Matinee Heroes

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 Impossible" 40:07 Recasting 55:30 Double Feature 58:07 Final Thoughts 1:02:51 A preview of next week's episode "Contagion" Next week, we bring you a disaster that was predicted!! Soderbergh's "Contagion" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sYSyuuLk5g&ab_channel=RottenTomatoesTrailers

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 disasters they've encountered. 12:45 Craig and Elisabeth discuss "The French Connection" 47:02 Recasting 1:11:51 Double Feature 1:14:46 Final Thoughts 1:21:43 A preview of next week's episode "The Impossible" Next week, we bring you another disaster...I mean, episode focusing on nature's fury in "The Impossible"!  

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 nervous teen, a pack of Marlboros, and a surprise audition landed Howell a shot at E.T.—thanks to some fast thinking from his stuntman dad. Rutger's Rule: A cryptic lunch with The Hitcher co-star Rutger Hauer revealed a performance philosophy that would shape Howell’s future as a villain on Criminal Minds. Cowboy Credentials: Whether it's wrangling roles or actual horses, Howell proves that sometimes

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 – towering menace from Highlander and Shawshank Redemption             Stream the full ceremony to celebrate the legends who made movie heroes suffer—and audiences cheer.

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, lively presence—exactly what you’ll hear in the panel. She had some health issues, but 57 is still way too young. So this is just our small way of honoring her—sharing a bit of that Twin Peaks reunion panel from 2020 and remembering the spark she brought with her wherever she went.

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 and Elisabeth discuss "The French Connection" 36:03 Recasting 51:46 Double Feature 54:35 Final Thoughts Next week, we bring you a special episode as we present our first inductees into the William Atherton Asshole Hall of Fame!

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 June Hackman month by discovering which Gene Hackman movies are Alan's favorites. 7:34 Craig, Elisabeth and Alan discuss "Crimson Tide" 34:16 Recasting 55:04 Double Feature 59:39 Final Thoughts 1:12:35 A preview of next week's episode "The French Connection" Next week, we end June Hackman with his Oscar winning role in "The French Connection" https://www.youtube.com/w

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 movies are Liz's favorites. 5:21 Craig, Elisabeth and Liz discuss "The Birdcage" 56:01 Recasting 1:22:45 Double Feature 1:32:52 Final Thoughts 1:38:11 A preview of next week's episode "Crimson Tide" Next week, we continue June Hackman with him dueling Denzel in "Crimson Tide" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3ItZQb-GLM&ab_channel=Fi

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 Conversation" 54:10 Recasting 1:09:25 Double Feature 1:15:00 Final Thoughts 1:23:32 A preview of next week's episode "The Birdcage" Next week we continue June Hackman with one of his funniest roles in "The Birdcage" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7FcPlt8hHc&ab_channel=AmazonMGMStudios

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 nearly sawed a hole through the Millennium Falcon during a lighting delay. Puppets and Persistence: Mike Quinn, the man behind Nien Nunb and Yoda’s right hand, explains how hanging around the set got him the job—and a footnote in Star Wars history. “Star Wars is kind of like the genie that just keeps granting wishes.” - Mike Quinn Want more exclusive i

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" 46:22 Recasting 1:04:36 Double Feature 1:08:17 Final Thoughts 1:15:03 A preview of next week's episode "The Conversation" Next week we celebrate June Hackman! An entire month dedicated to Gene Hackman and we start with "The Conversation" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elJL5D6HTvA&ab_channel=HDRetroTrailers

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 entire convention center to give a fan an autograph who had missed her while she was away from her table. She didn’t want to disappoint anyone.  And she certainly did not. Here's to you, Loretta.

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 discuss "Kung Fu Panda" 48:56 Recasting 1:07:15 Double Feature 1:11:14 Final Thoughts 1:15:36 A preview of next week's episode "How to Train Your Dragon" Next week Ani-MAY-tion ends with a fan favorite "How to Train Your Dragon" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfBHLVtbG6U&ab_channel=GavsTrailers

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 Thoughts 1:13:28 A preview of next week's episode "Kung Fu Panda" Next week Ani-MAY-tion continues with a modern classic "Kung Fu Panda" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRc-ze7Wrxw&ab_channel=KungFuPanda

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, Elisabeth, Tracy Mangum and Jake Dietz talk about the cartoons Jake's kids enjoy. 14:41 Craig, Elisabeth, Tracy and Jake discuss "Fantastic Mr. Fox" 51:33 Recasting 1:27:44 Double Feature 1:32:21 Final Thoughts 1:42:57 A preview of next week's episode "Akira" Next week Ani-MAY-tion gets retro with the classic 80's anime "Akira" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcAfl96FKQI&ab_channel=nickbtube

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 screen—and yes, they even pulled out a Yoda puppet mid-panel. You’ve never seen a conversation get this real. The Secret Life of Yoda: Mark Hamill helped launch David’s career after meeting him in a London toy store, while Mike snuck onto The Muppet Show set using cigarettes and chocolate. Audrey II's Gym Routine: It took eight weeks—and some torn muscles—to shoot one song for Little Shop of Horrors with the massive Audrey II puppet. Liv

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 Elisabeth talk about the cartoons they watched as kids. 9:44 Craig and Elisabeth discuss "Chicken Run" 37:25 Recasting 53:12 Double Feature 55:25 Final Thoughts 1:01:55 A preview of next week's episode "The Fantastic Mr. Fox" Next week Ani-MAY-tion gets extra quirky with Wes Anderson's "Fantastic Mr. Fox". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2igjYFojUo&ab_channel=SearchlightPictures

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 "Goon" 37:55 Recasting 1:00:10 Double Feature 1:08:12 Final Thoughts 1:12:01 A preview of next week's episode "Chicken Run" Next week we start Ani-MAY-tion with a claymation classic "Chicken Run" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEOfT7hUcDs&ab_channel=ChickenRunMovie

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 characters who are messy, conflicted, and all too real. No Lightsabers, No Problem From Cassian Andor’s emotional descent to Mon Mothma’s political sacrifice, this is Star Wars with consequences. Yes, there are familiar faces, but this show earns them. It’s not about nostalgia—it’s about impact. Final Thoughts This might be the best storytelling Star Wars has ever produced. Period. Even if you’re not a f

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 preview of next week's episode "Goon" Next week we end sports movies where we started, talking hockey and the movie "Goon" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cr_7jC_v9xA&ab_channel=MagnoliaPictures%26MagnetReleasing