• The British Invasion

  • Jun 29 2024
  • Length: 1 hr and 27 mins
  • Podcast

  • Summary

  • This month, host Kyle Olson takes listeners on a chilling journey through the British Isles with a trio of alien invasion films. Joined by panelists Tommy Metz III, Kynan Dias, and Pete Wright, the group explores the 2012 Irish horror-comedy "Grabbers," along with "Attack the Block" and "The World's End."

    The discussion begins with "Grabbers," a lesser-known gem that surprised the panel with its impressive creature effects and charming drunk-acting from its lead actress. The hosts delve into the film's unique premise: a small Irish town must get intoxicated to survive an alien attack.

    As the conversation unfolds, the panel examines what makes these films distinctly British, from their focus on tight-knit communities to their reluctance to call in outside help. They note the underlying theme of existential hopelessness that permeates British comedy and how it manifests in these alien invasion narratives.

    The hosts also touch on the cultural significance of pubs in British and Irish society, and how these films use them as central locations for both community gathering and monster-fighting.

    With a blend of humor and insight, this episode of Sitting in the Dark offers listeners a deep dive into the world of British alien invasion films, proving that sometimes the best defense against otherworldly threats is a pint and a close-knit community.


    Film Sundries

    • Watch the movies discussed:
      • Grabbers: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch
      • Attack the Block: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch
      • The World’s End: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch
    • (00:00) - Welcome to Sitting in the Dark
    • (06:55) - Grabbers
    • (17:44) - But what makes it British?
    • (28:59) - Attack the Block
    • (49:37) - The World's End

    Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.

    Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!

    Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Pete
    • Kyle
    • Tommy
    • Kynan

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    Show More Show Less

What listeners say about The British Invasion

Average Customer Ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.

In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.