NYCC Panel "Hysteria!" Puts a Modern Spin on ’80s Trends
A new horror-comedy series, "Hysteria!", has made its debut on Peacock, offering a unique blend of yellow journalism, humor, and fake blood set in the late ’80s. The show features a star-studded cast including Julie Bowen, Bruce Campbell, and Anna Camp, who recently discussed the series at New York Comic Con.
Set in a small town in the Michigan suburbs during the 1980s, "Hysteria!" follows the story of a mother, played by Bowen, whose unpopular high school son embraces heavy metal music. When a popular teenager goes missing, he seizes the opportunity to capitalize on the town’s hysteria over a supposed satanic symbol to elevate his band’s status. The series promises an array of intriguing elements in its eight episodes, hinting at the potential introduction of a cult, supernatural occurrences, or shared psychosis.
Reflecting on the era of the Reagan administration, Bruce Campbell, who portrays the town’s police chief, highlighted the tendency of individuals to rebel against authority when faced with accusations of satanic associations. He emphasized the prevalence of disinformation during the Satanic Panic of the ’80s, underscoring the enduring nature of misinformation in society.
Creator Matthew Scott Kane drew inspiration from the rise of fake news in contemporary times, drawing parallels to the unfounded fears and misinformation spread during the Satanic Panic era. Kane expressed concerns about the ease with which false information can influence public perception and behavior.
Anna Camp, who plays a religious zealot in the series, discussed the chilling portrayal of blind followers and the allure of power in her character. Meanwhile, Campbell praised the quality of the script and the unpredictability of the storyline, teasing viewers with promises of unexpected twists and turns.
Despite her aversion to horror, Julie Bowen found the complexity of her character in "Hysteria!" appealing, showcasing a different facet of her acting abilities beyond her comedic roles. The series also features a nostalgic soundtrack of 1980s hits, adding to the retro charm of the show.
While the production of "Hysteria!" faced challenges, including delays due to a writer’s strike, the team persevered to bring the series to fruition. Executive Producer David A. Goodman expressed optimism about the show’s potential for a second season, citing the positive reception of the pilot script and the strong connection it has formed with audiences.
Fans of horror and heavy metal can delve into the world of "Hysteria!" by streaming all eight episodes on Peacock, immersing themselves in a blend of humor, horror, and ’80s nostalgia.
