Episode 48: Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Rotten Tomato Score: 95%
Ever wondered what makes Wes Craven's A Nightmare on Elm Street a timeless horror classic? Tune into Screams & Streams where we break down the spine-chilling elements that earned it a 95% Rotten Tomatoes rating. We'll start with a gripping synopsis of the film, immersing ourselves in the eerie world of Springwood, Ohio, where teens are haunted by a nightmarish figure with blade fingers. Our "Sinister Sips" segment features a mouthwatering espresso martini, and you'll hear first-hand accounts from Mike, Sam, and Chad on their initial experiences with the film — from heart-pounding childhood fears to less terrifying adult revisits.
Join us as we unpack iconic and perplexing scenes, such as Freddy Krueger's unsettling proclamation, "I'm your boyfriend now," and the comedic irony of Nancy lamenting her age. We tackle Glenn's tragic struggle to stay awake and the haunting portrayal of Nancy's alcoholic mother. Of course, we don't shy away from the film's flaws, poking fun at the implausible character actions and campy special effects while acknowledging the surreal imagery and soundscapes that have solidified the film's place in horror history.
Finally, for all you trivia buffs, we dive into the fascinating behind-the-scenes details that shaped this cult favorite. Discover how a childhood bully and a pepperoni pizza inspired Freddy's design and learn about the practical effects that brought his terrifying world to life.
Sinister Sips
Espresso Martini
From: Absolut Drinks
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Kahlua
1 oz Espresso
3 Coffee Beans for Garnish
Chill a martini glass
Combine all liquid ingredients with ice in a shaker tin
Shake and pour into martini glass
Garnish with coffee beans
Plot Summary:
Teenager Nancy Thompson must uncover the dark truth concealed by her parents after she and her friends become targets of the spirit of a serial killer with a bladed glove in their dreams, in which if they die, it kills them in real life. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
Sam and Mike gave the film an 8. Due to some flaws in the effects, Chad gave it a 7. We placed the film at 7.5 on the Watchability Scale.
Links
Behind the Scenes (Screen Rant)
Trivia (TV Tropes.com)
Freddy Krueger Facts (Screen Rant)
15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Nightmare on Elm Street (Mental Floss)