The VHS Strikes Back

Whatever Entertainment
  • 4.6 (24)
  • FILM REVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Nostalgic movie review show hosted by Whatever Entertainment team, Dave and Chris. The guys go back in time to review some wonderful and truly awful movies from the days before streaming and even DVD's and had to go to the video store to pick up the latest entertainment. If you want to email the show please contact us on: thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com

  1. Top Secret! (1984) | Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker Spy Comedy Chaos | VHSSB

    1D AGO

    Top Secret! (1984) | Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker Spy Comedy Chaos | VHSSB

    Top Secret! (1984) was chosen by Dave, and it arrived during a golden era for absurdist American comedy. Directed by the Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker team — Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker — the film followed the massive success of Airplane! (1980) as the trio continued refining their signature style of rapid-fire sight gags, visual jokes, and deadpan delivery. Rather than parodying a single film, the production blended elements of Cold War spy thrillers with the glossy style of Elvis-era musical films, creating a deliberately ridiculous mash-up that leaned fully into the trio’s love of relentless, layered comedy. The film also marked the first starring role for Val Kilmer, who was cast largely because of his musical ability as well as his comedic timing. Production took place primarily in the United Kingdom, with elaborate sets and carefully staged visual gags that often required precise choreography and multiple takes. The filmmakers invested heavily in practical effects and cleverly staged illusions to achieve some of the movie’s more elaborate jokes. While Top Secret! performed modestly at the box office compared to the team’s earlier success, it gradually developed a strong cult following, and today it’s widely regarded as one of the most densely packed gag comedies of the 1980s. TRAILER GUY PLOT SYNOPSIS From the creators of some of the most outrageous comedies ever made… comes a mission so ridiculous, it might actually work. When an all-American rock star suddenly finds himself caught in a world of secret agents, suspicious governments, and impossible missions, the result is chaos on an international scale. With danger around every corner and nonsense at every turn, nothing is quite what it seems. Top Secret! — the spy movie where the jokes come faster than the bullets. FUN FACTS Top Secret! was Val Kilmer’s film debut, launching the career of the future star of Top Gun and The Doors. Kilmer performed all of the singing himself, recording several full musical numbers for the film. The filmmakers created one famous scene by building an entire set backwards and having actors perform actions in reverse. The movie contains one of the highest joke-per-minute rates of any comedy film, packed with background gags and blink-and-you-miss-it jokes. Many of the film’s jokes parody 1950s Elvis Presley musicals, including the musical performances. The filmmakers encouraged audiences to watch the movie multiple times, knowing many jokes would be missed on a first viewing. Several gags in the film rely on carefully timed visual illusions, which required extensive rehearsal during production. The movie has become a cult favorite among comedy fans, often ranked alongside Airplane! and The Naked Gun. A number of jokes were edited differently in international versions of the film. The film’s layered humor means fans still discover new background jokes decades after its release. Support the Show If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leaving us a 5-star review (and a short comment) really helps more people discover the show. It’s quick, free, and makes a huge difference. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    56 min
  2. A View to a Kill (1985) | Roger Moore’s Final 007 Mission | VHSSB

    MAR 4

    A View to a Kill (1985) | Roger Moore’s Final 007 Mission | VHSSB

    A View to a Kill (1985) was chosen by Chris, and it marked a significant transitional moment for the long-running James Bond franchise. Produced by Albert R. Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson and directed by John Glen, the film was developed during a period when the series was balancing its established formula with the shifting tone of mid-1980s blockbuster cinema. With a reported budget of around $30 million, the production aimed to deliver classic Bond spectacle while maintaining the polished globe-trotting style audiences expected. Notably, the film became Roger Moore’s seventh and final appearance as 007, closing out the longest tenure of any Bond actor at the time. Principal photography took place across multiple international locations including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, reflecting the franchise’s continued commitment to large-scale, location-driven filmmaking. The production also leaned heavily into contemporary 1980s culture, most famously through its theme song performed by Duran Duran, which became one of the most commercially successful Bond themes ever released. Upon release, the film performed strongly at the global box office despite mixed critical reception. In the decades since, A View to a Kill has remained a notable entry in the Bond canon, often discussed both for its place at the end of the Roger Moore era and for its distinctly mid-80s tone and style. TRAILER GUY PLOT SYNOPSIS One agent. One mission. And a threat that could change the balance of power forever. When a ruthless new enemy emerges with ambitions that stretch far beyond ordinary crime, Britain’s most dangerous operative is called back into action. From high-stakes chases to globe-spanning danger, the mission will push him to the limit like never before. A View to a Kill — the name’s Bond… and the clock is ticking. FUN FACTS A View to a Kill features the only James Bond theme song to reach No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, thanks to Duran Duran. At age 57 during filming, Roger Moore was the oldest actor to portray James Bond in an official Eon production. The film includes scenes shot at the Eiffel Tower, marking one of Bond’s most memorable European set pieces. Christopher Walken became the first Academy Award winner to play a Bond villain in the official series. The movie was one of the highest-grossing films of 1985 worldwide, despite divided critical reviews. Grace Jones performed many of her own physical stunts, reinforcing her formidable on-screen presence. The title comes from an Ian Fleming short story, though the film’s plot is largely original. This was the final Bond film produced entirely during the Cold War era, before the franchise shifted tone in later entries. The movie’s San Francisco material has become particularly iconic among Bond location fans. Despite mixed reviews, the film maintains a strong nostalgia following among 1980s Bond audiences. Support the Show If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leaving us a 5-star review (and a short comment) really helps more people discover the show. It’s quick, free, and makes a huge difference. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1h 5m
  3. The Protector (1985) | Jackie Chan’s Gritty US Action Experiment | VHSSB

    FEB 25

    The Protector (1985) | Jackie Chan’s Gritty US Action Experiment | VHSSB

    The Protector (1985) was chosen by Greig, and it stands as one of the more unusual entries in Jackie Chan’s filmography — an attempt to firmly break him into the American action market during the mid-1980s. Directed by James Glickenhaus and produced by Golden Harvest in collaboration with U.S. partners, the film was conceived as a tougher, more hard-edged vehicle than Chan’s Hong Kong output. The production reflected a clear effort to reshape Chan’s screen persona for Western audiences, emphasizing a grittier tone and more conventional cop-movie structure compared to the acrobatic, comedy-infused style that had made him famous in Asia. Filming took place across New York City and Hong Kong, giving the movie an international scope that was relatively ambitious for the time. However, creative differences emerged between Chan and the production team, particularly regarding tone and action style. Chan was reportedly unhappy with the film’s direction and later took control of certain fight sequences for the Hong Kong release. Upon its theatrical debut, The Protector performed modestly but failed to fully launch Chan in the U.S. market as intended. In retrospect, the film is often viewed as an important transitional project — a fascinating snapshot of Hollywood’s early attempts to package Jackie Chan for Western audiences before his eventual global breakthrough in the 1990s. TRAILER GUY PLOT SYNOPSIS One city on the edge… one cop pushed too far… and one case that’s about to explode across continents. When a routine investigation spirals into something far more dangerous, a hard-hitting detective finds himself pulled into a deadly world of crime, corruption, and international danger. Outgunned and outnumbered, he’ll have to rely on his instincts, his fists, and sheer determination to finish the job. The Protector — justice doesn’t ask nicely. FUN FACTS The Protector was Jackie Chan’s second major attempt to break into the U.S. film market during the 1980s. The film exists in multiple cuts, including a Hong Kong version that differs noticeably from the U.S. theatrical release. Jackie Chan later cited the movie as a learning experience that influenced how he approached future Hollywood projects. The movie features some of Chan’s earliest English-language leading-role work in a U.S.-focused production. Many fans consider The Protector a curious hybrid between Hong Kong action cinema and 80s American cop thrillers. The film was released during a period when Hollywood was actively trying to import Hong Kong martial arts stars for Western audiences. Jackie Chan would not achieve major U.S. box office success until Rush Hour (1998) more than a decade later. The movie has developed a cult following among Jackie Chan completists, despite its mixed reception. Some action scenes were reworked for international versions, reflecting different market expectations. Today, The Protector is often discussed as an important stepping stone in Chan’s long road to Hollywood stardom. Support the Show If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leaving us a 5-star review (and a short comment) really helps more people discover the show. It’s quick, free, and makes a huge difference. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1h 3m
  4. Erotic Ghost Story (1990) | Hong Kong Fantasy, Ghosts & Late-Night VHS Energy | VHSSB

    FEB 18

    Erotic Ghost Story (1990) | Hong Kong Fantasy, Ghosts & Late-Night VHS Energy | VHSSB

    This week on The VHS Strikes Back, we dive into Erotic Ghost Story (1990), chosen by friend of the show John Hammond — a man clearly unafraid of wandering into the “back shelf” section of the video rental store. Directed by Lam Ngai Kai during the golden age of Hong Kong Category III cinema, this supernatural fantasy blends martial arts, folklore, horror and soft-focus seduction into one uniquely 90s experience. Released at a time when Hong Kong cinema was pushing boundaries with stylised ghost stories and adult-themed genre hybrids, Erotic Ghost Story arrived as part of a wave inspired by the success of films like A Chinese Ghost Story. With elaborate costumes, theatrical lighting, wire-work action and unapologetic late-night cable energy, this is exactly the kind of film you’d discover at 11:47pm with the volume turned suspiciously low. It’s mystical. It’s chaotic. It’s extremely 1990. Trailer Guy Plot Summary In a world… where fox spirits walk among us… Three beautiful spirits descend from the mountains with one mission: to experience mortal life. But when a power-hungry sorcerer discovers their presence, desire turns to danger… and temptation awakens forces beyond control. Magic will clash. Loyalties will be tested. Floorboards will creak ominously. This summer… seduction has a supernatural side. Erotic Ghost Story. You were watching it for the kung fu. Fun Facts Erotic Ghost Story was released in 1990 during the boom of Hong Kong Category III cinema, the local rating equivalent of adults-only material. The film blends Chinese folklore about fox spirits (huli jing) with martial arts choreography and supernatural horror. Director Lam Ngai Kai became known for stylised fantasy films that leaned heavily into theatrical lighting and elaborate costume design. The movie was part of a wave of sensual supernatural films following the commercial success of romantic fantasy ghost stories in late-80s Hong Kong cinema. Practical wire-work and in-camera effects were used for levitation and fight sequences — no CGI safety net here. The English export title was intentionally provocative to help the film stand out in international VHS markets. Category III films often relied on strong box office from late-night screenings and overseas rental sales. The combination of eroticism and traditional mythology made the film controversial but commercially viable at the time. The film developed a cult following among collectors of 90s Hong Kong fantasy cinema. Its blend of supernatural themes and martial arts action makes it a frequent inclusion in “so-bad-it’s-fascinating” VHS-era discussions. Support the Show If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leaving us a 5-star review (and a short comment) really helps more people discover the show. It’s quick, free, and makes a huge difference. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    55 min
  5. Sworn to Justice (1996) | Cynthia Rothrock’s 90s Martial Arts Vigilante Thriller | VHSSB

    FEB 11

    Sworn to Justice (1996) | Cynthia Rothrock’s 90s Martial Arts Vigilante Thriller | VHSSB

    Sworn to Justice (1996) was chosen by friend of the show and Patreon supporter Leigh, and is a prime example of mid-90s direct-to-video action thrillers built around martial arts credentials and late-night cable appeal. Produced by PM Entertainment — a studio known for churning out low-budget, high-concept action films — the movie was designed specifically for the booming VHS rental market rather than theatrical release. Director Paul Maslak leaned into the studio’s house style: fast-paced action, neon-lit cityscapes, and a blend of crime, thriller, and exploitation elements. The film was shot quickly and economically, typical of PM’s efficient production model, which prioritized practical stunts and tight schedules over polish or prestige. The production’s biggest selling point was its lead, Cynthia Rothrock, already a well-established martial arts star with multiple Hong Kong and American action credits. Her real-life fighting background allowed the filmmakers to stage fight scenes with minimal doubles, keeping the choreography grounded and physical. Filming took place largely around Los Angeles, using recognizable streets and interiors to stretch the budget while maintaining a contemporary urban feel. Like many PM Entertainment titles, Sworn to Justice found its audience through home video, cable rotation, and word of mouth, eventually earning cult status among fans of 90s action cinema and martial arts B-movies. Today, it’s remembered as a quintessential slice of direct-to-video action filmmaking — scrappy, stylish, and unapologetically of its era. Checkout Leigh on The Movie Vent. If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ Trailer Guy Plot Summary A city drowning in crime… a system that’s failed… and one woman who’s had enough. When the law can’t protect the innocent, justice goes underground. Trained to fight, driven by vengeance, and armed with nothing but her fists and her will, one relentless warrior takes the streets by storm — tearing through criminals, conspiracies, and anyone foolish enough to stand in her way. *Sworn to Justice* — no badge… no backup… no mercy. Fun Facts Sworn to Justice is often categorized as an “erotic thriller meets martial arts action” hybrid, a niche genre that was surprisingly popular in the mid-1990s video market. The film was released during the peak VHS rental era, when action titles like this regularly outperformed small theatrical releases in video stores. Cynthia Rothrock performs nearly all of her own fight choreography, showcasing authentic Tang Soo Do and karate techniques rather than stylized wire work. The movie blends martial arts with noir-style detective elements, giving it a darker tone compared to Rothrock’s earlier Hong Kong films. Several supporting cast members were real stunt performers, which helped make the fight scenes feel more physical and less choreographed. The film developed a late-night cable TV following on networks like USA Network and HBO Zone throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. Rothrock fans often rank this among her most “adult-oriented” American roles, marking a tonal shift from her earlier PG-13 action vehicles. The movie features a synth-heavy 90s action score, typical of direct-to-video thrillers of the era. Collectors consider original VHS and DVD releases of the film minor cult items within martial arts movie circles. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    56 min
  6. Red Sonja (1985) | 80s Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Cult Classic | VHSSB

    FEB 4

    Red Sonja (1985) | 80s Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Cult Classic | VHSSB

    Red Sonja (1985) was chosen by Dave, and it represents one of the most high-profile attempts to expand the sword-and-sorcery boom that followed the success of the early 1980s fantasy epics. Produced by Dino De Laurentiis and directed by Richard Fleischer, the film was developed as a companion piece to the popularity of Conan-style fantasy cinema, drawing inspiration from the Marvel Comics version of the character rather than directly adapting Robert E. Howard’s original prose stories. The production was mounted as an international co-production, with a sizeable budget for the genre and a clear goal of building a new fantasy franchise centered around a female action lead — something still relatively rare in big-budget fantasy filmmaking at the time. Filming took place primarily in Italy, using large-scale practical sets, location shooting, and practical effects typical of mid-1980s fantasy productions. The movie featured a mix of established stars and European genre actors, and leaned heavily on physical stunt work and elaborate costume design rather than visual effects, which were still limited for fantasy filmmaking at the time. Despite heavy promotion and strong name recognition tied to the wider sword-and-sorcery trend, the film struggled critically and commercially on release. However, over time, Red Sonja has developed a cult following, particularly among fans of 1980s fantasy cinema, and is often discussed as part of the era’s broader push toward larger-scale, effects-driven fantasy storytelling. If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ Trailer Guy Plot Summary In an age of dark magic… one warrior will rise to defy it. Forged by tragedy and driven by vengeance, a lone fighter sets out across a brutal fantasy world where tyrants rule and power is taken by force. With steel in her hand and fire in her heart, she will face impossible odds, deadly warriors, and ancient forces that threaten to consume everything. Red Sonja — where legends are born… and only the strongest survive. Fun Facts Red Sonja was Brigitte Nielsen’s film debut, launching her short but memorable 1980s action-fantasy career. Arnold Schwarzenegger appears in the film as Lord Kalidor, rather than Conan, due to character licensing and rights issues. The movie is based primarily on the Marvel Comics version of Red Sonja, not directly on Robert E. Howard’s original literary character. The film’s fantasy score was composed by Ennio Morricone, one of the most famous film composers of all time. Arnold Schwarzenegger later joked in interviews that he used Red Sonja as a way to punish his children — by making them watch it. The film has become a cult favorite among 80s fantasy fans, despite its mixed reputation on release. Several weapons and props from the film were reused in other European fantasy productions during the mid-1980s. The movie was heavily marketed through fantasy magazines and comic-book advertising, targeting existing genre fans. Red Sonja is often grouped with films like Krull, Beastmaster, and Ladyhawke as part of the mid-80s fantasy boom. The character of Red Sonja has continued to appear in comics, reboots, and reboot discussions for decades, keeping the film culturally relevant. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1h 2m
  7. Pumping Iron (1977) | Muscles, Ego & the Birth of Gym Culture | VHSSB

    JAN 28

    Pumping Iron (1977) | Muscles, Ego & the Birth of Gym Culture | VHSSB

    George Butler and Robert Fiore, the film was conceived at a time when bodybuilding was still a niche subculture, largely unknown to mainstream audiences. The production followed key figures in the bodybuilding world in the lead-up to the 1975 Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe competitions, with the filmmakers aiming to humanise the athletes and demystify the sport. Shot on a relatively small budget, the documentary combined cinéma vérité techniques with carefully staged interviews, helping to create a more dramatic and accessible presentation than traditional sports films of the era. The production became particularly notable for how it shaped public perception of bodybuilding, largely through its editing and character-focused storytelling. Pumping Iron played a significant role in launching Arnold Schwarzenegger into mainstream celebrity, positioning him as a charismatic and media-savvy figure beyond competitive bodybuilding. Upon release, the film found unexpected success in arthouse cinemas and on college campuses, eventually crossing over into wider pop culture. Its long-term impact is difficult to overstate: Pumping Iron helped popularise fitness culture in the late 1970s and 1980s and is frequently cited as a foundational text for modern bodybuilding, gym culture, and sports documentaries alike. If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ Trailer Guy Plot Summary From a world few people understood… came a film that changed how strength was seen forever. Inside the gyms, under the lights, and behind the poses, a group of elite competitors prepare their bodies and their minds for the ultimate test. It’s a journey of discipline, ego, rivalry, and obsession — where confidence is as important as muscle, and winning is a state of mind. Pumping Iron — where legends are forged, limits are tested… and the body becomes the battlefield Fun Facts Pumping Iron (1977) is widely credited with bringing bodybuilding into mainstream pop culture for the first time. The film helped turn Arnold Schwarzenegger into a global celebrity, paving the way for his Hollywood acting career. Pumping Iron is frequently listed among the greatest sports documentaries ever made by outlets like ESPN and Rolling Stone. The movie popularised now-iconic gym phrases and bodybuilding terminology that are still referenced today. Many modern fitness influencers and bodybuilders cite Pumping Iron as their first exposure to competitive bodybuilding. The documentary blends real competition footage with stylised interviews, a format that influenced later sports films. Pumping Iron performed unexpectedly well in arthouse cinemas, an unusual achievement for a niche sports documentary. The film played a major role in the 1970s fitness boom, contributing to the rise of commercial gyms worldwide. Several scenes from Pumping Iron are still used in motivational workout videos and gym culture montages. Nearly five decades later, Pumping Iron remains a cultural touchstone for bodybuilding, fitness, and sports cinema. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1h 26m
  8. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze (1991) | Peak TMNT Mania & 90s Nostalgia | VHSSB

    JAN 21

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze (1991) | Peak TMNT Mania & 90s Nostalgia | VHSSB

    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze (1991) was chosen by Patreon supporter Gareth, and it represents a very deliberate shift in tone and approach from the original 1990 film. Following the massive commercial success of the first movie, New Line Cinema moved quickly to produce a sequel that would appeal more directly to younger audiences. This resulted in a noticeably lighter, more comedic production, with strict limitations placed on violence and darker elements after parental groups raised concerns about the original film’s intensity. Director Michael Pressman replaced Steve Barron, and the creative mandate was clear: brighter visuals, broader humor, and a more Saturday-morning-cartoon-friendly feel. The production once again relied on Jim Henson’s Creature Shop to bring the Turtles to life, though the suits were redesigned to allow for improved mobility and clearer facial expressions. Filming took place primarily in North Carolina, with large soundstage work used to accommodate more elaborate set pieces and controlled environments. The movie also leaned heavily into merchandising synergy, closely aligning its release with toy lines, tie-in products, and promotional partnerships. While critically divisive upon release, The Secret of the Ooze was a significant box-office success and stands as a textbook example of early-90s franchise filmmaking — where commercial considerations, brand management, and audience accessibility increasingly shaped creative decisions. If you enjoy the show and would like to support us, we have a Patreon ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Referral links also help out the show if you were going to sign up: ⁠⁠⁠NordVPN⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠NordPass⁠⁠⁠ Trailer Guy Plot Summary Heroes in a half-shell… are back — and this time, things are about to get oozy. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles return with bigger laughs, louder villains, and a mysterious new substance that could change everything. As old enemies resurface and new threats rise, the Turtles must band together, sharpen their skills, and fight to protect the city they call home. *Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze* — powered up, totally radical, and ready to kick shell. Fun Facts Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II was released at the peak of TMNT mania, when the franchise dominated cartoons, toys, comics, and fast-food promotions worldwide. The film introduced new Turtle allies and villains that were created specifically to expand the movie universe rather than directly adapt comic storylines. Vanilla Ice’s song “Ninja Rap” was written exclusively for the movie and became a pop-culture time capsule of early-90s hip-hop crossover marketing. The movie was one of the highest-grossing independent films of 1991, despite receiving mixed critical reviews. Many of the film’s stunt performers were professional martial artists, including members of the Hong Kong stunt community. The Turtles’ signature weapons appear far less frequently than fans expected, becoming a frequent talking point among viewers. The Secret of the Ooze was heavily promoted through pizza-brand tie-ins, reinforcing the Turtles’ long-standing connection to pizza culture. Over time, the film has become a nostalgia favorite for fans who grew up during the early 1990s TMNT boom, often remembered as the “most quotable” entry in the original trilogy. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/vhsstrikesback⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    1h 6m
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4.6
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Nostalgic movie review show hosted by Whatever Entertainment team, Dave and Chris. The guys go back in time to review some wonderful and truly awful movies from the days before streaming and even DVD's and had to go to the video store to pick up the latest entertainment. If you want to email the show please contact us on: thevhsstrikesback@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    Whatever Entertainment
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    356
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Whatever Entertainment
  • Show Website
    The VHS Strikes Back

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