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Spirited hard work continues to pay off even 20 years after SCHOOL OF ROCK’s conception. The heart of rock ‘n roll beats strong with this success story spearheaded by a comedy thundercat, an enigmatic director, an ever-evolving writer & a band of incredibly talented kiddos all sharing the stage with equal importance. //***Discussions include***\\ Brief backgrounds on writer/co-star, Mike White, his friendship with Jack Black & director Richard Linklater’s involvement; using conventional fantasy, progressiveness, real-life elements & backstory, plus creating a kids movie palatable to adults; addressing the documentary, Rock School (2005); creating the film’s musical landscape & inspirations; in-depth cast discussion, strength of characters, favorite scenes & longevity of the film. Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Mike White, Sarah Silverman & a band of incredibly awesome kids star in SCHOOL OF ROCK (2003) /// Directed by Richard Linklater. //***Picks of the Week***\\     •    Lindsay’s Pick: CHUCK & BUCK (2000). Mike White, Chris Weitz, Lupe Ontiveros /// Directed by Mike White.     •    Justin’s Pick: WAKING LIFE (2001). Wiley Wiggins, Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy // Directed by Richard Linklater. //***MurrayMoment***\\ Spotlighting a particularly strong stage performance of Bill’s in CRADLE WILL ROCK (1999), co-starring Joan Cusack & Jack Black. //***Final Thoughts on SCHOOL OF ROCK***\\ Next Episode: Our 5 Year Anniversary! NATIONAL LAMPOON’S VACATION (1983)     •    Please rate, review & subscribe.     •    Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.     •    Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // May 23rd, 2023.

First-time filmmakers rarely explode on the scene like brothers Albert & Allen Hughes. Amid the racial tensions & frustrations of early 1990's Los Angeles, MENACE II SOCIETY tapped into the gritty truth of the time. A powerful & empathetic look into a community misrepresented by mainstream media, this film was not only important in its heyday, but its unflinching realness hits even harder 30 years later. //***Discussions include***\\ A brief history of the Hughes Brothers before MENACE; writing development, research, channeling a perspective & selling the script; reality vs. media representation; tonality, themes, underlying messages & film influences; shooting on location, visual style, depiction of violence, emotional impact & heightened realism; toxic masculinity & female perspective; use of narration & humor; cast, audition stories & character dynamics; post-production, release, reception & retrospective observations. Tyrin Turner, Larenz Tate, Jada Pinkett, MC Eiht & Vonte Sweet star in MENACE II SOCIETY (1993) /// Directed by The Hughes Brothers. //***Picks of the Week***\\     •    Lindsay’s Pick: JASON’S LYRIC (1994). Allen Payne, Jada Pinkett, Bokeem Woodbine, Lisa Nicole Carson /// Directed by Doug McHenry.     •    Justin’s Pick: STRAIGHT OUT OF BROOKLYN (1991). Lawrence Gilliard, Jr., George T. Odom, Ann D. Sanders, Barbara Sanon /// THE INKWELL (1994). Larenz Tate, Joe Morton, Suzzanne Douglas, Glynn Turman // Both films directed by Matty Rich.      //***MurrayMoment***\\ At the suggestion of Chevy Chase, Billy & brother Brian hit up Rodney Dangerfield for marijuana during the filming of CADDYSHACK. //***Final Thoughts on MENACE II SOCIETY***\\ Next Episode: SCHOOL OF ROCK (2003).     •    Please rate, review & subscribe.     •    Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube.     •    Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // April 25th, 2023    

A man wrongfully accused of viciously murdering his wife is a story that’s been around for ages. And in the 30 years since its release, THE FUGITIVE remains one of the most masterfully told thrillers in which action sequences are just as enthralling as the story itself. Time to dive behind the making of this expertly executed film wherein spontaneity, reliance on creativity & collaboration were key to composing this unforgettable classic. //***Discussions include***\\ Origin behind & evolution of THE FUGITIVE story; script development, writing scenes & dialogue on the fly; style & conditions of the production with behind the scenes stories; casting heavyweights, supporting cast & usage of Chicago; strategic special effects engineering, bold editing choices, sound & score; omitted storylines, release, reception & longevity of the film.    Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward & Joe Pantoliano star in THE FUGITIVE (1993) /// Directed by Andrew Davis. //***Picks of the Week***\\     •    Lindsay’s Pick: THE FINAL TERROR (1983). Adrian Zmed, Joe Pantoliano, Daryl Hannah, Lewis Smith /// Directed by Andrew Davis.     •    Justin’s Pick: BLACK MOON RISING (1986). Tommy Lee Jones, Linda Hamilton, Lee Ving, Bubba Smith /// Directed by Harley Cokeliss. //***MurrayMoment***\\ The origins of how Harrison Ford influenced Bill’s LOST IN TRANSLATION character, Bob Harris. //***Final Thoughts on THE FUGITIVE***\\ Next Episode: MENACE II SOCIETY (1993).     •    Please rate, review & subscribe.     •    Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube.     •    Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // March 28th, 2023.

Lies… Manipulation… Gaslighting… OBSESSED. Obsession-driven psychodramas are a special sect of early ‘90s cinema. It also happens to be one of our favorite thriller sub-genres. But what makes them so special? What sets them apart & what do they share in common? We’ve honed in & created our own rules for the genre — what we love, the most memorable moments & how do these movies hold up 30+ years later? Let the thrills & chills begin! 
//***Films Included***\\ The Crush (1993), Fear (1996), The Hand that Rocks the Cradle (1992), Pacific Heights (1990), Poison Ivy (1992), Single White Female (1992), The Temp (1993), Unlawful Entry (1992).   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Returning in Episode 103.   //***MurrayMoment***\\ Returning in Episode 103.   //***Final Thoughts on ***\\ Episode wrap-up & a few outlier films which narrowly missed inclusion in this episode. Next Episode:
 March 28: MENACE II SOCIETY (1993). Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // February 28, 2023. xxx

Though this is the 30th Anniversary of GROUNDHOG DAY, it continues to feel timeless & evolve in meaning as it ages. This high concept film is triple threat — a holiday film, a fantasy comedy & an unassuming emotional touchstone for many audiences. As profoundly involved as this story may be, this Bill Murray vehicle has no shortage of complexities behind the scenes as well. 
//***Discussions include***\\ Origin & inspiration, transforming story structure, writing process, continuous script changes & on the fly decisions; tonal shift struggles, darker philosophical elements mixing with comedy, existential dread, death, immortality & spirituality; omitted scenes, storylines & deliberate absence of a key plot point; skirting around studio demands; importance of location & weather difficulties impacting production; conflicts between Ramis & Murray; cast chemistry & breakdown; release, reception & longevity of the film. Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott & Stephen Tobolowsky star in GROUNDHOG DAY (1993) /// Directed by Harold Ramis.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: BIRD ON A WIRE (1990). Goldie Hawn, Mel Gibson, David Carradine, Bill Duke, Stephen Tobolowsky /// Directed by John Badham. Justin’s Pick: BEDAZZLED (2000). Brendan Fraser, Elizabeth Hurley, Frances O’Connor, Orlando Jones /// Directed by Harold Ramis.     //***MurrayMoment***\\ This section will return in Episode 103. //***Final Thoughts on GROUNDHOG DAY***\\ Next Episode:
 THE OBSESSION FROM HELL, A Special Episode. Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // January 31st, 2023. =>=>=>

Kicking off our 100th Episode with a Controversial Christmas Classic — DIE HARD (1988)! For a future-franchised film jam-packed with exciting explosions, it’s hard to believe this project was a gamble before it ever went into production. From its humble beginning to creating an iconic action hero, the formation of DIE HARD is nothing short of a surprise for everyone involved. 
//Discussions include***\\ State of late ‘80s action films; DIE HARD’s early novelization, lengthy writing process & tonality shift; studio demands, production challenges, director’s influence & balancing action with comedy; casting stories, main & supporting cast breakdown/interplay; cinematography, stunts, special effects & sound/music; release, reception, sequels & the Is this a Christmas movie debate. Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia & Reginald VelJohnson star in DIE HARD (1988). Directed by John McTiernan.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: PRESUMED INNOCENT (1990). Harrison Ford, Bonnie Bedelia, Greta Scacchi, Raul Julia, Brian Dennehy. /// Director by: Alan J.Pakula. Justin’s Pick: RICOCHET (1991). Denzel Washington, John Lithgow, Ice-T, Lindsay Wagner, Kevin Pollack. /// Directed by Russell Mulcahy. . //***MurrayMoment***\\ Bill learns a secret Bruce Willis had been holding on to for over 30 years   //***Final Thoughts on A FEW GOOD MEN***\\ Next Episode:
 GROUNDHOG DAY, January 31st, 2023 Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // December 20th, 2022.  

Even 30 years after its release, A FEW GOOD MEN tops lists for the most riveting courtroom dramas. Using true events, a coveted director & soon-to-be celebrated writer, the film bleeds talent from all angles & integrity from end to end. All talents behind this film had a clear, unified vision — make a searing, ethically complex drama that would stand the test of time. 
//***Discussions include***\\ True events behind the film (pre & post release); writer Aaron Sorkin’s humble beginning, story evolution & adapting the stage play to screen; Rob Reiner’s influence & creating action within a narrative; in-depth character & cast discussion, behind the scenes stories, release & reception. Tom Cruise, Demi Moore, Jack Nicholson, Kevin Pollack star in A FEW GOOD MEN (1992). Directed by Rob Reiner.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: THE LAST DETAIL (1973). Jack Nicholson, Otis Young, Randy Quaid. /// Director: Hal Ashby. Justin’s Pick:THE LAST SAMURAI (2003). Tom Cruise, Ken Watanabe, Koyuki Kato, Tony Goldwyn. /// Directed by Edward Zwick. . //***MurrayMoment***\\ Lindsay sets the record straight on Bill’s SNL character, Nick the Lounge Singer, Rob Reiner’s involvement & the *true* inspirations behind the popular recurring sketch. //***Final Thoughts on A FEW GOOD MEN***\\ Next Episode:
 Our 100th Episode: DIE HARD (1988) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // November 22nd, 2022. >

Combining unrelenting imagination with in-home paranormal activity & child abduction turned into a guaranteed masterpiece with POLTERGEIST (1982). Filmmakers Tobe Hooper & Steven Spielberg proved the horror genre could have emotional depth while remaining absolutely terrifying & creative. And on its 40th Anniversary year, POLTERGEIST still reigns supreme as one of the most memorable ghost stories ever told. 
//***Discussions include***\\ The lengthy development/writing process of the film & the state of horror in 1982; Hooper & Spielberg’s careers at the time, how they came to collaborate & controversy behind their partnership; vibe vs. theme, elevated/unusual aspects of the story & fundamental fears; cast & character dissections; the film’s score, framing style & special effects; memorable scenes, the double ending, sequels, recognition & longevity, plus our undying appreciation of JoBeth Williams. JoBeth Williams, Craig T. Nelson, Heather O’Rourke, Beatrice Straight & Zelda Rubinstein star in POLTERGEIST (1982). Directed by Tobe Hooper.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: SALEM’S LOT (1979). David Soul, James Mason, Bonnie Bedelia, Lance Kerwin, Geoffrey Lewis. /// Director: Tobe Hooper. Justin’s Pick: WHITE NOISE (2005). Michael Keaton, Deborah Kara Unger, Chandra West, Ian McNeice. /// Directed by Geoffrey Sax . //***MurrayMoment***\\ We revisit Billy’s unscripted insanity which descended upon the debut episode of Late Night with David Letterman in 1982. //***Final Thoughts on POLTERGEIST***\\ Next Episode:
 A FEW GOOD MEN (1992) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // October 25th, 2022. …

We’re kicking off our fifth Halloween by celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Gore Verbinski’s THE RING. Going for more than jump scares, this American film ushered in the blockbuster trend of remaking a pre-existing film. Not only did it reignite the idea of urban legends & invigorate the careers of those involved, THE RING also proved a remake could still fresh, modern & an absolute terrifying delight. 
//***Discussions include***\\ The origin story, urban legend & folklore behind the film; multiple reinventions of the story, dawn of the remake boom & why the film stands out; preying upon instinctual fears of the audience, themes & atmosphere; cast highlights & uniqueness of characters; special effects, creep factor, visual & sound importance; the film’s climax, reception, longevity, sequels, plus Justin & Lindsay share some local folklore. Naomi Watts, Daveigh Chase, David Dorfman, Martin Henderson & Brian Cox star in THE RING (2002). Directed by Gore Verbinski. //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: THE SKELETON KEY (2005). Kate Hudson, Gena Rowlands, John Hurt, Peter Sarsgaard. /// Director: Iain Softley. Justin’s Pick: 1408 (2007). John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Mary McCormack, Tony Shalhoub. /// Directed by Mikael Håfström. //***MurrayMoment***\\ Naomi Watts’ initial nervousness working with Bill in ST. VINCENT (2014). //***Final Thoughts on THE RING***\\ Next Episode:
 40th Anniversary of POLTERGEIST (1982) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // October 4th, 2022.

In 1992, Quentin Tarantino’s life would drastically change as soon as his first feature film, RESERVOIR DOGS, would debut at Sundance. Though among many stellar films at the festival that year, it would be RESERVOIR DOGS which emerged as a transcendent feat in filmmaking. Time to go back in time to remember its importance in independent filmmaking. //***Discussions include***\\ How Tarantino rose to stardom based on talent, confidence & luck; the script finding its way into fortunate hands; freshening up a classic crime movie style, use of non-linear storytelling & challenging popular movie trends; casting stories & breaking down the lead roles; eccentricities about the film, music usage, realistic violence & Tarantino’s hot take observations; use of colorful characters & difficult dialog; positive & negative reactions at Sundance, plus how has this film held up 30 years later. Tim Roth, Harvey Keitel, Steve Buscemi star in RESERVOIR DOGS (1992). Directed by Quentin Tarantino. //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: FOUR ROOMS (1995). Tim Roth & so many more. /// Directors: Quentin Tarantino, Allison Anders, Robert Rodriguez, Alexandre Rockwell. Justin’s Pick: COPLAND (1997). Sylvester Stallone, Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel. /// Directed by James Mangold.   //***MurrayMoment***\\ Bill & Steve Buscemi ring in Bob Dylan’s 77th birthday & how this connects back to RESERVOIR DOGS. //***Final Thoughts on the film; PLUS! We rank our favorite Tarantino films in order!***\\ Next Episode: THE RING (2002) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // September 6th, 2022.    

Creating a successful sequel which stands the test of time & elevates a franchise isn’t an easy feat. But LETHAL WEAPON 2 not only proved audiences wanted more from best buddies, Sgts. Murtaugh & Riggs, but that a sequel could be just as vibrant, alive & — in some ways — superior to the original film. //***Discussions include***\\ The evolution of creating a sequel, tonal variations in the script, challenges & major changes; blending action & darkness with evolved humor, friendship & family all woven into a cop movie; relevant messages, themes & atypical aspects of an action/thriller; breaking down the main & supporting cast; the music, thoughts on the Lethal Weapon sequels/franchise & the sequels of 1989. Mel Gibson, Danny Glover, Joe Pesci & Patsy Kensit star in LETHAL WEAPON 2 (1989) // Directed by Richard Donner. //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: BELOVED (1998). Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Kimberly Elise, Thandiwe Newton /// Directed by Jonathan Demme. Justin’s Pick: SWITCHBACK (1997). Dennis Quaid, Danny Glover, Jared Leto, Ted Levine /// Directed by Jeb Stuart.   //***MurrayMoment***\\ Bill getting involved with Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival. //***Final Thoughts on LETHAL WEAPON 2.***\\ Next Episode: RESERVOIR DOGS (1992) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // August 9th, 2022.  

After becoming the biggest buzzworthy phenomenon of mid-‘90s indie film, the bar was set extremely high for Quentin Tarantino’s third film, JACKIE BROWN. Often considered one of his most mature films, JACKIE BROWN tied together a classic style with a fresh voice, while also paying homage to a cinema icon. Everything about this films just gets better with age. //***Discussions include***\\ Where JACKIE BROWN fits into Tarantino’s career; adapting the novel into a screenplay & main differences between the two; Pam Grier’s influence on the script & impact of the Blaxploitation genre; use of visual storytelling, themes, tone, plus how violence & tension interact with humor; breakdowns of & dynamics between characters, casting stories; the inspired soundtrack; reception, response & recognition, plus some of our most memorable moments. Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster, Bridget Fonda, Michael Keaton & Robert De Niro star in JACKIE BROWN (1997). Directed by Quentin Tarantino. //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: COFFY (1973). Pam Grier, Robert DoQui, Booker Bradshaw. /// Directed by Jack Hill. Justin’s Pick: ABOVE THE LAW (1988). Steven Seagal, Pam Grier, Sharon Stone. /// Directed by Andrew Davis. //***MurrayMoment***\\ Going behind the scenes of Billy & Robert De Niro swapping roles & tradin’ fists for the film, MAD DOG AND GLORY (1993). //***Final Thoughts on JACKIE BROWN.***\\ Next Episode: LETHAL WEAPON 2 (1989) Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com Be Kind and Rewatch // July 12th, 2022.

We’re back! And with an epic sequel which rivals its predecessor — James Cameron’s ALIENS. Though considered one of the best sequels of all-time, the road to fruition for this marvelously monstrous tour de force was a battle from start to finish. Stop your grinnin’ & drop you linen because this backstory has as many bumps in the road as the film itself!   //***Discussions include***\\ Why an ALIEN sequel took so long, James Cameron’s methodical scriptwriting & becoming the director for ALIENS; struggle with studio over the film’s star & producer, Sigourney Weaver & Gale Anne Hurd, budgetary constraints; thematic elements, overall vibe, visual concepts & differences from the original film; using a pre-selected British production crew, difficulties, disagreements & disrespect; creating a world with matte paintings, miniatures, mechanical, visual & in-camera special effects; ensemble cast breakdown, training & futuristic weapons; the nightmarish film score situation; release of the film, recognition & extended cut. Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen & Paul Reiser star in ALIENS (1986). Directed by James Cameron.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: DEATH AND THE MAIDEN (1994). Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley, Stuart Wilson /// Directed by Roman Polanski. Justin’s Pick: RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II (1985). Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna, Charles Napier, Steve Berkoff /// Directed by George P. Cosmatos. //***MurrayMoment***\\ Behind the scenes of Sigourney Weaver’s final day of shooting on GHOSTBUSTERS II & Bill’s playful razzing of his beloved co-star. //***Final Thoughts on ALIENS, plus ALIEN 3 (extended cut), ALIEN: RESURRECTION & further lineage discussion.***\\ Next Episode: JACKIE BROWN (1997)   Please rate, review & subscribe. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. Be Kind and Rewatch // June 14th, 2022

It’s the 4-Year Anniversary of Don’t Push Pause!   THE BREAKFAST CLUB is one of the most well-known American films from the 1980s. It roped audiences in with sarcastic, yet endearing humor, then captivated us with its sincere depiction of cutting teenage truths. It became an iconic pinnacle of achievement for all those involved in its creation, but continuing to have mass appeal makes THE BREAKFAST CLUB a legendary film.   //***Discussions include***\\ Pre-Breakfast Club career history of John Hughes; inspiration behind, writing evolution & revisions of the script; tonal shifts, use of dialogue & conflict; casting & chemistry, rehearsal stories & actors influencing the script; set construction, the film’s soundtrack & use of music, problematic elements, release/reception & why this movie is still effective. Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, Anthony Michael Hall & Judd Nelson are THE BREAKFAST CLUB (1985). Directed by John Hughes.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: HIGH ART (1998). Ally Sheedy, Radha Mitchell & Patricia Clarkson /// Directed by Lisa Cholodenko. Justin’s Pick: JUDGMENT NIGHT(1993). Emilio Estevez, Cuba Gooding Jr., Denis Leary, Jeremy Piven & Stephen Dorff /// Directed by Stephen Hopkins.   //***MurrayMoment***\\ Bill visits a Kansas high school for the Wall of Fame induction ceremony of influential comedy madman, Del Close. //***Final Thoughts on THE BREAKFAST CLUB.***\\ Next Episode: ALIENS (1986)     **Visit Our Archive for Four Years of Diving Deep Into the Best Movies Around!** //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube.  www.dontpushpausepodcast.com  dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com  //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders.  Be Kind and Rewatch // May 3rd, 2022

Ivan Reitman was an illustrious filmmaker whose creative ingenuity & lifelong desire for audiences to laugh was born from an unimaginable beginning. With more than 50 years of directing & producing, Reitman turned comedians into movie stars, reinvented careers & subgenres of comedy & sci-fi, while forging longstanding friendships throughout the business. Focusing on themes of friendship, family, perseverance & the fantastic, from toga parties to marshmallow men, Reitman never stopped entertaining. His recent passing pierced the hearts of so many collaborators & fans. After all the laughs he brought to the world, we wanted to celebrate the unrelenting dedication & lasting cultural footprint Ivan Reitman left behind. ***Picks of the Week & the MurrayMoment will return next episode.*** Next Episode: Our Four Year Anniversary! THE BREAKFAST CLUB (1985) 
 //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube.  www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. Be Kind and Rewatch // April 12, 2022

Throughout the last 30 years, Adam Sandler has remained current while evolving as an entertainer, yet staying true to his comedy roots. Cranking out hit after hit, join us on this ride through Sandler’s career, making a pit stop at a giant pivotal moment in time with 1998’s THE WEDDING SINGER.   //***Discussions include***\\ —Sandler’s break into comedy, acting & how college set the stage for his future career; early acting jobs & forming a creative pool of friends, partners; Saturday Night Live & breaking into movies. —THE WEDDING SINGER: The timely significance & magic of the Sandler/Barrymore pairing; concept, writing process, balancing heartache & humor; broadening Sandler’s comedy & introduction of a female voice in his films; favorites in the cast, music & reception. —Furthering Sandler’s comedy evolution, while expanding outside the genre; consistency of multiple recurring themes in his films; co-writing, co-producing & working with same group of directors; critical reactions to his films, as well as our own thoughts. Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Christine Taylor & Allen Covert star in THE WEDDING SINGER (1998). Directed by Frank Coraci.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: FUNNY PEOPLE (2009). Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, Leslie Mann /// Directed by Judd Apatow. Justin’s Pick: JUST GO WITH IT (2011). Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Nick Swardson /// Directed by Dennis Dugan.   //***MurrayMoment***\\ The formation of the semi-experimental, classical music supergroup, Bill Murray, Jan Vogler & Friends, plus how their album, New Worlds, came together. //***Final Thoughts: Our Top 5 Favorite Sandler Films .***\\     **Next Episode: TRIBUTE TO IVAN REITMAN.**   //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. Be Kind and Rewatch // March 22, 2022 

Celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, THE GODFATHER is largely considered one of the most influential & important films to date. While it catapulted careers, it also forever changed American cinema & the modern organized-crime film. But the road to fruition was not without constant roadblocks, only adding to what makes this film nothing short of iconic.   //***Discussions include***\\ State of the Hollywood studio system & mafia movies pre-GODFATHER; writer Mario Puzo’s involvement & how Francis Ford Coppola came aboard & adapted the best-selling novel into a screenplay; influences & truth behind the film, Italian-American representation & evolving complications with real-life mafia interference; Coppola’s repeated clashes & compromises with Paramount over the film’s vision, crew disrespect; main character breakdowns, surprising casting stories & struggles; main theme & musical composition; violence in the film, cinematography & editing challenges; critical & audience reception, plus our feelings on the Sicily scenes & the subsequent sequels.   Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall & Diane Keaton star in THE GODFATHER (1972). Directed by Francis Ford Coppola.   //***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: PEGGY SUE GOT MARRIED (1986). Kathleen Turner, Nicholas Cage /// Directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Justin’s Pick: THIEF (1981). James Caan, Tuesday Weld, Robert Prosky, Willie Nelson /// Directed by Michael Mann.     //***MurrayMoment***\\ Sofia Coppola’s exhaustive process in finally landing Billy to star in LOST IN TRANSLATION (2003).   //***Final Thoughts on THE GODFATHER.***\\     Next Episode: ADAM SANDLER SPECIAL / THE WEDDING SINGER (1998)! ____________________________ //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube.   www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com   //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. Be Kind and Rewatch // March 01, 2022 

For being based on a true story, GIRL, INTERRUPTED’s highly-praised & harrowing ensemble cast had to lead with sincerity to leave an enduring impact. Just like the memoir on which it was based, this film continues to affect those looking for authentic connection, while also being well-deserving of rediscovery.     //***Discussions include***\\ The challenging transition from memoir to screenplay, Winona Ryder’s initial involvement & writer/director James Mangold’s fable-style adaptation of the story; point of view, exploration of themes & dedication to time period; cinematography, art direction, unique music choices, use of the montage, flashbacks, location & narration; the outstanding ensemble cast; memorable moments, critical response & lasting impressions.   Winona Ryder, Angelina Jolie, Whoopi Goldberg & so many others star in GIRL, INTERRUPTED (1999). Directed by James Mangold. 
//***Picks of the Week***\\ Lindsay’s Pick: MERMAIDS (1990). Cher, Winona Ryder, Christina Ricci. /// Directed by Richard Benjamin. Justin’s Pick: IDENTITY (2003). John Cusack, Ray Liotta, Amanda Peet, Clea DuVall. /// Directed by James Mangold.   
//***MurrayMoment***\\ The summer when Billy & Hunter Thompson’s personalities merged & created hell for Saturday Night Live. //***Final Thoughts on GIRL, INTERRUPTED.***\\   Next Episode: THE GODFATHER (1972) //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. www.dontpushpausepodcast.com dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders. Be Kind and Rewatch // February 08, 2022

It’s hard to believe a voyeuristic tale about mortality became the biggest blockbuster of 1990. Although GHOST embodied the essence of human connection, it was not the easiest to initially sell. Nevertheless, the film went on to inspire real world conversations about life & death, solidifying  its place in pop culture history & proving to be a love that would last forever. //***Discussions include***\\ Studio reluctance & unimaginable director choice; story inspiration, script alterations & themes behind this multi-genre blender; deconstructing the film’s most famous scene; casting stories of Swayze & Goldberg, cast chemistry, main character significance & revisions; the magical minority trope; the film’s score & signature song, special effects, favorite scenes, resulting success & unexpected style phenomenon. Patrick Swayze, Whoopi Goldberg, Demi Moore & Tony Goldwyn star in GHOST (1990). Directed by Jerry Zucker. //***Picks of the Week***\\ •    Lindsay’s Pick: THE YEAR OF LIVING DANGEROUSLY (1982). Mel Gibson, Sigourney Weaver, Linda Hunt. /// Directed by Peter Weir. •    Justin’s Pick: DEADLY FRIEND (1986). Matthew Labyorteaux, Kristy Swanson, Michael Sharrett. /// Directed by Wes Craven. //***MurrayMoment***\\ The Patrick Swayze moment which has had Billy prank calling two of his dearest friends for over 30 years. //***Final Thoughts on GHOST.***\\ —Next Episode: GIRL, INTERRUPTED (1999)!— //Please rate, review & subscribe. //Complete Episode Archive, Videos & Store: www.dontpushpausepodcast.com //Follow & Subscribe on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. //Questions? Comments? Email us: dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber // Music: Matt Pace // Announcer: Mary Timmel // Logo: Beau Shoulders Be Kind and Rewatch // January 18, 2022

For a film about imprisonment, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION is an unassuming & bold entry as one of the most popular films of all-time. With inspiration in the face of adversity as an undercurrent, the film speaks in universal themes, emotionally effective & profound in its storytelling. Hope may be a dangerous thing, but for how SHAWSHANK came to fruition & the enduringly powerful impact, this authentic tale remains an timeless touchstone for all audiences. //**Discussions include**// Frank Darabont’s humble rise within the film industry & connection to SHAWSHANK writer, Stephen King; differences between the screenplay adaptation & novella; Castle Rock involvement, location & production design; overall tone, themes, commentary, use of narration & changes to the film’s climax; casting, behind the scenes stories & ensemble character development; reception & how the film grew in popularity despite a disappointing box office return Tim Robbins & Morgan Freeman star in THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994). Directed by Frank Darabont. //**Picks of the Week**// • Lindsay’s Pick: THE PLAYER (1992). Tim Robbins, Greta Scacchi, Whoopi Goldberg. /// Directed by Robert Altman. • Justin’s Pick: LEAN ON ME (1989). Morgan Freeman, Beverly Todd, Robert Guillaume. /// Directed by John G. Avidsen. //**MurrayMoment**// How Billy sneakily exploited downtime on the set of Tim Robbins’ film, CRADLE WILL ROCK (1999).   //**Final Thoughts on THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION.**// —Coming in 2022:   G H O S T  (1990)!—     //Please Subscribe, Rate & Review on any platform. Find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter & YouTube. //Complete Episode Archive, Videos & Store: www.dontpushpausepodcast.com //Questions? Comments? Email us: dontpushpausepodcast@gmail.com //Hosts: Justin Johnson & Lindsay Reber //Music: Matt Pace //Announcer: Mary Timmel //Logo: Beau Shoulders     Be Kind and Rewatch! // December 7, 2021