The Grue-Crew unleash the New World Picture’s Alien rip-off, FORBIDDEN WORLD (1982) from Roger Corman. Directed by Allan Holzman, this trashy cult classic features effects from John Carl Buechler, Mark Shostrom, and more handling the Mutant gooey and gory designs and make-up. The cast includes Dan Oliver, Jesse Vint, June Chadwick, Linden Chiles, Scott Paulin, Dawn Dunlap, Fox Harris, Michael Bowen, and Ray Oliver. For those old enough, you likely watched this movie multiple times on cable movie channels, not because it was good but because it was bonkers. Enjoy!
FORBIDDEN WORLD (1982)
Episode 308 – Decades of Horror 1980s
Quote: “Let’s go bag ourselves a Dingwhopper!” – Mike Colby
Synopsis: “In the distant future, a federation marshal arrives at a research lab on a remote planet where a genetic experiment has gotten loose and begins feeding on the dwindling scientific group.”
““A Science Fiction Horror Adventure That’ll Blow You Away!” – tagline
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from that decade. The next episode’s film, chosen by Crystal Cleveland, is THE PROWLER (1981), complete with Tom Savini effects! See you then!
Please let us know how they’re doing! We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave us 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.
The Grue-Crew head back to the Eighties, back to school, and back to senior prom for the cult favorite HELLO MARY LOU: PROM NIGHT II (1987). Directed by Bruce Pittman and written by Ron Oliver, the film features Michael Ironside, Wendy Lyon, Louis Ferreira, and Lisa Schrage as Mary Lou Maloney. It feels a bit like a supernatural infused "Carrie" clone but it contains fun kills, gore when it needs it, and a fun new horror villain that we deserved much more of in this movie… and more. Check this one out on streaming if you haven't seen it and enjoy the Grue-Crew's take on this entertaining Canadian spooky slasher. Let us know what YOU think of it!
HELLO MARY LOU: PROM NIGHT II (1987)
Episode 307 - Decades of Horror 1980s
Synopsis: "Thirty years after her accidental death at her 1957 senior prom, the tortured spirit of prom queen Mary Lou Maloney returns to seek revenge." - IMDb
"In 1957, Mary Lou Maloney went up in flames. Now she's back. And she's burning mad." - tagline
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the that decade. The next episode’s film, chosen by Bill Mulligan, is the Roger Corman sleezy gore-fest FORBIDDEN PLANET (1982). See you then!
Please let us know how they’re doing! We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans – so leave us 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.
The Grue-Crew revisit the Arnold Schwarzenegger action, sci-fi, horror fan favorite, PREDATOR (1987). The direction from John McTieran, the creature design from Stan Winston, the score from Alan Silvesti, the cinematography from Donald McAlpine, and the cast all add up to a marvelous, thrilling cinematic experience that holds up today. And that case, c'mon, in addition to Arnold, the boasts Carl Weathers, Elpidia Carillo, Bill Duke, Jesse Ventura, Sonny Landham, Richard Chaves, R.G. Armstrong, Shane Black, and Kevin Peter Hall as the Predator. And, let's not forget the quotes: "If it bleed, we can kill it", "Get to the chopper", and "I don't have time to bleed" are only a few. The Crew soak it all in and have a lengthy discussion about the film, the cast of characters, and some surprising behind the scenes tidbit. Enjoy!
PREDATOR (1987)
Episode 305 - Decades of Horror 1980s
Every two weeks, Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s podcast will cover another horror film from the that decade. The next episode’s film, chosen by Chad, is the zombie curiosity THE DEAD NEXT DOOR (1989). See you then!
Please let us know how we're doing! We 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.
The Grue-Crew line up for Bill's pick, EXCALIBUR (1981), a fantasy horror-adjacent epic featuring an amazing cast and stunning visuals. This take on the Arthurian legend is a must watch and deserves attention and discussion.
EXCALIBUR (1981)
Decades of Horror 1980s - Episode 304
Quote: "A dream to some, a nightmare to others!" - Merlin
Synopsis: "Merlin the magician helps Arthur Pendragon unite the Britons around the Round Table of Camelot, even as dark forces conspire to tear it apart." - IMDb
Director: John Boorman
Writer: John Boorman, Thomas Malory, Rospo Pallenberg
Cast: Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Nicolas Clay, Cherie Lunghi, Paul Geoffrey, Nicol Williamson, Robert Addie, Gabriel Byrne, Liam Neeson, Patrick Stewart, Ciaran Hinds, Clive Swift
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Next up for Decades of Horror 1980s is a pick from Crystal, PREDATOR (1987)! See you there!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave a message or leave a comment on the Gruesome Magazine YouTube channel, the website, or email the Decades of Horror: The Classic Era podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com To each of you from each of us, “Thank you so much for watching and listening!”
For episode 302, The Grue-Crew discuss the House series slasher film, THE HORROR SHOW (1989) on Decades of Horror 1980s.
“Never sneak up on a man when he's blasting Metallica” is the perfect quote to sum up the vibe of often overlooked horror movie featuring Lance Henricksen and Brion James. Join the Crew on the Gruesome Magazine YouTube channel! Subscribe today! Click the alert to get notified of new content!
Decades of Horror 1980s Episode 302 – THE HORROR SHOW (1989)
Synopsis: "Detective McCarthy finally catches "Meat Cleaver Max", a serial killer, who promises revenge during his execution. Nonetheless, a parapsychologist tells the detective that the only hope of stopping Max for good is to destroy his spirit." - IMDb
Director: James Isaac
Writer: Leslie Bohem, Alan Smithee
Cinematographer: Mac Ahlberg
Special Effects: KNB
Selected Cast: Lance Henricksen, Brion James, Rita Taggart, Dedee Pfieffer, Aron Eisenberg, Thom Bray.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era! Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website. Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop. https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
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 Doc: HELL NIGHT (1981) featuring Linda Blair.
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.
“A little bit nuts? You’re an unmitigated madman! You don’t have to tell me how weird you are. I know how weird you are!” It takes one to know one? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss a true classic: Ken Russell’s Altered States (1980).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 301 – Altered States (1980)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: A psycho-physiologist experiments with drugs and a sensory-deprivation tank and has visions he believes are genetic memories.
Crystal chose Altered States (1980) as her favorite horror film of 1980 for the Grue-Crew’s 300th episode of Decades of Horror 1980s, so it seemed only natural that she would immediately choose it for discussion. What an excellent movie! It’s directed by Ken Russell, written by Paddy Chayefsky, and stars William Hurt, Blair Brown, Bob Balaban, and Charles Haid, with a very recognizable supporting cast. Don’t forget the quality crew, including Dick Smith, Craig Reardon, Cal Fullerton, and Rick Baker on makeup effects, and Bran Ferren orchestrating visual effects. Yes, the story is overloaded with scientific and psychological mumbo jumbo, but that failing is outweighed by the excellent acting and the visual extravaganza presented in Altered States. We had fun recording this episode, and we hope you enjoy our talkabout!
At the time of this writing, Altered States (1980) is available to stream on Roku, Tubi, and various PPV services. It is available on 4K UHD and Blu-ray from Criterion and on Blu-ray from Warner Home 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, is Cat People (1982), a reimagining of Val Lewton and Jacques Tourneur’s 1942 original. Paul Schrader directs this version, which sports an incredible cast including Nastassja Kinski, Malcolm McDowell, John Heard, Annette O’Toole, and Ed Begley Jr. Yeah, baby!
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.
“I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass… and I’m all out of bubblegum.” – Nada, They Live (1988). Aren’t we all? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they have a bit of fun creating their own top tens from this radical, gory, influential, and gruesome decade.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 300 – Grue Crew Favorites by Year (1980-1989)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror 1970s is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
The Decades of Horror 1980s podcast began life as the Monster Movie Podcast and became Decades of Horror 1980s with episode 81 in April 2016. The current 80s Grue-Crew began with episode 145 in August 2019. They are now at episode 300 of this inspired experiment, and the current Crew decided to mark the milestone with a list: one “favorite” film from each year of the decade from each host, this time packed into one very long episode. Remember, these are the Crew’s “favorites,” not what they think are the best, most popular, or biggest box office movies. They also agreed not to duplicate any of their fellow hosts’ picks. This episode lists 40 films from the 1980s that the 80s Grue-Crew hold near and dear to their hearts. They hope you have as much fun listening to or watching this episode as they had recording it.
Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1980s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1970s. In two weeks, the next ‘80s episode, chosen by Crystal, will be Ken Russell’s Altered States (1980), written by Paddy Chayefsky, and starring William Hurt, Blair Brown, Bob Balaban, and Charle Haid. Now, this will be interesting.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com.
“The autopsy categorically excludes an extraterrestrial being. His molecular structure includes him in the human race.” Wait! Does that mean… atomic vampires are human? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss Umberto Lenzi’s atomic vampire flick Nightmare City (1980, Incubo sulla città contaminata). … or is it a zombie flick?
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 299 – Nightmare City (1980, Incubo sulla città contaminata)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: An airplane exposed to radiation lands, and blood-drinking zombies emerge armed with knives, guns, and teeth! They go on a rampage, slicing, dicing, and biting their way across the Italian countryside.
For this episode, your 80s Grue Crew wades through the poop-covered zombies (yeah, we know they’re atomic vampires) in Umberto Lenzi’s Nightmare City (1980). Or maybe you prefer one of these titles: Attack of the Zombies? City of the Walking Dead? Invasion by the Atomic Zombies? And those are just the English titles! Lenzi uses a unique blend of zombie and vampire tropes (does that make them zompires or vambies?) that confuses some of the Grew Crew (Jeff) just a little bit. Yes, these atomic vampires/zombies are intelligent, work together, and use weapons, but they don’t seem able to talk. Thank heavens for small favors. Then there’s the ending. It’s maybe the worst (or best, depending on your point of view) ending ever, times two! Remember. We take the hits so you don’t have to.
At the time of this writing, Nightmare City (1980) is available to stream from Wicked Horror TV, Kanopy. Mometu, Flix Fling, and assorted PPV options. It is available on 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, their 300th, will be something special. As the Grue Crews from Decades of Horror Classic Era and 1970s have done, the 1980s Grue Crew will each list their favorite horror films by year for the 1980s. We’re looking forward to it. In the meantime, what are your 1980s horror favorites by year?
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.
“Yeah. I killed my mama. One night – it was my 14th birthday – she was drunk, and we had an argument. She hit me with a whiskey bottle. I shot her. I shot her dead.” “I thought you said you stabbed her.” “Oh yeah. That’s right. I stabbed her.” Sheesh. Keep your stories straight. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss John McNaughton’s landmark film Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 298 – Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: Henry is a serial killer. When he gets to Chicago, he moves in with his ex-con acquaintance Otis, whose sister Becky also comes to stay. That’s when Henry starts schooling Otis in the ways of the serial killer.
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) is a stunning achievement from this cast and crew, many of whom were making their first movie. Its release was a bit of a trickle, but over the decades, the film has become a cult classic. It’s an amazing movie with equally amazing performances. Michael Rooker, Tom Towles, and Tracy Arnold perfectly depict what director/co-writer John McNaughton calls the Poetry of Idiocy. Henry is oh-so-good while being oh-so-disturbing and uncomfortable to watch. None other than Stuart Gordon claimed this movie had trouble finding distribution because it was “too bloody for the art crowd and too arty for the blood crowd.” Your 80s Grue-Crew have mixed reactions to Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, which makes for a much better discussion.
At the time of this writing, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) is available to stream from Pluto TV, Tubi, Plex, Prime, Arrow, and Screambox. It is available on Blu-ray from Dark Sky 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, is Nightmare City (1980), featuring Hugo Stiglitz and Mel Ferrer, and directed by Umberto Lenzi. The synopsis says “zombies,” but sources say they use guns, so who knows? It should be fun!
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.
“By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes.” Wait a minute. Is that what it means when your thumbs are pricking? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they visit Dark’s Pandemonium Carnival in Green Town, Illinois, via Disney’s Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) from Ray Bradbury’s novel and screenplay.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 297 – Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: In a small American town, a diabolical circus and its demonic proprietor prey on the townsfolk. Dark’s Pandemonium Carnival arrives in Green Town.
The 80s Grue-Crew have wanted to cover this one for some time and were excited to discover it streaming. Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) is a Disney film based on Ray Bradbury’s screen adaptation of his 1962 novel. It’s a shame that the filmmakers’ original vision will never be seen. At the last moment, the film was pulled from the schedule; a script rewrite was ordered behind Bradbury’s back; a new score was commissioned; new scenes were shot (the original director was not involved in their shooting); and a complete re-edit was conducted. The original film might have been a disaster or surprisingly good. No one will ever know. Considering the shameless “tinkering,” it’s surprising it’s as good as it is. The cast excels, and it still has that Bradbury feel of youthful years gone by. As Bradbury is quoted as saying, “… (it’s) not a great film, no, but a decently nice one.”
At the time of this writing, Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) is available to stream from Disney+.
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, is Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986), starring Michael Rooker. This will be a tough 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 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.
“You’re all gonna die in there! All of you! You are gonna die!” Well, for heaven’s sake, we all die. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986), the sequel to the Spielberg-Hooper blockbuster.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 296 – Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: The Freeling family has a new house, but their troubles with supernatural forces don’t seem to be over.
The 80s Grue-Crew head back to sequel land for this episode and stumble into Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986). The Crew love the cast (Julian Beck, Heather O’Rourke, Will Sampson, Craig T. Nelson, JoBeth Williams, Oliver Robins, Zelda Rubinstein, Geraldine Fitzgerald) and the practical effects from the likes of Steve Johnson, Randall William Cook, and Screaming Mad George, but found the story lacking… with reasons. Just when we thought we were winding up the episode, we entered into a thirty-minute debate on whether Brian Cox or Anthony Hopkins made the better Hannibal Lecter, prompted by several Grue-Believer comments on our episode on Manhunter (1986). What a fun episode!
At the time of this writing, Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986) is available to stream from Kanopy, Hoopla, Roku, MGM+, and multiple PPV sources. The movie is available on physical media as Poltergeist II: The Other Side – Collector’s Edition 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray [4K UHD] 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 Chad, is Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) with a screenplay by Ray Bradbury based on his novel. Dark’s Pandemonium Carnival is coming to town!
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.
“Do you know how you caught me? The reason you caught me, Will, is we’re just alike. If you want the scent, smell yourself.” Well, that, and you’re insane! Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they check out Hannibal Lecter’s coming-out party in Michael Mann’s Manhunter (1986).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 295 – Manhunter (1986)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: Former FBI profiler Will Graham returns to service to pursue a deranged serial killer dubbed “the Tooth Fairy” by the media.
From 1984 to 1989, Michael Mann produced 111 episodes of “Miami Vice,” a TV series that became a cultural phenomenon. He then applied those style elements, as the writer and director, to Manhunter (1986), an adaptation of Red Dragon, the 1981 novel by Thomas Harris. Do those same elements of style work in a horror movie? It doesn’t hurt that the film is populated with a top-notch cast & crew who create a good-looking, professional production. But what makes Manhunter even more interesting is that it’s the first appearance of Hannibal Lecter, the fictional character who goes on to become one of the most famous villains of the last 40 years. The Grue-Crew have fun straying into comparing Manhunter (1986) to Red Dragon (2002), its re-imagining sixteen years later. Hopefully, our fun is your fun!
At the time of this writing, Manhunter (1986) is available to stream from Kanopy, Roku, Criterion Channel, and multiple PPV sources.
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, is Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986). The sequel to Tobe Hooper’s Poltergeist (1982) features many of the same faces (JoBeth Williams, Craig T. Wilson, Heather O’Rourke, Oliver Robins, Zelda Rubinstein) and similar spectral shenanigans. And they even moved to a different house! It’s time to check it out!
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.
“You’ve seen them, haven’t you? You don’t have the eyes of the hunter. You have the eyes of the dead.” Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss the underappreciated film, Wolfen (1981).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 294 – Wolfen (1981)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: A New York cop investigates a series of brutal deaths that resemble animal attacks.
Wolfen (1981) is that other wolf-related movie released in 1981. This troubled production is based on Whitley Strieber’s 1978 novel of the same title and features Albert Finney, Diane Venora, Edward James Olmos, Gregory Hines, Tom Noonan, and some interesting visual and practical effects. The Grue-Crew are impressed with the cinematography and the ending, but the whole “wolfvision” thing, impressive at the time, looks a bit dated. But the wolves! The wolves are magnificently filmed! Jeff still loves Wolfen, but Bill and Crystal feel the film has suffered a bit with age. Either way, there is much to discuss… and to wonder about.
At the time of this writing, Wolfen (1981) is available to stream from Tubi, and multiple PPV sources. It is available on physical media as a Blu-ray formatted disc from the Warner Archive 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 Bill, is Manhunter (1986), based on the novel Red Dragon (1981) by Thomas Harris. The film is directed by Michael Mann and features William Petersen, Kim Greist, Joan Allen, Brian Cox, Stephen Lang, and Tom Noonan. Oh, boy! Here we go! Get ready to meet the first Hannibal Lecter.
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.
“If thy hand offend thee, cut it off and cast it aside. For it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” Keep your hands off my members! Join your faithful Grue Crew – Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr, and a late “appearance” by special guest host Jerry Chandler – as they discuss Demonoid (1981), a movie that isn’t about what it looks like it’s about.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 293 – Demonoid (1981)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: Spouses looking for silver in Mexico find a 300-year-old severed hand driven by a demon.
Nobody knows why, but Chad chose Demonoid (1981) for this episode — a movie featuring multiple, crawling, severed hands as the Left Hand of the Devil moves from person to person via their left hands, whether attached or not. Filmed primarily in Mexico, Demonoid is directed by Alfredo Zacarías and stars Samantha Eggar, Stuart Whitman, and Roy Jenson. The severed hands defy the laws of physics (I know, I know) as they leap through the air and throw people to the ground — actions depicted with quick edits. Of course, the Left Hand of the Devil must have supernatural powers, so it’s got that going for it. The movie comes complete with a silver hand-casket that has held the hand at bay for 300 years and features a Volkswagen Thing as the vehicle of choice for the leads. Unintentionally funny in places, the film still manages to pack a horror punch and is definitely a fun watch. To top it off, Jerry Chandler, a self-proclaimed Demonoid fan, joins us to share his take on the movie towards the end of the episode.
At the time of this writing, Demonoid (1981) is available to stream from Tubi, Pluto TV, Plex, and PPV sources. It is available on physical media as a Blu-ray formatted disc from Vinegar Syndrome.
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, is Wolfen (1981), the other werewolf-related movie released in 1981. This one is based on Whitley Strieber’s 1978 novel of the same title and features Albert Finney, Diane Venora, Edward James Olmos, Gregory Hines, Tom Noonan, and some interesting FX. Can’t wait!!
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.
“You admit it is possible for a piece of glass to retain the image of someone who sits in front of it for a great period of time?” Wait. No! Where do you get this nonsense? H. P. Lovecraft? Oh. Okay. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss The Unnamable (1988), about an unnamable creature that, oddly enough, has a name.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 292 – The Unnamable (1988)
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ANNOUNCEMENT
Decades of Horror The Classic Era is partnering with THE CLASSIC SCI-FI MOVIE CHANNEL, THE CLASSIC HORROR MOVIE CHANNEL, and WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL
Which all now include video episodes of The Classic Era!
Available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, Online Website.
Across All OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
https://classicscifichannel.com/; https://classichorrorchannel.com/; https://wickedhorrortv.com/
Synopsis: College students check out a haunted house where, in the 1800s, an ugly monster, called “the Unnamable,” was trapped in a vault.
The Unnamable (1988), based on the 1925 H. P. Lovecraft story of the same title, is the 80s Grue-Crew’s topic for this episode. The Crew generally agrees that it is a good-looking movie with excellent practical makeup effects, but that it’s still a bit of a slog in the watching. Even though parts of Lovecraft’s story are adhered to, the creature is more banshee, harpy, or demon than she is Lovecraftian. The film also treats viewers to some good old-fashioned gore of the throat-ripping, decapitation, and organ-removal variety. Is enduring the slog worth getting to the effects? The Grue-Crew is glad they watched it, but you be the judge.
At the time of this writing, The Unnamable (1988) is available to stream from Hoopla, Tubi, Plex, and Prime. It is available on physical media as a Blu-ray formatted disc from Unearthed Records.
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, is Demonoid (1981). Wait. Chad chose Demonoid? Really? This should be interesting.
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.
“Damn rotten kids. They’ll get what they deserve. Yeah. They’ll get what they deserve tonight.” Well, if you’re thinking razor blades in apples for Halloween, your wife might have other ideas, which will include the question: “How do you like them apples?” Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Chad Hunt, Bill Mulligan, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss Night of the Demons (1988), a Halloween cult classic from Kevin Tenney. Now, where did I put that lipstick?
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 291 – Night of the Demons (1988)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: Ten teenagers party at an abandoned funeral parlor on Halloween night. When an evil force awakens, demonic spirits keep them from leaving and turn their gathering into a living Hell.
Ten teenagers party at an abandoned funeral parlor on Halloween night. What could go wrong? It’s double-tap time again as the 80s Grue-Crew chew over the cult classic, Night of the Demons (1988), first covered six-and-a-half years ago in episode 144 by Christopher G. Moore and Vanessa Thompson. The current Crew finds Night of the Demons to be a tasty treat, especially once the film gets to Steve Johnson’s effects work. There is one brilliant gag after another as the demonic activity ramps up, with each effect better than the last. And, of course, the Crew is enamored of Linnea Quigley and Amelia Kinkade, especially Amelia’s dance scene and Linnea’s lipstick insertion scene, if you know what we mean, and unless you’ve seen this movie, we’re sure you don’t.
At the time of this writing, Night of the Demons (1988) is available to stream from Tubi, PlutoTV, Plex, Screambox, Shudder, AMC+, and Prime, as well as multiple PPV sources. It is available on physical media as a Collector’s Edition [4K UHD] 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, is The Unnamable (1988), a low-budget independent horror film with a Lovecraft pedigree. The Grue Crew always loves them some Lovecraft.
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.
“He’s not kidding! There’s a spaceship or something outside. There was three little guys that came out!” Maybe he should have led with, “Look what I got on video!” Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Chad Hunt, Jeff Mohr, and special guest Michael Steinberg – as they discuss The McPherson Tape (1989), an early found footage film depicting an alien abduction.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 290 – The McPherson Tape (1989)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: On a typical fall evening in 1983, a young man was videotaping his niece’s 5th birthday party. As the night’s strange occurrences took place, he kept his video camera running, recording the entire event.
What is the first found footage horror film? Wait, let’s rephrase that question. What is the first U.S. found footage horror film? The answer is undoubtedly The McPherson Tape (1989), also known as U.F.O. Abduction. You might also know the film as one of the first alien abduction hoaxes, although the filmmakers had no part in the “hoax.” Either way, it set many of the tropes that became standard in the as-yet-unnamed found footage subgenre. The film had no script, was shot with a single handheld video camera in a single take over one night, and featured no score. As rough as it is, The McPherson Tape is a landmark film that should be seen. Your 80s Grue Crew is joined for the occasion by Michael Steinberg, CEO of PlayNowMedia and founder of the Found Footage Critic website (foundfootagecritic.com). Michael also offers a special 50% off promo code for one of his streaming channels, but you’ll have to listen to find out which channel and what the code is.
At the time of this writing, The McPherson Tape (1989) is available to stream from Hoopla, Tubi, PlutoTV, and Plex, as well as multiple PPV sources. It is available on physical media as a DVD from POV Horror.
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, is Night of the Demons (1988), in which ten teenagers party in an abandoned funeral parlor on Halloween. What could go wrong?
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.
“I’ve lived for almost ten thousand years. Believe me, you have no idea what that means: boredom. Everlasting and hideous boredom.” It’s good to be bored once in a while, but ten thousand years? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they discuss Vampire Hunter D (1985), their third horror anime.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 289 – Vampire Hunter D (1985)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: In a post-nuclear holocaust world in the year 12,090 AD, the 10,000-year-old vampire Count Magnus Lee chooses Doris Lang to be his next bride. She hires a mysterious half-vampire, half-human vampire hunter known only as D to protect her from the powerful vampire lord and escape her ill-fated destiny.
The 80s Grue-Crew make their third venture into anime horror with Vampire Hunter D (1985). Previously, they covered Akira (1988) and Wicked City (1987), episodes 220 and 230. Based on Hideyuki Kikuchi’s 1983 novel illustrated by Yoshitaka Amano, Vampire Hunter D presents a distant future populated by vampire noblemen, dhampirs, vampire hunters, werewolf hunters, and a multitude of creatures, demons, and mutants, all of which have a variety of strange powers. The film is filled with beautiful imagery and draws inspiration from the lore of Hammer Films and the visuals of Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns. The world created has enough flesh to support over 40 subsequent novels, so there is plenty of content for this film. Check out the film if you haven’t already, and check out our talkabout!
At the time of this writing, Vampire Hunter D (1985) is available to stream from Shudder, AMC+, and HIDIVE, as well as multiple PPV sources. It will be available on physical media as a Blu-ray formatted disc from RLJ Entertainment, scheduled for release on August 12, 2025.
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, is The McPherson Tape (1989), aka U.F.O. Abduction, an early found footage film. The Grue Crew plan to be joined by Michael Steinberg, founder of the Found Footage Critic website.
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.
“I think you understand that I don’t want to sacrifice the best years of my life for you. I’ve taken our friend with me as a last present from you to me. Goodbye.” Really? Our friend? He was my friend before he was your friend. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they try to find a way to discuss the notorious German film NEKRomantik (1988).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 288 – NEKRomantik (1988)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: A street sweeper who cleans up after grisly accidents brings home a full corpse for him and his wife to enjoy sexually, but is dismayed to see that his wife prefers the corpse over him.
NEKRomantik (1988) is one of those movies. You know the ones. That cadre of films that are more infamous than famous in their attempts to be licentious and transgressive, while many fail or don’t even aspire to be truly artful. NEKRomantik is also a “no budget” film made on the tiniest thread of a shoestring, and it really shows. Director Jörg Buttgereit himself says he never wanted to be a director. His goal was to rebel against the German film rating system and to shock as many people as possible. Does he succeed? Rest assured, the ‘80s Grue Crew will give you their opinions. One thing is for sure. We watch ‘em so you don’t have to.
At the time of this writing, NEKRomantik (1988) is available to stream from Shudder, AMC+, and Arrow.
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 Vampire Hunter D (1985), a Japanese animated film based on Hideyuki Kikuchi’s 1983 novel. Oh yeah!
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.
“Billy, they were the biggest things I ever saw, and they had tattoos on them. You know, I may be in love. I might just go right back in there and ask her out on a date.” It’s curious how Deputy Charlie was so enthralled with the biker chick’s big feet. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they discover what kind of science fiction, horror movie stars Chuck Norris? The answer? Silent Rage (1982).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 287 – Silent Rage (1982)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: A sheriff tries to stop the killing spree of a silent maniacal murderer who, as the result of secret genetic experimentation by an unethical scientist, has the ability to self-heal.
Surprise! Chuck Norris made a science fiction/horror movie, and the ‘80s Grue Crew decided to cover it. Unfortunately, none of them are Chuck Norris fans, and one even has a bone to pick with the martial arts champion and actor. Silent Rage (1982) features Norris as the town Sheriff and a fine supporting cast: Stephen Furst (Babylon 5), Steven Keats (The Last Dinosaur), William Finley (The Phantom of the Paradise), Ron Silver (The Entity), Toni Kalem (The Sopranos), and Brian Libby (The Shawshank Redemption). To the Crew’s thinking, Stephen Furst might be the best reason to watch Silent Rage. There’s nothing really new here, but nothing really wrong either. The Crew still has fun with it, but be forewarned. This is one of those episodes where they frequently go off the rails. Oh, well.
At the time of this writing, Silent Rage (1982) is available to stream from Wicked Horror TV, Tubi, and Plex, as well as multiple PPV sources. It is also available on physical media as a Blu-ray formatted disc from Mill Creek Entertainment.
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… wait. Let me check that again… Yup. Crystal has chosen Nekromantik (1988), the film Wikipedia calls a controversial “German erotic exploitation horror film … banned in a number of countries, … due to its transgressive subject matter (including necrophilia) and audacious imagery.” Oh, goody. The things the Grue Crew watches so their Grue Believers don’t have to. Fasten your seatbelts. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.
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.
“Now, you said he touched your boobie. What else did he do?” Fixed the TV? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they view the bizarre family dynamics and bigoted police detective as portrayed in Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 286 – Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
An orphaned teenager finds himself being dominated by his aunt, who’s hell-bent on keeping him with her at all costs.
Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981) is a trip! The title, a variation on a nursery rhyme, can only refer to the film’s lead villain, Susan Tyrrell (Aunt Cheryl), who chews the scenery so magnificently, you can’t take your eyes off her. Director William Asher (I Love Lucy, Bewitched) does an unexpectedly fine job in a departure from his sitcom roots. Teen heartthrob Jimmy McNichol (Billy) and Julia Duffy (Newhart, 1983-90) make a believable teen couple despite the decade difference in their ages. Bo Svenson plays the easy-to-hate bigoted, homophobic Detective Carlson, who is countered by Britt Leach’s conscientious and tolerant police sergeant. The film also, to its credit, features a positive homosexual role model in Billy’s basketball coach (Steve Eastin). Finally, Bill Paxton makes an appearance as Billy’s nemesis and bully. The 80s Grue-Crew gives Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker high marks and wonder why this movie is not better known. Long live Susan Tyrrell!
At the time of this writing, Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981) is available to stream from Wicked Horror TV, Hoopla, Tubi, Shudder, and more, as well as multiple PPV sources. It is also available on physical media as a 2-Disc Collector’s Edition [4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray] and as Blu-ray only versions from Severin.
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 Silent Rage (1982), featuring Chuck Norris, Ron Silver, and Stephen Keats. What? You say you didn’t know Chuck Norris made a horror movie? Neither did we. In fact, IMDb classifies Silent Rage as a dark comedy/slasher horror/crime/action/horror/sci-fi/thriller. Hopefully, the 80s Grue Crew will be able to narrow that down a bit.
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.
“Don’t you see? I’m just crazy ’bout this store.” Crazy enthusiastic or crazy deranged? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they brave a grocery store in search of its Intruder (1989).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 285 – Intruder (1989)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: The overnight stock crew of a local supermarket finds themselves being stalked and slashed by a mysterious maniac.
You’d think Intruder (1989) would be better known. Scott Spiegel, Sam Raimi, and Bruce Campbell went to high school together and all are involved in this movie: Spiegel as director, Raimi and brother Ted as store employees, and Campbell in a cameo as a policeman. Combine that synergy with the effects work of Robert Kurtzman, Greg Nicotero, and Howard Berger, and one would expect this film to have a little more notoriety. Regardless, the Grue-Crew are impressed with the effects – one gag in particular – and the acting, which is spiced up by some fun cameos. All in all, Intruder is a pretty darn good 80s slasher. Enjoy our talkabout!
At the time of this writing, Intruder (1989) is available to stream from Tubi and Shudder as well as PPV from Amazon. It is also available on physical media as a Director’s Cut [Blu-ray] 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 Jeff, will be Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981), with Jimmy McNichol, Susan Tyrrell, Bo Svenson, and Julia Duffy. The 70s Grue Crew just loves a family-based horror movie.
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.
“What is this bullshit? Them man-eating dust mops got us roped up tighter than a blue-ribbon bull, and all you folks can do is stand here and play kick-the-can with some punk kid!” Barry Corbin as Harv-the-former-sheriff delivers this line and the goods! Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, Jeff Mohr, and guest Ralph Miller III – as they watch a new batch of Critters hatch just in time for Easter in Critters 2: The Main Course (1988).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 284 – Critters 2: The Main Course (1988)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Eggs of the small but voracious alien creatures called Krites are left behind on Earth and, after hatching, set their appetites on the small farm town of Grover’s Bend.
After discussing Critters (1986) in their last episode, it seemed only natural for the Grue-Crew to take on Critters 2 (1988) next. This is another fantastic film from New Line Cinema with heart, humor, and excellent effects work. Scott Grimes, Terrence Mann, and Don Keith Opper reprise their roles from Critters and Barry Corbin ably replaces M. Emmet Walsh as Harv. This time, the Grue Crew brings reinforcements in the form of Ralph Miller III, an effects artist who worked on the film for Chiodo Brothers Productions. Ralph gets into the nitty gritty details while describing some of his effects work and experiences while working on the film. The Grue-Crew loved it, and they hope you will too!
At the time of this writing, Critters 2 (1988) is available to stream from Tubi, Plex, and several pay-per-view sources. It is also available on physical media in The Critters Collection [Blu-ray], a 4-disc boxed set that includes Critters 1-4 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 Intruder (1989). Just when you thought it was safe to go to the supermarket again! You’ll see some excellent special effects work and a lot of familiar faces, including Bruce Campbell, Ted & Sam Raimi, Alvy Moore, Tom Lester, and Emil “Hold hands you lovebirds” Sitka. It’s slasher time at Decades of Horror 1980s.
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.
“Keep your shirt on, asshole.” Did he mean on “your” asshole or is he calling you an asshole? It does make a difference, you know. Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they follow the battle for survival between the tiny, very hungry, escaped, galactic prisoners and a band of mostly courageous, small-town residents and farmers in Critters (1986).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 283 – Critters (1986)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: A group of small but vicious alien creatures called Crites escape from an alien prison transport vessel and land near a small farm town on earth, pursued by two shape-shifting bounty hunters.
In this episode, Decades of Horror 1980s tackles another franchise-starting film with Critters (1986). The filmmakers swear the story was written before they knew anything about Gremlins (1984), but it’s still regarded by most as a Gremlins rip-off. Even so, the 80s Grue-Crew consider it worthy of a watch in its own right. Firstly, the special critters effects are provided by Chiodo Brothers Productions (Killer Klowns from Outer Space, 1988). Critters is also populated by a strong cast featuring Dee Wallace, M. Emmet Walsh, Scott Grimes, Billy Green Bush, Billy Zane, Ethan Phillips, and Lin Shaye to name just a few. Director Kevin Herek has put together a fun horror comedy that spawned four sequels.
At the time of this writing, Critters (1986) is available to stream from Hoopla, Tubi, and several pay-per-view sources. It is also available on physical media in The Critters Collection [Blu-ray], a 4-disc boxed set that includes Critters 1-4 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 Crystal, will be Critters 2: The Main Course (1988). It seemed like the logical picture to cover. Once again, the effects work of Chiodo Brothers Productions (Killer Clowns from Outer Space, 1988) are showcased, but this time, the director is Mick Garris. Scott Grimes, Terrance Mann, and Don Keith Opper return and are joined in the cast by Cynthia Garris, Sam Anderson, Linn Shaye, Barry Corbin, and Eddie Deezen. This should be fun!
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.
“One hundred years before this story begins, it was a time of darkness in Transylvania, a time when Dr. Abraham Van Helsing and a small band of freedom fighters conspired to rid the world of vampires and monsters and to save mankind from the forces of eternal evil. … They blew it.” Will the Monster Squad blow it, too? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Crystal Cleveland, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they follow the battle between the young monster fighters and the pseudo-Universal Monsters in The Monster Squad (1987).
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 282 – The Monster Squad (1987)
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Gruesome Magazine is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of Decades of Horror 1980s and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Synopsis: A group of 12-year-olds form a Universal Monsters fan club called The Monster Squad and have to save their hometown from Count Dracula and his monsters when they show up for real.
The Monster Squad (1987), underappreciated at its release, has, nonetheless, risen to become a fan favorite over the years. With effects provided by the Stan Winston Studio and dialogue from the pens of Shane Black and Fred Dekker, the film follows the proven template used in Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948), i.e., the copies of Universal monsters are deadly serious while the youthful monster fighters provide humor. In light of current events, it is an excellent time to revisit this horror comedy with a heart and a happy ending. And while you’re at it, take in Wolfman’s Got Nards (2018), the documentary about the film and its growth in popularity. It might bring a tear or two to your eyes.
At the time of this writing, The Monster Squad (1987) is available to stream from Hoopla, PlutoTV, Prime, and several PPV sources. It is also available on physical media as a 3-disc set that includes a 4K UHD disc, a Blu-ray disc, and Wolfman’s Got Nards (2018) Blu-ray disc, from KL Studio Classics.
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 Critters (1986), another franchise-starting film showcasing the effects work of Chiodo Brothers Productions (Killer Clowns from Outer Space, 1988) and an experienced cast featuring Dee Wallace and M. Emmet Walsh. The Grue Crew is excited about discussing this 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 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.