About this episode
In Episode 11 of Scream Creeps, Jeremy, Josh, and Elaine continue their countdown of the "Top 35 Scariest Movies According to Science," landing on #30: the 2013 sci-fi horror Dark Skies. The crew debates whether this film even belongs in the horror genre or if it's strictly a sci-fi thriller reminiscent of Close Encounters of the Third Kind.The discussion is lukewarm at best. While Jeremy appreciated the subtle alien designs and the clever use of light reflections to create symbols, Josh and Elaine found the movie largely boring and filled with plot holes. They lament the underuse of the brilliant J.K. Simmons, whose character appears briefly to deliver exposition and then vanishes. The hosts also break down the ending twist—where the aliens take the older son instead of the younger one—and question the logic of the parents not noticing their child's massive bruises earlier.Key Highlights [00:46] Science of Scare #30: The hosts introduce Dark Skies as the 30th scariest movie according to the scientific study, though they question its placement. [01:36] Horror or Sci-Fi?: A debate on the genre, with the group leaning towards it being a sci-fi thriller rather than a true horror film due to the lack of kills and focus on abduction. [06:42] J.K. Simmons Cameo: The crew expresses disappointment that J.K. Simmons had such a small role, basically serving as an exposition dump for five minutes. [07:17] The Twist Ending: A discussion on the finale, where the aliens abduct the older brother, Jesse, subverting the movie's focus on the younger Sam. [15:43] Plot Holes: Josh points out major logic gaps, such as the parents not noticing their son's extensive bruising until a pool party and the lack of CPS involvement despite threats. [27:06] Creepo-Meter Ratings: The scores are low again. Jeremy gives it a 1, while Josh and Elaine rate it a 2, agreeing it was watchable but far from scary.
