The British Invasion

Sitting in the Dark

This month, host Kyle Olson takes listeners on a chilling journey through the British Isles with a trio of alien invasion films. Joined by panelists Tommy Metz III, Kynan Dias, and Pete Wright, the group explores the 2012 Irish horror-comedy "Grabbers," along with "Attack the Block" and "The World's End."

The discussion begins with "Grabbers," a lesser-known gem that surprised the panel with its impressive creature effects and charming drunk-acting from its lead actress. The hosts delve into the film's unique premise: a small Irish town must get intoxicated to survive an alien attack.

As the conversation unfolds, the panel examines what makes these films distinctly British, from their focus on tight-knit communities to their reluctance to call in outside help. They note the underlying theme of existential hopelessness that permeates British comedy and how it manifests in these alien invasion narratives.

The hosts also touch on the cultural significance of pubs in British and Irish society, and how these films use them as central locations for both community gathering and monster-fighting.

With a blend of humor and insight, this episode of Sitting in the Dark offers listeners a deep dive into the world of British alien invasion films, proving that sometimes the best defense against otherworldly threats is a pint and a close-knit community.

Film Sundries

• Watch the movies discussed:
  • Grabbers: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch
  • Attack the Block: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch
  • The World’s End: Apple • Amazon • JustWatch

• (00:00) - Welcome to Sitting in the Dark
• (07:06) - Grabbers
• (17:54) - But what makes it British?
• (29:09) - Attack the Block
• (49:47) - The World's End

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