Sidekicks (1992) - Drive-In Double Feature Episode 445

Nathan and Ryan roundhouse-kick their way into Sidekicks (1992), the wish-fulfillment martial arts fantasy that turned every bullied kid’s daydream into a movie. Starring Jonathan Brandis as a lonely teen whose imagination places him alongside the unbeatable Chuck Norris, the film blends coming-of-age drama with kid-friendly karate action. The hosts talk about the movie’s earnest tone, early-’90s vibes, and how it plays like a feature-length version of childhood power fantasies—complete with mullets, bullies, and tournament glory. Is it cheesy? Absolutely. Is it also weirdly heartfelt? Also yes.