As December begins, the podcast delves into a nostalgic favorite with a focus on the 1995 creature feature, Jumanji, directed by Joe Johnston. This iconic film celebrates its 30th anniversary and is fondly remembered as a gateway horror film for many, including host Trace.
Jumanji centers around siblings Judy and Peter Shepherd, played by Kirsten Dunst and Bradley Pierce, who come across a mystical, jungle-themed board game in their new home’s attic. Their curiosity leads them to roll the dice, unleashing a series of chaotic and dangerous creatures that threaten their town. Their journey to resolve the game is aided by the character Alan Parrish, portrayed by Robin Williams, who has been trapped in this perilous world for 26 years after his own unfortunate roll. Bonnie Hunt co-stars as Sarah, who witnessed Alan’s initial entrapment, and together they must finish the game to prevent further chaos from spilling into reality.
Listeners can expect a deep dive into the film’s dark tone and chilling imagery, contrasting sharply with later adaptations. The podcast also brings attention to the practical effects versus CGI debate, highlights the challenges faced by the young actor Bradley Pierce during filming, and discusses criticisms of the film’s ending. The charm of Bebe Neuwirth’s character is noted, alongside a reminder of how unique Jumanji is compared to modern children’s entertainment.
The episode, part of a weekly series released every Wednesday, invites fans to subscribe through platforms like iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. In a festive twist, the podcast will soon explore Franck Khalfoun’s less mainstream holiday thriller P2 from 2007.
Listeners are also encouraged to support the podcast’s Patreon, offering extensive content, including discussions on various film and television episodes, alongside a festive audio commentary. This episode not only pays tribute to a classic but does so with a sense of fun and community, reminding us all of the joy these beloved films bring during the holiday season.