Ep 4. Painkiller

Tales from the Darkside is a horror anthology television series that was first aired in 1984. The show is known for presenting a range of horror stories, ranging from supernatural and mythical creatures to psychological terrors and human evil. Each episode of the show is a standalone story, and they all offer unique and chillingly terrifying experiences. The show's first season comprised of 24 episodes, and the fourth episode titled Painkiller is a must-watch for horror fans.

The episode Painkiller is a story about an older man named Mr. Leverett who is suffering from immense pain in his leg and seeks medical help from Dr. Payne. Dr. Payne gives him a prescription for a painkiller, and Mr. Leverett becomes addicted to the pills almost immediately. He starts taking them more often than prescribed, and when he exhausts his supply, he turns to stealing prescription pads from Dr. Payne's office to get more medicine.

As he starts taking the pills, his reality starts to distort. Painkiller shares a view of Mr. Leverett's experience as he falls deeper into his addiction. He starts to experience hallucinations which allow him to see a world of strange, surreal, and horrifying creatures. A world that he soon realizes is not just a hallucination.

The episode takes viewers on a journey through Mr. Leverett's addiction and subsequent madness. The show explores the dark side of addiction and how it can slowly consume a person's life. Painkiller uses this topic to paint a picture of Mr. Leverett's gradual descent into madness.

The writing and acting in this episode are extraordinary. The portrayal of Mr. Leverett's struggle with addiction and the madness that comes with it is hauntingly realistic. It is easy to lose oneself in the storyline and feel sorry for him. The episode is filled with suspenseful moments, and viewers will find themselves on the edge of their seats throughout.

Painkiller is a well-crafted episode that is sure to terrify any lover of horror and suspense. The episode presents the dangers of addiction in a chillingly realistic manner that is sure to leave viewers feeling unsettled. It is one of the best horror shows to come out of the 80s, and it is a testament to the show masterful storytelling of the supernatural and human depravity.

In conclusion, Painkiller is a must-watch episode of Tales from the Darkside. It is a chilling portrayal of addiction and an exploration of despair, longing, and trauma. The visuals, acting, and storytelling come together to tell a compelling story that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Painkiller is an excellent example of how Tales from the Darkside delivered some of the best horror stories in the 80s, and the show is a must-watch for horror movie lovers.