Arena (1989): Let's Punch Monsters in the Face

What makes Arena a fine bit of 1980s video store era fun?Because we can't watch envelope-pushing, audience challenging films at all times, I present to you Arena.Some reviewers have called it Rocky in Space. I call it big white guy punching rubber monsters in the face.For those of us with nostalgia for the video store, VHS era, Arena brings you back to the practical effects-rich schlocky sci-fi of the 80s and early 90s.Written by Danny Bilson and Paul De Meo (Trancers, The Rockateer) and distributed by Charles Band's Empire Pictures, it's not quite a well-known cult film but has a little bit of love out there still burning bright.In this episode, I talk the merits of fighting in kneepads, an adult diaper, and a man-bra; knock-off Mos Eisley Cantina patrons, and the film's pure fun factor.Directed by Peter Manoogian. Written by Danny Bilson and Paul De Meo. Starring Paul Satterfield, Hamilton Camp, and Claudia Christian.Connect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com