Ep 4. Episode 4

In Dark Tourist season 1 episode 4, the theme is "Extreme Haunts." Host David Farrier travels to America to explore the trend of "extreme haunts," which are immersive horror experiences that push participants to their limits.

The episode begins with Farrier visiting McKamey Manor, widely considered to be the most extreme haunt in the world. Located in San Diego, California, the haunt requires participants to sign a waiver acknowledging that they may be physically and psychologically injured during the experience. Farrier interviews Russ McKamey, the owner of the haunt, who explains his philosophy behind the extreme scares. Farrier also speaks with participants who have gone through the haunt, some of whom have been hospitalized as a result of their experience.

Next, Farrier visits a less extreme but still intense haunt in New Orleans called the House of Shock. Unlike McKamey Manor, the House of Shock is open to the public and has a more theatrical approach to the scares. Farrier witnesses a live performance that includes fire, chainsaws, and actors in elaborate horror costumes. He speaks with the creators of the haunt, who explain their commitment to the art of fear.

The episode shifts to a different kind of extreme haunt: a simulated illegal border crossing experience in Texas. Located on a ranch near the Mexican border, the experience aims to give participants an idea of what it's like to cross the border into the United States illegally. The experience features fake border patrol agents, actors playing migrants, and simulated gunfire. Farrier speaks with the creators of the experience, who defend their decision to create a simulated version of a dangerous and traumatic experience.

In the final segment of the episode, Farrier visits a haunt in Tennessee called Blackout, which is notorious for its extreme psychological scares. Participants are required to go through the haunt alone, blindfolded, and with their hands tied behind their back. Farrier speaks with Tim Haskell, the creator of the haunt, who explains his approach to creating fear. Farrier also speaks with participants who have gone through the experience, some of whom describe feeling violated and traumatized.

Throughout the episode, Farrier grapples with the ethics of extreme haunts and questions what motivates people to seek out these intense experiences. He also reflects on his own fear and discomfort as he navigates each haunt. Overall, the episode offers a fascinating look at a subculture of horror that pushes the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.

Fans of horror and true crime will appreciate the insights into extreme haunts, while those who are more squeamish may find some of the content unsettling. The episode is well-produced and thoughtful, presenting a balanced view of the extreme haunt phenomenon and allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions.