Chapter 1: Menahem Golan & Yoram Globus – The Mavericks of Cannon Films"

In this episode of Unsung Heroes, we uncover the bold and eccentric journey of Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus, the visionary duo behind Cannon Films, who reshaped Hollywood in the 1980s with their relentless passion for filmmaking. Known for producing a staggering number of films, from cult classics like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 to blockbuster hits like Breakin’ and The Delta Force, Golan and Globus turned low-budget movies into box office sensations. Their fearless, go-for-broke approach brought action stars like Chuck Norris and Jean-Claude Van Damme into the spotlight, even though their impact is often overshadowed by the glossier studios of the time.

 

But Golan and Globus were more than just prolific producers—they were mavericks who took risks, bucked the Hollywood system, and redefined independent filmmaking. This episode delves into their roller-coaster career, highlighting both their ambitious successes and spectacular failures, while examining how their larger-than-life personalities left an indelible mark on 80s cinema. Through interviews with industry insiders, rare behind-the-scenes footage, and a look at their most iconic films, we celebrate Golan and Globus as unsung heroes whose fearless creativity and boundless energy helped shape a generation of cult cinema.

 

"Unsung Heroes: Don Simpson – The Visionary Behind the Blockbuster"

In this episode of Unsung Heroes, we delve into the life of Don Simpson, the enigmatic producer whose relentless pursuit of the blockbuster film forever altered the landscape of Hollywood in the 1980s. Known for his work on iconic hits like Beverly Hills Cop, Top Gun, and Flashdance, Simpson had a knack for identifying trends and crafting films that resonated with audiences, often turning them into cultural phenomena. His bold vision and penchant for high-energy storytelling catapulted a new era of action and romance, yet his tumultuous personal life and controversial working methods often overshadowed his remarkable contributions to cinema.

 

Simpson’s story is a rollercoaster of ambition, creativity, and chaos, marked by both incredible success and profound struggle. This episode explores the duality of his legacy, showcasing how his innovative approach to filmmaking and marketing transformed the way movies were made and sold. Through candid interviews with collaborators, behind-the-scenes footage, and reflections from those who witnessed his impact firsthand, we celebrate Don Simpson as an unsung hero of Hollywood—a creative force whose influence is still felt today, even as his personal demons remind us of the cost of ambition in the pursuit of greatness.