Horror film critic Rachel is not running solo on this episode of the film podcast The Scream Test, she is joined by Steve (a new guest!) as well as her podcast gang. Beloved Val is in her dog igloo, for fans of canines in their movie review shows! The topic of this show is the Poltergeist movies, so fans of 80's Slasher films will be in their element.

Ready to delve into the world of suburban scares and spectral shenanigans? Join us on this episode of The Scream Test as we delve into the iconic Poltergeist film series!

From director Tobe Hooper and producer Steven Spielberg comes a chilling tale that's not just about bumps in the night – it's about the terrifying hold the supernatural can have on a seemingly ordinary family. We'll be revisiting the Freeling family's ordeal as their California home becomes a hotbed of paranormal activity, with TVs spewing static, disembodied voices echoing through the halls, and a swimming pool transformed into a perilous gateway to the afterlife.

We'll be dissecting what makes the Poltergeist movies such enduring classics:

• The relatable characters: The Freelings aren't your typical horror movie family. They're loving, flawed, and utterly believable. We'll explore how their struggles to keep their home and family safe resonate with audiences.
• The groundbreaking special effects: From the iconic scene of the Freeling's kitchen being ravaged by a rogue poltergeist to the unforgettable image of little Carol Anne disappearing into the static-filled television, the special effects in Poltergeist were revolutionary for their time. We'll discuss how they continue to impress even today.
• The underlying themes: Poltergeist is more than just a ghost story. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of progress and the unseen costs of suburban convenience. We'll be diving into the film's social commentary and how it reflects the anxieties of the era.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this episode of The Scream Test promises a chilling good time. Join us as we turn up the volume on the iconic theme song, crank up the scares, and ask the age-old question: They're here.... Are you scared?

So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a hauntingly good listen!

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