Teal is back from his time off, and he's brought with him two hidden gems: Messiah of Evil and Targets. Messiah of Evil is a 1973 horror film (released in 1974) by co-director's Willard Huyck and Gloria Katz, the two writers behind American Graffiti. This low budget film features loads of creepy atmosphere, aided by some brilliant production design, courtesy of Jack Fisk. It's currently playing as part of the Criterion Channel's Synth Score series.
Second up is the debut film from director Peter Bogdanovich, Targets (1968). This film is part of the Criterion Collection, and while it isn't currently playing on their channel, it pops up on it from time-to-time. Jim and Teal caught up with this movie which is far more elevated than any movie Roger Corman produced has a right to be. Featuring an unnerving performance from Tim O'Kelly, and a great supporting role by horror legend Boris Karloff, Targets is an exercise in how to make a film great, even on a shoestring budget.
Along the way, Jim and Teal discuss the merits of Longlegs, and Jim rants about a recent crop of big-budget stinkers he's had the displeasure of watching.
Lots to enjoy this week, so dig in!
