Summer Special #24 - Remote Control (1988) [Non-Cannon ~ Episode 72]

We're going obscure again with the true cult classic Remote Control from 1988! In this movie from the writer and director of other beloved cult hits such as Just Before Dawn and Blue Sunshine comes this sort of tribute, parody, and wild take on 1950s alien invasion stories through a 1980s lens. There isn't a whole lot like this one, and neither would it be allowed to exist outside of the era it was made. You would never see anything like Remote Control today.

Of course, the movie isn't perfect, but it has an undeniable charm. It is especially effective for those who lived in the era the film was made. Your mileage may vary, and we go into why in today's episode. Control yourself!

Randy's Score: 2/5

JD's Score: 3/5

Up Next: Space Camp!

Summer Special #23 - Heavyweights (1995) [Non-Cannon ~ Episode 71]

This week we go a bit sideways with a now-obscure Disney movie that was actually the launching pad for a few individuals you might have heard of today. It might be a more well-known picture compared to what we usually cover, but not so much these days.

Heavyweights is a typical camp movie from the time period, only this one is focused around overweight kids being forced to go against their will and having to deal with it. It's not half bad, though it doesn't do a whole lot to stand out from the pack. That said, it is alright for what it is. Check out the full episode to hear our thoughts.

Randy's Score: 3/5

JD's Score: 3/5

Up Next: Remote Control!

Summer Special #22 - The Lost Boys (1987) [Non-Cannon ~ Episode 70]

Here's a movie we've been trying to cover for some time now. From 1987, this cult classic is still the favorite of many Gen Xers today. But does it hold up well?

Surprisingly well, actually. This is a vampire movie, of the type that existed before Anne Rice permanently ruined the monster in pop culture, where the stakes are high and the monster is suitable intimidating. On the other hand you've got an all-star cast of the kind that could only have existed at the time it was made. The Lost Boys is pretty much the full package. It is the quintessential adventure movie of its era.

Is it perfect? Not quite, but that doesn't stop us from talking about this one for a long time. See what we discuss in today's episode!

Randy's Score: 4/5

JD's Score: 4/5

Up Next: Heavyweights

Summer Special #21 - Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead (1991) [Non-Cannon ~ Episode 69]

This week we took a look at a movie neither of us were that familiar with. We wanted to try a film from that time that we simply didn't know much about but would have been in our wheelhouse growing up. So, did it work out? In a way.

Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead is not the type of movie the poster advertises itself as, in more ways than one. Despite having the director of Critters, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, the Mighty Ducks, Mr. Holland's Opus, Rock Star, and the original live action 101 Dalmatians, it really isn't like any of those vastly different movies at all. Unfortunately, this is ultimately to the film's detriment. There is a reason you haven't heard much about this one since its original release, even with all the advantages it should have.

That said, it isn't terrible. We discuss what it's all about in today's new summer episode! Happy 4th of July!

Randy's Score: 3/5

JD's Score: 3/5

Up Next: The Lost Boys!