Fletch

Peter and Andrew dive into Michael Ritchie’s 1985 comedy classic Fletch, exploring how it balances a razor-sharp, well-crafted mystery with Chevy Chase’s signature deadpan wit and disguise-heavy physical comedy. They examine why mystery-comedies so rarely succeed, how the film keeps its jokes organic to the investigative narrative rather than detouring into sketches, Chase’s peak-era performance, and the inexplicable plot choice to feature Provo, Utah, as an international airline hub.

In their remake segment, the hosts imagine how to retool the detective comedy. Could it work as a Disney Channel Original Movie about a high school newspaper reporter uncovering an ACT cheating ring, or an undercover teen interloper visiting out-of-town cousins for homecoming? Who could possibly step into the lead role today—Danny McBride, Mikey Day, or Joel McHale? Plus, pitches for an episodic "disguise-of-the-week" sitcom versus a gritty six-part prestige prequel exploring the breakdown of Fletch's marriage.

Kicking off the episode, Peter and Andrew tackle a corporate brand pitch for Zippo Lighters, debating Trey Parker and Matt Stone WWII stop-motion satire versus a contemplative, existential animated drama in the vein of John Cassavetes and 1970s Rankin/Bass animation.

Topics covered: The lost art of star-tailored comedy writing, voiceover done right, and why comedy deserves serious cinematic study.