Don’t Push Pause

In 1999, three student filmmakers disappeared in the woods near Burkittsville, Maryland... or at least that's what audiences were led to believe. We’re venturing into the Black Hills Forest to revisit The Blair Witch Project—the independent horror film that changed the genre forever. We’ll explore the origins of the film, unconventional production, the importance of the cast, the groundbreaking marketing campaign that convinced many viewers the story was real & the lasting impact the film had on horror, found footage & internet culture. From stick figures hanging in the trees to one of the most unforgettable endings in horror history, we're discussing what made The Blair Witch Project a phenomenon & whether its scares still hold up more than 25 years later. Grab your map, don't kick it into the creek & try not to get lost.

With Friday the 13th creeping up again, it felt like the perfect time to head back to Camp Crystal Lake. In this episode, Lindsay & Justin take on the entire FRIDAY THE 13TH franchise — from the original summer camp shocker to telekinetic showdowns, red herrings, Manhattan field trips, outer space upgrades & beyond. But before these evocative debates, we rewind to the beginning & revisit the 1980 original — the scrappy little slasher that proved a good title, a creepy camp setting, & a lot of creative kills could launch one of horror’s most unstoppable sequel machines. The ranking of all 12 films will be revealed, favorites will be defended & sanity will be questioned throughout countless machete slayings. The rankings are in. Friendships may not survive, but Jason Voorhees will never die.

Halloween’s our favorite season, and despite being away from the mic for almost a year, we couldn’t let it pass us by. So we’re back — just in time for spooky season — with a special Don’t Push Pause comeback episode!This year’s treat? We’re kicking things off with Ranked!: A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (Franchise) — a sneak peek at our all-new format coming in 2026. Our deep dives into the best films of yesteryear aren’t going anywhere (never fear), but exciting changes are ahead, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the ride.For now, it’s time to face off. Justin and Lindsay compare their rankings of every Elm Street film — from dream demons to meta madness. Grab your popcorn (and maybe stay awake)… because Freddy’s not the only one making a comeback.

Prior to 1982’s FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH, few films were brazen enough to depict an honest slice of teenage high school life. But that all changed with the keenly observant & smart pairing of writer Cameron Crowe & director Amy Heckerling. Not only did it usher in a brave new baseline for teen stories, but it also launched countless budding careers. Let’s head back to school & rediscover the film that was edgy for its time… and now feels more progressive 40 years later!///***Discussions include***\\\Brief recap of Cameron Crowe’s early career & what led to his novel, Fast Times at Ridgemont High: A True Story, becoming a film; finding director Amy Heckerling, her relationship with Crowe & importance of a female voice; intense studio concerns, adapting the book, changes, creating a narrative flow, emotional complexity & tonality; soundtrack, the film’s ending, memorable moments, in-depth character & cast discussion; struggle with the MPAA, editing, test screening, release/reception, plus the top movies of 1982.Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judge Reinhold, Phoebe Cates & Sean Penn star in FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH (1982) /// Directed by Amy Heckerling.///***Picks of the Week***\\\ • Lindsay’s Pick: THE ANNIVERSARY PARTY (2001). Jennifer Jason Leigh, Alan Cumming, Phoebe Cates, Kevin Kline, Jennifer Beals /// Directed by Jennifer Jason Leigh & Alan Cumming. • Justin’s Pick: RUSH (1991). Jennifer Jason Leigh, Jason Patric, Sam Elliott, Max Perlich /// Directed by Lili Fini Zanuck..///***MurrayMoment***\\\Cameron Crowe’s seemingly impossible feat of landing Bill for his 2015 film, ALOHA.///***Final Thoughts on FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH***\\\Coming in October: CREEPSHOW (1982) • Please rate, review & subscribe. • Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube. • Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.comdontpushpausepodcast@gmail.comBe Kind & Rewatch // September 17, 2024

A movie that rallies behind underdogs has timeless appeal. The genuine camaraderie in MAJOR LEAGUE infuses audiences with the baseball spirit like no other sports comedy. Rooting for these Clevelanders is a no-brainer, so join us on this redemption story filled with heartfelt nuances & plenty of laughs. ///***Discussions include***\\\Writer/Director David S. Ward’s inspiration & career background; grounding the story in reality, authenticity & fandom; lengthy development process, chance meetings & studio doubts; gaining permission from the MLB, main shooting locations, filming tricks; requirements for casting, baseball boot camp & main character breakdowns; music, reception, sequels & favorite moments. Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, Wesley Snipes & Rene Russo star in MAJOR LEAGUE (1989) /// Directed by David S. Ward. . ///***Picks of the Week***\\\• Lindsay’s Pick: EIGHT MEN OUT (1988). John Cusack, David Strathairn, D.B. Sweeney, John Mahoney /// Directed by John Sayles.• Justin’s Pick: 61* (2001). Thomas Jane, Barry Pepper, Anthony Michael Hall /// Directed by Billy Crystal..///***MurrayMoment***\\\Find out what Bill was up to during the days surrounding the Cubs vs. Indians 2016 World Series. ///***Final Thoughts on MAJOR LEAGUE***\\\ . Coming in August: ARACHNOPHOBIA (1990) — Please rate, review & subscribe.— Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.— Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind & Rewatch // July 9, 2024.

Teaming up a sought-after writer & acclaimed director on a film should mean a box office smash. But the extravagant wildcard that is SHOWGIRLS was ridiculed the moment it hit theaters. However, reevaluation of the film’s heightened reality, intensity & stunning production quality have dispelled many early criticisms. Slap on some glitter, paint your nails & grab your switchblade because it’s time to discover the story behind this kitschy, controversial classic. ///***Discussions include***\\\Origin of & intentions behind the story, inspirations & production derailment; re-teaming of a celebrated & button-pushing writer/director duo, rewrites & funding; intentional visual style, overall hyperbolic nature & tonality; staging, choreography & physical demands; casting the lead, plus main cast & character breakdowns; struggle with NC-17 rating, advertising, reception & repercussions, plus the revival & longevity.Elizabeth Berkley, Gina Gershon & Kyle MacLachlan star in SHOWGIRLS (1995) /// Directed by Paul Verhoeven.///***Picks of the Week***\\\• Lindsay’s Pick: BOUND (1996). Gina Gershon, Jennifer Tilly, Joe Pantoliano /// Directed by Lana Wachowski & Lilly Wachowski.• Justin’s Pick: STARSHIP TROOPERS. (1997). Casper Van Dien, Dina Meyer, Denise Richards, Neil Patrick Harris /// Directed by Paul Verhoeven..///***MurrayMoment***\\\Billy finds himself in a perilous pool situation.///***Final Thoughts on SHOWGIRLS***\\\Coming in June: SPEED (1994)• Please rate, review & subscribe.• Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.• Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.comBe Kind & Rewatch // May 7, 2024

Independent cinema & Parker Posey were once synonymous together. PARTY GIRL provides a nuanced & legitimate snapshot of mid-‘90s New York, complete with updated screwball comedy vibes, an inspiring dose of youth-to-adulthood transition & charm from beginning to end. Strap in for this love letter to indie film! ///***Discussions include***\\\Story conception, inspirations, writer/director collaboration & refining the script; themes, tonality, authenticity & capturing a niche, contemporary reality; type of film & culture-clashing; finding the cast, character discussion & Parker Posey background; heavy music & fashion/costuming influences; difficulties with releasing, premiere & longevity of the film. Parker Posey, Omar Townsend, Guillermo Diaz & Sasha von Scherler star in PARTY GIRL (1995) /// Directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer. ///***Picks of the Week***\\\• Lindsay’s Pick: THE HOUSE OF YES (1997). Parker Posey, Freddie Prince Jr., Josh Hamilton, Tori Spelling /// Directed by Mark Waters.• Justin’s Pick: PRICE CHECK (2012). Parker Posey, Eric Mabius, Amy Schumer, Annie Parisse /// Directed by Michael Walker.///***MurrayMoment***\\\The same Lower Manhattan filming region for PARTY GIRL once provided a refuge for Billy & his SNL counterparts — time to go inside the legendary Blues Bar. ///***Final Thoughts on PARTY GIRL***\\\ --------------------------------------------- Coming in April: DONNIE DARKO (2001). • Please rate, review & subscribe.• Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.• Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.comdontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind & Rewatch // March 2024

On its 50th Anniversary, THE EXORCIST can still boast being as effective today as it was on its release date. With an intense production & determined minds, mix in some truth & multiple controversies, this film cemented a permanent place in pop culture history. Take a trip back to uncover the story behind the film which caused people to question their beliefs & faint in theaters. ///***Discussions include***\\\William Peter Blatty’s inspiration for & true story behind The Exorcist novel, plus fact vs. fiction comparisons; early readings & retaining the novel’s integrity; securing & fighting for William Friedkin to direct; screenplay adaptation, pacing & themes; production difficulties & studio interference; assembling the cast, complications, behind the scenes stories & character breakdowns; music, special effects, make-up & stunts; Friedkin’s unorthodox methods of direction & marketing, injuries & rumors; release, audience reactions & recognition; the 2000 re-release, initial sequels & memorable scenes. Linda Blair, Ellen Burstyn, Jason Miller & Max von Sydow star in THE EXORCIST (1973) /// Directed by William Friedkin. . ///***Picks of the Week***\\\• Lindsay’s Pick: BUG (2006). Ashley Judd, Michael Shannon, Harry Connick Jr. /// Directed by William Friedkin.• Justin’s Pick: CRUISING (1980). Al Pacino, Paul Sorvino, Karen Allen, Richard Cox /// Directed by William Friedkin..///***MurrayMoment***\\\Meager Murray Christmas memories, plus some love thrown to the family matriarch, Lucille. ///***Final Thoughts on THE EXORCIST***\\\ . Stay Tuned! We’ll return in February 2024 with All-New Episodes! • Please rate, review & subscribe.• Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.• Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind & Rewatch // December 5th, 2023

‘Tis the season! Strap on the chainsaw, brush up on your ancient Latin & saddle up for a relentlessly manic ride back to the cabin. Bruce Campbell & the Evil Dead crew return for this inventive, rip-roaring adventure that won’t stop until you’re possessed by its spirit!//***Discussions include***\\ The original Evil Dead creators returning to their roots, finding a producer & redux of Stephen King involvement; location importance & corner cutting; assessing what a sequel looks like, plot points, mixing horror & comedy; massive array of practice special effects & favorite moments; cast discussion & on set hardships; skirting around the MPAA rating, release, sequels & longevity of the franchise. Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry, Kassie Wesley, Dan Hicks, Richard Domeier & Ted Raimi star in EVIL DEAD II (1987) /// Directed by Sam Raimi. //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: BRAIN DAMAGE (1988). Rick Hearst, Jennifer Lowry, Gordon MacDonald /// Directed by Frank Henenlotter. Justin’s Pick: BUBBA HO-TEP (2002). Bruce Campbell, Ossie Davis, Ella Joyce, Heidi Marnhout, Bob Ivy /// Directed by Don Coscarelli. . //***MurrayMoment***\\ Billy plays the role of baseball announcer when he subs in for the Cubs mainstay, Harry Caray, in the spring of 1987 //***Final Thoughts on EVIL DEAD II***\\ Next Episode: AFTER HOURS (1985) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // October 10th, 2023.

This slyly executed, savage satire of a serial killer losing touch with reality was plagued with controversy from its original conception. Even now, the pathology of AMERICAN PSYCHO continues to spark dialogue with its entertaining critique of society & obsession, comic irony & why it remains relevant over 20 years later. Let’s peel back the mask & unveil truth behind this multifaceted, yet often misunderstood film. //***Discussions include***\\Background on Bret Easton Ellis’ contentious novel; early script variations, selling the story & searching for a director; Mary Harron & Guinevere Turner adapting the novel into a sharp & clear-headed, contemplative screenplay; tonal shifts, interpreting dark comedy & satire, recurring themes & the film’s climax; reflecting 80s culture & music choices; main cast discussion & intense struggle over casting the lead, plus release & reception. Christian Bale, Willem Defoe, Cara Seymour & Chloë Sevigny star in AMERICAN PSYCHO (2000) /// Directed by Mary Harron.//***Picks of the Week***\\• Lindsay’s Pick: DERANGED (1974). Roberts Blossom, Leslie Carlson, Marian Waldman, Micki Moore /// Directed by Alan Ormsby & Jeff Gillen. • Justin’s Pick: RAMPAGE (1987). Michael Biehn, Alex McArthur, Deborah Van Valkenburgh, Grace Zabriskie/ / Directed by William Friedkin.//***MurrayMoment***\\Comparing the stark differences on conformity between Bill & Patrick Bateman. //***Final Thoughts on the Music of AMERICAN PSYCHO ***\\Next Episode:TEEN WOLF (1985)• Please rate, review & subscribe.• Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.• Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.comdontpushpausepodcast@gmail.comBe Kind and Rewatch // August 15th, 2023.

For our Fifth Anniversary, returning to a nostalgic, lifelong favorite was a no-brainer. Forty years ago, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S VACATION set a standard for not only comedy & road trip films, but also introduced the edgy family film. Through humor, familiar experiences & relatable characters, the Griswold family spawned an unexpected franchise which continues to be passed down throughout the years. Hop in the ‘ol family truckster because we’re hitting the road! //***Discussions include***\\John Hughes’ original story & major script changes, plus National Lampoon, Harold Ramis & Chevy Chase connections; selling the film, creating a uniquely mobile production & challenges therein; type of comedy wrapped in a daring family film; cast, improv moments, stunts & theme song; omitted scenes & original ending; release, sequels, behind-the-scenes stories & favorite moments. Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Dana Barron & Anthony Michael Hall star in NATIONAL LAMPOON’S VACATION (1983) /// Directed by Harold Ramis. //***Picks of the Week***\\ • Lindsay’s Pick: SEEMS LIKE OLD TIMES (1980). Goldie Hawn, Chevy Chase, Charles Grodin, T.K. Carter /// Directed by Jay Sandrich. • Justin’s Pick: FLETCH (1985). Chevy Chase, Richard Libertini, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Tim Matheson // Directed by Michael Ritchie. //***MurrayMoment***\\The infamous Billy & Chevy fight — It’s time to set the record straight on what really happened & the motivations behind it. No rumor mill gossip here — only facts & quotes to bring you the full truth, finally! //***Final Thoughts on VACATION***\\ Thanks for listening, sharing & keeping us going for 5 years! Next Episode: SE7EN (1995) • Please rate, review & subscribe. • Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube. • Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.comdontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // June 20th, 2023.

First-time filmmakers rarely explode on the scene like brothers Albert & Allen Hughes. Amid the racial tensions & frustrations of early 1990's Los Angeles, MENACE II SOCIETY tapped into the gritty truth of the time. A powerful & empathetic look into a community misrepresented by mainstream media, this film was not only important in its heyday, but its unflinching realness hits even harder 30 years later.//***Discussions include***\\A brief history of the Hughes Brothers before MENACE; writing development, research, channeling a perspective & selling the script; reality vs. media representation; tonality, themes, underlying messages & film influences; shooting on location, visual style, depiction of violence, emotional impact & heightened realism; toxic masculinity & female perspective; use of narration & humor; cast, audition stories & character dynamics; post-production, release, reception & retrospective observations.Tyrin Turner, Larenz Tate, Jada Pinkett, MC Eiht & Vonte Sweet star in MENACE II SOCIETY (1993) /// Directed by The Hughes Brothers.//***Picks of the Week***\\ • Lindsay’s Pick: JASON’S LYRIC (1994). Allen Payne, Jada Pinkett, Bokeem Woodbine, Lisa Nicole Carson /// Directed by Doug McHenry. • Justin’s Pick: STRAIGHT OUT OF BROOKLYN (1991). Lawrence Gilliard, Jr., George T. Odom, Ann D. Sanders, Barbara Sanon /// THE INKWELL (1994). Larenz Tate, Joe Morton, Suzzanne Douglas, Glynn Turman // Both films directed by Matty Rich. //***MurrayMoment***\\At the suggestion of Chevy Chase, Billy & brother Brian hit up Rodney Dangerfield for marijuana during the filming of CADDYSHACK. //***Final Thoughts on MENACE II SOCIETY***\\Next Episode:SCHOOL OF ROCK (2003). • Please rate, review & subscribe. • Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube. • Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.www.dontpushpausepodcast.comdontpushpausepodcast@gmail.comBe Kind and Rewatch // April 25th, 2023

Lies… Manipulation… Gaslighting… OBSESSED. Obsession-driven psychodramas are a special sect of early ‘90s cinema. It also happens to be one of our favorite thriller sub-genres.But what makes them so special? What sets them apart & what do they share in common? We’ve honed in & created our own rules for the genre — what we love, the most memorable moments & how do these movies hold up 30+ years later? Let the thrills & chills begin! //***Films Included***\\ The Crush (1993), Fear (1996), The Hand that Rocks the Cradle (1992), Pacific Heights (1990), Poison Ivy (1992), Single White Female (1992), The Temp (1993), Unlawful Entry (1992). //***Picks of the Week***\\Returning in Episode 103. //***MurrayMoment***\\Returning in Episode 103. //***Final Thoughts on ***\\Episode wrap-up & a few outlier films which narrowly missed inclusion in this episode.Next Episode: March 28: MENACE II SOCIETY (1993).Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // February 28, 2023. xxx