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Scene by Scene with Josh & Dean: American Splendor

Scene by Scene with Josh & Dean: American Splendor

By Josh Neufeld

Josh Neufeld & Dean Haspiel break down Harvey Pekar's AMERICAN SPLENDOR the movie (2003) scene by scene, with insight, humor, and inside information. Neufeld & Haspiel were both illustrators for the American Splendor comic book. SCENE BY SCENE is geared toward fans of indy comics and movies, as well as the rapidly growing “movies-by-minute” podcast movement. You can find SCENE BY SCENE at http://www.scenebyscenepodcast.com
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AS8: Bob and Harv

Scene by Scene with Josh & Dean: American SplendorMay 27, 2019

00:00
38:20
AS Bonus: Live Event with Springer Berman, Pulcini, Friedlander, and Leib
Feb 15, 202057:59
AS Bonus: Writer/Directors SHARI SPRINGER BERMAN and ROBERT PULCINI Interview

AS Bonus: Writer/Directors SHARI SPRINGER BERMAN and ROBERT PULCINI Interview

Josh & Dean sit down with American Splendor writer/directors Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini for a freewheeling discussion of the movie. Shari & Bob talk about meeting Harvey & Joyce, the writing & making of the film, their working method and creative choices, casting, memorable moments from the shoot, the film’s main themes, and Harvey’s legacy.

According to Bob, “Everything about the making of American Splendor was unorthodox and unusual.” For instance, the first day of casting was on September 11, 2001… Other tidbits include the surprising revelation that the film was heavily influenced by the Peanuts animated specials of the 1960s! Listen for that and so much more. As Shari says, "it was so important to Harvey to not be invisible, to not evaporate.” Well, thanks in large part to the American Splendor film, Harvey Pekar will live forever...

Shout-outs to producer Ted Hope, production designer Thérèse DePrez, Cole Porter's "Night & Day," Charlie Rose, script supervisor Michael Taylor, the Crumb documentary, the 1978 Superman movie, Twinkle's Gary Leib & John Kuromoto, Josh Hutcherson, Hitchcock's Rope, Seinfeld, Maud Nadler, HBO, the New York Times, Beef with Tomato, Twitter, Jeff Newelt, @RealHarveyPekarTweets, and Helen Mirren wearing a Harvey Pekar T-shirt!

Nov 05, 201901:08:20
AS30: The End Credits

AS30: The End Credits

American Splendor scene #30 (1:37:31 to 1:41:08) — As the credits roll (on the film and the podcast), Josh & Dean reflect on all things Pekar/American Splendor. What should the film’s post-credit sequence have been? What would an American Splendor TV show look like? (Dino keeps coming back to Louis C.K.) 

A tribute to DC/Vertigo/Paradox Press, as well as editor Jonathan Vankin. Other notable movies with the word “American” in the title. The next movies from each of the film’s actors. Who would you want to write, direct, and star in the movie of your life? Thoughts on Harvey's death and the film’s conclusion. A somber way to end the season. Thanks for listening!

SHOUT-OUTs to Doug Allen, R. Crumb. Greg Budgett, Gary Dumm, Gary Leib, Jason Gerstein, Joe Sacco, Gerry Shamray, Frank Stack, Joe Zabel, Bernt Capra, Vince Waldron, DC's Big Book of... series, Sandman, Swamp Thing, Hellblazer, Neil Gaiman, the comics' "British Invasion," Paradox Press, Andy Helfer, A History of Violence, Karen Berger, Hollywood Bob, Alden Ehrenreich (Han Solo), Harrison Ford, Seinfeld, Alan Alda, Alan Moore, HBO's Watchmen TV show, Pamela Adlon's Better Things, the U.S. State Dept. Speaker/Specialist program, Jerry Lewis, Woody Allen, France, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Deadpool, Chester Brown, the "Who is Harvey Pekar" scene, the Alamo Drafthouse, Chris Smith, Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, Kevin Costner, Bret Easton Ellis, Pierce Brosnan, Ted Hope, Good Machine, Josh Hutcherson (Robin), The Hunger Games, M*A*S*H, Hawkeye Pierce, Radar O'Reilly, Dead or Alive's "You Spin Me Round," Charlie Kaufman, Spike Jonze, Ryan O’Neal, Seth Rogan, Paddy Cheyefsky, Budd Schulberg, Network, The Hospital, George C. Scott, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, the Coen Brothers, Sergio Leone, the Russian Turkish Baths, John Ritter, the Fonz, Captain Kirk, Jason Wright, Doug Latino, Evan Wilson, Jen Ferguson, Sari Wilson, and all you listeners.

Oct 28, 201951:06
AS29: Part of the Story (with Alex Robinson)

AS29: Part of the Story (with Alex Robinson)

American Splendor scene #29 (1:31:12 to 1:37:31) — Alex Robinson of Star Wars Minute joins Josh & Dean for the final scene of the film! (Well, actually, six little “scenelets.”) It's one year later, and Harvey & Joyce sign Our Cancer Year. Harvey is declared cancer-free! They adopt Danielle, and Harvey adjusts to being a parent (of a sort). The real Harvey retires from the VA hospital, and the movie ends with a group hug.

For Alex, discovering American Splendor was "like LSD in reverse.” An ode to Alex’s work, particularly Box Office Poison and the characters Jane Pekar and Irving Flavor. We learn that “Pekar” means “baker” (in Czech)! The idea of a Harvey Pekar walking tour of Cleveland. “On the money": all the books Harvey published between 2003 and 2010 (his death). Which Star Wars character would Harvey play?

Shout-outs to Star Wars Minute (of course), Frank Stack, the Harvey Award, Harvey Comics, Casper the Friendly Ghost, Hot Stuff, Richie Rich, Godfather Minute, Gary Dumm, Lakewood, Collector's Warehouse, Gene Colan, Siegel & Shuster, Nightstalker, Jack Kirby, the School of Visual Arts, Will Eisner, Carmine Infantino, Gahan Wilson, Love & Rockets, Madylin Sweeten, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Everybody Loves Raymond, cold pizza, ice skating, getting older, Portland, the Cleveland Halloran Ice Rink, re-reading your own comics, deadline art, The Little Mermaid, the Comics Code vs. the Hays Code, Matrix: Revolutions and crappy sequels, manga like Akira & Crying Freeman, Mike Hueston, Van Halen & green M&Ms, brown M&Ms?, reversed vasectomies, Wo Hop, La Caridad, the Russian & Turkish Baths, Mark Zingarelli, Robert McNeill, American Splendor: Unsung Hero, Dark Horse Comics, chess boxing, Alex Toth, Our Expanding Universe, the iPad Pro, Rutger Hauer, Blade Runner, C-3PO, and My Dinner with André. Ingy Wamba!

Oct 21, 201901:17:58
AS Bonus: Animator GARY LEIB Interview

AS Bonus: Animator GARY LEIB Interview

Josh sits down with Gary Leib to discuss his work on the film, specifically on key scenes like the title sequence, "Old Jewish Ladies," and "Who is Harvey Pekar?" Gary's background as an alternative cartoonist (Idiotland) and musician, and his long-standing partnership with Doug Allen. How Gary got into animation and initially hooked up with Ted Hope and Good Machine. John Kuramoto's vital contributions to the animation. Getting to know Harvey at Sundance, and what it was like when American Splendor won the Grand Jury Prize. Why Gary can't toot his own horn in the age of Trump.

Shout-outs to Rubber Radio, John Linnell from They Might Be Giants, Dan Clowes, Chris Ware, Fantagraphics, Denis Kitchen, Spain, Zap Comix, Love God, Tim Streeto, Fellini's Amarcord, and HBO's Maud Nadler.

Oct 17, 201938:24
AS28: Who is Harvey Pekar?

AS28: Who is Harvey Pekar?

American Splendor scene #28 (1:28:12 to 1:31:12) — In one continuous take, Harvey wanders through a dreamscape, musing about his name, the phone book, and the other Harvey Pekars out there. An existential meditation is brought to life in a tour-de-force combination of framing, acting, and animation. A comparison with the original comic, “The Harvey Pekar Name Story,” a masterpiece of subtlety and quiet moments, illustrated by R. Crumb. The origin of the Haspiels/Haspels in America, and the other Josh Neufelds.

Shout-outs to Gina Haspel, Haspel clothing, Tom King & Clay Mann’s Heroes in Crisis, Lenny Bruce, Marc Maron, Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing, Star Wars' R2-D2 & C-3PO, Crockett Johnson’s Harold and the Purple Crayon, True Detective, The Matrix, Gary Leib, John Kuromoto, Josh’s ”Tribal Rituals" story from A Few Perfect Hours, Ivan Brunetti, Crumb’s ”Stoned Again,” Prince’s “Controversy,” Dan Castellaneta, the stage version of the “Harvey Pekar Name Story,” Billy Dogma, The Red Hook, and Dean’s playwriting.

Oct 14, 201942:10
AS27: Treatment Begins

AS27: Treatment Begins

American Splendor scene #27 (1:24:49 to 1:28:11) — The trauma and turmoil of Harvey’s treatment; time passes strangely. Meanwhile, Fred — accompanied by Danielle — continues to work on Our Cancer Year with Harvey & Joyce. An addled Harvey wonders if he’s real or if he’s just a character in a comic book. And if he dies will the story end, or will it keep on going? The scene begins and ends out of focus.

How Harvey had the sole copyright on his stories. The importance of good — preferably hand-done — lettering. Testimonials to Seth Kushner and Frank Stack. Harvey’s legacy and the added poignancy of this scene now that he is dead. Josh & Dean trade hospital stories. An appreciation of Joyce as Harvey's primary caretaker.

Shout-outs to soundtrack composer Mark Suozzo, PA/illustrator Jason Gertsein, Alex Toth, Ben Oda and Oda Balloon, Prince Valiant, Dondi, Irwin Hasen, letterers Patrick Brosseau and Ken Bruzenak, Howard Chaykin, American Flagg!, Vito Delsante, Alex DeCampi, Street Code/Beef With Tomato, Billy Dogma, Keyhole, DC/Vertigo, the School of Visual Arts, Seamus Beyale, The Brooklynite, New Brooklyn, Line Webtoon, Jon Allen, The Red Hook, Baltimore Comic-Con, "Working Man's Nightmare," Jeff Newelt, Dino's "Proud Flesh," Roger Schoening, The Quitter, Mike Hueston, Angry Wade's, Mike Haspiel, chocolate milk and bean curd, and boob-nose jobs.

Oct 07, 201951:33
AS Bonus: Producer TED HOPE Interview

AS Bonus: Producer TED HOPE Interview

Josh & Dean chat with Ted Hope (now with Amazon Studios), the producer of American Splendor. Hope talks about his own background in the business, the development of the film (including Dean’s key introductions), his favorite moments from the shoot, and premiering the film at Sundance. In a moving testament to authenticity in art, Hope explains why projects like American Splendor (both the film and the comics) have to exist.

Shout-outs to NYU Film School, Alex Cox and REPO MAN, Ed Burns, Hal Hartley, Todd Solondz, Ralph Nader, the New York Film Festival, Jim Jarmusch's STRANGER THAN PARADISE. the Cohen Brothers and BLOOD SIMPLE, Frances McDormand, Spike Lee, the old Cinema Studio, Ang Lee’s ICE STORM, Dylan Baker, Dan Clowes, Todd Solondz' HAPPINESS, Chester Brown’s YUMMY FUR, Terry Zwigoff & Crumb, HBO’s Colin Callender and Maud Nadler, Glen Basner (now of FilmNation), production designer Thérèse DePrez, Gary Leib and the "super-imaginative" title sequence, Judah Friedlander, James McCaffrey, costume designer Michael Wilkinson, and Ted's book HOPE FOR FILM.

Oct 04, 201956:03
AS26: Our Cancer Year (with Jeff "JahFurry" Newelt)

AS26: Our Cancer Year (with Jeff "JahFurry" Newelt)

American Splendor scene #26 (1:18:34 to 1:24:48) — To his and Joyce’s great shock, Harvey is diagnosed with lymphoma. Joyce suggest he “make a comic book of the whole thing,” but Harvey just wants to die. Undeterred, Joyce enlists Fred, an artist, to illustrate the experience. Fred brings along Danielle, his daughter, on their first brainstorming session, and Joyce is smitten with the girl. Harvey agrees to participate in the comic — and asks Fred tp keep bringing Danielle along. Josh & Dean are again joined by Jeff “JahFurry” Newelt, who edited Harvey's online Pekar Project and the graphic novel Cleveland.

"Fred" is an amalgam of artist Frank Stack and Danielle's real father. A discussion of Frank Stack and his art, going back to his work as one of the first underground cartoonists. Harvey wrote comics in the spirit of jazz — with the right partner — and how he chose his collaborators. "What kind of a Jew are you?" and Galicianers. JahFurry talks about working with the “late-period” Pekar. Harvey's importance as a jazz critic and “power-broker,” and Jah’s theory that the movie misses “25% of Harvey's persona.” Harvey's 70th birthday, Harvey Heads, and the Chocolate Cake and Clams Incident. Our giddiest and most flatulent episode ever!

Shout-outs to James McCaffery, The Adventures of Jesus, The Texas Ranger, Nick & Eddie restaurant, George Gilmore, Mike DiAvila, Burnzy's Last Call, Viper, Howard Chaykin, American Flagg!, Michael Chabon's The Escapist, Bizarro comics, The Quitter, Joseph Remnant, Rick Parker, Eleanor Davis, DC/Vertigo, Jonathan Vankin, Darwyn Cooke, Ty Templeton, Los Bros. Hernandez, Bob Fingerman, Rick Veitch, SMITH Magazine, A.D., Next Door Neighbor, #RealPekarTweets, Sean Pryor, Alan Moore, Jamie Zaft, John Zorn, Andy Statman, Kamasi Washington, Alice Coltrane, Pharell Saunders, Jonathan Ames, Jen Ferguson, Anthony Bourdain, Sokolowski's Polish Food Emporium, Zip Comics, Top Shelf, Ben Katchor, Douglas Rushkoff, Larry Charles, and Lionel’s Lament.

Sep 30, 201901:05:47
AS25: You F***d Up a Great Thing (with Jeff “JahFurry” Newelt)

AS25: You F***d Up a Great Thing (with Jeff “JahFurry” Newelt)

American Splendor scene #25 (1:15:00 to 1:18:33) — The scene begins with another Letterman appearance. but to quote Harvey, “between the lump and loneliness… [he] never felt more like a sell-out hack.” Harvey dons an “On Strike Against NBC” shirt and the show goes downhill from there, winding up in chaos. Joyce finally, happily returns, but the scene ends ominously as she discovers Harvey’s lump. Josh & Dean are joined by Jeff “JahFurry” Newelt!

A discussion of GE, NBC, and corporate conglomerates, What Late Night with David Letterman meant to the panel. The revelation that Harvey had been offered his own TV show (which he turned down) — what would a Harvey Pekar talk show have been like? JahFury’s testimonial about Harvey’s importance as a jazz critic, enthusiast, and promoter of underdog greats. What have you publicly protested?

Shout-outs to The Robin Byrd Show, Al Goldstein, Midnight Blue, Johnny Carson, Benny Hill, Emil Heifetz, Ed Piskor, William Fogg, Joe Zabel, Gary Dumm, Gerry Shamray, Billy Dogma, The Red Hook, and the pros and cons of mayonnaise.

Sep 23, 201958:60
AS Bonus: JOE ZABEL Interview

AS Bonus: JOE ZABEL Interview

Josh & Dean chat with long-time American Splendor artist Joe Zabel. Joe talks about his years working with Harvey, the creativity he brought to the role of illustrator, his thoughts on the movie, and about how his first impression of American Splendor was that it was a sex comic (“Harvey Pecker”).

An in-depth examination of the creative process behind a number of memorable American Splendor stories. Joe explains how he came to realize that Harvey was a genus, American Splendor was literature, and that the film was an innovative, avant-garde movie in its own right. Debate: was Harvey an introvert?

Shout-outs to Youngstown State University, Subliminal Tattoos, Keyhole Comics, Robert Blake, Carlos Castaneda, the city of Cleveland, Bernie Shulman’s, Gary Dumm, Gerry Shamray, Joe Sacco, and Val Mayerik.

Sep 19, 201954:30
AS24: Startin' to Lose It

AS24: Startin' to Lose It

American Splendor scene #24 (1:10:45 to 1:14:55) — The scene opens back at Shay’s Diner. Another patron recognizes Harvey from the Letterman show — but not for the right reasons. Our man is angry and unfulfilled. Meanwhile, Joyce is looking for fulfillment of her own — as a creator and as an activist. Against Harvey’s wishes, she goes away to a peace conference, leaving him at loose ends. One lonely night, Harvey discovers a mysterious lump; his fear and loneliness are directed outward.

Harvey’s co-dependency; Need vs. Love. How the fact that this film was written/directed by a husband-and-wife team really comes into play here. An in-depth discussion of shading film and other Old School toning techniques. What do Robin Williams, Jack Clark, Bucky Dent, Mister Rogers, and Busta Rhymes all have in common? Fame vs. integrity, turning down jobs, and being mistaken for a celebrity. Spending time apart from your spouse. When Josh started doing trips with the U.S. State Dept. Standing up for what you believe in: how Josh's passion to help victims after Hurricane Katrina gave him a focus for the kinds of comics stories he wanted to tell.

Sep 16, 201952:11
AS23: Late Night with Harvey Pekar (with Ed Piskor)

AS23: Late Night with Harvey Pekar (with Ed Piskor)

American Splendor scene #23 (1:02:32 to 1:10:44) — The scene shifts to the Warwick Hotel, New York City, as Harvey and Joyce prepare for his appearance on Late Night with David Letterman! Despite himself, Harvey is a hit on the show and comes back for multiple appearances. Meanwhile, Toby becomes an MTV star. This episode we are joined by special guest cartoonist Ed Piskor!

Ed talks about how he discovered American Splendor, his appreciation of the anthology nature of the film, and his relationship with Harvey, including working on projects like Macedonia and The Beats. He gives a rundown on his career, including  Hip-Hop Family Tree, X-Men: Grand Design, future projects, and Cartoonist Kayfabe. Also: some in-depth discussion of Hollywood Bob.

Shout-outs to Harvey Pekar dolls, Wizard magazine, Comic Book Confidential, "Palmer’s Picks," Howard Stern & Pig Vomit, VCRs, Kazaa, Napster, burning sage, conspiracy theories, the Iran/Contra Affair, Gerry Shamray, Drew Friedman, Walden Books,  Origins of Marvel Comics, Heather Roberson, Troma films, Jack Hanna, Terrence Sullivan, Heather Locklear, Jerry Seinfeld, professional wrestling, Evan Wilson, Chris Claremont, Alan Moore’s mysticism, swarms of flies, and never saying NO to freelance work.

Sep 09, 201901:15:01
AS22: Delusions of Grandeur (with Whitney Matheson & Eytan Mirsky)

AS22: Delusions of Grandeur (with Whitney Matheson & Eytan Mirsky)

American Splendor scene #22 (56:33 to 1:02:31) — “Westward Ho!” Harvey & Joyce travel to L.A. to see American Splendor: The Play. Things are finally breaking Harvey’s way. But his ascendancy is complicated by Joyce’s emotional struggles. She wants… a family. Guest Whitney Matheson returns! And this episode features an interview with singer-songwriter Eytan Mirsky, who appears and sings in the film.

The actual history of the various American Splendor stage productions. What is "polymorphously perverse"? How Eytan auditioned for the role of Harvey! The hosts talk about the decision to have (or NOT not) children. Dean's career as a playwright. What phone call changed your life? What would you title your “life's play”? How Seinfeld reruns got Whitney out of bed, and eventually to a very special one-on-one interview.

Shout-outs to DVD easter eggs, Donal Logue, Molly Shannon, Dan Castellaneta, R. Crumb & His Cheap Suit Serenaders, Josh Neufeld & The Seven Stooges, Dean's biological daughter Ruby, piggyback rides, and "po-ta-to chips.”

Sep 02, 201901:18:42
AS21: Revenge of the Nerds part II: Signs of Trouble (with Whitney Matheson)

AS21: Revenge of the Nerds part II: Signs of Trouble (with Whitney Matheson)

American Splendorscene #21 (53:50 to 56:33) — Harvey, Joyce, and Toby emerge from a screening of Revenge of the Nerds. Joyce finds it inspiring — Harvey finds it insipid. Back at their apartment, Joyce struggles with feeling at home amidst all of Harvey’s stuff. Special guest: pop culture writer Whitney Matheson!

The pros & cons of Revenge of the Nerds. The first time Whitney met Harvey. Diagnosing vs. judging. Which movie characters did you identify with as a kid? The many movies of European director “Ray Dedarr.” Moving in to someone else’s life.

Shout-outs to the DSM-III, the comedic talents of Hope Davis, Harvey Pekar's Macedonia, USA Today's "Pop Candy," and weird girls.

Aug 26, 201950:20
AS20: What Kind of Girl Is Your New Bride?

AS20: What Kind of Girl Is Your New Bride?

American Splendor scene #20 (52:19 to 53:50) — the real Harvey and Joyce sit in a fake comic book store, with a pile of American Splendors on the table between them. Joyce talks about what it was like to become a character in Harvey’s stories. Tension is in the air. A machine gun sounds in the distance.

The scene's cringe-factor. Doom & gloom — and finding the right balance between happy & sad moments. Creative partnerships and being each other’s toughest critic. Being willing — or not — to "bare it all" in autobiographical writing. Josh & Sari's collaborations and how that worked, both on the page and emotionally. Dean & Jen's "origin story.”

Shout-outs to Joe Sacco, Joe Zabel, Val Mayerik, Ivan Brunetti, Avengers: Endgame, Josh & Sari’s “The Cave of Fear,” Dino’s “Next Door Neighbor" project, Blue Ribbon restaurant, David Greenberger, Duplex Planet Illustrated, and “I Was Waiting For You, Daddy.”

Aug 19, 201932:22
AS Bonus: World Champion JUDAH FRIEDLANDER Interview

AS Bonus: World Champion JUDAH FRIEDLANDER Interview

Josh & Dean chat with comedian and actor Judah Friedlander, who plays Toby Radloff in the movie. Judah discusses how he got the role, hanging with the real Toby, being unrecognizable, and his key scenes in the film. He also talks 30 Rock, those unique trucker hats, his role on Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Hollywood, politics, the life of a stand-up comic, and his Netflix specials. Nearly a full hour of Judah goodness!

Shout-outs to George & Leonardo DiCaprio, thrift shopping, political/historical graphic novels, B. Kliban, Darren Aronofsky, Phil Tippett, J.J. Abrams, “Doom & Gloom,” and Judah’s book If The Raindrops United.

Aug 15, 201955:58
AS19: Escape (Revenge of the Nerds Part I)

AS19: Escape (Revenge of the Nerds Part I)

American Splendor scene #19 (49:08 to 52:18) — It’s one week later, and (a strangely chipper) Harvey sees Toby sitting in his car, the dashboard covered in White Castle sliders. Toby is on his way to Toledo to see the new movie Revenge of the Nerds. Meanwhile, Harvey is on his way to Delaware to marry Joyce and help her move out to Cleveland. Harvey steals Toby’s fries. Rupert Holmes sings “Escape (The Pina Colada Song).”

An appreciation of Judah Friedlander's performance as Toby. Thoughts on Revenge of the Nerds, bullying, and nerd culture. A thorough discussion of White Castle hamburgers and junk food burgers in general. Debate — the sports fan vs. the sports nerd. How Sari proposed to Josh (yes, it’s true!), Josh’s evolving beliefs about marriage, and their subsequent commitment ceremony.

Shout-outs to spontaneous choking moments, native Clevelander Jason R. Wright and his AS shooting locations Google doc, Oberlin’s Apollo Theater, the movies Purple Rain and Inception, Where’s the beef?, Nathan's Chow Mein on a Bun, Route 80 and long-haul driving, and Dino’s unique bullying methods.

Aug 12, 201942:56
 AS Bonus: Genuine Nerd TOBY RADLOFF

AS Bonus: Genuine Nerd TOBY RADLOFF

Josh & Dean chat with Toby Radloff, a key figure in both American Splendor the comic and the movie. (Josh illustrated a couple of Toby Radloff stories.) Toby talks about working with Harvey Pekar at the VA Hospital, what the job of a file clerk was, and hanging with Harvey on weekends. He discusses what it felt like to be a character in American Splendor, and his "delusions of grandeur" after appearing on MTV and in the Killer Nerd films. Toby weighs in on his favorite moments in the film and Judah Friedlander's portrayal of him. The interview concludes with Toby's touching tribute to Harvey, and a mention of the various Cleveland monuments to Pekar's legacy.

Shout-outs to hot summer days, blackouts, squirrels, Revenge of the Nerds, Redbox, White Castle hamburgers, Mad Men, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Gerry Shamray, Sean Carroll, Ed Wesolowski, and Jeff Newelt ("Nevelt").

Aug 08, 201930:04
AS18: Skipping the Whole Courtship Thing

AS18: Skipping the Whole Courtship Thing

American Splendor scene #18 (44:33 to 49:07) — Harvey takes Joyce to his apartment, where it is abundantly clear that he has a “serious problem with cleanliness.” Joyce shrugs if off, and they sit down on the couch and begin to get… intimate. Suddenly Joyce is overcome with a bout of nausea and vomiting. A concerned Harvey offers her chamomile tea. Charmed, Joyce suggests they “skip the whole courtship thing and get married”!

An extended discussion of disgusting living situations, dirty dishes, cockroaches, cats and their status as “gods,” and the sacrifices people make when moving in together (and in relationships in general). Topped off by the story of Dino’s NSFW adventures on Nerve.com and the time he almost became the “diddle to her fiddle.”

Shout-outs to Val Mayerik, Gary Dumm, WD-40, The Quitter, Josh’s brother-in-law (one of them), the Dianoga from Star Wars, Star Wars Minute, SPX, Neil Young’s “A Man Needs a Maid”, Harvey’s metal plant, flea markets, Jake Elsas and Jake’s cat Flotsam, Virginia Woolf (“A Room of Her Own”), A Few Perfect Hours, Friends, Tinder, blackouts, Black Kiss, Gina Cole, Trip City, Sentient Brooklyn, and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre!

Aug 05, 201941:27
AS17: A Burp, a Whistle, and a Cough (with Val Mayerik)

AS17: A Burp, a Whistle, and a Cough (with Val Mayerik)

American Splendor scene #17 (41:38 to 44:32) — Joyce travels to Cleveland to meet Harvey in person — but will he be a “hairy ape” or a “young Brando?” The real Harvey sidles into frame. His opening line? "You might as well know right off the bat, I had a vasectomy.” The date begins with a handshake and dinner at a local family restaurant.

Josh & Dean talk to special guest Val Mayerik about his five years as one of American Splendor’s primary artists, his thoughts on Harvey and his work, and the question if there is any connection between Cleveland icons Harvey Pekar and Howard the Duck!

Vegetarianism, self-diagnosing, and hypochondria. An appreciation of Hope Davis (and her wig). Dean & Josh talk comics production — cutting & pasting before PhotoShop, and computer lettering vs. hand lettering. When Josh took out a personal ad... and now it can be told: Dean & his mom were on JOSH's first date with his future wife. Shout-outs to Drew Friedman, Gary Dumm, Joe Zabel, Upstart Studios (Chaykin & Simonson), Ken Bruzenak, John Workman, Gary Leib & Twinkle, the Teen Titans & the X-Men, Sari Wilson, The Nation magazine’s personals ads, and Tofu Sam!

Jul 29, 201901:17:11
AS16: Dear Mister Pekar

AS16: Dear Mister Pekar

American Splendor scene #16 (37:11 to 41:37) — Meanwhile in Delaware, Joyce Brabner is frustrated with her partner in the comic store, who has sold her copy of American Splendor #8 out from under her. Why does everything in her life have to be such a complicated disaster?! She writes to Harvey, he responds, and they soon discover they are kindred spirits. Phone conversations spark the beginning of a romance, and Harvey convinces Joyce to come to Cleveland to meet him in person.

A short history of comic book letter columns and the professional jobs & private romances sparked by them. Inviting strangers to stay at your house. Long-distance crushes, personal ads, and online dating. Forming meaningful connections with your readers. Dino's anecdote of the blue pencil. Shout-outs to Comix Book and Chinatown’s Wo Hop restaurant!

Jul 22, 201941:02
AS15: Alice Quinn and Jennie Gerhardt

AS15: Alice Quinn and Jennie Gerhardt

American Splendor scene #15 (32:27 to 37:10) — The short weekend begins with longing… Harvey is picking up donuts and day-old bread at the bakery when he runs into Alice Quinn, a woman he briefly knew in college. They catch up on each other’s lives and talk about Theodore Dreiser’s novel Jennie Gerhardt. Harvey leaves their encounter feeling more alone than ever before — “life seems so sweet, and so sad…”

Comics about ordinary life vis-a-vis the “TV show about nothing” — were the creators of Seinfeld inspired by American Splendor? An extended comparison of the original comics story to the filmed scene. (Plus a callback to “average is dumb”!) How to talk to the opposite sex. A tribute to the real Harvey Pekar’s voiceover “acting.” Fancy donuts and gourmet jellybeans. Shout-outs to Jerry Seinfeld, Larry David, Sue Cavey, Maggie Moore, The Deer Hunter, and The Quitter.

Jul 15, 201942:01
AS14: Jellybeans, Lentils, and Lent

AS14: Jellybeans, Lentils, and Lent

American Splendor scene #14 (27:32 to 32:26) — Our most authentic episode to date! And the next thing, it’s the 80s… Harvey has published eight issues of American Splendor to critical acclaim but little financial gain. He’s still a “flunky file clerk.“ Toby stops by to offer Harvey some gourmet jelly beans. Before you know it, the film gets META as the real Harvey crosses paths with Paul Giamatti and the real Toby Radloff crosses paths with Judah Friedlander!

What if there was a Harvey Pekar Award in comics? How nuns get their names. Critical success vs. commercial success. The question of Toby Radloff and existential loneliness. Shout-outs to Gerry Shamray, Sean Carroll, Soho Zat, Chester Brown/Yummy Fur, Joe Sacco, Maya Neyestani, the Angouleme Comics Festival, and the JLA/JSA crossovers of the 1980s!

Jul 08, 201944:05
AS13: From Off the Streets of Cleveland

AS13: From Off the Streets of Cleveland

American Splendor scene #13  (23:46 to 27:31) — This episode opens with a montage of classic Pekar quotidian moments and culminates with Harvey proudly showing off American Splendor #1 to his co-workers. It concludes with the real Harvey talking about how he comes up with his stories. Mr. Boats returns and Toby Radloff appears for the first time…

The joys & challenges of getting “professionally” published. A fuller discussion of “semi-auto-bio” and the choices required to form real life into compelling stories. Shout-outs to Keyhole, A.D., Bored to Death, and AS artists R. Crumb, Greg Budgett, Gary Dumm, and Brian Bram.

Jul 01, 201934:04
AS12: Words and Pictures (with James Urbaniak)

AS12: Words and Pictures (with James Urbaniak)

American Splendor scene #12  (20:21 to 23:45) — Inspired, Harvey stays up all night writing. At a diner with Crumb, Harv makes a pitch for a new kind of comics. He shows Bob the scripts he’s been working on — and Bob offers to illustrate them for him! Plus: an interview with actor James Urbaniak, who plays the role of Robert Crumb in the film!

A discussion about the pros & cons of creative collaborations. Do Harvey Pekar’s artists get enough credit? The great lunchroom fight of 1984! Shout-outs to Stan Lee, John Byrne, Terry Austin, Raymond Carver, and Jay McShann (again).

Jun 24, 201901:01:37
AS11: Standing Behind Old Jewish Ladies in Supermarket Lines

AS11: Standing Behind Old Jewish Ladies in Supermarket Lines

American Splendor scene #11  (17:51 to 20:20) — Harvey is doing some grocery shopping when he is confronted with a conundrum about which line to wait on — the long but speedy one, or the short one with the old Jewish lady in front? Out of nowhere, Harvey’s animated subconscious — drawn in an R. Crumb manner — pops up to help guide his decision. “Are you going to stand there in silence, or are you going to make a mark?” Another new wrinkle in this unusual film!

How Harvey’s artists did the “acting” in his comics. Did Harvey ever object to something Josh or Dean illustrated, and did Harvey keep some artists on a shorter leash? How the artists in the Vertigo series near the end of Harvey’s career/life were more stylized than the typical A.S. artists of yore. Were Harvey’s earlier stories better than his later work (which leads to a discussion of “later work” in general)? An extended compare-and-contrast session about the original comic that inspired the scene. The differences between cartoons and comics, and what they require of the watcher/reader.

Shout-outs to animators Gary Leib, Doug Allen, and John Kuramoto of Twinkle. Also to Vito Delsante, Prince, Stanley Kubrick, Neil Simon, Woody Allen, Love & Rockets, and Idiotland.

Jun 17, 201931:32
AS10: Give It Up!

AS10: Give It Up!

American Splendor scene #10 (16:24 to 17:51) — a sobering moment in the VA hospital’s “deceased” files section leads Harvey to try drawing his own stories. Short on ideas, he flips through some old comics, including an issue of Dr. Quake. But the message he receives is… “GIVE IT UP!” Dino’s art featured this scene!

“Did you really believe brass and brawn could derail your destiny with fate?” — more behind-the-scenes details about how Dino connected producer Ted Hope with Harvey & Joyce, and how Dino’s art ended up in the movie. A discussion about why Harvey chose to make his mark via comics, as opposed to any other medium. Harvey's scripts — did he wrote his stories in a stream-of-consciousness manner or did he plan them out? Stick-figure comics: a shout-out to Matt Feazell’s Cynicalmanand Randall Munroe’s XKCD.

Jun 10, 201932:34
AS9: Back to '75...

AS9: Back to '75...

American Splendor scene #9 (14:32 to 16:23) — The flashback is over, and a famous but disillusioned Crumb is back in Cleveland for a visit. He and our man hang out at a random bus stop while Crumb sketches. His marriage over, Harvey is lonely and frustrated — he wants to leave a mark on the world. Harvey doesn’t buy all this “growth crap” — he’d be glad to trade some growth for happiness!

An appreciation of Urbaniak’s Crumb. The revelation that Pekar had actually written a few “underground” comics stories — some illustrated by Crumb — going back to 1972. What were the comics that made you want to become a cartoonist? The “healthy energizing competition” of Dean & Josh’s high school comics club. Josh’s transition from mainstream/superhero comics to alternative comics. Dino as multi-dimensional storyteller: “a testament to life.” 

Shout-outs to musicians Blind Lemon Jefferson, Big Mama Thornton, Jay McShann (again); comics creators George Pérez, John Byrne, Howard Chaykin, Frank Miller, Walt Simonson, Michael Golden, Roger Stern, and Neal Adams; and writer/filmmakers Woody Allen, Todd Solodnz, and Jonathan Ames!

Jun 03, 201928:44
AS8: Bob and Harv

AS8: Bob and Harv

American Splendor scene #8 (12:27 to 14:32) — It's still 1962, and Harvey and Bob are chillin' at the Pekar pad. Scratchy jazz tunes play on the turntable. Harvey admires Crumb's Big Yum Yum Book, but grows frustrated with Crumb's apparent lack of ambition ("It's just an exercise"). Still, a friendship is formed over a shared love of jazz and comics.

Pekar & Crumb as friends before they were artistic collaborators. The simple pleasures of reading and listening to music with friends — when socializing and technology were not so intertwined. The merits (and drawbacks) of technical pens. Crumb's underground work and Josh's premature exposure to it. Will Josh ever do his "Crumb comic"? Collaboration vis-a-vis doing your own thing. Drawing other people...

May 27, 201938:20
AS7: A Rare Find, 1962 (with Eli Ganias)

AS7: A Rare Find, 1962 (with Eli Ganias)

American Splendor scene #7 (11:11 to 12:17) — Flashback to 1962. A fateful encounter: while searching for old records at a yard sale, Harvey meets shy greeting card illustrator (and comic book collector) Bob Crumb. Special guest: actor Eli Ganias, who plays the role of Pahls in the film!

Marty Pahls and "Marty & Pahls" — the real man who introduced Pekar to Crumb (and married one of Crumb's sisters). Bits from "The Young Crumb Story"... Eli Ganias' juicy behind-the-scenes stories: "arm-around" on the cutting room floor, trailer talk, accents, the other actors, and much more. Eli’s prior knowledge (or lack thereof) of the American Splendor comic book (“a lot of text"). Shout-out to Dean's HariKari Kane.

May 20, 201933:27
AS6: Demon Record Hustler

AS6: Demon Record Hustler

In American Splendor's sixth scene (10:00 to 11:11), the real Harvey Pekar sits at a fake yard sale, talking about his years as a used-record collector / salesman. Harvey's transition from collecting "sides" to collecting stories.

It's talk therapy for Josh & Dean as they discuss family issues related to collecting/hoarding. The pros & cons of collecting stamps, baseball cards, comics, and music. Creating an industry from your own collecting. From collecting to creating— collecting as "research." Shout-outs to the Treasure of the Sierra Madre, The Godfather, Marilyn Monroe, and Lester Young!

May 13, 201925:44
AS5: Jack the Bellboy and Mr. Boats

AS5: Jack the Bellboy and Mr. Boats

In American Splendor's fifth scene (8:00 to 10:00), it's a few months later. A depressed and lonely Harvey is at his flunky file clerk job at the V.A. hospital. Mr. Boats comes by to offer some poetic advice about women. The conversation turns to music, and then to Harvey's side gig as a used-record dealer. Mr. Boats accuses Harvey of not "turning loose the good stuff!"

Collier’s Disease, hoarding, “cat hoarding," and Harvey's tendency to “collect” misfits. The recurring character Mr. Boats (and his film portrayal by Earl Billings). “Jack the Bellboy” and Harvey's different personae. An appreciation of the research involved in mining previously unrelated American Splendor stories to guide the plot of the film. Finding the right medium in which to tell your story. “Semi-auto-bio” comix: authenticity and making stories from real life. Editors—oy! Note: this episode is 10% funnier than the previous one.

May 06, 201927:27
AS4: His Vow of Silence Begins

AS4: His Vow of Silence Begins

In American Splendor‘s fourth scene (6:06 to 8:00), Harvey's wife decides this "plebeian" lifestyle just isn't working for her anymore. Without being able to speak, our man is powerless to prevent her from leaving him. Poor Harvey!

Harvey's apartment sparks a conversation about "collecting" versus HOARDING. An appreciation of Paul Giamatti. The original American Splendor story — illustrated by Sue Cavey — that contributed to this scene, and its similarity to a singles ad ("Harvey on Tinder"). Josh's dramatic reading from the script initiates a discussion of storytelling and the filmmaking process. Dino caps off the episode with his own "American Dilemma" — a hilarious tale of competitiveness, frustration, practical jokes, and how he started working with Harvey.

Apr 29, 201932:59
AS3: Voice Trouble, 1975

AS3: Voice Trouble, 1975

In American Splendor‘s third scene (4:49 to 6:06), Harvey visits a throat doctor and exhibits a little hypochondria. Plus, he's having marital problems.

The boys correct an error from the previous episode. They talk about the original American Splendor story that inspired this segment, and the differences between the comic and the film. A discussion of the early issues of American Splendor and notable Pekar illustrator Gerry Shamray. Josh talks about his early artistic influences and how he first met and started working with Harvey. Dino and his shirts (or lack thereof). A comparison of the scene as it appeared in the in the script as opposed to how it played out on film.

Apr 22, 201934:51
AS2: Here's Our Man

AS2: Here's Our Man

American Splendor's second scene (1:24 to 4:49) introduces Paul Giamatti as Harvey Pekar, walking the gritty Cleveland streets, interwoven with the film's opening credits, all formatted to look like comic book panels. Then we meet the real Harvey Pekar in a faux behind-the-scenes documentary setup.

A discussion of American Splendor as a groundbreaking type of comic book — an alternative to both mainstream superhero comics and underground comix. Some information about writer/directors Shari Springer-Berman & Robert Pulcini, as well as the previous attempts to make an American Splendor film. Josh discusses making nonfiction comics, specifically journalistic comics and autobiography. The city as character: Harvey Pekar's Cleveland and Dean's stories of Brooklyn and Trip City.

Apr 15, 201939:15
AS1: 1950 — Our Story Begins

AS1: 1950 — Our Story Begins

AMERICAN SPLENDOR's prologue (0:00 to 1:24) opens in the year 1950. It’s Halloween and an 11-year-old Harvey Pekar refuses to be a superhero. Josh & Dean introduce themselves and the show before diving into the scene, with memories of past Halloween costumes, as well as LaGuardia High School, which both hosts attended. A spirited discussion about Harvey Pekar — the man and the legend — and his influence on Dean & Josh. Plus, some background on Josh’s career as a nonfiction cartoonist.

Feb 17, 201935:53
February 16, 2019

February 16, 2019

Feb 16, 201900:59