Retro Blood 167: Puppet Master (1989)

Join James Kline and J.H. Alison for a special Retro Blood Christmas episode as we continue our Holiday Review Month, exploring 1980s horror movies with bad kids and even badder toys! This week, we dive into the cult classic Puppet Master (1989), where killer dolls take center stage.

First, James shares an interesting (and slightly baffling) comparison of Puppet Master to the original Hellraiser. Then, the guys continue their Holiday Stout Reviews, sampling festive brews to match the season.

Next, it’s the Weekly History Segment, where they dig into what was happening in the world of pro wrestling and metal music around Puppet Master’s release on October 12, 1989. In pro wrestling, they spotlight a mega house show featuring the epic clash between Macho King Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan. For metal, Alison dives into Voivod’s groundbreaking album NothingFace and its influence on the progressive metal scene.

The episode then explores the rich history of Puppet Master, focusing on Charles Band, the mastermind behind this Full Moon Productions flagship movie. They discuss why Puppet Master was created, the origin of its iconic title, and how the straight-to-VHS release strategy made this film a massive success.

Finally, the boys dive into a full review of the movie. They break down Frank and Carissa’s bizarre sex magic antics, Alex’s puzzling psychic visions, and the unforgettable roster of killer puppets—Pinhead, Blade, and the stomach-churning Leech Woman. They also discuss Neal, the ultimate heel of the story, and the creepy yet charming atmosphere that made this film a beloved cult classic.

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Celebrate Christmas Retro Blood style with killer puppets, VHS nostalgia, and a dash of holiday cheer! 🎄🤖🔪 #RetroBlood #PuppetMaster #80sHorror #HolidayHorror #ProWrestlingHistory #MetalMusic