Matinee Minutiae
## **Matinee Minutiae: The Cinema Deep-Dive for True Movie Nerds** Ever found yourself ignoring the plot of a movie because you were too busy wondering why that one character actor looks so familiar? Or maybe you've paused a film just to look up the exact month it was released to see if it coincided with a forgotten snack food launch? If you live for the "Wait, was that...?" moments, **Matinee Minutiae** is the podcast you’ve been searching for. --- ### **What is Matinee Minutiae?** Hosted by **DJ Starsage** and **Matt Burlingame**, this isn't just another "two guys talking about movies" show. *Ma...
The Electric Grandmother (1982)
We spend this hour asking the big question up front: can a machine truly replace a mother? I mean, Ray Bradbury’s “The Electric Grandmother” gives it a go—an earnest, sometimes creepy 1982 TV special (and a 1962 Twilight Zone script before that) about three grieving kids, a grieving dad, and a robotic grandma who shows up in an Egyptian-style sarcophagus and pours hot chocolate out of her fingertips. We walk through the three-act structure—setup (the dad brings in the robot for love and help), conflict (Agatha, the kid who won’t stop being suspicious because she’s still raw from loss...
The Monster Squad (1987)
We're breaking down The Monster Squad (1987) — a delightfully loopy, cult-classic movie where a gang of monster-obsessed kids (yeah, the kind of kids we were) band together with wooden stakes, silver bullets and way too much pluck to stop Dracula and his monster bowling team from grabbing an amulet that could plunge the world into darkness. We walk through the basic plot (kids find a German monster manual, adults don’t believe them, mysterious neighbor helps, Phoebe saves the day), explain why it flopped at the box office but later found life on VHS and at conventions, and name-drop the folk...
The Haunting (1963)
Companies mentioned in this episode:
Apple TV+Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)MGM British StudiosDisney+ABCThe Peanutbutter Solution (1985)
We dive right into The Peanut Butter Solution — a wonderfully bonkers 1985 kids’ fantasy where 11-year-old Michael loses all his hair after a spooky encounter, uses a ghost-given peanut-buttery potion that makes his hair grow out of control, and gets kidnapped by a sinister art teacher who wants to turn that magic hair into irresistible paintbrushes. We riff on the plot (yes, the peanut-butter recipe includes “five dead flies” — don’t try this at home), break down the family dynamics (absent mom, sister Susie filling the parental role), and point out how the villain’s brush-for-profit scheme turns the kid-friendly romp into some...
When Time Ran Out (1980)
The After Hours (1960)
Welcome to Patty's Video Palace, where we’re diving headfirst into the bizarre and mind-bending world of "The Twilight Zone" with a focus on the episode "After Hours." The main point we're tackling today? The shocking twist that our protagonist, Marcia, discovers she's not just a regular gal but a mannequin destined to return to her display after a short stint as a human. It’s a wild ride as we chat about the heat wave outside, the kids loitering in the store, and how a simple shopping trip turned into a trip down a rabbit hole of identity cris...
Big Eden (2000)
Today, we're diving into the heartwarming film "Big Eden," which tells the story of Henry Hart, a successful gay artist who returns to his small Montana hometown to care for his ailing grandfather. The main takeaway here is about letting go of past romantic ideals to embrace new possibilities—and boy, does Henry have a journey ahead of him! As he reconnects with his childhood friend Dean, he also finds unexpected affection from Pike, the local store owner. The film beautifully portrays a small town that offers a surprisingly supportive community, where love can flourish against all odds. Whether yo...
Pecker (1998)
Pecker's journey through the wild world of art and fame takes center stage as we dive into this episode! From his humble beginnings in Baltimore to being thrust into the limelight, Pecker grapples with the clash between his artistic integrity and the demands of the pretentious art world. We share a few laughs as we reminisce about the quirks of childhood games and the hilarity of our own awkward experiences. Join us as we explore the film’s satirical take on fame, family, and the chaos that ensues when everyday life becomes art. Plus, we can’t resist diving into...
Starman (1984)
We're diving into the heartwarming yet quirky world of "Starman," where an alien takes on the form of a deceased husband to reconnect with his widow. This episode is all about exploring the complexities of love, loss, and what it means to be human. As we meander through the story, we laugh and reflect on the absurdities of life, like how two kids ended up with three copies of "Steel Magnolias" during a sidewalk sale! We also touch on the significance of Pride Month and how the film reflects themes of acceptance and kindness. So grab your favorite snack...
Second Sight (1989)
We’re diving into the wacky world of “Second Sight” today, a delightful romp from 1989 that pairs a psychic detective with his skeptical partner on a wild chase to solve a disappearance. The main point? It’s all about the chaos that ensues when the supposed psychic powers of Bobby, played by Bronson Pinchot, clash hilariously with Ray, the grounded ex-cop portrayed by John Larroquette. As they navigate a tangled web of kidnappings, mistaken identities, and absurd situations, we’re left wondering if Bobby’s visions are the real deal or just a stroke of luck. And trust me, the humor is...
Going In Style (1979)
Get ready to dive into the world of "Going in Style," where three elderly friends, played by the legendary George Burns, Art Carney, and Lee Strasberg, decide to spice up their mundane lives by plotting a bank heist. Right from the start, we tackle the reality of aging and how these lovable characters grapple with loneliness, financial struggles, and the desire for a little thrill before it’s too late. Despite the comedic overtones, the film serves up a bittersweet slice of life, highlighting the importance of friendship and the fear of being forgotten in a fast-paced world. We’ll e...
Starflight: The Plane That Couldn't Land (1983)
We’re diving into a wild ride with “Starflight: The Space Plane That Couldn't Land,” where the stakes are as high as the orbit! This episode's main highlight is the chaotic journey of a commercial space plane that gets stuck in a dangerously high orbit, leaving the crew scrambling for survival with dwindling oxygen and malfunctioning systems. As we unpack the hilariously absurd moments, from a coffin rescue to the questionable logic behind sending a dead guy to save the day, we reflect on the film’s blend of Cold War anxieties and sci-fi thrills. Our banter takes you through...
Dolores Claiborne (1995)
Spring is in the air, and so is the drama in our latest chat about the film "Dolores Claiborne"! We dive right into the heart of the episode by exploring the gripping tension between love and sacrifice through the lens of Kathy Bates' powerful performance as Dolores. The film, adapted from Stephen King's novel, uncovers the dark secrets of a mother-daughter relationship marred by abuse, trauma, and the haunting question: is Dolores a cold-blooded killer or a desperate mother protecting her child? We share a few laughs (and a few cringe-worthy moments) as we reminisce about the wild ride...
Foul Play (1978)
Mother Nature really pulled a fast one on us this week, going from a lovely 70 degrees back down to freezing in a snap! I mean, what gives? It's like she decided to give us the cold shoulder right after I finally took my first morning walk since last fall. Seriously, I'm not impressed. Speaking of things that can leave you feeling frosty, we dive into the world of Girl Scouts and their cookie sales, sharing some hilarious anecdotes about the lengths we go to for those sweet treats. Plus, we’ve got a classic movie on deck—1978’s “Foul Play”—fe...
Misfits of Science (1985)
Hey there, my fabulous friends! Today, we're diving into the wild world of creativity—specifically, how to unleash your inner artist, even if you think you’ve got two left feet (or hands, in this case)! We’ll be chatting about the joys of letting go of perfection and embracing the messy, beautiful process that comes with creating anything from doodles to epic masterpieces. You know, it's all about having fun and not taking ourselves too seriously—because who needs a critic when you can just be your own biggest fan? So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s ex...
Inside Daisy Clover (1965)
Happy Valentine's Day, folks! In today's episode, we dive into the wild world of Hollywood through the lens of *Inside Daisy Clover*, a film that showcases the harsh realities of fame and the studio system. We explore how Daisy, played by the iconic Natalie Wood, navigates her tumultuous rise to stardom while grappling with the pressures and manipulations of the industry. From the laughs to the cringes, we dissect the bizarre characters, like her unstable mother and the charming yet duplicitous co-star, Wade Lewis, portrayed by Robert Redford. The film’s take on celebrity culture is as relevant today as...
Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (1997)
We're diving into the fun and fabulous world of "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion" where two best friends navigate the ups and downs of adulthood with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of nostalgia. The main point here? It's all about the pressure to impress at reunions and the lengths we go to mask our insecurities! From the cold chill of Gopher Gulch to the sunny vibes of LA, we're exploring how Romy and Michelle's wild scheme to reinvent themselves takes a hilarious twist when their lies unravel. Trust me, you don’t want to miss our pl...
Right of Way (1983)
Episode Summary
DJ and Matt return from the holiday break at the trailer park to discuss the 1983 HBO original film "Right of Way". This "Trauma TV" era drama stars screen legends Bette Davis and James Stewart as an elderly couple facing a terminal diagnosis and the controversial decision to end their lives together. The hosts delve into the film's heavy themes of autonomy, dignity, and the societal interference that follows their private choice
Key Discussion Points & Timestamps
[00:00:00] Survival of the Holidays: DJ and Matt recap the New Year's festivities at the trailer park, including...Mulberrry (1992)
Ringing in the new year from the "Gopher Gulch" video store, DJ and Matt take a time-traveling trip back to 1992. After reflecting on the historic shifts and cinematic blockbusters of the early 90s, the duo dives into the hidden gem of British television: the supernatural sitcom Mulberry. They explore themes of compassion, the "family business" of death, and why a show about a cheerful apprentice Grim Reaper remains a poignant watch decades later.
Timeline & Key Highlights
00:00 – New Year at the Video Store: Banter about the "office party," the controversy of "fun-sized" Snickers, and the legendary Lula Ma...The Desk Set (1957)
Episode Summary
In this festive installment, the hosts shake off their "Wild Turkey" hangovers and travel back to 19571111. After a deep dive into the historical and cultural shifts of the late 1950s—from the launch of Sputnik to the debut of Leave it to Beaver—the discussion turns to the workplace classic Desk Set. The hosts explore the legendary chemistry of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, the timeless fear of being replaced by automation, and the chaotic charm of mid-century office Christmas parties.
Timeline & Key Highlights
00:00 – Holiday Survival: Banter about surviving Thanksgiving dinner, Aunt Gloria...Switch (1991)
We're diving into the chaotic world of "Switch," where a womanizing ad executive meets his messy demise and gets a second chance at life—this time in the body of a woman! As we chat about the film's wild ride through gender dynamics and personal growth, we can't help but crack jokes about the absurdity of it all. From the hilarious jello salad that steals the Thanksgiving spotlight to the awkward moments that come with switching genders, we explore how Steve's transformation reveals the ridiculousness of toxic masculinity. Plus, we reminisce about our own Thanksgiving mishaps and the heartwarming (an...
Stella (1990)
Matinee Minutia: Stella (1990) - The Divine Ms. M.'s Selfless Motherhood
Episode 804: Show Notes
This week, DJ and Matt travel back to a world of cargo pants, Aquanet, and dial-up—1990! Before diving into Bette Midler’s heartbreaking turn as a single mom, the duo catches up on Lula May's questionable Thanksgiving invitation and Cooter Jack’s latest shenanigans in the basement. Once the VCR stops blinking, the focus turns to the 1990 remake of Stella, exploring the class divide, a mother's ultimate sacrifice, and the enduring power of Bette Midler's talent.
Key Segments
[00:00:02] Welcom...Elvira: Mistress of The Dark (1988)
Takeaways:
In this episode, we dive into the wild world of Halloween traditions and spooky treats, including our favorite candies that have haunted our childhoods. It's a sugar rush of nostalgia! We chat about classic Halloween activities and the quirky costumes we wore growing up, revealing some hilarious stories that will make you chuckle and reminisce about those good old days. Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, is not just a campy horror film; it explores themes of individuality and empowerment while mixing in a hefty dose of sass and supernatural antics that keep us entertained. The podcast highlights...Invaders from Mars (1986)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1986 Horror, Sci-Fi film "Invaders from Mars" starring Karen Black & Louise Fletcher.
Recommendations: "The Faculty" (1998) and "The Monster Squad" (1987)
Next Time: "Elvira: Mistress of The Dark" To Be Released on 10/31
The Net (1995)
In their Season Premiere DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1995 Conspiracy Thriller, Action, Crime, Drama "The Net" starring Sandra Bullock and Jeremy Northam. Next Time: "Invaders from Mars" (1986) To Be Released 10/24
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Somewhere In Time (1980)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1980 Period Drama, Fantasy, Romance "Somewhere In Time" starring Christoper Reeves, Jane Seymour and Christopher Plummer. Our Season Finale. New Episide Resume in September
Recommendations: The Time Traveler's Wife (2009), and Starman (1984)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Always (1989)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1989 Drama, Fantasy, Romance "Always" starring Holly Hunter, Richard Dreyfuss and John Goodman. A Steven Spielberg Film.
Recommendations: Heaven Can Wait (1978) and Ghost (1990)
Next Time: Our Season Finale "Somewhere In Time" (1980)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Vibes (1988)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1988 Adventure, Comedy, Romance film "Vibes" starring Cyndi Lauper, Jeff Goldblum and Peter Falk. Next Time: Always (1989) To Be Released 8/15.
Recommendations: "Romancing The Stone" (1984), "High Spirits" (1988)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
How To Beat The High Cost of Living (1980)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1980 Comedy, Crime Film "How To Beat The High Cost of Living" starring Susan Saint James, Jane Curtain and Jessica Lange. Next Time: Vibes (1988) To Be Released on 8/01
Recommendations: "Crackers" (1984) and "The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas" (1982)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
The Sting (1973)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1973 Caper, Comedy, Crime Drama "The Sting" starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford.
Recommendations: "Going In Style" (1979), "Klute" (1971)
Next Time: How To Beat The High Cost of Living (1980) To Be Released 7/18
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Bros (2022)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 2022 Romantic Comedy "Bros" starring Billy Eichner and Luke MacFarlane. Happy Pride! Next Time: The Sting
Recommendations: "Going In Style" (1979), "Klute" (1971)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky View the new home of our recording sessions on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Rope (1948)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1948 Crime Drama, Mystery Thriller "Rope" starring James Stewart. An Alfred Hitchcock film. Next Time: Bros (2022) To Be Released On 6/20
Related Recommendations: “Under The Silver Lake” (2018) and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf? (1966)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky View the new home of our recording sessions on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
Death Becomes Her (1992)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1992 Dark Comedy "Death Becomes Her" starring Meryl Streep & Goldie Hawn. A Robert Zemeckis film. Next Time: Rope (1948) an Alfred Hithcock film. To Be Released 6/06
Recommendations: "My Boyfriend's Back" (1993) and "She-Devil" (1989)
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky View the new home of our recording sessions on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
#cinephile #90snostalgia #cultclassics
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Come Back Mrs. Noah (1977)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1977 UK Sci-Fi Comedy TV Series "Come Back Mrs. Noah" starring Molly Sugden. Next Time: Death Becomes Her. To Be Released 4/09
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky View the new home of our recording sessions on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
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Harriet the Spy (1996)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1996 Comedy, Drama "Harriet the Spy" starring Michelle Trachtenberg and Rosie O'Donnell. Next Time: Come Back Mrs. Noah To Be Released 4/18
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky View our our videos on Odysee. Friend DJ on Facebook
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Legend (1985)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1985 Dark Fantasy, Adventure, Romance "Legend" starring Tom Cruise, Mia Sara and Tim Curry. Next Time: "Harriet The Spy" To Be Released on 4/04
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on YouTube. Friend DJ on Facebook
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Return to Oz (1985)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1985 Dark Fantasy, Adventure, Family film "Return To Oz" starring Fairuza Balk, Laurie Piper and Jean Marsh. Based upon the books by L. Frank Baum. Next Time: Legend (1985) To Be Released 3/21
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on YouTube. Friend DJ on Facebook
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The Last Starfighter (1984)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1984 Action Adventure Sc-Fi film "The Last Starfighter" starring Lance Guest and Robert Preston. Next Time: Return to Oz. To Be Released on 3/07
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on YouTube. Friend DJ on Facebook
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The Lost Saucer (1975)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1975 Sid & Marty Krofft Family Sci-Fi TV Series "The Lost Saucer" starring Ruth Buzzi & Jim Nabors. Next Time: The Last Starfighter. To Be Released on 2/14
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on YouTube. Friend DJ on Facebook
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Ruthless People (1986)
DJ & Matt discuss the trivia behind the 1986 Comedy, Crime "Ruthless People" starring Danny DeVito and Bette Midler. Next Time: The Lost Saucer To Be Released on 1/31
Write to DJ & Matt at [email protected] Leave a comment on our page at matineeminutiae.com Follow the show on BlueSky. View our our videos on YouTube. Friend DJ on Facebook
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