Matinee Heroes

WILLOW A young farmer is thrust into an epic quest when he’s tasked with protecting a magical child from an evil queen. Along the way, he’s joined by a roguish swordsman, fierce allies, and a touch of sorcery. Together, they face dark forces in a battle where destiny hangs in the balance. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Paul Hitchcock talk about a young Warwick Davis, fantasy in the 80s, the reputation of reshoots and the movie “Willow” on this week’s Matinee Heroes Show Notes 1:04 Craig, Elisabeth and Paul talk about reshoots. 11:44 Craig, Elisabeth and Paul discuss "Willow" 55:56 Recasting 1:26:10 Double Fea...

LADYHAWKE After escaping a dungeon, young thief Phillipe Gaston crosses paths with Capt. Navarre, a man bound by a strange curse. He and his beloved, Lady Isabeau, have been doomed by the wicked Bishop of Aquila to never be together except at twilight. With Gaston’s help, they set out on a perilous mission to overthrow the Bishop and shatter the enchantment. Craig and Elisabeth are joined by birthday boy Alan to talk about being 56, a Comicpalooza recap, horrible scores and the movie “Ladyhawke’ on this week’s Matinee Birthday! Show Notes 1:17 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about Comicpalooza and turning...

Recorded live at Horrorthon 2018, this episode of CONversations with Craig features a captivating, insightful, and often humorous conversation with legendary horror filmmaker Mick Garris. From adapting Stephen King’s novels into iconic miniseries like The Stand and The Shining, to creating the influential Post Mortem podcast, Garris shares compelling behind-the-scenes stories from his illustrious career. Whether he's revealing secrets about working with Anthony Perkins on Psycho IV or sharing his approach to storytelling, Garris delivers wisdom, wit, and an authentic passion for horror. King's Collaborator: Garris dives deep into his frequent collaborations with Stephen King, discussing why their creative partnership wo...

EVER AFTER After her father’s death, Danielle is forced into servitude by her cruel stepmother. While her stepsisters vie for status, Danielle toils in silence—until she meets the charming Prince Henry. Their connection sparks a love that defies class and expectation. Craig and Elisabeth talk about 90’s feminism, fairy tales, grounded fantasy and the movie “Ever After” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:00 Craig and Elisabeth talk about fairy tales. 5:04 Craig and Elisabeth discuss "Ever After" 26:30 Recasting 46:34 Double Feature 49:41 Final Thoughts 55:26 A preview of next week's episode "Ladyhawke" Next week, we celebrate Alan's birthday with "Ladyhawke" https://www...

CONTAGION Beth Emhoff comes home from a business trip to Hong Kong feeling off, blaming it on jet lag. Two days later, she’s dead—and doctors can’t explain why. As others show the same symptoms, a global pandemic erupts. While doctors race to contain the deadly virus, society unravels and a rogue blogger fuels mass paranoia. Craig and Elisabeth talk about pandemics, COVID parallels, science as savior and the movie “Contagion” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:03 Craig and Elisabeth talk about their pandemic experiences. 10:55 Craig and Elisabeth discuss "Contagion" 45:44 Recasting 1:01:33 Double Feature 1:04:53 Final Thoughts 1:11:20 A preview of n...

THE IMPOSSIBLE Maria, Henry, and their three kids spend Christmas in Thailand, hoping for a warm, relaxing escape. Their dream vacation turns into a nightmare when a massive tsunami strikes without warning, wreaking havoc and tearing the family apart. In the aftermath, each of them must fight to survive and hold onto the hope of reuniting against all odds. Craig and Elisabeth talk about survival, the horrors of the ocean, looking out for one another and the movie “The Impossible” on this week’s Matinee Heroes. Show Notes 1:09 Craig and Elisabeth talk about disasters they've encountered. 10:20 Craig and Elisabeth discuss "The Im...

THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE On New Year’s Eve, the S.S. Poseidon is capsized by a massive tidal wave en route from New York to Greece. With the captain dead, a small group of survivors led by the determined Rev. Scott must navigate the overturned ship from the ballroom to safety. Battling fire, flooding, and crumbling wreckage, they fight for survival in a race against time. Craig and Elisabeth talk about cruise ships, helping yourself vs helping others, disasters they’ve lived through and the movie “The Poseidon Adventure” on this week’s Matinee Heroes!! Show Notes 1:08 Craig and Elisabeth talk about...

Recorded live at the Fayetteville Comic Show, this episode of CONversations with Craig features a raw, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation with actor C. Thomas Howell. From his early days as a child stunt rider to breakout roles in E.T. and The Outsiders, Howell shares stories from a career that spans Hollywood classics, cult thrillers, and gritty television drama. Whether he’s recalling a tense lunch with Rutger Hauer or reflecting on what it means to stay authentic in an industry built on illusion, Howell brings humor, humility, and a cowboy’s clarity to the stage. The Spielberg Spark: A ne...

This month’s episode of Matinee Heroes is a special presentation years in the making. We’re not honoring heroes this time—we’re saluting the cinematic chaos agents, the scene-stealing thorns in every protagonist’s side. That’s right: it’s the long-awaited William Atherton Asshole Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Co-host Craig Price is joined by Elizabeth Rapp and Derek McCaw for a red-carpet roast of honor as they induct the inaugural trio of actors: William Atherton – the original smarmy authority from Ghostbusters and Die Hard Ben Mendelsohn – the slick bureaucrat from Rogue One and Ready Player One Clancy Brown – tow...

IN MEMORIAM: REBEKAH DEL RIO 1967-2025 On June 25th, Rebekah Del Rio passed away. You might not know the name right away, but if you’ve seen Mulholland Drive or Twin Peaks: The Return on Showtime, you’ve definitely heard her voice. It’s haunting, unforgettable. I met Rebekah back in 2020 at the Fayetteville Comic Show during a Twin Peaks reunion, which is part of the panel you’re about to hear. She was all over social media at the time. I actually first saw her at the airport, livestreaming to her followers on this jewel-covered phone. She had such a big, l...

THE FRENCH CONNECTION Two NYPD detectives working in the Narcotics Bureau uncover a heroin smuggling operation with ties to Marseilles, France. What begins as routine surveillance quickly spirals into a dangerous international pursuit. Despite their best efforts, tracking down the smugglers and bringing their elusive ringleaders to justice becomes a maddening game of cat and mouse. Craig and Elisabeth end June Hackman month talking about dirty cops, blind snipers, 1970s New York and the movie “The French Connection” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 0:51 Craig and Elisabeth talk about recent job interviews and their favorite Gene Hackman movies. 7:00 Craig...

CRIMSON TIDE After the Cold War, a rogue Russian republic with nukes threatens global security. Captain Frank Ramsey brings on a sharp but untested officer—Lieutenant Commander Ron Hunter,  —to join him aboard the USS Alabama. When conflicting orders come in and Ramsey pushes for a strike, Hunter fears they could start a nuclear war, setting off a tense standoff that could decide the fate of the world. Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about personal interpretation, celebrating Gene Hackman, the confusion of war and the movie “Crimson Tide” on this week’s Matinee Heroes!! Show Notes 1:04 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan continue Ju...

THE BIRDCAGE Young engaged couple Val and Barbara bring their wildly different families together for one tense dinner. To win over Barbara’s ultra-conservative father, Val’s gay, club-owning dad Armand hides his drag queen partner Albert and pretends to embody straight-laced American values. But as the evening unravels, keeping up appearances gets hilariously out of hand. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Liz Serna talk about they gay 90’s, despicable children, the sexiness of Christine Baranski and the movie “The Birdcage” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 0:58 Craig, Elisabeth and Liz Serna continue June Hackman month by discovering which Gene Hackman...

THE CONVERSATION A meticulous surveillance expert begins to unravel when a routine wiretap reveals a conversation he doesn’t fully understand—but can’t ignore. As his paranoia grows, he’s forced to question what’s real, what’s hidden, and whether he’s complicit in something far darker than he imagined. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Brendan Agnew talk about paranoia, Christmas cookies, clogged toilets and the movie “The Conversation” on this week’s Matinee Heroes!! Show Notes 0:51 Craig, Elisabeth and Brendan Agnew introduce June Hackman month by discovering which Gene Hackman movies are Brendan's favorites. 11:38 Craig, Elisabeth and Brendan discuss "The Convers...

Recorded live at EmpireCon 2019 in Los Angeles, this episode of Conversations with Craig lifts the curtain on the unsung crew who brought the original Star Wars trilogy to life—Jawas, model-makers, second-unit directors, and yes, Yoda’s actual right hand. From childhood desert shoots to Harrison Ford with a saw, this panel had it all. Jawa Justice League: Three OG Jawas—Tim Donaldson, Andrea Wickman, and Fraser Diamond—recall what it was really like filming in Death Valley, sweating through robes, carrying disassembled droids, and surviving desert wildlife. Ford v. Falcon: Second-unit director Harley Cokeliss reveals how a frustrated Harrison Ford nea...

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON On the Viking Isle of Berk, young Hiccup defies tradition by befriending a dragon named Toothless. When an ancient threat endangers both dragons and humans, their bond becomes the key to survival. Together, they must rise above fear and forge a new path toward peace and leadership. Craig, Elisabeth and Guest Rob Ervin discuss parenting, the Minions, finding your place and the movie “How to Train your Dragon” on this week’s Matinee Heroes!!! Show Notes 1:05 Craig, Elisabeth and Rob talk about cartoons and The Minions. 19:32 Craig, Elisabeth and Rob discuss "How to Train Your Dragon...

IN MEMORIAM: LORETTA SWIT 1937-2025 Today, May 30th we lost past guest Loretta Swit. As is tradition. we’re replaying a episode we did on the original MASH that included my panel with Loretta and her cast mate Jamie Farr during last years Retro Expo on July 13th 2024.  I was fortunate enough to meet Lorreta twice.  The first time was in Tampa Bay and was fortunate enough to enjoy lunch with her, Jamie and  Jeff Maxwell.  The way she would dote on Jamie who is 90 himself and has limited mobility was so cute and at Retro Expo, she hustled down the enti...

KUNG FU PANDA Po may be the laziest, clumsiest panda in the Valley of Peace, but he secretly dreams of becoming a kung fu legend. When the villainous snow leopard Tai Lung threatens the Valley, Po is unexpectedly chosen to fulfill an ancient prophecy. Under Master Shifu’s training, he embarks on a high-kicking adventure to stop Tai Lung’s evil plans. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Riley Brown discuss fanboys, self-belief vs destiny, cryptic mentors and the movie “Kung Fu Panda” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 0:54 Craig, Elisabeth and Riley talk about cartoons and fandoms. 12:30 Craig, Elisabeth and Riley...

AKIRA In the ruins of Neo-Tokyo, a secret military experiment unravels when a psychic child escapes confinement. His breakout pulls a rebellious biker gang into a deadly conspiracy of government control and psychic warfare. One gang member, transformed by power and rage, wages a brutal vendetta against the world that once mocked his weakness. Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about anime, Louis Anderson, films to watch high and the movie “Akira” on this week’s Matinee heroes! Show Notes 1:07 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about the cartoons Alan grew up watching. 6:14 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan discuss "Akira" 32:46 Recasting 59:04 Double Feature 1:06:41 Final...

FANTASTIC MR. FOX After years of playing it safe, Mr. Fox breaks a promise to his wife and returns to his wild ways, stealing from the ruthless farmers Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. His actions put his family and their animal friends in danger, forcing them to hide deep underground. Now, Mr. Fox must use all his cleverness to outsmart the farmers and save his community. Craig and Elisabeth are joined by Movies that Make Us hosts Tracy Mangum and Jake Dietz to discuss quirkiness, Wes Anderson, sex shops and “Fantastic Mr. Fox” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:04 Craig...

Recorded live at EmpireCon 2019 in Los Angeles, this episode of Conversations with Craig dives deep into the foam, felt, and freakishly fun world of movie puppetry with two absolute legends: Mike Quinn and David Barclay. These are the guys who’ve literally had their hands inside Yoda—yes, literally—and helped bring the most beloved alien puppet in cinema history to life. From The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi to The Dark Crystal and Little Shop of Horrors, Mike and David have been at the heart of some of the biggest (and weirdest) creatures ever to hit the sc...

CHICKEN RUN When a flashy American rooster struts into the coop, the hens think he might just be their ticket to freedom. But when the farmers roll in a chicken-pie making machine, escaping becomes a lot more urgent—and they’ll have to hatch a new plan to get out alive. Time is running out, and the flock will need brains, bravery, and a little bit of luck to pull off the ultimate breakout. Craig and Elisabeth talk about rural business plans, deceptive fowls, 90s cartoons and the movie “Chicken Run” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:19 Craig and Elisab...

GOON A soft-spoken bouncer is recruited to a struggling minor league hockey team after showcasing his raw fighting skills during a brawl. Thrown into the brutal world of professional hockey, he battles opponents, wrestles with his own insecurities, and struggles to earn the respect of hardened teammates, all while trying to understand what he’s truly fighting for. Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about Great F’n Movies, Casa Bonita, the Jack Reacher of hockey and the movie “Goon” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 0:49 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan talk about Denver's Casa Bonita. 17:32 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan discuss "G...

The Matinee Heroes crew is back with a special presentation on Andor Season 2, and let’s just say—this one doesn’t play it safe. Host Craig Price joins Alan Cerny and Elizabeth Rapp to discuss how Andor ditches the fan service for real stakes, mature storytelling, and brutal political commentary. With all 12 episodes dropping early, Disney clearly believes in this season—and they should. Star Wars Grows Up Season 2 doesn’t just flirt with heavy themes—it wades into fascism, rebellion, and moral ambiguity without a life jacket. If Season 1 surprised you, Season 2 swings even harder, turning the spotlight on character...

HOOSIERS Disgraced college coach Norman Dale lands a last-chance job leading a high school team in a small-town Indiana. With the town against him, a star player sidelined by a concerned teacher and an alcoholic assistant  by his side, Dale must fight for redemption one game at a time. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Paul Hitchcock talk about the late Gene Hackman, high school sports politics, montages and the movie “Hoosiers” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:01 Craig, Elisabeth and guest Paul Hitchcock talk about high school basketball. 11:05 Craig, Elisabeth and Paul discuss "Hoosiers" 50:35 Recasting 1:11:34 Double Feature 1:15:18 Final Thoughts 1:25:14 A previ...

THE NATURAL Roy Hobbs was born to play baseball—and nothing was going to stand in his way. A natural talent with a lightning bolt for a bat, he quickly catches the eye of scouts and earns the admiration of sportswriter Max Mercy. But just as his star begins to rise, a chance encounter with a mysterious woman derails everything. Years later, Hobbs resurfaces as a seemingly unknown rookie with the New York Knights. Despite clashing with crusty manager Pop Fisher, he becomes the team’s secret weapon—and a threat to the shady team owner, the Judge, who would rather...

Get ready to jump into the world of Star Wars animation with some of the most legendary voice actors in the galaxy! Recorded live at Retro Expo 2024 in Plano, Texas, this unforgettable panel reunited the cast of The Clone Wars and Rebels for a conversation full of laughs, surprises, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories. From Ahsoka Tano to Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker to Hera Syndulla, these voice actors have brought some of the most beloved Star Wars characters to life, shaping the animated universe in ways fans will never forget. Clone Wars and Rebels’ Impact: The actors reflected on how the an...

SLAP SHOT In the gritty steel town of Charlestown, things look grim: the local mill is about to lay off 10,000 workers, and the minor league hockey team, the Charlestown Chiefs, faces its final season after years of failure. To try and save the team, frustrated player-coach Reggie Dunlop unleashes the Hanson Brothers—three bruisers known more for fists than finesse—whose violent style electrifies the fans. Dunlop capitalizes, turning the struggling team into a rough-and-tumble spectacle that packs the arena. Craig and Elisabeth talk about hocky fights, the grimy 70s, the end of Bradley Cooper and the movie “Slap Shot” on this...

CAST AWAY When obsessively punctual FedEx executive Chuck Noland boards a flight to Malaysia, a violent storm sends his plane crashing into the Pacific Ocean. Stranded alone on a deserted island, Chuck fights for survival as initial rescue attempts fail. For years, accompanied only by his handmade volleyball friend, Wilson, Chuck clings to hope, determined to one day escape and return home to his love, Kelly. Craig and Elisabeth talk how to carry a movie by yourself, bonding of inanimate objects, the realities of survival and the movie ‘Cast Away” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:04 Craig and Elisab...

THE MARTIAN After a violent Martian storm forces astronauts to abandon their mission, Mark Watney is mistakenly left behind and presumed dead. Stranded alone with limited resources, Watney must rely on sheer ingenuity, determination, and humor to survive on a planet eager to finish him off. Back on Earth, NASA collaborates urgently with global experts to devise a rescue plan, while Watney's crewmates launch their own risky mission to bring him home. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Brendan Agnew talk travel to Mars, pink eye potatoes, girls scout cookies and the movie “The Martian” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes ...

FAR AND AWAY Joseph, a poor Irish farmer, and Shannon, a rebellious landlord's daughter, journey together from Ireland to America seeking freedom and a fresh start in the Oklahoma land rush. After arriving in Boston, their dreams get delayed when harsh realities force them to fight for survival in unexpected ways. As challenges mount and tensions rise, Joseph and Shannon must confront their feelings for each other and decide whether their ambitions are worth risking it all. Craig and Elisabeth talk about St. Patrick’s Day, bad Irish accents, the immigration experience and the movie “Far and Away" on this week...

3:10 TO YUMA Outlaw Ben Wade terrorizes 1800s Arizona, preying on the Southern Railroad until he's finally captured. Struggling rancher Dan Evans volunteers to escort him to the 3:10 train to justice, but the journey is riddled with peril. As they battle relentless pursuers, a grudging respect forms between them—but survival is anything but guaranteed. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Paul Hitchcock talk about charismatic bad guys, Colorado ghost towns, honoring a code and the move “3:10 to Yuma” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:11 Craig, Elisabeth and Paul Hitchcock talk about Colorado ghost towns and western locales they have visited. 20:50 Craig, E...

Get ready to dive into the world of one of the most dynamic and beloved actors in Hollywood – Vincent D’Onofrio! From his role as the iconic Kingpin in Daredevil to his unforgettable turn as Edgar the bug in Men in Black, D’Onofrio has brought a unique charm and depth to every character he plays. At FanX Salt Lake 2022, Vincent D’Onofrio’s Journey Through Film:, he graced the stage for a fun and insightful panel, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at his legendary career. Vincent D’Onofrio’s Journey Through Film:: D’Onofrio reflects on his early career, including his un...

THE AFRICAN QUEEN After her missionary brother is killed in WWI Africa, A prim and proper spinster reluctantly accepts help from a rough-around-the-edges steamer captain to escape the danger. But when he offers only safe passage, she convinces him to join her in a daring mission to destroy a German gunboat. As they journey down the river, they bicker and clash at every turn, but their time together leads to a surprising and passionate romance. Craig, Elisabeth and Fanboy Planet’s Derek McCaw talk about 1st time viewings, dream destinations, Humphry Bogart in color and the movie “The African Queen” on thi...

THE NORTHMAN Prince Amleth is on the verge of becoming a man when his father is brutally murdered by his uncle, who kidnaps the boy's mother. Two decades later, Amleth is now a Viking who raids Slavic villages. He soon meets a seeress who reminds him of his vow -- save his mother, kill his uncle, avenge his father. Craig and Elisabeth are joined by Paul Hitchcock and Brendan Agnew to talk Berserkers, betrayal, naked swordfights and the movie “The Northman” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:16 Craig, Elisabeth and guests Paul and Brendan talk about exotic places they'd...

DAZED AND CONFUSED On the last day of school in 1976, Texas teens dive into a night of hazing, partying, and chasing the perfect summer kickoff. Freshman Mitch Kramer dodges relentless seniors, while laid-back quarterback Randall "Pink" Floyd resists his coach’s demands. As the night spirals into cruising, keg stands, and stoned epiphanies, they realize growing up is just a wild, winding trip. Craig, Elisabeth and guest Rob Ervin talk about corporal punishment in schools, creepy older dudes, their own high school experiences and the movie’ Dazed and Confused” on this week’s Matinee Heroes! Show Notes 1:16 Craig, Elisabeth and Rob talk...

EVERY WHICH WAY BUT LOOSE A tough trucker with a pet orangutan Clyde, Philo Beddoe moonlights as a bare knuckle fighter, with his close friend Orville Boggs setting up matches for him. When Philo begins dating country singer Lynn Halsey-Taylor and she abruptly disappears, he goes off in search of her, his simian companion and Orville in tow. On their cross-country trek, Philo and friends repeatedly clash with bikers and rogue cops leading up to a violent showdown. Craig and Elisabeth talk about exotic animal ownership, Colorado film locations, Deep Cuts the Game and the film “Every Which Way But Lo...

Get ready to laugh, cheer, and relive the excitement of the Psych panel from FanX Salt Lake in 2022! Featuring Maggie Lawson and Timothy Omundson, this unforgettable event celebrated the wit, charm, and camaraderie that make Psych a fan-favorite show. Dive into behind-the-scenes stories, hilarious moments, and a lively Q&A with fans. Maggie Lawson’s First Fan Convention: Hear her heartfelt reaction to the warm welcome from fans at FanX. Interactive Q&A: Fans bring their best questions, with the cast responding in their signature playful and witty style. Behind-the-Scenes Humor: Insightful and hilarious anecdotes from the set of Psych. “You...

Dive into the world of Twin Peaks with this March 2020 panel from the Fayetteville Comic Show featuring cast members Sheryl Lee, Dana Ashbrook, Eric Da Re, and more. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to heartfelt fan stories, this discussion is packed with humor, nostalgia, and the enduring magic of Twin Peaks. Behind-the-Scenes Secrets: Cheryl Lee reflects on her transformation from "the dead girl" to an iconic character, while Dana Ashbrook talks about Bobby Briggs' redemption arc in Season 3. David Lynch Stories: Hear cast members share their impressions of David Lynch’s unique directing style and iconic quotes. Cultural Legacy: Discover how Twin Pe...

THE FOUNTAIN A man embarks on a transcendent journey through time, driven by an unrelenting quest for immortality and a desperate mission to save the woman he loves. As a 16th-century conquistador, Tomas hunts for the fabled Fountain of Youth. In the present day, he is a scientist racing against time to cure his wife's terminal cancer. And in the 26th century, as a lone astronaut adrift in the cosmos, Tom confronts the profound mysteries of existence—life, love, and the inevitability of death. Craig, Elisabeth, and guest Austin Vashaw discuss Elisabeth’s birthday struggles, the existential meaning of death, how...