Nat, Cody, and Robert are joined by Angela Fabbrini to take a look at four movies from the 80s that are both interesting to discuss and highlight Disney’s identity crisis in the post-Walt era with THE WATCHER IN THE WOODS, SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES, THE BLACK CAULDRON, and RETURN TO OZ.
First up is 1981’s THE WATCHER IN THE WOODS. Perhaps building off the relative success of Disney’s Witch Mountain movies and the genuine success of THE AMITYVILLE HORROR, we have a spooky film about the past haunting the present, with a science fiction twist.
Disney sold it as a “masterpiece of suspense”, not daring to use the dreaded H word. But, that’s how the movie functions best. Gateway Horror at best, but something of a favorite with Gen X. We debate the film. Is one trope too tired to still exist? And is a solar eclipse truly the opposite of a lunar eclipse? And how about the alternate ending? Important questions that need answering.
Next, we jump to 1983 and everyone’s favorite of the bunch, SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES. Based on Ray Bradbury’s classic novel, and adapted by Bradbury himself with Jack Clayton directing, this is truly an ambitious adaptation.
The novel is a clear precursor to Stephen King’s work on IT and NEEDFUL THINGS and the movie doesn’t shy away from the horror elements. Even if Disney never is any braver than marketing it as a “Dark Fantasy.” But there’s a lot to like here from James Horner’s score, the evocative production design, a sinister early performance from Jonathan Pryce, and maybe especially a terrific turn by Jason Robards. We discuss the book too and how the movie may or may not capture its dark majesty.
We further jump ahead to 1985 and Disney’s usual strength, feature animation, with THE BLACK CAULDRON. THE BLACK CAULDRON is generally regarded as one of Disney’s weaker entries, albeit there’s a cult following. Based on The Chronicles of Prydain with a heavy emphasis on Welsh mythology, THE BLACK CAULDRON had all the ingredients to be a hit. So, what went wrong, if anything?
Finally, when all else fails, how could you go wrong with a big budget sequel to the adventures of Dorothy Gales and a RETURN TO OZ? Fondly remembered by Gen X as a source of childhood nightmare fuel, we have quite a discussion about how truly disturbing parts of the film are. And admire a good amount of the ambition.
No need to take an impromptu trip to the Carnival to listen to this episode. You can give us a play below or Download the episode. Also, feel free to let us know what you think by commenting below or Email Us at skiespocast@gmail.com as we appreciate feedback.
Time tracks:
THE WATCHER IN THE WOODS Discussion: 0:00
SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES Discussion 30:58
THE BLACK CAULDRON Discussion 54:23
RETURN TO OZ Discussion: 1:14:08
Later this month, we return to discuss LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (1986). We hope you’ll join us.
