Groundbreaking Digital Frontier or 80s Tech Fantasy?
Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell with special guest Joe Malone as they venture into the neon-lit digital world of Tron (1982). This revolutionary sci-fi adventure follows computer programmer Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) as he's transported inside a computer system where he must battle alongside Tron against the tyrannical Master Control Program.

The hosts dive deep into what makes this film a landmark in cinema history—it was the first major film to use extensive computer-generated imagery, so groundbreaking that the Academy disqualified it from special effects nominations because they considered using computers "cheating." Despite its commercial underperformance, the film's arcade games became massive hits, showcasing its cultural impact.

Joe shares his fascinating journey with the film, initially creating a list titled "Why I Hate It" after his first viewing, only to create a contrasting "Why I Actually Really Like It" list after his second watch. The hosts agree that while the narrative sometimes falls flat and the graphics appear dated by today's standards, the film deserves recognition for pioneering digital filmmaking and presciently exploring AI concerns that remain relevant today.

Nathan, a childhood fan, rates it 7.5/10 "frisbees," while newfound Tron defender Joe gives it 7.6, and Krissy lands at 6.5, noting that even her cat refused to watch it with her.

Key topics discussed:

• Jeff Bridges' performance and undeniable charm
• The revolutionary computer graphics and special effects
• The film's religious undertones with users portrayed as godlike beings
• The iconic Light Cycle sequences
• Similarities to Star Wars' narrative structure
• Connections to modern concerns about artificial intelligence
• The unusual costume designs and world-building
• The surprising romantic "threpple" dynamics between characters

The episode concludes with movie recommendations including Blade Runner (1982), WarGames (1983), and Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (2004) as companions to Tron. Whether you're a devoted fan or new to this digital frontier, this episode illuminates why Tron remains a fascinating artifact of early digital filmmaking and 80s sci-fi imagination.

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A Frozen Adventure in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

In this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast, hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by special guest Francis Zagarigo to discuss the iconic sequel Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. As a certified young person who had never seen the original trilogy before, Francis brings a fresh perspective to this beloved sci-fi classic.

The hosts dive deep into what makes Empire such a standout film in the Star Wars saga. Nathan shares how this sequel takes a darker, more character-driven approach compared to the spectacle-focused original. Unlike the triumphant ending of A New Hope, Empire delivers a murkier "to be continued" conclusion that initially disappointed audiences but has since become celebrated as the franchise's pinnacle achievement.

Krissy and Francis analyze the crackling romance between Han and Leia, from their contentious banter to the iconic "I love you"/"I know" exchange. Meanwhile, Francis expresses particular delight with the ice planet Hoth and less enthusiasm for the unnecessary tauntaun deaths. The trio also discusses Yoda's introduction, marveling at how a puppet became one of cinema's most believable and profound characters.

Other topics covered:

• The Millennium Falcon's persistent mechanical problems and lovable character
• Darth Vader's dramatic dinner table reveal in Cloud City
• The controversial "I am your father" twist and its impact
• Lando Calrissian's introduction and betrayal
• The special edition changes and how they compare to the original
• Luke's questionable decision to abandon his Jedi training
• The surprisingly minimal consequences of losing a hand in the Star Wars universe

In their final ratings, both hosts give Empire a perfect 10, acknowledging its profound influence on their love of cinema, while Francis awards it a respectable 7. The episode concludes with recommendations for viewers who enjoyed Empire: Nathan suggests the Disney+ series Skeleton Crew, Krissy recommends the What We Do in the Shadows episode featuring Mark Hamill, and Francis proposes Mr. & Mrs. Smith for those who enjoy the enemies-to-lovers dynamic.

Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars fan or experiencing the trilogy for the first time, this episode offers both nostalgic appreciation and fresh insights into what makes The Empire Strikes Back an enduring sci-fi masterpiece.

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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 Filmmaker Nathan Blackwell (Voyage Trekkers, The Last Movie Ever Made) and Comedian Krissy Lenz (Neighborhood Comedy Theatre, Saturday Matinée Podcast) with special guest, multiple Emmy award-winning Leigh Ann Dolan (Busy Tonight, Phoenix Film Festival, Valley Youth Theater) as they quip their way through the world of improbable illness and ineffectual men in their conversation about Steel Magnolias. What will the Deep Cut Recommendations be? What will they rate this classic "laughter through tears" extravaganza?

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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