The Rocketeer

Strap in for a high-flying deep dive into The Rocketeer (1991), the cult classic Disney adventure that brought pulp heroics, jetpack action, and golden-age nostalgia roaring back to the screen. In this episode, we’re joined by special guest @MathewDRhys to explore why 1990s audiences were suddenly obsessed with 1930s and 40s pulp heroes, from The Shadow to The Phantom to this helmeted rocket man. We break down what made The Rocketeer work, what held it back at the box office, and how Joe Johnston’s direction helped shape the blueprint for future superhero films. If you love practical effects, retro futurism, or underdog Hollywood stories, this one’s for you.