80s icon Corey Feldman joins The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast to discuss his new film Going Viral (2024), a nostalgic throwback that imagines what social media might have looked like in the 1980s. Hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell sit down with the star of classics like The Goonies and Stand By Me for an engaging conversation about this unique blend of retro aesthetics and modern technology.
Feldman describes Going Viral as a family-friendly adventure that captures the essence of 80s filmmaking while exploring an alternate reality where viral video fame existed alongside Nintendo Game Boys and arcade machines. The film follows a teen’s quest for video stardom that takes a dark turn when a mysterious AI offers fame at a concerning price. With authentic period details like Pac-Man cabinets and Goonies posters decorating the background, the movie creates what Feldman calls a “parallel universe” version of 80s technology.
The conversation takes an introspective turn as Feldman discusses his approach to acting roles throughout his career, explaining how he’s always strived to avoid typecasting by making each character distinct. He also shares candid insights about his journey through Hollywood, including his experiences with low-budget films in the early 90s and his pride in more serious artistic endeavors like The Birthday, which recently received its long-awaited US release.
Key Topics Covered:
- Details about Going Viral and its unique premise combining 80s aesthetics with modern social media concepts
- Feldman’s role as a burnt-out competitive arcade gamer
- The careful attention to period detail in the film’s production design
- Feldman’s thoughts on what makes a good “background movie” for family viewing
- Discussion of Dream a Little Dream as a pivotal film in Feldman’s career
- His experience contributing music to film soundtracks
- Reflections on working with legendary actors like Jason Robards and Harry Dean Stanton
The episode concludes with Feldman recommending Dream a Little Dream as the next film for the podcast to review, praising it as the “quintessential end of the 80s movie” that marked a more mature direction for himself and costar Corey Haim.
Catch Going Viral on Amazon and Apple for a fresh take on 80s nostalgia with a modern twist.
