Episodios

  • Uncle Buck (1989)

    Uncle Buck (1989)
    Jan 14 2026
    He's Crude, He's Crass, He's Family: An Uncle Buck Deep DiveWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell, along with special guest Heath Wilcock, as they make themselves at home with John Hughes' 1989 comedy Uncle Buck. In this lovable exploration of family dynamics, the trio discusses how John Candy's portrayal of the slovenly bachelor turned temporary guardian perfectly captures the heart of what makes this film a timeless classic—even when he's threatening to show up to school in his bathrobe.The hosts dive deep into what makes Buck Russell such a magical character, from his giant pancakes the size of trash can lids to his absurdist approach to parenting ("I have a friend in the crime tech lab"). They explore how the film balances John Hughes' signature blend of sincere character moments with cartoonish comedy, discussing everything from the iconic rapid-fire questioning scene with young Macaulay Culkin to Tia's remarkable character arc. Heath shares his lifelong love for the film, while Nathan reflects on rewatching it after 20 years, and Krissy relates to it with fresh eyes as a parent of a teenager. The conversation touches on how Uncle Buck directly inspired Hughes to write Home Alone, the film's surprisingly dark moments (kidnapping Bug, anyone?), and why John Candy remains irreplaceable in the role—despite studio interest in Tom Cruise.Additional Thoughts:
    • The clap-on moment that lights up Buck's entire building exemplifies the film's magical realism
    • Jean Louisa Kelly's performance as Tia walks the perfect line between venomous and vulnerable
    • The film's blissfully short runtime keeps everything moving without feeling episodic
    • Marcy Dahlgren-Frost remains one of cinema's strangest neighbor characters
    • Buck's laundry-in-the-microwave running gag never gets old
    Final Verdict: Heath gives it a perfect 10 giant pancakes with butter, praising the tight storytelling and character work. Nathan awards 7 pancakes, noting some episodic pacing in the middle but celebrating Hughes' cleverness and Candy's charm. Krissy serves up 9 pancakes, highlighting how well the film holds up for family viewing.Deep Cut Recommendations: Heath suggests The Haunted Hotel on Netflix for another lovable problematic uncle. Nathan offers Elf for seasonal viewing, plus Yojimbo for those seeking a samurai take on the catalyst character. Krissy rounds it out with A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole for comedy with a larger-than-life protagonist.Want to hear this episode early and ad-free? Become a member at trustory.fm/join for bonus content and early access to every episode!Connect with the show:
    • Facebook
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    • Bluesky
    Learn more about the hosts:
    • Krissy at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre
    • Nathan at Squishy Studios
    • Discover more at trustory.fm
    What's your favorite John Hughes film and why does Uncle Buck's car backfire haunt your dreams?
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    59 m
  • Akira (1988)

    Akira (1988)
    Dec 31 2025
    A Sensory Overload of Cyberpunk: Akira Takes Over Neo TokyoWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast, where hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by special guest David Westlake to dive headfirst into Katsuhiro Otomo's groundbreaking 1988 anime masterpiece Akira. Buckle up—this one goes hard from frame one.Neo Tokyo Never Stood a ChanceThe crew tackles one of cinema's most ambitious and visually stunning films—a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk epic that defies easy explanation. Set 30 years after a catastrophic explosion that reshaped Tokyo, Akira follows biker gang leader Kaneda and his friend Tetsuo as they stumble into a military conspiracy involving psychic children, a mysterious godlike force, and power that no human was ever meant to wield.Krissy admits she was completely lost for most of the viewing experience, frantically taking notes and cross-referencing Wikipedia. Yet this confusion becomes part of the film's brilliance—Akira deliberately withholds exposition, letting mystery and ambiguity drive the narrative forward. The hosts wrestle with whether they enjoyed the experience, ultimately concluding that enjoyment isn't quite the right word. Instead, they felt changed by it.Nathan emphasizes that the film's true genius lies in its exploration of unchecked power and human inadequacy. Through Tetsuo's tragic arc—reminiscent of Anakin Skywalker's descent—the film asks a haunting question: what happens when a being with the emotional maturity of an angry teenager suddenly gains godlike abilities? The answer is absolute chaos. The violence is visceral, the destruction is relentless, and the moral landscape is deliberately murky. This isn't a film designed to comfort you; it's designed to challenge and provoke.David, experiencing Akira for the first time, identifies it as a foundational text for anime—a starting point that established countless tropes still used today. He notes how the film's aesthetic choices, from the distinctive art style to the passionate name-calling during intense moments, have become codified anime conventions. The hosts agree that while the character of Kaneda isn't particularly likable (he treats nearly everyone poorly), his cool motorcycle and sense of responsibility create an engaging protagonist despite his flaws.What Makes Akira Essential CinemaVisual Innovation: The animation is a technical revolutionPhilosophical Depth: Genuine philosophical inquiry about human nature, power, and moreMoral Ambiguity: Nearly every character exists in shades of grayGateway to Serious Storytelling: The perfect film for those ready for more challenging, adult narrativesA Masterclass in Trailer Difficulty: How do you sell this movie? The VerdictDavid appreciates the mystery, ambiguity, and groundbreaking artistry while wishing for a more likable lead character beyond his iconic bike and sense of duty. Nathan recognizes this as stunning cinema on an action, writing, and thematic level. While he won't rewatch it as frequently as lighter fare, he calls it the perfect gateway for curious teenagers seeking philosophical, intense storytelling. And Krissy feels genuinely changed by the experience, acknowledging that Akira is now part of her, informing her perspective going forward. This is a film, not just a movie—and one she'd enthusiastically recommend, though she'd warn viewers to put their phones away.Stay Excellent, Downtown MesaWant to catch David and Krissy performing? Visit Neighborhood Comedy Theatre in downtown Mesa. Check out Nathan's filmmaking work, including the feature film The Last Movie Ever Made, at his website. Krissy also co-hosts Gank That Drank, a supernatural drinking game podcast on TruStory FM.Join the CommunityLike what you heard? Become a member to get episodes a week early, ad-free access, and exclusive bonus content—like this episode's discussion of favorite animated films and shows beyond Akira. Rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen. Tell your friends, your neighbors, and yes—even your local biker gang. Every five-star review helps immensely.Connect with us:Facebook | Instagram | BlueskyFor 80s movie lovers: Have you experienced Akira, and if so—did it blow your mind or confuse you senseless? Drop a comment and let us know what you thought of this cyberpunk classic. ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.
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    57 m
  • My Stepmother Is an Alien (1988)

    My Stepmother Is an Alien (1988)
    Dec 17 2025
    A Cosmic Comedy of Questionable ChoicesWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by special guest Robert Fata to dive into the 1988 sci-fi rom-com My Stepmother is an Alien, starring Kim Basinger, Dan Aykroyd, and a scene-stealing debut from Alyson Hannigan. When scientist Steve Mills accidentally sends a signal to another galaxy, he inadvertently attracts the attention of gorgeous extraterrestrial Celeste, who arrives on Earth with a mission—and a magical purse named Bag. What follows is a whirlwind of awkward romance, questionable parenting, and enough '80s excess to power a small planet.The trio explores how this film—written by approximately everyone in Hollywood—manages to be simultaneously charming and deeply uncomfortable. Robert, who loved the movie as a child, confronts it with adult eyes and discovers layers of subtext he definitely wasn't picking up on at age seven. Kim Basinger's committed performance shines as she navigates everything from eating cigarette butts at parties to learning about intimacy through instructional videos provided by her alien AI companion. Meanwhile, Dan Aykroyd plays a widowed scientist who somehow seems less concerned about his daughter's emotional wellbeing than about getting remarried within 48 hours of meeting someone.The conversation delves into the film's bizarre pacing, where a three-day romance feels like both a lifetime and five minutes simultaneously. They discuss Alyson Hannigan's powerhouse crying scenes, John Lovitz's relentless commitment to being turned up to 300%, and the film's curious decision to spend entire minutes on sequences that could have been trimmed while rushing through major plot points.The hosts also grapple with how this movie might be viewed through a modern lens—particularly its treatment of relationships, consent, and the uncomfortably enthusiastic daughter who tracks her father's romantic activity like a sports statistician.Additional Highlights:
    • The scientific accuracy (or lack thereof) of brass buttons creating intergalactic signals
    • Kim Basinger's inexplicable obsession with Jimmy Durante as the pinnacle of human achievement
    • Why pre-pubescent Seth Green was already fully formed Seth Green
    • The film's journey from a pitch about "a dark allegory for child abuse" to... whatever this became
    • Robert's ratings: 10/10 as a child, 6.5/10 as an adult; Nathan's more critical 4.5/10; Krissy agrees with the 6.5
    Ultimately, the hosts land on My Stepmother is an Alien being an enjoyable, if deeply flawed, time capsule of '80s comedy excess. It's a film that asks the important questions like "What if rom-coms were made exclusively by and for men?" and "How many writers does it take to make a box office bomb?" The answer to both: probably too many.Deep Cut Recommendations: The hosts share their picks for films that echo themes from My Stepmother is an Alien—from the disturbing art film Under the Skin to the Mike Myers comedy So I Married an Axe Murderer, plus the late '80s TV gem Out of This World.Want more? Become a member at trustory.fm/join for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus content!Connect with the show on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky. Learn more about the hosts at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre and Squishy Studios.Looking for your next '80s rewatch? What forgotten sci-fi comedies from the decade deserve a second look?
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    56 m
  • Gymkata (1985)

    Gymkata (1985)
    Dec 3 2025
    Gymnastics Meets Carnage: Gymkata (1985)Welcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell pommel horse their way through one of the most wonderfully absurd action films of the 1980s—Gymkata (1985). Starring real-life Olympic gymnast Kurt Thomas in his feature film debut (and finale), this Cold War curiosity follows a gymnast-martial artist sent on a CIA mission to win "the game" in the fictional country of Parmistan. The prize? The perfect location for a Star Wars satellite defense system. The obstacles? Rope courses, arrow-wielding guards, and an entire village populated by actual asylum patients armed with pitchforks.The hosts dive into the film's bizarre logic, from the conveniently placed pommel horse in a village alley to the princess who somehow knows martial arts despite never mentioning it. They discuss the film's missed opportunities—why didn't they establish the international competitors better? Why does no one ever say "Gymkata" in the actual movie? And most importantly, why does Jonathan's dad get shot with arrows twice? Both Krissy and Nathan agree that while Gymkata delivers entertaining absurdity, it doesn't quite reach the legendary heights of so-bad-it's-great classics like Miami Connection or Ninja III: The Domination. Still, it's a fun ride through 1980s action cheese.Additional Highlights:
    • The film was directed by Robert Clouse, who also directed Enter the Dragon—a sobering career trajectory
    • Kurt Thomas performs genuinely impressive gymnastics throughout, even if the premise is ridiculous
    • The "game" has confusing rules that even the characters don't seem to understand
    • The movie ends with a freeze frame and text explaining the satellite placement rather than showing
    • Rating: 6.5 pitchforks out of 10—worth a watch with the right expectations
    Final ThoughtsBoth hosts land on a 6.5 rating, agreeing that Gymkata offers solid entertainment without hitting truly bananas territory. It's a honeydew melon of bad movies—pleasant enough but not the fruit you'd choose first. Nathan recommends exploring Neil Breen's filmography, particularly Fateful Findings, for those seeking more ego-driven cinema. Krissy suggests experiencing Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights for a real-life village-of-crazies adventure.Learn More:
    Discover more about The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast and the TruStory FM network at trustory.fm. Want early, ad-free episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Become a member at trustory.fm/join.Connect With Us on Facebook, Instagram, or BlueskyAbout the Hosts:Krissy Lenz directs at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre in downtown Mesa, Arizona. Nathan Blackwell creates films with Squishy Studios.What's your favorite so-bad-it's-good 80s action movie?
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    55 m
  • The Running Man (1987) • REBROADCAST

    The Running Man (1987) • REBROADCAST
    Nov 19 2025
    We're bringing this episode back as Hollywood unveils its reimagining of The Running Man in theatres! While audiences experience this fresh take on Stephen King's dystopian thriller, we thought it was the perfect time to revisit our deep dive into the 1987 Schwarzenegger classic that first brought this dark vision of reality TV to the screen. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the original after seeing the new version, join us for this exploration of spandex, explosions, and some of Arnold's most memorable one-liners.Arnold Schwarzenegger Meets Dystopian Game ShowsWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell as they tackle The Running Man (1987), Arnold Schwarzenegger's campy dystopian thriller where convicted criminals fight for their lives on America's most popular game show. Set in a totalitarian 2017 where the economy has collapsed and reality TV has become bloodsport, this movie delivers exactly what you'd expect: explosions, terrible one-liners, and an absurd amount of spandex-clad dancers.From Sub-Zero to Plain-ZeroKrissy and Nathan dive deep into the film's bizarre logic, questioning everything from head-exploding collars to the geography of the deadly game arena. They discuss how The Running Man predicted our current era of fake news and manipulated media—making it surprisingly more relevant today than when it was released. The hosts analyze Arnold's performance as Ben Richards, a wrongfully accused helicopter pilot who refuses to massacre civilians and ends up forced into the deadliest game show ever created. They debate whether his character is supposed to be likable (spoiler: he's kind of an a-hole to everyone) and celebrate Richard Dawson's MVP performance as the mustache-twirling villain Damon Killian.The conversation explores the film's kinship with other dystopian classics like RoboCop and Demolition Man, highlighting how it fits into that late-'80s trend of criticizing Reaganomics through sci-fi satire. Nathan and Krissy particularly enjoy dissecting the various "stalkers"—from chainsaw-wielding Buzzsaw to the singing, electrocuting Dynamo—and debate which of Arnold's infamous one-liners actually lands. They also can't help but wonder about the logistics: How do contestants actually win without killing stalkers? Why are the Running Man dancers given so much screen time? And how did the resistance set up headquarters inside the game arena?Additional Thoughts:The movie earns bonus points for "The Justice Department, Entertainment Division" and parody shows like "The Hate Boat" and "Climbing for Dollars"Jesse Ventura's Captain Freedom has the second-biggest character arc in the film (which isn't saying much)The crowd's ability to flip loyalties on a dime strains credibility, even for a ridiculous action movieNathan gives it a 7 out of 10 (but warns first-time viewers will probably rate it lower)The film failed the "Rocket Test"—Krissy's son bailed halfway through his first viewingFinal VerdictBoth hosts agree that The Running Man isn't objectively great, but it's undeniably fun—the kind of movie that gets better with repeat viewings as you embrace the camp. Nathan describes it as a "picante lime potato chip" that you have to get addicted to first. For deep cut recommendations, Nathan suggests Death Race 2000 (1975) as the perfect double feature, while Krissy recommends marathon-watching all four Expendables movies for similar over-the-top action glory.Want more Most Excellent 80s Movies content?Visit TruStory FM to explore The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast and other great shows. Members get early, ad-free episodes plus exclusive bonus content—learn more at trustory.fm/join.Connect with the hosts: Check out Krissy at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre and Nathan at Squishy Studios. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.What's your favorite Arnold Schwarzenegger one-liner from The Running Man—or do you think you could write a better pun than "Sub-Zero, more like Plain-Zero"? ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.
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    50 m
  • The Monster Squad (1987)

    The Monster Squad (1987)
    Nov 5 2025
    Can a Gang of Kids Really Save the World from Classic Monsters?Welcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast, where hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell venture into completely new territory with The Monster Squad (1987)—a film neither had seen before. This nostalgic cult classic brings together Universal's greatest monsters in what should be the ultimate horror crossover, but does it hold up without those rose-tinted glasses of childhood? Join these first-time viewers as they dissect whether the magic works when you're encountering Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman for the first time as adults.Coming at The Monster Squad cold, both hosts find themselves intrigued by the premise but puzzled by the execution. While the movie looks great and delivers some genuinely fun moments—like Dracula's lightning-rod cane and the mummy's slow-motion chase scenes—they struggle to connect with characters who feel more like archetypes than actual kids. The film's reliance on nostalgia for both 1980s adventure films and classic Universal monsters creates a double-edged sword: those with childhood memories may overlook its flaws, but newcomers are left wondering why the scary German neighbor is so accommodating and where all that dynamite came from. Still, they appreciate the earnest effort and Shane Black's co-writing credits, ultimately landing on a solid 6 out of 10 rating.Additional insights from the discussion:
    • The problematic language choices feel particularly jarring to modern ears, even accounting for 1980s context
    • Fat Kid's pizza-as-weapon moment raises questions about just how sensitive vampires are to garlic
    • The film's treatment of individual monsters feels uneven, with Wolfman getting a complete arc while the Mummy serves mainly as comic relief
    • Frankenstein's redemption and the portal mechanics create unexpectedly emotional moments
    • The army showing up because of a letter written in crayon perfectly captures the film's tone
    Both hosts acknowledge that The Monster Squad clearly resonates with those who grew up watching it, even if it didn't quite capture their adult hearts. The movie delivers on spectacle and has undeniable charm, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone curious about this slice of 1980s monster movie nostalgia.Want more retro movie magic? Visit TruStory FM to explore The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast and other great shows. Members get early, ad-free episodes plus exclusive bonus content—learn more at trustory.fm/join.Connect with the hosts: Check out Krissy at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre and Nathan at Squishy Studios. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky.What's your favorite 1980s monster movie that deserves a fresh look?
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    54 m
  • Revenge of the Ninja (1983) & Ninja III: The Domination (1984) with the Long Rewind

    Revenge of the Ninja (1983) & Ninja III: The Domination (1984) with the Long Rewind
    Oct 22 2025
    When Ninjas Ruled the 80s: A Deep Dive into Daytime WarriorsWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast. Prepare yourself for a crossover extravaganza as hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell team up with special guest Professor Dustin Morrow from The Long Rewind Podcast to tackle one of the 80s' most inexplicable obsessions—ninjas! This isn't just any ninja discussion; it's a deep exploration of Revenge of the Ninja (1983) and Ninja 3: The Domination (1984), two Canon Films masterpieces that defined the era's fascination with mystical warriors who apparently preferred fighting in broad daylight.The Canon Films Ninja RevolutionThe hosts dive into how Israeli production company Canon Films single-handedly weaponized America's ninja obsession, churning out genre-defining films starring Sho Kosugi—the first Asian actor to headline major American action films. From Salt Lake City doubling as Los Angeles to ninjas scaling palm trees to fight helicopters, these movies redefined what action cinema could be on a shoestring budget. Revenge of the Ninja emerges as the "Citizen Kane of ninja movies," featuring some of the most jaw-dropping stunt work ever captured on film, all accomplished with just a few fearless stunt performers and zero CGI.Possession, Aerobics, and V8 JuiceNinja 3: The Domination takes the conversation into even stranger territory, combining ninja action with Flashdance-inspired aerobics sequences and full-blown demonic possession. Lucinda Dickey's telecom worker/aerobics instructor becomes possessed by an evil ninja spirit, leading to some of the most bewildering cinema of the decade. The hosts explore how this unholy mashup of genres created something uniquely, unforgettably 80s—complete with neon-soaked apartments, Patrick Nagel paintings, and one of cinema's most disturbing love scenes involving tomato juice.Additional Highlights:
    • The mystery of ninja costume storage capacity and infinite weapon supplies
    • Why "daytime ninjas" were apparently a legitimate career path
    • Canon Films' breakneck production schedule that gave us three Lucinda Dickey movies in one year
    • The Village People fight sequence that has to be seen to be believed
    • Hot tub death scenes as the ultimate 80s ninja execution method
    Final VerdictThe hosts agree these films represent peak 80s absurdity while delivering genuine thrills. Whether you're seeking unintentional comedy (Ninja 3) or surprisingly solid action filmmaking (Revenge of the Ninja), both movies offer essential viewing for understanding how ninjas conquered American pop culture one throwing star at a time.Connect & ExploreCheck out The Long Rewind podcastDiscover more about The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast and TruStory FM at trustory.fm. Want early, ad-free episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Join the community at trustory.fm/join.Follow the fun: Facebook | Instagram | BlueskyLearn more about the hosts' creative work: Neighborhood Comedy Theatre | Squishy StudiosWhat's your first memory of discovering ninjas in 80s pop culture? Was it through movies, toys, or those mysterious martial arts supply stores that seemed to exist in every strip mall?
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    1 h y 10 m
  • Spies Like Us (1985)

    Spies Like Us (1985)
    Oct 8 2025
    When Childhood Nostalgia Meets RealityKrissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by special guest Jordan Collier to revisit the 1985 spy comedy Spies Like Us, starring Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd. What happens when a beloved childhood favorite gets the modern rewatch treatment? Sometimes the results are as bumbling as the protagonists themselves.The Verdict: When Memory Lane Takes a DetourOur hosts discovered that Spies Like Us suffers from an identity crisis—never quite deciding whether it wants to be silly slapstick or serious espionage. While Jordan and Nathan remembered loving the film as kids, their adult viewing revealed a movie that couldn't nail down its tone, leaving characters without clear motivations and comedy that felt more meandering than memorable. The film's training montages and "Doctor! Doctor!" scenes still delivered laughs, but the lack of genuine tension between Chase and Aykroyd's characters left much to be desired.The consensus? Spies Like Us earns a middling 5 to 5.5 missiles out of 10—a film that works better as a nostalgic memory than a current viewing experience. Sometimes childhood classics are best left in the vault of fond recollections.Additional Takeaways:
    • The movie needed a third character to complete the comedic trio
    • Chevy Chase's character came across as surprisingly unlikable with modern eyes
    • The film's tonal shifts from broad comedy to serious nuclear warfare felt jarring
    • Dan Aykroyd's spy skills were inconsistent—sometimes brilliant, sometimes bumbling
    • The Bob Hope cameo represented the kind of absurdist comedy the film needed more of
    Connect With the Hosts
    • Learn more about this show and the TruStory FM network at trustory.fm. Want early, ad-free episodes plus bonus content? Check out membership options at trustory.fm/join.
    • Follow the podcast: Facebook | Instagram | Bluesky
    • Support the hosts: Neighborhood Comedy Theatre | Squishy Studios
    What's your take on rewatching childhood favorites? Do they hold up, or are some movies better left as treasured memories?
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    50 m
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