The 1994 science fiction movie Stargate is Dave's selection for this week. The film, which put director Roland Emmerich firmly on the Hollywood map, was marketed as an ambitious blend of ancient mythology and future spectacle long before it gave rise to a massive TV franchise.
With Carolco Pictures supporting Emmerich and director Dean Devlin following their success with Universal Soldier, Stargate's production was ambitious for its time. In 1994, the film's visual effects were state-of-the-art, bringing its world to life with a blend of realistic effects, intricate set design, and early computer-generated imagery. Stargate was a huge movie office success, earning over $190 million worldwide and opening the door for Emmerich's subsequent triumphs like Independence Day and The Day After Tomorrow, despite the fact that critics had differing opinions on how it was executed.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
Ancient secrets… buried for thousands of years.
A mysterious artifact… that defies explanation.
And one discovery… that will open the door to another world.
From director Roland Emmerich and producer Dean Devlin comes the sci-fi adventure that launched a universe. When the key is unlocked, a journey begins—beyond the stars, beyond imagination… to a place where myths come alive, and the fate of humanity hangs in the balance.
Stargate — the gateway has been opened. Are you ready to step through?
Fun Facts
The film that launched a franchise – Stargate was so successful it inspired multiple TV shows, including Stargate SG-1, Atlantis, and Universe, making it one of the most enduring sci-fi franchises of all time.
Roland Emmerich’s big break – Director Roland Emmerich scored his first major Hollywood hit with Stargate, paving the way for blockbusters like Independence Day (1996) and The Day After Tomorrow (2004).
A surprise box office smash – Released in 1994, Stargate grossed over $196 million worldwide, a huge win for an original sci-fi property.
Record-breaking opening – At the time, Stargate set the record for the highest-grossing October opening weekend in U.S. box office history.
A star-making role for James Spader – Although James Spader was already respected as a dramatic actor, Stargate introduced him to a wider mainstream audience.
Kurt Russell wasn’t the first choice – The role of Colonel Jack O’Neil was originally offered to several actors, but Kurt Russell ultimately took it and delivered one of his most stoic performances.
Filming in the desert – Many of the film’s desert scenes were shot in Yuma, Arizona, and the Valley of Fire in Nevada, standing in for an alien world.
A nod to real mythology – The story draws heavily on ancient Egyptian mythology, blending it with sci-fi concepts to create the mystery of the Stargate.
A cult following grew fast – While critics were mixed on release, Stargate found a passionate fanbase that drove the demand for spinoffs and conventions.
The Stargate prop was massive – The iconic Stargate itself was a practical set piece, weighing over 7 tons and measuring nearly 20 feet in diameter, making it one of the largest sci-fi props of its time.
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The next VHS Strikes Back pick comes from Chris, and he’s gone for the high-octane 1989 comedy Cannonball Run III: Speed Zone — also known in some regions as Cannonball Fever. Chris has a history of picking sometimes questionable movies, and this one certainly fits the bill. Directed by Jim Drake, who was best known for his work in television sitcoms, the film was the third entry in the loose Cannonball Run franchise, following The Cannonball Run (1981) and Cannonball Run II (1984). Despite its connection to the series, Speed Zone leaned heavily into slapstick comedy, celebrity cameos, and outrageous stunt work, attempting to capture the same chaotic energy that made the earlier films cult favorites.
The production brought together a star-studded cast, including John Candy, Eugene Levy, Donna Dixon, and Brooke Shields, with many familiar comedic faces from the era lending their talents. Shot in both Canada and the United States, the movie doubled down on big stunt sequences and over-the-top gags, but it struggled critically and commercially upon release. However, in the decades since, Speed Zone has developed a reputation among fans of offbeat ‘80s comedies as a guilty pleasure, bolstered by its eccentric mix of stars and its place in the larger, gloriously messy Cannonball Run legacy.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
Buckle up… because the road is about to get ridiculous. When a cross-country race brings together the most outrageous drivers ever put behind the wheel, chaos takes the fast lane. With comedy legends like John Candy and Eugene Levy trading punches with traffic laws, and stunt drivers risking it all for the biggest gags on four wheels… this isn’t about winning — it’s about surviving the ride. Speed Zone… where the gas pedal meets pure madness.
Fun Facts
John Candy joined the cast after turning down several roles in the late ‘80s.
The movie features a star-studded cast, including Brooke Shields, Eugene Levy, Donna Dixon, and Tim Matheson.
Despite being packed with comedic talent, the movie bombed at the box office, making less than $1 million in the U.S.
Brooke Shields won a Golden Raspberry Award (Razzie) for Worst Supporting Actress for her role in Speed Zone.
Director Jim Drake had previously directed Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol.
The movie’s stunt work involved real high-speed chases, with stunt drivers performing dangerous maneuvers instead of relying on camera tricks.
The working title during production was Cannonball Run III, but rights issues prevented the official branding.
John Candy and Eugene Levy would later reunite in other comedy projects, solidifying their reputations as Canadian comedy legends.
The film has since developed a cult following among fans of bad movies, often celebrated for its over-the-top humor and chaotic energy.
The film was released internationally under different titles, including Cannonball Run III in some regions, which confused audiences but helped it connect to the more successful franchise.
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This week’s VHS Strikes Back pick comes from Patreon supporter Timothy, and he’s chosen Out for Justice from 1991. By this point, Steven Seagal had already punched and wrist-locked his way into Hollywood as the latest in a long line of action stars. Out for Justice was his fourth movie in just a few years, with Warner Bros. doubling down on his image as a ponytailed, tough-talking enforcer. Unlike the big, explosive blockbusters of Stallone or Schwarzenegger, Seagal’s films leaned on a supposed “authentic” martial arts style — though whether that really translated to convincing screen action is up for debate.
The film was directed by John Flynn, a respected filmmaker who had delivered solid crime thrillers like The Outfit and Best Seller. Flynn brought a gritty, street-level feel to the project, shooting largely on location in Brooklyn. Behind the scenes, however, reports suggest the production wasn’t the easiest, with Seagal throwing his weight around and shaping both the story and the fight scenes to suit his ego. Despite mixed reviews, Out for Justice still turned a tidy profit at the box office — proof that in the early ’90s, audiences were still willing to buy what Seagal was selling, even if the moves looked more like clumsy shoves than martial arts mastery.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
Brooklyn, 1991. The streets are mean, the accents are thick, and justice… wears a ponytail. Steven Seagal is Gino Felino, a cop with a badge, a bad attitude, and a fighting style that looks suspiciously like pushing people through windows.
When crime takes over his neighborhood, one man will grunt, squint, and wrist-lock his way to vengeance. He’s not fast, he’s not flashy… but he’s got a leather jacket, and apparently that’s enough. Steven Seagal is… Out for Justice.
Fun Facts
Out for Justice was Steven Seagal’s fourth starring role, following Above the Law (1988), Hard to Kill (1990), and Marked for Death (1990).
The film was directed by John Flynn, who also made Lock Up (1989) with Sylvester Stallone.
Seagal’s character, Gino Felino, was originally written with a more serious tone, but many critics felt Seagal’s wooden delivery undercut the drama.
The movie was shot in Brooklyn, New York, and made heavy use of authentic neighborhood locations.
William Forsythe plays the villain Richie, and he reportedly gained weight for the role to emphasize his character’s sleaziness.
Despite being marketed as a martial arts showcase, Seagal uses very little traditional martial arts in Out for Justice — relying instead on Aikido wrist locks and throws.
The film’s tagline was: “He’s a cop. It’s a dirty job… but somebody’s got to take out the garbage.”
Critics often describe Out for Justice as one of Seagal’s “grittier” early films, though many also call it one of his most unintentionally funny.
The film opened at number one at the U.S. box office, grossing over $10 million in its opening weekend.
Out for Justice has become something of a cult favorite for fans of “so-bad-it’s-good” action cinema, especially among Steven Seagal skeptics.
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This week’s VHS Strikes Back pick comes courtesy of our Patreon supporter Tony Farina, who’s chosen the cult classic Death Race 2000 from 1975. Produced by the legendary Roger Corman, the film was made on a shoestring budget of around $300,000 and shot in just a few weeks — a hallmark of Corman’s efficient, low-cost production style. Director Paul Bartel brought a tongue-in-cheek, satirical flair to the project, blending dark comedy with over-the-top action. The movie was distributed by New World Pictures and became one of Corman’s biggest hits, pulling in several million dollars at the box office and cementing its place in grindhouse cinema history.
Filming took place largely in Southern California, with many of the driving scenes shot on open roads and rural highways. The film’s custom-built cars — designed to look like weaponised racing machines — were actually modified VW Beetles and other inexpensive chassis, cleverly dressed to appear more menacing on screen. Death Race 2000 also gained attention for casting then-up-and-coming Sylvester Stallone alongside established star David Carradine. Its satirical take on American culture, paired with outrageous vehicular mayhem, helped it develop a long-lasting cult following and inspire numerous sequels, remakes, and reimaginings in the decades that followed.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In the year 2000, the world’s most dangerous sport isn’t played in a stadium — it’s fought on the open road.
Five killers behind the wheel. One cross-country death race. And every pedestrian is just another way to score.
David Carradine is Frankenstein — the unstoppable champion shrouded in mystery. Sylvester Stallone is Machine Gun Joe — the hot-headed challenger with a taste for blood. In a future where speed kills… and killing wins… there’s only one rule:
Drive fast. Hit hard. Stay alive.
Fun Facts
Filming in Record Time – Production reportedly wrapped in just three weeks, with multiple car stunts done in single takes to save money.
Controversial on Release – Upon release, some critics called it tasteless and violent, while others praised its biting social commentary.
Improvised Dialogue and Action – Many scenes were ad-libbed, giving the movie its quirky, off-the-cuff charm.
Influence on Pop Culture – The movie inspired multiple remakes, sequels, comic books, and video games, cementing its cult status.
Filmed Across California – Despite being set in a dystopian America, most scenes were shot in California’s backroads and desert landscapes.
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This next movie pick comes from VHS Strikes Back Patreon Matt Bates, and he’s chosen a gritty, bloody, and proudly British cult favourite: Dog Soldiers (2002). Directed by Neil Marshall in his feature debut, this film has become a fan-favourite among horror and action enthusiasts alike, thanks to its blend of pitch-black humour, practical effects, and relentless werewolf mayhem. It’s a howling good time—and an ambitious low-budget thriller that punches well above its weight.
Shot on a modest budget of around £2 million, Dog Soldiers was filmed almost entirely in Luxembourg, standing in for the Scottish Highlands. Neil Marshall, previously known for his editing work, wrote the script and directed the film with a scrappy indie spirit. The movie faced its share of production hurdles—tight schedules, unpredictable weather, and the ever-present challenge of doing creature effects on a budget. Instead of CGI, Marshall opted for practical werewolf suits, a choice that helped cement the film’s cult status. Despite limited theatrical release, it became a sleeper hit on home video and has since earned a reputation as one of the best werewolf films of the modern era, launching Marshall’s directing career and paving the way for his later hits like The Descent and Doomsday.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
They were just soldiers… on a routine training mission in the remote Scottish Highlands. But when night falls, the hunt begins. Now, cut off from command, outgunned, and outnumbered, a ragtag squad must face a nightmare that doesn’t sleep, doesn’t reason… and definitely doesn’t bleed. From the director of The Descent comes a relentless, blood-soaked battle for survival. This time, the enemy isn’t human… it’s hungry. Dog Soldiers - lock, load, and pray for daylight.
Fun Facts
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This week’s stitch-up comes courtesy of Dave, who’s chosen Universal Soldier II: Brothers in Arms from 1998. A made-for-TV sequel to the 1992 cult hit Universal Soldier, this entry was produced by Trimark Pictures and aired as part of a two-part Canadian-American miniseries.
Rather than bringing back Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren, the production recast the lead roles with Matt Battaglia and Andrew Jackson, respectively. Filmed back-to-back with Universal Soldier III: Unfinished Business, the sequels were shot primarily in Toronto, Canada, with a lower budget and a tighter shooting schedule to accommodate television constraints. The movies were directed by Jeff Woolnough, a Canadian television director who would go on to build a solid reputation for his work on genre series like The Expanse and Vikings.
The production was backed by Trimark Pictures and Saban Entertainment, with the intention of launching a possible syndicated series or franchise expansion outside the theatrical model. Despite ambitious plans, the sequels were met with criticism for their lack of continuity with the original film, absence of the original cast, and noticeable drop in production quality. Nevertheless, they found an audience among late-night cable viewers and curious fans of the original film, gaining a degree of cult status for their earnest—if underwhelming—attempt to extend the Universal Soldier mythos into the TV movie realm.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
They turned him into the ultimate weapon… but now, the mission is off the books, the budget is slashed, and the action? Downgraded. In a world where the original Universal Soldier is nowhere to be found, Matt Battaglia steps in as the new Luc Deveraux—locked and loaded for a sequel no one asked for, but someone definitely greenlit. Explosions! Conspiracies! And Canadian parking lots doubling for top-secret military bases! This time, it’s not about winning the war… it’s about stretching the franchise to its absolute limits. Universal Soldier II: Brothers in Arms — the only thing more unstoppable than the soldiers… is the confusion.
Fun Facts
1. Former NFL linebacker and actor Matt Battaglia stepped into the role of Luc Deveraux, originally played by Jean-Claude Van Damme in the 1992 film.
2. Despite being set in the U.S., the movie was primarily filmed in Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario, a popular cost-saving move for TV productions in the 1990s.
3. This film was shot simultaneously with its follow-up, Universal Soldier III: Unfinished Business, to reduce production costs and maximize continuity.
4. This TV sequel is not considered canon in the Universal Soldier film timeline, especially after the theatrical release of Universal Soldier: The Return in 1999.
5. The existence of multiple sequels with different continuities has made the Universal Soldier timeline notoriously confusing for fans.
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The next movie pick comes courtesy of Chris, who’s known for his love of high-energy, action-packed flicks. Following on from his previous picks, Chris has chosen Universal Soldier (1992)—a film that perfectly captures that early ’90s blend of sci-fi and adrenaline-fueled spectacle.
Universal Soldier is a 1992 science fiction action film directed by Roland Emmerich in his Hollywood debut. The movie stars Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren, two iconic action stars of the early 1990s. Produced on a mid-range budget, the film combined practical effects with emerging visual techniques, helping to establish Emmerich’s reputation for large-scale action spectacles.
Filmed primarily in California, Universal Soldier features intense fight choreography and explosive set pieces that defined ‘90s action cinema. Despite mixed critical reviews at release, the film became a cult favorite and launched a successful franchise with multiple sequels. Its production marked an important milestone for both the director and its lead actors, highlighting the era’s appetite for high-energy, science fiction-inspired action movies.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
Two unstoppable forces. One relentless mission. In a world where science pushes the limits of man and machine, only the toughest survive. Brace yourself for explosive action, high-octane thrills, and a battle that blurs the line between human and weapon. Get ready—because this summer, the war for control just got personal.
Fun Facts
Universal Soldier marked the Hollywood directing debut of Roland Emmerich, who previously worked on German films before breaking into the U.S. market.
Released by TriStar Pictures, Universal Soldier received mixed reviews upon release but grew into a cult favorite among action fans.
The production had a budget of approximately $22–23 million, blending intense practical stunts with early computer-generated effects.
Principal photography was filmed mostly in Southern California, utilizing desert landscapes and urban settings to create its futuristic military vibe.
Jean-Claude Van Damme performed many of his own stunts
The film’s popularity led to a franchise with multiple sequels and made-for-TV spin-offs, maintaining the sci-fi action legacy.
Roland Emmerich later directed other blockbuster hits such as Independence Day (1996), Godzilla (1998), The Patriot (2000), The Day After Tomorrow (2004), and 10,000 BC (2008).
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This week’s pick is courtesy of Patreon supporter John Hammond—an undisputed master of chaos, who previously cursed us with the likes of For Your Height Only, Bloody Muscle Body Builder in Hell, and Devil Fetus. Now, he's reached deep into the arthouse-horror void and pulled out Santa Sangre (1989), a film beloved by critics, film students, and probably no one with a functioning sleep schedule. While some might call it a surrealist masterpiece, others might say it’s the kind of movie that would clear a room at a house party.
Directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky—yes, the same man behind El Topo and other “What did I just watch?” experiences—Santa Sangre was his return to cinema after a ten-year break. Co-produced by Claudio Argento, it was shot in Mexico City with a mix of circus performers, real-life street characters, and Jodorowsky’s own sons. The film draws from real-life crime, religious trauma, and about five pounds of metaphor, creating a hallucinatory, blood-soaked experience that critics loved. Allegedly. With elaborate practical effects, dreamlike sequences, and enough symbolism to choke a film studies syllabus, it’s a cult darling that dares you to understand it—or even enjoy it.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
He was a child of the circus... broken, silent, and bound to a mother whose grip reached beyond the grave. In a world of twisted faith, shattered minds, and blood-soaked revenge, one man’s descent into madness becomes a symphony of horror and illusion. From visionary director Alejandro Jodorowsky comes Santa Sangre—a surreal, nightmarish journey through trauma, obsession, and the haunting legacy of a past that refuses to die. When the curtain rises, there’s no escape from the spectacle.
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This week's nostalgic dive comes courtesy of Patreon supporter Lucky Looloo Green—who’s not only a proud VHS Strikes Back backer, but also a top-tier supporter of our CD Reality TV Cast! Her pick? The gloriously goofy, genre-clashing Buffy the Vampire Slayer from 1992. Before the brooding drama and Scooby Gang of the TV series, there was Kristy Swanson in neon spandex, staking vamps between cheer routines and shopping trips. It’s a wildly uneven ride, and Lucky Looloo knew exactly what kind of glorious chaos she was serving up.
Written by Joss Whedon as a darker, more subversive take on the horror genre, the production of Buffy quickly veered away from his vision. Director Fran Rubel Kuzui leaned into campy comedy and teen movie tropes, creating a tonally uneven but undeniably memorable cult film. Whedon eventually walked off set due to creative differences, which later inspired him to relaunch the concept as a TV series that stuck much closer to his original script. Still, the movie had its charms: a young Kristy Swanson in the title role, Donald Sutherland and Rutger Hauer vamping it up, and an early appearance by Luke Perry that helped draw teen audiences. It's a quirky artifact of its time, and Lucky Looloo Green clearly knew exactly what kind of nostalgic madness she was unleashing.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
She was just your average valley girl—cheer captain by day, mall rat by night. But when destiny calls, Buffy Summers discovers she’s the one thing standing between the world and a vampire apocalypse. Trained by a mysterious Watcher and armed with killer one-liners and a pointy wooden stake, she’ll have to ditch the pom-poms and face off against an ancient bloodsucker with big plans. Get ready for high kicks, high stakes, and high school horror like you’ve never seen before... because this time, the Slayer wears lip gloss.
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This week’s pick comes courtesy of longtime VHS Strikes Back Patreon supporter Herb, who’s chosen the delightfully oddball Aussie gem Malcolm from 1986. It’s a film that proves even the quietest, most socially awkward tram enthusiast can have a life of crime tucked beneath his cardigans. With its quirky charm, deadpan humor, and a DIY spirit that would make MacGyver jealous, Malcolm is a criminal caper unlike any other—and it’s all thanks to Herb's impeccable taste for the weird and wonderful.
Directed by Nadia Tass and written by Tass and her husband David Parker, Malcolm was made on a modest budget but with no shortage of creative flair. Shot in Melbourne and using the city’s trams as both setting and plot device, the film’s charm stems from its inventive low-fi gadgetry and the offbeat chemistry between its leads. The character of Malcolm was inspired by real-life eccentric inventors, and much of the film’s contraptions were built practically—no special effects, just good old-fashioned Aussie ingenuity. The movie was a critical darling in Australia, earning multiple AFI awards and cementing its place as a cult classic for fans of heartfelt oddities.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
Meet Malcolm—a painfully shy, tram-loving genius with a knack for building bizarre contraptions and no clue how to talk to people. But when he takes in a pair of dodgy housemates with a taste for petty crime, Malcolm’s quiet life gets a serious jolt of adrenaline. With his mechanical wizardry and their criminal know-how, the trio cook up the most unconventional heists Melbourne has ever seen. Get ready for exploding milk carts, remote-controlled getaway cars, and one socially awkward hero who proves that crime really can be engineered!
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Strap in and set phasers to “tense banter” — this week’s pick comes from Dave, who’s boldly going where Chris would frankly rather not: Star Trek: First Contact (1996). As a lifelong Trekkie, Dave’s diving into one of the most action-packed, fan-favourite entries in the franchise, while Chris braces for a full-on warp-speed assault of technobabble and space diplomacy. It’s the Next Generation’s big-screen showdown with the Borg... and maybe with Chris’s patience too.
Directed by Jonathan Frakes (aka Commander Riker himself), First Contact was the second film to feature the Star Trek: The Next Generation crew and the first where they fully took command of the franchise without the original cast. The production aimed to shake up the usual Star Trek formula, adding darker tones, more cinematic action, and a time-travel plot that brought the crew face-to-face with humanity’s pivotal moment: first contact with alien life. With a larger budget than previous TNG films, the team delivered stunning effects, new sets like the sleek Enterprise-E, and intense Borg prosthetics that pushed the limits of the makeup department. The film was a hit with both fans and critics, and even skeptics had to admit: resistance was... well, maybe not entirely futile.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
The Borg are back—and this time, it’s personal. When Earth’s future is under siege by the galaxy’s most relentless enemy, Captain Jean-Luc Picard must defy orders and lead the crew of the Enterprise-E into the past to stop them. With humanity’s first contact with alien life hanging in the balance, and the Borg threatening to rewrite history, the stakes have never been higher. Explosions, assimilation, and a lot of dramatic stares through viewports—Star Trek: First Contact is warp-speed action with a side of philosophical time-travel. Resistance… is futile.
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The second episode of our Halloween weekend is Tony Farina and Chris Phelps discussing James O'Barr's 1989 Caliber Press masterpiece comic, The Crow. Crossover episode with Indie Comics Spotlight on Comics In Motion.
If you want to talk with Tony about comics or to suggest any future shows, please connect with him on Twitter @Tricycleboombox. You can read his reviews of multiple Independent and DC comics at DC Comics News or at Fantastic Universes. You can find him online and send him an email at https://www.arfarina.com/.
Buckle up, because this episode’s pick comes straight from co-host Chris, who’s chosen to take us on a nostalgic joyride with The Gumball Rally (1976). With a fondness for high-octane chaos and old-school ensemble comedies, Chris dives into the rubber-burning madness of this pre-Cannonball Run classic, where the only rule is there are no rules—unless you're talking about car stunts, in which case, safety was more of a polite suggestion.
Directed by Charles Bail, a veteran stuntman turned filmmaker, The Gumball Rally was a gleeful celebration of America's obsession with speed. Shot across multiple states, the production was a logistical juggling act, choreographing real stunt driving and capturing high-speed chases without the benefit of today’s CGI trickery. The filmmakers leaned heavily on professional stunt drivers to deliver the film’s most memorable moments, including a now-iconic scene involving a Cobra and a motorcycle cop.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
High-octane chaos erupts as a secret, no-rules coast-to-coast race kicks off from New York to Los Angeles, drawing together a ragtag crew of speed freaks, daredevils, and eccentrics, all revving up for glory. With vintage Ferraris, growling Cobras, and a whole lot of reckless enthusiasm, The Gumball Rally slams the accelerator on competition and carnage—all with the law hot on their tails and no one willing to hit the brakes.
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This week’s throwback VHS gem comes courtesy of long-time Patreon supporter Gareth—who clearly knows his way around a good roundhouse kick. Gareth has chosen China O’Brien 2 (1990), the Cynthia Rothrock martial arts sequel that kicks just as hard as the first. With small-town justice, explosive action, and some delightfully dated hairdos, this one’s a real time capsule of straight to video action cinema.
China O'Brien 2 was filmed back-to-back with the original film in 1988, though it wasn’t released until 1990. Like its predecessor, it was produced by Golden Harvest, the Hong Kong studio famous for bringing Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan to global audiences. The movie was once again helmed by Robert Clouse, best known for directing Enter the Dragon, and featured the same lead trio, Cynthia Rothrock, Richard Norton, and Keith Cooke, reprising their roles. This continuity gave the sequel a consistent tone and feel, even if it lacked the novelty of the first installment.
Rothrock, already a martial arts icon by this point, was one of the few female action stars headlining films in the video rental boom era. Though the sequel received minimal theatrical attention, it found its true home on VHS shelves around the world. It built a cult following among action fans who appreciated the straightforward storytelling, bone-crunching fights, and Rothrock’s no-nonsense screen presence. While not revolutionary, China O’Brien 2 holds a special place as a symbol of the era's scrappy, low-budget action enthusiasm.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a town where justice wears a sheriff's badge and fights with her fists, China O'Brien thought the worst was behind her. But when an old enemy breaks out of prison and comes gunning for revenge, she’ll need more than martial arts to keep the peace. With allies by her side and danger around every dusty corner, she’ll deliver justice, one flying kick at a time. This summer… vengeance has a new opponent… China O’Brien 2.
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We're going off the beaten track for this one! This latest pick by JAC is quite a unique one in that it's a fan made film, Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation. Technically shown for the first time in 1989 and an additional scene added in 2014, this is the movie that was the inspiration for the documentary, Raiders!: The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made.
Checkout JAC's LetterBoxd review here: https://letterboxd.com/iamjacsmusings/
And also JAC's podcast, Back to the Filmography, where he's currently going through every Matthew McConaughey movie.
Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation was a homemade labor of love created by three Mississippi teenagers—Chris Strompolos, Eric Zala, and Jayson Lamb—who began the project in 1982 after being inspired by Steven Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark. With no formal filmmaking experience, a home video camera, and a copy of the film recorded from television, they set out to recreate every scene of the movie shot-for-shot. Over seven summers, they painstakingly built sets, created costumes, and performed their own stunts—sometimes dangerously so, including setting themselves on fire and nearly flooding a basement during a boat scene. Their dedication extended to using pets in place of monkeys, rigging homemade special effects, and convincing friends and family to play supporting roles.
The project was completed in 1989 when the boys graduated high school, though one scene—the airplane explosion—remained unfilmed due to budget and technical limitations. For years, the film remained mostly unseen until a VHS copy reached filmmaker Eli Roth, who showed it at the Butt-Numb-A-Thon festival in 2002. The resulting buzz led to broader recognition, admiration from Hollywood figures like Spielberg and Quentin Tarantino. In 2014, the original trio reunited to finally film the missing airplane scene, completing their youthful vision more than 30 years later. Their story is now celebrated as a testament to creativity, passion, and the enduring magic of cinema.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a world where most kids were content just watching their favorite movies, three Mississippi teens dared to remake one—shot-for-shot. Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation is the unbelievable true story of Chris, Eric, and Jayson, who, armed with a home video camera, pure determination, and a slightly unhinged sense of adventure, set out to recreate Spielberg’s classic over seven summers. No budget, no stunt doubles, no clue—but what they lacked in resources, they made up for in heart. From fiery explosions in backyards to homemade boulders rolling through basements, their journey became the stuff of legend. This summer, witness the ultimate fan film that took over a decade to be discovered, and over 30 years to finish. They didn’t just watch the adventure. They lived it.
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We're diving headfirst into high-flying mayhem with Con Air, a chaotic symphony of explosions, one-liners, and mid-air madness—handpicked by our awesome Patreon supporter Susan from the Geek Girl Soup podcast!
Con Air (1997) was born out of the mid-90s action movie boom, with producer Jerry Bruckheimer riding high from previous hits like The Rock and Crimson Tide. Wanting to blend testosterone-fueled chaos with a high-concept premise, Bruckheimer and the team crafted a story about a maximum-security prisoner transport gone wildly off the rails. The script, written by Scott Rosenberg, was inspired in part by a real federal program, but the film quickly ditched realism in favor of bombast and explosions. Simon West, a former music video director making his feature debut, was brought on to direct, bringing a flashy style that matched Bruckheimer's over-the-top vision.
The production faced major challenges, especially with the practical effects and large set pieces involving planes, crashes, and convicts with very short fuses. Shot primarily in Utah and Nevada, including sequences at the infamous "Boneyard" in the Mojave Desert, the film used a combination of real aircraft, full-scale models, and miniature effects. Despite the logistical headaches, Con Air brought together a ludicrously stacked cast including Nicolas Cage, John Malkovich, Steve Buscemi, and Ving Rhames. Cage famously trained with DEA agents and adopted a Southern accent for his role — choices that added to the movie’s now-iconic (and deeply memeable) legacy.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a world where justice is served on wings of chaos, Con Air follows newly paroled Army Ranger Cameron Poe, who just wants to get home to his wife and daughter—but finds himself trapped on a high-security prisoner transport flight hijacked by some of the most dangerous criminals in America. With time running out and a plane full of maniacs soaring toward disaster, Poe must fight from the inside to stop the carnage, clear his name, and maybe deliver a heartfelt bunny rabbit along the way. Buckle up—this flight's going down in action-packed, slow-mo glory.
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Young Dave, armed with a love for Star Wars and a soft spot for everyone's favourite scruffy-looking nerf herder, thought he was in for another dose of Han Solo heroics when switching on Blade runner. What he got instead was something a little moodier, a lot rainier, and less exciting than Songs of Praise.
The production of Blade Runner (1982) was as tumultuous and moody as the rain-soaked, neon-lit world it depicted. Directed by Ridley Scott, fresh off the success of Alien, the film was envisioned as a noir-infused sci-fi adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?. The shoot was plagued by creative clashes between Scott and the American crew, who bristled at his demanding style, and constant interference from producers worried about the film’s slow pace and philosophical ambiguity. Principal photography was grueling, with night shoots, complex visual effects, and an increasingly strained atmosphere on set. Lead actor Harrison Ford reportedly had a difficult working relationship with Scott, and the overall mood was so tense it was dubbed “Blood Runner” by some of the crew.
Post-production proved just as chaotic. The studio, concerned that the film was too cerebral and obscure, insisted on adding a noir-style voiceover narration and a more upbeat ending—changes that Scott strongly opposed. Multiple versions of the film were created to satisfy different markets and test audiences, adding to the confusion. Upon release, Blade Runner received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, overshadowed by more accessible summer hits. Yet over time, the film’s groundbreaking visual design, atmospheric world-building, and deep philosophical themes helped it gain a devoted following, eventually being recognized as a cornerstone of science fiction cinema.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a future where it always rains and everything is soaked in neon, one man must hunt what isn’t supposed to be hunted. Harrison Ford is Rick Deckard — a retired blade runner pulled back in for one last job. His mission? Track down and "retire" a group of rogue replicants who aren’t going quietly into the night. But as the line between man and machine blurs, the hunter begins to question everything. Get ready for a showdown where the future looks grim, the androids look angry, and the noodles are always hot. This... is Blade Runner!
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After a slow start in the year of the Stichup ,Chris has gone full throttle by picking Maximum Overdrive — Stephen King's chaotic leap into the director’s chair!
Maximum Overdrive marks Stephen King’s one and only time in the director’s chair — and it shows. What was meant to be a thrilling blend of horror and action instead turned into a loud, chaotic mess that careened off the rails almost as quickly as the film’s killer machines. With King himself later admitting to being "coked out of his mind" during production, the set was plagued by technical mishaps, safety issues, and a general sense of confusion. Despite the big names like Emilio Estevez and an all-AC/DC soundtrack trying to give it some punch, the film’s directionless tone and over-reliance on noisy spectacle made it feel more exhausting than exciting.
Critics panned Maximum Overdrive on release, and even among Stephen King’s most loyal fans, it’s often cited as the low point of his career. The practical effects and stunts, while ambitious, can’t save a film weighed down by terrible pacing, thin characters, and an almost comical sense of self-seriousness. Instead of delivering scares, the movie lurches from one over-the-top set piece to another, never quite finding its footing. Over time, it’s gained a cult following, but mostly as a "so bad it's good" curiosity — a cautionary tale of what happens when a writer tries to direct while completely off the rails.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a world where machines turn against their masters, Maximum Overdrive unleashes chaos like never before! When a mysterious comet passes overhead, everyday gadgets — from trucks to toasters — come alive with a deadly agenda. Trapped in a remote truck stop, a ragtag group of survivors must band together to fight off an army of killer vehicles hellbent on destruction. It’s man versus machine in an explosive battle for survival… and in this fight, there’s no off switch! Maximum Overdrive — where the machines run wild and the terror never stops!
This week we’re diving into a cult classic — Escape from the Planet of the Apes — and it’s all thanks to our great Patreon supporter, Leigh! Leigh’s not just a top supporter; he also runs a fantastic YouTube channel called Movie Vent where he shares his love for all things cinema with Ventriloquist dummy, Ned. Check it out at youtube.com/@ventmovies.
Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971) marked a clever shift in the Planet of the Apes franchise, driven by budget constraints and the desire to keep the series alive after the apocalyptic ending of the previous film. Director Don Taylor stepped in to helm the project, which reversed the formula by bringing the apes into the contemporary human world instead of humans stumbling into the apes’ future. The screenplay, written by Paul Dehn, embraced elements of satire and social commentary, while working within a significantly smaller budget than its predecessors. To keep costs down, much of the action was set in familiar, modern-day Los Angeles locations, and only a few characters required full prosthetic makeup compared to the previous films’ elaborate ape societies.
The production leaned heavily on the strong performances of Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter, reprising their roles as Cornelius and Zira, to carry the emotional weight of the story. Special effects were kept minimal, but John Chambers’ iconic makeup design for the apes remained a standout. The studio saw Escape as a gamble, pivoting the franchise from large-scale spectacle to a more character-driven drama with underlying themes of fear, prejudice, and destiny. Despite initial doubts, the movie was a financial success and breathed new life into the series, paving the way for even more sequels down the line.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a world where the future is doomed, three apes take one last chance... and crash-land straight into 1970s America! Hailed as celebrities but hunted as threats, Cornelius, Zira, and Dr. Milo must navigate a society that's as fascinated by them as it is terrified of what they represent. Time is running out, danger is closing in, and the fate of two species hangs in the balance... in Escape from the Planet of the Apes!
Kicking things off with a blast of ‘80s nostalgia, we’re taking on the 1986 BMX cult classic RAD, chosen by our newest Patreon supporter, Nick Bray! Packed with insane bike tricks and a Daniel LaRusso from Wish! Huge thanks to Nick for picking this one, time to dust off the old bike and practice some bunny hops.
RAD was born out of the mid-1980s BMX biking craze, with Hollywood eager to capture the spirit of the sport just as skateboarding was making its big cinematic breakthrough. Directed by legendary stuntman-turned-director, Hal Needham, the film was crafted with a genuine love for high-flying stunts and underdog stories. The production pulled together a mix of professional BMX riders and actors, staging elaborate, gravity-defying race sequences that became the movie’s signature. Shot primarily in Alberta, Canada, RAD managed to capture that small-town Americana vibe, despite the northern filming location, giving it a timeless, every-kid's-dream feel.
While RAD wasn’t a box office success at the time, it found a second life almost immediately on VHS, becoming a cult classic cherished by generations of fans. Its soundtrack, filled with upbeat anthems, and its earnest tone helped cement its status as a beloved underdog movie. Over the years, RAD developed a reputation as the definitive BMX film, inspiring countless kids to get on their bikes and dream big. Despite being out of print for years, its legend only grew, leading to a long-awaited 4K restoration and re-release decades later — proving you just can’t keep a good tailwhip down.
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Trailer Guy Plot Summary
In a world where dreams are built on two wheels and dirt tracks, one small-town kid dares to chase the impossible! RADfollows Cru Jones, a young BMX rider with big ambitions, as he faces off against corporate heavyweights and elite racers in the ultimate test of skill and heart — Helltrack! With gravity-defying stunts, ruthless rivals, and a race that could change his life forever, Cru must risk it all to prove that sometimes, the underdog really can fly!
