James Kline and J.H. Alison kick off Killer Family Month this November with a massive Retro Blood double feature covering The Stepfather and Stepfather II—two of the most unsettling and underrated psychological slashers of the late 1980s.

The boys dive into the real-life inspiration behind the story: the chilling case of mass murderer John List, whose crimes helped shape the blueprint for the Stepfather character. From there, they explore the behind-the-scenes history of both films, including the directors who brought these nightmares to life and how the series evolved from intimate psychological terror to more over-the-top suburban mayhem.

Of course, the spotlight is on the legendary Terry O’Quinn, whose terrifying, charismatic performance as Jerry Blake/Bill Hodgkins remains one of horror’s greatest “killers hiding in plain sight.” James and Alison talk O’Quinn’s preparation, his approach to the role, and why he completely elevates both entries.

Then it’s on to the full breakdowns:
🔸 Which film is creepier—and why?
🔸 The most disturbing scenes vs. the unintentionally hilarious ones.
🔸 The wild suburban characters who absolutely had the boys cracking up.
🔸 How the sequels expand (or totally derail) the mythology of the Stepfather.

Two films, one monstrous man trying to build the “perfect family” by any means necessary. And Retro Blood dives into every twisted moment.

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