Podcast

Classic American Movies

Film History, Film Interviews, TV & Film

I love showing movies to people and talking about the stories behind making them. Join me for an educational look at films throughout the years and as I interview those who make them (in a segments called "Cult Classics with Chris.)
After listening to the show, please follow the pod on Instagram and Facebook .
(Note: Not all films will be American, or classics). Original theme music by Nick Montalvo

Episodes
160
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
48 min
On air since
2020
Latest episode
2 weeks ago

Episodes

160 episodes, newest first

  1. Ep. 120 - Other Mommy

    Show notes

    I’ve said it a lot this year, but is "Other Mommy" the most bizarre movie of 2026?
    In my latest episode, I dive deep into Rob Savage's new supernatural horror film starring Jessica Chastain and Jay Duplass. While the story leaves us with a ho-hum ending and a bland narrative, you can't deny the incredible creature design and terrifying set pieces! From creepy ceiling dances at parties to chaotic ball pit terror at a Kids Play Zone, there are plenty of wild gags that horror fans won't want to miss.
    Are the visuals enough to save this adaptation of Josh Malerman's 'Incidents Around the House'? Tune in to hear the full breakdown, rants on indie filmmaking, critic reviews, and more.
    If you're not doing so already, make sure to follow Classic American Movies on Instagram for mini movie reviews, trivia, and behind-the-scenes updates!
    Also, head over to http://www.classicamericanmovies.com/ to check out my full-length, in-depth movie reviews and blog posts.
    👉 Follow me on Instagram
    👉 Visit my Website

    26 min
  2. Ep. 119 - Dusty Saunders Interview ("Big City Pizza"/ Blotto Films)

    Show notes

    Catching Dusty Saunders’ flick Big City Pizza at the Amazing Fantasy Film Fest blew me away. The setup is pretty straightforward: Boney, a skeleton pizza delivery guy, navigates Big City on the night of the massive Omni Ball Championship. Blotto Films takes you on a surreal, mind-bending ride exploring what it really means to exist, landing somewhere far outside of sanity.
    If you’re hitting the festival circuit, do yourself a favor and check out Big City Pizza. Head over to the Blotto Films YouTube channelright now to dive into Saunders’ wild universe and watch the rest of their work.

    Enjoyed this episode? Stay connected!

    If you're not doing so already, make sure to follow Classic American Movies onInstagram for mini movie reviews, trivia, and behind-the-scenes updates!Also, head over tohttp://www.classicamericanmovies.com/ to check out my full-length, in-depth movie reviews and blog posts.
    👉Follow me on Instagram
    👉Visit my Website

    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies.
    We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    1 hr 33 min
  3. Ep. 118 - Mia'Kate Russell interview (Penny Lane is Dead writer/director)

    Show notes

    After watching Mia’Kate Russell's latest movie Penny Lane is Dead, I was fully prepared to write a review. It’s totally clear she’s a massive horror junkie who has a serious passion for the genre and knows exactly how to make a story work. But then I figured... why write a review when I can just talk to her directly?
    So, I brought Mia’Kate onto the pod to chat about all things filmmaking, makeup effects, and how she crafted this spooky season gem! This was an excellent convo. I felt like I was talking to an old friend and we couldn't stop talking horror.
    Do yourself a favor: go over to Shudder, use their free trial offer and start streaming Penny Lane is Dead right now.

    After watching Penny Lane go to her website and check out her short films: www.miakaterussell.com

    Enjoyed this episode? Stay connected!
    If you're not doing so already, make sure to follow Classic American Movies on Instagram for mini movie reviews, trivia, and behind-the-scenes updates!
    Also, head over to http://www.classicamericanmovies.com to check out my full-length, in-depth movie reviews and blog posts.

    👉 Follow me on Instagram
    👉 Visit my Website

    2 hr
  4. Ep. 117 - Insidious: Out of the Further

    Show notes

    The Insidious series is six movies strong and 15 years old. Really?
    From dental hygienist horror and endless living room forts to the tattooist mapping out plans on grapefruits, this movie is... well, it’s a Part 6! Is there still life in this $815 million franchise, or has it finally run out of steam? I discuss Amelia Eve’s striking resemblance to Naomi Watts, Lin Shaye’s glorious return as Elise, and whether "Cyrus" makes for a memorable villain. One thing is for sure: There will be another sequel.

    27 min
  5. Ep. 116 - The End of Oak Street (with 2nd 2nd AD Riley Flanagan)

    Show notes

    Review and interview!
    What happens when a quiet 1982 Michigan suburb is suddenly transported back to prehistoric times? You get The End of Oak Street—the intensely fun new film from David Robert Mitchell, the brilliant mind behind It Follows.
    Touted as the best dinosaur movie since 1993's Jurassic Park, this flick stars Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor navigating a neighborhood overrun by feathered dinos, giant bugs, and unexpected suburban drama. Somehow, it all works.“Oak Street” was filmed in Georgia and I knew the 2nd 2nd AD, Riley Flanagan, who was a former guest. On my 100th episode, he was promoting his business, ByADsforADs, a great tool for filmmakers and when I saw his name in the credits, I asked if he wanted to come back.
    So, kick back and hear my thoughts on the flick, followed by behind the scenes from one of the people who was there. Make sure to check out his app ByAdsForAds, available wherever you find finer apps.

    1 hr 9 min
  6. Ep. 115 - Tom McLoughlin Interview Uncut (Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives)

    Show notes

    Happy 40th Anniversary to Jason Voorhees!
    A little while ago, I decided to re-release older episodes that are uncut. Back when I first started podcasting, having sharp, finely trimmed episodes were all the rage. Since nothing is recorded that way, it needs to be edited. Now, everyone wants to hear everything about the interview, wrinkles and all. So, here are classic episodes of Classic American Movies: Uncut. Can you believe it's been four decades since “Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives” slashed its way into our hearts? When I first kicked off the podcast during the pandemic, I was interviewing legends left and right, but landing writer/director Tom McLoughlin was a total “pinch-me” moment! I’ll admit, my interview skills were a bit rough around the edges back then, but Tom was an absolute pro and on his A-game. It was such a treat to dive deep into the history and behind-the-scenes magic of this slasher classic.Ready for the ultimate fan experience? There’s a special Halloween screening happening this year at the actual camp where the movie was filmed! Don't lose your head—grab your tickets here
    After listening to the pod, check out the blog at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com ! If you think listening to me talk about movies is great, wait till you read my reviews.

    1 hr 16 min
  7. Ep. 114 - Uwe Boll (Citizen Vigilante)

    Show notes

    Uwe Boll is no stranger to controversy. I first heard of him about 20 years ago when he challenged his harshest critics to a boxing match. Well, he’s back in everyone’s sights with his latest film, Citizen Vigilante, due to it’s politically charging nature. Some recent interviews only focused on the politics. Others clearly never saw the movie and just wanted to attack him. However, I wanted to treat Uwe like how I would want to be treated and we just talked. Turns out he’s one of the nicest people I interviewed! Tune in as we discuss German food, bakeries, movies and more. Love him or hate him: Uwe Boll is always entertaining.

    If you're interested in seeing Citizen Vigilante, it's available to rent on Amazon Prime right now.

    If you're not doing so already, check out Classic American Movies on Instagram and check out my written reviews on www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com

    1 hr 21 min
  8. Ep. 113 - Young Washington

    Show notes

    I’m not a historian—I’m just a guy who loves movies—but I’ve got to say, this was an interesting ride. Before George Washington was the face on the dollar bill, he was a raw, unpolished surveyor-turned-commander taking an absolute ass-whipping from reality.
    What I really dig about this is the way it was made. Angel Studios is giving the big Hollywood machines a run for their money with this crowdfunded, indie approach, and honestly? That’s the most punk rock thing I’ve seen in cinema in years.
    Is it perfect? No. There are some noticeable issues with the sound and the AI-generated battle scenes, which I definitely have some thoughts on. But it’s never boring, and it gives you a gritty, human look at the pre-legend era of American history that you just don’t see often. If you’re looking for a patriotic flick that doesn’t just rehash the same old textbook stories, this is worth the ticket price.

    33 min
  9. Ep 112 - Jackass: Best and Last

    Show notes

    It’s been 26 years since Jackass first hit our screens, and I can’t believe we’re here. From the early days of Big Brother magazine to the insanity of Jackass: Best and Last, this group of idiots turned "getting the crap kicked out of each other" into an art form.
    They weren't just stuntmen; they kickstarted the DIY approach to entertainment that defines a generation. Whether you grew up watching them on MTV or you're just discovering the legacy, Best and Last feels like waiving goodbye to an old friend. I
    t’s finite, it’s funny, and yes, it’s a bit teary-eyed to see the crew hang it up.Critics are calling it a "fearless kind of genius" and honestly, they're not wrong. If you loved the show, the movies, and the chaos, you owe it to yourself to see this in theaters.

    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    39 min
  10. Ep. 111 - The Death of Robin Hood

    Show notes

    Forget the swashbuckling, tights, and the lighthearted folk hero we grew up with. This isn't the Errol Flynn classic. We’re looking at an aging, broken Hugh Jackman trying to survive in a medieval world that is, frankly, just as brutal as you’d imagine. It’s dark, it’s dirty, and it’s arguably the only "revisionist" film lately that doesn't feel like a total slog. It trades the myth for the man—a guy haunted by a lifetime of violence and just looking for a way out.
    It’s a far cry from the Saturday matinee legends, but if you’re tired of the swapping, hollow reboots, this might be the gritty, honest look at the character you didn't know you needed.

    Looking for that coffee that goes with your lifestyle? Strong Coffee Company brings a revolution to your coffee experience with its premium instant blends, designed for those who seek both convenience and health benefits. Each serving is enriched with 15g of high-quality protein, 5g of MCTs, and 250mg of adaptogens, including ashwagandha and Theanine. This ensures sustained energy, improved alertness, and a calming effect without jitters. Enjoy a nice 20% off discount with my promo code CAM. Or go to https://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/CAM to have the discount applied automatically.

    41 min
  11. Ep. 110 - Masters of The Universe (the best movie in theaters no one is watching)

    Show notes

    I’m back from the Underground Film Festival in Orlando, fresh from wining best feature script and I’m ready to talk about He-Man! Masters of the Universe is the best movie no one is watching in the theaters and I’m ready to talk about it. After Mattel missed the opportunity to make Star Wars toys, they were ready to try something fresh (well, kinda). The toys were a massive success, as well as the cartoon, which all quickly fell apart. Smash cut to 40 years later, Mattel is hot off of their success with Barbie and are ready to try another toy. Sadly, this one doesn’t have the same momentum. After listening to the pod, check out the blog at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com ! If you think listening to me talk about movies is great, wait till you read my reviews.
    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    35 min
  12. Ep. 109 - Backrooms (2026)

    Show notes

    If you haven’t seen Backrooms (2026) yet, you’re missing out on one of the most intriguing horror experiences in recent years. Directed by Kane Parsons, this film takes the viral creepypasta concept and turns it into a dread-filled, must-watch nightmare.
    With an 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and a massive box office draw, it’s proof that original, low-budget storytelling is becoming the future of film.
    My short film, “Bishop’s Day” is available to check out on YouTube, and make sure to check out my written reviews at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com

    33 min
  13. Ep 108 - Karsen Schovajsa (The Killing Cell; Dead Renegade Films)

    Show notes

    “The Killing Cell” is an awesome found footage film that’s been tearing up the festival circuit with awards and nominations! Writer/director/producer and actor Karsen Schovajsa and his crew pulled together a nostalgic horror flick that captures the same eerie energy as “Hell House LLC” and “Grave Encounters.” I was lucky enough to check out a screener, absolutely loved it, and had to bring Karsen onto the podcast to talk all about the making of this soon-to-be cult hit! Make sure to follow TheKillingCellMovie, DeadRenegadeFilms, ScreenSanctity (James Bessey, co-director)and Karsen_Thomas3 for updates on the film.

    If you aren’t already, please follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook. Also be sure to check out www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com for written reviews and more horror content.

    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    1 hr 6 min
  14. Ep 107 - Passenger (w/ special guest, 2nd AD Coalin Smith)

    Show notes

    ***This podcast contains light spoilers***
    If you miss the era of grimy 2000’s horror movies with practical effects, real locations, and wild behind-the-scenes stories, you should check out Passenger. Watching it felt like stumbling onto a lost horror flick from 20 years ago. Then while the credits were rolling, I spotted a familiar name — my old friend Coalin Smith as the 2nd AD. Naturally, I texted him immediately and asked if he wanted to come on the podcast to talk about what it was actually like making it … and thankfully, he said yes. So after my review, stick around for stories from behind the camera. Honestly, the behind-the-scenes stories might be just as entertaining as a movie itself.

    If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more!
    If you like the pod, then you'll love the blog! Check out my written reviews at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com

    1 hr 6 min
  15. Ep. 106 - Obsession

    Show notes

    It feels nice to finally have the podcast studio up and running. For my first film, I’m covering Curry Barker’s Obsession. Since seeing his first film, Milk & Serial , I knew Barker was someone special. What he can create with no money is amazing and I’ve said numerous times that if given the budget, he would be the next big name. Well, with about $750k, he made one kick ass horror flick.

    If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more!

    43 min
  16. Ep. 105 - John A. Russo Interview UNCUT (Night Of the Living Dead; Return of the Living Dead)

    Show notes

    As renovations are nearing their end, I figured I would release another un-cut episode! Arguably one the biggest name in zombie history, John A Russo is one of the last people alive who co-created “Night of the Living Dead.” I was head over heels listening to his stories, and I could have gone on for hours, but sadly, John only gave me 30 mins. This interview took a political turn that didn’t make the original cut, and listeners have noted that out convo ends abruptly. But, that’s how it was! Although the story of “Night” has been told thousands of times, this is the first time I have ever heard it first hand and I’ll cherish this memory forever. Check out some uncut Classics, and soon I’ll be dropping new episodes.
    If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more! Also, I decided to dabble in making my own slasher film called “Bishop’s Day”. Check out the Instagram page for updates.

    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    48 min
  17. Ep. 104 - Interview with the Chiodo Bros. (Killer Klowns From Outer Space; Ernest Scared Stupid)

    Show notes

    My next short, “The Dinner” has approved for crowdfunding at Seed&Spark! Check out the link here to learn how you can be a part of the film.

    Since I’m building my podcast studio, I’ve decided to unearth some old interviews and release them unedited. The Chiodo Bro’s were interviewed on June 23, 2020 and it truly was a lot of fun. Like a lot of people in their 40’s and older, I grew up watching “Klowns,” “Ernest Scared Stupid” and “Critters,” so this was like interviewing my childhood icons. The brothers talk in-depth about the history of the Klowns, and where all their inspirations come from. I had a lot of technical difficulties recording this episode, so I had to hack out the first 10 mins, but eventually it all worked out. At the time, there was no talk about a “KIller Klowns” reboot or sequel. So some of the information which is stated has changed.

    If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more! Also, I decided to dabble in making my own slasher film called “Bishop’s Day”. Check out the Instagram page for updates.

    Check out the blog at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com

    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. We’ve all had a little too much to drink and regretted it the next day. LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking, helping to minimize next-day discomfort and promote faster recovery. With their patent-pending blend of natural ingredients like Dihydromyricetin, Prickly Pear, Milk Thistle, vitamins B6 and 12, electrolytes and Ginger Root, LiQure Gummies will ensure you can drink like Bogart and wake up feeling like Bacall. Go to https://liqure.com/discount/CLASSIC to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    1 hr 27 min
  18. Ep. 103 - Mark Jones interview re-release (Leprechaun; Rumpelstiltskin)

    Show notes

    I had interviewed Mark Jones on June 15, 2020. During the pandemic, nearly every filmmaker I reached out to was eager to talk and loved the idea of the podcast. Mark Jones was one of my first interviews and after sending him an e-mail, he agreed to come on the pod. Although he was well known in the cult world, few really knew how much of a genius he was or know of his cultural impact. At the time of the interview, there was no talk of a “Leprechaun” 4K release, or a blu-ray stacked with special features and Jones explained to me that he had piles of unreleased footage, bloopers screen tests and more! All that was needed was demand from the fans and encouragement from podcasters. Jones was one of my favorite interviews and I re-released the episode every year around St. Patrick’s Day for everyone to pair with “Leprechaun.” Unlike previous releases, this one will be unedited so everyone can enjoy it in its entirety. After the episode aired, he wrote to me saying he loved it and encouraged me to keep interviewing and follow my passion. Rest In Peace , Mark. Your work was loved by generations and influenced many horror movie fans.

    If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more! Also, I decided to dabble in making my own slasher film called “Bishop’s Day”. Check out the Instagram page for updates. Check out the blog at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com as well.

    This episode is brought to you by Afuera Coffee. Want that natural next level flavor in your coffee? Afuera Coffee hand-selects their beans sourced directly from sustainable, certified Rainforest Alliance farms in Central and South America, primarily focusing on El Salvador. These regions' rich, volcanic soils infuse each batch with unique, vibrant flavors. Try it out with a nice 15% off your order when you use the code “Classic” or go to https://www.afueracoffee.com/discount/CLASSIC to have the code automatically applied.

    1 hr 10 min
  19. Ep. 102 - BS The Final Chapter

    Show notes

    The pod and blog are going to go dark because my wife and I are buying a new house and I'm building my own podcast studio! I figured I would chop up another BS episode until then for everyone to enjoy. So, bare with me as I get everything situated.
    Like my other episodes about BS, this is just my friends and I talking about things in general. No controversies, no hot takes, just us talking about life, movies, comedy, food, flowers, the Spartans, MK Ultra trials and more! If you’re not doing so already, please like and follow Classic American Movies on Instagram and Facebook. I do free movie giveaways, mini movie reviews and more! Also, I decided to dabble in making my own slasher film called “Bishop’s Day”. Check out the Instagram page for updates. Check out the blog at www.ClassicAmericanMovies.com as well!
    Looking for that coffee that goes with your lifestyle? Strong Coffee Company brings a revolution to your coffee experience with its premium instant blends, designed for those who seek both convenience and health benefits. Each serving is enriched with 15g of high-quality protein, 5g of MCTs, and 250mg of adaptogens, including ashwagandha and Theanine. This ensures sustained energy, improved alertness, and a calming effect without jitters. Enjoy a nice 20% off discount with my promo code CAM. Or go to https://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/CAM to have the discount applied automatically.

    48 min
  20. Ep. 101 - Ken MacLaughlin (We're So Dead; Christmas horror comedy)

    Show notes

    ***This episode contains light spoilers***
    I had met Ken while working on vertical movies in Georgia and I found out he had made a hilarious and violent Christmas restaurant flick called We’re So Dead. During the Atlanta Horror Film Festival in October I got the pleasure of checking it out and I loved it! We both won Best Local film (he, feature and me, short) and I had to bring him on to talk. Check out We’re So Dead on http://www.weresodeadmovie.com and use the first name of the actors for $2 off your purchase (Bitchy, Leanna, Goldyboy, or Jenna).
    This episode is brought to you by LiQure Gummies. Just in time for the holiday season, LiQure Gummies provides a convenient and simple way to support your body after a night of drinking. Go to http://www.LiQure.com/classic to enjoy a 20% off discount on your order or use code “classic” when checking out.

    1 hr 21 min