“Children's game phrase that should start the italicized clues … or a hint to eight squares in this puzzle”

Helpful site for a D.I.Y.'er

Thurman of film

Need for a transfer of power?

Make easier to swallow

Basis for a write-off, perhaps

Mann who wrote songs for 1999's "Magnolia"

First name in country

… something big and rocky with a Space Force base in it

"So weird …"