Little Monsters (1989)

Little Monsters (1989)

Author: TruStory FM August 13, 2025 Duration: 50:18
Join us for a wild ride under the bed!
The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast dives into the bizarre world of Little Monsters (1989), starring Fred Savage and Howie Mandel. Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell are joined by comedy all-star Jenna Jacobsen from Mesa's Neighborhood Comedy Theater to dissect this attempt at creating "Beetlejuice for kids."Was this monster movie a trick or treat?
Our panel discovers that Little Monsters is equal parts gross-out humor and confusing world-building. While the film tries to capture every kid's dream of causing mischief without consequences, it struggles with unclear rules about its monster underworld and features an unlikable protagonist who goes from indignant victim to gleeful prankster. The hosts debate whether Fred Savage's Brian learns any real lessons or just perpetuates cycles of bullying behavior.Production struggles show on screen
The podcast explores how ambitious creature design and elaborate set pieces were hampered by obvious budget constraints and poor lighting. Howie Mandel's manic performance as Maurice the monster feels more cocaine-fueled 80s punk than kid-friendly guide, while the film's gross-out gags land with a thud rather than laughs. Even Mandel reportedly hated making the movie due to the uncomfortable makeup and warehouse filming conditions.The verdict: Creative concept, flawed execution
Despite mixed reactions from the panel (ratings ranged from 4 to 6 out of 10 horns), the hosts appreciate the film's swing-for-the-fences mentality and Ben Savage's surprisingly strong child acting performance.Other Topics Covered:
  • Peanut butter and onion sandwiches—Fred Savage's questionable food choice
  • Comparison to Beetlejuice and Monsters, Inc. influences
  • The film's excessive use of profanity for a kids' movie
  • Dream Warriors-style climax with monster-fighting kids
  • Cross-country chase scene logistics and plot holes
  • Deep cut recommendations: Spirited Away, Clifford, The Wizard
  • Bringing back "over the shoulder boulder holder" terminology
Tune in for more 80s movie mayhem at The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast—where we revisit the decade's gems and disasters with modern grown-up eyes!
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Join filmmaker Nathan Blackwell from Squishy Studios and comedian Krissy Lenz from the Neighborhood Comedy Theatre as they dust off the VHS tapes and rewind the decade that defined blockbuster entertainment. the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a fresh, often hilarious dissection of the films that shaped a generation. Each episode, this duo from TruStory FM applies their distinct professional lenses-one from the world of filmmaking, the other from live comedy-to explore the movies we remember fondly, the ones we might have skipped, and the hidden gems that deserve another look. They tackle the cultural context, the now-questionable special effects, and the enduring tropes, all through a modern perspective that acknowledges the significant haze of nostalgia coloring our memories. You'll hear deep dives into character motivations, production stories, and the sheer joy of rediscovering a classic, all wrapped in a conversation that feels like hanging out with two friends who are deeply passionate about cinema. This podcast celebrates the enduring legacy of 80s film while never shying away from a good-natured roast, making for a consistently engaging and funny listen for anyone who loves the magic-and occasional madness-of that era's movies.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

the Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast
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