This week on "Shat the Movies," we’re diving into The First Power (1990)! Join us as we follow Lou Diamond Phillips’ cop on the hunt for a resurrected serial killer with a sinister supernatural ability.
We’ll unpack the film’s blend of horror, action, and thrills, exploring what makes it a unique ‘90s thriller. Whether you’re a fan or new to the film, tune in for a fun and spooky ride through this supernatural crime drama!
Plot Summary: In the 1990 supernatural thriller The First Power, directed by Robert Resnikoff, Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Russell Logan, a tough Los Angeles detective who captures a notorious serial killer, Patrick Channing (Jeff Kober), known for his ritualistic murders. Channing, dubbed “The Pentagram Killer,” is sentenced to death and executed in the gas chamber. However, Logan soon learns that Channing’s death was only the beginning. The killer made a demonic pact granting him "the first power," a supernatural ability to return from the dead with the power of possession.
Logan teams up with psychic Tess Seaton (Tracy Griffith), whose disturbing visions had helped him capture Channing initially. Now, her psychic abilities reveal that Channing has come back from the grave, more dangerous than ever. Channing’s new power allows him to inhabit the bodies of others, making him an unpredictable and unstoppable force as he resumes his killing spree. Logan, a hardened skeptic, is forced to confront the reality of the supernatural as he battles against an evil far beyond his understanding.
As the possessed Channing terrorizes the city, Logan and Tess must race against time to stop him before he claims more victims. Their investigation leads them through dark alleys, abandoned buildings, and intense confrontations that test Logan’s resolve and Tess’s psychic abilities. The film’s blend of police procedural and supernatural horror keeps the tension high, leading to a climactic showdown between Logan and the malevolent, seemingly invincible Channing.
The First Power combines intense action, horror, and suspense, featuring a chilling performance from Jeff Kober and a gritty portrayal by Lou Diamond Phillips. Join our podcast review as we dive into this 90s thriller, exploring its unique premise, memorable scares, and whether it still delivers the chills today.
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Stressed about the biggest election of our lives? Shat The Movies will transport you back to a time when America was united against global terror and supermodels roamed the runways. Join us for the 2001 Ben Stiller comedy, "Zoolander."
Hot Sauce Steve won the Shat Fantasy Football League last season and chose "Zoolander" as his prize. This cameo comedy is a true time capsule—touching on disposable fashion, millennial celebrities and a few dated jokes.
On this episode, Gene explains why "Zoolander" should be viewed with subtitles. Big D makes the case for reviewing more movies from the 2000s. And Will Farrell proves why he's the funniest guy in every movie he graces.
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"Halloween" is the most-covered franchise in the Shat The Movies catalogue, and this Spooktacular season we're bringing you "Halloween 2," courtesy of listener Rob T.
So what if it this movie mostly takes place in the same small hospital? So what if Michael Myers' backstory essentially is rewritten? This sequel has more of what we loved about the original "Halloween": great boobs, quirky Haddonfield, bloody kills and an absolutely wild Dr. Loomis.
In this episode, Gene and Big D cover dental records, journalism, razor blades in candy, hot tubs, medical malpractice, forced sedation and getting shot in the eyeballs.
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Shat The Movies historically has been less than kind to Stephen King. So this years Spooktacular commissioner, Rob T, challenged us to rewind to the Master of Horror's first work: "Carrie."
Aside from its massive pop-culture impact, this 1976 hit showcased Sissy Spacek's incredible acting skill and Brian De Palma's directorial prowess.
"Carrie" also introduced the Shat Crew to Googly-Eyed Jesus, exercise detention and shockingly effective use of slow-motion while leading us to ask whether the movie poster gave away too much.
Is Stephen King the Hoobastank of authors? How clearly can a person speak while blowing John Travolta? And which utensils are appropriate for killing your mom? We tackle these questions and more, just in time for Halloween.
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Just what does it take to be among Entertainment Weekly's "50 Best High School Movies?" According to "Just One of The Guys," a film needs to be horny, depict decent journalism and have a jaw-dropping fight scene. Bonus points for cross-dressing.
This 1985 adaptation of William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" shocked Dick Ebert with its depictions of a boys locker room, delighted Gene Lyons with its outlandish characters and ventured dangerously close to cringe with a surprise James Brown reference.
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This week on "Shat the Movies," we’re sprinting into the energetic world of Run Lola Run (1998)! Join us as we follow the heart-pounding journey of Lola, played by Franka Potente, as she races against time to save her boyfriend in a series of electrifying scenarios.
We’ll explore the film’s innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, and the pulse-pounding soundtrack that keep you on the edge of your seat. From the high-stakes decisions to the alternate realities, this film redefines the action genre in a unique way. Whether you’re revisiting this stylish classic or experiencing it for the first time, get ready for a fast-paced discussion that highlights the thrill of running against the clock!
Plot Summary: In the 1998 German thriller Run Lola Run, directed by Tom Tykwer, Franka Potente stars as Lola, a young woman who embarks on a heart-pounding race against time to save her boyfriend, Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu). Manni, a low-level criminal, loses 100,000 Deutsche Marks in a botched money drop for his gangster boss. With only 20 minutes to find the money and prevent Manni from committing a desperate robbery, Lola is thrown into a frantic quest through the streets of Berlin.
The film's narrative structure is one of its most unique features, unfolding in three different versions of the same story. Each version explores how small changes in Lola’s actions and timing lead to drastically different outcomes. Whether by chance encounters, split-second decisions, or twists of fate, each run has profound consequences, shaping the lives of Lola, Manni, and the people they encounter.
The film masterfully blends live-action sequences with animated inserts, set to an energetic techno soundtrack that drives the relentless pace. Tykwer's innovative use of time loops and alternative storylines keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, turning what could have been a simple rescue mission into a philosophical exploration of fate, chance, and the power of individual decisions.
As Lola sprints through the city, encountering obstacles and allies, Run Lola Run keeps audiences captivated with its kinetic energy, visual style, and themes of love, loyalty, and determination. The film's fast-paced, high-stakes action, combined with its unconventional storytelling, has made it a cult favorite.
Join our podcast review as we dive into this adrenaline-fueled thriller, discussing its groundbreaking narrative structure, stunning visuals, and whether its pulse-pounding excitement still resonates with modern audiences.
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Celebrate Gene! When listener Mike T. heard Shat The Movies desperately wanted to cover "Withnail and I," he stepped up with the funds to make it happen.
On its surface, "Withnail and I" is a simple movie about two out-of-work actors navigating the bleak landscape of 1960s England. Big D didn't realize it was the 1960s; he just thought England looks like that.
But this cult classic inspired millions—including Gene Lyons—with its sharp wit, unforgettable quotes and rich character study.
In this episode, the Shat Crew dissects the film’s themes of friendship, disillusionment and the struggle for identity, all while celebrating the iconic performances of Richard E. Grant and Paul McGann.
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Shat The Movies travels back to 1977 as we dive deep into Steven Spielberg's iconic sci-fi classic "Close Encounters of The Third Kind." Explore the groundbreaking visuals, unforgettable score and thought-provoking themes that have captivated audiences since its release. Dick Ebert and Gene Lyons dissect memorable moments, ask what the aliens were doing with Barry and discuss the film's impact on the genre.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of extraterrestrial encounters, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and nostalgic memories. Tune in to find out how "Close Encounters" paved the way for future sci-fi films and its lasting influence on pop culture.
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In the 1986 French romantic drama Betty Blue (37°2 le matin), directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix, Jean-Hugues Anglade stars as Zorg, a laid-back handyman and aspiring writer living a simple life in a beachside bungalow. His world is turned upside down when he meets Betty, played by Béatrice Dalle, a passionate and impulsive young woman. Their intense relationship quickly evolves into a whirlwind romance filled with passion, creativity, and chaos.
Betty, who is wild and free-spirited, encourages Zorg to pursue his dream of becoming a writer, believing in his talent more than he does. However, as their love deepens, it becomes apparent that Betty’s erratic behavior is a sign of a much deeper emotional and psychological instability. As she spirals into unpredictable bouts of anger and despair, Zorg’s life begins to unravel, and their relationship is put to the ultimate test.
Determined to support Betty, Zorg follows her through a series of wild adventures, including a move to the city and a desperate attempt to get his novel published. Despite their shared moments of bliss and creativity, Betty's mental health deteriorates, pushing Zorg to the limits of love and devotion as he struggles to cope with her increasingly volatile behavior.
Betty Blue is a visually stunning and emotionally charged exploration of love, madness, and the fine line between passion and obsession. The film, set against the backdrop of 1980s France, captures the highs and lows of an all-consuming relationship. Join our podcast review as we revisit this cult classic, discussing its haunting performances, striking visuals, and whether its raw portrayal of love and mental illness still resonates with audiences today.
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In the gritty underbelly of Chicago, Payback serves up a heaping plate of revenge and betrayal—all wrapped up in a slick, neo-noir package. Starring Mel Gibson as Porter, this 1999 hit plunges viewers into a world where loyalty is as rare as a clean getaway.
After being double-crossed by his wife (Maria Bello) and his partner (Gregg Henry) during a heist, Porter finds himself on the wrong end of a bullet and a whole lot of betrayal. Left for dead and robbed of his cut, he rises from the ashes with one thing on his mind: payback. As he navigates a seedy landscape filled with mobsters, corrupt cops, and a femme fatale, Porter’s quest for vengeance becomes a thrilling, action-packed ride.
Directed by Brian Helgeland, Payback is not just a tale of revenge; it’s a study in the moral ambiguities of crime, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to reclaim what’s theirs. With sharp dialogue, brutal action sequences, and a tongue-in-cheek humor that keeps you on your toes, this film is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Join us as we dive deep into the film's themes, iconic moments, and Gibson's unforgettable performance, breaking down why Payback deserves a spot in your watchlist. Tune in to the Shat The Movies Podcast for an entertaining exploration of this classic revenge flick!
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Join us on this week’s "Shat the Movies" as we dive into the 1988 comedy classic, A Fish Called Wanda! We’ll revisit the film’s hilarious heist and standout performances, promising a fun and entertaining look back at this comedy gem.
Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the movie, we’ve got plenty of laughs and insights to share. Tune in for a splashy good time and see why A Fish Called Wanda still makes waves today!
Plot Summary:In the 1988 comedy A Fish Called Wanda, directed by Charles Crichton, an ensemble cast led by John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin delivers a hilarious tale of crime, deception, and romance. Jamie Lee Curtis stars as Wanda Gershwitz, a seductive and cunning con artist who, along with her lover Otto West (Kevin Kline), a dim-witted, pseudo-intellectual American, teams up with George Thomason (Tom Georgeson), a British gangster, to pull off a lucrative diamond heist in London.
However, when Wanda and Otto double-cross George, hoping to take the diamonds for themselves, things quickly spiral out of control. George is arrested, but not before he secretly moves the diamonds to a hidden location, giving Wanda and Otto no choice but to try to manipulate George's timid and animal-loving accomplice, Ken Pile (Michael Palin), who is fiercely loyal to George and has no intention of divulging the secret.
Wanda decides to seduce George's barrister, Archie Leach (John Cleese), believing he can provide vital information on the diamonds' whereabouts. As Archie, a stuffy, unfulfilled lawyer stuck in a loveless marriage, becomes captivated by Wanda's charms, he unwittingly finds himself caught up in a tangled web of lies, betrayal, and escalating chaos. Meanwhile, Otto, jealous of Wanda's growing attraction to Archie, adds to the pandemonium with his violent outbursts and comically misguided attempts at sabotage.
A Fish Called Wanda combines witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and masterful performances to create a comedic masterpiece that has delighted audiences for decades. Join our podcast review as we revisit this beloved classic and discuss its timeless humor, unforgettable characters, and whether its brilliant blend of wit and farce still entertains today's viewers.
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