Ep. 85: Manny Coto's "Dr. Giggles" (1992)

Take two aspirin and prepare for a lethal dose of 90s medical horror as we dissect "Dr. Giggles," the 1992 cult slasher that transforms everyday medical tools into weapons of destruction. Larry Drake delivers a maniacal performance as the titular villain whose high-pitched laugh and cringe-worthy puns accompany each of his uniquely gruesome kills.

With an impressive body count of 17 victims, Dr. Giggles dispatches his patients using oversized tongue depressors, thermometers through eye sockets, and even a giant band-aid for suffocation. Despite scoring a meager 23% on Rotten Tomatoes, this film has developed a devoted following among fans who appreciate its practical gore effects and unintentionally humorous moments. We explore how the original concept for a serious serial killer story was transformed into the campy horror comedy we see today, much to director Manny Cotto's dismay.

Behind-the-scenes trivia reveals fascinating production choices, like the custom-built house that was constructed solely to be blown up in the finale and the oversized props created for unique POV shots. We also uncover casting what-ifs, including Jennifer Aniston and Ashley Judd's auditions for the female lead and Ted Danson being considered for Dr. Giggles himself.

Whether you view this film as a guilty pleasure or an eye-rolling exercise in 90s horror excess depends on your tolerance for medical puns and absurd plot holes. But one thing's certain – you'll never look at a routine check-up the same way again. The doctor is in... sane!

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