Interview: Jonathan Betuel | A "Last Starfighter" Sequel?

Interview: Jonathan Betuel | A "Last Starfighter" Sequel?

Author: Will Padilla | 80s Now June 7, 2024 Duration: 45:45

Beginning in 2015, fans of 1984's "The Last Starfighter" were thrilled when a potential sequel was teased. That excitement was buoyed when “Rogue One” scribe Gary Whitta announced he was working with Jon on the project—and ultimately released concept art for the film in 2021. Sadly, however, those hopes were dashed in September 2022, when Whitta responded to a fan on Twitter, writing, “To be honest there's a decent chance it never happens.” And since then, there have been no updates.

On this episode, Will chats with Jonathan Betuel, the writer of "The Last Starfighter," about the origins of the film, his experience with arcade games, and whether a potential sequel is still in the works.

00:00 - Introduction

06:05 - Interview: Jonathan Betuel

42:25 - Wrap-Up

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Each week on 1980s Now, host Will Padilla digs into the lasting impact of that decade's pop culture, arguing there's more to its modern resonance than simple nostalgia. This podcast connects the dots between then and now through personal stories and conversations with the people who shaped the era-musicians, actors, directors, and other insiders. The discussions reveal how the so-called "era of greed" actually cultivated seminal moments in film, television, music, and sports that continue to define our current landscape. You'll hear specific analysis about why certain movies still look groundbreaking, how TV shows of the period tackled themes that feel surprisingly current, and which musical innovations from the 80s are still being mined by today's artists. It’s a detailed exploration for anyone who enjoys a deep dive, offering a richer understanding of the decade's genuine artistic legacy beyond the familiar hits and iconic imagery. Tune in for a weekly session that treats the 1980s not as a museum piece but as a living, influential force, making this podcast a go-to for thoughtful entertainment.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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