Retro Blood

Retro Blood 162: Cannibal Apocalypse / Cannibals in the Streets (1980)

James Kline and J.H. Alison are back with another wild entry for Retro Blood’s “Human Meat: What’s for Dinner?” month, diving into the gritty chaos of Cannibal Apocalypse (also known as Cannibals in the Streets). This week, join the boys as they break down John Saxon’s unforgettable (and somewhat regret-filled) performance as Norman Hopper, from his rabid cannibal instincts to his unconventional biting down low.
In this week’s history segment, we revisit the metal and pro wrestling landscape around August 4, 1980. In metal, we dig into Judas Priest’s skyrocketing popularity on their current tour, solidifying them as heavyweights in the burgeoning heavy metal scene. For pro wrestling, we cover the heated rivalry between Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko, culminating in their legendary cage match on this very night!
Then, the boys go behind the scenes of Cannibal Apocalypse, discussing the various titles, the Atlanta filming location, and director Antonio Margheriti’s knack for recycling footage. Plus, they explore John Saxon’s mixed feelings about the film and how he made the role his own.
Finally, we launch into a full review featuring Saxon shirtless and chomping down, rabid cannibal attacks, the ever-tense Lt. Hill, and the “joy trail” scene that has to be heard to be believed.
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Streaming now on all platforms! 🩸🍽️ #RetroBlood #CannibalApocalypse #HumanMeatMonth #JohnSaxon #HeavyMetalHistory #ProWrestlingCageMatch
 

Retro Blood 161: Eatin Alive! (1980)

James Kline and J.H. Alison continue Retro Blood’s “Human Meat: What’s for Dinner?” month with a deep dive into Eaten Alive!—a gritty 1980 cannibal cult classic where snake venom and wild rituals are just the beginning. Buckle up for this intense journey into the depths of jungle cult paradise!
The boys kick things off with quick takes on the movie’s raw and relentless scenes of snake killings and jungle carnage. In this week’s history segment, we explore what was happening in the world of metal and pro wrestling around the film’s release on March 20, 1980. We cover Bob Backlund’s exhibition match against Jose Estrada and dive into Def Leppard’s debut album On Through the Night, a powerful entry that kicked off their rise in the metal scene.
Then, we break down the production backstory of Eaten Alive!, from its extensive use of stock footage to its death metal–esque alternate titles and casting choices, including appearances by adult film actors. And then, it’s time for the full film review: Sheila’s shocking transformation in New York, the ritualistic brainwashing in the jungle via snake blood, the gruesome fate of Dina, and the unsettling presence of the cannibal cult.
Streaming now on all platforms! 🍖🩸 #RetroBlood #EatenAlive #HumanMeatMonth #CannibalHorror #ProWrestlingHistory #DefLeppard

Retro Blood 160: Cannibal Ferox (1981)

Join James Kline and J.H. Alison as Retro Blood kicks off “Human Meat: What’s for Dinner?” month with the 1981 shocker Cannibal Ferox! In this episode, we dive into the lurid world of 1980s cannibal horror films and lay out the monthly lineup, giving you a few tasty spoilers along the way. The guys explore the plot of Cannibal Ferox, where a group of clueless city folks heads into the Amazon jungle in search of drugs, only to find themselves in a twisted fight for survival.
In the weekly history segment, we look at the world of pro wrestling and metal music on the movie’s release date, April 24, 1981. For wrestling, we go to St. Louis to cover a show headlined by Ric Flair and Harley Race in an intense two-out-of-three falls match. On the metal side, we dive into The Cure's early work and the release of their haunting album Faith, as we set the stage with music that defined the darker side of the early ’80s.
We also dig into the backstory and production of Cannibal Ferox, exploring the grim fascination with jungle horror films and the genre’s sensational, death metal–esque alternate titles. Then, it’s time for a full breakdown of the film: from Mike’s journey from jerk to justice, Gloria’s questionable ambitions of writing a book on cannibals, Pat’s desperate jungle “shower” scene, and Rudy’s escape attempts—even while bloodthirsty fish circle his bloody wound!
Prepare for plenty of grim, jungle-based carnage—streaming now on all platforms! 🎧 #RetroBlood #CannibalFerox #HumanMeatMonth #CannibalHorror #ProWrestlingHistory #TheCure
 

Lights Out Podcast: Annual Battle of Pro Wrestling Halloween Havocs

This year, hosts James Cline and J.H. Alison throw down in an epic clash of Halloween Havocs! In one corner, Alsion defends the chaotic WCW Halloween Havoc 2000, packed with wild matches and infamous moments. And in the other corner, James backs the explosive NXT Halloween Havoc 2023, where the new generation of stars brought all the thrills and chills.
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Who will reign supreme in this no-rules showdown? Which Halloween Havoc will survive the ultimate test? Tune in to find out—if you dare! 🎃💀 #LightsOutPodcast #HalloweenHavoc #WCW2000 #NXT2023 #ProWrestling #BattleRoyale
 

Retro Blood Halloween special 159: Trick or Treat (1986)

Join James Kline and J.H. Alison for Retro Blood’s special 2024 Halloween episode as they rock into the spooky season with Trick or Treat (1986), a heavy-metal horror classic full of
supernatural vengeance, screaming guitars, and a die-hard metal fan named Eddie—no, not that Eddie from Stranger Things!
In this episode, the hosts kick things off with a dive into the world of high school bullying, comparing the experiences of being an outsider in the ‘80s versus the ‘90s. Alison shares personal stories, adding depth to Eddie’s journey as a metal-loving “Ragman” facing relentless torment from the “dude-bros” of his high school. Together, they explore how Trick or Treat captures the raw spirit of metalheads who turned to music as a refuge and outlet, especially when society branded them as outcasts. The Retro Blood history segment explores October 24, 1986, when Trick or Treat hit the scene. In pro wrestling, they recount the legendary angle where Dusty Rhodes finds an unexpected ally in a newly babyfaced Nikita Koloff—an unforgettable storyline that resonated with audiences. For metal, it’s all about Fastway, the band behind Trick or Treat's soundtrack. The hosts delve into how Fastway’s fiery frontman would later lead Flogging Molly, adding an extra layer of rock lore to the mix. The production breakdown reveals fascinating trivia, including the film’s original title ideas and the fact that Trick or Treat was director Charles Martin Smith’s only horror film. James and Alison discuss the casting process, including who was considered for the role of Eddie before Marc Price took on the iconic character of “Ragman.” Finally, it’s time to dive into the full movie review. The hosts recount Eddie’s obsession with metal legend Sammi Curr and the horror that ensues when Eddie’s deceased idol is resurrected for vengeance through a cursed record. They laugh at the antics of the preppy bullies who despise Eddie’s metal fandom, speculating on what mainstream music they’d actually listen to. They also delve into the film’s electrifying—and hilarious—special effects, from green clouds to bizarre makeout scenes, and of course, Sammi Curr’s over-the-top supernatural revenge on Eddie’s tormentors. With tons of Halloween spirit, metal nostalgia, and a dash of dark comedy, this episode celebrates the wild ride of Trick or Treat. Tune in for an ‘80s horror rock spectacle that’s sure to crank up your Halloween vibes! Now streaming on all platforms. #RetroBlood
#TrickOrTreat1986 #HeavyMetalHorror #Ragman #Fastway #HalloweenEpisode #80sHorror #DustyRhodes #NikitaKoloff #ProWrestling #HalloweenVibes

Retro Blood 158: Amityville 4: The Evil Escapes

James Kline and J.H. Alison wrap up the Amityville Horror series of the 1980s with Amityville Horror 4: The Evil Escapes—a made-for-TV movie that truly tests their commitment to the haunted franchise. This week, they’re bringing the laughs and brutal honesty as they tackle this bizarre, low-energy entry with a possessed lamp as the film’s primary villain. 🕯️👻
The boys kick things off with a look back at the absurdity of staying in on a Friday night to catch a tame made-for-TV horror flick like The Evil Escapes. They share their thoughts on the strange premise: evil doesn’t stay in the Amityville house this time but follows a garish lamp purchased at a yard sale by an unsuspecting grandmother. That’s right—a killer lamp is terrorizing a family. They also muse on how Amityville 4 tried to reignite the horror of the original house but stumbled with a cast of bland characters and a plot that drags more than it scares.
As always, the Retro Blood team dives into history with a look at what was happening in pro wrestling and metal around the release date, May 12, 1989. In pro wrestling, they break down the showdown at WrestleWar ’89, particularly the battle between Sting and Iron Sheik, a clash that brought energy to the wrestling world despite the Sheik’s advanced years in the ring. In the metal corner, the boys pay tribute to Morbid Angel and their influential album Altars of Madness. They discuss how this album helped shape the death metal genre and the legendary impact Morbid Angel had on metal’s darker side.
On the production side, James and J.H. discuss the unusual circumstances that led to this film being made for television, stepping away from theatrical releases and diving into the lower stakes of TV horror. They chat about why this made-for-TV approach allowed for looser, more experimental horror projects (and sometimes more laughable ones) while still attempting to cash in on the Amityville name.
Then it’s on to the full review, where they pull no punches. From grandma’s haunted yard-sale finds to the cursed lamp that somehow manages to kill, the hosts take listeners through every campy twist and turn. They break down the weird priest who fails to actually help, the agonizingly boring family dynamics, and—of course—the ultimate showdown with not one, but three sinister lamp confrontations. 🕯️🕯️🕯️
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If you’re ready for a hilarious takedown of a haunted lamp and some spooky history along the way, tune in for this week’s Retro Blood and cap off Halloween month with a laugh. Now streaming on all platforms! 🎧 #RetroBlood #Amityville4 #EvilLamp #MadeForTVHorror #WrestleWar89 #MorbidAngel #AltarsOfMadness #HorrorPodcast #HalloweenMonth

Retro Blood 157: Amityville 3D (1983)

 
James Kline and J.H. Alison are back for the next installment of Retro Blood’s Halloween month, continuing their journey through the infamous Amityville films of the 1980s. This week, things get three-dimensional as they dive into Amityville Horror 3D (1983). 🎃🕶️
Get ready for all things 3D—3D flies, 3D wind, 3D poles, 3D fire, and a 3D purple misty cloud that haunts the screen! Oh, and don’t forget, the girl from Full House makes an appearance! The boys kick off with a lively discussion about the 3D movie craze that hit hard in the early 80s. They break down why 1983 was a major year for the format, comparing it to other 3D horror releases like Jaws 3D and Friday the 13th Part III.
James and J.H. then dig into the inspiration behind the film’s lead character, John Baxter, who is loosely based on real-life paranormal investigator and book author Stephen Kaplan. They explore how Kaplan’s skepticism about the Amityville hauntings may have influenced the more grounded tone of Baxter’s character.
In this week's history segment, the hosts dive into what was happening in pro wrestling and metal music around the movie's release date, November 18, 1983. They break down the Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards for 1983, talking about the year’s top stars and feuds. In the metal corner, they discuss the release of Ozzy Osbourne's iconic Bark at the Moon album and its significance in the evolution of Osbourne's solo career, particularly following the tragic death of guitarist Randy Rhoads.
The production history of Amityville 3D is filled with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, and James and J.H. dive deep into them. They discuss the legal drama involving the Lutz family and producer Dino De Laurentiis, AKA “Double D,” over the rights to the Amityville name. They also touch on the film’s co-production between the U.S. and Mexico, a move that added a unique international flavor to the project. The lawsuit between the Lutz family and the producers created a buzz, with the Lutzes still trying to maintain control over their infamous story while the filmmakers took the haunting in a different direction.
Then, it’s time for the full review of Amityville 3D. The hosts break down key scenes, including John’s skepticism about the paranormal, Melissa’s (played by Lori Loughlin) frantic freakouts, and her jaw-dropping death sequence. They also talk about the haunting return of Susan as a ghost, how the character Nancy had one simple job (keeping her daughter out of the cursed house), and her ultimate failure. And of course, they can’t help but laugh over the infamous 3D FLY scenes—proof that sometimes special effects really do bug you. 🪰👻
Expect plenty of laughs, deep-dive production talk, and lots of 3D breakdowns as James and J.H. guide you through the wacky, spooky world of Amityville Horror 3D. Tune in for the chills and thrills as Retro Blood continues its Halloween marathon with style!
Now streaming on all platforms! 🎧 #RetroBlood #Amityville3D #HalloweenMonth #80sHorror #3DMovies #ProWrestling #BarkAtTheMoon #HauntedHouse #LoriLoughlin #HorrorPodcast

Retro Blood 156 Amityville 2: The Possession

Join James Kline and J.H. Alison as Retro Blood kicks off its annual Halloween month with a deep dive into the 1980s Amityville movie series, starting with the chilling Amityville Horror II: The Possession. This episode explores the twisted and disturbing tale of possession, family drama, and demonic influence in one of horror's most infamous homes. 👻🏚️
The boys start with a provocative discussion on Sonny Montelli’s disturbing relationship with his sister and how the film leans into taboo themes, along with the legal implications of using demonic possession as a defense in court. This leads into their personal travels, which takes an interesting turn as they relate real-world stories to the unsettling content of the movie.
One key point of discussion is how Amityville II is more of a demonic possession story than a typical haunted house film, shifting the focus away from the house itself and diving into the psychological and supernatural torment of Sonny and his family. The hosts talk about how this film veers into more graphic, unsettling territory compared to its predecessor.
In the weekly history segment, the hosts turn back the clock to September 4, 1982, to see what was happening in the worlds of pro wrestling and metal music. James breaks down a Mid-South Wrestling show from September 5, 1982, featuring a hard-hitting match with Mr. Wrestling II and the ever-popular Hacksaw Jim Duggan. On the music side, they talk about the band Accept and their legendary album Restless and Wild, which was released just a few weeks after the film, marking a crucial moment in the development of speed metal and heavy metal.
Then, the conversation shifts back to Amityville Horror II with some production notes. Directed by Damiano Damiani, the film serves as a prequel to the original Amityville Horror, loosely based on the real-life DeFeo murders. James and J.H. discuss the director’s decision to lean into the possession angle, the Catholic imagery, and how the film focuses more on the demonic influence rather than the house itself being haunted. They touch on the special effects and some of the more shocking moments, including the film’s gruesome finale.
As always, the hosts break down the film's characters in detail—from the abusive, angry father who lashes out at the smallest things, to Sonny’s horrifying descent into madness and lust, driven by a demonic force. They also highlight the priest who, despite his best efforts, can’t seem to stop the evil from spreading, and how his attempts to save the family only seem to make things worse. Expect plenty of commentary on the demon's influence, the possessed house, and the disturbing family dynamics that make Amityville II one of the darker entries in the series.
Tune in for a terrifying, unfiltered conversation as Retro Blood takes you through this cult classic in their signature style—mixing horror, wrestling, and metal music with plenty of insights and laughs along the way. 🎃💀
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🎧 #RetroBlood #AmityvilleHorrorII #HalloweenMonth #DemonicPossession #80sHorror #ProWrestling #Accept #RestlessAndWild #HauntedHouse #HorrorPodcast

Lights Out Halloween Special: The Amityville Horror

Lights Out Halloween Special: The Amityville Horror
In this special episode of Lights Out, hosts James Kline and J.H. Alison leave the comfort of the 80s to dive into the chilling tale of one of the most infamous haunted houses in American history—The Amityville Horror. Kicking off their 2024 Halloween month, the hosts explore the terrifying legend from every angle, with an unsanctioned, unfiltered conversation about the dark history, the media frenzy, and the supernatural terror that has surrounded this story for decades. 🏚️👻
The boys start by breaking down the true story behind the horror—discussing the brutal DeFeo family murders that took place on November 13, 1974, when Ronald DeFeo Jr. slaughtered his parents and siblings in their home on Ocean Avenue. They explore the eerie details of the case and how the house’s tragic past set the stage for what would become one of the most famous hauntings in modern history. 🩸🔪
Next, they dive into Jay Anson's 1977 book The Amityville Horror, the chilling "non-fiction" account of the Lutz family's terrifying ordeal after they moved into the house. Was it a legitimate paranormal experience, or an elaborate hoax designed to profit off a real-life tragedy? James and J.H. discuss the skepticism and belief surrounding the story, as well as the key moments that gripped readers.
Then, the conversation shifts to the 1979 movie adaptation, starring James Brolin and Margot Kidder. The hosts review the film’s ability to capture the fear and paranoia from the book, as well as its impact on the horror genre. They delve into the iconic moments—the flies, the red room, the disembodied voice yelling "Get out!"—and how The Amityville Horror became a cultural phenomenon that influenced countless haunted house films to come. 🎥👁️
Expect deep discussions about the lasting influence of the Amityville Horror franchise, its sequels, remakes, and the numerous paranormal investigators who've tried to unravel the mystery of this cursed house. James and J.H. don’t shy away from the controversy, the hoaxes, and the debates that still surround this infamous haunting.
Get ready for a spine-tingling episode full of true crime, supernatural horrors, and the raw energy that only Lights Out can bring. Tune in, if you dare, as they kick off the Halloween season with the terrifying story of The Amityville Horror. 🎃👹
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Now streaming on all platforms! #LightsOutPodcast #TheAmityvilleHorror #TrueCrime #HalloweenSpecial #HauntedHouse #HorrorPodcast #JayAnson #HauntedHistory #Halloween2024
 

Retro Blood 155: Cruising (1980)

Join James Kline and J.H. Alison as they wrap up their month-long exploration of 1980s New York horror with a deep dive into William Friedkin's controversial thriller, Cruising (1980). This unsettling film, starring Al Pacino, explores the underground world of the leather scene and a serial killer targeting gay men. The hosts begin with a discussion on the film's striking visual style, its provocative message, and the infamous "hanky code" that played a key role in the culture and storyline. 🌈🔪
As always, the episode features the Oktoberfest Beer of the Week review, adding some seasonal flavor to the conversation. 🍻
In this week’s history segment, the boys take a look at what was happening in the world of pro wrestling and metal music around Cruising’s release date, February 15, 1980. On the wrestling front, they break down the iconic Star Wars ‘80 match between Dusty Rhodes and Harley Race. Then, in metal news, two monumental events are discussed: Bon Scott’s tragic death from alcohol poisoning, which shook the world just as AC/DC began work on Back In Black, and the release of Iron Maiden’s single Running Free, which marked the first appearance of the legendary Eddie on their cover art. 🤘
The episode then dives into the intense production history behind Cruising. The boys discuss the controversial book by Gerald Walker that inspired the film, William Friedkin's bold casting of Al Pacino, and the grueling production process, including on-location shooting in the heart of New York’s gay leather bars. They also talk about the immense backlash the film received from LGBTQ+ groups, the on-set protests, and the disturbing hate crimes that were linked to the movie’s release. 🏳️‍🌈📽️
Finally, James and J.H. delve into the film’s storyline, breaking down Al Pacino's character, Steve Burns, as he goes undercover in the world of underground kink to catch a killer. They also take a closer look at the notorious "hanky code" and how it was woven into the plot, offering insight into this misunderstood subculture of the time.
Prepare for an intense, thought-provoking episode full of horror, social commentary, and the usual mix of wrestling and metal that you’ve come to expect from Retro Blood.
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Streaming now on all platforms! 🎧 #RetroBlood #Cruising1980 #WilliamFriedkin #AlPacino #OktoberfestBeer #HorrorPodcast #80sHorror #ProWrestling #ACDC #BonScott #IronMaiden