If you grew up in the ’80s, there’s a good chance The Goonies was more than just a movie—it was a rite of passage. Now, four decades later, the adventure is coming back to life, and it’s happening right here in Salt Lake City.
On June 21, 2025, Sean Astin—Mikey himself—is coming to Kingsbury Hall at the University of Utah to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Goonies. This special event includes a screening of the film followed by a live, in-person discussion with Astin, moderated by local actor Andrew Lenz.
Sean Astin has had an impressive career, starring in films like The Lord of the Rings, Rudy, Toy Soldiers, and a personal favorite of mine, Encino Man. But for many of us, he’ll always be Mikey—the brave, asthma-inhaler-wielding leader of the Goonies. I can’t wait for this rare opportunity to hear Sean Astin share behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the film, including secrets about the pirate’s treasure map, the booby traps, and the long-lost pirate ship.
Andrew Lenz, known for his roles in Day of Defense, Singles Ward, and Touched by an Angel, will serve as the host and moderator. Lenz has previously hosted similar events with the cast of The Sandlot and Cary Elwes of The Princess Bride, bringing a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the discussion. It will be a great time!
The Goonies is incredible. It’s a cultural touchstone that has stood the test of time. Released in 1985, the movie follows a group of kids from the “Goon Docks” neighborhood of Astoria, Oregon, as they embark on a quest to find the long-lost treasure of One-Eyed Willy, a legendary 17th-century pirate. Along the way, they encounter a series of booby traps and are pursued by the criminal Fratelli family. The film was directed by Richard Donner, with a screenplay by Chris Columbus and a story by Steven Spielberg. It has since become a cult classic, selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” That movie is very much a part of my childhood and I love that new generations are being introduced to it and audiences can come together to relive it today.
Tickets for the event are available through the Kingsbury Hall Box Office. You can purchase them by calling 801-581-7100 or online. Given the popularity of both the film and Sean Astin, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so don’t wait too long to get yours!
This event is a must-see for fans of The Goonies and anyone who appreciates the magic of ’80s cinema. It’s a unique opportunity to relive a beloved film on the big screen and gain new insights from one of its stars. This anniversary celebration promises to be a memorable experience.
So grab your treasure map, rally your fellow Goonies, and get ready for an adventure—because this is one event you won’t want to miss.
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