Verbal Diorama - Episode 96 - The Monster Squad - Verbal Diorama

Episode 96

The Monster Squad

Published on: 27th May, 2021

In 1987, Fred Dekker made a little movie that did so badly it was pulled from US theatres after just two weeks....

Like all cult classics though, The Monster Squad showed it had nards, and only grew in audiences estimations through VHS and TV screenings, through to DVD and Blu-ray, and to sold-out fan screenings and events.

While attempts have been made to reboot The Monster Squad, and in the shadow of Universal's attempt at a Dark Universe, something like The Monster Squad would be the perfect showcase for all their classic cinematic monsters..... but let's not talk about the fact they wanted nothing to do with this movie, nor were they interested in resurrecting their classic monsters in the late '80s. Times sure do change.

What doesn't is a fresh, funny script by Fred Dekker and Shane Black (aka Black and Dekker!), endearing child actors, incredible make-up and creature effects and some seriously emotional beats that, yes, still make me cry.

I would love to hear your thoughts on The Monster Squad!

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Theme Music: Verbal Diorama Theme Song

Music by Chloe Enticott - Compositions by Chloe Facebook

Lyrics by Chloe Enticott (and me!)

Production by Ellis Powell-Bevan of Ewenique Studios.



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About the Podcast

Verbal Diorama
The award-winning podcast celebrating the history and legacy of movies you know, and movies you don't.
The award-winning podcast celebrating the history and legacy of movies you know, and movies you don't.

Have you ever wondered how your favourite movies were made? Hosted by Em, Verbal Diorama takes you behind the scenes to discover the extraordinary stories of cast and crew who bring movies to life.

Movies are tough to make, and this podcast proves how amazing it is that they actually exist. From Hollywood classics to hidden gems, each episode explores the history, legacy, and untold stories that make cinema magic.

Ear Worthy 2024 Best Movie Podcast Winner | Golden Lobes 2025 Earworm Award Nominee | Ear Worthy 2025 Best Movie Podcast Nominee

New episodes weekly. Subscribe now on your favourite podcast app.
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About your host

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Em .

Hi! I'm Em. I created Verbal Diorama in 2018, and launched the podcast in February 2019 to rapturous applause and acclaim.... from my cat Jess.

The modus operandi of Verbal Diorama is simple: movies are tough to make! The coming together of a team of people from all walks of life to make something to entertain, delight and educate us for 90+ mins is not an easy task, and yet so many succeed at it. That must be something to celebrate.

I'm here to do just that - to celebrate movies. Their history and legacy, and why they remain so special to so many of us.

Episodes are audibly book ended by Jess. She sadly passed away in March 2022, aged almost 18. She featured in many episodes of the podcast, and that's why you can hear her at the end of every episode. The role of official feline producer is now held by the comparatively quieter Evie and Peggy.

I love podcasts, and listen to many, but never my own.

I unashamedly love The Mummy (1999) and Grease 2. I'm still looking for a cool rider.