Tales from the Darkside Season 2 Episode 2 Lifebomb
- October 6, 1985
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5.7 (221)
In Tales from the Darkside season 2 episode 2, titled "Lifebomb," a man named Charlie (played by Tony Lo Bianco) is down on his luck and drowning in debt. He's plagued by constant thoughts of his own mortality and the fear of dying alone. That's when he comes across an advertisement for "Lifebombs," a unique, high-tech product that promises to protect its owner from any harm.
Charlie purchases the Lifebomb and eagerly awaits its arrival, but he quickly discovers that its effects are not what he expected. The Lifebomb is a small device that attaches to a person's body and emits a high-pitched noise in the presence of danger. It's supposed to warn the owner of impending threats and protect them in the event of an accident. However, Charlie soon learns that the Lifebomb is far from foolproof.
As Charlie goes about his daily life, he begins to realize that the Lifebomb is more trouble than it's worth. It goes off at the most inconvenient times, causing him to become a laughingstock at work and ruining his chances with his crush, Emily (played by Donna Mitchell). Despite its flaws, Charlie becomes obsessed with the Lifebomb and refuses to take it off.
As the days go by, Charlie's fear of death becomes increasingly irrational. He locks himself in his apartment and refuses to leave, convinced that the world is out to get him. His paranoia reaches a boiling point when he receives a letter from the company that manufactured the Lifebomb, warning him that the device has been recalled due to serious safety concerns.
Desperate to keep the Lifebomb, Charlie seeks out the help of a quirky scientist named Dr. Braun (played by Victor Garber). Dr. Braun is the inventor of the Lifebomb and agrees to help Charlie fix it. However, as they work together, Charlie starts to suspect that Dr. Braun has his own agenda.
"Lifebomb" is a chilling episode that explores themes of mortality and the dangers of technology. It is a cautionary tale about the consequences of seeking out quick fixes for our fears and insecurities. The episode's standout performance comes from Lo Bianco, who brings a compelling mix of desperation and vulnerability to the role of Charlie. Overall, "Lifebomb" is a thrilling and thought-provoking addition to Tales from the Darkside's second season.