"JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR" w/ Mike Sacks
Summary
Hosts interview Vanity Fair editor and author Mike Sachs about his novelizations of cult films like *Stinker, Let's Loose* and *Slouchers*. They discuss how 1970s and 90s pop culture shaped their sensibilities, highlighting the enduring impact of Chris Elliott and the film *Jesus Christ Superstar*. The conversation explores niche creative projects, the "garage band" aesthetic of independent audio dramas, and the specific nostalgia of obscure media.
Topics discussed
Intro: Limited edition flexi disk and Patreon perks
Welcome Mike Sachs and shared love of Pair Ubu
Childhood movie trauma: The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T
Stinker Lets Loose and the trucker movie era
Burt Reynolds' cultural impact and limited TV options
Being labeled a 'Gen X' writer and Southern nostalgia
Noir trends, Reservoir Dogs, and alternative snobbery
The grunge explosion and alternative radio politics
Sub Pop's rise, Dischord Records, and DIY ethos
Publishing novelizations and the Vanilla Ice story
David Letterman, scary kids movies, and Cabin Boy
Chris Elliott's career, Mr. Show, and Hollywood struggles
Jesus Christ Superstar: Anti-semitism claims and Judas
The film's hippie aesthetic and visceral realism
Ted Neeley's performance and the album's musicians
Behind the scenes: Filming locations and trivia
Casting choices and the concept of the 'Superstar'
Respecting mainstream art and final thoughts
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