Teaming up a sought-after writer & acclaimed director on a film should mean a box office smash. But the extravagant wildcard that is SHOWGIRLS was ridiculed the moment it hit theaters. However, reevaluation of the film’s heightened reality, intensity & stunning production quality have dispelled many early criticisms. Slap on some glitter, paint you…

Selling an atmospheric, science-fiction film about an extraordinary teenager discovering time travel & saving the world was a lofty pitch for a feature film debut. But writer/director Richard Kelly crafted a mind-bending, unconventional story, packed with powerful visuals & rich subtext, which has now turned it into a modern cult classic. It’s time…

Independent cinema & Parker Posey were once synonymous together. PARTY GIRL provides a nuanced & legitimate snapshot of mid-‘90s New York, complete with updated screwball comedy vibes, an inspiring dose of youth-to-adulthood transition & charm from beginning to end. Strap in for this love letter to indie film! ///***Discussions include***\\\ Story …

Richard Linklater’s BEFORE SUNRISE, BEFORE SUNSET & BEFORE MIDNIGHT beautifully articulate how finding a rare connection with another person can affect one’s path in life. Without leaning on nostalgia or typical romantic tropes, THE BEFORE TRILOGY became an unintentional series, and spoke volumes about being in the present moment, being affected by…

On its 50th Anniversary, THE EXORCIST can still boast being as effective today as it was on its release date. With an intense production & determined minds, mix in some truth & multiple controversies, this film cemented a permanent place in pop culture history. Take a trip back to uncover the story behind the film which caused people to question th…

For being an underseen Martin Scorsese film, AFTER HOURS is responsible for rescuing his career in 1985. This wild, insulated world weaves an intricate web of curiosity & chance rolled into an anxiety dream. Scorsese’s fast-paced, down & dirty style takes up residence within the dark corners of New York for this one-night-only adventure of survival…

‘Tis the season! Strap on the chainsaw, brush up on your ancient Latin & saddle up for a relentlessly manic ride back to the cabin. Bruce Campbell & the Evil Dead crew return for this inventive, rip-roaring adventure that won’t stop until you’re possessed by its spirit! //***Discussions include***\\ The original Evil Dead creators returning to thei…

The creative minds behind TEEN WOLF never dreamt it would turn into an iconic film of the ‘80s. With strategic timing & the film’s rising star, this independent werewolf movie would become the most unlikely smash hit. Grab your basketball, letterman’s jacket & get ready for some nostalgia — it’s time for a wall-to-wall Michael J. Fox episode! //***…

This slyly executed, savage satire of a serial killer losing touch with reality was plagued with controversy from its original conception. Even now, the pathology of AMERICAN PSYCHO continues to spark dialogue with its entertaining critique of society & obsession, comic irony & why it remains relevant over 20 years later. Let’s peel back the mask &…

David Fincher’s SE7EN (1995) creates an unforgettable story & blends it into an entertaining, visionary procedural thriller with brutal realities & tonal complexities. Decades later, this bleak world of SE7EN continues to invade psyches with its cleverness & cynical mentality. Serial Killer Summer begins now! //***Discussions include***\\ Backstory…

For our Fifth Anniversary, returning to a nostalgic, lifelong favorite was a no-brainer. Forty years ago, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S VACATION set a standard for not only comedy & road trip films, but also introduced the edgy family film. Through humor, familiar experiences & relatable characters, the Griswold family spawned an unexpected franchise which co…

Spirited hard work continues to pay off even 20 years after SCHOOL OF ROCK’s conception. The heart of rock ‘n roll beats strong with this success story spearheaded by a comedy thundercat, an enigmatic director, an ever-evolving writer & a band of incredibly talented kiddos all sharing the stage with equal importance. //***Discussions include***\\ B…

First-time filmmakers rarely explode on the scene like brothers Albert & Allen Hughes. Amid the racial tensions & frustrations of early 1990's Los Angeles, MENACE II SOCIETY tapped into the gritty truth of the time. A powerful & empathetic look into a community misrepresented by mainstream media, this film was not only important in its heyday, but …

A man wrongfully accused of viciously murdering his wife is a story that’s been around for ages. And in the 30 years since its release, THE FUGITIVE remains one of the most masterfully told thrillers in which action sequences are just as enthralling as the story itself. Time to dive behind the making of this expertly executed film wherein spontanei…

Lies… Manipulation… Gaslighting… OBSESSED. Obsession-driven psychodramas are a special sect of early ‘90s cinema. It also happens to be one of our favorite thriller sub-genres. But what makes them so special? What sets them apart & what do they share in common? We’ve honed in & created our own rules for the genre — what we love, the most memorable …

Though this is the 30th Anniversary of GROUNDHOG DAY, it continues to feel timeless & evolve in meaning as it ages. This high concept film is triple threat — a holiday film, a fantasy comedy & an unassuming emotional touchstone for many audiences. As profoundly involved as this story may be, this Bill Murray vehicle has no shortage of complexities …

Kicking off our 100th Episode with a Controversial Christmas Classic — DIE HARD (1988)! For a future-franchised film jam-packed with exciting explosions, it’s hard to believe this project was a gamble before it ever went into production. From its humble beginning to creating an iconic action hero, the formation of DIE HARD is nothing short of a sur…

Even 30 years after its release, A FEW GOOD MEN tops lists for the most riveting courtroom dramas. Using true events, a coveted director & soon-to-be celebrated writer, the film bleeds talent from all angles & integrity from end to end. All talents behind this film had a clear, unified vision — make a searing, ethically complex drama that would sta…

Combining unrelenting imagination with in-home paranormal activity & child abduction turned into a guaranteed masterpiece with POLTERGEIST (1982). Filmmakers Tobe Hooper & Steven Spielberg proved the horror genre could have emotional depth while remaining absolutely terrifying & creative. And on its 40th Anniversary year, POLTERGEIST still reigns s…

We’re kicking off our fifth Halloween by celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Gore Verbinski’s THE RING. Going for more than jump scares, this American film ushered in the blockbuster trend of remaking a pre-existing film. Not only did it reignite the idea of urban legends & invigorate the careers of those involved, THE RING also proved a remake cou…

In 1992, Quentin Tarantino’s life would drastically change as soon as his first feature film, RESERVOIR DOGS, would debut at Sundance. Though among many stellar films at the festival that year, it would be RESERVOIR DOGS which emerged as a transcendent feat in filmmaking. Time to go back in time to remember its importance in independent filmmaking.…

Creating a successful sequel which stands the test of time & elevates a franchise isn’t an easy feat. But LETHAL WEAPON 2 not only proved audiences wanted more from best buddies, Sgts. Murtaugh & Riggs, but that a sequel could be just as vibrant, alive & — in some ways — superior to the original film. //***Discussions include***\\ The evolution of …

After becoming the biggest buzzworthy phenomenon of mid-‘90s indie film, the bar was set extremely high for Quentin Tarantino’s third film, JACKIE BROWN. Often considered one of his most mature films, JACKIE BROWN tied together a classic style with a fresh voice, while also paying homage to a cinema icon. Everything about this films just gets bette…

We’re back! And with an epic sequel which rivals its predecessor — James Cameron’s ALIENS. Though considered one of the best sequels of all-time, the road to fruition for this marvelously monstrous tour de force was a battle from start to finish. Stop your grinnin’ & drop you linen because this backstory has as many bumps in the road as the film it…

It’s the 4-Year Anniversary of Don’t Push Pause! THE BREAKFAST CLUB is one of the most well-known American films from the 1980s. It roped audiences in with sarcastic, yet endearing humor, then captivated us with its sincere depiction of cutting teenage truths. It became an iconic pinnacle of achievement for all those involved in its creation, but c…

Ivan Reitman was an illustrious filmmaker whose creative ingenuity & lifelong desire for audiences to laugh was born from an unimaginable beginning. With more than 50 years of directing & producing, Reitman turned comedians into movie stars, reinvented careers & subgenres of comedy & sci-fi, while forging longstanding friendships throughout the bus…

Throughout the last 30 years, Adam Sandler has remained current while evolving as an entertainer, yet staying true to his comedy roots. Cranking out hit after hit, join us on this ride through Sandler’s career, making a pit stop at a giant pivotal moment in time with 1998’s THE WEDDING SINGER. //***Discussions include***\\ —Sandler’s break into com…

Celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year, THE GODFATHER is largely considered one of the most influential & important films to date. While it catapulted careers, it also forever changed American cinema & the modern organized-crime film. But the road to fruition was not without constant roadblocks, only adding to what makes this film nothing short…

For being based on a true story, GIRL, INTERRUPTED’s highly-praised & harrowing ensemble cast had to lead with sincerity to leave an enduring impact. Just like the memoir on which it was based, this film continues to affect those looking for authentic connection, while also being well-deserving of rediscovery. //***Discussions include***\\ The chal…

It’s hard to believe a voyeuristic tale about mortality became the biggest blockbuster of 1990. Although GHOST embodied the essence of human connection, it was not the easiest to initially sell. Nevertheless, the film went on to inspire real world conversations about life & death, solidifying its place in pop culture history & proving to be a love …

For a film about imprisonment, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION is an unassuming & bold entry as one of the most popular films of all-time. With inspiration in the face of adversity as an undercurrent, the film speaks in universal themes, emotionally effective & profound in its storytelling. Hope may be a dangerous thing, but for how SHAWSHANK came to frui…

As soon as it hit theaters, RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK became the blockbuster pinnacle of where imagination meets adventure. Forty years after its release, this powerhouse pairing of George Lucas & Steven Spielberg remains a massive achievement within its genre, the film to which all others are compared. And the journey of how Indiana Jones became an …

A low budget horror film becoming a massive success is almost unheard of. When it evolves into a cultural phenomenon, its called Sam Raimi’s THE EVIL DEAD (1981). With its blood-spattered intensity, ingenuity & masterful achievements in resourceful filmmaking, this picture had a brutal, exhausting road to tread. Now entering its 40th year of existe…

Even with previous slasher movie influences, MY BLOODY VALENTINE stood out in amongst the saturated horror market of 1981. But even a well-crafted, creative story couldn’t guarantee immediate success for this film, yet it continues to be a celebrated slasher 40 years later. //**Discussions include**// State of horror movies in 1981 & the Canadian h…

Creating a fresh, well-developed horror movie within the age-old monster genre is no small feat. In 1981, AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON blew minds for its special effects, tonal blending & compassionate story involving doomed characters. The innovation involved not only influenced countless films to follow, but WEREWOLF remains one of the most ren…

RUSHMORE cemented director Wes Anderson as one of the most influential & distinct filmmakers of contemporary time. By standing out from the herd & pairing Bill Murray with a feisty, fresh faced newcomer, RUSHMORE’s innocence & heightened realness set the bar for Anderson’s career. And the creative trust & emotional depth put into making the film ar…

Not only is BEVERLY HILLS COP one of the biggest movie franchises, but it also helped propel a cross-genre of films still thriving today. Almost 40 years after its release, this film is as fresh as ever, and certainly a mega standout amongst action-comedy pairings. But what makes this movie so smart & thoroughly enjoyable goes deeper than just box …

Comedic documentaries existed, but were scarce until Christopher Guest took the reins with WAITING FOR GUFFMAN. By directing, co-writing & starring in the film, Guest assembled a company of actors & manner of heartfelt storytelling. And twenty-five years post-release, GUFFMAN’s “comedy is reality, but one step further” philosophy has become one of …

On its 45th Anniversary, TAXI DRIVER can still boast about being socially relevant & controversial at once. It’s a shockingly honest character study blended into a mesmerizing reality & falling into the darkest depths of a disturbed psyche. And the journey of creating this film is just as engaging as the movie itself. **Discussions include** How wr…

Now celebrating its 20th Anniversary, GHOST WORLD remains a uniquely non-formulaic blending of adolescent maturing & evolving friendships placed in a world of disillusionment. The film has remained a clever, underground favorite for the last two decades & continues to hit hard with audiences of all ages. As it verges on cult film status, join us in…

Often called the quintessential hangout movie, DAZED AND CONFUSED offered up a new type of film about teenage life. This timeless story served up the familiar truths of adolescence while encompassing the universal aimlessness of the time. Let’s cruise through how this fresh film spoke to multiple generations & launched careers, but was also not wit…

It’s our 3rd Anniversary! The massively exhilarating science-fiction thriller, THE TERMINATOR (1984), served as a launching pad for everyone involved with the production. Dive behind-the-scenes of this legendary ‘80s blockbuster & discover what makes it one of the most popular action films of all-time. Discussions include: The origin of & artistry …

A Special Journey Through the Evolution of Marijuana in Movies! Next Episode: Third Anniversary of DPP! THE TERMINATOR (1984) Rate, review & subscribe! Complete Episode Archive, Videos & Store: www.dontpushpausepodcast.com Facebook @dontpushpause Instagram @dontpushpausepodcast Twitter @dontpushpause Subscribe on YouTube, Don’t Push Pause Podcast E…

DEAD PRESIDENTS gave a voice to Vietnam veterans who experienced the atrocities of war, only to return home & find the struggle was not over. This intense coming of age journey continues to cut to the core, while being a uniquely realistic depiction of Black Americans during the post-war 1970s. ***Discussions include*** Capturing the Black experien…

A year of recording remotely prepared us for an epic battle of genre-bending proportions! Time to rediscover the creative genius behind the martial arts adventure, BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA! **Discussions** Reinventing the story’s origin, inspiration, uniqueness, significant rewrites, & John Carpenter’s influence; atypical heroes, martial arts in…

Deconstructing what makes THE FLY (1986) a renowned sci-fi classic with a truly transformative love story & one of best remakes of all time. *Discussions* The original short story, differences from the original ‘58 film, plus FLY sequels; the unimaginable search for a director/screenwriter; saving a turbulent production; intimate nature of the film…

We’re celebrating the 30th Anniversary of THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS & fleshing out what makes this film nothing short of brilliant. **Discussions include** Adaptation of the novel to screenplay; production evolution, casting lead roles & FBI involvement; revamping of a traditional hero story through a female perspective & unconventional cinematograp…

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 i…

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…

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…