Review It Yourself

Inside the mind of a Nazi—and the psychiatrist who studied him.In this powerful episode of Review It Yourself, Sean sits down with acclaimed author and journalist Jack El-Hai to discuss his gripping and deeply researched book, The Nazi and the Psychiatrist.This is not just another Second World War/World War II book review. It’s a psychological investigation into evil, power, ego, and moral reckoning at the aftermath of history’s darkest chapter.A Psychological Duel at NurembergIn The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, Jack El-Hai explores the extraordinary relationship between Hermann Goering, the highest-ranking Nazi captured alive, and Douglas M. Kelley, the U.S. Army psychiatrist tasked with evaluating him during the Nuremberg Trials.During our conversation, we unpack:How Kelley psychologically assessed leading Nazi defendantsWhy Goering fascinated and manipulated those around himThe concept of the “banality of evil” in practiceThe absence of a single psychiatric diagnosis to explain atrocityThe moral and professional toll the Nuremberg experience took on KelleyWhy these questions still resonate todayJack reveals how Kelley’s pioneering psychological work challenged simplistic narratives about madness and evil — and how America struggled to process the uncomfortable conclusions.Why The Nazi and the Psychiatrist Matters NowWith the upcoming 2025 film Nuremberg renewing interest in this story, El-Hai’s book has never been more relevant.In a world still grappling with extremism, ideology, and the psychology of power, this episode asks:Are monsters born—or made?Can ordinary individuals commit extraordinary evil?What responsibility does psychology bear in interpreting history?About Our Guest: Jack El-HaiJack El-Hai is an award-winning author and journalist specialising in narrative non-fiction, medical history, crime, and ethics.📘 Featured BookThe Nazi and the Psychiatrist: Hermann Goering, Dr. Douglas M. Kelley, and a Fatal Meeting of MindsOriginally published in 2013, the book examines the psychological chess match between Goering and Kelley — and its tragic aftermath.🔎 Learn More & Connect🌐 Website: https://www.jackelhai.com🐦 Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jackelhaiJack also discusses his ongoing commitment to telling stories rooted in justice, ethics, and the darker corners of history.If you’re interested in World War II history, the Nuremberg Trials, forensic psychology, or the moral complexity of historical biography, this book is essential reading.Why You Should Listen to This EpisodeThis episode of Review It Yourself delivers:A thoughtful, in-depth author interviewInsight into the psychology of Nazi leadershipHistorical analysis grounded in primary researchA discussion on how history is interpreted — and misinterpretedReflection on how the past informs our presentPerfect for listeners interested in:World War II historyHolocaust studiesNuremberg TrialsPsychology and ethicsHistorical biographiesFollow, Contact & Support Review It YourselfIf you value independent, honest book and film reviews without corporate spin:🎙️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and all major platforms⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it helps more than you know📧 Email the show: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com📲 Follow Review It Yourself on your favourite social media platformFind us here: Instagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021Twitter/X: @YourselfReviewThreads: reviewityourselfpodcast2021BlueSky: @reviewityourself.bsky.social‬Support the PodcastReview It Yourself is proudly independent.You can support the show by:🔁 Sharing this episode with fellow film, history and psychology enthusiasts📝 Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyYour support keeps independent podcasting alive.Listen now to this compelling discussion with Jack El-Hai — and decide for yourself what The Nazi and the Psychiatrist reveals about evil, responsibility, and the human condition.

Violence escalates, loyalties fracture, justice turns brutally personal.In Part Two of their deep dive into The Untouchables, Sean and co-host Sarah break down the explosive second half of Brian De Palma’s Prohibition-era crime classic. If Part One explored myth-making and morality, this episode tackles consequence, sacrifice, and the film’s unforgettable climax.From the emotional weight of Sean Connery’s Oscar-winning performance to the operatic violence that defines De Palma’s directing style, we analyse how the story of Eliot Ness versus Al Capone reaches its dramatic peak.We explore the tension between justice and revenge, the cost of incorruptibility, and whether the film earns its legendary status among gangster cinema greats.Starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, this 1987 crime epic blends Hollywood spectacle with historical myth.But does the courtroom finale deliver? Does the violence feel operatic or excessive? And does The Untouchables still hold up for modern audiences?In this episode, we discuss:The emotional impact of Malone’s arcThe morality of Ness’s final choicesThe famous Union Station sequence and De Palma’s visual storytellingThe balance between historical fact and cinematic legendWhether The Untouchables deserves its classic statusIf you’re searching for:The Untouchables 1987 reviewThe Untouchables podcast discussionBrian De Palma film analysisSean Connery Oscar performance breakdownGangster movie deep dive podcast…this episode delivers sharp film criticism, humour, debate, and honest takes.Sarah returns as co-host for this two-part breakdown. (No external projects to plug this week—just pure film conversation and classic cinema appreciation.)Why Listen?Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Untouchables or revisiting it decades later, this episode will make you rethink its themes, performances, and cultural legacy. Expect passionate disagreement, strong opinions, and thoughtful analysis of one of the most iconic crime films of the 1980s.If you enjoy deep-dive movie reviews, classic film discussion, and spirited debate — this is the podcast for you.Please Note: There are direct quotes used in this review, which include the use of contextual slurs/stereotypes. These are used purely as quotes from the film and to aid discussion, as the film's dialogue reflects the bigoted, harsh atmosphere of 1930's Prohibition-Era Chicago. There is no intention to cause offence or distress.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected and join the conversation:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comWe love hearing your thoughts, episode suggestions, and hot takes.Support the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself and want to help us grow:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platformLeave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts (this massively boosts discoverability)Share this episode on social mediaRecommend the podcast to fellow film fansYour support helps the show reach new listeners and continue producing in-depth film reviews every week.Listen now and decide for yourself: is this crime epic truly untouchable?

Travel millions of years into the future with this classic sci-fi reviewIn this episode of Review It Yourself, we jump into one of the most influential science-fiction films ever made: The Time Machine (1960). Inspired by the legendary novel by H.G. Wells, this classic movie helped shape the way audiences imagine time travel on screen.Sarah returns to the podcast after her holiday (and a memorable rant about the state of air travel), joining the discussion as we explore the timeless ideas behind this iconic film. From the eerie future world of the Eloi and the Morlocks to the ground-breaking practical effects that brought time travel to life, this episode dives deep into why The Time Machine (1960) still matters today.We also talk about the themes beneath the surface:The film’s commentary on class division and humanity’s futureThe fascinating design of the Morlocks and Eloi societiesThe enduring appeal of practical effects and classic sci-fi filmmakingWhether the story still resonates with modern audiencesComparisons with the later Time Machine adaptations, including the 2002 version starring Guy PearceIf you love classic science fiction, time travel stories, or thoughtful film discussions, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and a fresh perspective on a genre-defining movie.In This EpisodeWhy The Time Machine (1960) became a sci-fi classicThe influence of H.G. Wells’ original novelThe disturbing future vision of the Eloi and MorlocksHow the film’s special effects were ahead of their timeA discussion of the story’s deeper social commentaryWhy time travel stories continue to fascinate audiencesRecommended ReadingIf you enjoyed this episode, check out the original novel:The Time Machine by H.G. Wells – the ground-breaking sci-fi story that inspired the film and shaped the time-travel genre.Follow & Contact Review It Yourself:Stay connected with the podcast and join the conversation:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, please consider supporting the show:Follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast platformLeave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare the episode with friends who love film and TV discussionsTag the podcast on social media and join the debateYour support helps more listeners discover the show and keeps new episodes coming.

Evil never dies: deep dive into Halloween’s legacy and lore! In this electrifying episode of Review It Yourself, we explore the terrifying brilliance and enduring cultural impact of the Halloween franchise — from Halloween (1978) to Halloween Ends (2022), and every film in-between!— with journalist and author Andrew Graves, author of 'Horror in Haddonfield: The Untold Stories of Halloween'.If you’re a horror fan, a lover of film history, or fascinated by long-running movie franchises, this episode is essential listening.A passionate deep dive into the Halloween franchiseAndrew Graves, author of Horror in Haddonfield, joins Sean for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation about one of the most iconic horror series, Halloween.We explore:The psychology and legacy of Michael MyersWhy Dr. Loomis (played by Donald Pleasence) is just as essential as The Shape himselfThe evolution of Laurie Strode, immortalised by Jamie Lee CurtisThe highs, the controversies, and the reinventions across the entire Halloween timelineHonest thoughts on Halloween (2018), Halloween Kills (2021), and Halloween Ends (2022).The Nights He Never Came Home: Unrealised Halloween filmsThis isn’t just a review — it’s a celebration and critical examination of horror cinema, franchise storytelling, and what keeps audiences returning to Haddonfield decade after decade.About the Guest: Andrew GravesAndrew Graves is a journalist and horror author whose book Horror in Haddonfield serves as a comprehensive love letter to the Halloween series. The book dives into untold stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and deep franchise analysis — essential reading for fans of slasher cinema and horror history.📖 Get the BookSearch Horror in Haddonfield by Andrew Graves on major book retailers including Amazon and independent bookstores.🎙 Follow Andrew GravesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.grevas/Twitter/X: @AndrewGrevasContact: Andrew@25YLMedia.comWhy This Episode MattersThe Halloween franchise isn’t just a horror series — it’s a blueprint for modern slasher films. From its minimalist score to its atmospheric tension, its influence can still be felt across contemporary horror.In this episode we explore:The importance of Dr. Loomis as the moral and psychological anchor of the franchiseHow franchise storytelling survives actor changes and timeline resetsWhat makes Michael Myers such an enduring symbol of evilWhether later sequels honour or undermine the original visionWhether you agree, disagree, or just love hearing horror fans passionately debate — this is the kind of conversation you’d have if you ran into your mates at the pub after a Halloween marathon.Listen, Follow & Support Review It YourselfIf you enjoy Film reviews without the faff, make sure you stay connected:📲 Follow on Social MediaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021📧 Email the Showreviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comGot a film you want reviewed? Want to collaborate? Get in touch.Support the PodcastIf you love what you hear:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platformLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help more horror fans discover the showShare the episode with fellow Halloween devoteesRecommend the podcast on social mediaYour support keeps Review It Yourself independent, growing, and proudly faff-free.If you’re searching for:Halloween franchise analysisHorror film deep divesMichael Myers character breakdownDr. Loomis appreciationHalloween book recommendationsHorror podcast discussions— this episode delivers all that and more.Press play… because evil doesn’t die tonight — or any night.

Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!In this electrifying episode of Review It Yourself, we bust ghosts and break down the timeless supernatural comedy classic Ghostbusters — joined by special guest Rob from 'How Haunted? Podcast'.If you love 80s movies, paranormal investigations, horror-comedy crossovers, or in-depth film analysis, this is the Ghostbusters podcast episode you’ve been waiting for.Rob brings real paranormal podcasting experience to the discussion, giving a unique perspective on hauntings, scepticism, and how Ghostbusters blends supernatural lore with sharp comedy. Together, we explore whether the film still stands as the gold standard for horror-comedy — and why it continues to influence pop culture decades later.Why Ghostbusters Still Works Today:From iconic performances and endlessly quotable dialogue to ground-breaking practical effects, Ghostbusters isn’t just nostalgia — it’s cinematic lightning in a bottle.In this episode, we discuss:The genius of the character dynamics and comedic timingHow the film balances horror, sci-fi, and comedyThe portrayal of paranormal investigation vs “real” hauntingsThe cultural impact of Ghostbusters on film and fandomWhether modern audiences still connect with itIf you’re searching for:A Ghostbusters 1984 review podcastA horror comedy film analysisA paranormal perspective on Ghostbusters80s movie breakdownsYou’ve found your people.About Our Guest – Rob from How Haunted?Rob Kirkup is the host of How Haunted?, a podcast exploring real-life paranormal encounters, strange phenomena, and unexplained experiences. With a balanced and open-minded approach, Rob examines ghost stories and supernatural reports with curiosity and grounded analysis.🎙 Listen to How Haunted? Podcast wherever you get your podcasts📲 Follow and connect via social media by searching How Haunted? Podcast 📩 For listener stories and enquiries, reach out through the podcast’s website: https://www.how-haunted.com/If you’re fascinated by real hauntings, ghost stories, and paranormal investigations, make sure to check out Rob’s showFollow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.☕ Support the Show:If you enjoy the content, you can support Review It Yourself by leaving a 5-star review or sharing the episode with friends.Follow for episode updates and film discussionsMessage with film suggestions, collaboration ideas, or feedbackYour ratings, reviews, and shares directly support the growth of independent podcasting.Whether you’re a die-hard Ghostbusters fan, a paranormal enthusiast, or someone who just loves smart film analysis, this episode delivers humour, nostalgia, and thoughtful discussion in equal measure.Because sometimes the only way to truly appreciate a classic… is to Review It Yourself.

Deep-sea Exploration, Titanic dives and life on the ocean floor.In this extraordinary episode of Review It Yourself, we dive into the real-world adventures of legendary deep-sea explorer and diver Dik Barton — a man who has descended to historic wrecks including RMS Titanic and worked on the raising of the Mary Rose.From extreme underwater conditions to the emotional reality of visiting one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks, this episode explores what it’s truly like to work where history rests: on the ocean floor.If you’re searching for Titanic diving stories, deep-sea exploration insights, or first-hand accounts from historic wreck dives, this conversation delivers authenticity, expertise, and unforgettable moments.What It’s Really Like Diving to Titanic!Most people know Titanic through films and documentaries. Few have been on the seabed beside her.Dik Barton shares:The physical and psychological demands of deep-sea divingWhat it feels like approaching Titanic in darknessThe technology used in extreme underwater explorationThe dangers professional divers faceHis experiences working on the Mary Rose recovery projectLife lessons learned from decades beneath the surfaceThis episode blends maritime history, technical diving expertise, and personal storytelling into a gripping and human exploration of underwater discovery.History Beneath the Surface.Having worked on projects connected to both RMS Titanic and the raising of the Mary Rose, Dik offers rare insight into how underwater archaeology intersects with adventure, preservation, and respect for the past.This isn’t theory — it’s lived experience from someone who has operated in some of the most extreme environments on Earth.About Dik Barton:Dik Barton is a professional deep-sea diver, explorer, speaker and world adventurer. With decades of experience in commercial diving and historic wreck exploration, he brings unmatched credibility to discussions of maritime history and underwater operations.Connect with Dik Barton:Please see:Dik Barton's Website: https://dikbarton.com/This includes information about the Titanic Expert Club.White Star Heritage: https://whitestarheritage.com/Why You Should Listen.This episode is essential for anyone interested in:Titanic explorationDeep-sea diving careersUnderwater archaeologyMary Rose recovery historyReal-life extreme adventure storiesMaritime history interviewsIt’s a powerful, grounded discussion that moves beyond myths and into the lived reality of exploration.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more in-depth interviews and thoughtful discussions:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes your thoughts and topic suggestions.Every review and share helps grow the podcast and secure more fascinating expert guests.Descend into history. Experience the reality of deep-sea exploration.Thank You to Clifford Ismay.Correction: Sean was trying to recall Bill Sauder's description of the smell of artefacts "the smell that comes off it is perfectly alien, perfectly fetid, you know it's a kind of death you have never experienced", from a National Geographic documentary. Bill Maynard was an actor on Heartbeat who played Greengrass.

Did Abnormal Refraction Doom The Titanic?In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Review It Yourself, Sean sits down with renowned historian, author and TV presenter Tim Maltin to explore one of the most compelling alternative explanations behind the sinking of RMS Titanic — the Abnormal Refraction Theory.Drawing from his ground-breaking research in Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night, Tim explains how rare atmospheric conditions on 14 April 1912 may have distorted visibility in the North Atlantic. Could a natural optical illusion have delayed iceberg warnings, confused distress signals, and changed history forever?If you’re searching for Titanic history, Titanic iceberg theories, or scientific explanations behind the Titanic disaster — this episode delivers evidence, clarity, and serious debate.A Deceptive Night in the North AtlanticMost Titanic discussions focus on speed, lifeboat numbers, or Captain Smith’s decisions. But Tim Maltin’s research introduces a fascinating scientific dimension:What is abnormal atmospheric refraction?How can mirage effects alter visibility at sea?Did false horizons hide the iceberg?Were distress rockets misinterpreted due to optical distortion?Could this explain the mysterious “nearby ship” debate?Blending maritime history, meteorology and survivor testimony, this episode re-examines one of history’s most analysed disasters with fresh, data-driven insight.Whether you’re a Titanic enthusiast, maritime historian, or fan of investigative book discussions, this is essential listening.About Tim MaltinTim Maltin is a leading British historian specialising in maritime history and the RMS Titanic. His research has been featured in international documentaries and media investigations examining the science behind the sinking.Connect with Tim:Website: https://www.timmaltin.comX (Twitter): @TimMaltinBook: Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night (available worldwide via major retailers)If you want the full scientific and historical breakdown of this theory, his book is a must-read.Tim's Book Recommendations (which Sean has ordered):-'The Ship That Stood Still' by Leslie Reade.-'A Titanic Myth: The Californian Incident' by Leslie Harrison.Why This Episode MattersThis episode is perfect for listeners interested in:Titanic disaster analysisAlternative Titanic sinking theoriesMaritime optical illusions and miragesHistorical myth-bustingIn-depth book discussionsIt’s a compelling blend of science and storytelling that challenges what we think we know about Titanic’s final hours.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.Subscribe, Rate & Support the PodcastIf you enjoy independent, in-depth conversations like this:Subscribe on Apple PodcastsFollow on SpotifyLeave a 5-star rating and written reviewShare the episode with Titanic history fansRecommend Review It Yourself on social mediaEvery rating, review and share helps grow the podcast and bring more expert guests to the show.If this episode changed how you see the Titanic disaster, don’t keep it to yourself.Follow, subscribe, and join us next time on Review It Yourself — where we examine the stories you think you already know.

The forgotten liner that outshone Titanic in real life.What if the most dramatic story of the Olympic-class liners isn’t the one you’ve seen on film?In this fascinating episode of Review It Yourself, we uncover the extraordinary true story of RMS Olympic — the ship often overshadowed by her ill-fated sister, Titanic — but whose career was packed with mutiny, collisions, U-boats, innovation, and wartime heroics.Sean and maritime historian guest Mark Chirnside dive deep into the remarkable history behind his definitive book, RMS Olympic: Titanic's Sister. First published in 2004 and expanded in its 2015 second edition, this meticulously researched volume restores Olympic to her rightful place in maritime history.Far from being the “boring older sister,” Olympic earned the nickname “Old Reliable” for good reason. She survived a major collision with HMS Hawke, served with distinction during the First World War, transported thousands of troops, and even rammed and sank a German U-boat. While Titanic’s story has dominated popular culture, Olympic’s 24-year career tells a powerful story of resilience, adaptation, and maritime safety reform in the early 20th century.In this episode, we explore:Why Olympic has been historically overlookedThe myths and misconceptions surrounding the Olympic-class linersThe ship’s vital wartime service and technical innovationsHow historical narratives are shaped — and sometimes distortedThe research process behind writing a definitive maritime historyMark shares insights into archival research, the challenges of correcting the historical record, and why Olympic deserves far greater recognition among historians and enthusiasts alike.About the GuestMark Chirnside is a respected maritime historian specialising in White Star Line and Cunard liners of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work is known for its depth, accuracy, and myth-busting clarity.Find Mark's Website 'Mark Chirnside's Reception Room' (including blog) Here: https://markchirnside.co.uk/Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoy deep dives into film, history, and cultural storytelling without the faff, make sure you’re subscribed to Review It Yourself on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.New episodes explore films, historical subjects, and fascinating guests — always with sharp insight and honest analysis.Support the PodcastLove the show? Here’s how you can help:Follow and subscribe on your podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and written reviewShare the episode with fellow Titanic and maritime history enthusiastsFollow Review It Yourself on social media for updates and bonus contentYour support helps the podcast grow, attract expert guests, and continue producing in-depth conversations like this one.If you thought you knew the full story of the Olympic-class liners, this episode might just change your perspective.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.