COMING SOON

Finding Nemo (2003)

Wed, 26 Jun 2024

Our final episode of Season 6 is a practically perfect in every way screenplay! Topics include: protagonists and deuteragonists, why this Mahnishtahnah is necessary, and a pitch from Larry that makes Andie cry!

The Rocketeer (1991)

Wed, 19 Jun 2024

Larry and Andie are mixed on this comic book adaptation. Topics include a tonally different mahnishtahnah, what we need from a superhero movie, and Larry's comparison of this movie to Aladdin.

DuckTales The Movie (1990)

Wed, 12 Jun 2024

Andie and Larry offer a lot of fixes to this TV-spinoff film. Topics include protagonist and inciting incident troubles, the need to re-introduce audiences to characters, and parallels to Aladdin.

Haunted Mansion (2003)

Wed, 29 May 2024

Of course...you can always choose...OUR WAY! Larry and Andie unravel this spooky sleeper. Topics include a functional Mahnishtahnah, MORE CONFLICT, and Andie's billion dollar idea.

Brother Bear (2003)

Wed, 22 May 2024

Andie and Larry manage their emotions to handle this spiritual Disney experience. Topics include a hard to find inciting incident, a discussion about different protagonists, and general cosmological questions.

Bonus Episode: Goof Troop- Forever Goof (1992)

Fri, 17 May 2024

Listener Beware: Larry has the darkest possible take on Goof Troop, and really goes through some things. Is this show actually a psychological horror series, as he claims?

Bonus Episode- Darkwing Duck: Darkly Dawns the Duck (1991)

Wed, 08 May 2024

In this bonus episode, Larry tackles the two-part launch of Darkwing Duck. Let's get analytical!

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Wed, 01 May 2024

Andie and Larry are pretty whelmed by this 1999 teen rom com by Touchstone. Topics include: the dual plot, some cringey moments by modern sensibilities, and a scene that makes Larry cry!

The Lion King 1 1/2 (2004)

Thu, 25 Apr 2024

Hakuna Matata! Larry and Andie take on this surreal "behind the scenequel" to The Lion King. Highlights include parallels to A Bug's Life, Timon as a father, and the inspiration for this piece.

The Happiest Millionaire (1968)

Wed, 17 Apr 2024

What's wrong with that? Andie and Larry do their best with this musical followup to Mary Poppins. Topics include John and Bert, television structure, and how these Sherman Brothers songs mirror Walt Disney's personal philosophy.

James and the Giant Peach (1996)

Wed, 10 Apr 2024

Larry and Andie take on this Roald Dahl adaptation. Topics include the classic Disney storybook opening, the dangers of too many characters, and why this movie gets unnecessarily boring.

Adventures In Babysitting (1987) with Elana Gartner

Wed, 03 Apr 2024

Playwright Elana Gartner joins Andie and Larry to analyze this Gen X teen comedy. Topics include an interesting mahnishtahnah, how Chris should save the day in the climax, and the best game time with Larry ever!

The Country Bears (2002) with Richard Propes

Wed, 27 Mar 2024

The Independent Critic Richard Propes joins the Once Upon A Disney tour to talk strengths and weaknesses of this film. Highlights include tone, protagonist problems, and answering the question 'Is This A Musical?'

Bonus Episode - Talespin: Plunder and Lightning (1990)

Wed, 20 Mar 2024

Larry takes a look at the four part "Plunder and Lightning" tv movie that launched the Talespin series. Is it a rant or a rave? How did the writers adapt the Jungle Book characters for an adventure serial? Why were some characters left out? How should the series have ended?

Cool Runnings (1993)

Wed, 13 Mar 2024

Andie and Larry hit the run with this early 90s surprise hit. Topics include protagonist problems in the sports genre, a misleading Mahnishtahnah, and an unexpected ending.

Recess: School's Out (2001) with Bryn Tanner

Wed, 06 Mar 2024

Playwright and artist Bryn Tanner joins Andie and Larry for this underrated Disney capstone series film. Topics include structure, an engaging soundtrack, and what an antagonist needs to do.

Labyrinth (1986) with Brett Niethamer

Wed, 28 Feb 2024

The Holy Goof's Brett Niethamer joins the duo to navigate this Labyrinth - and Larry is squarely in his Henson element. Topics in this special extended episode include surrealism, dream logic, and nonsense realms.

National Treasure (2004)

Wed, 21 Feb 2024

Join Andie and Larry as they find the gems in this high stakes family friendly caper. Topics include what makes for a good heist movie and the case for Dr. Chase as a protagonist.

Phantom of the Megaplex (2000) with John Maclay

Wed, 14 Feb 2024

Goosebumps: The Musical's John Maclay joins Larry and Andie to talk about this made for TV phantom movie. Topics include: plot twists, introducing characters too late, and the need for story logic.

The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again (1979)

Wed, 07 Feb 2024

Andie and Larry find themselves baffled by the choices made in this sequel - or is it a sequel? Topics include: making your comedy characters protagonists and avoiding unfunny tropes.

Piglet's Big Movie (2003)

Wed, 31 Jan 2024

Andie and Larry return to the Hundred Acre Wood for an unconventional structure, some protagonist problems, and more of the villain who is Owl - but they really wanted more Piglet.

102 Dalmatians (2000)

Wed, 24 Jan 2024

Our 102nd episode deserves equally as many puppies! For this sequel, Andie and Larry tackle some major issues with theme, story purpose, and protagonists - and offer up some fixes!

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

Wed, 17 Jan 2024

Yo, ho, yo, ho, it's time for season 6 where Larry and Andie tackle this supernatural swashbuckler. Topics include protagonists, antagonists, and who should command the climax and falling action.

Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers (2004)

Wed, 01 Nov 2023

Our 100th episode! Larry and Andie unpack this direct to DVD Disney feature - and one of the few starring Mickey Mouse and friends. Topics include dramatic irony, foiling, and letters from our listeners - you're why we do what we do!

Mark Twain and Me (1991) with Gabriel Diani

Wed, 25 Oct 2023

Gabriel Diani (Mark Twain Today) joins Andie and Larry to unpack this Disney Channel original movie. Topics include the importance of conflict and knowing where to start and stop your movie.

Air Bud (1997)

Wed, 18 Oct 2023

WOOF! Andie and Larry engage this family favorite, noting a lot of great canine acting. Topics include nontraditional structure, the logic police, and why Andie never watches trailers.

Pocahontas II (1998)

Wed, 11 Oct 2023

Larry and Andie get a little silly discussing a rare direct-to-video Disney sequel they contend is better than the original. Topics include a better protagonist, a stronger antagonist, and a Pocahontas dating game.

Bonus Episode- Super DuckTales (1989)

Wed, 04 Oct 2023

Diving back into some DuckTales episodes like a billionaire into his money bin, Larry takes a looks at Super DuckTales, the five part story that introduces Gizmo Duck into the Duckverse

The Sign Of Zorro (1958) with Mike Staub and Jordan Hue

Wed, 27 Sep 2023

The BatmanTASticast's Mike Staub and Jordan Hue join Larry and Andie to discuss this 1960 feature. Topics include a Batman-Zorro comparison and Larry's new game Best Villain.

Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken (1991)

Wed, 20 Sep 2023

Larry and Andie saddle up for this Disney girl and her horse feature. Topics include didactic opening scenes and the importance of conflict with your characters.

Bonus Episode- Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears: King Igthorn (1990)

Wed, 13 Sep 2023

Larry has completed the entire Gummi Bears series, and he has some thoughts! What can be learned from the lightly serialized nature of the Gummi Bears cartoon, and how do you wrap up five years of a children's television series?

Honey, I Blew Up The Kid (1992) with Ashley Cook

Wed, 06 Sep 2023

Screenwriter Ashley Cook joins Larry and Andie to dig deep into the second installment of the Honey, I Shrunk franchise. Topics include escalating the inciting incident and how a child actor might limit storytelling possibilities.

Oliver & Company (1988) with Gabriel Jason Dean and Jessie Dean

Wed, 30 Aug 2023

Playwrights Gabriel Jason Dean and Jessie Dean join Larry and Andie to discuss Disney's adaptation of the Dickens classic. Topics include the need for a singular protagonist and reductionistic pitfalls in adaptation.

The Rookie (2002)

Wed, 23 Aug 2023

Batter up! Larry and Andie analyze this Texas baseball classic. Topics include a late inciting incident, too much dramatic irony, and a pitch certain to be a hit!

Ruby Bridges (1998)

Wed, 16 Aug 2023

Andie and Larry explore this Wonderful World of Disney TV film. Topics include handling an adaptation, the danger of redundancy, and the need for a strong climax.

Darby O'Gill and the Little People (1959)

Wed, 09 Aug 2023

What's the craic? It's this episode! Andie and Larry enjoy a wee bit of fun while engaging with this amazing cinematic spectacle. Topics include clever dialogue, the use of subtext, and the joys of consent in romantic scenes.

Candleshoe (1977) with Andrea Nasfell

Wed, 02 Aug 2023

Screenwriter Andrea Nasfell joins Andie and Larry for such topics as character development without the use of dialogue and the power of an ambiguous ending.

The Rescuers Down Under (1990)

Wed, 26 Jul 2023

In a rare turn of events, Larry and Andie both struggle with a film they really wanted to like. Topics include a too long mahnishtahnah and the need for Medusa.

The Dark Crystal (1982) with Brett Niethamer

Wed, 19 Jul 2023

The Holy Goof's Brett Niethamer join Andie and Larry to unpack this Jim Henson masterpiece. Topics include character work, plotting concerns, and how indifference might be the worst evil.

Smart House (1999)

Wed, 12 Jul 2023

Andie and Larry dig into the Disney Channel's answer to the ABC Afterschool Special. Highlights from this made for TV movie include character work and the theme of embracing love after loss.

Return To Never Land (2002)

Wed, 05 Jul 2023

Second star to the right! Larry and Andie return to the Peter Pan franchise to discuss plot questions and why Wendy should have been able to go back to Never Land.

Apple Dumpling Gang (1976)

Wed, 28 Jun 2023

Andie and Larry dive into Disney's wildly successful 1970's western for children. Topics include the protagonist's relationship with the villain and a problematic mahnishtahnah.

Tarzan (1999) with Gina Marie Dropp

Wed, 21 Jun 2023

Playwright Gina Marie Dropp comes on board to discuss the last film in the Disney Renaissance. Topics include a lengthy exposition, an extended climax, and great character work.

The Princess Diaries (2001)

Wed, 14 Jun 2023

Larry and Andie offer strong rewrite suggestions for this Disney live-action movie. Highlights include: a better mahnishtahnah, a discussion about the Dove Foundation and G rated fare, and The Glad Game!

Mulan (1998)

Wed, 07 Jun 2023

Andie and Larry kick off Season 5 with this legendary Disney Princess. Topics include false tension, potential solutions for protagonist problems, and Larry's new game First Or False.

Lilo and Stitch (2002)

Wed, 15 Mar 2023

In this last episode of Season 4, Larry and Andie enjoy this heartwarming sci-fi story of found family and redemptive love. Topics include three inciting incidents, a romantic comedy structure, and why Jumba's role as antagonist gets skewed.

Old Yeller (1957)

Wed, 08 Mar 2023

Get your tissues! Andie and Larry unpack this 'Boy and His Dog' genre classic. Highlights include character work, the theme of becoming a man, and Larry choosing a Disney dog for a pet.

Pocahontas (1995)

Wed, 01 Mar 2023

In this episode, Andie and Larry dig into one of Disney's more controversial offerings. Topics include a faulty prologue, a weak protagonist, and Romeo and Juliet as a structural model for a First Nation story.

Davy Crockett and the River Pirates (1956)

Wed, 22 Feb 2023

Larry and Andie go back for another round of '50s Crockett Craze! Highlights include reasons for a puzzling Mahnishtahnah and the problem with a stoic protagonist in a morality play.

Remember The Titans (2000)

Wed, 15 Feb 2023

Our first sports movie! Larry and Andie do a post mortem on this classic football film. Highlights include atypical structure, how narration creates aesthetic distance, and a Disney fantasy football game.

101 Dalmatians (1996) with Noelle Nori

Wed, 08 Feb 2023

Guest star Noelle Nori joins Andie and Larry to discuss the differences between the original animated version and the live action remake - plus The Dating Game starring Cruella de Vil!!

Zenon: The Zequel (2001)

Wed, 01 Feb 2023

Zoom, zoom, zoom! For some reason, fans keep asking for more Zenon. Because they care, Andie and Larry deliver by laughing at a total lack of story logic. PLEASE, FANS - NO MORE!!!

Treasure Planet (2002)

Wed, 25 Jan 2023

Larry and Andie take on this VERY underrated Disney gem with a discussion of evolving character wants, a craft lesson on montage writing, and a very refreshing female captain.

Tuck Everlasting (2002)

Wed, 18 Jan 2023

It's a split decision! Larry pans and Andie enjoys this understated supernatural romance. Topics include aging up the protagonist, the use of narration, and the theme of immortality.

Newsies (1992)

Wed, 11 Jan 2023

Happy New Year! In our first episode of 2023, Andie and Larry tackle Newsies (1992). Topics include balancing music and dance with historical events and how to balance a script when two characters sharing the protagonist role.

The Santa Clause (1994)

Wed, 28 Dec 2022

Happy Holidays...we hope we don't spoil them for you! Larry and Andie lament what happens when a film has no real dramatic question, no real arc for the protagonist, and no real foiling.

Pollyanna (1960)

Wed, 21 Dec 2022

We're ever so glad you joined us! Larry and Andie head to Harrington to analyze a new sheriff in town and notice dozens of themes emerging in this iconic Disney live action.

Flight Of The Navigator (1986)

Wed, 14 Dec 2022

COMPLIANCE! Andie and Larry explore this underrated 80s cult classic with an eye to tonal shifts and how the dramatic question needs to be answered in the film's climax.

A Bug's Life (1998)

Wed, 07 Dec 2022

Andie and Larry dive into Ant Island for a look at Pixar's answer to Toy Story. Topics include a scrapped Mahnishtahnah, the need for characters to have arcs, and the storytelling problem of multiple themes.

Bonus Episode: Chip N' Dale's Rescue Rangers: Rescue Rangers To The Rescue (1989)

Fri, 02 Dec 2022

In this bonus episode, Larry takes a not particularly nostalgic look at the Chip N' Dale's Rescue Ranger series and discusses how your characters need to be right for the story you're trying to tell.

Geppetto (2000)

Wed, 23 Nov 2022

Larry and Andie dive into to this made for TV musical with a discussion of character motives, strong structure, and Larry's concept of superfoiling.

The Aristocats (1970)

Wed, 16 Nov 2022

Sacre bleu! Larry and Andie dissect this animated Disney feature with an eye toward missed opportunities, an underuse of characters, and plot and protagonist problems.

The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)

Wed, 09 Nov 2022

Wocka wocka!! Another Muppet movie - so you know Larry is fired up! Join Andie and Larry as they explore Muppet character development and laud the genius of Frank Oz's direction.

The Lion King 2 (1998)

Wed, 02 Nov 2022

Hakuna Mata-two? Join Larry and Andie as they analyze the 1998 sequel to the 1994 hit The Lion King. Topics include showing vs. telling and why giving the protagonist the satisfaction of triumph in the climax is always the way to go.

Hocus Pocus (1993)

Wed, 26 Oct 2022

Happy Halloween! Larry and Andie tackle this cult classic. The duo discuss the dangers of a long windup in exposition, the importance of character choice, and the need to stick to your rules in your screenplay.

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Thu, 20 Oct 2022

Season 4 kicks off with the piece de resistance from the 1990s Disney Renaissance, Beauty and the Beast. In this episode, Andie and Larry tackle protagonist problems, foiling, and recent film criticism on Stockholm Syndrome.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) with Taj Whitesell

Wed, 14 Sep 2022

For this season finale, Larry and Andie are joined by artist Taj Whitesell to unpack the hit launching the Disney renaissance. Highlights include many craft takeaways and Larry's working theory of Who REALLY Framed Roger Rabbit?

Hercules (1997)

Wed, 07 Sep 2022

Andie and Larry tackle this Disney retelling of the epic Greek myth. Topics include the need for a protagonist with selfless goals and why too much exposition can lose your viewers.

Bonus Episode- Ducktales: Time is Money (1988)

Wed, 31 Aug 2022

In this episode, Larry talks about the five part Ducktales "movie" Time is Money, which introduces the character of Bubba Duck to the cast.

Herbie Rides Again (1974)

Wed, 24 Aug 2022

Vrrrrrooooom! Disney Villain Alonzo Hawk joins the Herbie world, and Andie and Larry are here for it! Topics include using a false climax, the lack of a showdown, and choosing to start a film with your antagonist.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) with Bryn Tanner

Thu, 18 Aug 2022

Playwright Bryn Tanner joins Larry and Andie in unpacking this adaptation of Victor Hugo's foundational French novel. Topics include the dangers of explicit exposition, protagonist problems, and adult themes in a movie for families.

The Great Mouse Detective (1986)

Wed, 10 Aug 2022

Join Larry and Andie as they crack the case of this movie, including discussions of foiling, the use of time in a screenplay, and how this movie starts perfectly.

TRON (1982) with Brett Niethamer

Wed, 03 Aug 2022

The Holy Goof's Brett Niethamer combines forces with Larry and Andie to discuss the first computer animated Disney classic. Topics include protagonist problems, the need for a character to address flaws, and overkill on worldbuilding.

Robin Hood (1973)

Wed, 27 Jul 2022

Oo-De-Lolly! Larry and Andie discuss the first Disney animated feature without Walt, including the dangers of crafting a narrative feature with one eye to television.

Treasure Island (1950)

Wed, 20 Jul 2022

Arrrr, Matey! Andie and Larry unpack this treasure of a film, offering a lot of historical content, a thematic breakdown, and a discussion on film adaptation and why some parts of a novel do not make the cut.

Toy Story 2 (1999)

Wed, 13 Jul 2022

There's a snake in my boot! Larry and Andie rave over this near perfect sequel, picking up where Toy Story left off. Topics include a dual inciting incident, themes, and how Pixar solves the Buzz Lightyear problem.

Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)

Thu, 30 Jun 2022

Larry and Andie tackle the first Disney movie musical completed without Walt. Topics include the Fetch Quest trope, how best to marry plot and music, and the problems with a heavy edit.

Bonus Episode- Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears: A New Beginning (1985)

Wed, 22 Jun 2022

In this bonus episode, Larry discusses the pilot of Disney's Adventures of the Gummi Bears (1985.) He posits that this series is an important pivot point, drawing from past successes in Disney animation but also laying the groundwork for Disney stories for years to come.

The Great Muppet Caper (1981)

Wed, 15 Jun 2022

Join Andie and Larry for this followup to The Muppet Movie. Topics include love triangles, how cameo appearances need to drive the story, and how one of us feels Fozzie is grossly underutilized.

Pete's Dragon (1977) - Recorded LIVE at Spalding University

Wed, 08 Jun 2022

This BONUS episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the Naslund-Mann School of Writing at Spalding University. Topics include the Mahnishtahnah, trouble with the inciting incident, and the vaudevillian nature of this movie musical.

Honey, I Shrunk The Kids (1989)

Wed, 01 Jun 2022

Andie and Larry shrink down the elements of this late 80's classic. Topics include showing over telling, the primary importance of theme, and wondering who in the backyard is the real protagonist!

The Tigger Movie (2000)

Wed, 25 May 2022

Larry and Andie "bounce" through this theatrical reboot of the Winnie The Pooh franchise. Topics include character continuity in a franchise, thematic challenges, how songs need pathos, and how to write a character experiencing a dark night of the soul.

Swiss Family Robinson (1960) with Andrea Nasfell

Wed, 18 May 2022

Team Fritz or Team Ernst? Screenwriter Andrea Nasfell joins Andie and Larry for a discussion of this classic family film. Topics include the inciting incident, character arcs, and the structure of the film influenced by television.

Monsters, Inc. (2001)

Wed, 11 May 2022

Join Andie and Larry to discuss foiling, character relationships, and worldbuilding using this fast-paced Pixar classic.

The Shaggy Dog (1959)

Wed, 04 May 2022

Larry and Andie discuss Disney's first live action comedy and the dangers of editing a TV show into a feature - namely setups never paid off.

The Black Cauldron (1985)

Wed, 27 Apr 2022

Join Andie and Larry for a discussion of this Disney miss - a movie which favors plot and location over character and theme - and what's up with no music?

The Absent-Minded Professor (1961) with Tom Provost

Wed, 20 Apr 2022

Join Andie, Larry, and Director Tom Provost for this look at the 1961 live-action classic. Topics include dramatic questions, a recipe for Flubber, and why Mrs. Chatsworth is the true villain of the picture.

The Little Mermaid (1989)

Wed, 13 Apr 2022

Kicking off Season 3 with the film credited with ushering in the Disney Renaissance of the 1990s! We discuss the importance of the 'mahnishtahnah,' characterization, and why the movie would end differently today.

The Lion King (1994)

Wed, 02 Mar 2022

In this last episode of Season 2, Larry and Andie tackle this truly perfect film. The prologue's exceptional use of exposition for worldbuilding and relationships, music, and complex characterizations driving plot - The Lion King has it all!

Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century (1999)

Wed, 23 Feb 2022

Larry and Andie heroically tackle this futuristic Disney Channel Original Movie. While it's not their favorite, the duo discuss flaws in the script and ways to improve the film.

The Love Bug (1969)

Thu, 17 Feb 2022

VRRROOOM! Andie and Larry explore the highest grossing movie of 1969 starring a little VW bug named Herbie. Explorations include obstacles and complications, strong characterization, and what makes an antagonist a true villain.

Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Wed, 09 Feb 2022

Larry and Andie dig into this 1955 classic, asking lots of hard questions: how should a protagonist function, where should this film start, and why isn't Lady the hero of her own movie?

Bonus Episode- Fluppy Dogs (1986)

Wed, 02 Feb 2022

In this bonus episode, Larry takes a look at the Fluppy Dogs, a one hour Disney special that aired in 1986, never to be seen again. Larry summarizes the special, then focuses on how one goes about building a pitch for intellectual property in need of a reboot.

The Black Hole (1979) with Denis Hennelly

Wed, 26 Jan 2022

Director Denis Hennelly comes on board with Andie and Larry to analyze this 1979 Disney venture into space. Topics include Chekhov's Gun, 70s storytelling, and storytelling parallels with 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea.

The Rescuers (1977) with Storme Wood

Wed, 19 Jan 2022

Director Storme Wood joins Andie and Larry for a lively discussion analyzing 1977's The Rescuers. Subjects covered include dramatic questions, inciting incidents, and where the story really should start!

The Muppet Movie (1979)

Wed, 12 Jan 2022

Larry and Andie talk The Muppets in their first full-length feature film. Two Mahnishtahnahs, three climaxes, and an explanation of multiple meta-references? Why, it's almost as if the Muppets wrote their own screenplay!

Dumbo (1941)

Wed, 05 Jan 2022

Join Larry and Andie for a conversation about Dumbo, the little movie that could. We compare Timothy Mouse to Jiminy Cricket, talk about the use of music, and discuss how empathy is built for a silent protagonist.

Davy Crockett: King of the Wild Frontier (1955)

Thu, 30 Dec 2021

Andie and Larry discuss Disney's first all-American film, spliced together from three episodes of the Disneyland television series. Special emphasis in this podcast given to historical consideration in storytelling.

Mickey's Christmas Carol (1983) with Kiki Petrosino

Wed, 22 Dec 2021

Poet Kiki Petrosino joins Andie and Larry for a look at Disney's take on the Dickensian classic, A Christmas Carol. Topics include casting choices, notes on screen adaptation following source material, and some wacky trivia in Game Time With Larry!

Aladdin 2: The Return of Jafar (1994) with Nivi Engineer

Wed, 15 Dec 2021

Larry and Andie tackle Aladdin 2: The Return of Jafar with the help of Nivi Engineer, discussing the shortcomings of a sequel film designed as the pilot for an animated series and the importance of consistency between films in a franchise.