the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast

Can Two People Just Be Friends? When Harry Met Sally… Says: Complicated.Welcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Show. Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by special guest Mandy Kaplan of Make Me a Nerd to revisit When Harry Met Sally… (1989), and the stakes are personal, because one of them is seeing it for the very first time, one has it as a gold standard, and one literally danced to its music at her wedding.The central question this crew wrestles with isn't just Harry's infamous thesis about men, women, and friendship. It's what happens when a movie is so embedded in the culture that you've absorbed its most famous moments without ever actually watching it. What does it feel like to finally sit down with something you've only known in clips? And does it land differently when you come in a skeptic? Spoiler-light from start to finish, the conversation stays at the level of feelings, not plot reveals.What fuels the discussion is the writing—Nora Ephron's screenplay, the improv that made it into the final cut, the genius of character names, the Pictionary scene, the baseball wave, the dual-landline mystery, and the surprisingly nuanced debate over whether Harry's answering machine serenade is romantic or just deeply tone-deaf. Rob Reiner gets his flowers too.The episode wraps with warmth, strong Say Anything feelings, and a bonus rec for a road trip you should probably take.TruStory FM | Membership (early, ad-free access + bonus content): Join | Socials: Facebook | Instagram | Bluesky | Learn more about the hosts: Neighborhood Comedy Theatre | Squishy StudiosDo you genuinely believe two people can be close friends without romantic feelings ever getting in the way—and has a movie ever changed your mind about it? ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.

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.

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 suppliesWhy "daytime ninjas" were apparently a legitimate career pathCanon Films' breakneck production schedule that gave us three Lucinda Dickey movies in one yearThe Village People fight sequence that has to be seen to be believedHot tub death scenes as the ultimate 80s ninja execution methodFinal 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? ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.

When Calculus Meets Heart: Stand and Deliver Gets the Math TreatmentWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell tackle the 1988 inspirational drama Stand and Deliver, starring Edward James Olmos as real-life teacher Jaime Escalante. This episode dives into whether this classroom classic still holds up or if it's just another case of sitting through endless math problems.The Good, The Bad, and The CalculusThe hosts appreciate Edward James Olmos' committed, Academy Award-nominated performance—he even underwent hair thinning for the role and followed the real teacher around for research. Lou Diamond Phillips also shines as Angel, the charismatic bad boy with hidden depths. However, Krissy and Nathan find themselves wanting more emotional depth and character development. They argue that while the movie succeeds as inspiration, it fails to show the real struggles and motivations that would drive these students to commit so deeply to advanced mathematics.The discussion takes an interesting turn when they question the practicality of teaching calculus versus life skills like tax accounting. They also critique the film's structure, noting that despite being billed as a comedy, it's more of a straightforward drama that keeps viewers at arm's length from the action. The hosts give Stand and Deliver a solid 6 out of 10, appreciating its heart while acknowledging its limitations.Additional Thoughts:The movie should have been called "Sit and Calculate" given how much sitting and math occursMore scenes showing students' home lives and personal struggles would have strengthened the narrativeThe ending needed more follow-up on what happened to these students after passing their AP examsEdward James Olmos deserved the Oscar over Michael Douglas that yearThe film lacks the dramatic tension found in other inspirational teacher moviesFinal VerdictWhile Stand and Deliver remains an earnest tribute to dedicated educators and student potential, the hosts feel it plays things too safe. It's a movie that works better in memory than on rewatch, though Olmos' powerhouse performance still delivers the goods.Ready to join the conversation about your favorite 80s movies? Learn more about The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast and get early, ad-free episodes plus bonus content by becoming a member at trustory.fm/join. Connect with the show on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky. Check out Nathan's filmmaking at Squishy Studios and catch Krissy live at the Neighborhood Comedy Theatre.What's your take on inspirational teacher movies—do they still motivate you, or do you find them lacking in real-world practicality like our hosts? ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.

Swing for the Fences: A Deep Dive into Bull DurhamWelcome to this episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast! Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell as they welcome special guest Nate McWhortor—a self-proclaimed superfan—to discuss the 1988 baseball romance Bull Durham. This isn't your typical sports movie; it's a sultry, quotable journey through minor league baseball that explores love, mentorship, and the religion of America's pastime.The Church of BaseballThe hosts dive deep into what makes Bull Durham unique among sports films. Unlike major league fantasies, this movie captures the gritty reality of minor league baseball—from shitty buses to $20,000 salaries. Guest Nate McWhortor brings real-world perspective, having worked for the Montgomery Biscuits after college, inspired by this very film. The discussion reveals how writer-director Ron Shelton's own minor league experience creates authentic moments that resonate with anyone who's lived the unglamorous side of professional sports.The trio explores the film's adult themes and memorable dialogue, from Kevin Costner's gruff wisdom as Crash Davis to Susan Sarandon's Annie Savoy—a poetry-loving baseball groupie who mentors young players. They analyze the unique love triangle that develops and how the film balances romance with genuine baseball storytelling. The conversation touches on everything from the film's hard R rating to its Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.Key Discussion Points:The authenticity of minor league baseball portrayal and its impact on small communitiesKevin Costner's evolution from leading man to "grumpy Costner" in this breakout roleThe film's adult themes and quotable dialogue that baseball fans still use todayHow Bull Durham differs from other 80s baseball movies like Major League and Field of DreamsThe unique perspective of having a female narrator in a male-dominated sports genreFinal VerdictThe hosts deliver their "garter ratings" with Nate giving his favorite film a perfect 10/10, while Krissy and Nathan both land on a respectable 7/10. Despite some pacing issues in the final act, everyone agrees the film holds up as both a baseball movie and a romance, though they warn it's definitely not for young viewers despite its quotable nature.Connect with the ShowDiscover more episodes and get early, ad-free access plus bonus content by becoming a member at trustory.fm/join. Learn more about the podcast and TruStory FM network at trustory.fm.Follow us: Facebook | Instagram | BlueskySupport our guests: Check out Nathan's films at Squishy Studios and catch both Krissy and Nate performing at Neighborhood Comedy Theatre in Mesa, Arizona.What's your favorite baseball movie quote that you still use in everyday conversation? ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.

Holy Multimedia Event, Batman!Join hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell with special guests Andy Nelson and Kyle Olson as they dive deep into Tim Burton's groundbreaking Batman (1989)—recorded live at the 2025 Phoenix Fan Fusion! This wasn't just a movie—it was a cultural phenomenon that changed everything we thought we knew about comic book adaptations.Michael Keaton's Controversial Casting & PerformanceThe hosts discuss the massive fan backlash when Michael Keaton was cast as the Dark Knight, fresh off his comedic role in Beetlejuice. Thousands of angry letters poured in, but Keaton proved everyone wrong with his brooding, murderous take on Batman that shocked audiences expecting the campy 1960s TV version.Jack Nicholson's Iconic JokerFrom his pre-accident mob boss persona to his chemical-scarred transformation, Nicholson's Joker became the gold standard for Batman villains. The podcast explores his elaborate makeup process, brilliant branding schemes, and surprisingly sympathetic balloon scene that made audiences feel bad for Gotham's Clown Prince of Crime.Tim Burton's Dark Gothic VisionBurton created a Gotham City so grimy and noir it felt like 1970s New York at its worst. The hosts praise the film's revolutionary approach to superhero storytelling—taking the genre seriously for the first time since Superman while establishing the template for modern comic book movies.Other Topics Covered:• The film's massive $411 million box office success and cultural impact• Batman's surprisingly murderous methods compared to modern interpretations• The practical challenges of the original Batsuit (couldn't turn his head!)• Prince's soundtrack and the unprecedented multimedia marketing blitz• Behind-the-scenes studio mandates including the bell tower finale• Robin Williams casting controversy and Hollywood politics• Vicki Vale's problematic romance subplot and 80s dating culture• The film's influence on superhero movie merchandising• Comparing different Batman actors across generationsFinal VerdictAll four hosts give Burton's Batman a solid 8 out of 10, praising its entertainment value, groundbreaking tone, and lasting influence while acknowledging some dated elements. This episode proves why Batman (1989) remains the definitive Dark Knight for an entire generation of fans.Subscribe to The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast for more deep dives into the decade's greatest films! ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.

Flashdance (1983)—Dream Big or Go Home?In this energetic episode of The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast, hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell dive into the iconic 1983 film Flashdance. Neither had seen the movie before, leading to some surprising reactions as they examine this influential 80s classic through modern eyes.Nathan reveals how Flashdance became the progenitor of the Simpson-Bruckheimer production style that dominated 80s and 90s cinema, influencing everything from Top Gun to Dirty Dancing and Footloose. The hosts discuss how this $7.5 million film that grossed nearly $100 million established the MTV-style visual language that would later evolve into the Michael Bay aesthetic.While Krissy found herself disappointed by the movie overall (giving it just 5 out of 10 "bras removed through shirts"), both hosts agree that the dance sequences are electrifying highlights in an otherwise disjointed narrative. They examine the film's problematic message about dreams and failure—that one setback means you should abandon your ambitions altogether.The hosts also explore the complex portrayal of Alex (Jennifer Beals) as a young woman experiencing sexual awakening while making questionable emotional decisions, and discuss the fascinating behind-the-scenes facts about Marine Jahan, the uncredited dance double who performed most of the iconic dance sequences.Other Topics Covered:The problematic age gap between 18-year-old Alex and her 36-year-old boss/love interestThe contrast between burlesque dancing at Mawby's Bar versus stripping at the club across the streetThe film's impressive soundtrack filled with 80s bangersJennifer Beals' performance and her famous "bra removal through sweater" techniqueThe supporting characters' abandoned dreams and limited character developmentNathan's recommendation of All That Jazz (1979) for a more substantive dance filmKrissy's unexpected endorsement of welding as an empowering hobbyWhether you're revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, this episode offers fascinating insights into how Flashdance helped shape 80s cinema despite its narrative shortcomings. As the hosts remind us, sometimes the most influential films aren't necessarily the most cohesive—but they can still deliver unforgettable moments that stand the test of time. ---Learn more about supporting this podcast by becoming a member. It's just $5/month or $55/year. Visit our website to learn more.