Grab your pillowcase, don your sexy costumes, only take one candy at Principal Wilkins' house, avoid any invitations to Sheep's Meadow, and whatever you do… don't let the Jack-o'-lantern go out!
Now hop in, because we're heading to Warren Valley, Ohio — the Halloweeniest town in the Midwest!
Art and Erik are prowling through all the bustling streets, spooky alleyways, and even the old quarry as they deep dive into Trick 'r Treat, Michael Dougherty's now-beloved horror anthology that celebrates (and enforces) every Halloween rule in the book.
Originally set for an October 2007 theatrical release, Trick 'r Treat was abruptly shelved by the studio and later found new life on home video — where it quickly became a cult favorite and a must-watch for horror fans every October.
We're covering it all, including:
The tangled web of intersecting Halloween night stories
The rise of Sam — horror's cutest (and deadliest) holiday enforcer
Dylan Baker's delightfully dark turn as everyone's favorite "educator"
Anna Paquin's full-moon surprise and Brian Cox's showdown with tradition itself
Werewolves, revenge, and one very unlucky school bus
The traditions, the atmosphere, and why this movie feels like Halloween itself
How it went from a shelved studio release to a modern cult classic
So light your pumpkins, grab your candy, and join us as we celebrate a film that proves:
Always respect the traditions.
Listen now at midnightcinemapod.com — or find Midnight Cinema with Art & Erik on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your horror fix.
And remember… if you hear giggling outside your window tonight — it's probably just Sam checking on your pumpkin. 🎃
Things talked about in this episode:
Watch Director Mike Daughetry's original animated short Seasons Greetings
Salem Massachusetts Haunted Happenings.
Tod Solondz's Happiness
Photographer Diane Arbus
