EP 13: CRITTERS 3 ('91) vs. *BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED ('87)
“Apartment Fires Are More Common Than You Think!”
CRITTERS 3 (1991) marks Leonardo DiCaprio's feature debut, and gives us the last great Critters film to date! Up against it is the forgotten Mick Garris penned *batteries not included (1987), which follows alien robots as they seek to procreate in a dilapidated apartment building (really, it's cute!) It's an apartment-hating arsonist’s dream this week on CULT and CLASSIC Podcast!
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Host: Nate Wyckoff
Panelists: Jeff Tucker & Amanda Longley
More on CRITTERS 3 (1991):
In the third installment of the franchise, "Critters 3" takes us back to the small rural town of Grovers Bend, known for its previous encounters with the mischievous extraterrestrial creatures. Directed by Kristine Peterson, the film follows the latest attack of the carnivorous critters, who have now infiltrated an apartment building, turning it into their hunting ground.
The story revolves around the main character, Annie (played by Aimee Brooks), a young girl visiting her father who manages the apartment building. Annie becomes the unlikely heroine when she discovers the presence of the deadly critters' eggs within the building. With the help of a group of tenants, including the spirited Josh (played by Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his early roles), they must fight to prevent the critters from hatching and causing chaos.
"Critters 3" effectively combines elements of horror and comedy to deliver an entertaining and suspenseful experience. The film maintains the franchise's signature blend of dark humor and gruesome violence, laced with witty one-liners. It also introduces a more urban setting, contrasting with the previous two films' rural backdrop, injecting a fresh dynamic into the series.
As Annie and her unlikely allies devise creative ways to outsmart the relentless critters, the tension escalates, leading to a climactic showdown. With the help of impressive practical effects and puppetry, the critters' menacing presence is brought to life, adding to the film's charm and nostalgia.
Overall, "Critters 3" continues to deliver on the beloved elements of the franchise, introducing new characters and settings while providing the exciting and entertaining blend of horror and humor that fans have come to expect from the series.
More on *batteries not included (1987):
“*batteries not included" is a heartwarming science fiction film released in 1987, directed by Matthew Robbins. Set in a dilapidated apartment building in New York City, the movie follows the struggling tenants as they face eviction due to a heartless property developer who wants to demolish the building. However, the tenants' lives take an unexpected turn when a group of small, extraterrestrial, robotic living spaceships, known as "Fix-Its," come to their aid.
The Fix-Its display incredible abilities to repair and rejuvenate both the building and the lives of its inhabitants. They befriend the tenants, providing unwavering support in their times of need. As the residents gradually learn to communicate with the Fix-Its and understand their intentions, they realize that these tiny beings offer more than just physical assistance. The story unfolds with characters like Frank and Faye Riley, the elderly couple whose diner is in danger of closing, as well as Mason Baylor, an artist struggling with creative blockage.
Throughout the film, "Batteries Not Included" explores themes of compassion, resilience, and the power of community. It delves into the tenants' relationships, their hopes, and their sense of belonging. The Fix-Its not only bridge the gap between humanity and the unknown, but they also teach the residents the importance of embracing change, finding strength in unity, and restoring their faith in the future. With its endearing characters, clever storytelling, and awe-inspiring visual effects, the movie offers an enchanting tale that reminds us of the invaluable connections we make in our lives, regardless of where, or whom, they come from.