Tami Stronach on The NeverEnding Story, Fantasy Movies and ‘Man and Witch’

For many Gen X movie fans, few fantasy films captured the imagination quite like The NeverEnding Story. Released during the golden age of practical-effects fantasy cinema, the movie introduced audiences to Falkor, Atreyu, The Nothing and the unforgettable Childlike Empress played by 10-year-old Tami Stronach. Four decades later, Tami returns to the world of fantasy filmmaking with the new movie Man and Witch: The Dance of a Thousand Steps, and this week she joins the Stuck in the ’80s Podcast to discuss both projects and the enduring magic of fantasy movies from the 1980s.

During the interview, Tami reflects on her experience starring in The NeverEnding Story and what it was like becoming part of one of the most beloved cult fantasy movies of the decade. She discusses working on the film as a child actor, the emotional connection fans still have to the movie and the surprising way the film’s themes of imagination, courage and hope continue to resonate with audiences today.

The conversation also explores Tami’s new project, Man and Witch: The Dance of a Thousand Steps, a fantasy-comedy adventure inspired by the practical-effects storytelling and whimsical spirit of classic 1980s fantasy films. Steve and Brad talk with Tami about why fantasy movies from the VHS era still hold such a special place in Gen X culture and how modern audiences continue rediscovering the charm of handmade creatures, practical sets and imaginative storytelling.

Along the way, the gang revisits the larger fantasy boom of the 1980s — a time when films like Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal and Willow created entire worlds long before CGI dominated Hollywood. If you love fantasy movies, ’80s nostalgia, cult films, practical effects and revisiting the movies that shaped childhood imagination, this episode belongs in your playlist.

Man and Witch: The Dance of a Thousand Steps will be showing nationwide through Fathom Events on July 28 and 30.

The Stuck in the ’80s Podcast has spent nearly 20 years celebrating the music, movies, television and pop culture of the greatest decade ever. Support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive livestream hangouts, behind-the-scenes content and merch for longtime listeners.

And don’t forget: Spearsy and Brad will once again be part of The 80s Cruise, the ultimate floating celebration of ’80s music and nostalgia. Use promo code STUCK when booking your cabin to receive up to $250 in onboard cabin credit while sailing with fellow Gen X fans and enjoying performances and appearances from many of the decade’s biggest artists. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.