Retro Blood 166: The Pit (1981)
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Join James Kline and J.H. Alison as Retro Blood continues its Holiday Review Month, diving into 1980s horror movies featuring bad kids and even badder toys! This week, the boys tackle the bizarre movie The Pit (1981)—a movie packed with creepy teddy bears, awkward babysitters, and a pit full of hungry monsters.
The episode begins with James explaining why he thought this movie was a total misfire, while J.H. shares his own thoughts on its strange charm. Next, the guys continue their Holiday Stout Beer Review, diving into their latest festive picks.
In the Weekly History Segment, they explore what was happening in the worlds of metal and pro wrestling around The Pit’s release dates. For metal, they use the Canadian release date of October 23, 1981, to discuss Saxon’s legendary album Denim and Leather. They also talk about Saxon’s October 25, 1981, concert, featuring performances of new tracks like “Midnight Rider” and “Never Surrender.” On the wrestling side, they shift to the U.S. release date of June 4, 1983, spotlighting WCCW and a main event match for the vacant Texas Heavyweight Title between David Von Erich and Jimmy Garvin.
The boys then delve into the production history of The Pit, discussing writer Ian A. Stuart’s original story, how director Lew Lehman made significant (and strange) plot changes, and a peculiar story involving Lehman’s wife and daughter on set. They also chat about the film’s Canadian budget, its origins in the novel Teddy, and how the character of Jamie (aka Sammy Snyders) transitioned from disco dancing to unsettlingly creepy kid behavior.
Finally, it’s time for the full breakdown! They explore Jamie’s cringeworthy attempts to win over his babysitter, her complete incompetence as both a caretaker and therapist, and the many missed opportunities with the creepy teddy bear. They also highlight the film’s odd look, bizarre tone, the underwhelming "Tra-la-logs" in the pit, and the hilariously wooden acting by characters like Margret.
Join us for a dive into one of the weirdest 80s horror films this holiday season—because nothing says festive cheer like bad acting, awkward teen vibes, and a pit full of monsters! 🎄🧸👹 #RetroBlood #HolidayHorror #ThePit1981 #80sHorror #ProWrestlingHistory #MetalMusic
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