Everything '80s

It all came from a dream... In the summer of 1986, a new movie hit theatres. It mixed science-fiction and adventure and when it came to computer-generated imagery; it was quite ahead of its time. This is a look back at Flight of the Navigator, a movie that many see as an underrated sci-fi gem, but had a big influence on the future of movie-making. It combined cutting-edge tech with practical effects and even featured a pretty recognizable voice... Because of some extremely tough competition, Flight of the Navigator wasn't a box office blockbuster but eventually found a big audience on home video. Today, we look back on the innovation, imagination, and making of an 80s classic. Compliance! The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if there was a show so significant it could put an end to war? This was the approach taken by Jim Henson when he laid the foundation for Fraggle Rock. Henson didn't want to create some ordinary show, but a program that showed us the importance of taking care of ourselves, our environment, and each other. Besides being colorful, musical, and fun--the new show might just change the world... What we got was one of the most unique kids' shows of all time. A show that quickly spread around the globe and changed how television was made. Not only was it beloved by kids, but Fraggle Rock also became cable TV pioneers. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you grew up during the 80s, you probably had a collection of VHS tapes. From new movie releases to your tapes with all your favorite TV shows or music videos, home video was a cornerstone of our entertainment. And all of that almost never happened... If things had gone differently, home recording would have been illegal and the VCR as we know it may have been banned for good. This is the story of the Betamax Case, which pitted the movie studios against Sony and the new machine the studios saw as violating copyright laws. It's the story that goes back to the early days of the VCR, back-and-forth legal decisions, and then a drawn-out case that went all the way to the Supreme Court. As 1984 began, the future of our home entertainment hung in the balance, but an unexpected witness came in to help save the day for the VCR... The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It may seem hard to believe, but as of the year of this recording, the album releases from 1984 are now forty years old. But these are no ordinary albums, as this is a year that gave us some of the most iconic--and important--albums ever made. Today we look back at 10 significant releases that not only changed the course of music but led to astonishing sales numbers worldwide. The Everything 80s Movie Club: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the summer of 2006, a young Calgary woman was on top of the world. She had a supportive family, amazing friends and a great job. But life as she knew it came to an abrupt stop in the middle of the night on August 6, 2006. In this episode, Global News senior crime reporter Nancy Hixt shares details of a violent attack- a story that’s every woman’s worst fear. www.calgarycrimestoppers.org - reference case # 06274598 https://newsroom.calgary.ca/sexual-assault-case-from-2006-has-new-lead/ Contact: Instagram: @nancy.hixt Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyHixtCrimeBeat/ Email: nancy.hixt@globalnews.ca Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where were you the night of November 21st, 1980? If you were like the majority of the public, you were huddled around your TV waiting to find out the answer to one of the biggest questions in television history: Who Shot J.R.? The 'Who Shot J.R.' episode of Dallas was so big that it spread well beyond North America, becoming part of the public discourse for countries around the world. This is a look back on one of the most astonishing TV events of the 20th century, and the massive speculation around one of the biggest cliffhangers ever. And when the big night finally came, the viewing audience hit numbers many didn't think was even possible... Bonus 1980s audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can one decade have so many different aesthetics associated with it? Well, this is the 1980s; an era when big, bright, and bold choices dominated our fashion. Today, we look back on the styles, clothing items, and individuals that helped create the look of the 80s. Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you know what follows the words, "I don't know..." it means you grew up with one of the most creative, bizarre, and beloved kids' shows of all time. You Can't Do That on Television started as a low-budget program in Ottawa, Canada, before being picked up by a newer, kids-only cable channel in the US: Nickelodeon. The show was different than anything they had previously aired, and not only was it instrumental in the channel's success, but it had a massive impact on pop culture still felt to this day. The Everything 80s Movie Club: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're three years into a new decade, and here comes the year that--when it comes to pop culture--is about to turn everything on its head... It's the year that gave us the biggest movie of the decade, the debut of some of the best TV shows ever, and some of the greatest albums and singles of the 80s. But if that wasn't enough, 1982 is also about to give us what may be the biggest album of all time... Welcome to Rewind and an all-new version of my look back at the music, movies, TV shows, tech, video games, and sports from a remarkable year: 1982. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, a computer was something only used by governments, corporations, or hobbyists. They didn't have any practical appeal to the average person. But that all changed going into the 1980s. Computers like the Apple 2 and the TRS-80 made some strong headway, but it was in 1981 when IBM helped to fully launch the personal computer revolution. This is the story of the IBM PC 5150: a machine for the masses. With a lower price point, and better usability, the concept of a PC in a home or small business finally made sense--and a new era in tech began... The Everything 80s Movie Club: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Two turntables and a microphone. That's all it took to change the world..." These were the words spoken in 2009 by Eminem as he inducted Run-DMC into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. It was a fitting tribute to the group from Hollis, Queens, that not only took hip-hop to new heights but changed the music industry--and pop culture--in the process. This is the story of Run-DMC, the group that crashed down walls, cut through floors, busted through ceilings, and knocked down doors... Support the show and get bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Valentine's Day, and what better way to celebrate than to look back on a beloved 1980s romantic drama: Dirty Dancing. Despite being a timeless hit, it's a miracle that Dirty Dancing ever reached theatres. Between shooting difficulties and real-life tension between its stars, this was the movie very few people believed in--and it was projected to go straight to video bins. But what happened next shocked everyone... Thanks to word-of-mouth, the film took off like wildfire and soon became a worldwide hit. The soundtrack dominated the charts, and the home video release smashed records. The low-budget movie that dozens of studios passed on was now a pop culture phenomenon... Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They couldn't all be hits... During an era that gave us some of the biggest shows in television history, there were others less fortunate. Because of all the big established shows, limited networks, and limited timeslots, there just wasn't room for everyone. This is a look back at 10 forgotten TV shows from the 80s; some of which were quite good, but for various reasons, just couldn't last. A half-alien/half-girl, an ancient character living in our modern world, and a few new Knight Rider alternatives, represent just some of those unique shows. Some of these forgotten shows are still remembered fondly, and a few introduced us to new performers who went on to become some of the biggest stars in television history... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What began as a brief segment during the third Muppet movie soon became one of the most beloved children's shows of the entire 1980s. The Muppet Babies was not only a uniquely creative show but one that took a different path than many of the other cartoons dominating the networks. With an assist from some Hollywood heavyweights, the Muppet Babies quickly became a hit--both critically, and ratings-wise. Loved by kids, and parents, this award-winning cartoon featured great music and some amazing voice talent. And in this episode, we may even hear from a real-life Muppet Baby... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine Star Wars, rock music, Disneyland, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Wookies? You get Halyx, a real-life, science-fiction rock band created by Disney for the summer of 1981. This is a look back on the unique, somewhat bizarre, but incredibly creative project that brought together some tremendous talent. The band was short-lived but remains a perfect snapshot of pop culture in the early 80s. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A hamburger is a pretty simple thing, and it's always been a huge part of fast food culture. But in the 80s, the humble burger found itself at the center of a multi, multi-billion dollar battle. This is a look back on the 1980s Burger Wars that pitted McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, and A&W in an all-out battle for our tastebuds, our loyalty, and our wallets. Little did these companies know how much they would shape the industry for decades to come--and even shape pop culture itself... -Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With its humble beginnings in the Bronx, Breaking quickly spread through the five boroughs of New York, across the country, and eventually, worldwide. This is the history of breaking and how it, and hip-hop, grew side-by-side to become global phenomenons. From beats to battles, it's a look at the unique art form, and the early performers, that took breaking from underground to the mainstream. -Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My Pet Monster came out of an interesting era. It was a time when there was a move away from video games and a return to more traditional toys like dolls and stuffed animals. Combine this with a focus on gross-out products and it set the stage for a pretty unique, but beloved toy and cartoon series. This is a look back on My Pet Monster, the brand that didn't take the traditional route as other 1980s toys, but still managed to carve out its own piece of 1980s pop culture nostalgia Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, that sure was a doozy... By the time 1981 came to a close, it seemed like we had experienced a bit of everything; astounding technological achievements, two near tragedies, and an event that captured the interest of the entire world. And when it came to young people, there was something new. Something that changed how we consumed media--and it also changed pop culture forever... This is an all-new look back on the movies, TV shows, music, tech, video games, and sports that made up a pretty astounding year. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Turn on the fireplace channel, grab a cup of 'nog, and settle in for a nice winter's podcast as we travel back to the holiday season during the 1980s. We'll look back on things like the Sears Wishbook, holiday movies, forgotten TV specials, and even the experience of heading to the mall to find that perfect gift. Then I turn the show over to you to hear from a few listeners about their favorite holiday traditions and memories while growing up in the 80s. It's a honey of a show, Clark... The Everything 80s Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Narrowing down the very best movies of the 1980s seems like a tall task--and why just nine of them? Well, these aren't my rambling musings but are the movies from the 80s that made the American Film Institute's Top 100 List. So which 1980s movies made the cut and appear on this prestigious list? Some may seem obvious, some may surprise you, and some end up in the conversation for the greatest of all time. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is there a more definitive 1980s TV show than Miami Vice? The drama starring Don Johnson and Phillip Michael Thomas is not only one of the most notable shows of the entire 1980s--but one of the most influential. Today we look back on the show that not only had a massive impact on pop culture but forever changed the way that TV was made. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you stand out during a decade that gave us some of the most iconic toy brands and franchises of all time? Especially considering that some of those franchises continue to appear in our movie theatres to this day. This was the challenge for the Mobile Armored Strike Kommand, or M.A.S.K., a toy and cartoon series that had to balance being familiar, but still unique. Today we look back on the toyline from Kenner that despite all the competition, still managed to carve out its own little piece of 1980s pop culture nostalgia. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It probably should have never happened. But as Muhammad Ali made his way to the ring on the night of December 11th, 1981, no one knew what to expect. A year prior, Ali faced off against Larry Holmes in a fight that was not only hard to watch but resulted in Ali's trainer stopping the fight. That should have been it--but Ali didn't want to go out like that. This led to the 'Drama in the Bahamas,' Muhammad Ali's very last professional fight. Today, we look back on how this event came to be, why no one in the U.S. would hold it, all the problems leading up to the event, and how The Greatest managed to surprise everyone. Bonus 1980s audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're checking out this podcast about the 1980s, there's also a good chance that the movies of Steven Spielberg probably had a major impact on you. Between directing, writing, and producing; Steven Spielberg was involved with 24 different movies throughout the 1980s. Many of those are not just some of the best films of the decade--but ever. Today, we look back on all of Steven Spielberg's work in the 80s, the joy and entertainment he brought millions, and how he forever influenced movie making. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The old days of air travel were quite risky…compared to today, the chances of your flight going down were far greater …every airport had kiosks and coin-operating vending machines where you could buy life insurance before you headed to the gate—you know, just in case you thought you weren’t going to make it to your final destination… 1977 was one of the worst years for accidents in aviation history…in addition to several violent hijackings every month—sometimes with fatal results—There were also passenger plane crashes with great loss of life…including the worst aviation disaster of all time when two 747s planes collided on a runway in the Canary Islands, killing 583 people. Frank Sinatra’s mother, the Prime Minister of Yugoslavia, and all but one member of the University of Evansville basketball team died in crashes… But then there were the events of October 20, 1977, when a rickety chartered plane went down in a swamp in Mississippi…on board were members of Lynyrd Skynyrd…six of the 24 passengers died, including singer Ronnie Van Zandt, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick…both pilots also died… What happened? Have I got a story for you... Like what you hear? You can find and follow Uncharted: Crime and Mayhem in the Music Industry on your favourite podcast app or by clicking here: https://link.chtbl.com/uncharted-rssdrop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hold on, something doesn't seem right here... Did you have that same reaction back in 1988 the first time you got to play Super Mario Brothers 2? For a new generation familiar with the original Mario Brothers game for the NES, the follow-up felt like quite a departure. But there was a reason for this, and today, we look back on the story behind the creation of Super Mario Bros. 2. An early version of Super Mario 2 was created, then abandoned, and it was a pre-existing Japanese game that allowed for its North American release. Time restraints, computer chip shortages, and high expectations--it was the game that had everything going against it... Support the show and get bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s 1986 and Michael Morrison is offered the opportunity of a lifetime. A chance to leave his life of poverty in Newark and start afresh. It’s a job offer he can’t afford to refuse. Michael has no idea what this new job has in store. But he soon realizes: he’s just joined ‘the biggest gang in America’. Join Seren Jones to hear Michael’s story and find out what it means to be both Black and Blue. Want to hear more? You can follow along on your favourite podcast app here: https://link.chtbl.com/blackandblue-rssdrop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever dreamt about traveling back in time? Well, I got to experience that when I visited one of the last fully functioning video rental stores--and you're coming along for the trip. Today, I'm in Southwestern Ontario to visit Jumbo Video, a video store that's continued to run since the late 80s. We meet the owners who have been there since day one, learn more about the days when video rental was white-hot, and find out what video rental looks like in our modern age. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Spooky Season, and what better way to pay tribute to it than to look back on the definitive 1980s horror movie franchise: Friday the 13th. Freddy and Michael Myers were big in the 1980s, but when it came to dominating the silver screen: it was all about Jason. Today, we look back on the movies that, except for two years, had a new release for every other year in the 80s. It's a look back on how these movies came together, why Jason wore a hockey mask, and the legacy of this iconic franchise. The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, that sure escalated quickly... What started out as a new marketing campaign to sell more dried fruit, quickly grew into a bona fide pop culture phenomenon. This is the story of The California Raisins, the Claymation hit from the 80s that not only sold a lot of raisins but became a moneymaking sensation in the process. Toys, albums, and TV specials: let's look back at how The California Raisins quickly cemented themselves as a huge part of the 1980s. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some were epic. Others were devastating. But they were all unforgettable... There is no better way to sum up the big sporting moments of the 1980s. Today we look back on ten of the biggest moments in sports that best define the decade. Joy, upsets, and heartbreak; in the 80s we witnessed moments that transcended sports. From basketball and hockey to soccer, tennis, baseball--and numerous Olympic games--the 1980s gave us sporting memories to last a lifetime. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We as parents get so little time to ourselves. So if you know when vacationing with kids actually becomes a relaxing vacation… please let us know. In this episode we discuss the literal ups and downs of traveling with kids. You can find and listen to this podcast wherever you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/badparents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You may have thought that 8-track faded away in the 70s along with disco and bell bottoms. But in actuality, 8-track continued into the 80s—and well into the 80s, lasting much longer than many people realize. This is the story of the final days of 8-track, the music format that was able to hang in there because of cars, toys, and a certain record and tape club. Cassette tapes would eventually rule the landscape, but 8-track laid the groundwork, and this is a tale that includes Private Jets, Dick Clark, the Sears Wishbook, and even Vincent Price... Bonus 80s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine customer feedback cards, a phone hotline, and a free newsletter? You get Nintendo Power Magazine, the must-have companion to the NES. But this magazine did more than just help us beat Zelda 2. It also served as a strategic form of marketing to not only advertise upcoming games but also gather invaluable customer insights in the process. Today, it's the story of Nintendo Power Magazine, its origins, incredible success, and long-lasting legacy. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It should have been impossible... Based on the limits of broadcast and satellite technology in 1985, it was a miracle it even happened. But what took place on Saturday, July 13 was nothing short of astounding; a benefit concert featuring the biggest musical acts in the world, held in two countries, and beamed around the world. This is the story of Live Aid, the event that was both an organizational–and technological–wonder. It’s the event that created awareness of the famine in Ethiopia, gave us iconic imagery, and featured one of the most legendary performances in music history… Support the show & get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 1980s weren't exactly a golden age for Disney animated features. Maybe a new cartoon film based on a series of books could usher in an exciting new era of Disney animation. That film was The Black Cauldron; a movie that took a long time to make, cost a fortune, and created a lot of backlash. And it almost sunk Disney animation for good... Bonus 1980s audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Headbands, legwarmers, and spandex... In the 1980s, these things started to appear everywhere. It was a time when fitness, aerobics, and health clubs began to take center stage. Activities that used to be more niche--like aerobics and bodybuilding--quickly became mainstream. Today we look back on the fitness explosion of the 80s, the people (and celebrities) that helped make it popular, and the technology that allowed it to grow like wildfire. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 1980s gave us an explosion of new cartoon shows. But with so many new shows and characters, someone had to voice them all. It was even better if you could have the same person perform multiple voices. If you don't know the name Frank Welker--but grew up in the 80s--you've definitely heard his voice. This is a look back on the incredible career of the man who was the voice of the 80s, and is in more TV shows and movies than you could even imagine... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If they were people, they'd officially be over the hill... Today we look back on 12 classic albums that are somehow forty years old now. These are the albums of 1983, a genuinely astonishing time for music. And this list is the epitome of a mixed bag; classic rock, pop, new wave, and multiple forms of heavy metal. it's a year that will go down in music history. 1983 is also the year that featured the debut releases of some of the biggest artists in history, along with a carryover from 1982 that continued to dominate the charts... Support the show & get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Which path will you choose? That was the question that faced millions of kids during the 1980s. The Choose Your Own Adventure books felt like part story/part game, but every time you picked one up: it was always different. This is a look back on the unique books, their phenomenal success, and some brilliant marketing that led to the sale of hundreds of millions of copies. And it all began with a bedtime story... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No one was safe... If the greatest player the game had ever seen could be traded, it meant every athlete in every sport could also be moved. For many in Canada, this was also a 'where were you when' moment. This is a look back at the summer of 1988 and the shocking National Hockey League trade that took Wayne Gretzky from the Edmonton Oilers to the Los Angeles Kings. It's the trade that shocked a city--and a country--and forever changed the landscape of not only professional hockey but the entire sporting world... Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It seemed like a 'whatever could go wrong, did go wrong' situation... as passengers in Montreal boarded their plane on July 23rd, 1983, little did they know they were about to become part of one of the most astonishing events in aviation history. This is a look back on Air Canada Flight 143, a remarkable flight that combined mathematical errors, heroic bravery, and many 'what if?' scenarios... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was the sequel that was never meant to be... Coming off the phenomenal success of Back to the Future, there was no choice but to create a follow-up. This, however, presented a lot of problems but ultimately resulted in one of the greatest trilogies of all time. Welcome to a free sample of the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast found over at Patreon.com/80s. Today we look back at the movie that is both a sequel and a prequel, gave us a glimpse into the future, and did something quite unique going into the final installment. Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the 1970s finally came to a close, it was time for a brand new decade. Hopefully, this would be one full of hope, joy, prosperity, and technological advancements that would not only entertain us but make our lives easier. This is a look back on the year 1980 and all the big pop culture moments that took place; including the music, movies, TV shows, technology, and sports. But, there was still political unrest and this was a year that also featured the election of a man that would be a key figure in this new and transformative decade. Bonus 1980s Content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Return of the Jedi hit theatres in May 1983, there was a bittersweet feeling connected to it. Yes, there was enormous hype for the third and final installment in the Star Wars saga. But, as far as we knew it at the time, this was the very end of Star Wars. Let's look back on the movie that signified the end of one chapter but also marked the beginning of a whole new era... Special guest: Fred Kennedy Fred's Podcast: Mud 79: A Fan-Made Star Wars Story Twitter: @Fearless_Fred Instagram: @fearless_fred Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Entering the second half of the 80s, the PC was gaining prominence in our homes. But so too was an unwelcome guest... As homes and schools were being filled with IBMs and Commodore 64s, two brothers had created software that would take the world by storm--but in all the wrong ways. This is the story of the 'Brain' computer virus; a rude awakening to how vulnerable our technology really was. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This historical, true crime podcast hosted by Kru Williams from History Television's hit original series Deadman’s Curse: The Legend of the Lost Gold investigates the curse and legend surrounding the lost gold mine of Pitt Lake. On their quest they're joined by members of the Stó:lō and Katzie First Nations, historians and cultural experts of diverse backgrounds, as they sort fact from fiction and give Slumach a voice from the other side of the veil. You'll hear about how an Indigenous prospector, accused of murder set a curse on anyone who searched for his hidden gold just before he was hanged. Over a century later, a prospector, a mountaineer, a truth-seeker and a way-shower band together to walk the same paths of those who went looking for Slumach’s cursed gold and never returned find how a single bullet was the catalyst for a 150-year-old mystery. Click here to find it on your favourite podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In part 1 of this two-part series, we met the Ninja Turtles, their creators, and witnessed the launch of the comic book. At the end of part 1, we left off with the Ninja Turtles about to hit it big with the cartoon series. Today, we travel back to witness Turtlemania running wild... This is a look back on one of the biggest toy booms of all time and the rapid growth of one of the most successful franchises in pop culture history. And how do you follow up on all this amazing success? Maybe with a movie... Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the early 80s and two young artists are struggling to find their place in the world of comic books. But then, one night, everything would change forever... Welcome to part 1 of the history of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. In the first episode of a two-part series, we'll travel back to revisit the origins of the comic book series, learn about the creators, and witness the rapid rise of TMNT. But as quickly as they conquered comic store shelves--they would soon conquer the small screen... Bonus 80s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A brand new decade was underway--but it began with a truly catastrophic event. Today, we travel back to May 1980 and the devastating eruption that took place in the Pacific Northwest. From a geological standpoint, it was a historic eruption that decimated the area and displayed the incredible power of nature. But, if not for some scientists, could have been much deadlier... Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a handful of TV shows that perfectly represent the 1980s--and right at the top of the list is The A-Team. What began as a way to get NBC out of third place quickly became a ratings powerhouse, a merchandising juggernaut, and pop culture phenomenon. This is a look back on the show that no one believed in at first, but, based around a larger-than-life character, would go on to hold its own against some of the biggest shows of the decade. Bonus 1980s content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you take Chuck E. Cheese, Atari, Disney, and Lord of the Rings? You get one of the defining--and best-selling--toys of the 1980s: Teddy Ruxpin. This is a look back on the iconic toy that was so much more than a talking bear. It's a tale of technological advancement; a pioneering company making a huge splash; and a retail and media impact that we hadn't really ever seen before. Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amazing movies? Check. Epic music? Check. Incredible TV shows, sports, and new technology? Check, check, and check. Today, we look back on what truly was a stand-out year for all things pop culture: 1988. Jump in the Deloreon and travel back with me 35 years to when a gallon of gas was under a dollar; we had TWO Olympic games; and our radios, TVs, and movie theatres were filled with some of the best entertainment the decade had to offer. -The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While transforming robots and singing hologram cartoons were being created in the U.S., something interesting was happening in Canada. It was a new cartoon, based on some previous specials, but made in a more unique way than other cartoons at the time. The result was The Raccoons, a beloved 1980s series that stood out in an era of loud, flashing, and often violent cartoon shows. The Raccoons was also unique in that it--unlike its peers--wasn't created as a 22-minute commercial to sell toys. This is a look back on the heartwarming series that became a true worldwide hit. -Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As kids rushed into movie theatres in the summer of 1986, they had no idea what they were walking into. Excited to see their favorite cartoon on the big screen, an entire generation was about to experience what’s been called “the great toy massacre of 1986.” This is a look back on The Transformers: The Movie, a film that shocked and horrified legions of kids. Created purely for commercial reasons, this movie caught toy executives completely off guard as it revealed an unanticipated loyalty to a brand and characters. -Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There really was nothing like it... Walking into a video store in the 1980s was like entering a whole new world of entertainment possibilities. And during the 80s, we lived through a true golden age of video rental. This is a look back on a rapidly changing era of technology and pop culture; it's a look back at the machine and the stores that changed the way we consume entertainment to this day; and it's also a look at how both the VCR and the video store as we know them almost never happened... -Get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't call it a comeback... Even though the sitcom had lost some steam at the start of the 1980s, in the second half of the decade, they were back--and better than ever. Join me as I take a quick look at the origin of the sitcom, and how--thanks to the 80s--they changed network television forever. And, today, I'm counting down ten of the best sitcoms the 80s had to offer. -Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At least they still had Barbie… But when the excitement for He-Man started to cool off, toy giant Mattel needed something to fill the void. They needed something modern, interactive, and able to take advantage of new toy technology. Enter Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future. Combined with a TV program of the same name, the innovative toys let you fire "lasers" at the show while getting hit in return. It was like Duck Hunt meets RoboCop; a futuristic dream come true. Sounds like the coolest thing ever, and the perfect new toy franchise–but a world of controversy soon emerged… -Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bread, sauce, and cheese. That’s all pizza really is, but how did the simple food you love become the focus of a massive, multi-billion-dollar battle? Today, we journey back to the Pizza Wars of the 80s, when Pizza Hut, Little Ceasars, and Dominos took every measure possible to capture our taste buds (with a few others joining the pizza party…)  Advertising budgets skyrocketed, media reach was more substantial than ever before, and competition was high. So let’s look back at a slice of history when the 80s became a battleground with every company trying to grab the biggest piece of the pie. -Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are certain defining images that represent the entire 1980s--and right at the top of that list is ALF. With origins beginning in 1984, this is a look back on the beloved character, its creator, and the show that became a true pop culture phenomenon. The story of ALF has a bit of everything; connections to the Simpsons and Seinfeld; legal changes to network TV; some of the greatest merchandising the decade would ever see--and genuine nostalgia. -Bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It seemed like any other ordinary presidential appearance, but when Ronald Reagan left the Washington Hilton on March 30th, 1981, the world almost drastically changed forever in just 1.7 seconds.  This is a look back on a moment of genuine heroism, the bizarre motive behind the assassination attempt on the President, and how one inch could have made this an entirely different story... -The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine Transformers, Marvel, MTV, and a LOT of neon? You get Jem and the Holograms; a defining 1980s toy, cartoon, and franchise.  When it debuted in 1985, the cartoon show caught on quickly, as did the subsequent toy line. And none of this was by accident. Built on the back of already successful properties like G.I. Joe, and Transformers, Jem and the Holograms followed the formula, but with its own unique twist. So journey back with me to a time of glitter, neon, rock music, and some very stealthy marketing… -Get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It felt like it happened overnight... we went from just a few TV channels to a seemingly endless amount. So, what exactly led to the rapid growth of cable television in the 1980s and a time when our TVs changed forever? HBO and Showtime set the stage and as we entered the 80s, new channels like Nickelodeon, The Disney Channel, ESPN, and CNN quickly became popular. The cable revolution of the 80s gave us many beloved children's shows, technological advancements, and some good ol' government deregulations. So don't touch that dial; this is a story that includes The Shining, green slime, and even the Soviet Union... Support the show: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you remember where you were on the night of February 28th, 1983? If you had access to a TV, there’s a pretty good chance you had it tuned to CBS. This was the night of the series finale of M*A*S*H and a landmark moment in the history of television. What happened that night from a viewership standpoint had never been seen before–or since. This is a look back on the single episode that became a cultural touchpoint, a watershed moment in television, and achieved rating numbers never thought possible. -Support the show and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've all grown up with stories and fairytales filled with heroes, dragons, and monsters. And then there are giants. Giants seem to be a thing of myth, but if you grew up in the 1980s, you saw one of these myths come to life: Andre the Giant. This is a look back on the remarkable life of the "8th Wonder of the World" and how he forever changed the landscape of professional wrestling. But this isn't just a wrestling story; it's also how Andre Roussimoff became a massive part of 1980s pop culture including an appearance in one of the most beloved movies ever... -Support the show and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It just wasn’t meant to be… LaserVision–or LaserDisc as we know it–was the third competitor in the home video format war during the 80s. But despite being a technological marvel with advanced picture and sound, LaserDisc just couldn't compete with VHS and Beta during the golden age of video. Today we look back on a pioneering form of video technology--with roots going all the way back to the 1950s--that is actually still with us to this day... -Join Patreon and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you grew up in the 80s, the newspaper comics may have been a big part of your daily routine. And one of the most beloved ones ever debuted on November 18th, 1985: Calvin and Hobbes. But the story of Calvin and Hobbes was much more than just a comic strip; it was an insightful storytelling masterclass that seamlessly incorporated many philosophical ideas. It's also a lesson in never compromising, as its creator, Bill Watterson, refused to give in to corporate interests. -Support the show and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine two of the greatest filmmakers in history, Disney, and the King of Pop? You get Captain EO; a unique short film and a remarkable collaboration in filmmaking and technology. Released in 1986, Captain EO was part film, part music video, part theme park attraction, and part commercial. This was a time when the media landscape was changing, and Disney was looking for a way to become more relevant and attract a New Generation... -Support the show and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many TV shows and movies that perfectly embody the 1980s--and right at the top of that list is Knight Rider. Knight Rider is the story of Michael Knight and his crime-fighting automotive assistant: KITT. The premise was simple: What would a modern version of the Lone Ranger look like with a car instead of a horse? Combine that with some other sci-fi elements--and one of the coolest cars of all time--and you have a show that was a worldwide hit and a merchandising powerhouse. This is a look back on one of the most beloved shows of the 80s: Knight Rider. -Support the show and get access to bonus audio content including the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Close your eyes and picture what the 1980s looked like. What do you see? When you get past the giant perms and shoulder pads, what does the aesthetic look like? You may picture bright colors, geometric shapes, and a lot of bold designs. Just look at the logo for this podcast and you'll get an idea of what I'm referring to. This was a distinctive style known as the Memphis Design. It was created by the Memphis Group; an Italian art collective that may be the most important 1980s group you've never heard of, as the 80s as you recognize it wouldn't have happened without them. Support the show and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you grew up in the 80s, it was hard not to be aware of Max Headroom. From TV to magazines and billboards; he was everywhere. But this robotic, artificial intelligence character was much more than just New Coke commercials. Max Headroom began with a movie and TV show and had an entire backstory and mythology--a mythology that warned us about the very world we find ourselves in today... --Support the show and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're deep into the 1980s, and our world seems to be changing by the minute. Besides the usual political strife, we continue to experience Cold War tension and a crazy economy. But while all this is going on, we get one of the best years of the entire decade--and 20th century--for pop culture. Not only is there an endless amount of timeless movies, but the release of some truly iconic music and the introduction of some TV shows that would change pop culture as we knew it. So gather round as I take you back to the year that had a bit of everything: 1987. -Support the show and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast at Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a fierce sporting rivalry between the East and West and set it during the height of the Cold War? You have a ticking time bomb ready to explode. And that's exactly what happened in 1987 at the World Junior Hockey Championship. Canada was playing the Soviet Union, and with six minutes left in the second period--all hell broke loose. But was this an intentional act by the Soviets to disqualify Canada and cost them the gold medal? This is a look back on the night the lights went out in the town of Piestany. -Support the show on Patreon and get access to The Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's easy to look back at 1980s creations as old-fashioned and quaint, but this was a time of remarkable progress. Some of these innovations still seem advanced even by today's standards. Welcome to rewind and an all-new version of one of my favorite 1980s topics: the groundbreaking inventions and innovations. In this episode, I cover some inventions that you may not realize come from the 1980s including astounding new technology, advanced medical breakthroughs, and even changes to the way we consumed entertainment. And they all happened in the 80s... Support the show and get access to bonus audio content like the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Everything 80s Holiday Special! (featuring less Life Day and Gormaanda... ) I'm here in my ugliest Christmas sweater with the fireplace channel roaring in the background as we travel back in time to the holiday season during the 80s. In this special, we look at a modern holiday movie that captures the essence of the 80s, a certain house from a beloved Christmas classic, then dive into some of the best-selling Christmas albums and singles from the decade--including one of the most bizarre albums of all time. So grab some cocoa and settle in for a warm and cozy 1980s Christmas. Support the show and get access to bonus audio content at Patreon.com/80s Artwork: Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yule logs, candy canes, and our favorite films; it's the holidays and that means movie-watching time. Regardless of how many new holiday movies come out each year, we always resort to our favourites--and Eighties options are some of the very best. Even if you've seen them a Ridiculous number of times, it Doesn't matter as these movies have become part of our holiday tradition. Relax, grab some form of nog, and Dive back into the 80s with me as I look at ten of the best holiday favourites of the decade. Artwork by Janet Cordahi Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apple/Android, Nintendo/Sega, Xbox/Playstation; over the years there have been several format wars, but today, we look back on the one battle to rule them all: VHS vs Beta. Going into the 80s, Sony thought Betamax should be the industry standard. JVC believed they had a superior (and more consumer-friendly) version with VHS, and thus commenced a billion-dollar battle between two formats to take control of the machine that forever changed the way we consumed media. Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're listening to this episode the day it's released, it marks 50 years to the day when the world first met Atari. From there, the groundbreaking company forever changed what home video games could be. Today, I cover the history of the iconic company, how they made the home video game market a billion-dollar industry, and take a deep dive into some of the most beloved games. We also look at how classic Atari games are being preserved for future generations. This is a story that includes Star Wars, Apple Computers, E.T., and even dog food (you'll see how...). So press play, and journey back with me to the golden age of video games! Support the show and get access to bonus audio content like the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the hundredth anniversary of Coca-Cola, the iconic beverage company decided to shake things up. And boy did they ever. They shook things up by taking away their classic cola and introducing a whole new one: New Coke. This is a look back on a decision that enraged the public, caused severe backlash, and forced the company to bring back the original formula--in less than three months. But was this their plan all along? Did they want us to appreciate and miss what we once had with original Coke? Listen up to learn the story of one of the biggest brand debacles of all time... Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a good chance you're reading this on your phone right now as our devices obviously provide us with portable entertainment. But before cell phones, iPods, and MP3 players, there was one device that forever changed the way we consumed music: The Walkman. For the first time ever, the Walkman allowed us to take our personal music anywhere we went. It became a symbolic image of the 80s, sold hundreds of millions of units, and today, we look back at one of the most iconic devices ever made.  Support the show and get access to bonus audio content over at Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's hard to imagine, but there was a time when video games were dying. It was 1983, and because of the Great Video Game crash, many companies wanted to distance themselves from video games. Enter a nearly 100-year-old company from Japan. Nintendo would not only rescue the video game industry but take it to heights never thought imaginable. So ready player one, press play and let's journey back to a brand new age of video games. Support the show and get access to bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was a classic battle between good and evil and it gave us one of the greatest toys of all time. Today, we journey back to revisit the history of the iconic Transformers. From their early days in Japan to dominating TVs and toy shelves in North America, this is another defining 1980s toys franchise that was also a masterclass in marketing. So hit play and let's roll out! Support the show and get bonus audio content at Patreon.com/80s Artwork by Janet Cordahi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Everything 80s Halloween Spooktacular! Today, we journey back to the 80s to learn the origins of Trick-or-treating, look at what the most popular Halloween costumes were for each year, and discover the most popular candy of the decade. Then, we take a quick look at how many iconic horror films came out in the 1980s and finish with the most popular PG Halloween movies based on each U.S. state. So grab some cider, light the pumpkin, and hit play as we journey back to Halloween in the 80s. Support the show and get bonus audio content like the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you were a kid in the 80s, you were probably blissfully unaware of what was happening with the tumultuous economy. But this crazy financial world created the 80s as we know it. This is really a story in three parts: It starts low, soars to dizzying heights, only to come crashing back down. It was the time of Reaganomics, recession, deficits, vast wealth, and one of the darkest days in the history of Wall Street. The economy of the 1980s gave us things like the Yuppie, Strawberry Shortcake, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, G.I. Joe, and many of the defining images of the decade. Support the show on Patreon.com/80s and get access to bonus audio content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you combine a German fashion doll, lightsabers, and an energy crisis? You get G.I. Joe, of course! This is a look back on a toy that's not only one of the most successful in history but also a masterclass in marketing. The story of G.I. Joe goes all the way back to 1955, and over the decades, redefined how toys could be advertised. Despite marketing restrictions in the 80s, Hasbro still created an incredible demand for a dead toy line. Then, they took advantage of the lifting of advertising regulations, to create the blueprint for how to successfully market a toy franchise. So hit play and let's head back to when after-school cartoons were sacred and a resurrected toy line captured our imaginations. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where were you in '82? If you're old enough to remember October 1982, you may recall the widespread panic of the Tylenol Murders. In Chicago, seven people were now dead after consuming poisoned Tylenol. How did this happen? How much more was out there? How safe were any of our everyday products? This episode is part true crime story, but as much about how the news media could spread fear quicker than ever before. It's also about a public relations nightmare, navigating a crisis, the rapid safety changes to product packaging; even trick-or-treating getting canceled. So hit play, and let's journey back to the fall of 1982. *This episode contains content that some listeners may find disturbing Support the show and get bonus audio content over at Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your head hurting, too? I'm having trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that these 15 incredible albums are now over the hill. Today, we head back to the year 1982 which may be one of the most astounding years for music ever. 1982 gave us not only some of the best albums of the 80s--but in music history. It's a year that combined classic rock, pop, new wave, heavy metal, folk, and a new musical art form that would soon take the world by storm. 1982 was also unique as it was the only year when all four physical music formats existed at the same time. Will any of your favorites make the list? Press play to find out! Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you grew up in the 1980s, you know how sacred Saturday morning cartoons were. But as we got older, they faded away, and our interests changed. Would anything be able to fill the void of that beloved TV-watching ritual? Enter TGIF on the ABC network. Though it may feel more like a 90s institution, TGIF began in the late 80s with roots going all the way back to 1985. This episode looks back at the origins of the beloved Friday night lineup, the importance of following a formula, the real meaning behind TGIF, and the importance of branding specific nights. Ultimately, this is a story about the power of our beloved routines, traditions, and the people we share them with. If you want to support the show and get bonus audio content, head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter what our feelings are about the Royal Family, we've been living through historical times. And, for the Royals, there may be no era more significant than the 1980s. This was a decade where--thanks to the growth of media, cable, and networks--awareness of their every move was at an all-time high. The 1980s gave us two royal weddings, four royal births, multiple threats to the Queen, and a humorous public relations disaster. This is also a time when we began to see cracks in the facade of what was supposed to be a "perfect family." And, in the 1980s, the world would meet a young nursery school assistant who would soon become the most famous human being on earth. Support the show and get bonus audio content: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What are your memories of 1986? Depending on your age, they may be quite vivid. Or you may only remember bits and pieces. But how do you sum up a year that had many amazing moments, but also some terrible setbacks? If you had to describe the year 1986, it may be one step forward, two steps back. Today, we look back on all the great movies, TV shows, technology, sports, and music that 1986 gave us--and it sure was a humdinger. But, unfortunately, this was the year that contained two of the worst disasters of the decade. And in between those, was a seminal moment that made all of us look up... If you're in a position to support the show--and want bonus content--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you grew up in the 80s or not, MTV has probably impacted you at some point. Even though the all-music channel debuted way back in 1981, it continues to influence pop culture to this day. This is a look back on a risky idea that went on to define the entire 1980s and changed the way we consume music. In this episode, we'll look back at the origins of MTV (that involves New Zealand and The Monkees), the immediate impact it made, the rise of giant stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson, and the controversies that have been a part of the channel since it first launched. If you're interested in supporting the show, you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What stores do you remember best from your childhood? If you're Canadian, one such store may be Zellers--which looks to be making a comeback--but you no doubt have your own favorites. However, this episode is about so much more than a classic Canadian store; it's about how many of our retail favorites are no longer with us. It's about the changing retail landscape that is drastically different than the way we remember it. This show is a look back on the stores that made us, the rise and fall of mall culture, and the life-long power of brands. Ultimately, this episode is about how powerful nostalgia is, and why giant corporations continue to bank on its undeniable impact. If you want to support this show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can head over to Patreon.com/80s to learn more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you old enough to remember Halley's Comet? If you are, I'm sure you remember what a big deal its return was in 1986. For kids of the 80s, it was astounding to be able to see something that last appeared in 1910. And if you were of a certain age, there's a chance you'll get to see it again, as Halley's Comet will make its return in 2061. But the story of Halley's Comet is about much more than just a comet. This was a look at ourselves and the astonishing progress we had made by the mid--80s. Compared to 1910, 1986 was like living in a future no one could have predicted. Halley's Comet marked our progress, our technological advancements, but also, our setbacks, as its return would be sandwiched right between two of the worst disasters of the 20th Century.  If you're interested in supporting this show--and getting access to more content--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to find out more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's your favorite video game ever? Quite often, they're the beloved games from our childhood. If you grew up in the 1980s, some of the classics probably come to mind. The 80s was a golden age of video games, and it gave us some of the most iconic--and important--video games ever created. The advancement in video games from 1980 to 1989 was truly night and day. The games at the end of the decade were virtually unrecognizable compared to those from the beginning. But it's sometimes those simple games that have stayed with us.  So, ready player 1, because In this episode, I'm counting down the ten best video games of the 1980s.  If you want to support the show--and get access to the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast--you can check out Patreon.com/80s to find out all about it.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does a superhero look like to you? Your image may come from the pages of a comic book or a movie screen. But what if there was a real-life superhero that existed among us? That's what Terry Fox was. If this is the first time you're hearing this name, this is a look back at a person who, in 1980, would run across Canada on one leg to raise money and awareness for cancer research. This is the astonishing story of not only a mind-boggling physical feat but a genuine hero in every sense of the word.  You can learn more about the Terry Fox Foundation by visiting: Terryfox.org If you're interested in supporting this show, you can check out Patreon.com/80s to learn more.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On February 10th, 1976, the only banned episode of Sesame Street ever, was aired. This episode featured Margeret Hamilton reprising her role as the iconic Wicked Witch of the West. The episode created such a backlash that Sesame Street and the Children's Television Workshop were forced to pull the episode. Going into the 80s and 90s, the legend of this episode began to grow, and it would become one of the most famous pieces of lost media in history. For nearly half a century, it remained locked away until just recently when it was leaked online. This is a look back on that infamous episode, and the character that still freaked out children a good forty years after the Wizard of Oz was first released.  Support the show: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 1980s gave rise to the summer blockbuster. Before then, the summer wasn't seen as an effective time to release movies. That definitely changed, and this was mainly thanks to Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. But which summer had the best movies? In this look back at one of my favorite episodes ever, I rank every 1980s summer to see which one was the very best. How does 1985 compare to the juggernaut that was 1989? Which summer was the real dark horse with a ton of classic offerings? Which summer is maybe not as good as we remember? The 1980s changed summer movies forever, and the effects are still being felt to this day.  If you want some more 1980s movie content, you can check out the Everything 80s Movie Review Podcast over at Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 1980s ushered in a new era of cartoons, toys, and action figures the likes we had never seen before. But what made this era so different? And why did we love the toys that we did? What makes for a good toy? Is it functionality? Backstory? Interaction? Marketing? Or the fact our friends had them? This is also a look at the government deregulation, trade embargos, capitalism, and even war that had a major influence on one of the biggest eras of toys ever.  Special Guest: Dan Larson from Toy Galaxy  Support the Show: Patreon.com/80s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices