Magic at the Movies

Contact the Show!Mike takes the show on the road to Elk Grove Village to sit down with Smash Cut Cinema and F This Movie host Patrick Bromley to talk double features… and this one’s a brain-bender.Two films. Same year (1997). Two completely different Paul Andersons.🎬 Boogie Nights (Paul Thomas Anderson) 🚀 Event Horizon (Paul W.S. Anderson)Yes. This is real. Yes. It’s happening.Smash Cut Cinema’s latest double feature lands May 16 at 7PM, and if this pairing (and the rest of the discussion on this podcast) tells you anything, it’s that the next ones might get even more unhinged.Love movies? You’ll love this episode.🎟️ Get tickets before 5/16: https://classiccinemas.com/f/smash-cut-double-feature-boogie-nights-event-horizon/2315🎧 Check out Patrick’s F This Movie: https://www.fthismovie.com/

Contact the Show!Mike sits down with Alan Gilbertson, who joined Classic Cinemas 36 years ago after already establishing himself as a projectionist in the industry.Now, on the verge of retirement, Alan looks back at a career that spans one of the most transformative eras in cinema exhibition.From carbon arcs and hand-threading 35mm film… to today’s high-contrast laser projection and object-based sound, the evolution didn’t arrive all at once. It unfolded steadily, reshaping the moviegoing experience—and helping bring Classic Cinemas to the standard it represents today.Sit back, listen, and take a journey through where we’ve been, the experience we deliver now, and what the future of cinema may hold.

Contact the Show!This week on MATM, Mike and Jim dive headfirst into the world of cinematic sound, THX trailers that rattled your ribcage, and the surprisingly tangled hyperspace lanes connecting Lucasfilm, Star Wars, film edits, and somehow... Seth Rogen.In conjunction with the Downers Grove Historical Society, Jim is premiering a new documentary exploring the life and contributions of Tomlinson Holman, the legendary audio pioneer behind THX. As part of Lucasfilm, THX became the gold standard for theatrical and home audio throughout the 1990s, permanently reshaping how audiences experience movies both in theatres and at home. If you’ve ever felt your seat tremble before a movie even started, you’ve already met Tomlinson Holman’s legacy.The documentary premieres Tuesday, 4/29 at 7PM CST at the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove.Join us for the podcast, then experience the documentary on the big screen if you can. Some stories deserve to be heard properly.

Contact the Show!CinemaCon 2026 brought out the stars—Mike was there (along with Jim) to witness the glory of modern Hollywood. From the latest packed studio slates to unforgettable stage moments featuring celebrity royalty like Tom Cruise, Steven Spielberg, Robert Downey Jr., Nicole Kidman, Christopher Nolan...even Snoop Dogg, this episode dives into everything coming soon to Classic Cinemas via our big annual industry event.Plus, a few stories you won’t find in any press releases—including a run-in with James Cameron and a near-miss sprint to catch a flight home.

Contact the Show!While we’re in Las Vegas taking in everything CinemaCon has to offer, we’re getting a front-row seat to the movies, stars, and cinema tech that the studios and the industry have in store for us here at Classic Cinemas.We’ll be back next week with a huge update on everything we saw (and everything we’re allowed to report on).In the meantime, enjoy Mike’s dispatch—straight from the casino floor. 🎙️

Contact the Show!Mike returns with a look at April anniversaries, highlighted by a major milestone: the 90th anniversary of Classic Cinemas’ Lake Theatre in Oak Park.He dives into the story of the Lake and the thoughtfully curated anniversary series that celebrates it—beginning with Modern Times, a silent-era classic that sets the stage for 90 years of moviegoing. From there, the lineup travels through the decades, building toward a powerful closing run: the visionary sci-fi of Blade Runner, the genre-defining Scream, the blockbuster landmark The Dark Knight, and culminating with Sinners.It’s a series that doesn’t just revisit great titles—it charts the evolution of the theatrical experience itself, all on the screen where generations have come to the movies. JOIN US! 

Contact the Show!We welcome Mike back to the driver’s seat 🎬After a few months off—plus a new baby and his first move in 17 years—Mike is settling in… and spending a lot of time deciding which movie posters make the cut.There are 8 spots. He has about 100,000 poster options.See if you can keep up—or offer a better pick. 👀He also dives into this week’s hits hitting Classic Screens as soon as TODAY, including the triumphant arrival of Mario Galaxy. 🎮✨

Contact the Show!Hip hip hooray—100 episodes! 🎉To celebrate, guest host Mark Mazrimas and CEO Chris Johnson welcome back Mike Schindler from paternity leave, following the arrival of his new baby girl. After nearly five months behind the mic, Mark hands the reins back as the trio comes together for a milestone episode.They dive into all things movies, including the strong opening of Project Hail Mary, this week’s new releases like They Will Kill You, and a look ahead to upcoming titles including The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, The Devil Wears Prada 2, and Chris’s pick for a summer “all the feels” standout, Power Ballad.Join the team as they celebrate 100 episodes, welcome Mike back, and give a well-earned thank you to Mark for an incredible run. And to all our listeners—thank you for being part of the journey and sharing the love of movies with us. 🎬

Contact the Show!Just one episode away from the big 100th episode (and the long-awaited return of Mike Schindler), Mark sits down with Classic Cinemas’ new Director of Operations, Daniel Alleman, for a conversation rooted in operational excellence and a shared love of movies.Daniel shares his journey to Classic Cinemas, what excites him about stepping into the role, and the opportunities he sees ahead across our theatres. Along the way, the two swap favorite movie memories and dig into what’s coming next on the big screen.Plus, thoughts on this week’s releases, including Project Hail Mary and Ready or Not 2.

Contact the Show!With Mike Schindler (still) on paternity leave, Mark welcomes Special Ops Director Randy Pollock to the mic for a stroll down memory lane as Oscar season approaches. Randy and Mark swap stories from years of red carpet experiences, including celebrity encounters with Tom Cruise, Paul Newman, and an under-the-weather Robert De Niro.The conversation also circles back to this week’s films, Reminders of Him and Undertone, before wrapping up with the announcement of a HUGE take-home popcorn bag (only $9.99), and now available at all Classic Cinemas locations.

Contact the Show!Today on the podcast, Mark, still holding down the fort for Mike, sits down with one of our long-tenured General Managers, Bob Parella of Classic Cinemas La Grange XQ, for a conversation that blends movie passion, theatre memories, and a little exhibition philosophy.Bob shares what keeps him motivated after all these years in the business, his go-to movie snack, and what will keep him coming back to the theatre as a guest in the months ahead. Along the way, he offers personal and fun anecdotes from his time in the theatres, proving that even a seasoned “younger, old-timer” can always deliver fresh energy to the conversation.They also unpack the excitement surrounding a few flicks Bob is looking forward to, like the highly anticipated biopic Michael, the gamer-fueled action of Mortal Kombat 2, and this week’s releases of Hoppers and Maggie Gyllenhaal’s The Bride!Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the movie business through the eyes of our younger old-timer: Bob Parella.

Contact the Show!Mark is still in the host chair and welcomes longtime friend and film industry insider Dave Sikich for a love letter to one of Hollywood’s most recognizable backlots: Chicago.From The Blues Brothers and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off to The Fugitive and The Dark Knight, this movie-loving duo reels through the films that turned our streets, skylines, and neighborhoods into cinematic icons. Along the way, they explore what makes Chicago such a powerful backdrop, why directors keep coming back, and how the city itself often steals the scene.If you love movies, love Chicago, or maybe you’re just Chi-curious… this episode proves our city is more than a location. It’s the star.

Contact the Show!With Mike still out on paternity leave, Mark once again steps up to the mic, joined by his favorite librarian and resident literary brain, Jessi Wakefield. Together, they turn the page on Hollywood’s ongoing love affair with the written word.From this week’s releases Wuthering Heights and Crime 101 to a 2026 lineup packed with page-to-screen heavyweights like Project Hail Mary, Verity, and Homer’s The Odyssey, these well-read film fans dig into why great stories keep finding a second life on the big screen.What makes a novel adaptation-worthy? What gets lost, what gets elevated, and why does literature remain one of cinema’s richest story mines? It’s a spirited, book-smart conversation where storytelling takes center stage and no dog-eared page is left unturned. 📚🎬

Contact the Show!With Mike still on baby duty, Mark Mazrimas steps into the host chair this week, joined by our resident office Galentines and rom-com authorities, Beth and Heather. Together, they share their all-time favorite romantic comedies, their Valentine’s Day plans, and the timeless movie moments that still make hearts skip a beat.The conversation revisits classics like About Last Night, When Harry Met Sally, and Jerry Maguire, before turning up the heat for a look at the sweeping passion of the upcoming release, Wuthering Heights.Whether you’re planning a date night, a Galentine’s outing, or just in the mood for a great love story, this episode is packed with romance, nostalgia, and plenty of cinematic chemistry. ❤️🎬

Contact the Show!With Mike out on baby duty (still), Mark Mazrimas steps in this week as we dig into the critically acclaimed Send Help, a darkly comic survival horror that strands its characters on a deserted island. Mark takes a deep dive into what makes director Sam Raimi uniquely suited to tackle this twisted premise, tracing the creative DNA through standout films like Evil Dead, Spider-Man, A Simple Plan, and other defining entries that have cemented Raimi’s place among the directing elite. Join us for a thoughtful look at the filmmaker behind the madness.

Contact the Show!With Mike still out on baby duty, Mark makes a call to LA LA Land to catch up with dear friend, author, and film expert Mike McClellan. (Please excuse the call audio quality… that one’s on Jim.)The timing couldn’t be better. With the Oscars just around the corner, there are plenty of smart takes, predictions, and insights to help you sharpen your pencils, stack your ballots, and play along at home. 🏆✏️Plus, a look ahead at what’s opening this week. Iron Lung and Send Help are shaping up to be some very fun popcorn-time movies. 🍿

Contact the Show!With Mike Schindler still on baby duty (and sleep being but a distant memory), Mark and Randy seize control of the microphones and celebrate 100 years of movie anniversaries. This episode looks ahead to the films turning many a milestone age in 2026 — including Shrek, Rocky, Mission: Impossible, and Crocodile Dundee just to name a few. Expect deep trivia, questionable impressions, and personal stories pulled from a combined 100 years in the movie business (yes, really). Things get even stranger when a “special musical guest” crashes the studio. 🎶🍿 Join us as we honor the movies that shaped generations — and are still filling theatres today.

Contact the Show!Mark sits down with podcast producer and certified movie nut Jim Toth to break down the very best of 2025 at the movies — from the films that kicked off the year to the standouts still lighting up screens in early 2026.With awards season approaching, the duo reflects on what turned out to be a terrific year for film distribution, celebrating the hits, the surprises, and the films that kept audiences coming back. From F1 roaring off the starting line to Sinners, Weapons, and plenty of pulse-pounding thrills in between, nothing is off the table.They also dig into this week’s schedule, debate favorites, make a few bold calls for the year’s best, and share plenty of laughs along the way.Join us for a lively look back at a year full of great movies, memorable moments, and why 2025 reminded us just how fun going to the movies can be. 🎬🍿

Contact the Show!With Mike still out, Mark takes the mic and sits down with Classic Cinemas CEO/CPE (Chief Popcorn Eater,) Chris Johnson, to talk about his favorite subject: movies. Together, these two industry insiders break down what could make 2026 a banner year at the box office, from bold new IP to franchise heavy-hitters.They trade predictions on which films may soar past expectations and share the titles they’re most excited to see hit the big screen, including Project Hail Mary, The Bride, Supergirl, Scream 7, Toy Story 5, and Wuthering Heights, just to name a few. With week-after-week releases shaping up to form one of the deepest and most entertaining slates in recent memory, the conversation explores whether 2026 has the makings of a true 10 billion-dollar-plus year for cinema.We’ll pop the popcorn. You stop by for your favorites!

Contact the Show!Many of us grew up with Rob Reiner’s films. In light of his passing, we wanted to take time to revisit what he gave us, the stories, the performances, and the moments that shaped how we watch movies. Today, Mark sits down with Randy to talk about how Rob Reiner’s films have impacted their generation of movie-going. 

Contact the Show!Just in time for the holidays, we’re unwrapping a previously recorded episode we’ve been saving for something a little… different. Back in September...we hosted a private screening at the historic Tivoli Theatre for social media influencer Tyler Patterson, featuring Stanley Kubrick’s famously unconventional “holiday classic,” Eyes Wide Shut.Mike makes the case for why this cult favorite belongs in the seasonal conversation, while the duo digs into the experience of seeing Kubrick’s final film on the big screen, the Tivoli’s timeless atmosphere, and what it means to curate movie moments that surprise, challenge, and spark conversation. It’s festive, it’s provocative, and it’s the kind of Christmas content you won’t find under just any tree. 🎄🎬Check out Tyler's visit at https://www.tiktok.com/@_ty_patterson_/video/7551527012741975327

Contact the Show!Mark (once again bravely filling in for Mike) welcomes Angelique Barthel from Variety of Illinois Children’s Charity to share details on this year’s meaningful fundraiser. The conversation spotlights the Avatar: Fire and Ash collectible pins now available at Classic Cinemas, with 100% of the $3 donation — or more, for those feeling extra generous — going directly to support children with disabilities across Illinois.Along the way, the group chats about upcoming releases like SpongeBob and The Housemaid, and swaps stories from the road delivering donated items straight into the hands of the families who need them most — a reminder of just how powerful a little movie magic can be when it meets community generosity.

Contact the Show!After last week’s internet-melting controversy — Mike’s scorched-earth campaign to include Contagion in the canon of holiday movies — the guys return to restore order and festive cheer.With Mike still on the bench, Mark steps in as moderator and ringmaster, guiding Jim and Randy through a spirited, heartfelt, and occasionally chaotic showdown of their Top Three Holiday Films.From timeless staples like Home Alone, A Christmas Story, Miracle on 34th Street, and A Christmas Carol, to the personal favorites that make the season magical for each of them, every pick is defended with gusto, nostalgia, and just enough good-natured rivalry to keep things spicy.It’s a warm, funny, and debate-filled sleigh ride—perfect for anyone who loves holiday movies, strong opinions, and friends who aren’t afraid to argue about both.

Contact the Show!Mike is back and joins Mark for an in-depth exploration of Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair, Quentin Tarantino’s ambitious attempt to stitch Volumes 1 and 2 into a single, uninterrupted cinematic experience. In this episode, they dive into Mike’s longtime obsession with the films, analyze Tarantino’s storytelling choices, and discuss how the combined version changes the pacing, tone, and impact of the saga. Whether you’re a die-hard Kill Bill fan or a lover of bold filmmaking experiments, this episode offers insights, fun anecdotes, and plenty of movie passion. Oh yes...and a Defcon level detour into why "Contagion" indeed IS a Christmas movie!

Contact the Show!This week on the show, Classic's Head Chief, Chris Johnson joins Mark Mazrimas (guest-hosting for Mike!) to talk all things Thanksgiving, including his best pick... Zootopia 2 — the family holiday hit galloping into theatres this Thanksgiving! Judy, Nick, and a brand-new mystery are bringing big laughs and even bigger heart to the holiday break.But that’s not all… Mark and Chris also dig into the full slate of festive films coming your way. So as soon as you set down the stuffing, it’ll be time to PASS THE POPCORN — because Thanksgiving is MOVIE TIME! Tune in for the inside scoop on the movies you won’t want to miss this holiday season.

Contact the Show!Mark (sitting in for Mike again) joins Randy Pollock for a deep dive into Wicked: For Good, sharing early reactions and what audiences can expect. The duo also unpacks Pope Leo’s recent call for everyone to return to the movies — plus his four favorite films, which just happen to be favorites around here, too. Feeling inspired, Mark rounds out the episode with a look at the special-event repertory titles screening through the holidays, that aren't all holiday films. Join us!

Contact the Show!Guest host Mark Mazrimas sits down with Mike Balsamo — the voice and spirit behind Christmas at the Tivoli — to talk about the magic of this long-running holiday tradition in Downers Grove. As the host and leader of the annual sing-along, Mike shares stories about the mighty Wurlitzer organ, the festive audiences who travel from ALL OVER CHICAGO to attend, and what keeps this event so special year after year.This season’s lineup includes timeless favorites like White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, and The Polar Express — each bringing holiday cheer to the beautifully restored Tivoli Theatre. From laughter to music to community connection, it’s a heartwarming look at what makes a Classic Cinemas Christmas truly one of a kind.

Contact the Show!Mike kicks things off with Classic Cinemas’ own Mark Mazrimas to talk Predator: Badlands and the legacy of sci-fi’s deadliest hunters. Then, vintage monster expert Mike Balsamo joins the conversation to trace the origins and evolution of cinema’s greatest “creature” monsters — from Dracula and Frankenstein to Godzilla’s thunderous reign and King Kong’s stop-motion wonder. Together, they journey through decades of monster movie magic — from Alien to The Thing — exploring that indescribable fear (and thrill) that still lurks just beyond the theatre door.

Contact the Show!Filling in for Mike, Mark Mazrimas welcomes Classic Cinemas CEO/CPE Chris Johnson for a lively conversation about Springsteen: Deliver Me to Nowhere and the decades of music biopics that paved the way. From the lip-syncing legends of the ’80s to today’s actors who master the vocals and guitar riffs of their heroes, the music biopic has become a powerful way to rediscover the artists who shaped generations. Whether it’s Springsteen, Queen, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, or Bob Dylan, these films keep the music—and the mystique—alive for new audiences.

Contact the Show!Mark and Randy take over the mic for a deep dive into the evolution of movie trailers — from the shocking suspense of Psycho to the blockbuster buzz of Jaws and Alien. They rewind all the way to Citizen Kane and Invasion of the Body Snatchers, celebrate the charm of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and even trace the birth of the post-credit teaser. It’s a fun, fast-paced trip through decades of hype, horror, and Hollywood history.

Contact the Show!Join Mike and special guest hosts Randy Pollock and Mark Mazrimas as they revisit the extraordinary career of Diane Keaton—actress, director, and trailblazer. From the neurotic charm of Annie Hall to the fearless authenticity of her later roles, this retrospective celebrates how Keaton redefined what it meant to be a leading lady—and became a lasting role model for the modern woman in Hollywood.

Contact the Show!Mike may be out this week, but we’ve got a killer duo stepping in! Mark Mazrimas and his daughter Sara Frandsen join Magic at the Movies to celebrate Halloween — and spotlight some of the creepy programming Mike lined up for the season. Together they dive into the history of the jump scare, from classics like House on Haunted Hill and Wait Until Dark to modern chillers like Smile, It Follows, and Carrie. 🎃 Spoilers be damned, we’re unpacking the best shocks, shrieks, and perfectly timed scares from the masters of horror. Check your local Classic Cinemas location to see what we have in store for your Shock-tober jump scares!!

Contact the Show!Classic monsters, cult favorites, and fresh frights — this year’s Halloween lineup at Classic Cinemas has it all. With Fright Night, Carrie, and John Carpenter’s Halloween side by side with modern chills like Shaun of the Dead, Donnie Darko, and The Black Phone 2, there’s a scare for every taste. And yes, we’re even closing the season with a Twilight Saga marathon that runs right through Halloween night. Mike guides us through the maze of movies, dates, and locations so you can focus less on what’s playing where and more on saving your screams for the theatre. Visit classiccinemas.com for the full showtime details — if you dare.

Contact the Show!Film lover Mark Mazrimas joins Mike to reflect on Robert Redford’s remarkable contributions to cinema. From iconic performances to the founding of Sundance, Redford’s influence runs deep. Mark also shares a personal memory from his early days at Classic Cinemas and the special connection founder Willis Johnson had to a Sydney Pollock–directed Redford film. Thanks, Robert Redford — in our eyes, you changed cinema and left it in a way better place than you found it.

Contact the Show!With fall in the air in Chicagoland—and that unmistakable combo of pigskin and melted cheese—our movie crew dives into the best football films across the generations. Will you be celebrating with an end zone dance, or throwing a challenge flag? Mike and his guest Randy Pollock break down this week’s new releases—Jordan Peele’s HIM and Angel Studios’ The Senior—and see how they measure up against all-time classics like Heaven Can Wait, The Blind Side, and Jerry Maguire. Huddle up and catch the team’s picks…will we score a touchdown, or fumble on yours?

Contact the Show!This week, Mike cracks open a listener letter from Nigel and somehow spins it into a full-blown PT Anderson appreciation hour. From Magnolia to Punch-Drunk Love, There Will Be Blood to The Master, Mike gushes over the brilliance of Anderson’s canon while tying it all back to our most-anticipated release, One Battle After Another. And because it’s Mike, the journey also detours through a story about seeing Shrek the Third at the Cinerama Dome in LA. Only Mike Schindler, and only on Magic at the Movies.

Contact the Show!Randy and Mike are back together again, and this time they’re tackling the pop culture earthquake of the moment: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s surprise engagement announcement. Naturally, they celebrate the news the only way they know how—by cobbling together a “Top 10” list of wedding films. The catch? Their so-called top ten somehow comes up one short, thanks to a few questionable examples and Randy’s deep dive into cinematic history. While Randy dusts off classic titles that reach way back, Mike leans into the more modern side of matrimony on screen, spotlighting contemporary takes on love and nuptials. Along the way, the two self-proclaimed Cassanovas reveal as much about their own mismatched tastes as they do about the films themselves. Expect plenty of laughs, playful disagreements, and a reminder that these two may not have their own relationship figured out—but at least they can argue about wedding movies for your entertainment.

Contact the Show!On the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, Mike sits down with longtime theatre enthusiast and Classic Cinemas’ own Director of Special Operations, Randy Pollock. Randy takes us back to 1975, when he first experienced Jaws as a 15-year-old employee working at his father’s theatre. From the rush of that opening weekend to the way the film redefined summer blockbusters, Randy reflects on the thrill of seeing audiences jump, scream, and cheer at a movie that changed cinema forever. This episode dives into movie history, family legacy, and why Jaws still has the power to pull us all back into the water (and we cover Randy's missed birthday.)

Contact the Show!This week, Mike sits down with Ed Finch and Alan Wenzel—two retired educators from Stephenson County who’ve devoted every waking hour to their lifelong passion: movies. For nearly 20 years, they’ve hosted beloved film series at Classic Cinemas Lindo Theatre in Freeport, IL, and they’re taking us on a memory lane tour of their favorite highlights. Ever wonder why it’s called the Lindo? Turns out, it’s a mashup of Lincoln and Douglas, paying tribute to the famous debates held right in Freeport!Tune in for stories, laughter, and a celebration of cinema that’s as timeless as the Lindo itself.

Contact the Show!Mike kicks off this week’s show with a spirited look at the brand-new 4K re-release of the Kirsten Dunst cheerleading classic Bring It On — complete with personal stories from his first viewing and a rallying cry for why it still wins over crowds today.From there, he flips into Yes Man with Jim Carrey, then sticks the landing with Magnolia, the third act in his ongoing Paul Thomas Anderson deep dive that will march straight through to the September 26 launch of One Battle After Another.Along the way, Magnolia becomes the pivot point for a surprising leap into last week’s breakout hit Weapons, sparking unexpected genre-spanning connections. True to form, Mike serves up sharp insights, playful tangents, and a few outrageous promises about what happens if Bring It On sells out (consider this your official warning).Stay tuned — the PT Anderson streak is just getting started.

Contact the Show!Mike’s calling it now—Weapons is the ultimate way to send summer out with a bang, and (in his words) the best movie of the year… so far. From the first scene, it had him hooked, blending nail-biting suspense with moments that made him jump (more than he’d like to admit) with performances that left you with plenty to "think about." In this episode, Mike breaks down why this thriller hits so hard, whiy the film making stuck with him long after he left the theatre, and why it’s the perfect pick for your end-of-summer watchlist. Mark your calendars 2;17PM first showtimes, everywhere! (except Paramount*, but at Meadowview)

Contact the Show!This week, Mike breaks down the newly released trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, James Cameron’s long-awaited return to Pandora—debuting in front of Fantastic Four this week at theatres. Then it’s time to crank up the disco and dive deep into Paul Thomas Anderson’s Boogie Nights. As we wait for PTA’s next film, One Battle After Another, Mike revisits the film that made Dirk Diggler a legend—and changed '90s cinema for good. From Pandora to porn stardom, it’s a wild ride.

Contact the Show!With Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another on the horizon, Mike kicks off a weekly retrospective covering each PTA film leading up to its release. First up: Hard Eight—a deep dive into Anderson’s understated debut, the performances that anchor it, and the themes that would define his future work. Plus, a look ahead at Together, the buzzworthy body horror sleeper opening early next week at Classic Cinemas. Tickets for everything right here.

Contact the Show!Inspired by Jimmy Olsen and Lois Lane, Mike grabs the field recorder and hits the hallways of Classic Cinemas’ Home Office!With press-pass energy and a nose for news, he checks in with the corporate team to find out what they’ve been watching at their favorite Classic Cinemas locations —complete with shout-outs to the standout guest service at their favorite Classic Cinemas locations. It’s a fun, fly-on-the-wall look at the moviegoers behind the curtain.And of course, much of this week’s buzz is about the Man of Steel soaring across the big screen. Superman is playing now—and it’s a perfect fit for our XQ/GDX auditoriums (where available). 🦸‍♂️🎥

Contact the Show!Mike and self-proclaimed film buff “Movie” Mark Mazrimus take on the New York Times’ Top 100 Films of All Time—one cinematic battle at a time. Some picks you’ll cheer, others you’ll boo, but either way, you’ll find yourself right in the middle of a knock-down, drag-out debate about what deserves to rise (or fall) on the list.Whether you're a casual moviegoer or a full-on film geek, you're invited to the fight.

Contact the Show!Mike and Jim talk about the 'dinosaur in the auditorium' as Jurassic World: Rebirth stomped into eight of our locations early—thanks to our popular Monday mystery movie series, Classified Cinema. Hear what audiences thought of this early screening of what’s sure to be a summer blockbuster.You’ll also hear real exit poll reactions from moviegoers who got an early look at Jurassic World: Rebirth during our June 23 Classified Cinema debut — spoiler: the dinos weren’t the only ones making noise in the auditorium. Then things take a strange, very domestic turn as Mike and Jim swap stories about their cats’ baffling home habits — including an obsession with licking plastic and a deeply concerning taste for cardboard. It’s dinosaurs, drama, and inexplicable feline behavior... all in one episode.

Contact the Show!In this week’s episode, Mike takes a fun and nostalgic look back at the 1998 cult favorite Blade, ahead of Saturday’s Smash Cut Cinema Series screening. With a blend of humor and reflection, he revisits Wesley Snipes' unforgettable turn as the half-vampire, half-human daywalker that helped redefine superhero films. Plus, he gives a quick preview of today’s new releases: Pixar’s Elio and the long-awaited 28 Years Later — both now playing. It’s a packed episode you won’t want to miss!

Contact the Show!What do a brooding billionaire vigilante and a charming, commitment-phobic romantic lead have in common? More than you’d expect. In this episode, Mike pokes at the surprising parallels between Materialists, a sharp romantic comedy set in the world of NYC’s dating scene, and Batman Begins, the shadowy reboot that gave us a darker Bruce Wayne. From penthouses to personal demons, Mike explores how both stories wrestle with identity, responsibility, and the complicated lives of wealthy urban bachelors. It’s romance meets reckoning—with a cape or without.

Contact the Show!In this episode, Mike revisits Dogma, Kevin Smith’s bold and controversial 1999 religious satire, in honor of its 25th anniversary re-release. He unpacks the film’s mix of irreverent humor and sincere spiritual themes, the cultural firestorm it sparked upon release, and the behind-the-scenes distribution issues that have kept it off streaming platforms to this day. From real-life protests to studio standoffs, Mike offers thoughtful commentary on the film’s legacy — and why Dogma still resonates a quarter-century later, especially for Kevin Smith zealots.

Contact the Show!This week on Magic at the Movies, Mike is joined by Tyler Patterson, CEO of the new Blast Movies app, for a high-octane deep dive into the entire Mission: Impossible franchise. From Ethan Hunt’s most daring stunts to the definitive ranking of every installment, these two self-proclaimed film historians go toe-to-toe in a passionate (and hilarious) debate for M:I supremacy.Tyler also shares the story behind his Blast Movies—how a childhood mason jar of ticket stubs evolved into an innovative new app that helps movie lovers track, review, and rate films based on the experience, not just the story. Think of it as a new way to capture the magic of moviegoing, one screening at a time.Check out the app at blastmovies.net and find Tyler on TikTok at @_ty_patterson_