything by Elizabeth StroutAll the Colours of the Dark by Chris WhitakerTomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle ZevinDusk...2024-12-031h 09The Problematic Gaze'Educating Rita' from 1983. 'There must be better songs to sing than this!'Direct from PG Towers, join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic British film 'Educating Rita' from 1983, starring Julie Walters and Michael Caine. Touching on patriarchal expectations on women, class and education, there's plenty in this film to gaze upon.Also, Dave's onions are slowly pickling. And will Dr Lee be having a 'Mary' Christmas?Click here to watch 'Educating Rita' on YouTubePlease leave us a r...2024-12-0342 minThe Problematic Gaze'Doctor Who - City Of Death' from 1979. Mona Lisas, Green Wormy Monsters and Paris High JinksJoin Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic series of Doctor Who with the story 'City Of Death' from Season 17. Join Lee''s favourite Doctor, Tom Baker, and his assistant Romana (in questionable schoolgirl attire) for a campy romp around Paris.Also, Christmas Party season has started! And is death by rhubarb a thing?Click here to watch 'Doctor Who - City Of Death' on BBC iPlayer.Please l...2024-11-2652 minThe Problematic Gaze'Friends' US Sitcom from 2001. Speeding tickets, pink knickers and Kathleen TurnerJoin Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic US sitcom 'Friends'. Chandler meets his 'Dad', Ross and Rachel go for a drive, and Joey has underwear issues. How does Friends stand up to a modern lens? Also, who has severely depleted Dave's rum stock? And we take a deep dive into Lee's drag bag!You can watch Friends Season 7 Episode 22 on Netflix in the UKPlease leave u...2024-11-2248 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie' British film from 1969. Maggie Smith, Girls and MussoliniJoin Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic British film "The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie", starring Maggie Smith in an Oscar winning turn. Is Jean Brodie a romantic heroine or deluded egomaniac? One things for sure, she'd better watch her back. Her 'girls' are about to turn.Also, Dave and Lee dive into their bulging sack, of Gazers emails. And just what has Dave left in the back of his Zo...2024-11-1248 minThe Problematic Gaze'Fawlty Towers: The Germans' from 1975: Torquay, we have a MAJOR problem!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the classic British sitcom Fawlty Towers, and focus on an episode from 1975 called 'The Germans'. Controversial in recent years for its use of racist language, this episode was removed from several platforms. Do the antics of Basil, Sybil, Polly and Manuel hold up through a modern lens?Also, PG Towers is positively aglow from fibre optic and Hello Pierre! What's your real name and where d...2024-11-0544 minThe Problematic Gaze'An American Werewolf In London' from 1981. Nurses, Curses and Piccadilly Circus!!!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, in celebration of Halloween, we cast our gaze on the classic film An American Werewolf In London. From the Yorkshire Moors to Piccadilly Circus, this film caused a stir upon its release in 1981. Is it a horror or a comedy? Is Jenny Agutter the poshest nurse ever? Let's take a visit to the most unwelcoming pub in England. And have you ever woken up in a wolf enclosure? Easily done.A...2024-10-2949 minThe Problematic Gaze'Absolutely Fabulous' from 1994. Champers alright for you, Pats?Crack open the Bolly! It's our 20th episode!! Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week, we cast our gaze on the PR and fashion world inhabited by the icons Edina Monsoon and Patsy Stone, from the classic BBC sitcom Absolutely Fabulous. In Episode 3 from Season 2, Pats and Eddy, take a trip to Marrakech. Unfortunately for Patsy, Edina's daughter Saffy tags along. What could possibly go wrong?Also, Lee and Dave put in an exhausting 6 hour shift in L...2024-10-2242 minThe Problematic Gaze'Threads' TV movie from 1984. Sheffield, shelters and nuclear winters.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we struggle to find anything uplifting to say about the TV film 'Threads' from 1984. Although, considering its subject matter is nuclear armageddon, we'd challenge anyone to put a positive slant on it! The source of many a child of the 80's nightmares, 'Threads' is an unrelenting study on what can happen when two superpowers collide. We promise we'll be funny funny funny next week! That's if we're all still here.........Al...2024-10-1539 minThe Problematic Gaze'Heartstopper" Teen Drama from 2024. The Kids are Alright!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we unite once again in the penthouse boardroom of PG Towers. We come bang up to date to cast our gaze over the latest series of Netflix coming of age teen drama Heartstopper. How has LGBTQIA+ representation on television advanced over the decades? And what can two self confessed 'old gays' learn from Nick, Charlie and their friends? Turns out, quite a lot!Also, Lee's X-Rated Meryl Streep dream! And is...2024-10-0840 minThe Problematic Gaze'Love Island' Smash Hit Reality Show from 2022. Innocent Love Story or Cynical Manipulation?Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over the smash hit reality TV series 'Love Island' from 2022. Watch as the love stories of the villa unfold week by week. Watch as the line of what's real and what's being manipulated by skilled storytellers gets blurred. Are the contestants gullible pawns or savvy entrepreneurs? And what the Ekin-Su can two old giffers like Lee and Dave possibly like about this programme?Also, Lee has a...2024-10-0134 minThe Problematic Gaze'Steptoe and Son' TV Comedy from 1972. Rag and Bone and Nostalgia Porn.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast our Gaze over the phenomenon of nostalgia posts on social media. Who exactly wants us to think that the past was so wonderful compared to now? And why? In Steptoe and and Son, a sitcom where son Harold is desperate to escape the shackles of poverty, thwarted by his father at every turn, the past doesn't look, or smell so rosy.Also, is Lee being pursued by a s...2024-09-2442 minThe Problematic Gaze'Love Actually' from 2003. Romantic Loveliness or Misogynistic Mess?Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we break out the mince pies and sherry to watch the British Christmas movie 'Love Actually' from 2003. A word of warning! If this film fills you with festive cheer, prepare to have your nostalgia vibes well and truly violated! This film is what The Problematic Gaze was invented for. Buckle up! Our peace and goodwill runneth on empty!Also, Lee knows his onions when it comes to cold remedies. And D...2024-09-1756 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Terminator' Film from 1984. Mullets, Guns and Arnie's Bum!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This episode we cast our gaze over 1984's 'The Terminator'. What is hypermasculinity and why was it so prevalent in the 80's? Can a mullet ever look good on a woman? Can the machines really take over? Remember, always be nice to Alexa, it might just save your life come Judgement Day!Also, ever recreated the Torvill and Dean's 'Bolero' on roller boots? And is Shakin Stevens actually an un-killable cyborg from the...2024-09-1046 minThe Problematic Gaze'The Golden Girls' Sitcom from 1987. Sicily, Sin and St Olaf.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. For the first time in weeks, Lee and Dave are thrust together in the same room!!! Add raging hangovers and a bottle of medicinal champagne and light the blue touch paper! Join us for our robust exploration into the world of Dorothy, Sophia, Blanche and Rose, AKA The Golden Girls. In this episode, Season 3 Episode 11, we join the girls on the therapists couch. Also, Lee explores the world of 80's shopping catalogues (s...2024-09-031h 07The Problematic Gaze'Fat Slags' Movie from 2004. Sex, Vice and Ginger Spice.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we watch the 2004 British film 'Fat Slags'. Universally panned by critics and a flop at the box office, Dave and Dr Lee dig deep to find a redeeming feature. Do we succeed?Also, we deep dive Dave's trip to New York and skim the surface on Lee's trip to erm... Wigan.If you'd like to watch the (mercifully short) Fat Slags movie click here. We recommend having a b...2024-08-2746 minThe Problematic Gaze'Ghostwatch' BBC TV Drama from 1992. Parky, Pipes and Brown Pants!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we watch the supernatural BBC 1 drama 'Ghostwatch' from 1992. Find out why it had the nation in uproar and jammed the BBC switchboard. Just who is Pipes? And dare you enter the Glory Hole?Sadly the version of Ghostwatch we watched on YouTube has been taken down. But click here to watch a fab documentary about the Ghostwatch controversy by Shrouded Hand.Click here to follow us on our s...2024-08-2051 minThe Problematic Gaze'Pretty Woman' from 1990. Big Mistake, Huge!!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we watch the 1990 movie "Pretty Woman" starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. Romantic fairy tale or a huge bucket of problematic misogyny? Let's discuss.Also, Lee's big night out in Soho and Dave's favourite new podcast (after The Problematic Gaze of course!!)You can watch Pretty Woman.... well, pretty much anywhere really!Click here to follow us on our socialsAnd if our fellow G...2024-08-0642 minThe Problematic Gaze'Men Behaving Badly' TV Comedy from 1994. Lads Lads Lads!!!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we watch an episode of popular UK sitcom 'Men Behaving Badly." from 1994. Just what was Lad Culture and what was it reacting against? Was it all just an advertisers wet dream?Also, Lee's pigeon nightmare. And is beating a rat to death with a spade ever justified?Click here to watch the episode of Men Behaving Badly discussed in this episode.Click here to follow us o...2024-07-3036 minThe Problematic Gaze'Carry On Girls' from 1973. Man In A Frock, Bikini Wrestlers and Itching Powder.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we delve into the world of 'Carry On' films with Carry On Girls from 1973. Harmless saucy fun? Feminist classic? Hmmm...... Where can we buy a swanee whistle?Also, just where did Bananarama film the video for 'Cruel Summer? Spontaneous nightclubbing. And Dave's Madonna nightmare.You can watch Carry On Girls in ITV X in the UK. Or rent it from iTunes.Click here to watch "Miss Wo...2024-07-2342 minThe Problematic Gaze'Justify My Love' Madonna's Video from 1990. I Wanna Kiss You In Paris.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast the Problematic lens over Madonna's 1990 music video for Justify My Love.Madonna caused another commotion with the release of this video. But looking back on it, did it really warrant the moral backlash and slut shaming it received?Also, what would Cilla Black's version of this song sound like? And Lee, why don't you tell us how you really feel about football!To watch Madonna's J...2024-07-1634 minThe Problematic Gaze'Man About The House' TV Sitcom from 1973. There's A Strange Man In Our Bath!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we cast the Problematic lens over 'Man About The House', a UK sitcom from 1973. Jo and Chrissie find a strange man in their bath. But can he cook? And a new queen is crowned! All bow to Yootha Joyce!Click here to watch the episode of Man About The House as discussed in this podcastClick here to follow us on our socialsAnd if our f...2024-07-0934 minThe Problematic Gaze'Bullseye' UK Gameshow from 1988. Nothing In This Game For Two in A Bed!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. This week we take a deep dive into Bullseye, a popular UK TV gameshow from the 80's and 90's. Jim Bowen, Tony Green, Bully's Prize Board! It's all here. Problematic? You bet! Watch the Episode of Bullseye from 25th September 1988 here...Click here to follow us on our socialsAnd if our fellow Gazers want to comment on what they've heard in our episodes, or to suggest future t...2024-07-0243 minThe Problematic Gaze'Victim' The British Film Thriller from 1961. Brave and Heartbreaking.Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. In this episode we watch the British film 'Victim' from 1961. A classic starring Dirk Bogarde and Sylvia Syms, it was considered the first British film to portray homosexuality in a sympathetic light.Click here to watch the 1961 thriller 'Victim"Click here to follow us on our socialsAnd if our fellow Gazers want to comment on what they've heard in our episodes, or to suggest future topics, please em...2024-06-2541 minThe Problematic Gaze'Allo Allo!" British Comedy from 1982. Gaslighting Edith!Join Lee and Dave for a lighthearted look at the world of TV, Film and Popular Culture from yesteryear that has since been considered problematic. In this episode we watch the pilot episode of Allo Allo! Saucy farce, British airmen, the alluring Michelle of the French resistance. Is War ever funny? When did 'gaslighting' become a dirty word? It's all under discussion here. You can watch Allo Allo! here. (Sign in required.) Or simply search YouTube for an abundance of clips for your viewing pleasure. Click here to follow us on our socialsA...2024-06-1830 min