This week, Jason and Dee dive handlebars-first into two of the quirkiest cult comedies of the 1980s: Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure (1985) and UHF (1989)! In Part 1 of this two-part showdown, the guys explore the wild and wonderful origins behind both films.

Join them as they trace Paul Reubens' journey from the improv stages of the Groundlings to the creation of his iconic alter ego, Pee-Wee Herman, and how a stage act morphed into a beloved Saturday morning show—and ultimately a big-screen debut.

They’ll also rewind to the rise of Weird Al Yankovic, unpacking how his music and parody fame led to a shot at movie stardom with UHF.

Plus, Jason and Dee break down the unforgettable cast of Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, and the legendary creative collaboration between Reubens, Tim Burton, and Danny Elfman that brought Pee-Wee's surreal world to life.

Grab your bowtie and your secret word of the day—this episode is too weird to miss!

This week, Jason and Dee crank up the volume and take you back to 1984 as they dive deep into Survivor’s multi-platinum classic “Vital Signs.” Track by track, they uncover the stories behind the songs, the lineup changes, and the simmering drama that shaped one of the 80s’ most iconic bands. Along the way, they chart the band’s pop-culture footprint — from heart-pounding training montages in Rocky III and Rocky IV to unforgettable anthems in The Karate Kid.

But it’s not just nostalgia. Jason and Dee debate the album’s lasting influence, the genius behind its production, and ultimately square off with a question every 80s music fan has asked: which album truly defines the era — Survivor’s “Vital Signs” or Chicago’s “17”? Strap in for stories, trivia, and more than a few surprises in this high-energy trip through one of the decade’s defining records.

🎙️ On this episode of the Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast, Jason and Dee are going track by track through one of the biggest albums of the 1980s—Chicago 17. From unforgettable hits like Hard Habit to Break and You’re the Inspiration to the deep cuts that defined the era, the guys take a deep dive into the music, the making, and the magic of this iconic record.

Along the way, they explore the evolution of Chicago, the massive influence of producer David Foster, and the behind-the-scenes drama that shaped the band’s future. What made this album their best-selling record of all time? And how did it all lead to the shocking departure of frontman Peter Cetera?

Tune in for stories, trivia, and the ultimate breakdown of the album that put Chicago back on top in 1984.