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We’re closing out Dolly December with Ms. Parton’s debut film!Not many films can hold social relevance for 40 years. But in 1980, NINE TO FIVE was not only a big boost to a movement, it also gave a voice to those oppressed in the workforce. A labor of love & sneakily subversive, this influential film was groundbreaking at the time & continues to inspire today. ▶️Synopsis: Three female co-workers unite over unequal treatment in the workplace, especially at the hands of their tyrannical & sexist male boss. When one of the women thinks she poisoned him, the trio form a plan to improve their working conditions & turn the tables on their corrupt boss. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Real-life inspiration, origin of the film & Jane Fonda spearheading the project; collaborative writing, story evolution, type of comedy, fantasy sequences; uniquely weaving in of social commentary; securing the cast, character breakdowns & memorable supporting roles; the infectious, smash hit theme song; long-lasting legacy, further incarnations, subsequent documentaries, plus favorite moments from the film. **Starring Lily Tomlin, Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, Dabney Coleman. Directed by Colin Higgins.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, ALL OF ME (1984): After a failed transmigration, the soul of a wealthy woman becomes trapped inside her estate planner. With her only controlling one side of his body, the two must work together to get her soul into the intended person. **Starring Steve Martin, Lily Tomlin. Directed by Carl Reiner.** —Justin’s Pick, CLOAK AND DAGGER (1984): Using videogames to escape reality, an imaginative boy finds real-life adventure after witnessing a murder & receiving government secrets, forcing him to go on the run. **Starring Henry Thomas, Dabney Coleman. Directed by Richard Franklin.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Billy and Lily Tomlin’s involvement with an unaired pilot of the docuseries, WIRED IN. And Lindsay was able to speak with the two legendary documentarians behind the series. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: A super-caffeinated scene, seeing Lily Tomlin in an airport bathroom & the lawsuit against Dolly Parton over NINE TO FIVE’s theme song. ▶️Next Up: January 2021, THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (1991)!

Perhaps no other film better illustrates laughter through pain than the timeless classic, STEEL MAGNOLIAS (1989). This true story is not only a moving, cathartic expression, but also celebrates life & immortalizes a tragic, yet universally relatable journey. ▶️Synopsis: Set in Natchitoches, Louisiana, six women are brought together by a local salon, not only to have their hair & nails done, but to share their lives with one another, including a mother & her diabetic daughter’s desire to live life without constraints. Together, these women go through the best & most difficult of times, further solidifying their lifelong bond. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Writer Robert Harling’s adaptation of true events, writing process & collaboration with director Herbert Ross; main & supporting cast, character breakdowns, blocking choreography, usage townsfolk; clever story evolution, dedication to accuracy, balancing narrative & character development; on-location filming, recreating a real-life community, unused soundtrack, favorite moments & lasting legacy of the film. **Starring Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, Julia Roberts. Directed by Herbert Ross.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, BOYS ON THE SIDE (1995): After responding to an ad seeking a road trip partner, two women begin a cross-country trek, resulting in rescuing a friend from an abusive relationship & forming unexpectedly deep connections. **Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Mary-Louise Parker, Drew Barrymore. Directed by Herbert Ross.** —Justin’s Pick, POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE (1990): Following a stint in rehab, an actress in recovery attempts to reenergize her career, while also ordered to live with a responsible adult — her competitive, yet legendary actress mother. **Starring Shirley MacLaine, Meryl Streep, Dennis Quaid. Directed by Mike Nichols.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: How Billy’s father, Edward Murray, relished laughter in their household, a trait which helped the family cope & laugh through tears when he passed away. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Shirley MacLaine’s secret to crying & Sally Field’s dedication while filming the funeral scene, as well as the Steel Magnolias TV pilot. ▶️Next Up: DOLLY DECEMBER: 9 TO 5 (1980)!

Expanding a comedy sketch into a full-length feature film is always a gamble. When WAYNE’S WORLD hit theaters in 1992, the film’s instant success was not only a surprise, but also catapulted careers & paved the way for even more Saturday Night Live films. By appealing to a mass audience & departing from predictable humor, WAYNE’S WORLD continues to be a beloved comedy classic. ▶️Synopsis: Two music-oriented best friends, Wayne and Garth, produce a late-nite, cable access entertainment TV show called Wayne’s World. Seeing an opportunity to exploit the show, a slick TV producer attempts to commercialize the underground program, while also trying to schmooze Wayne’s ultra cool, musician girlfriend. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Evolution & development of Wayne & Garth, from conception to SNL’s effect; director’s background, influence & filmmaking style; writing the film, structuring commentary with story & atypical humor; cast, cameos & character breakdowns; musical influences & cultural impact; behind-the-scenes tidbits, audience, reception, sequel & subsequent SNL movies. **Starring Mike Myers, Dana Carvey, Tia Carrere, Rob Lowe. Directed by Penelope Spheeris.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, CONEHEADS (1993): Stranded on Earth after crash landing, three cone-headed extraterrestrials are forced to assimilate to human life, while also trying to avoid governmental deportation. **Starring Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, Michelle Burke. Directed by Steve Barron.** —Justin’s Pick, AIRHEADS (1994): Determined to have their demo played on the radio, an aspiring & desperate band resort to holding a radio station hostage with water guns. **Starring Brendan Fraser, Adam Sandler, Steve Buscemi. Directed by Michael Lehmann.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Find out the origin of a well-known WAYNE’S WORLD catchphrase through another legendary SNL duo, Billy & Gilda Radner. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Two scenes Myers wanted cut from WAYNE’S WORLD, Justin’s acquisition of his Wayne’s World hat & rethinking the intensity of the head-banging to Queen car scene. ▶️Next Up: DOLLY DECEMBER: STEEL MAGNOLIAS (1989)!

Alexander Payne’s ELECTION (1999) breaks down politics in the most basic of ways. Through sharp critique, biting satire & layered performances, the fresh relevance of this film rings true in its relatability. ELECTION’s brutal honesty & exposure of human imperfections makes it one of the most provocative comedies fo the ‘90s. ▶️Synopsis: Feeling that an over-achieving high school student needs to be sidelined, a well-liked teacher convinces a popular jock to join the race for student body president. In doing do, multiple feuds come to the forefront as everyone’s morals and ethics are tested. ⏩⏩Discussions include: The real-life inspirations for ELECTION, adapting the novel for film & pre-production journey; layered writing style & visual translation; themes & filming techniques; main character breakdowns & relatability; Payne’s dedication to detail with casting choices, rewrites, filming locations, set design & costuming; visual cues, metaphors, use of edgy, dark humor; critical reception & marketing. **Starring Reese Witherspoon, Matthew Broderick, Jessica Campbell, Chris Klein. Directed by Alexander Payne.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, BILOXI BLUES (1988): An autobiographical tale of a young man’s observations & experiences while in boot camp during WWII. **Starring Matthew Broderick, Christopher Walken, Corey Parker. Directed by Mike Nichols.** —Justin’s Pick, YOU CAN COUNT ON ME (2000): In a story about reevaluating one’s life, an independent single mother becomes the beacon of strength & growth for her brother who drifts back into her life. **Starring Laura Linney, Mark Ruffalo, Matthew Broderick, Rory Culkin. Directed by Kenneth Lonergan.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Billy’s turn as Franklin D. Roosevelt in HYDE PARK ON HUDSON, how he came to be involved, prep work for the role & anecdotes from the film’s cast. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: The decision to reshoot ELECTION’s climax. ▶️Next Up: WAYNE’S WORLD!

Considered one of the all-time best horror movies, George A. Romero’s DAWN OF THE DEAD (1978) is a landmark achievement in moviemaking. Artistically combining social commentary, storytelling & game-changing visuals, the essence of DAWN is still emulated to this day. It is the zombie movie to which all others are compared. When there is no more room in hell, the dead will walk the Earth... and Romero is the only one who can properly guide us.   ▶️Synopsis: Society is in the midst of chaos as an ever-growing epidemic of the dead rising & attacking the living is taking over. Brought together by circumstances, a foursome seek refuge in a mall, but find the outside world is impossible to avoid. ⏩⏩Discussions include: A brief history on zombie films & beginnings of Romero’s career; origin, script, pre-production & community vibe of DAWN; unique story structure, filming techniques, realism, intended tones, themes & spirit of the film; strength of characters/cast; original ending, Tom Savini’s inspiration for makeup/effects, reception, advertising, impact & the film’s unsettling score; Romero’s subsequent “Of The Dead” films & DAWN’s 2004 remake. **Starring Ken Foree, Gaylen Ross, David Emge, Scott Reiniger. Directed by George A. Romero.**   ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK**   —Lindsay’s Pick, CHILDREN SHOULDN’T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS (1972): Six theatre actors head out to a deserted island cemetery wherein they enact a ritual to raise the dead. **Starring Alan Ormsby, Anya Ormsby, Valerie Mamches. Directed by Bob Clark.**   —Justin’s Pick, THE DARK HALF (1993): A high-brow author is exposed for writing bestselling, gumshoe thrillers under an alias. While attempting to squash his secret career, the murderous character in his book comes to life. **Starring Timothy Hutton, Michael Rooker, Amy Madigan. Directed by George A. Romero.**   ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Anecdotes from the production of THE DEAD DON’T DIE,  plus an unforgettably classic Billy story.   ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Some more love given to DAWN’s Gaylen Ross & the film’s director, along with Romero’s lost film, THE AMUSEMENT PARK (1973). ▶️Next Up: ELECTION (1999)!

ALMOST FAMOUS has not aged a day since its release in 2000. Writer/director/producer Cameron Crowe is known for films which speak to romantic or nostalgic sensibilities. ALMOST FAMOUS gave him the opportunity to tell an unconventional & endearing story from his youth. This cinematically poetic love letter to music shepherds a coming of age story on the road with a touring band & a teenager clinging to his morals while carving his path into journalism. Timeless & inspiring, this story is alllllmost completely true. ▶️Synopsis: In 1973, a 15-year-old music journalist went on tour with an up-and-coming rock band. While uncovering intimate truths about the music world, interpersonal & romantic relationships, he tries not to involve himself in the story, which is headed for the cover of Rolling Stone. ⏩⏩Discussions include: A brief history on Crowe’s career pre-ALMOST FAMOUS; origin of the script, influences, blurring together fact & fiction; musical guidance on songwriting & authenticity; journalism, realism, fandom & heart of the film; the vibrant cast & character breakdowns, plus casting stories & Crowe’s style of emotional manipulation, creating a mood & mixing tones; the “Bootleg Cut,” critical & box office reception, along with the film’s extreme rewatchability. **Starring Patrick Fugit, Billy Crudup, Kate Hudson, Frances McDormand. Directed by Cameron Crowe.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, DESERT BLUE (1998): Driven by a need to posthumously complete his father’s desert waterpark, a young man falls for a stranded out-of-towner and lets her into his unfamiliar, small town world. **Starring Brendan Sexton III, Kate Hudson, Christina Ricci, Casey Affleck. Directed by Morgan J. Freeman.** —Justin’s Pick, SINGLES (1992): Set during Seattle’s grunge-era, this story follows people living in one apartment complex, all in a state of change, experiencing effects of past relationships on current ones and searching for companionship. **Starring Bridget Fonda, Campbell Scott, Kyra Sedgwick, Matt Dillon. Directed by Cameron Crowe.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Firsthand details on musician Laena Geronimo’s weekend hanging out with Billy at 2010’s South By Southwest. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: A serendipitous moment Hudson shared with her mom, Goldie Hawn, and the awesome “Stairway to Heaven” deleted scene in ALMOST FAMOUS. ▶️EXTENDED CUT: A peek into the Laena Geronimo’s band FEELS’ second album, Post Earth, with the incendiary track, “Find a Way.” ▶️ Next Up: THE EXORCIST III!

Imagine paying your dues in an unforgiving entertainment world for over 10 years, then becoming an international sensation almost overnight. That was Jim Carrey’s life in 1994. ACE VENTURA: PET DETECTIVE garnered much attention for everyone involved, but this bizarre detective comedy was an extreme gamble with great deal of thought beneath the surface. ▶️Synopsis: When the mascot for the Miami Dolphins is kidnapped, a pet detective named Ace Ventura is hired to solve the crime. After immersing himself in the case & subsequent kidnapping of the team’s all-star quarterback, Ventura finds himself in a twisted tale of the revenge. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Origin & revisions of the ACE script; Carrey and director Tom Shadyac’s backstories, creative contributions & how the film affected their careers; use of framing & editing to meld together multiple styles of humor with a detective story; lowdown on the cast, reception of the film, cultural impact, deconstructing ACE’s controversial third act & a ton of behind-the-scenes moments. **Starring Jim Carrey, Sean Young, Courteney Cox, Tone Loc. Directed by Tom Shadyac.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, THE MASK (1994): A sweet, all-around “nice guy” comes upon a mysterious mask which awakens the extreme version of himself. A live-action, vibrant comic book come to life!**Starring Jim Carrey, Cameron Diaz, Peter Greene. Directed by Chuck Russell.** —Justin’s Pick, DUMB AND DUMBER (1994): Idiotic best friends come across a suitcase of money, leading the duo on a cross-country adventure to find the beautiful woman who left the briefcase behind. **Starring Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Lauren Holly. Directed by Peter Farrelly.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: A trip back to Billy being part of a guerrilla investigative journalism team called TVTV who went behind-the-scenes of 1976 Super Bowl X. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: ACE cinemaphotographer Julio Macat’s usage of a bonus camera on set & the impact of ACE’s vernacular. ▶️Next Up: ALMOST FAMOUS (2000)!

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s name is synonymous with celebrated action movies. Before Paul Verhoeven’s TOTAL RECALL (1990) became a massive blockbuster, Schwarzenegger had to fight for it to become a reality. A film with a deeper-than-average plot, dedicated cast/crew and impressively imaginative special effects, TOTAL RECALL is still an extraordinary sci-fi spectacular. ▶️Synopsis: Set in 2084, an everyday man seeks out an adventure of a lifetime. But a botched virtual vacation to Mars makes him the key figure of a non-stop chase concerning a conflict between a rebellion and a corrupt government holding the planet hostage. You decide whether it’s a dream or reality. ⏩⏩Discussions include: TOTAL RECALL’s 10+ year development, initial procurement of the 1966 story, rewrites, influences & early pre-production; the search for the proper director & careful casting choices; placement in Schwarzenegger & Verhoeven’s careers, their personal influences on the production; prophetic, political and violent elements; the film’s visual aesthetic, including practical special effects, miniatures, models, use of light/colors, detailed sets/locations; marketing, critical/audience reception, awards & legacy of; behind the scenes tidbits, favorite scenes & what makes the film so darn enjoyable. **Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rachel Ticotin, Sharon Stone, Michael Ironside, Ronny Cox. Directed by Paul Verhoeven.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, SCANNERS (1981): A security company looking weaponize telekinetic powers dispatches their most powerful human experiment in order to stop a renegade and a rebellion. **Starring Stephen Lack, Jennifer O’Neill, Patrick McGoohan, Michael Ironside. Directed by David Cronenberg.** —Justin’s Pick, KINDERGARTEN COP (1990): A brawny cop goes undercover as a kindergarten teacher to catch a dangerous criminal seeking out his ex-wife and estranged son. **Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Penelope Ann Miller, Pamela Reed, Linda Hunt. Directed by Ivan Reitman.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Remembering the time when (and why) Billy popped up in the otherworldly family comedy, nothin-but-net mega hit, SPACE JAM. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: TOTAL RECALL’s initial MPAA rating, inventive fight sequences, renaming Schwarzenegger’s character because of a political connection and Jerry Goldsmith’s score of the film. ▶️Coming Up: ACE VENTURA: PET DETECTIVE (1994)!

In 1991, writer/director John Singleton provided a window into a world ignored by mainstream cinema with this groundbreaking film. Through  prolific storytelling filled with heart, emotion and honesty, Singleton shed an eye-opening light upon the lives of those familiar to him. A big-budget film studio took a chance on a first-time filmmaker, which resulted in one of the most poignant films to come out the 1990s, BOYZ N THE HOOD. ▶️Synopsis: This coming-of-age story follows a young man sent to live with his father in South Central Los Angeles. With dominant gang culture and oppression being a part of every day life, staying above violence is either not a thought or an every day struggle, but impossible to ignore. ⏩⏩Discussions include: An overview of Singleton’s films and contributions; the development of BOYZ; studio involvement with Singleton’s steadfast vision; social commentary and richly thematic messages about life, self, family/friend dynamics; using interweaving tones throughout the film for realism; finding the perfect ensemble for a complex story, plus behind-the-scenes casting moments; reception and praise for the film, as well as discussing many of our favorite scenes. **Starring Cuba Gooding, Jr., Ice Cube, Morris Chestnut, Laurence Fishburne. Directed by John Singleton.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, HIGHER LEARNING (1995): This film weaves together the lives of three college freshmen as they struggle with their identities and are challenged by outside influences, both positive and negative. **Starring Omar Epps, Kristy Swanson, Ice Cube, Michael Rapaport. Directed by John Singleton.** —Justin’s Pick, DEEP COVER (1992): A cop goes undercover to infiltrate a growing drug ring and finds himself conflicted after getting caught up in the industry. **Starring Laurence Fishburne, Jeff Goldblum, Charles Martin Smith. Directed by Bill Duke.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: A look back on when Billy took revenge on a heckler in the middle of a Second City stage show. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Singleton not telling the cast of BOYZ about a planning shooting and the film’s original score mixed with contemporary music. ▶️ Next Up: TOTAL RECALL (1990)!

PRETTY WOMAN was the movie blockbuster which not only helped define romantic comedies, but also changed the landscape of the genre. Since the film’s release 30 years ago, fashion and culture may have changed, but this good-hearted tale still leaves us feeling like fairytale fantasies can exist. ▶️Synopsis: A wealthy businessman hires a sex worker to escort him to multiple social functions while facilitating a business deal. Over time, the two discover they have more in common that previously realized, resulting in something neither was looking for — love. ⏩⏩Discussions include: A brief history of the romantic comedy genre; the drastic overhaul of PRETTY WOMAN’s initial script, including character tweaking, setups and plot devices; director Garry Marshall’s influence on the film; intentionality of character dynamics and intimacy within the film; importance of casting and chemistry between actors; reaction to the film upon its release, as well as comtemporarily; the impressive soundtrack and behind-the-scenes factoids about filming. **Starring Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Hector Elizondo, Laura San Giacomo, Jason Alexander. Directed by Garry Marshall.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, CONSPIRACY THEORY (1997): When a highly intelligent, conspiracy theorist cabbie chooses to let a government official into his world, his seemingly paranoid ideas begin ringing dangerously true. **Starring Mel Gibson, Julia Roberts, Patrick Stewart, Cylk Cozart. Directed by Richard Donner.** —Justin’s Pick, STEPMOM (1998): A terminally-ill woman’s journey in dealing with her ex-husband’s new partner becoming a secondary mother to her children and an all-round fixture in their lives. **Starring Susan Sarandon, Julia Roberts, Jena Malone, Ed Harris. Directed by Chris Columbus.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Billy surprises a stranger’s bachelor party with some concise marriage advice. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: A funny continuity issue in PRETTY WOMAN, the legendary jewelry box-snap scene, Gere’s piano skills in the film, along with he and Marshall’s jam session at the film’s wrap party.   ▶️ Next Up: BOYZ N THE HOOD (1991)! 

By writing, directing and co-starring in THAT THING YOU DO!, Tom Hanks committed himself to create a solid film about a band’s rise and fall in the music industry. Offering up a sincerely charming, what-if story, Hanks combined one heck of a formidable cast with a driving, inspirational story and an unforgettable soundtrack. No matter what decade in which the film is set, it continues to still strike a chord with audiences over 25 years later.   ▶️Synopsis: Set in the 1960s, The Wonders are a small-town band who unexpectedly hit it big after a new drummer joins the group. Faced with an exciting journey ahead, the band doesn’t look back, but find strong personalities and sustainable success are a difficult combo.⏩⏩Discussions include: Hanks’ inspiration for the film, approach to storytelling, personal connection, placement in his career and being an actor’s director; the original music behind the movie; character breakdowns with an impressive, chemistry-driven ensemble cast; the formation of The Wonders and realistic depictions of being in a band; importance of the supporting cast; and the extended cut vs. the theatrical release of the film. **Starring Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, Ethan Embry, Tom Hanks. Directed by Tom Hanks.**   ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, THE MONEY PIT (1986): After a young couple buys a suspiciously affordable, fixer-upper mansion, they discover the problems go deeper than ever imagined. **Starring Tom Hanks, Shelley Long, Alexander Godunov. Directed by Richard Benjamin.** —Justin’s Pick, SUBURBIA (1996): Wasting most of their days away, a group of teens have their world affected when a hometown friend becomes a rock star and comes to visit. **Starring Jayce Bartok, Amie Carey, Giovanni Ribisi, Steve Zahn. Directed by Richard Linklater.**   ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: How Billy’s 2015 film ROCK THE KASBAH helped motivate positive change through music.   ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: The rumored inspiration behind “Del Paxton” of THAT THING YOU DO! and Ethan Embry’s embarrassing on-set sickness.   ▶️NEXT UP: PRETTY WOMAN (1990)!

Over the last 30 years, TREMORS (1990) has remained an impressively hair-raising monster movie, having garnered a steady following and still inspiring contemporary sequels. It’s one big mutha which appeals to any age and warrants going behind-the-scenes to understand why its boldness sets it apart from other films of the creature-feature genre. ▶️Synopsis: Physically barred from leaving town, two small town handymen stumble upon mysterious deaths and begin to link the grotesque killings to unprecedented, massively monstrous creatures living in the ground.⏩⏩Discussions include: The origin story of TREMORS and how a writing duo’s friendship rolled into a directorial feature debut; crafty and gooey practical effects, miniatures, puppetry, evolution of the Graboid creatures and strength of the script; humor, tone and creation of a small town vibe living a terrifying reality; a deep dive into character dynamics and this solid ensemble cast; favorite scenes, marketing, audience reception and the TREMORS franchise.**Starring Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, Finn Carter, Michael Gross, Reba McEntire. Directed by Ron Underwood.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, RAISING CAIN (1992): This stylish, melodramatic thriller weaves together multiple personality disorder and clinical experimentation on children for a true psychological mind warp. **Starring John Lithgow, Lolita Davidovich, Steven Bauer. Directed by Brian De Palma.** —Justin’s Pick, THE RELIC (1997): After a series of grisly murders, a detective and a biologist must track down a mythical monster stalking and killing people in the Chicago Field Museum. **Starring Penelope Ann Miller, Tom Sizemore, Linda Hunt. Directed by Peter Hyams.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Cutting to the root of Billy’s love for beloved musician, John Prine. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: The two different scores for TREMORS and the film’s effect on Bacon’s career. ▶️NEXT UP: THAT THING YOU DO!

TRUE ROMANCE proves love stories come in many forms. Though it has many diehard fans nowadays, the film was not a smash hit in 1993. Quentin Tarantino penned this incredibly personal story, yet handed over creative control to one of his favorite directors, Tony Scott. Jam-packed with a massively well-known cast, this fantasy love story cleverly intertwines the snowballing effect of two people leaving their lives behind, only to have a world of turbulence to follow. ▶️Synopsis: Clarence, a comic book store nerd, and Alabama, a sex worker, fall in love over the course of one night. After Clarence kills Alabama’s pimp and unknowingly steals a suitcase of narcotics, the two head off into the sunset with the hopes of starting a new life together, but find getting away isn’t all that easy. ⏩⏩Discussions include: The creative relationship between Scott and Tarantino, including how it began, then the blending of writing and directing styles; how the script’s original structure was altered; breaking down the believably intriguing major and minor characters of the cast; the MPAA controversy; the finished, alternate ending and why it was omitted; truth vs. fantasy, along with how typical tropes were challenged within this romance/action/crime genre-blender; initial reception and favorite moments of the film; usage of dark humor, violence, music and Elvis as functions in the story. **Starring Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Gary Oldman, Christopher Walken, Dennis Hopper, Brad Pitt, James Gandolfini, Michael Rapaport, Val Kilmer. Directed by Tony Scott.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, BEYOND RANGOON (1995): While on vacation in Burma following a personal tragedy, an American woman becomes involved with political and societal repression during the 8888 Uprising against militant violence and injustices. **Starring Patricia Arquette, U Aung Ko, Frances McDormand. Directed by John Boorman.** —Justin’s Pick, FROM DUSK TILL DAWN (1996): After a murderous bank robbery, two brothers kidnap a family and head to Mexico for refuge. But when the group stalls out at an unsuspecting vampire bar, they must band together to fight their way out. **Starring George Clooney, Quentin Tarantino, Harvey Keitel, Juliette Lewis. Directed by Robert Rodriguez.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Find out about Jon Favreau’s recording session with Billy and Christopher Walken for THE JUNGLE BOOK soundtrack, followed by a night on the town in New Orleans. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Tony Scott excluding a dog death in TRUE ROMANCE, along with high notes from the film’s soundtrack. ▶️NEXT UP: PEE WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE (1985)!

MISERY (1990) proves subtle terror can be just as effective as straight up horror. Marking the second collaboration between legendary author Stephen King and director Rob Reiner, MISERY grips audiences of every kind, leaving behind hauntingly iconic images. Thirty years later, this critically-acclaimed and disturbingly enjoyable film is still one of the most memorable psychological thrillers around. And also makes us rethink how to use a typewriter and a sledgehammer. ▶️Synopsis: A renowned author has a near-fatal car accident, only to be  rescued by a nurse claiming to be his number one fan... and who holds him captive with no intention of ever letting him leave. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Adapting of King’s novel for the screen and the differences therein; themes behind the story and why Reiner was drawn to MISERY; the cast and working dynamic between Bates and Caan; themes, tone and the film as a character study; the vicious ending, behind the scenes production and special effects. **Starring Kathy Bates, James Caan, Richard Farnsworth. Directed by Rob Reiner.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, FRIED GREEN TOMATOES (1991): An unfulfilled housewife befriends and becomes inspired by an elderly woman who recounts tall tales from her youth and the story of two best friends. **Starring Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Mary Stuart Masterson, Mary-Louise Parker, Cicely Tyson. Directed by Jon Avnet.** —Justin’s Pick, DOLORES CLAIBORNE (1995): A housekeeper is accused of murdering her employer, so her daughter begins to investigate the situation, only to uncover shocking revelations about their family’s past. **Starring Kathy Bates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, David Strathairn. Directed by Taylor Hackford.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Billy, James Caan, Benicio del Toro and Robert Duvall take a little trip to Cuba. ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Addressing any confusion about the Misery books discussed, Lauren Bacall and Barry Sonnenfeld. ▶️NEXT UP: TRUE ROMANCE (1993)!

Mary Harron’s first feature-length film, I SHOT ANDY WARHOL (1996), made a big splash during the heyday of ‘90s independent films. Seamlessly blending historical figures, events and some fiction, Harron crafted a gritty, true-to-life depiction of an almost forgotten moment in time. This critically acclaimed, indie darling made its mark in queer cinema, even upsetting some who lived through the experience, yet still remains a gripping, non-exploitative remembrance of the beginning of the end for two very real people. ▶️Synopsis: Based on a true story, this narrative follows fringe culture activist Valerie Solanas’ life, radical feminist writings and introduction to Andy Warhol, leading to her attempted murder of the legendary artist. ⏩⏩Discussions include: Background on counter-culture, creative minds, Valerie Solanas and Andy Warhol; how writer/director Mary Harron researched and developed the focus for this true story; deciphering fact from fiction; the film’s style, setting and inspiration; Lili Taylor’s of embodiment of the Solanas role, along with an impressive supporting cast; Solanas’ writings and contemporary relevance; the reaction to making a movie about a real-life attempted murder. **Starring Lili Taylor, Jared Harris, Martha Plimpton, Stephen Dorff. Directed by Mary Harron.** ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, DOGFIGHT (1991): After trying to make amends for a mean-spirited game, a Vietnam solider and young woman end up falling in love over the course of one night. **Starring Lili Taylor, River Phoenix. Directed by Nancy Savoca.** —Justin’s Pick, RUNNING ON EMPTY (1988): After becoming accustomed to being fugitives, a married couple’s son begins to pull away from his family as he comes of age. **Starring Christine Lahti, Judd Hirsch, Martha Plimpton, River Phoenix. Directed by Sidney Lumet.** ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: After crashing the biggest private party New York had ever seen, what were the first words Billy ever uttered to Andy Warhol? ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Shout-out to Donovan Leitch; The Velvet Underground and Yo La Tengo’s connection to I SHOT ANDY WARHOL; personal thoughts on Solanas’ motive for murder and reemergence of her script, Up Your Ass. ▶️NEXT UP: MISERY (1990)!

John Carpenter’s THE THING got a bad rap when it was released in 1982. Though a special effects marvel and unique to the science-fiction/horror genre, it is now considered a well-respected, beloved cult film. Isolation and paranoia had not reached such monstrous, cinematic proportions until this landmark achievement in Carpenter’s career. And nearly 40 years later, THE THING still holds strong as a brilliant, deliberately atmospheric display of well-rounded artistry.   ▶️Synopsis: Set in Antarctica, a team of researchers are infiltrated and attacked by a shape-shifting, body assimilating creature that takes over the camp one person at a time. ⏩⏩Discussions include: THE THING’s source material and how Carpenter re-envisioned the story; how tone and pacing create the mood of this ensemble film; Rob Bottin’s visceral special effects, Dean Cundey’s cinematography and the expansive set design; pre-production cast bonding and character interplay; physical challenges faced by cast and crew; Carpenter’s relationship with THE THING star, Kurt Russell; behind-the-scene tidbits, along with Justin and Lindsay’s favorite scenes. **Starring Kurt Russell, Keith David, Wilford Brimley. Directed by John Carpenter.**   ▶️**PICKS OF THE WEEK**—Lindsay’s Pick, BREAKDOWN (1997): In this taught, cautionary tale, a woman is kidnapped in the middle of nowhere by a mysterious trucker driver, leaving her husband to stop at nothing to track her down. **Starring Kurt Russell, Kathleen Quinlan, J.T. Walsh. Directed by Jonathan Mostow.** —Justin’s Pick, ELVIS (1979): This made-for-tv movie condenses the biggest life moments of music legend, Elvis Presley — from high school to his rise to stardom, relationship with his parents, marriage and segueing into acting. **Starring Kurt Russell, Shelley Winters, Bing Russell. Directed by John Carpenter.**   ▶️MURRAYMOMENT: Revisiting the commercially unsuccessful Billy film, LARGER THAN LIFE (1996), which also featured THE THING’s Keith David, and why this movie deserves another chance.   ▶️FINAL THOUGHTS: Ennio Morricone’s score mixing with Carpenter’s musical contributions for THE THING; critical reception and open-ended climax to the film; THE THING as an AIDS epidemic metaphor; some love for canine actor, Jed the dog.   ▶️NEXT UP: I SHOT ANDY WARHOL (1996)!