Tread Perilously is a podcast in which hosts Erik Amaya and author Justin Robinson watch the “worst” episodes of popular TV shows, attempting to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on the most off-key moments.

This Week: Tales from the Darkside‘s “Auld Acquaintances”

Tread Perilously continues Horror Month with the Tales from the Darkside episode called “Auld Acquaintances.”

When Mary and Elizabeth meet at the Essex historical society museum for their annual amulet swap, they relive their first meeting in 1692. At the time, Mary was a witch with Satan-derived powers and Elizabeth was a power-hungry woman masquerading as a maid of virtue true. But as both are accused of witchery, it may be the end for them. A last-second deal secures their freedom, but will they be able to abide by the terms for 300+ years?

Erik and Justin throw the Commonwealth of Massachusetts under the bus. They also determine Essex is, indeed, a real city in that state and devise a new reality series called “Bedevil’d.” Justin regales Erik with the story of Giles Cory. Erik explains why Edward Woodward is named “Edward Woodward.” He also recalls the full name of Webster’s Ma’am. Justin stumbles into a fantastic concept for one of his novels. The pair try to ignore the cheap production design, but call-out a poorly conceived special effect. Erik clearly explains his problem with former X-Men writer Chris Claremont, and the sexual mores of the 1690s prove to be a source of several good gags.

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