“Well, I’d hoped that hospital had some sexy nurses or something, but … they were all gross men. Total sausage fest. It was suffocating.” Wait. He suffocated on sausage? Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they take a trip to unknown lands and their second anime, and wind up in Wicked City (1987).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 230 – Wicked City (1987)
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While protecting a signatory to a peace treaty between their peoples, a male human and a female demon discover that their mutual attraction may be the key to unifying their worlds.
And now for something completely different. Who’s up for some classic dark fantasy action horror anime? Shall we travel along with the Grue-Crew to Wicked City (1987)? The film is based on the first novel of Hideyuki Kikuchi’s “Wicked City” series titled Wicked City: Black Guard (1985). It is also the solo directorial debut of Yoshiaki Kawajiri who is also responsible for Demon City Shinjuku (1988), Ninja Scroll (1993), and Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust (2000) among others. Wicked City has it all: supernatural demons, secret agents, tentacled monsters, and . . . well, you’ll figure it out. And then check out what the Decades of Horror 1980s Grue-Crew think of this out-there anime. Enjoy!
At the time of this writing, Wicked City is available to stream from Tubi, Pluto TV, HiDive, and Retrocrush. The film is also available as a Blu-ray disc from Discotek Media.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be Frankenstein Island (1981). Yes. She went there, and soon, the rest of the Grue Crew will be going there as well, for better or for worse.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the Gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the Gruesome Magazine website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Are you kidding? Your guy’s got a camera. Mine’s got a flamethrower.” A flamethrower’s good. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they hit the radioactive underground in C.H.U.D. (1987). Be sure to bring your flamethrower!
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 229 – C.H.U.D. (1987)
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A bizarre series of sudden disappearances on the streets of New York City seems to point toward something unsavory living in the sewers.
Cannibalistic humanoid underground dwellers. Or in Spain, Caníbales Humanoides Ululantes Demoníacos. Either way, it’s C.H.U.D., some serious campy 80s gold! The Grue-Crew revisits this fun monster movie from 1984 for this episode of Decades of Horror 1980s. John Heard, Daniel Stern, and Christopher Curry lead the cast in Douglas Cheek’s feature film debut. But the movie is about the creatures and maybe a small cameo from John Goodman… kidding. Check out what the Grue-Crew thinks of this sci-fi/horror classic.
At the time of this writing, C.H.U.D. is available to stream from these free-with-ads sites: Roku, Tubi, PlutoTV, Hoopla, Plex; and from these subscription sites: Amazon Prime, Arrow; and of course, there are PPV options. The film is also available as a Blu-ray disc from Arrow Video.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be Wicked City (1987). Why does Bill keep warning the 80s Grue-Crew about the content of this film? Hmmm . . .
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“You cut-a the hair; you lose-a the strength.” The story of Samson and Delilah this ain’t! Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they teach Jeff who John Mikl Thor is with Zombie Nightmare (1987).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 228 – Zombie Nightmare (1987)
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A mother resorts to voodoo to get back at those who killed her son.
The exploration of horror films from the 1980s continues with the Canadian feature Zombie Nightmare from director Jack Bravman. The cast includes Tia Carrere, Jon Miki Thor, and Shawn Levy. Oh, yeah, and Adam West!!! Holy Day Player, Batman! In this film, the zombie is resurrected by a voodoo priestess. Do we need more voodoo zombies in our horror movies? Maybe, just maybe. These particular voodoo zombies? The jury is still out. You know you want to know what the Grue-Crew thinks. Oh, yeah… that you do!
At the time of this writing, Zombie Nightmare is available to stream on the Classic Horror Movie Channel, Tubi, Night Flight (subs), Arrow (subs), and several PPV options. The film is also available as a Blu-ray disc from Code Red.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Jeff, will be C.H.U.D. (1984). It’s sort of a PG version of Humanoids of the Deep, right? Maybe, kind of?
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“That’s right, Alva. It’s a horrible, horrible job; sifting through old contract after old contract. I couldn’t think of a more horrible job if I wanted to. And you have to do it! You have to or I’ll fire you. You understand? Do you? Good.” Run, Alva! Run now! Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out Nicolas Cage at his Cage-iest in Vampire’s Kiss (1988).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 227 – Vampire’s Kiss (1988)
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After an encounter with a neck-biter, a publishing executive thinks that he’s turning into a vampire.
Witness Nicolas Cage go full-batty with Vampire’s Kiss (1988), a full 35 years before tackling the role of Count Dracula in Renfield (2023). And don’t forget supporting roles from Jennifer Beals, Maria Conchita Alonso, and Elizabeth Ashley. The film was a critical and commercial flop when it first arrived in theaters but found a cult following after landing on home video in 1990. Now it’s time for the Grue-Crew – and you, as well – to determine if the film holds its entertainment value in the 21st century. Sit back and enjoy some cockroach snacks and prepare to scream, “I’m a vampire!”
At the time of this writing, Vampire’s Kiss is available to stream from Kanopy, Tubi, Redbox, and PlutoTV. It is also available as a Blu-ray disc from MVD Rewind Collection.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, will be Zombie Nightmare (1987). Wait! What?
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Never stray from the path, never eat a windfall apple, and never trust a man whose eyebrows meet.” “Good advice,” he said after first checking in the mirror. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out maybe a more accurate telling of “Little Red Riding Hood” than you’re used to in The Company of Wolves (1984), as envisioned in three stories from The Bloody Chamber, a short story collection by Angela Carter.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 226 – The Company of Wolves (1984)
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A teenage girl in a country manor falls asleep while reading a magazine, and has a disturbing dream involving wolves prowling the woods below her bedroom window.
The Company of Wolves is directed by Neil Jordan (The Crying Game, Interview with a Vampire) and stars Angela Lansbury, David Warner, Micha Bergese, and Sarah Patterson in her film debut. The tales woven into Jordan’s second feature film are primarily based on three werewolf stories (“The Company of Wolves,” “Wolf-Alice,” and “The Werewolf”) in Angela Carter’s short story collection The Bloody Chamber (1979).
An entirely different kind of werewolf movie, The Company of Wolves (1984) is definitely one you should consider for your must-watch list. Join the Grue-Crew as they revisit this wicked twist on fairy tales featuring Granny and Rosaleen – familiar, yet creatively original.
At the time of this writing, The Company of Wolves is available to stream from Peacock, Tubi, and Kanopy, among others. It is also available as a 4K UHD Collector’s Edition from Shout! Factory.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be Vampire’s Kiss (1988). Is everyone ready for some Nicolas Cage energy?
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“That house is not fit to live in. No one’s been able to live in it. It doesn’t want people.” That sounds like a challenge. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss The Changeling (1980), the ghost story held in high regard by no less than Martin Scorsese (who named it one of the scariest movies of all time) and Guillermo del Toro.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 225 – The Changeling (1980)
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After the death of his wife and daughter in a car crash, a music professor staying at a long-vacant Seattle mansion is dragged into a decades-old mystery by an inexplicable presence in the mansion’s attic.
The Grue-Crew settle in to tackle a slick, confident – and criminally overlooked – haunted house feature from 1980, The Changeling. The film earns its respect as a classic film and its place as a cult favorite capturing the very first Genie Award for Best Canadian Film from the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television. The film’s stars, George C. Scott and Trish Van Devere claim Best Foreign Actor and Best Foreign Actress respectively as The Changeling sweeps five additional awards during the inaugural presentation. Yet, many are unaware of the film and its influence on horror movies and Canadian film. In this episode, the Grue-Crew share their opinions and appreciation for Peter Medak’s best work.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be The Company of Wolves (1984), directed by Neil Jordan and starring Sarah Patterson, Angela Lansbury, and David Warner.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Welcome to prime time, bitch!” Not words I’d use in front of my mother, but they are iconic just the same. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr, along with guest host Ralph Miller – as they enter another Wes Craven nightmare, A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987). Expect a lot of FX talk with Ralph in the house!
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 224 – A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987)
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A psychiatrist familiar with knife-wielding dream demon Freddy Krueger helps teens at a mental hospital battle the killer who is invading their dreams.
[NOTE: Effects crew credits are listed as they appear in the film credits.]
Guest host Ralph Miller III, who worked behind the scenes on Dream Warriors provides insights and many effects development photos that are shown in the YouTube version of the podcast. Post-recording, the crew wants to clarify that Kevin Yagher was responsible for the Freddy Snake, and Mark Shostrom was in charge of the Penelope Sudrow dummy that smashes into the Freddyvision TV.
With the success of A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987), following the critical failure of A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge (1985), New line Cinema firmly cemented Freddy Krueger and A Nightmare on Elm Street as one of the most iconic horror franchises of its time. Not only does Dream Warriors feature Robert Englund continuing to breathe both humor and fear into Freddy Krueger but also the return of both Heather Langenkamp and John Saxon from the original. The film also features Craig Wasson (Ghost Story) as the male lead and early film roles for Patricia Arquette and Larry Fishburne. Frank Darabont (The Mist) and Bruce Wagner join Wes Craven on scripting chores and Chuck Russell (The Blob, The Mask) directs while Angelo Badalamenti (Twin Peaks, Blue Velvet) provides the score – a winning combination of talent. Surely a Grue-Crew highly recommended selection with special effects by Greg Cannom, Doug Beswick, Mark Shostrom, Kevin Yagher, and more!
Be sure to check out the first time the 80s Grue-Crew took a dive into this film in February 2017, featuring Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, and Thomas Mariani as the Grue-Crew. You can find it here: A NIGHTMARE ON ELMS STREET 3: DREAM WARRIORS (1987) — Episode 102
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Jeff, will be The Changeling (1980), starring George C. Scott, Trish Van Devere, Melvyn Douglas, . . . and a bouncing, red, rubber ball.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Louis, sometimes dead is better. The Indians knew that. They stopped using that burial ground when the ground went sour.” You know who wrote those words. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they brave the Micmac burial ground beyond the deadfall past the pet cemetery in Stephen King’s Pet Sematary (1989).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 223 – Pet Sematary (1989)
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After tragedy strikes, a grieving father discovers an ancient burial ground behind his home with the power to raise the dead.
By the end of the Eighties, a Stephen King feature film adaptation was practically a given. On this episode of Decades of Horror 1980s, the Grue-Crew dive into a fan-favorite, Pet Sematary (1989). The cast includes Dale Midkiff, Fred Gwynne, Denise Crosby, and Miko Hughes as Gage. Guard your ankles! With Stephen King handling the scripting chores himself, Mary Lambert directs this box office hit for Paramount Pictures with a budget of $11.5M, bringing in $89.5M.
Be sure to revisit the first time an 80s Grue-Crew (Thomas Mariani, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher, and Adam Thomas) covered this film here: Pet Sematary (1989) – Episode 115
If you’re in the mood for some proof that, “sometimes, dead is better,” Pet Sematary is currently streaming from Paramount+, Prime Video, and Epix, as well as several PPV sources. In terms of physical media, the movie is available in Blu-ray and 4K UHD formats from Paramount.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, will be A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987). Are you ready for prime time?
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“You’ll be dead Galen Bradwarden, Sorcerer’s Apprentice. You’ll be dead, the dragon will still be alive, and I’ll still be a virgin! You’ll be dead, and I don’t care!” Sounds like a good foundation for a lasting relationship, right? Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out probably the most realistic dragon (did I hear someone say wyvern?) set to film in Dragonslayer (1981).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 222 – Dragonslayer (1981)
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A King has made a pact with a dragon where he sacrifices virgins to it, and the dragon leaves his kingdom alone. An old wizard, and his keen young apprentice volunteer to kill the dragon and attempt to save the next virgin in line, the King’s own daughter.
Dragonslayer is Bill’s pick. Surprise! He had read about the technique called go-motion and really enjoys it, calling Vermathrax Pejorative one of the greatest dragons ever put on film. It is also one of his favorite kinds of fantasy movies; one where the world is messy and dirty, and a noble character does not get rescued despite audience expectations.
Crystal labels Dragonslayer as one of her all-time favorite movies. It would not be nearly so memorable for her without the special effects and the dragon. She also points out that technically, it is a wyvern, not a dragon. Not a big fan of pure fantasy movies, Jeff loves seeing Dragonslayer for the first time, especially the work from professionals like Phil Tippett & Dennis Muren. The Grue-Crew is universally impressed with Caitlin Clarke’s performance as Valerian and wishes that she was given much more work as a female lead.
If you’re in the mood for a great fire-breathing wyvern, née dragon, you can’t do better than Dragonslayer. At the time of this writing, it is available to stream from Kanopy, Prime, and Paramount+. As far as physical media, a Blu-ray version of Dragonslayer is scheduled for a 21 March 2023 release from Paramount.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be Pet Sematary (1989), directed by Mary Lambert from the novel and screenplay by Stephen King. Sometimes, dead is better.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“All right. We’re gonna do this the scanner way. I’m gonna suck your brain dry!” Yikes! Can we not do it the scanner way? Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they go in for some vintage 1980s David Cronenberg with Scanners (1981). That’s right. Somebody’s head will explode.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 221 – Scanners (1981)
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A scientist trains a man with an advanced telepathic ability called “scanning,” to stop a dangerous Scanner with extraordinary psychic powers from waging war against non-scanners.
Jeff has always been drawn to stories of humans with paranormal powers so Scanners is right up his alley. He came for the legendary exploding head and stayed for the story . . . and, of course, Patrick McGoohan’s and Michael Ironside’s performances. Bill saw Scanners in a theater and witnessed the audience flipping out at the scene. It is the closest thing to an X-men movie he’d found up to that time. After his buddy snuck him into the theater, Scanners seemed like a superhero movie to Chad. Even now, he enjoys it more every time he watches it, always noticing something new.
It probably goes without saying, but as usual, they say it anyway. Michael Ironside! Holy Cow! His performance is . . . over-the-top? Uninhibited? Off the wall? Sick? Dope? Well, you get the idea. They ran out of words.
At the time of this writing, Scanners is available to stream from HBOmax, Criterion Channel, and IndieFlix as well as some PPV options, and on physical media as a Blu-ray from Criterion.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be Dragonslayer (1981). They don’t need any stinking CGI.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Tetsuo is our friend. If anyone is going to kill him, it should be us.” That’s what friends are for, right? Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they take on the Decades of Horror universe’s first anime in Katsuhiro Ôtomo’s Akira (1988).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 220 – Akira (1988)
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A secret military project endangers Neo-Tokyo when it turns a biker gang member into a rampaging psychic psychopath who can only be stopped by a teenager, his gang of biker friends, and a group of psychics.
Akira is Chad’s pick and it completely blew his mind as he watched it for the first time with his mouth hanging open. It’s not just the animation that still captures his attention. It’s also the excellent stories and characters, the relationships, and how it leaned into body horror during the confrontation between Kaneda and Tetsuo. There is so much going on that it’s a treat to sit down and watch it. Akira keeps getting better every time he experiences it.
Crystal also loves the characters and their relationships depicted in the oppressed society of Akira. Those psychic kids messed her up and the animation is great, but it’s really the story that makes it special. Bill prefers watching Akira in the original Japanese language with English subtitles, adding that this beautiful and influential film is an unrelenting and brutal bloodbath of a film in which no character is safe. Akira is the first anime Jeff’s seen with the exception of the original Astro Boy TV series (1963-1965) and he, too, is blown away. There seemed to be no top end as the story, color, and animation just kept ramping up. He’s so glad Chad chose this film.
In general, the 80s Grue Crew prefers the version with Japanese language and English subtitles, but it is difficult to take in the visual feast while reading subtitles. At the time of this writing, Akira is available to stream from Hulu, Funimation, and Tubi, and on physical media as a Blu-ray disc or 4K UHD from Funimation.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Jeff, will be David Cronenberg’s Scanners (1981). You know… the one with the scene?
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Eat shit and die, Ricky!” “Eat shit and live, Bill.” Yup. Sounds like your typical summer camp version of witty patter. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they finally cover the notorious Sleepaway Camp (1983).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 219 – Sleepaway Camp (1983)
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Angela Baker, a shy, traumatized young girl, is sent to summer camp with her cousin. Shortly after her arrival, anyone with sinister or less-than-honorable intentions toward her gets their comeuppance.
Sleepaway Camp is one of Crystal’s favorite movies. In fact, she loves it right from the opening scene depicting a boating accident and describes the film as intentionally funny. She loves Desiree Gould as Angela’s Aunt Martha and the two camp snarks, Judy and Meg. She also issues the caveat that you shouldn’t watch it if you’re not open to some politically incorrect attempts at humor.
Chad differs from Crystal and does not think Sleepaway Camp is intended to be funny, but he does think it’s an okay slasher with good makeup effects. Bill went in with low expectations but was pleasantly surprised by Sleepaway Camp, calling it a slice of 80s cheese. Back in the day, Jeff heard the rumors about Sleepaway Camp and its shocking ending so he rented the video to verify it for himself, and indeed, the rumors were true. He was shocked. Now he enjoys the film, its appropriately juvenile humor, and its inventive kills.
It might go without saying but it will be said nonetheless. The 80s Grue Crew unanimously loves Felissa Rose.
At the time of this writing, Sleepaway Camp can be streamed from Peacock and several ad-based services. A Blu-ray disc is available from Scream! Factory.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, will be Akira (1988), a “Japanese animated cyberpunk action film directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, … based on Otomo’s 1982 manga of the same name,” according to Wikipedia
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“Forget the cat, you hemorrhoid! Get the gun!” Yeah! Get your priorities straight! Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they take in another portmanteau, especially for your Halloween viewing/listening pleasure, Stephen King’s Cat’s Eye (1985).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 218 – Cat’s Eye (1985)
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Synopsis: A stray cat attempting to find a little girl in trouble is the linking element of three tales of suspense and horror. In “Quitters, Inc.”: the cat is picked up by a shady New York City “doctor” who uses experimental techniques to get people to quit smoking. In “The Ledge”: the cat is picked up by a shady Atlantic City millionaire who forces his wife’s lover to participate in a terrifying bet. In “The General”: the cat arrives in Wilmington, North Carolina, where it is found by the young girl it has been sent to protect from an unbelievable threat.
If you’ve listened to even a few Decades of Horror 1980s episodes, you know that Bill is a very serious cat person, so it should come as no surprise that an anthology featuring a cat coming to the rescue is his choice for this episode. He liked Stephen King’s original short stories that makeup two of the three segments in Cat’s Eye, and as a mid-level Stephen King production, it holds up very well and he still enjoys it.
Crystal remembers loving Cat’s Eye as a kid and even looking up to Drew Barrymore. She remembers it being scarier through a kid’s eyes but in the end, it’s a feel-good movie with the cat finding his “forever home.” She agrees with Bill that the movie doesn’t seem dated at all and has held up very well. Jeff agrees with Crystal. To him, Cat’s Eye seems milder than he remembers, but he still enjoys it as an example of a well-shot movie with good storytelling and a great cast.
If you have a hankering to watch an anthology film, you won’t go wrong with Cat’s Eye. At the time of this writing, Cat’s Eye can be streamed from HBOmax, Tubi, and a host of PPV options. It is available on physical media as a Blu-ray from Warner Brothers.
For reviews of other Stephen King-based movies, check out these Decades of Horror podcasts:
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be Sleepaway Camp (1983). Yes, that one.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“I really liked your story, Frankie. I wish I was as weird as you.” You are. Trust us. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they travel to upstate New York on Halloween for this quirky independent ghost story, Lady in White (1988).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 217 – Lady in White (1988)
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An author tells the story of how, as a young boy growing up in a 1960s small town, he was haunted after witnessing the murder of a little girl.
Lady in White is Jeff’s pick and he loves the family dynamics depicted in the film coupled with a ghost story that includes racism and a serial killer. Crystal sees traces of A Christmas Story (1983) in the use of a narrator and a young boy who sends away for a prized possession, this time a typewriter instead of a decoder ring. She also lauds future Oscar winner Russell Carpenter’s cinematography and the cast’s acting, singling out Lukas Haas for his cuteness factor. Finally, for her, the combination of child murders and racism coats Lady in White with a patina of sadness.
Bill describes Lady in White as being good in a lot of ways but just missing the mark of being a great movie. Each element is fine by itself but the humor makes a weird mix in a film featuring a child-molesting serial killer. He also singles out Ernest Farino as a frequent provider of quality visual effects in independent films. It comes through, for Bill, that Lady in White is made by someone who loves the material and loves movies.
As of this writing, Lady in White is available to stream from Shudder. Unfortunately, the Scream Factory Blu-ray is currently out-of-print.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be Stephen King’s Cat’s Eye (1985), an anthology film starring James Woods and Drew Barrymore, just in time for Halloween.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website, or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“It says here the body showed signs of cannibalism. … That’s what it says, Chief!” Exactly what are “signs of cannibalism,” Chief? Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they investigate the “signs” in Antonio Margheriti’s Cannibal Apocalypse (1980), starring John Saxon.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 216 – Cannibal Apocalypse (1980)
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Mentally unstable Vietnam vets who were held captive by the Vietcong come back to America after being rescued carrying a dangerous virus that turns people into cannibals when bitten.
IMDb
Did you ever have one of those movies that you didn’t think you’d seen, but when you finally watched it, it turned out you already had? That’s the case for Chad and his pick for this episode, Cannibal Apocalypse, also known as Cannibals in the Streets, Cannibal Massacre, Cannibals in the City, Invasion of the Fleshhunters, Savage Apocalypse, Savage Slaughterers, The Slaughterers, Apocalypse domani, and Asphalt-Kannibalen. With all those alternate titles, it’s easy to see how he might have been confused.
This time around, Chad points out that this allegory for Viet Nam veterans returning home has no one to root for. He’s a John Saxon fan and thinks he is the best thing about the movie, but he is perplexed by the film and the fact that it even exists.
Crystal loves John Saxon as well, especially his confused and shocked look when he sees his troops in the pit eating human flesh. The film is trying to be serious with a metaphor depicting PTSD as some type of contagious cannibalism but in the end, it doesn’t really know what it wants to be. And beware! There are triggers aplenty.
Bill generally appreciates director Margheriti’s work and can see why Quentin Tarantino likes him, but Cannibal Apocalypse feels to him like Margheriti wanted to make a Viet Nam movie but could only get money for a horror film and it turns out to be a bit of a mess. He does like the idea of war as a virus that comes home. Just because you’re no longer on the battlefield doesn’t mean you can escape it.
Margheriti’s The Long Hair of Death (1965) was covered in Decades of Horror: The Classic Era Episode 110 but Jeff sees few similarities between that and Cannibal Apocalypse. He loves Giannetto De Rossi’s special effects and of course, John Saxon’s performance, but also gives a trigger warning for several scenes.
At the time of this writing, Cannibal Apocalypse is available to stream from Tubi and on physical media as a Blu-ray from Kino Lorber.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Jeff, will be Lady in White (1988), a serial killer/ghost story starring Lukas Haas.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“I am Ergo, the magnificent. Short in stature, tall in power, narrow of purpose, and wide of vision. And I do not travel with peasants and beggars. Goodbye!” No brag, just fact. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out the epic quest depicted in Krull (1983).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 215 – Krull (1983)
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A prince and a fellowship of companions set out to rescue his bride from a fortress of alien invaders who have arrived on their home planet.
Crystal has always been a fan of fantasy and has loved Krull since her childhood so it’s not surprising that this is her pick. In fact, she always wanted to be Lyssa. She also loves the handsome and oh-so-precious lead and the costumes, and when she first saw the film, she was afraid of the Widow of the Web.
Steven Archer’s stop motion animation of the crystal spider is Bill’s favorite part of Krull. Well, that and the cyclops. He’s disappointed in the way the Beast is shot, especially after learning of all that went into its design. And, of course, you’ve got to love the glaive, a very stupid yet very cool weapon.
Chad is a big fan of sword and sorcery, and distinctive weapons so Krull is one of his favorites. He is particularly impressed with the cyclops, the beast, and some of the sets with their feel of German expressionism. He does, however, view it as being incohesive with a lot of the story that doesn’t make sense. Jeff describes Krull as a beautiful movie with its sets, locations, production design, and costumes, He also gives a special nod to Freddie Jones for the added gravitas he gives the film.
If you are hungering for some glaive-work or an 80s, sword and sorcery, quest movie with horrific elements (did we forget to mention the changelings?), Krull is just the ticket. At the time of this writing, Krull is available for streaming from HBOmax and various PPV options. As far as physical media, Krull is currently available as a Sony Pictures Home Entertainment Blu-ray.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, will be Cannibal Apocalypse (1983), directed by Antonio Margheriti and starring John Saxon! Or is it Cannibals in the Streets? Or Apocalypse domani? Or Invasion of the Fleshhunters? Or Cannibal Massacre? Or… well, you get the picture.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
‘Brundle stole my girl, your mother. Got her pregnant. Caused her death. Dissolved my hand and my foot with fly vomit! I had no love for the man. He “bugged” me!’ Doesn’t he know when life gives you lemons you should make lemonade? Sheesh. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out The Fly II (1989), the worthy sequel to David Cronenberg’s The Fly.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 214 – The Fly II (1989)
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The almost-human son of “Brundlefly” searches for a cure to his mutated genes while being monitored by a nefarious corporation that wishes to continue his father’s experiments.
IMDb
The Fly II ain’t no slouch, even when compared to David Cronenberg’s The Fly (1986). This one is Bill’s pick and to his mind, even though The Fly II doesn’t have Cronenberg, effects guru Chris Walas does an excellent job directing his first film. It has a number of high points, including a really monstrous monster.
Chad is glad they didn’t try to redo The Fly, taking The Fly II in a different direction and letting it tell its own story while carrying on themes from the first movie, thanks to writing from Frank Darabont. He loves the effects and the insane gore and almost always goes on to watch The Fly II whenever he watches The Fly.
Crystal likes The Fly II almost as much as The Fly because there are clear antagonists that get what they deserve. She loves the music and the crazy effects of this real and true sequel. She also identifies Eric Stoltz as a phenomenal actor. The Fly II is far better than Jeff remembers it being. He specifically calls out the cast, the story, the original creature, and the practical effects.
If you haven’t seen The Fly II in a while, it’s time to check it out again. While you’re at it, make it a double feature with The Fly and throw in another listen to THE FLY (1986) — Episode 91 — Decades Of Horror 1980s. At the time of this writing, The Fly II is available to stream from HBOmax and as physical media on one of five Blu-ray discs included in Scream Factory’s The Fly Collection. Also included in The Fly Collection are The Fly (1958), Return of the Fly (1959), Curse of the Fly (1965), and The Fly (1986).
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be Krull (1983)! You asked for it!
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“What… the eff was that?” That’s a very good question! Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out this legendary low-budget film with big-budget effects, The Deadly Spawn (1983).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 213 – The Deadly Spawn (1983)
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Alien creatures invade a small town and four teenagers, along with a young boy, attempt to escape from them.
IMDb
The Deadly Spawn is Jeff’s pick by way of Doc Rotten. For him, this movie is balls out once the title characters appear. Charles, the film’s monster kid, saves the day while everyone else flounders. He loves the scene with the women’s group, the head removals, and the body thrown out the upstairs window.
Chad first heard of The Deadly Spawn in Fangoria, but it never seemed to be available for him to view it. He finally got it on DVD and holy cow, he loves this movie. The creature is absolutely bonkers and with characters that are interesting, the movie is a fun-as-hell, crazy romp. Crystal can’t believe how low-budget The Deadly Spawn is and how good the acting and the special effects are. Bill also first heard of The Deadly Spawn in Fangoria but assumed it would be one of those movies where the monster looked good in the stills but not so good in the movie. Instead, he found a really good, practically iconic creature feature. It’s hard to believe the budget is so low and yet the monster is better than those in some pictures from Holywood with much bigger budgets.
If you haven’t seen this legendary film, the 80s Grue-Crew command that you do. As of this writing, The Deadly Spawn is streaming from Shudder and is available on DVD from Synapse Films.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be The Fly II (1989) with Eric Stoltz and Daphne Zuniga and directed by Chris Walas.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“You see my dear, immortality exacts a handsome price. Both for those who must claim it and those who must pave the way.” Seems like a simple equation. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out Tom Savini as the ripper in this straight-to-video effort, The Ripper (1985).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 212 – The Ripper (1985)
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An old antique ring turns a college professor into a homicidal maniac when he puts it on. The ring originally belonged to Jack the Ripper, and the Ripper’s spirit possesses whoever wears it.
The Ripper caught Chad’s eye as it had many times on the video rental store shelf, but this time he went for it. The verdict? He’s never seen such a long, drawn-out movie where entire scenes were of no use and were stretched out for no reason. He chose this movie for the 80s Grue Crew because of the presence of Tom Savini, who plays the title character, but he wasn’t enough to outweigh the bad.
Bill also loves Tom Savini, but not this film in which even the padding is padded and long dialogue scenes go nowhere. On the plus side, the effects work is fairly well done for lowbudget gore. Agreeing with Chad and Bill, Jeff describes the script as mundane with very bad jokes. He likes the general idea of the story but the execution needed to capitalize on that idea is missing from The Ripper.
If you’re a Savini completist or just want to see what the 80s Grue Crew is talking about, at the time of this writing, The Ripper can be streamed from Tubi and Screambox.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Jeff, will be The Deadly Spawn (1983), filmed in artist Tim Hildebrandt’s house and featuring the effects of John Dods!
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“By pick, by axe, by sword, bye-bye!” They forgot by pitchfork, by gaff hook, and by pointy coat hooks. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out the mutilations in The Mutilator (1984).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 211 – The Mutilator (1984)
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A college student, who accidentally killed his mother as a child, decides to take his friends to his father’s fishing cabin during fall break, not knowing that his crazed father is stalking the place.
Crystal chose The Mutilator when she saw that a sequel had just wrapped filming and is scheduled for a September 2022 release. According to her, this is not a case of so-bad-it’s-good, it’s just bad. It’s strange and weird and there are no surprises in the story. On the plus side, there is some decent gore.
Chad views The Mutilator as a cross between a Mentos commercial and Growing Pains (TV Series, 1985-1992). In other words, it’s not good. He’s also puzzled by the lead not being bothered at all by the deaths of friends. However, it’s great to see some of Mark Shostrum’s early effects work and there are some creative kills. The actors in The Mutilator give it the old college try with their attempts at campy humor but they are not supported in their efforts by the script, according to Jeff. For him, the only positive is Mark Shostrum’s effects work.
To summarize, your 80s Grue-Crew is none too enamored with The Mutilator, but if you’re a Mark Shostrum fan or want to prepare for the sequel’s release, you might still want to check it out. As of this writing, The Mutilator is available to stream free with ads from Tubi and from multiple subscription services, including Shudder and Arrow. In terms of physical media, The Mutilator (2-Disc Special Edition) [Blu-ray + DVD ] is available from Arrow Video.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, will be The Ripper (1985) “starring” Tom Savini!
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“Release the Kraken!” Chad does his best impression of James Mason doing Laurence Olivier in recreating that iconic command. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they get pretty wound up discussing Ray Harryhausen’s last feature film, Clash of the Titans (1981).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 210 – Clash of the Titans (1981)
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Perseus must battle Medusa and the Kraken to save Princess Andromeda.
Ray Harryhausen is the reason Bill is involved in filmmaking, so it makes sense that Clash of the Titans is his choice for the 80s Grue-Crew. He looks in wonder at the brilliant-in-every-way Medusa sequence and voices his appreciation for how producer Charles Schneer enabled Harryhausen to make the movies he did.
Chad was bored out of his mind during the first half of Clash of the Titans but it picked up for him once the journeys and quests begin. The scenes with Medusa are thick with tension, the witches and Calibos are amazing, and he always loves Burgess Meredith. Even though Clash of the Titans is pretty bad in some places, Crystal loves it wholeheartedly. She sees it as an awesome epic with just enough whimsy to balance the scares. And, oh yeah, Medusa! For Jeff, there are opportunities with the back and forth manipulations between the gods to energize the first half of Clash of the Titans, but they aren’t put to good use. He is all aboard with the Medusa appreciation, calling it one of the quintessential stop motion sequences in movies.
The 80s Grue-Crew are universally pleased that Harryhausen was able to go out on a high note with a bigger budget film. At the time of this writing, Clash of the Titans is available to stream from HBOmax and multiple PPV, and on physical media as a Warner Brothers Blu-ray.
If you are interested in more of Ray Harryhausen’s work, check out the following Decades of horror episodes:
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal, will be The Mutlilator (1984). Oh-oh.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“Why do you keep telling me to go on with those pills? I feel fine. I never felt better! My nerves are fine the way they are!” If you moved into a house in the middle of a cemetery with an actual tomb inside the house, and it was the site of a murder-suicide, your nerves might be shot too. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out the final entry in Lucio Fulci’s Gates of Hell Trilogy, The House by the Cemetery (1981).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 209 – The House by the Cemetery (1981)
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A New England home is terrorized by a series of murders, unbeknownst to the guests that a gruesome secret is hiding in the basement.
IMDb
The House by the Cemetery, aka Quella villa accanto al cimitero (original title), is Jeff’s pick and he loves it. Despite the weird voice dubbed for Bob, the young boy in the story, he digs the atmospheric music, the long-drawn-out kill scenes, and what turns out to be a fairly coherent story, at least for a Fulci film. Crystal also loves The House by the Cemetery. Besides having maggots, gruesome kills, a weird story, and a creepy kid, it’s very well shot.
The little boy is not cute, according to Bill, and he too describes the horrible voice dubbing of said boy. Though The House by the Cemetery is not his favorite of the trilogy, he still thinks it’s pretty cool. Despite the frequent scenes of characters walking around the house calling out names, it is pretty to look at and really well made.
The Decades of Horror Grue Crews always have something to say about Lucio Fulci’s work. Here are the Decades of Horror episodes discussing Fulci’s work:
As of this writing, The House by the Cemetery is available to stream from Shudder. In terms of physical media, Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD discs from Blue Underground are available.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill, will be Clash of the Titans (1981) with a stellar cast and, of course, the magic of Ray Harryhausen!
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“You know, I mostly get your basic dorks around here. They seem to gravitate toward me… I don’t know why!” Hmmm. Guys go to a strip joint looking for a stripper and find vampires? May the dork be with you. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out the force of nature known as Grace Jones in Vamp (1986).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 207 – Vamp (1986)
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Two fraternity pledges travel to a sleazy bar in search of a stripper for their college friends, unaware it is occupied by vampires.
Crystal is a big Grace Jones fan so it’s no surprise that Vamp is Crystal’s pick. She has such a good time laughing along with this movie that she enjoys it just as much, maybe more, watching as an adult. She describes Grace Jones as a work of art in Vamp and gives Gedde Watanabe a big thumbs up for his performance.
Chad’s view of Vamp is that if you love cheesy, 80s horror, there’s not much to criticize. There’s a lot of silly 80s stuff, but it’s good silly 80s stuff. He loves Robert Rusler, Chris Makepeace, Grace Jones, and, of course, the vampires! Vamp is an odd little, very 80s film according to Bill and he likes the Nosferatu-like vampires. Grace Jones has such a [resence and her dance is iconic. Jeff is also in awe of the performance given by Grace Jones and is impressed with the effects work. To his surprise, he kind of got into the college-guy humor in Vamp.
The 80s Grue-Crew universally enjoys Vamp! If you hear anything that sparks your interest, Vamp is currently available to stream from Tubi (free w/ads) as well as a variety of subscription and PPV options. If physical media is your thing, Vamp is available as a Special Edition [Blu-ray] from Arrow Video and as a Blu-ray from Image Entertainment. That’s all “as of this writing,” of course.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad will be Evil Dead Trap (1988), a no-holds-barred journey into J-horror courtesy of Toshiharu Ikeda.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
“I mean, in a sense, we’re all vampires.” Everyone is draining the life out of everyone else in one way or another? Hmmm, that’s a dark take, but a fair point. Join your faithful Grue-Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, Crystal Cleveland, and Jeff Mohr – as they drain everything possible from Tobe Hooper’s Lifeforce (1985).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 206 – Lifeforce (1985) Join the Crew on the Gruesome Magazine YouTube channel!
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A race of space vampires arrives in London and infects the populace, beginning an apocalyptic descent into chaos.
Lifeforce is the first of three films Tobe Hooper made with Cannon, followed by Invaders From Mars (1986) and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986). As Bill’s pick, it’s a film he frequently revisits trying to understand the choices made during its making. He’s always liked the film, even while feeling a bit baffled. Chad first read about Lifeforce in Fangoria. He loved how crazy and wild it was when he first saw it and he still does. Chad’s never quite sure what he thinks of Steve Railsback’s performance because to him, he’ll always be the Charles Manson he portrayed in Helter Skelter (1976). The excellent practical and visual effects are what pull Jeff into this movie.
All three of this episode’s Grue-Crew compare Lifeforce to the feel of Hammer’s Quatermass and the Pit (1967) and indeed, may have been a better picture if Hooper had gone full-Quatermass. And of course, they all agree that Mathilda May is phenomenal at portraying the female vampire with style and grace while spending nearly the entire film unabashedly nude.
For other Decades of Horror discussions of Tobe Hooper films (and Quatermass and the Pit to boot), checkout the following episodes:
If you so desire, at the time of this writing, you can stream Lifeforce from Tubi and PlutoTV with ads, or from various PPV streaming services. If physical media is what trips your trigger, Lifeforce (Collector’s Edition) (4K UHD) is scheduled for release May 24, 2022 from Scream Factory. And let’s face it, it’s always time to revisit Tobe Hooper’s films.
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal will be Vamp (1986), featuring a speechless Grace Jones.
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 205 – Halloween II (1981)
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While Dr. Loomis hunts for Michael Myers, a traumatized Laurie is rushed to Haddonfield Memorial Hospital, and The Shape is not far behind her.
Halloween II, the sometimes denigrated sequel to the original, is Jeff’s pick. The film picks up right where Halloween (1978) left off but with much more of an 80s slasher feel than the first entry in the franchise. Jeff laments the “apparent” loss of Dr. Loomis and thinks Laurie Strode is more of a target than an active participant. Crystal advises viewers that if they watch Halloween II without thinking too much, they’ll have a good time. She doesn’t care one way or the other about the reveal that Laurie is Michael’s sister and points out Michael’s move into the realm of the supernatural with his ability to survive umpteen point-blank gunshots.
Chad is glad Halloween II is different from the first entry in the franchise. To his mind, it would have failed if the filmmakers had tried to copy John Carpenter’s seminal work. He agrees that the filmmakers beefed up the gore and the violence to compete with early 80s slashers. He liked it coming out of the theater in 1981 and he still likes it. Though admittedly not fond of the Halloween franchise, Bill enjoys Halloween II more now than when he first saw it. He still doesn’t care for the Laurie-is-Michael’s-sister twist, pointing out that the idea doesn’t really go anywhere in this specific movie.
Collectively, your 1980s Grue-Crew enjoy Halloween II and though admitting it doesn’t reach the heights of its predecessor, give it a hearty recommendation. Hey! It’s Halloween! At the time of this writing, Halloween II can be streamed from Shudder and Tubi (w/ads) and is available on physical media as a SHOUT! Factory Collector’s Edition [4K UHD] and on Blu-ray as a stand-alone or in a variety of box set combinations from multiple companies.
For more Halloween franchise-related podcasts, check out these episodes from the Gruesome Magazine family of podcasts:
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the 1980s. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill will be Tobe Hooper’s Lifeforce (1985).
Please let them know how they’re doing! They want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave them a message or leave a comment on the gruesome Magazine Youtube channel, on the website or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com