‘Weird Science’ With Bill Simmons and Kyle Brandt

Key Takeaways

"Weird Science" (1985) is rewatched, described as "bonkers" and a John Hughes "heat check."
The film explores 1980s teen movie tropes of male fantasy and creating ideal partners.
Anthony Michael Hall's career trajectory and typecasting are extensively analyzed.
Kelly LeBrock's impact, career path, and marriage to Steven Seagal are discussed.
Bill Paxton's performance as Chet is highlighted as a standout rewatchable character.
Hosts scrutinize the film's aging elements, narrative choices, and cultural references.

"Weird Science" is identified as part of a trend of "semi-deranged" 1985 teen movies.
Other examples from this period include "Better Off Dead," "Teen Wolf," and "Just One of the Guys."
The discussion notes a shift in teen movie themes after 1985, with mid-80s films often featuring magical women finding less conventional male protagonists, like in "Splash."

Hall's portrayal of Gary in "Weird Science" is questioned for being too "cool" for a "nerd" role.
His prolific early to mid-80s output includes multiple John Hughes films.
Hall reportedly turned down roles in "Pretty in Pink" and "Ferris Bueller," potentially limiting his career scope.
He was considered for Stanley Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket" for over six months before Matthew Modine took the "Joker" role.

LeBrock's early films include "Woman in Red," "Weird Science," and "Hard to Kill."
A theory posits her "perfect person" role in "Weird Science" influenced her attraction to Steven Seagal, whom she married.
Her performance as Lisa is praised as talented and charismatic, especially in the final scene where she improves the male leads.
"Weird Science" had a $7.5 million budget and grossed $38.9 million, receiving a positive review from Roger Ebert.

Chet, played by Bill Paxton, is a favorite character, described as a bully and "redneck puck with a shotgun."
Paxton reportedly auditioned for "The Real World" in the 1990s as a potential "instigator."
Chet's scenes, especially on the stairs attempting to make Gary vomit, are identified as "most rewatchable."
Despite limited screen time, Paxton's performance as Chet is praised for its significant impact.

The use of Shermer High School, a recurring John Hughes setting, is noted as having aged well.
Robert Downey Jr.'s early performance in "Weird Science" is debated for its apparent talent.
The special effects, including the chimney and party scenes, are surprisingly well-preserved for a 1985 film.
The "parents away" trope, seen also in "Risky Business," is contrasted with modern technology like Ring cameras.

The "Butch's Girlfriend Award for weak link" questions Lisa's lack of sexual engagement with the boys, deeming it unrealistic.
The name "Chet" is analyzed within a "Chad, Chet, Chaz" universe, associated with generally negative character traits.
Awards include best stun double-take by Anthony Michael Hall, best use of food/drink (the "icy"), and most cinematic shot (shower scene).
Kid Cudi's "Pursuit of Happiness" is named best needle drop over Oingo Boingo for a category.

The "What's Aged the Worst?" segment addresses whether 80s film references, like a "The Road Warrior" homage, resonate with modern audiences.
The 1980s reportedly allowed filmmakers more creative freedom, enabling extensive homages; the "Road Warrior" segment comprised 10% of "Weird Science."
The discussion notes how cultural context impacts the understanding of older film references.

Initial casting for Lisa included model Kelly Emberg, who left due to creative differences, and auditions by young Demi Moore and Robin Wright.
Anthony Michael Hall's choice to star in "Weird Science" over "National Lampoon's European Vacation" is deemed correct.
Supporting "that guy" actors include John Kapelos (Dino, custodian in "The Breakfast Club") and Britt Leach (Gary's dad).
Britt Leach's performance as Gary's dad is praised across "Weird Science" and other films like "Father of the Bride."

The film is critiqued for its PG-13 rating, with hosts arguing it should have been R-rated for its themes.
Nitpicks include the omission of the dominant 1985 Chicago Bears, despite the film's suburban Chicago setting.
Other nitpicks involve the bathroom scene logistics and the presence of two twin beds at the end of the film.
The discussion highlights how 1980s films navigated rating boundaries compared to later productions.

The car chase scene is criticized for its lack of narrative purpose, potentially to meet a runtime requirement.
Memorable items include Kelly LeBrock's jacket, sold for $25,000, and Wyatt's Playboy collection.
A defaced family portrait in Wyatt's house with Hitler mustaches is noted as a humorous detail.
Speculation arises about Lisa's post-movie life, including potential jobs as a gym teacher and romantic interests.