Team America: World Police with Blake Salisbury

Christine (1983) with Scott Weinberg

Jun 30, 20261h 40mSummary

In this episode of Junkfood Cinema, hosts Brian Salisbury and Scott Weinberg dive into the 1983 horror classic Christine, directed by John Carpenter. The hosts explore the film as a compelling entry in the misfit strikes back subgenre, drawing parallels between the story of a bullied teenager’s transformation and the broader anxieties of growing up. They provide an insightful analysis of Keith Gordon’s performance as Arnie Cunningham, arguing that the film transcends its pulpy, high-concept premise through deep character work and an almost Shakespearean tragedy regarding the dissolution of friendships. A significant portion of the discussion centers on John Carpenter’s career arc during the early 1980s. The hosts examine how the unfair box office failure of The Thing forced Carpenter to pivot, suggesting that Christine functioned as both a professional recovery project and a deeply personal piece of filmmaking. They touch upon the atmospheric tension and iconic score that define the movie, while comparing the adaptation process to the original Stephen King novel. Ultimately, the episode serves as a thoughtful appreciation of a cult favorite that remains a high point in the careers of both the director and the author.

Supergirl (1984) with John Gholson

Jun 26, 20261h 32mSummary

In this episode of Junkfood Cinema, hosts Brian Salisbury and guest John Gholson dive into the 1984 cult film Supergirl. The hosts provide a deep dive into the production history of the film, which they classify as one of the infamous, expensive duds of the 1980s. A significant portion of their conversation focuses on the producers, Alexander and Ilya Salkind, whom they characterize as legendary cinema hustlers known for their questionable business practices, such as the infamous Salkind clause. The discussion also touches upon the film’s unique elements, including the bizarre space-hippy aesthetic of Argo City and the inconsistent power dynamics of DC characters. The hosts examine the casting of Helen Slater, noting the challenges she faced as a newcomer opposite industry heavyweights like Peter O’Toole, and they share anecdotes about Faye Dunaway’s notoriously diva-like behavior on set. The hosts wrap up by analyzing the film’s legacy, its connection to the broader Superman cinematic universe, and why it remains a largely forgotten chapter in superhero film history. It is an engaging, humorous, and insightful look at a film that often straddles the line between campy failure and fascinating curio.

Thrashin' (1986) with Blake Salisbury

May 15, 20261h 9mSummary

In this episode of Junkfood Cinema, host Brian Salisbury is joined by his brother, Blake Salisbury, to revisit the 1986 skateboarding cult classic Thrashin'. The hosts dive into the nostalgic, raw, and undeniably cheesy nature of the film, which they classify as an unheralded masterpiece of the era. They explore how the movie captures the specific aesthetic and rebellious spirit of mid-80s skateboarding culture, despite its inaccuracies and the title’s grammatically questionable use of an apostrophe. The discussion highlights the film’s innovative, albeit experimental, cinematography that helped define how skateboarding was captured on screen before the sport had a standardized visual language. The brothers also share insights into the movie’s cast, including a young Josh Brolin, whose disdain for his performance in the film is contrasted with the genuine, lasting impact it had on the skate community. Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in lively tangents regarding the movie’s influence on iconic video games like Skate or Die, the oddity of the "skateboard joust" scene, and the bizarrely star-studded celebrity races of the 2000s, all while celebrating the film's status as a quintessential, low-stakes time capsule of 1980s Southern California youth culture.

Mimic (1997) with Scott Weinberg

Apr 30, 20261h 21mSummary

In this episode of Junkfood Cinema, the hosts dive into the subterranean world of the 1997 creature feature Mimic. As Guillermo del Toro’s first English-language film, the movie serves as a fascinating nexus point for his career, blending B-movie DNA with the director’s signature A-movie craftsmanship. The discussion explores del Toro’s unique ability to treat genre concepts with profound empathy, even when dealing with literal man-sized cockroaches hiding in the sewers of New York. The hosts delve into the troubled production history, detailing the nightmare scenario of working under the intense pressure and interference of the Weinsteins. They highlight the pivotal role Mira Sorvino played in protecting del Toro’s vision, as well as the frustrating studio mandates that compromised casting decisions. Beyond the behind-the-scenes drama, the conversation touches on the film’s visual mastery, its effective use of suspense, and the darker, more cynical elements of its narrative—such as the precarious safety of children, a recurring theme in the director’s work. Ultimately, the episode frames Mimic as a classic example of a big, ambitious swing that remains essential viewing for any fan of monster cinema.

Tuff Turf (1985)

Apr 24, 20261h 3mSummary

In this episode of Junkfood Cinema, hosts Brian Salisbury and C. Robert Cargill examine the 1985 cult film Tough Turf, a high-octane bully revenge movie that features a young James Spader in his first lead role. The hosts frame the discussion as a thematic double feature alongside another Spader-led film, The New Kids, noting how both movies capture the unique, gritty aesthetic of 80s exploitation cinema. The conversation delves into the film’s chaotic production history under the banner of New World Pictures, touching on the influence of Roger Corman and the heavy reliance on an improvisational, substance-fueled atmosphere on set. The hosts highlight the tonal shifts of the movie, which oscillates between a teen romance, a musical, and a violent vigilante thriller. They offer praise for the supporting cast, particularly a young Robert Downey Jr. and veteran character actor Matt Clark, while exploring the film’s surprisingly earnest commentary on class politics and identity. The hosts analyze how Tough Turf stands out in the crowded landscape of 80s teen gang films, ultimately celebrating its status as a piece of bonkers, genre-bending cinema that remains a fascinating relic of its era.