The Specialist: Stallone’s Underrated Action Gem?

In this lively live-streamed episode of the Sylvester Stallone Podcast Network, hosts Ryan (from Going the Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast), Doug (from Rocky Minute), and Craig (from Sly Cast) reunite for a casual, beer-fueled roundtable on James Mangold's 1997 crime drama Copland. Joined by guest Jeff, the group dives into the film's stellar ensemble cast—including Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Harvey Keitel, and Michael Rapaport—while unpacking Stallone's understated performance as the deaf, beleaguered Sheriff Freddy Heflin, the movie's themes of corruption and redemption in a fictional cop enclave, and the frustrating career what-ifs that followed its release, all laced with tangents on pinball machines, deleted scenes, and Bruce Springsteen.

Join hosts Craig Cohen from the Sly Cast, Doug Greenberg from Rocky Minute, and Ryan Rebalkin from Going the Distance as they dive into a lively and humorous breakdown of the 1994 action film The Specialist. This episode, filled with witty banter and nostalgic reflections, explores the highs and lows of Sylvester Stallone’s bomb-expert character Ray Quick, alongside Sharon Stone, James Woods, and Eric Roberts, in a Miami-set thriller that blends cheesy 90s action with memorable performances. From dissecting the film’s convoluted plot and iconic scenes to laughing over its dated tropes and questionable production choices, the trio delivers an entertaining discussion that celebrates the movie’s quirks while acknowledging its flaws, making it a must-listen for Stallone fans and 90s cinema enthusiasts alike.

This short audio clip explains everything - Ryan

Dive into the time-twisting world of "Looper" with hosts Josh Carter and Kendrick Martin on "Where There's a Willis, There's a Way"! Ever wondered how Bruce Willis stacks up in a sci-fi thriller packed with mob hits, time travel paradoxes, and telekinetic twists? We break it all down—from the mind-bending plot to Willis's gritty performance—in this fun, in-depth episode that's perfect for action movie fans and Bruce Willis enthusiasts alike.In this episode, we explore Rian Johnson's 2012 gem "Looper," where young assassin Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) faces off against his future self (Bruce Willis) in a high-stakes game of closing the loop. We dive into the film's clever take on time travel, its noir-inspired vibes, standout performances from Emily Blunt and Jeff Daniels, and why it's one of Willis's best roles post-"Die Hard." Plus, we share trivia, listener emails, and spin the Wheel of Willis for some hilarious hypotheticals. Whether you're a sci-fi buff or just love dissecting Bruce Willis movies, you'll walk away with fresh insights, laughs, and a urge to rewatch this underrated classic. We're all about celebrating Bruce Willis's iconic (and sometimes wild) filmography with honest breakdowns, trivia, and a dash of humor.00:00 - Intro music and "hit it boys" opener00:02 - Hosts Josh and Kendrick introduce the podcast00:26 - First-time listener guide and podcast format explanation00:45 - Shoutouts to previous episodes and williswaypod.com01:00 - Plug for the Last of the Action Heroes Podcast Network01:12 - Ways to support the show and leave reviews01:29 - Reading listener emails about Moonrise Kingdom and Expendables 210:24 - Diving into "Looper" discussion and spoiler warning11:04 - Hosts rate the movie out of "Bruce Willis"12:38 - Playing the "Looper" trailer audio15:15 - IMDB plot summary and streaming info16:26 - Personal reactions and love for the film's vibes20:03 - Rian Johnson's film history (Brick, Brothers Bloom)21:16 - Breaking down time travel rules and telekinesis elements34:50 - Insane body horror scene with time-altered torture43:45 - Bruce Willis's performance analysis50:15 - Spinning the Wheel of Willis: Bruce can only lie?57:32 - Episode wrap-up and tasty treats (recommendations)If you enjoyed this Bruce Willis deep dive, like, comment your favorite time travel movie below, and subscribe for more breakdowns of Willis classics like "Die Hard" and beyond! Got thoughts on "Looper"? Email us at [email protected] or join the conversation on BlueSky @williswaypod. Check out more episodes at williswaypod.com and explore the Last of the Action Heroes Podcast Network for other action hero spotlights.#BruceWillis #LooperMovie #TimeTravelSciFi #RianJohnson #MoviePodcast

Join us for an action-packed episode of It's a Long Road, where we dive into the gritty world of Rambo (aka John Rambo), the fourth film in the iconic Rambo series! We’re joined by superfan Matt, who’s unearthed exclusive behind-the-scenes details and trivia that’ll blow your mind. From intense action scenes to Stallone’s stunts, this episode is a must-watch for Rambo fans! Subscribe for more Rambo and Stallone content, and let us know your favorite Rambo moment in the comments!Check out Matt's podcast at https://www.youtube.com/@studioredban...Get ready for a deep dive into Rambo (2008) with exclusive insights, trivia, and untold stories about Sylvester Stallone’s legendary action hero. Our guest Matt shares his passion for the franchise, behind-the-scenes secrets, and details about the original script that never made it to the screen. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the series, this episode offers something for everyone!0:31 - Welcome to It's a Long Road and introducing Rambo (John Rambo)0:48 - Meet Matt, a longtime Stallone fan and Rambo expert1:55 - How Matt unearths rare Rambo material and scripts3:24 - Matt’s experience working on a Rambo documentary in Hope, British Columbia5:56 - Matt’s journey as a Sylvester Stallone fan, starting with First Blood8:22 - Trivia begins: Discussing the title Rambo vs. John Rambo11:19 - Matt’s thoughts on watching Rambo (2008) and its iconic scenes17:12 - Rambo trivia questions, including the infamous “50 times” line20:370 - Breaking down the tall boy bomb scene and its effects31:43 - Matt teases his upcoming Cobra VR project and other exciting venturesIf you love action movies, Sylvester Stallone, or the Rambo franchise, this episode is packed with exclusive insights, trivia, and fan passion. Learn about the original Rambo (2008) script, Stallone’s intense stunts, and the legacy of this action-packed series. Plus, get a sneak peek into Matt’s innovative Cobra VR project!It’s a Long Road is your go-to podcast for all things Sylvester Stallone, from Rambo to Rocky and beyond. We bring you deep dives, fan stories, and exclusive content for action movie lovers. #Rambo #SylvesterStallone #JohnRambo #ActionMovies #Rambo4email the show at [email protected]

Hey action movie fans, ready for a wild ride back to the days of high adventure? Join Kevin and Eric on 6° of Schwarzenegger as we dive deep into the 1992 cult classic Universal Soldier! This Van Damme and Lundgren showdown is packed with epic stunts, sci-fi vibes, and pure 90s action goodness. In this episode, we’re tearing into Universal Soldier, directed by Roland Emmerich, where Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren face off as reanimated super-soldiers. From the gritty Vietnam opener to the explosive Hoover Dam sequence, we cover the stunts, the cast, and the behind-the-scenes magic that made this film a Blockbuster staple. Expect laughs, bourbon, and a box of wine as we share our love for 80s and 90s action flicks!We break down why Universal Soldier holds up with its practical effects and star power. From Van Damme’s iconic accent to Lundgren’s chilling villain turn, we unpack the performances.Perfect for fans of Terminator 2, Rambo, and other action classics.Discover fun facts, like the film’s Arizona golf course “jungle” and its unique cargo plane!0:00 - Intro: Days of High Adventure0:23 - Welcome to 6° of Schwarzenegger1:43 - Introducing Universal Soldier (1992)1:58 - Childhood Memories of the Film3:09 - Van Damme and Lundgren’s Epic Co-Starring Role5:26 - Stunt Work and Practical Effects6:13 - Roland Emmerich’s Directorial Debut in America11:56 - Cast Breakdown: Van Damme, Lundgren, and Allie Walker15:14 - Vietnam Opener: Gritty Action and Ear Necklaces26:06 - Hoover Dam Terrorist Attack Sequence6° of Schwarzenegger is your go-to podcast for deep dives into the best (and cheesiest) action movies of the 80s and 90s. We’re all about celebrating the larger-than-life heroes, epic stunts, and nostalgic vibes of the genre.Next Episode: We’re diving deeper into Universal Soldier—stay tuned for wild plot twists and an alternate ending! #UniversalSoldier #ActionMovies #VanDamme #DolphLundgren #90sNostalgia

Get ready for an unforgettable episode! Join us as we sit down with legendary boxing referee Jack Reiss, whose incredible journey from a Brooklyn kid to a California Boxing Hall of Fame inductee will leave you inspired! From refereeing iconic fights to rubbing shoulders with Sylvester Stallone, Jack’s stories are packed with heart, grit, and Hollywood flair. In this episode of our boxing podcast, we dive deep into Jack Reiss’ multifaceted career as a firefighter, boxing referee, and on-screen talent in films like Ali and TV shows like Ray Donovan. With his infectious enthusiasm and down-to-earth vibe, Jack shares how he went from fighting fires to officiating some of the biggest boxing matches in history, including the controversial Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder fight. Whether you’re a boxing fanatic or just love a good underdog story, this episode is a knockout!We’re all about bringing you the best in boxing—interviews with legends, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights into the sweet science. 00:00 - Intro: Kicking off with the iconic bell ring!01:07 - Introducing Jack Reiss: California Boxing Hall of Fame legend02:19 - Jack’s journey: From firefighter to boxing referee03:05 - Growing up in Brooklyn with a boxing dad04:14 - Discovering boxing at Gleason’s Gym and martial arts07:18 - Becoming a firefighter: Inspired by the action09:08 - Breaking into refereeing: Mentored by boxing greats15:09 - Handling chaos: The Andre Ward vs. Edwin Rodriguez fight19:09 - On the big screen: Working on The Contender with Stallone27:39 - Hollywood moments: Refereeing in Ali and Ray Donovan39:22 - The Tyson Fury controversy: Setting the record straight46:52 - Closing thoughts: Jack’s offer to educate on boxing controversiesHear exclusive stories from Jack’s career, including his time with Sylvester Stallone and Muhammad Ali.Learn what it takes to referee high-stakes boxing matches.Get the real scoop on the Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder “long count” controversy.Enjoy Jack’s Brooklyn charm and passion for boxing!#BoxingLegends #JackReiss #BoxingStories #SylvesterStallone #TysonFury

Get ready for a chaotic blast from the past with Tank Girl (1995), a punk-rock fueled, post-apocalyptic adventure that’s as bold as it is bizarre! Join us as we dive into this cult classic with special guest Ryan Rebalkin CEO of The Last of the Action Heroes Podcast Network. From Lori Petty’s electrifying performance to the film’s quirky comic book roots, we unpack why this movie is a flawed yet lovable gem. In this episode, we explore Tank Girl’s unique blend of Mad Max-style grit, Pee Wee’s Playhouse zaniness, and 90s punk aesthetics. We discuss the film’s struggle to find its tone, its stellar cast, including Lori Petty and Naomi Watts, and why it flopped at the box office but won a cult following. Whether you’re a comic book fan or just love offbeat movies, this breakdown offers insights into what makes Tank Girl a one-of-a-kind experience.We’re all about dissecting action films, cult classics, and comic book movies with a passion for the bold and the bizarre. If you love high-energy discussions about films like Tank Girl, RoboCop, or Mad Max, you’re in the right place! Timestamps 00:00 - Intro: Welcome to the Tank Girl discussion! 01:31 - Special Guest: Meet Ryan Rebalkin, podcast network head honcho 04:32 - Film Stats: Release date, director, and box office breakdown 07:38 - First Impressions: Ryan’s blind watch and Craig’s nostalgic revisit 12:46 - Tone Troubles: Is Tank Girl for kids or adults? 15:55 - Budget Woes: How a $25M budget led to animated sequences 20:36 - Comic vs. Film: Comparing the non-linear comic to the movie’s narrative 36:36 - Cast Highlights: Lori Petty, Naomi Watts, and Malcolm McDowell shine 48:54 - Hologram Head: Malcolm McDowell’s wild villain twist 57:02 - Soundtrack Vibes: 90s punk, grunge, and Courtney Love’s influenceThis episode is perfect for fans of 90s cinema, comic book adaptations, or anyone curious about Tank Girl’s enduring cult status. Learn about the film’s production challenges, its feminist undertones, and why Margot Robbie might just revive this quirky franchise. Follow Ryan on The Worst of the Best Podcast for more eclectic discussions! Join us next month for Crimson Tide #TankGirl #CultClassic #ComicBookMovies #90sCinema #LoriPetty

We kick off with a heartfelt discussion on the recent passing of Hulk Hogan (Thunderlips from Rocky III), sharing personal memories and reflections on his impact in wrestling and the Rocky universe. From there, we dive into viewer comments, trivia challenges, and key differences between the theatrical and director's cuts. Plus, we analyze poignant scenes like Rocky's nostalgic tour of Philly with Paulie, unpacking themes of loss, regret, and moving forward.Whether you're a die-hard Rocky fan or just love inspiring underdog stories, this episode highlights what makes the series timeless: the raw emotion, iconic characters, and life lessons that keep us coming back. Our podcast breaks down every Rocky film minute by minute, blending humor, analysis, and fan interaction to celebrate Sylvester Stallone's legendary saga.⁠00:47⁠ - Hosts' Check-In & Life Updates⁠02:14⁠ - Tribute to Hulk Hogan: Memories & Legacy⁠05:00⁠ - Childhood Wrestling Stories & Hogan's Character⁠09:58⁠ - Celebrity Deaths & Emotional Connections⁠13:20⁠ - YouTube Comments: Fan Reactions & Discoveries⁠14:05⁠ - Trailer Reaction: New Sly-Produced Boxing Biopic "Giant"⁠20:09⁠ - Rocky & Robert's Relationship Analysis⁠30:46⁠ - Voicemail from Michael: Scene Insights & Director's Cut Differences⁠35:02⁠ - Trivia Challenge & Fan Debates⁠40:15⁠ - Answers Revealed & Score Recap⁠44:29⁠ - Scene Breakdown: Mason Dixon's Isolation⁠51:11⁠ - Rocky's Nostalgic Tour Begins: Church & Pet Shop⁠01:02:29⁠ - Ice Rink Memories & Paulie's Regrets

Ever wondered what happens when Frank Stallone faces off with Jesse Lee Peterson’s wild questions? Buckle up for a rollercoaster of a podcast episode as we dive into part 2 of Frank Stallone’s unforgettable appearance on The Fallen State! 😳 From dodging loaded questions to dropping surprising truths, Frank’s got us laughing and scratching our heads. In this episode, we break down the second half of Frank Stallone’s appearance on The Fallen State podcast, hosted by the polarizing Jesse Lee Peterson. Joined by our special guest co-host, Trucker Andy, we unpack Frank’s reactions to some of the most bizarre and provocative questions ever thrown his way. From his struggles with Jesse’s philosophical traps to his unexpected moments of clarity, this episode is packed with cringe-worthy, laugh-out-loud moments that make Frank the lovable enigma we can’t stop watching. Our channel is all about exploring the wild world of Frank Stallone—his music, his antics, and his one-of-a-kind personality—so stick around for the ride!⁠0:34⁠ - Intro Music & Show Kickoff: The episode starts with a catchy tune and introduces Big Gun Doug and guest co-host Andy.⁠0:51⁠ - Andy’s Take on Frank: Andy shares his shock that Frank comes off as the “normal” one in this wild interview.⁠1:34⁠ - Fallen State Podcast Context: We set the stage for part 2, explaining why Frank seems likable compared to Jesse.⁠3:10⁠ - Frank’s Best Answer Ever: Frank delivers a surprisingly solid response to one of Jesse’s questions (no spoilers!).⁠4:00⁠ - Jesse’s Loaded Questions: Jesse asks Frank if his girlfriend obeys him, sparking philosophical chaos.⁠8:30⁠ - Frank’s Childhood Reflections: Frank blames his dad for not being a great athlete, revealing personal struggles.⁠14:25⁠ - Frank’s Mental Health Moment: Frank opens up about his panic attacks in the ‘60s, a rare vulnerable moment.⁠19:12⁠ - The Infamous “What’s Wrong with the Blacks?”: Jesse’s shocking question puts Frank on the spot.⁠36:11⁠ - Women: Lead or Follow?: Frank tap-dances around Jesse’s question about women’s roles, leading to hilarious deflections.⁠53:22⁠ - Frank’s Struggle with “Good in Humans”: Frank tries (and struggles) to name one good thing about humanity.Stay updated on all things Frank Stallone at frank.stalloneCheck out our guest Andy: Visit allapologiespodcast.com for more of Andy’s hilarious takes!Watch Frank’s Documentary: 'Stallone: Frank, That Is' on Amazon for a deep dive into his life. email us at [email protected]