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The Film Flamers: A Horror Movie Podcast

The Omen (1976)

·1 hr 20 min·5 clips
Damien's nanny locks eyes with a Rottweiler, then hangs herself in the middle of his fifth birthday party.
Chris and Robert, hosts of The Film Flamers, provide a detailed review and analysis of the 1976 supernatural horror film 'The Omen'. They begin by summarizing the plot, focusing on Robert and Catherine Thorne, who unknowingly adopt Damien, the Antichrist, after their biological son dies. The hosts walk through key scenes, including the nanny's suicide at Damien's birthday party, Father Brennan's warning and death, and Catherine's tragic arc involving gaslighting and her eventual murder. They discuss the film's technical aspects, noting Richard Donner's direction and the 'soft look' of the cinematography that dates the film. Jerry Goldsmith's iconic score, which won an Oscar, is praised for its tension and use of a chorus. The episode delves into production details, such as the debate between Donner and writer David Seltzer over whether Damien's evil should be ambiguous. Casting anecdotes are shared, including how Harvey Stevens won the role of Damien by attacking Donner, and how actors like Dick Van Dyke were considered for Robert Thorne. The hosts analyze the film's themes, comparing Catherine's treatment to 'The Yellow Wallpaper' and discussing the 'evil detecting dog' trope. They review the film's financial success, critical reception, and legacy, including its influence on the number 666 in pop culture. The episode concludes with the hosts rating the film four stars, acknowledging its campy moments but recognizing its importance in horror history.

As heard by us

A talkative, funny look at The Omen that lets the dread build instead of sprinting past it.

Chris and Robert open with franchise housekeeping before settling into a talky, comic discussion of Richard Donner's 1976 supernatural horror film.

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Why you'd press play

Play this if you like horror chat that can joke about Damien and still follow the dread.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
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