Ep. 67: Charles E. Sellier Jr.'s "Silent Night, Deadly Night" (1984)

What happens when a seemingly innocent holiday icon becomes the stuff of nightmares? Join Chad, Sam, and Mike as they unravel the controversy and chaos of "Silent Night, Deadly Night," the 1984 horror film that shocked audiences and outraged parents. With a Rotten Tomatoes rating of just 46%, this film stirred up quite the storm upon its release. We explore the disturbing themes, overly sexualized scenes, and how these elements overshadow what could have been a classic horror flick. Hear our first impressions and critiques, as we dissect why this film's unsettling nature left us more uncomfortable than spooked.

Step back in time with us to the glorious era of 80s horror tropes! We take a nostalgic look at recurring characters and absurd plot elements that defined the decade's horror films. From the super-strong kid trope embodied by Billy to the lucid catatonic patient and keyhole-peeping scenes, our lively discussion is filled with laughter and speculation. What if Grandpa had been the antagonist, turning the story on its head? Join our whimsical brainstorming session on missed opportunities and whimsical plot twists that could have taken the film in unexpected directions.

Finally, we tackle the fascinating controversy that surrounded "Silent Night, Deadly Night." Discover how the film's initial backlash was cleverly turned into an advantage, leading to its re-release and cult status. We discuss the criticism from renowned reviewers like Siskel and Ebert, delve into behind-the-scenes trivia, and uncover the director's unease with the horror genre. With creative death scenes and its impact on pop culture, this episode invites listeners to consider the film's controversial legacy and its place in the horror genre. Get ready for a rollercoaster of critiques, laughs, and a nostalgic journey through one of the most talked-about horror films of the 80s.

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