RiffTrax Shorts Season 1 Episode 1 Drugs Are Like That

RiffTrax Shorts season 1 episode 1 is titled "Drugs Are Like That" and features a series of short educational films from the 1950s and 60s that attempt to educate children about the dangers of drug use.

The episode begins with a short introduction from the RiffTrax team, who explain their concept of "riffing" on old films by providing humorous commentary and poking fun at the outdated information and production values. They set the stage for what is to come, and viewers are immediately transported back in time to the era of "just say no" campaigns and over-the-top scare tactics.

The first short film, "Drugs Are Like That," is the main focus of the episode. It features a pair of kids who stumble upon a packet of pills and have to decide whether or not to take them. The film breaks down the decision-making process into a series of cartoonish scenarios, with an ominous voiceover warning the kids of the dire consequences of taking drugs. The RiffTrax team has a field day with the overly simplistic messaging and stilted acting, pointing out the unintentionally hilarious moments as they unfold on screen.

The episode continues with a series of other shorts, all of which revolve around the same theme of drug education for children. "The Terrible Truth" is a melodramatic film that attempts to scare kids straight by portraying drug addiction as a slippery slope that leads to crime and eventual death. The RiffTrax team pokes fun at the overwrought dialogue and heavy-handed symbolism, turning the grim message into a comedic spectacle.

Other segments include "The Hard Way," a film about a teen who gets hooked on pills and has to come to terms with his addiction, and "Narcotics: Pit of Despair," which focuses on the dangers of heroin specifically. Throughout each short, the RiffTrax team provides witty commentary and insightful observations, often riffing on the bizarre outfits and hairstyles of the era.

One of the highlights of the episode is a short called "A Case of Spring Fever," which has nothing to do with drugs but still manages to be an entertaining watch. The film follows a group of high school students as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescent romance. The RiffTrax team takes this opportunity to riff on the outdated gender roles and dated slang, making for some of the funniest moments of the episode.

Overall, "Drugs Are Like That" sets the tone for the rest of the RiffTrax Shorts series, showcasing the team's ability to turn even the most serious and didactic material into a comedic triumph. The episodes are a must-watch for anyone who enjoys clever commentary and hilarious jokes, and the first installment is a great introduction to what promises to be a truly unique viewing experience.