Hello Friends of the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! We are taking a short break between seasons during February and March. In the meantime please enjoy these REBROADCAST episodes, some favorites of ours, to tide you over until we return on Wednesday April 9th with new episodes!

Get ready to saddle up for some wildly excellent 80s action with The Most Excellent 80s Movies podcast's tubular recap of Lethal Weapon!

Our radical hosts Krissy, Nathan, and special guest Andy Andy Nelson gnaw their way through this primo slice of buddy-cop nostalgia. It's 1987 and extreme odd couple, detectives Riggs and Murtaugh, are trading quips and bullets on the streets of LA.

The hosts serve up a bodacious summary of this classic flick starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover as the mismatched cop duo.

Majorly Important Points:

• They dish on how this flick totally created the formula for buddy cop flicks with its wacky partners. We dig it!
• Some stuff like Riggs' grief and the villains are now kinda bogus and don't hold up. Bummer!
• The action scenes are styling and they can roll with the occasional plot holes. Sweet!
• They analyze whether the wild Western-style ending fights really move the story. Hmmm.

Other Triumphant Topics:

• This movie screams the 1980s with its cliches, tropes, and references. Classic!
• The action is almost as extreme as director Michael Bay's future flicks. Ka-boom!
• Some bits about women and doctors are now super cringe. Not cool!
• Is this really a holiday classic or just set at Christmas? We're not sure, dudes.
• They rate this radical movie between 6 and 8 "buns" out of 10.

In conclusion, this most excellent 80s flick is a pioneer of buddy cop films despite some heinous elements that don't age well.

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Hello Friends of the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! We are taking a short break between seasons during February and March. In the meantime please enjoy these REBROADCAST episodes, some favorites of ours, to tide you over until we return on Wednesday April 9th with new episodes!

Join hosts Krissy Lenz, Nathan Blackwell and special guest Nate McWhortor (Gank that Drank: A Supernatural Drinking Game Podcast) as they journey down the rabbit hole of 1988's groundbreaking live-action/animated smash hit Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In this fun and insightful episode, we look at:

• The stunning visual effects that seamlessly blended live action and animation like never before, paving the way for modern CGI
• How Robert Zemeckis brought together Disney and Warner Bros. characters on screen for the first time, an almost unthinkable crossover at the time
• Jessica Rabbit as a male fantasy icon but also a surprisingly nuanced female character who defies expectations
• The core theme of laughter as a unifying force contrasted with the humorless villains
• The not-so-subtle satire of Los Angeles development and transportation
• How well the film holds up today as an introduction to noir for kids and families

Krissy, Nate, and Nathan also share their personal memories of seeing Who Framed Roger Rabbit for the first time, get into the deeper themes, and analyze what still works and what doesn't all these years later. It's a spirited back-and-forth between two movie lovers taking a fond look back at a comedy classic.

Other topics discussed:

• The rapid-fire opening cartoon sequence introducing Roger Rabbit
• The groundbreaking interaction of cartoons and humans at the Ink & Paint Club
• The horrifying introduction of Christopher Lloyd's Judge Doom and his deadly "Dip"
• The scene-stealing performance of Bob Hoskins as Eddie Valiant
• The chase scenes and vintage Los Angeles settings
• The mystery plot and film noir tropes
• How the plot wraps up rather quickly in the end
• Comparing Who Framed Roger Rabbit to Cool World and Space Jam

So put on your best Eddie Valiant fedora and give a listen to Krissy, Nate and Nathan pay tribute to this outrageous live action/animated mashup that brought new levels of visual wizardry to the big screen. It's a spirited and enlightening dive into a comedy classic that still delights today.

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We couldn't do this without your support of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Thank you!
Join now for: $5/Month • $55/year • Learn More

Hello Friends of the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! We are taking a short break between seasons during February and March. In the meantime please enjoy these REBROADCAST episodes, some favorites of ours, to tide you over until we return on Wednesday April 9th with new episodes!

In this uproarious episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast, hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell team up with special guest Jared Washburn to revisit the 1989 cult classic "UHF," starring the incomparable Weird Al Yankovic. Prepare for a nostalgic journey filled with laughter as they delve into this delightfully bizarre comedy that has become a cherished gem, particularly among those who grew up in the 80s and 90s.

Throughout the episode, the trio shares their personal connections and admiration for "UHF," highlighting its status as a cult favorite. They praise Weird Al’s commitment to his uproarious parodies and characters, particularly his unforgettable portrayals of Indiana Jones and Rambo, which are considered major highlights of the film. The discussion also covers the unique, episodic structure of "UHF," which features an array of commercial parodies and vignettes that contribute to its charm, despite straying from a traditional narrative.

Michael Richards' portrayal of Stanley Spadowski, the janitor turned children’s show host, is acknowledged as particularly memorable, with his natural charm and goofiness bringing a special light to the film. The episode doesn’t shy away from exploring other significant aspects, including the influence of Weird Al’s music on the film’s tone, the challenges of objectively rating a nostalgic favorite, and recommendations for similar comedies like "Wayne's World" and "Empire Records."

The hosts also discuss the film's timeless appeal compared to other parody films of its era, the impact of "UHF" on Weird Al’s career, and its surprising initial box office failure. Whether you’re revisiting "UHF" or discovering it for the first time, this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast promises a celebration of the unique humor and enduring legacy of Weird Al Yankovic and the creative minds behind "UHF." Join Krissy, Nathan, and Jared for an episode that’s sure to evoke both laughter and a deep appreciation for this iconic film.

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Welcome back to The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast with your hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell! This episode dives deep into the heartfelt and iconic Rain Man (1988). From its award-winning performances by Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise to its unique road trip narrative, we revisit this Best Picture Oscar winner to see how it holds up through modern eyes. Prepare for thoughtful discussions, behind-the-scenes stories, and a whole lot of 80s nostalgia!

PLUS! This is the last episode of this season... surprise! Ha ha. We are about to take a short break like we did last year in February and March, but this year we will have some exciting REBROADCAST episodes for you while you wait for fresh new Most Excellent 80s episodes to come at you on April 2nd!

Key Takeaways:

• Unlikely Brotherly Bond: At its core, Rain Man is a moving story about connection, empathy, and personal growth. Tom Cruise’s Charlie starts as a self-absorbed car dealer but evolves into a compassionate brother through his relationship with Raymond, an autistic savant played brilliantly by Dustin Hoffman. Their cross-country journey is filled with moments of tension, hilarity, and tenderness.
• Groundbreaking Representation: We explore the portrayal of autism in Rain Man—its impact on audiences and the conversations it sparked about neurodiversity. While Hoffman’s depiction of Raymond remains a cultural touchpoint, we also critique its limitations and the trope of the "magical savant."
• Road Trips, Rainstorms, and Redemption: The road trip format mirrors the internal transformation of its characters. Each pit stop—from counting cards in Las Vegas to intimate revelations about their shared past—brings the brothers closer together and pushes Charlie toward redemption.
• Cultural and Industry Context: Krissy and Nathan reminisce about the 80s as an era when heartfelt dramas like Rain Man dominated the box office—a stark contrast to today’s blockbuster-driven landscape. They also dive into fun facts, like how Steven Spielberg was originally slated to direct and the impact of the film’s soundtrack.

Other Topics Covered:

• Why Tom Cruise’s punchable 80s charm was perfect for this role.
• Valeria Golino’s standout performance as Charlie’s compassionate girlfriend.
• The nostalgic quirks of 80s filmmaking, from trailers to iconic soundtracks.
• A candid discussion on the ethics of actors portraying characters with disabilities.
• Memorable scenes, like the "toothpick count" and the tender dancing lesson.
• How Rain Man influenced future films and pop culture references (even The Hangover!).

Deep Cut Recommendations:

Krissy suggests The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt for its Rain Man homage and quirky humor. Nathan recommends E.T. for its focus on empathy and unlikely friendships.

Thank you for joining us on this heartfelt ride through Rain Man! Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the analysis, or just to party on with us, we’re glad you’re along for the journey. Don’t forget to like, rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Keep the most excellent 80s movies motto in mind: Be excellent to each other and party on, dudes!

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We couldn't do this without your support of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Thank you!
Join now for: $5/Month • $55/year • Learn More

Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell as they dive deep into one of the most bewildering teen films of the 1980s - Dream a Little Dream (1989). This surreal body-swap comedy starring the two Coreys (Feldman and Haim) alongside veteran actors Jason Robards and Piper Laurie proves to be a fascinating mess of metaphysical poetry, teen romance, and inexplicable violence.

Following a recommendation from previous guest Corey Feldman himself, our hosts unpack this peculiar film where an elderly couple's meditation experiment goes wrong, causing Jason Robards' consciousness to become trapped in Corey Feldman's teenage body. What follows is a two-hour journey filled with Michael Jackson dance numbers, cryptic dream sequences, and a surprisingly dark subplot involving an unhinged boyfriend with a gun.

The hosts discuss how the film's attempt to blend spiritual themes with teen comedy creates a confusing narrative that never quite comes together. They note how Corey Haim's character wasn't even in the original script, yet his improvised scenes end up being some of the most entertaining moments in the film. The podcast also explores the movie's bizarre editing choices, unnecessarily long runtime, and its struggle to maintain coherent character motivations.

Key topics covered:

• The unusual chemistry between Jason Robards and Corey Feldman
• Corey Haim's last-minute addition to the cast and his real-life broken leg
• The film's confusing dream logic and metaphysical elements
• Questionable subplot involving drugged teenagers and gun violence
• Extended Michael Jackson-inspired dance sequences
• The movie's marketing focus on "The Two Coreys" despite Haim's minimal role
• Discussion of the 1995 sequel Dream a Little Dream 2
• Comparison to other body-swap films like Freaky (2020)

In their final assessment, Krissy and Nathan rate the film three and four "broken legs" out of ten respectively, acknowledging its flaws while maintaining respect for the ambitious if misguided attempt to create something unique in the teen movie genre. While Dream a Little Dream may not be "so bad it's good," it certainly provides plenty of material for discussion and bewilderment.

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Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell with special guest Alice Baker as they roundhouse kick their way through Barry Gordy's 1985 martial arts musical mashup The Last Dragon. This cult classic blends kung fu action, Motown music, and 80s pop culture into a unique cinematic experience that defies traditional genre boundaries.

The hosts dive deep into the film's peculiar plot, following Leroy Green's quest to achieve "the glow" while navigating between two outrageous villains: the flamboyant Sho'nuff (played brilliantly by Julius Carry) and the unhinged video game mogul Eddie Arcadian. The discussion highlights how the movie, despite being a critical failure, became a beloved cultural touchstone, particularly in the Black community, spawning memorable catchphrases and iconic scenes.

The episode reveals fascinating behind-the-scenes details, including how the film nearly missed securing Bruce Lee footage rights and lost 40 pages of script in a fortunate accident that actually helped streamline the final cut. The hosts also explore the impressive Motown soundtrack, featuring collaborations with legendary musicians, though they agree some of the songs haven't aged as gracefully as others.

Key Topics Covered:

• Early career appearances by William H. Macy and Chazz Palminteri
• The impressive roster of actors who almost played Leroy, including Denzel Washington and Lawrence Fishburne
• Vanity's decision to choose this film over Purple Rain
• The cultural mixing of various martial arts styles and traditions
• The film's innovative blend of music video aesthetics with martial arts action
• Notable fight choreography by Robert van Cleef
• Young Ernie Reyes Jr.'s scene-stealing performance
• The movie's influence on future films, including possible Matrix connections
• Varying audience reactions and the film's revival screening appeal

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering this unique piece of 80s cinema for the first time, this episode offers an entertaining deep dive into a film that perfectly encapsulates the decade's excess, style, and charm. The hosts rate it between 6-7 out of 10, agreeing that while the plot may meander, the entertainment value, particularly when watched with friends, makes it a worthwhile viewing experience.

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80s icon Corey Feldman joins The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast to discuss his new film Going Viral (2024), a nostalgic throwback that imagines what social media might have looked like in the 1980s. Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell sit down with the star of classics like The Goonies and Stand By Me for an engaging conversation about this unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern technology.

Feldman describes Going Viral as a family-friendly adventure that captures the essence of 80s filmmaking while exploring an alternate reality where viral video fame existed alongside Nintendo Game Boys and arcade machines. The film follows a teen's quest for video stardom that takes a dark turn when a mysterious AI offers fame at a concerning price. With authentic period details like Pac-Man cabinets and Goonies posters decorating the background, the movie creates what Feldman calls a "parallel universe" version of 80s technology.

The conversation takes an introspective turn as Feldman discusses his approach to acting roles throughout his career, explaining how he's always strived to avoid typecasting by making each character distinct. He also shares candid insights about his journey through Hollywood, including his experiences with low-budget films in the early 90s and his pride in more serious artistic endeavors like The Birthday, which recently received its long-awaited US release.

Key Topics Covered:

• Details about Going Viral and its unique premise combining 80s aesthetics with modern social media concepts
• Feldman's role as a burnt-out competitive arcade gamer
• The careful attention to period detail in the film's production design
• Feldman's thoughts on what makes a good "background movie" for family viewing
• Discussion of Dream a Little Dream as a pivotal film in Feldman's career
• His experience contributing music to film soundtracks
• Reflections on working with legendary actors like Jason Robards and Harry Dean Stanton

The episode concludes with Feldman recommending Dream a Little Dream as the next film for the podcast to review, praising it as the "quintessential end of the 80s movie" that marked a more mature direction for himself and costar Corey Haim.

Catch Going Viral on Amazon and Apple for a fresh take on 80s nostalgia with a modern twist.

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National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: A Hilarious Holiday Classic Dissected
Join the hosts of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast as they unwrap the comedic genius of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, the 1989 holiday comedy that has become a beloved family tradition for millions. Featuring special guests Adam and Megan Hughes Rini, this episode offers a deep dive into one of the most iconic Christmas movies of all time.

The Griswold Family Christmas: Chaos, Comedy, and Nostalgia
Chevy Chase stars as Clark Griswold, the well-intentioned but disaster-prone father determined to create the perfect family Christmas. The podcast breaks down the film's most memorable moments, from the epic Christmas tree hunt to the legendary light display that threatens to burn down the neighborhood. Hosts highlight how the movie captures the quintessential 80s family comedy, complete with John Hughes' signature touch of suburban humor and heart.

The episode explores the film's enduring appeal, discussing how the characters - from Beverly D'Angelo's patient Ellen to Randy Quaid's unforgettable Cousin Eddie - have become cultural touchstones. The guests share personal memories of watching the movie, revealing why it has become a holiday tradition for so many families.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The evolution of the National Lampoon's Vacation franchise
• Memorable scene breakdowns, including the infamous sledding sequence
• Behind-the-scenes trivia about the cast and production
• The film's representation of 1980s suburban family dynamics
• Why the movie continues to resonate with audiences decades later

Other Fascinating Moments Covered:

• The bizarre turkey dinner scene
• Clark's workplace bonus drama
• The hilarious interactions with yuppie neighbors Todd and Margo
• The legendary squirrel scene
• Comparing Christmas Vacation to other holiday comedies

The podcast wraps up with the hosts rating the movie - a near-perfect 9 out of 10 squirrels - and offering their personal deep-cut movie recommendations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a first-time viewer, this episode offers a nostalgic and laugh-filled exploration of a true holiday comedy classic.

Don't miss this ultimate Christmas Vacation deep dive - it's the gift that keeps on giving!

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We couldn't do this without your support of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Thank you!
Join now for: $5/Month • $55/year • Learn More