Episode 35: Emmett Alston’s New Year’s Evil (1980)
Rotten Tomato Score: 25%
Ever wondered what happens when a punk rock icon becomes the centerpiece of a murderously bad New Year's countdown? Well, strap in for a riotous ride with us as we dissect the slasher cult classic "New Year's Evil" with a Rotten Tomatoes score that's begging for a second opinion. From the twisted timeline to the killer's zany cross-country rampage, we're peeling back the layers of this cinematic onion with a mix of belly laughs and bewilderment at the hilariously dated antics on display.
Join the conversation as we tear into horror film tropes like they're going out of style, get perplexed by the logistics of the killer's improbable time zone-hopping murder spree, and raise our eyebrows at the sheer audacity of those cheesy lines we just can't seem to shake. It's a deep dive into the role of mental illness in the genre, the eyebrow-raising portrayal of law enforcement, and the cinematic sins that make you want to scream, "Cut! Can we try that again?" Plus, a nod to the standout track suit that steals the show in the final act - because who doesn't love a killer in leisurewear?
Don't just listen, be a part of the mayhem! We're beckoning you over to Instagram (@ScreamStreamPod) to chime in with your thoughts. And don't forget to swing by screamsandstreams.com for even more episode extras. It's all about the screams, streams, and the occasional laugh at the absurd - because what's a horror movie without a few gaffes and a fake mustache or two, right?
Plot Summary:
During a New Year's Eve celebration, a Los Angeles disc jockey receives a phone call saying that when New Year's strikes in each time zone, someone will be murdered - and she will be the last one. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
We both gave the film a 2 on the Watchability Scale.