Big Trouble in Little China - Verbal Diorama

Episode 85

Big Trouble in Little China

Published on: 4th March, 2021

In the first of March's look into cult movie classics, Big Trouble in Little China nowadays looks like a movie that should have been destined for success.

It had the capable charismatic hero, and Kurt Russell playing the guy who thinks he's the hero. Throw in the damsels in distress, creepy villain, ancient sorcery, high-action martial arts choreography and Chinese mythology and mysticism, and it makes no sense that it flopped at the box office.

Unlike most '80s movie where Chinese characters were cliched tropes, Big Trouble in Little China, with its primarily Asian cast, at least attempts to respect Chinese myths and legends.

Just remember, if you need a green-eyed girl to break your centuries-old curse, don't be like David Lo Pan, get her consent before the marriage ceremony!

The parody of Gangnam Style I mentioned is Lo Pan Style and it's hilarious!

I would love to hear your thoughts on Big Trouble in Little China!

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Theme Music: Verbal Diorama Theme Song

Music by Chloe Enticott - Compositions by Chloe Facebook

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About the Podcast

Verbal Diorama
The award-winning podcast celebrating the history and legacy of movies you know, and movies you don't.
The award-winning podcast celebrating the history and legacy of movies you know, and movies you don't.

Have you ever wondered how your favourite movies were made? Hosted by Em, Verbal Diorama takes you behind the scenes to discover the extraordinary stories of cast and crew who bring movies to life.

Movies are tough to make, and this podcast proves how amazing it is that they actually exist. From Hollywood classics to hidden gems, each episode explores the history, legacy, and untold stories that make cinema magic.

Ear Worthy 2024 Best Movie Podcast Winner | Golden Lobes 2025 Earworm Award Nominee | Ear Worthy 2025 Best Movie Podcast Nominee

New episodes weekly. Subscribe now on your favourite podcast app.
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About your host

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Em .

Hi! I'm Em. I created Verbal Diorama in 2018, and launched the podcast in February 2019 to rapturous applause and acclaim.... from my cat Jess.

The modus operandi of Verbal Diorama is simple: movies are tough to make! The coming together of a team of people from all walks of life to make something to entertain, delight and educate us for 90+ mins is not an easy task, and yet so many succeed at it. That must be something to celebrate.

I'm here to do just that - to celebrate movies. Their history and legacy, and why they remain so special to so many of us.

Episodes are audibly book ended by Jess. She sadly passed away in March 2022, aged almost 18. She featured in many episodes of the podcast, and that's why you can hear her at the end of every episode. The role of official feline producer is now held by the comparatively quieter Evie and Peggy.

I love podcasts, and listen to many, but never my own.

I unashamedly love The Mummy (1999) and Grease 2. I'm still looking for a cool rider.