Watch Monsters

Monsters is an anthology horror series that aired from 1988-1990. Produced by Lionsgate, the show was one of the earliest examples of horror TV and was known for its unique approach to storytelling and the quality of its special effects. Each episode of Monsters tells a different story, oftentimes taking inspiration from classic horror tales like Frankenstein or The Wolfman. However, what sets the show apart from other horror series is its willingness to experiment with different genres and storytelling techniques. Some episodes take a comedic approach, while others are more dramatic or suspenseful. Some episodes are set in the present day, while others take place in the past or future.

One of the show's strengths is its willingness to take risks. This is evident in episodes like "The Cocoon", which features a creature that's never fully seen on screen, or "The Moving Finger", which focuses on a man who becomes possessed by a mysterious entity. The show's willingness to tackle unconventional subject matter and storytelling gimmicks kept viewers on their toes and ensured that no two episodes were exactly alike.

Another highlight of Monsters is its use of practical effects. Due to the show's low budget, the producers relied heavily on practical creature effects rather than CGI or other digital techniques. While some of the effects may seem dated by modern standards, they are an impressive feat for a late-80s television series. From rubber monsters to prosthetic makeup to puppetry, Monsters employed a wide array of techniques to bring its various creatures to life.

Although the show's format didn't allow for recurring characters, each episode featured a different set of actors and actresses. Some well-known faces that appeared on the show include Linda Blair, Tony Todd, and David Warner, among others. However, the real stars of Monsters are the various creatures that populate each episode. From aliens to vampires to mutated creatures, there is no shortage of terrifying monsters to keep viewers on edge.

Despite its low budget and experimental approach, Monsters was well-received by critics and audiences during its initial run. Roger Ebert praised the show's "surprisingly effective" blend of horror and humor, and the series was nominated for several Emmy awards over the course of its run.

Today, Monsters is remembered as a cult classic and a noteworthy example of early horror television. While some aspects of the show may seem dated to modern audiences, its inventive storytelling, impressive practical effects, and enduring sense of suspense and terror continue to captivate viewers today.

Monsters is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (72 episodes). The series first aired on October 22, 1988.