Shat the Movies: 80's & 90's Best Film Review

What are the The Best 1980s & 1990s Movies? Do you find yourself asking if the movies we loved while growing up were really that good? Have you caught yourself thinking, “why don’t make movies like they use to?” Can you still remember spending your Friday Nights searching for the perfect movie rental at Blockbuster Video? Do you know what Blockbuster Video is? If you answered yes, then this is the podcast for you! Website: http://shatthemovies.com/the-best-80s-90s-movies/ Email: [email protected]

Die Hard With A Vengeance (1995) 02/01/2025

Die Hard 2 (1990) 01/22/2025

Class of Nuke 'Em High (1986) 01/20/2025

Slap Shot (1977) 01/15/2025

8mm (1999) 01/01/2025

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) 12/24/2024

Thief (1981) 12/24/2024

Thief (1981) This week on "Shat the Movies," we’re diving into Thief (1981), Michael Mann’s gritty, neon-lit crime drama starring James Caan. Join us as we explore the world of Frank, a professional thief with a plan, as he navigates loyalty, betrayal, and the high cost of trust. We’ll discuss the film’s stylish direction, intense performances, and its influence on later crime thrillers. Whether you’re a fan of Mann’s work or new to this classic, tune in for a deep dive into one of the best heist films of the ‘80s! Plot Summary: In the 1981 neo-noir crime thriller Thief, directed by Michael Mann, James Caan stars as Frank, a skilled safecracker and professional thief who dreams of leaving his criminal life behind to pursue a normal existence. Frank operates with precision and discipline, running his own crew and keeping his operations clean and professional. His ultimate goal is to settle down with his girlfriend, Jessie (Tuesday Weld), and start a family. Frank's plans take a turn when a powerful Chicago mob boss, Leo (Robert Prosky), offers him a lucrative job with promises of financial security and a quick path to retirement. Initially reluctant, Frank agrees to the deal, lured by the prospect of fulfilling his dream. However, as he becomes entangled in Leo’s web of control, Frank realizes that walking away from the mob may be harder—and deadlier—than he anticipated. The film features one of its most iconic scenes early on: an intense, wordless safecracking sequence that showcases Frank’s meticulous craftsmanship, set against a haunting score by Tangerine Dream. As the story unfolds, Frank’s moral code is tested, and his determination to break free from his past leads to explosive confrontations with Leo and his henchmen. Thief is a quintessential Michael Mann film, blending atmospheric visuals, urban grit, and a character-driven story of ambition and betrayal. James Caan’s powerhouse performance captures the complexity of a man struggling to reconcile his criminal skills with his desire for a better life. The film’s themes of independence, loyalty, and personal freedom resonate through its high-stakes narrative and stunning action sequences. Join our podcast review as we revisit Thief, discussing its intense heist scenes, iconic soundtrack, and whether this neo-noir classic still stands as one of the best in its genre today. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/34594875

Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) 12/14/2024

Outland (1981) 12/05/2024

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) 11/27/2024

Empire of The Sun (1987) 11/23/2024

The First Power (1990) 11/18/2024

The First Power (1990) This week on "Shat the Movies," we’re diving into The First Power (1990)! Join us as we follow Lou Diamond Phillips’ cop on the hunt for a resurrected serial killer with a sinister supernatural ability. We’ll unpack the film’s blend of horror, action, and thrills, exploring what makes it a unique ‘90s thriller. Whether you’re a fan or new to the film, tune in for a fun and spooky ride through this supernatural crime drama! Plot Summary: In the 1990 supernatural thriller The First Power, directed by Robert Resnikoff, Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Russell Logan, a tough Los Angeles detective who captures a notorious serial killer, Patrick Channing (Jeff Kober), known for his ritualistic murders. Channing, dubbed “The Pentagram Killer,” is sentenced to death and executed in the gas chamber. However, Logan soon learns that Channing’s death was only the beginning. The killer made a demonic pact granting him "the first power," a supernatural ability to return from the dead with the power of possession. Logan teams up with psychic Tess Seaton (Tracy Griffith), whose disturbing visions had helped him capture Channing initially. Now, her psychic abilities reveal that Channing has come back from the grave, more dangerous than ever. Channing’s new power allows him to inhabit the bodies of others, making him an unpredictable and unstoppable force as he resumes his killing spree. Logan, a hardened skeptic, is forced to confront the reality of the supernatural as he battles against an evil far beyond his understanding. As the possessed Channing terrorizes the city, Logan and Tess must race against time to stop him before he claims more victims. Their investigation leads them through dark alleys, abandoned buildings, and intense confrontations that test Logan’s resolve and Tess’s psychic abilities. The film’s blend of police procedural and supernatural horror keeps the tension high, leading to a climactic showdown between Logan and the malevolent, seemingly invincible Channing. The First Power combines intense action, horror, and suspense, featuring a chilling performance from Jeff Kober and a gritty portrayal by Lou Diamond Phillips. Join our podcast review as we dive into this 90s thriller, exploring its unique premise, memorable scares, and whether it still delivers the chills today. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/33968402

Zoolander (2001) 11/05/2024

Halloween 2 (1981) 11/02/2024

Carrie (1976) 10/30/2024

Just One of The Guys (1985) 10/27/2024

Run Lola Run (1998) 10/19/2024

Run Lola Run (1998) This week on "Shat the Movies," we’re sprinting into the energetic world of Run Lola Run (1998)! Join us as we follow the heart-pounding journey of Lola, played by Franka Potente, as she races against time to save her boyfriend in a series of electrifying scenarios. We’ll explore the film’s innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, and the pulse-pounding soundtrack that keep you on the edge of your seat. From the high-stakes decisions to the alternate realities, this film redefines the action genre in a unique way. Whether you’re revisiting this stylish classic or experiencing it for the first time, get ready for a fast-paced discussion that highlights the thrill of running against the clock! Plot Summary: In the 1998 German thriller Run Lola Run, directed by Tom Tykwer, Franka Potente stars as Lola, a young woman who embarks on a heart-pounding race against time to save her boyfriend, Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu). Manni, a low-level criminal, loses 100,000 Deutsche Marks in a botched money drop for his gangster boss. With only 20 minutes to find the money and prevent Manni from committing a desperate robbery, Lola is thrown into a frantic quest through the streets of Berlin. The film's narrative structure is one of its most unique features, unfolding in three different versions of the same story. Each version explores how small changes in Lola’s actions and timing lead to drastically different outcomes. Whether by chance encounters, split-second decisions, or twists of fate, each run has profound consequences, shaping the lives of Lola, Manni, and the people they encounter. The film masterfully blends live-action sequences with animated inserts, set to an energetic techno soundtrack that drives the relentless pace. Tykwer's innovative use of time loops and alternative storylines keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, turning what could have been a simple rescue mission into a philosophical exploration of fate, chance, and the power of individual decisions. As Lola sprints through the city, encountering obstacles and allies, Run Lola Run keeps audiences captivated with its kinetic energy, visual style, and themes of love, loyalty, and determination. The film's fast-paced, high-stakes action, combined with its unconventional storytelling, has made it a cult favorite. Join our podcast review as we dive into this adrenaline-fueled thriller, discussing its groundbreaking narrative structure, stunning visuals, and whether its pulse-pounding excitement still resonates with modern audiences. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/33521347

Withnail and I (1987) 10/11/2024

Close Encounters of The Third Kind (1977) 10/05/2024

Betty Blue (1986) 09/28/2024

Betty Blue (1986) In the 1986 French romantic drama Betty Blue (37°2 le matin), directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix, Jean-Hugues Anglade stars as Zorg, a laid-back handyman and aspiring writer living a simple life in a beachside bungalow. His world is turned upside down when he meets Betty, played by Béatrice Dalle, a passionate and impulsive young woman. Their intense relationship quickly evolves into a whirlwind romance filled with passion, creativity, and chaos. Betty, who is wild and free-spirited, encourages Zorg to pursue his dream of becoming a writer, believing in his talent more than he does. However, as their love deepens, it becomes apparent that Betty’s erratic behavior is a sign of a much deeper emotional and psychological instability. As she spirals into unpredictable bouts of anger and despair, Zorg’s life begins to unravel, and their relationship is put to the ultimate test. Determined to support Betty, Zorg follows her through a series of wild adventures, including a move to the city and a desperate attempt to get his novel published. Despite their shared moments of bliss and creativity, Betty's mental health deteriorates, pushing Zorg to the limits of love and devotion as he struggles to cope with her increasingly volatile behavior. Betty Blue is a visually stunning and emotionally charged exploration of love, madness, and the fine line between passion and obsession. The film, set against the backdrop of 1980s France, captures the highs and lows of an all-consuming relationship. Join our podcast review as we revisit this cult classic, discussing its haunting performances, striking visuals, and whether its raw portrayal of love and mental illness still resonates with audiences today. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/33241317

Payback (1999) 09/19/2024

A Fish Called Wanda (1988) 09/13/2024

A Fish Called Wanda (1988) Join us on this week’s "Shat the Movies" as we dive into the 1988 comedy classic, A Fish Called Wanda! We’ll revisit the film’s hilarious heist and standout performances, promising a fun and entertaining look back at this comedy gem. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the movie, we’ve got plenty of laughs and insights to share. Tune in for a splashy good time and see why A Fish Called Wanda still makes waves today! Plot Summary:In the 1988 comedy A Fish Called Wanda, directed by Charles Crichton, an ensemble cast led by John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin delivers a hilarious tale of crime, deception, and romance. Jamie Lee Curtis stars as Wanda Gershwitz, a seductive and cunning con artist who, along with her lover Otto West (Kevin Kline), a dim-witted, pseudo-intellectual American, teams up with George Thomason (Tom Georgeson), a British gangster, to pull off a lucrative diamond heist in London. However, when Wanda and Otto double-cross George, hoping to take the diamonds for themselves, things quickly spiral out of control. George is arrested, but not before he secretly moves the diamonds to a hidden location, giving Wanda and Otto no choice but to try to manipulate George's timid and animal-loving accomplice, Ken Pile (Michael Palin), who is fiercely loyal to George and has no intention of divulging the secret. Wanda decides to seduce George's barrister, Archie Leach (John Cleese), believing he can provide vital information on the diamonds' whereabouts. As Archie, a stuffy, unfulfilled lawyer stuck in a loveless marriage, becomes captivated by Wanda's charms, he unwittingly finds himself caught up in a tangled web of lies, betrayal, and escalating chaos. Meanwhile, Otto, jealous of Wanda's growing attraction to Archie, adds to the pandemonium with his violent outbursts and comically misguided attempts at sabotage. A Fish Called Wanda combines witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and masterful performances to create a comedic masterpiece that has delighted audiences for decades. Join our podcast review as we revisit this beloved classic and discuss its timeless humor, unforgettable characters, and whether its brilliant blend of wit and farce still entertains today's viewers. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/33045427

SLC Punk! (1998) 09/07/2024

SLC Punk! (1998) In this episode of 'Shat the Movies,' we're cranking up the volume and diving into the punk rock chaos of "SLC Punk!" from 1998. Join us as we explore the anarchic adventures of Stevo and Heroin Bob through the conservative streets of Salt Lake City. We'll laugh at the outrageous antics, critique the edgy fashion, and debate whether the film's bold statements about rebellion and conformity still resonate today. It's a raucous trip back to the '90s punk scene you won't want to miss! Plot Summary: In the 1998 cult classic SLC Punk!, directed by James Merendino, Matthew Lillard stars as Steven "Stevo" Levy, a rebellious young punk living in the conservative heart of Salt Lake City, Utah, during the 1980s. Stevo, along with his best friend Bob (Michael A. Goorjian), navigates the underground punk scene, pushing back against the expectations of their parents, society, and the straight-laced Mormon culture that surrounds them. The film follows Stevo and Bob as they embrace the chaos of their lifestyle, engaging in anti-establishment antics, getting into fights, and throwing themselves into a world of drugs, music, and countercultural rebellion. While Stevo’s lawyer father (Christopher McDonald) pressures him to follow a more conventional path by attending Harvard Law School, Stevo remains committed to living out his anarchist philosophy, rejecting what he sees as the hypocrisy and conformity of mainstream society. As Stevo recounts his journey through a series of vignettes, the film captures the highs and lows of a punk's life in a city that's far from a punk haven. His relationships with his girlfriend, Sandy (Jennifer Lien), and the other eccentric characters in the scene, like the junkie Heroin Bob (despite his name, ironically against drug use), add depth and humor to the story. However, as the reality of their choices begins to take its toll, Stevo is forced to confront the contradictions in his life and the true cost of his rebellion. The film explores the conflict between idealism and growing up, questioning whether it's possible to hold onto one's beliefs in a world that demands compromise. Join our podcast review of SLC Punk! as we dive into the raw energy, biting humor, and cultural critique of this unique 90s indie film, and explore if its message still resonates today, Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32953492

Face/Off (1997) 08/30/2024

Face/Off (1997) Shat The Movies' Nicolas Cage block continues with a commission for listener Frank F. And if you thought "Con Air" was wild, we dare you to watch "Face/Off." John Woo's stateside directorial debut had Dick and Gene talking about acceptable Dude Wipe usage, the proper order for face-swapping surgery, gratuitous police deaths, and how two women and one man can make a sex sandwich. Plot Summary: "Face/Off" In the 1997 action-thriller Face/Off, directed by John Woo, John Travolta stars as Sean Archer, an FBI agent obsessed with capturing Castor Troy, a notorious terrorist played by Nicolas Cage. Years earlier, Troy murdered Archer’s young son, sparking a relentless pursuit. Archer finally captures Troy after a dramatic and intense shootout. However, Archer's victory is bittersweet, as he discovers that Troy has planted a deadly bomb in Los Angeles set to detonate soon, and only Troy’s imprisoned brother, Pollux Troy, knows its location. To extract the bomb's location, Archer undergoes a radical and secretive surgical procedure to swap faces with the comatose Troy, adopting his enemy’s identity. Disguised as Castor Troy, Archer enters a high-security prison to gain information from Pollux. But the mission goes disastrously wrong when the real Troy awakens from his coma and forces the surgeons to swap his face with Archer’s, taking over his enemy's life. Now, Troy lives freely as Archer, assuming his role in the FBI and infiltrating his family, including his wife, Eve (Joan Allen), and daughter, Jamie (Dominique Swain). Trapped in Troy's body and on the run, Archer must navigate the criminal underworld to survive, reclaim his true identity, and stop Troy from destroying his life and loved ones. What follows is a gripping game of cat and mouse filled with explosive action, high-speed chases, and intense shootouts. As both men exploit their new identities, they blur the lines between hero and villain, leading to a climactic showdown that tests their limits. Face/Off delivers a unique blend of psychological drama and over-the-top action, featuring standout performances by Nicolas Cage and John Travolta as they expertly swap roles. Tune into our podcast review to see if this 90s classic still captivates modern audiences with its blend of thrilling action and complex characters Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32816112

Con Air (1997) 08/21/2024

Con Air (1997) If Michael Bay movies are orange juice, "Con Air" is orange-juice concentrate—loaded with stars, explosions and plot holes. What else would you expect from Shat The Movies commissioner extraordinaire Frank F? Simon West's directorial debut had the Shat Crew scratching their heads. The geography makes no sense. The crime makes no sense. The courts make no sense. Even prison had Dick and Gene confounded. But there was no mystery to the entertainment factor of this summer blockbuster. Cartoon bad guys, over-the-top action sequences, and some of 1997's hottest actors make "Con Air" a standout movie ... even if it isn't a particularly good one. Plot Summary: In the 1997 action-packed thriller Con Air, directed by Simon West, Nicolas Cage stars as Cameron Poe, an honorably discharged Army Ranger who is imprisoned after a deadly confrontation defending his wife, Tricia (Monica Potter). After serving eight years, Poe is finally paroled and set to reunite with his family. His trip home, however, takes a dangerous turn when he is placed aboard a prison transport plane, the "Jailbird," filled with some of the most violent and notorious criminals in the country. John Malkovich co-stars as Cyrus "The Virus" Grissom, a psychopathic mastermind who leads a group of inmates in a daring hijack of the plane. With his fellow convicts, including Diamond Dog (Ving Rhames) and Garland Greene (Steve Buscemi), Cyrus plans to escape to a foreign country, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Poe, who wants no part of the escape but is determined to protect his diabetic cellmate, Baby-O (Mykelti Williamson), and a female guard (Rachel Ticotin), covertly works against the convicts while keeping his identity as a free man a secret. Meanwhile, U.S. Marshal Vince Larkin (John Cusack) races against time on the ground to stop the convicts from reaching their destination. As Poe navigates the chaos on board, he must outsmart the criminals and take control of the plane to ensure the safety of the innocent people onboard and finally make it home to his family. Con Air is a high-octane ride filled with explosive action, memorable one-liners, and intense performances from its ensemble cast. Tune in to our podcast review as we dissect the film's over-the-top action sequences, unforgettable characters, and the classic 90s charm that has made it a cult favorite. Does this adrenaline-fueled blockbuster still soar with audiences today? Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32667612

The Little Mermaid (1989) 08/14/2024

The Little Mermaid (1989) “The Little Mermaid” sparked the Disney Renaissance of the ’90s, burning unforgettable songs like “Under The Sea” and “Part of Your World” into the memories of Gen X and Millennials alike. Since then, Pixar and other studios have pushed animated features to levels we never thought possible. Digital framerates, lighting, sound and design are near perfection, making Disney’s 1989 release feel a little dated. But old isn’t necessarily bad. So listener Jackson M. posed this question to Shat The Movies: Does a 35-year-old “The Little Mermaid” still hold up? And it was a tough one to answer. Plot Summary: In this episode, the Shat Crew explores whether Ariel was a nightmare child, why King Triton entrusted her safety to a singing crab and how Disney handled a teen mermaid’s transition into a human girl. In the 1989 animated musical classic The Little Mermaid, directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, Jodi Benson voices Ariel, a curious and spirited young mermaid princess with an insatiable desire to explore the human world above the sea. As the youngest daughter of King Triton (Kenneth Mars), ruler of the undersea kingdom of Atlantica, Ariel is drawn to the forbidden world of humans, much to her father’s disapproval. She collects human artifacts and dreams of living on land, where she feels she truly belongs. One night, during a daring exploration, Ariel saves Prince Eric (Christopher Daniel Barnes) from a shipwreck and instantly falls in love with him. Determined to be with Eric, Ariel makes a dangerous pact with Ursula (Pat Carroll), the sea witch. Ursula offers Ariel a chance to become human for three days in exchange for her voice. If Ariel can win Eric’s love and receive a “true love’s kiss” within that time, she will remain human forever; if she fails, she will belong to Ursula. As Ariel navigates the complexities of the human world with the help of her friends, the lovable Flounder (Jason Marin) and Sebastian (Samuel E. Wright), the Caribbean crab who serves as King Triton’s advisor, she finds herself closer to her dreams. However, Ursula’s treacherous plans threaten not only Ariel’s chance at love but also the entire underwater kingdom. The Little Mermaid is a timeless tale of courage, love, and self-discovery, featuring unforgettable songs like “Part of Your World,” “Under the Sea,” and “Kiss the Girl,” which won Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Original Song. Join our podcast review as we dive deep into Ariel’s undersea adventure to see if this Disney classic still enchants audiences today with its magic, music, and message. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song – Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32576537

Cloak & Dagger (1984) 08/07/2024

Cloak & Dagger (1984) For years, Dick Ebert has been crowing about "Cloak & Dagger" — the video game angle, the spycraft, the majesty of the San Antonio River Walk. Now it's time to see if this 1984 version of a children's movie still holds up. Starring the late Dabney Coleman, "Cloak & Dagger" transports us to a world where boys kill grown men, berets stop bullets and little girls can carry bombs through airport security. If all this sounds fun, it is. But there's a sadder side to "Cloak & Dagger." It's a film that made the Shat Crew realize Henry Thomas was doomed to always play a child from a broken home, some guys get to swear sweatpants to work and the parents of Gen X didn't care very much about their children. Plot Summary: In the 1984 adventure thriller Cloak & Dagger, directed by Richard Franklin, Henry Thomas stars as Davey Osborne, an imaginative 11-year-old boy with a passion for spy games and video games. Living with his father, Hal Osborne (Dabney Coleman), a busy Air Force officer and widower, Davey often retreats into a fantasy world where he imagines himself as a secret agent on daring missions, guided by his imaginary friend and video game hero, Jack Flack, also played by Coleman. When Davey stumbles upon a murder and discovers that a cartridge of his favorite game, "Cloak & Dagger," contains secret government information, he is thrust into a real-life spy adventure. As he tries to convince the adults around him that he has uncovered an international espionage plot, Davey finds himself pursued by dangerous agents who will stop at nothing to retrieve the cartridge. Armed only with his quick thinking and inspired by his imaginary hero, Jack Flack, Davey must navigate a world filled with danger and deception to survive. Along the way, he is joined by his best friend, Kim (Christina Nigra), and together, they must outsmart the sinister spies who have infiltrated his hometown. As the line between fantasy and reality blurs, Davey realizes that he can’t rely solely on his imagination and must summon real courage to confront the threats facing him and protect those he loves. Cloak & Dagger is a unique blend of childhood adventure, suspense, and 1980s nostalgia, featuring a story that captures the thrill of espionage while exploring themes of bravery, friendship, and the power of imagination. Tune in to our podcast review to revisit this underrated gem and find out if its mix of fantasy and real-life danger still entertains modern audiences today. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32472172

Less Than Zero (1987) 08/02/2024

Less Than Zero (1987) In this episode of Shat the Movies, we tackle Less Than Zero (1987), where college freshman Clay (Andrew McCarthy) comes back to LA to find his ex, Blair (Jami Gertz), and his childhood buddy, Julian (Robert Downey Jr.), deep into cocaine addiction With Julian owing money to the ruthless dealer Rip (James Spader), Clay's mission to help them clean up reveals the wild side of '80s excess. Join us as we dig into the intense story, killer performances, and the movie's spot in the Brat Pack era, all set to an unforgettable soundtrack. Plot Summary: In the 1987 drama Less Than Zero, directed by Marek Kanievska and based on Bret Easton Ellis's controversial novel, Andrew McCarthy stars as Clay, a clean-cut college freshman who returns home to Los Angeles for Christmas break. He is immediately pulled back into the troubled world he left behind, filled with the excesses and temptations of the wealthy, decadent 1980s elite. At the center of this world are his two close friends: Julian (Robert Downey Jr.), a charming but self-destructive young man battling a severe drug addiction, and Blair (Jami Gertz), Clay's former girlfriend who is now romantically involved with Julian. Clay is quickly confronted with the devastating consequences of his friends' choices. Julian, once a promising entrepreneur, is now deeply in debt to a ruthless drug dealer named Rip (James Spader). As Julian spirals further into his addiction, Clay is torn between his desire to help his friend and his growing frustration with the hedonistic lifestyle that seems to be consuming everyone around him. Blair, caught in her own struggles, pleads with Clay to stay and help save Julian, forcing Clay to face the harsh realities of addiction and the consequences of unchecked privilege. As the trio navigates a world filled with drugs, parties, and moral decay, Clay must decide how far he's willing to go to save his friends from themselves. The film offers a stark look at the hollow core of a generation lost in the pursuit of pleasure and materialism, set against the backdrop of a glittering but soulless Los Angeles. Less Than Zero is a haunting exploration of friendship, loss, and the dark side of 1980s excess. Join our podcast review as we examine this gritty drama and discuss whether its portrayal of youthful disillusionment and moral ambiguity still resonates with audiences today. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32393782

Suburban Commando (1991) 07/25/2024

Suburban Commando (1991) Before Hulk Hogan was tearing up shirts at the Republican National Convention, he was a movie star battling galactic threats alongside Christopher Lloyd. That's why Shat The Movies die-hard Tom (formerly of Crane, Texas) asked us to review "Suburban Commando." And when the time came to crowdfund Tom's commission, Carlos The Mailman led the charge to make it happen. Fast forward a few years, and it's finally here: Gene and Dick are diving into a movie originally written for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito, loaded with mime jokes and featuring a young Elizabeth Moss and Undertaker. We dedicate this episode to the late Shelley Duvall, who tragically passed just hours after we recorded. Watch Live Video Recording: Plot Summary: In the 1991 sci-fi comedy *Suburban Commando*, directed by Burt Kennedy, Hulk Hogan stars as Shep Ramsey, a galactic warrior from another planet on a mission to defeat the evil intergalactic tyrant, General Suitor (William Ball). After a fierce battle, Shep’s spaceship is damaged, forcing him to land on Earth for repairs. Stranded in a quiet suburban neighborhood, he must blend in with the locals while waiting for his ship to recharge. To maintain a low profile, Shep rents a room in the home of Charlie Wilcox (Christopher Lloyd), a mild-mannered architect, and his wife Jenny (Shelley Duvall). As Shep struggles to adapt to suburban life, he finds himself out of his element, battling everyday challenges like clueless neighbors, malfunctioning appliances, and local bullies. Meanwhile, Charlie grows suspicious of his unusual tenant and tries to figure out what Shep is hiding. Chaos ensues as Shep’s alien gadgets and superhuman strength lead to a series of comedic misadventures that leave the neighborhood in disarray. Things take a serious turn when General Suitor's henchmen track Shep to Earth, threatening both him and the unsuspecting Wilcox family. Charlie, who has been frustrated by Shep’s presence, must now join forces with the outlandish space hero to save his family and the planet from impending doom. Together, they must overcome their differences and learn to work as a team to defeat the alien invaders. *Suburban Commando* blends science fiction, comedy, and action, offering a lighthearted take on the classic fish-out-of-water story. With its mix of slapstick humor and superhero antics, the film showcases the charisma of Hulk Hogan and the comedic timing of Christopher Lloyd. Join our podcast review as we revisit this early 90s cult favorite and discuss whether its quirky humor and nostalgic charm still appeal to today’s audiences. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song - Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32285737

Wildcats (1986) 07/18/2024

Wildcats (1986) If you thought “woman football coach in 1986” was the daring part of “Wildcats,” think again. This Goldie Hawn classic was raunchy, sneaky and full of representation. “Wildcats” got Big D to open up about being a soft child. It gave Gene a chance to talk about his illustrious football career. And it provided a cautionary tale about grownups partying with teens. In this episode, Dick writes a fanfic mashup of “Wildcats” and “Adventures in Babysitting” while Gene learns how to make children listen. Wholesome! Molly McGrath (Goldie Hawn) is following her dreams when she quits her cushy girls track coaching position at Prescott High to become the boys football coach at inner-city Central High. Even though she’s faced with both racial and gender prejudices, she whips the team into shape, so they can compete against Prescott High in the final. All the while, Molly is also dealing with her ex-husband, Frank Needham (James Keach), who is trying to get custody of their two young daughters. Plot Summary: In the 1986 sports comedy Wildcats, directed by Michael Ritchie, Goldie Hawn stars as Molly McGrath, a determined high school track coach who dreams of coaching football. Molly, who has grown up around the sport thanks to her father’s coaching legacy, is eager to break into the male-dominated field of high school football coaching. Despite her knowledge and passion, Molly faces skepticism and resistance from the school administration and her male colleagues, who doubt her ability to handle a rough sport. When an opportunity arises to coach the Central High Wildcats, a struggling inner-city team with a notorious losing streak, Molly jumps at the chance to prove herself. The Wildcats are a chaotic group of undisciplined players, led by quarterback Levander ‘Bird’ Williams (Wesley Snipes) and wide receiver Trumaine (Woody Harrelson), who are initially resistant to having a woman coach. Molly faces additional challenges, including managing the players’ antics, dealing with her condescending ex-husband Frank (James Keach), and facing her skeptical male peers. However, Molly brings her own brand of motivation, blending tough love, humor, and innovative coaching techniques to win over her team. As Molly pushes her players to believe in themselves and each other, they begin to transform from a ragtag group into a cohesive and competitive unit. She not only teaches them the fundamentals of football but also instills values like teamwork, perseverance, and respect. Through ups and downs, the Wildcats rally under Molly’s leadership, defying expectations and striving to turn their season around. Wildcats is a heartwarming and humorous story about breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, featuring spirited performances from Goldie Hawn and a young Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson. Join our podcast review as we revisit this 80s sports comedy and explore whether its charm and message still resonate with today’s audiences. Subscribe Now Android: Apple/iTunes: Help Support the Podcast Contact Us: Commission Movie: Support with Paypal: Support With Venmo: Shop Merchandise: Theme Song – Die Hard by Guyz Nite: /episode/index/show/shatthemovies/id/32191892

Shat the Movies: 80's & 90's Best Film Review

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