Expert Critique of Old Wall Construction

What happens here

The 'Dirt Monkey' (Stan Jenic), an experienced contractor, provides commentary criticizing the construction of the old retaining wall. He points out several flaws: the use of cheap, hollow blocks with only a tiny lip for interlocking, which easily break (especially during freeze-thaw cycles), leading to structural failure. He also criticizes the absence of adequate drainage behind the wall, which exacerbates water trapping and instability. He emphasizes that these common shortcuts are 'cheats' that lead to premature wall failure.

Goal: Identify and explain the critical flaws in the original retaining wall's construction.