#135 - "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" (1988) with Nicholas Pepin, Laramy & Bethany Wells

Ever wonder where the magic started for animated characters stepping into the live-action world? While it's practically a genre of its own today, one groundbreaking '80s flick truly pioneered the concept as a full-length feature film. Get ready to dive into the toon-tastic world of "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" from 1988!From the visionary minds of producer Steven Spielberg and director Robert Zemeckis, this Academy Award-winning box office sensation takes us to an alternate 1947 Hollywood where humans and 'Toons' co-exist. Our story follows a jaded human private eye reluctantly tangled in a zany conspiracy, tasked with helping a beloved animated rabbit clear his name after being framed for murder.So, hop on the back of the Red Car, hold on to your disappearing ink, and whatever you do, don’t get dipped in The Dip! Join Nicholas Pepin, Laramy Wells, Bethany Wells, and your host, Tim Williams, as they pull back the curtain on this cinematic masterpiece on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode:Initially, there were to be seven weasels (Greasy, Sleazy, Wheezy, Smartass, Psycho, Stupid, and Slimy) to parody the seven dwarfs.Although the film's title is a question, no question mark appears in the title because this is considered bad luck in the industry.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, BoxOfficeMojohttps://www.cinemablend.com/movies/who-framed-roger-rabbit-behind-the-scenes-facts-about-the-moviehttps://www.mentalfloss.com/article/62910/15-things-you-might-not-know-about-who-framed-roger-rabbitSome sections were composed by ChatGPTWe'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

This '80s flick is one of our generation's defining fantasy films. Set in the harsh, mythic world of the Hyborian Age, the story follows an epic warrior on his quest for vengeance against the sinister Thulsa Doom. This necromancer destroyed his village and left him an orphan. Upon its release, the film garnered mixed reviews—praised for its stunning production design and thrilling action, but criticized for its heavy dose of violence and subpar acting performances. Despite this, it was a box-office hit and found lasting success in home video markets. So grab your steel weapon, prepare for battle, and watch out for snake arrows as Tim Williams and guest co-hosts Gerry D from "Totally Rad Podcast" and Laramy Wells from "Moving Panels Podcast" discuss “Conan the Barbarian” from 1982 on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode:Arnold Schwarzenegger had retired from professional bodybuilding after winning the 1975 Mr. Olympia contest. While training for his role in "Conan the Barbarian," he got back into such good shape that he decided to enter the 1980 Mr. Olympia contest. He won the contest, although there was significant controversy over whether he deserved the victory.The brief scene featuring an older Conan sitting on the throne of Aquilonia was filmed in 1980, before most of the other filming. This footage was initially intended to serve as a trailer, but John Milius decided to use it as the film's opening sequence. Following concerns from the producers, the scene was moved to the end of the film.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, BoxOfficeMojohttps://movieweb.com/facts-about-conan-the-barbarian-you-didnt-know/Some sections were composed by ChatGPTWe'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

In 1989, a groundbreaking film burst onto the scene, revolutionizing the cinematic landscape in unimaginable ways. With an incredible cast and cutting-edge special effects, this film captivated audiences with its deeply relatable yet hilariously flawed characters. Would you believe that it was led by none other than “Weird Al” Yankovic?Directed by Jay Levey and co-written with "Weird Al" himself, this '80s flick tells the story of George Newman, a quirky character whose career seems to crumble at every turn. But when his uncle gifts him a struggling local TV station, George unleashes a torrent of outlandish television shows filled with social satire and zany humor. With the help of his loyal friend, Bob, their whimsical creations attract the ire of a ruthless rival station’s CEO, setting the stage for an epic showdown. So grab yourself a Twinkie Weiner Sandwich, a box of Yappy’s Dog Treats, and spin the Wheel of Fish as Tim Williams and guest co-host Nicholas Pepin from "Pop Culture Roulette" discuss “UHF” from 1989 on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast!There are no additional behind-the-scenes trivia we did not cover in this episode.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojohttps://www.mentalfloss.com/posts/weird-al-yankovic-uhf-movie-factshttps://www.joblo.com/wtf-happened-to-uhf/Some sections were composed or edited by ChatGPTWe'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

In 1978, after Harold Ramis wrapped "Animal House", the director teamed up with pals Brian Doyle-Murray and Douglas Kenney, along with Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Ted Knight, and the one and only, Rodney Dangerfield, to bring similar frathouse shenanigans to the clubhouse. Featuring legendary performances (many of which were completely improvised) plus an equally memorable soundtrack, this 80s flick came barreling into theaters the summer of 1980, and went on to become one of the most cherished comedies of all time. Widely considered to be one of the all-time funniest comedies ever assembled, the film about a young golf caddy (Michael O'Keefe) desperate to win a scholarship and turn his life around has been listed #71 on AFI's 100 Years...100 Laughs and #7 on AFI's Top 10 Sports Films. So grab your golf clubs, watch out for gopher holes, and remember to be the ball as Tim Williams and guest co-hosts, Nicolas Pepin and Chris McMichen discuss “Caddyshack” from 1980 on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode:Cindy Morgan revealed that the oil massage scene with Chevy Chase was entirely improvised. When Lacy exclaims, "You're crazy!" that was Morgan's authentic reaction to Chase dousing her with oil, which was also the case with Chase's reply, "That's what they said about the Son Of Sam.”Writer and producer Douglas Kenney died after the film was released. He fell off a cliff while vacationing in Hawaii. Kenney had experienced deep depression after the film's post-production, as much of the original story had been significantly altered in the editing room, and he was strongly opposed to the final addition of the gopher to the film.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojohttps://www.mentalfloss.com/article/56693/15-things-you-might-not-know-about-caddyshackhttps://screenrant.com/caddyshack-movie-behind-scenes-making-of-trivia/Some sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

This Academy-award-winning 80s Flick is a captivating, emotionally charged drama that beautifully captures the complexities of love, aging, and family. Set in the tranquil, golden hues of a New England lake, the film brings together screen legends Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn in a final, unforgettable collaboration. Fonda portrays Norman Thayer, a witty but grumpy elderly man facing the challenges of growing older, while Hepburn shines as his vibrant and supportive wife, Ethel. When their daughter and her fiancé arrive for a summer visit, the peaceful lake becomes the backdrop for deep reflections and heartwarming moments of reconciliation. So power up the motorboat, grab your fishing poles, and watch out for the rocks in Pergatory Cove as Tim Williams and guest co-hosts, Ben Carpenter and Bethany Wells, discuss “On Golden Pond” from 1981 on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode:Leftover footage of Henry Fonda and Katherine Hepburn driving through the countryside of New Hampshire, as shown in the opening credits, was incorporated for the beginning of the 1982-1990 CBS sitcom "Newhart".Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojohttps://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/educational-magazines/golden-pondhttps://www.afi.com/news/afi-movie-club-on-golden-pond/Some sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

In the '80s and '90s, emotional sports dramas hit their peak with films like The Natural, Field of Dreams, and Rudy. One standout from the '80s is Hoosiers (1986), which follows Norman Dale, a disgraced middle-aged coach given a second chance at redemption in the small town of Hickory, Indiana. Set in 1951, the film explores how the tight-knit community and its strong opinions about basketball strategy shape Dale's journey. Join Tim Williams and guest co-hosts JB Huffman & Chris McMichen, as they lace up their Chuck Taylors and dive into Hoosiers on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode:The filmmakers had trouble filling Hinkle Fieldhouse with extras for the final game and needed to move people around when shooting different angles. Extras were given 1950s hairstyles, and their clothing was checked for anachronisms.The actor who played Ollie once left the set to watch his high school basketball team play. At the time, he was a senior on the team and was feeling homesick, so he decided to attend the game. The crew had to contact his mother to persuade him to return to the set.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojohttps://www.esquire.com/entertainment/movies/a34673344/hoosiers-anniversary-essay-story-making-of-analysis/https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/88389/10-winning-facts-about-hoosiersSome sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support!https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

This 80s classic solidified Eddie Murphy as a superstar. Beverly Hills Cop was the top-grossing film of 1984 and earned an Oscar nomination for its screenplay. What became one of AFI's Top 100 comedies almost turned into a very different film with Sylvester Stallone, more action, and less humor. Directed by Martin Brest, the film introduced Axel Foley, a street-smart Detroit cop who investigates a murder in Beverly Hills. With its perfect mix of humor, action, and Murphy’s charm, the film reshaped the action-comedy genre. Join Tim Williams and returning guest co-host, Chris McMichen, as they dive into Beverly Hills Cop on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast.Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode: Throughout the production, the screenplay underwent constant revisions, which sometimes resulted in actors receiving their lines just before they were expected to deliver them. This posed a challenge for actor Stephen Elliott, who was caught holding a rolled-up script while portraying Police Chief Hubbard. Fortunately, the director believed this detail enhanced his performance, so Elliott is seen holding those script pages in the film. The Beverly Hills Police Department uses a "satellite tracking system" to locate Foley and Rosewood. Although this system was fictional when the story was created, it later inspired the development of modern satellite technology, including the Global Positioning System (GPS). The mansion used in the final shootout between Foley and Maitland is the same mansion seen in the final shootout between Matrix and Arius in "Commando" (1985). Coincidentally, both Foley and Matrix were trying to rescue somebody named Jenny in that mansion in their respective films.Sources:Wikipedia, IMDB, https://www.cracked.com/article_44671_40-trivia-tidbits-about-beverly-hills-cop-on-its-40th-anniversary.htmlhttps://www.mentalfloss.com/article/60484/15-things-you-may-not-have-known-about-beverly-hills-copSome sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support! https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

In 1989, Cameron Crowe’s Say Anything became an iconic 80s romance that captured the awkwardness and sweetness of young love. The story follows Lloyd Dobler, a charming high school grad unsure of his future but knows he wants Diane Court, the smart yet emotionally distant valedictorian. This isn’t your typical romance—Lloyd isn’t the usual leading man, and Diane isn’t the stereotypical love interest. Instead, the film subverts expectations to deliver a heartfelt, unconventional love story that still resonates today. Join Tim Williams and guest co-host Bethany Wells as they dive into this classic on the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast!Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode: Lloyd and Diane's school appears to be based on The Lakeside School, a very prestigious private school in Seattle. But in the film, the school is called Lakewood and has a rooster, not a lion, as its mascot. The dojo featured in this movie was also used in "The Karate Kid" (1984). Fox gave the green light for producers to adapt "Say Anything" into a single-camera TV sitcom that would have taken place 10 years after the movie's ending. But the show's creators never bothered to ask original writer/director Cameron Crowe if he was interested. Once Crowe heard about the project, he was dismayed and expressed on Twitter that he had no involvement "except in trying to stop it." John Cusack also cried foul about the project; the backlash from the fans was too much to overcome, so the project was canceled.Sources: Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojohttps://www.pajiba.com/seriously_random_lists/mindhole-blowers-25-facts-about-say-anything-that-are-neither-bought-sold-nor-processed.phphttps://www.mentalfloss.com/article/73152/14-surprising-facts-about-say-anythinghttps://awardswatch.com/say-anything-at-35-how-a-boy-a-boombox-and-a-dream-turned-into-a-timeless-classic-retrospective/https://www.slashfilm.com/1497085/only-major-actors-still-alive-say-anything/Some sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support! https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

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 absurd cross-country quest to recover his stolen bike, exploring its vivid visuals, eccentric characters, and lasting influence on comedy, fashion, and filmmaking. Grab your light grey suit and red bow tie, and tune in for a nostalgic trip back to this offbeat classic! Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode: The "Mr. T" cereal eaten by Pee-Wee actually existed. It was not something made up for the film. After seeing the finished product, the studio wasn’t so sure it wanted to put much more money behind Pee-wee's Big Adventure. Finding it all a bit bizarre, they decided to roll the film out slowly and on a regional basis. Warner cranked up the publicity machine When it proved popular with even a limited audience. By the time all was said and done, Pee-wee had earned nearly $41 million at the box office. Sources: Wikipedia, IMDB, Box Office Mojo https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/66919/15-fun-facts-about-pee-wees-big-adventure Some sections were composed or edited by ChatGPT   We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support! https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback

In the early ’70s, films like The Omega Man, Soylent Green, and THX-1138 painted a bleak future of chaos and government control. By 1981, the tone had shifted, with films like Raiders of the Lost Ark and Clash of the Titans offering escapism and classic good vs. evil battles. But then came this 80s flick, set in a dystopian 1997 where Manhattan is a prison island. The hero, a morally gray anti-hero on a mission to rescue the President, must navigate a world full of shady characters and alliances. Join Tim Williams and guest co-host, Nicholas Pepin from the "Pop Culture Roulette" Podcast, to dive into Escape from New York on this episode of the 80s Flick Flashback Podcast. Here are some additional behind-the-scenes trivia we were unable to cover in this episode: The idea of putting a wig on at one point in the film was improvised by Donald Pleasance. The shot of Maggie's corpse under the Duke's car was added after principal photography was done as  John Carpenter felt the audience wouldn't get that the impact had killed her. Carpenter and Adrienne Barbeau filmed the shot in their garage with her under their own car. Sources: Wikipedia, IMDB https://www.the-numbers.com/box-office-chart/weekend/1981/07/10 https://www.gq.com/story/escape-from-new-york-40-kurt-russell-john-carpenter-grim-future Some sections were composed by ChatGPT   We'd love to hear your thoughts on our podcast! You can share your feedback with us via email or social media. Your opinions are incredibly valuable to us, and we'd be so grateful to know what you enjoyed about our show. If we missed anything or if you have any suggestions for 80s movies, we'd love to hear them too! If you're feeling extra supportive, you can even become a subscription member through "Buy Me A Coffee". For more details and other fun extensions of our podcast, check out this link. Thank you for your support! https://linktr.ee/80sFlickFlashback