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: Witch’s Night Out

Tread Perilously‘s witchy October continues with the 1978 TV special Witch’s Night Out.

While the adults in town begin to plan a thoroughly grown-up Halloween party, all youngsters Small and Tender want to do is scare them with their Halloween masks. But when everyone recognizes them during trick-or-treating, they run home dejected. Their cries to become real monsters are heard by the local witch, who happens to live in the abandoned mansion the adults are using as the site of their gathering. Will the town learn the true meaning of Halloween when Small, Tender, and their babysitter, Bazooey, are transformed by the witch’s magicks?

The drug comparisons are constant with both Erik and Justin deciding Bazooey knows where to get the good stuff. Erik points out the special’s origins in Canada. The quality of 1970s animation is also discussed. Small and Tender join the ranks of the Little Shits while Justin finds their names unacceptable. The pair once again threaten to do a Voula episode of Degrassi Junior High. Gilda Radner easily wins voice cast MVP status, although Catherine O’Hara proves a surprising addition to the ensemble. Erik theorizes a Dan Aykroyd cameo, as well. Justin almost convinces Erik to watch Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, and Mayor Goodly turns out to be a surprise bad guy.

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