Six Hot Erotic Dancers from 1985
Cast & Crew
- Actors: Jim Kellogg, Reno Black, Donny Chambers, Dave Matthews, Prince Daniel, Michael Mednick
- Producers: Mark Schulze, Patricia Mooney and Dixie Crane
- Studio: New & Unique Videos
- VHS Release Date: 1985
- Run Time: 60 minutes
- IMDb
Where You Can See It
The Unassuming Cult Classic
Welcome to the site of the original California Big Hunks! This is the video that – unbeknownst to its creators – became a cult classic.
Way back in 1985, Mark Schulze and Patty Mooney videotaped six erotic male dancers, each dancing his own fantasy scenario. Jim the Cop, Reno in the Jungle, Dave the Cowboy, Donny in the Ruins, Michael in the Gym and Danny in the Haunted Disco. This video became very popular for Bachelorette Parties, and then it made a splash in Gay publications and for many years it sold successfully around the world on VHS tape.
When DVDs came along, followed by digital links, Mark and Patty were busy producing and shooting for corporate clients via their San Diego video production company, Crystal Pyramid Productions, and set “California Big Hunks” on a shelf. Jay Leno occasionally bought clips of the Big Hunks for his Tonight Show; his editors would Photoshop Jay’s head on one of the guys and create golden comedy skits.
The Missing Dancer: Donny Chambers
One of the dancers, Donny Chambers, was originally set to appear in the promotional photo shoot for California Big Hunks, but due to an unforeseen scheduling conflict, he was unable to attend. As a result, he does not appear on the box covers of the iconic 1985 video.
In a recent conversation, Donny expressed his regret over missing that opportunity, reflecting on how much he enjoyed being part of the production and wishing he had been included in the promotional materials that have since become a part of pop culture history. Despite his absence from the cover, his dynamic performance remains an unforgettable part of the film, cementing his place in the legacy of California Big Hunks.
Whose Line is It Anyway?
One of the most surreal and exhilarating moments in the history of California Big Hunks came when Whose Line Is It Anyway?—the beloved improv comedy show—featured footage of Jim the Cop, one of the dancers from the video, on an episode. As the clip played, showing Jim’s confident yet unintentionally comedic routine, the studio erupted with laughter. Sitting in the audience that night were none other than Patty Mooney and Mark Schulze, the creators of California Big Hunks, who watched in delight as the crowd howled at the absurdity of the moment. Seeing their work unexpectedly resurface in such a joyful and hilarious setting reinforced how California Big Hunks continues to entertain and amuse audiences decades later.
A Garage Sale Discovery: Found Footage Festival Unearths California Big Hunks
Decades after its original release, California Big Hunks found a new audience thanks to an unexpected discovery. The curators of the Found Footage Festival, a touring showcase dedicated to unearthing and celebrating odd and obscure VHS tapes, stumbled upon a copy of California Big Hunks at a garage sale. Intrigued by its vintage aesthetic and over-the-top dance performances, they recognized it as a hidden gem of 1980s home entertainment. The festival’s hosts, known for their keen eye for eccentric and nostalgic video treasures, introduced California Big Hunks to a new generation of fans, elevating its cult status and cementing its place in the world of beloved VHS-era discoveries.
Red Letter Media Crowns California Big Hunks as “Best of the Worst” #3
In a hilarious twist of fate, California Big Hunks gained even greater cult status when Red Letter Media, the popular film review group known for their deep dives into obscure and bizarre movies, featured it on their Black Spine Edition of Best of the Worst #3. Competing against a lineup of other forgotten VHS oddities, California Big Hunks stood out for its unintentionally comedic charm, vintage 1980s aesthetic, and enthusiastic dance performances. The panel of reviewers couldn’t resist its earnest yet over-the-top production, ultimately declaring it the Best of the Worst for that episode. Their glowing (and tongue-in-cheek) praise introduced the film to a whole new audience, solidifying its place as a legendary entry in the world of rediscovered VHS treasures.
Sound Metaphors Releases California Big Hunks Soundtrack on 12″ Vinyl
Adding to the unexpected resurgence of California Big Hunks, the Berlin-based record label Sound Metaphors recognized the nostalgic charm of the video’s original synth-heavy, dance-driven soundtrack by composer Richard Jan Plasko. Embracing the retro aesthetic, they released a 12-inch pink vinyl record featuring the music from California Big Hunks, giving the soundtrack new life in the underground music scene. The two featured tracks are “Dave the Dirty Cowboy” and “Prince Daniel in the Haunted Disco.” This special edition not only preserves the essence of 1980s electronic grooves but also introduces the once-forgotten score to vinyl collectors and DJs, proving that California Big Hunks continues to inspire in the most unexpected ways.
Musically, the soundtrack reminds critics “a little of a mid-80s update of the gay porn soundtracks produced by Patrick Cowley – all throbbing, arpeggio-style sequenced basslines, lo-fi synth sounds, electronic colour and punchy drum machine beats. Basically, it’s energetic high-NRG sleaze, featuring X-rated female vocal snippets, bubbling lead lines, undulating electronic bass and skittish proto-house beats.”
Mystery of the Dirty Dancing Cowboy
Then came “The Mystery of the Dirty Cowboy,” a short, intimate documentary about the search for a lost piece of music—one that lingered in the filmmaker’s mind long after the original source faded from reach. What begins as a casual curiosity slowly turns into a years-long quest, culminating in an unexpected yet fulfilling resolution. The film explores themes of memory, persistence, and the strangely personal nature of sound and nostalgia. At its heart, it’s a quiet meditation on the value of finishing what you start—no matter how long it takes.
Featuring the generous contributions of Patty Mooney and Mark Schulze, who provided archival material and heartfelt support, this short film is not just about tracking down a song—it’s about honoring the journey, the people involved, and the serendipity that leads us home.
The Making of California Big Hunks
To mark the 40th anniversary of California Big Hunks, Mark Schulze and Patty Mooney produced The Making of California Big Hunks, a visually captivating companion piece featuring never-before-seen dancing scenes from the original 1985 production. Patty Mooney, who edited the film, also played a key role in documenting the behind-the-scenes fun with a VHS camera, capturing the candid moments and energy of the performers offstage. As the “mysterious voice” introducing each dancer in the original—delivering the iconic lines like, “And now, Dave…”—Mooney’s presence is woven throughout the experience. With a fresh soundtrack by Candace Love, this new release offers a deeper, more immersive look into the raw talent, charisma, and electrifying showmanship that made California Big Hunks a cult favorite.
The Enduring Legacy of California Big Hunks
What began as a fun and daring video project in 1985 has grown into a cult classic, standing the test of time with its energetic performances, charismatic dancers, and unforgettable moments. California Big Hunks continues to entertain audiences decades later, gaining recognition on late-night television, comedy shows, and online platforms, where its unique blend of dance, theatrics, and vintage charm keeps it in the public eye.
With the release of The Making of California Big Hunks, featuring never-before-seen footage and a new Candace Love soundtrack, the film’s legacy is further cemented. Though Donny Chambers may have missed his chance to be on the cover, his performance—like those of his fellow dancers—remains a cherished part of the video’s history. Thanks to the dedication of Mark Schulze and Patty Mooney, who not only produced and filmed the project but also documented the behind-the-scenes magic, California Big Hunks lives on as a joyful, nostalgic, and iconic piece of entertainment history.