#127 - "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure" (1985) with Ben Carpenter & Laramy Wells
In this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast, we dive into the quirky charm of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985), a film that not only captured the essence of the 1980s but also became a pop culture touchstone. Blending childhood innocence with the decade’s irreverent humor, it launched Tim Burton’s directorial career and solidified Paul Reubens' Pee-wee Herman as an iconic figure. Join Tim Williams and his guest co-hosts Ben Carpenter & Laramy Wells as they discuss Pee-wee’s abs…
#123 - "Gremlins" (1984) with Gerry D (Special Replay)
In this special replay episode, we dive back into the chaotic, festive, and mischievous world of "Gremlins" (1984). Joined by special guest co-host Gerry D., we revisit this 80s classic that blends comedy, horror, and holiday spirit in a way only director Joe Dante can deliver. Gerry and I discuss first-time-watch memories, favorite scenes, and the timeless appeal of Gizmo and his unruly counterparts.
We'll also uncover behind-the-scenes stories about the effects used for t…
BONUS - "Six Pack" (1982) with Chris Adams & Ben Carpenter
Rediscover a hidden gem of the 80s! While "Six Pack" (1982) may not be a blockbuster, it holds a special place in the cultural memory of many who grew up in that era. This forgotten flick, perhaps where some first learned about love, life, and the charm of Kenny Rogers, offers a unique blend of humor and drama.
Join us as we delve into the seemingly absurd, yet utterly charming, premise: a washed-up race car driver finds a second chance when he encounters a group of orphane…
#122 - "Splash" (1984) with Ben Carpenter and Bethany Wells
Dive into the enchanting world of "Splash" (1984), the iconic 80s romantic comedy that redefined the boy-meets-girl story. This beloved film, where a man falls for a woman who happens to be a mermaid, charmed audiences with its unique blend of fantasy, humor, and heartwarming romance. Join us as we explore how she adapts to life on land and if her love can conquer the challenges of two vastly different worlds.
On this episode of the '80s Flick Flashback Podcast, Tim Wi…
#120 - "Beetlejuice" (1988) with Laramy & Bethany Wells
Say his name three times and he will appear. With his unruly green hair, pinstripe suit, and unusual mannerisms, the malicious spirit became a film icon. But before the dark comedy premiered, the studio and half of the cast weren't exactly convinced that audiences would be willing to take the wild ride about a bio-exorcist. The original script was vastly different, offering a darker and more deadly take before humor was eventually (and successfully) sprinkled in during production. The u…
#119 - "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" (1989) with Nicholas Pepin, Chad Sheppard, and Laramy Wells
Imagine pitching this to a movie studio in the 80s: two clueless slackers travel through time in a phone booth, rounding up historical figures for their high school history project. Not exactly an easy sell, right? But what started as a quirky stand-up routine from college pals Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon turned into a surprise hit. The film didn’t just make money—it inspired a sequel, an animated series, a comic book, and even its own breakfast cereal
So, jump into the time-traveling p…
#118 - "Weird Science" (1985) with Ben Carpenter, Darby Mirocha & Laramy Wells
John Hughes is known for making popular movies about teenagers in the 1980s. He started as a National Lampoon's Magazine writer and then began writing scripts in 1979. In 1984, he directed "Sixteen Candles". The next year, he directed two well-known movies, "The Breakfast Club" and this '80s flick. Many people think "The Breakfast Club" is better, but this one is special because it mixes comedy with science fiction. The movie is about two unpopular boy…
#117 - "The Running Man" (1987) with Nicholas Pepin & Laramy Wells
80s action movie icon Arnold Schwarzenegger had already faced off against deadly alien hunters in "Predator", but that same year, he took on another action-packed sci-fi film, trading aliens for a dystopian future and a deadly reality TV show. This '80s flick was a wild departure from the original short story it was based on, but it delivered plenty of action and comedic moments. In this adaptation, convicted criminals known as "runners" must survive against professi…
#115 - "Tango & Cash" (1989) with JB Huffman
An 80s flick synonymous with perhaps the most popular action genre of the eighties: the buddy-cop movie. In the wake of Lethal Weapon, there were many variations of the formula. Perhaps the most testosterone-fuelled was this 1989 cult classic that paired Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell as Los Angeles cops framed by Jack Palance’s evil drug lord. With generous helpings of style, odd-couple quips, and tons of action, the movie was a box office hit. But behind the scenes, it was a mess, wit…
#110 - "Weekend at Bernie's" (1989) with Nicholas Pepin (from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast) & Chad Sheppard
Join Tim Williams and guests Nicholas Pepin and Chad Sheppard on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast as they dive into the 1989 comedy "Weekend at Bernie's." Picture a wild summer weekend where two young employees discover their boss dead at his beach house. Despite the chaos, they must keep up appearances to enjoy their getaway. Tune in for a fun discussion filled with slapstick humor, ridiculous antics, and unforgettable 80s nostalgia.
#109 - "Mr. Mom" (1983) with Ben Carpenter
Join Tim Williams and Ben Carpenter on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast as they discuss "Mr. Mom" from 1983. This comedy, starring Michael Keaton and penned by John Hughes, resonated with many due to its portrayal of men tackling domestic duties amid the economic shifts of the 80s. With its rise alongside HBO and home video rentals, "Mr. Mom" became a staple in many households. Tune in for a nostalgic look back at this iconic film.
BONUS - "The Money Pit" (1986) with Gerry D from "Totally Rad Christmas" Podcast
Join Tim Williams and guest Gerry D from "Totally Rad Christmas" as they discuss the 1986 comedy "The Money Pit" on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast. Starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long, this film portrays a couple's DIY home improvement disasters after buying a bargain mansion. Despite mixed reviews, it remains a beloved part of Hanks' early career. Tune in for a fun look at collapsing stairs, airborne turkeys, and more.
#108 - "InnerSpace" (1987) with Nicholas Pepin (from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast) and Ben Carpenter
Join Tim Williams with guests Ben Carpenter and Nicholas Pepin as they discuss the 1987 sci-fi comedy "Innerspace" on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast. Directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg, this film stars a miniaturized Navy pilot injected into a hypochondriac grocery clerk, leading to a hilarious adventure. Tune in for laughs and nostalgia as they explore this imaginative twist on "Fantastic Voyage."
BONUS - "Ladyhawke" (1985) with Nicholas Pepin (from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast) and Chad Sheppard
Join Tim Williams and guests Nicholas Pepin and Chad Sheppard as they discuss the 1985 medieval fantasy "Ladyhawke" on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast. This film tells the tale of two lovers cursed to transform into a hawk and a wolf, striving to lift the curse with the help of a young thief. Tune in for a magical adventure and nostalgic fun.
#103 - "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" (1988) with Bethany Wells, Chris Adams, and Chad Sheppard
In this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast, Tim Williams along with guest co-hosts Bethany Wells, Chris Adams, and Chad Sheppard, dive into the 1988 comedy hit "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels." This standout remake shines as two contrasting con men, portrayed brilliantly by Steve Martin and Michael Caine, engage in a humorous battle of wits to swindle a wealthy heiress on the French Riviera. With a mix of slapstick and sharp wit, they execute a series of uproarious schemes against…
#102 - "License To Drive" (1988) with Nicholas Pepin from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast
Join us on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast as we rediscover the cult classic "License To Drive" (1988). Experience the uproarious journey of Les Anderson as he navigates teenage romance, failed driving tests, and a wild night of car-centric escapades with his friends. Get ready for laughter, hijinks, and nostalgia as we dive into this beloved tale of teenage rebellion and automotive mayhem.
#101 - "Running Scared" (1986) with Gerry D from "Totally Rad Christmas" & Nicholas Pepin from "Pop Culture Roulette"
In this special replay episode of the 80s Flick Flashback podcast, Tim Williams and guest co-hosts Gerry D from "Totally Rad Christmas" Podcast and Nicholas Pepin from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast revisit the 1986 action-comedy "Running Scared." Directed by Peter Hyams and starring Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal, this buddy cop film may have been overshadowed by other hits of its time, but it remains a solid example of the genre with an entertaining story and…
#98 - "Spies Like Us" (1985) with Laramy Wells from "Moving Panels" Podcast
In "Spies Like Us" (1985), join two inept government employees on a hilarious journey through Cold War espionage. From decoy missions to encounters with KGB agents, this comedy cleverly satirizes spy movie tropes while offering a light-hearted take on Cold War tensions. Join host Tim Williams and guest co-host Laramy Wells for a laugh-out-loud discussion on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast!
#97 - "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" (1989) with Bethany Wells (Abbreviated Replay)
This 80’s flick was meant to be just another chapter in the misadventures of Clark W. Griswold and his family, but it has become one of the most surprisingly popular and most quoted holiday movies of all time. So this Christmas we are returning to Chicago for a special abbreviated version of the episode we recorded in 2021. So dig up your oversized Christmas tree, fill up your Wally World glass mugs with eggnog, and carve the overcooked turkey as Tim Williams and guest co-host, Bethany Wells…
#96 - "Trading Places" (1983) with Tyra Williams
This ’80s flick is more than just a vehicle for laughs; it's a biting satire that skewers societal norms and exposes the fault lines of privilege and inequality. Its significance lies in using humor as a Trojan horse for razor-sharp commentary, causing audiences to laugh and reflect on the absurdity of the disparities between the haves and the have-nots. As we revisit this holiday cult classic, we will celebrate not only the impeccable comedic timing of its top-notch cast but also the f…
#94 - "Adventures in Babysitting" (1987) with Bethany Wells
This 80s flick is a shining example of teenage adventures and unexpected chaos. This lively comedy about growing up invites us to revisit the wild night that forever changed the lives of a suburban babysitter and her diverse group of charges. The clever dialogue, surprising plot twists, and memorable characters make it a timeless favorite for those who grew up in the '80s. It reminds us that sometimes the most unforgettable nights are the unplanned ones, where the ordinary transforms in…
#91 - "Creepshow" (1982) with Laramy Wells from "Moving Panels" Podcast
In 1982, horror aficionados were treated to a ghoulishly delightful cinematic experience with the release of this 80s Flick, a morbid masterpiece directed by George A. Romero and written by the legendary Stephen King. This anthology flick paid loving homage to the golden age of horror comics, delivering a spine-tingling collection of five tales that combined gruesome frights with dark humor. With its unique blend of grotesque imagery, dark wit, and a stellar cast, it quickly earned its place…
#87 - "Ghostbusters II" (1989) with Laramy Wells from "Moving Panels" Podcast
Who you gonna call when paranormal chaos once again descends upon New York City? Thanks to this 80s flick sequel, the answer remains the same—Ghostbusters! Taking place five years after the team's first victory over the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and Gozer, the Ghostbusters have fallen out of business and out of favor with the city they fought so hard to protect. But when a malicious slime starts to cause chaos and empower the evil Vigo the Carpathian, the Ghostbusters are called out of …
#86 - "Lethal Weapon 2" (1989) with Nicholas Pepin from "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast
In 1987, Lethal Weapon took everyone by surprise when it hit theaters. It was like a bomb went off and re-ignited the buddy cop genre with a bang! The perfect mix of an established director, two lead actors with undeniable chemistry, and an up-and-coming screenwriter’s knack for snappy odd-couple banter created a formula that was ripe for a follow-up. So when Warner Bros decided to make a sequel, they went all out. They pumped up the budget, added more comedic moments, and dialed down the da…