The notorious shower scene in Monsters Season 2 appears in episode 2.03, titled “Jar.” This darkly comedic and unsettling segment is a key moment within the episode, contributing significantly to its overall tone and plot progression.
A Deep Dive into “Jar” and the Infamous Scene
Episode 2.03, “Jar,” aired on October 8, 1989, and tells the story of Walter Poindexter, a taxidermist with an unusual hobby: collecting unusual specimens. The episode takes a truly bizarre and darkly comedic turn when Walter finds a small, grotesque creature in a jar, which he brings home. This creature grows rapidly and develops a taste for human flesh. The infamous shower scene occurs as the creature begins to terrorize Walter’s household.
The scene itself is unsettling rather than overtly graphic, playing on suspense and the viewer’s imagination. The creature’s presence is implied, shadows and suggestive noises creating the horror. While not explicitly shown, the events that unfold in the shower contribute significantly to the episode’s overall atmosphere of creeping dread and body horror. The implications are far more disturbing than explicit gore, a hallmark of the Monsters series.
The shower scene underscores the episode’s themes of obsession, transformation, and the consequences of tampering with the unknown. It is a pivotal moment where the mundane horror of Walter’s life escalates into something truly monstrous. This specific segment is frequently cited as one of the most memorable and disturbing moments from the second season, solidifying its place in Monsters lore.
Demystifying the Shower Scene: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the shower scene in “Jar” and Monsters Season 2.
Was the Shower Scene Censored in Any Way?
While the shower scene is suspenseful and disturbing, it was created under the constraints of late-1980s television standards. There was no explicit gore or nudity depicted, allowing it to air without significant censorship. The horror is largely psychological and relies on implication rather than graphic display. However, some local stations may have had their own policies that slightly altered the broadcast.
Who Directed “Jar,” the Episode Containing the Shower Scene?
Ted Gershuny directed the episode “Jar.” Gershuny also directed numerous other episodes of Monsters, as well as episodes of other genre television shows such as Tales from the Darkside. His direction in “Jar” is particularly notable for its effective use of suspense and atmosphere.
Who Wrote the Screenplay for “Jar”?
The screenplay for “Jar” was written by Allen Coulter. Coulter is also known for his work on shows like The Sopranos, Boardwalk Empire, and House of Cards.
How Did Viewers React to the Shower Scene When It Originally Aired?
Reaction to the shower scene was mixed. Some viewers found it genuinely frightening and suspenseful, appreciating its use of suggestion over graphic imagery. Others found it darkly humorous, fitting with the overall tone of the Monsters series. However, many remembered the sense of unease and disturbing implications long after the episode aired.
Is the Shower Scene Available to View Online?
Yes, the shower scene, along with the entire episode “Jar,” is typically available on various streaming platforms that host Monsters Season 2. Availability may vary based on your region and subscription services. Clips may also be found on video-sharing sites, though their legality and quality may differ.
What Inspired the “Jar” Episode and the Creature’s Design?
The inspiration for “Jar” likely comes from classic horror and science fiction tropes, such as body horror and the dangers of unchecked scientific curiosity. The creature’s design draws upon elements of both insect and humanoid forms, creating a grotesque and unsettling appearance. Specific influences have not been publicly disclosed, but the episode resonates with themes found in works like The Thing and Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Does the Actor in the Shower Know What is Happening?
While the actress in the shower is not explicitly shown reacting to the creature, the scene is constructed to create the impression that she is unaware of the danger until it is too late. The sound design and camera angles are carefully crafted to build suspense and leave the viewer with a sense of dread.
How Does the Shower Scene Contribute to the Overall Themes of Monsters Season 2?
The shower scene exemplifies the themes of fear of the unknown, the fragility of the human body, and the unexpected terrors that can lurk in everyday life, which are central to Monsters Season 2. It showcases the series’ ability to blend horror with dark humor, creating a uniquely unsettling viewing experience.
Is the Shower Scene Remade or Referenced in Any Other Horror Media?
While there is no direct remake of the scene, its influence can be seen in various horror films and television shows that utilize similar tropes of implied threat and vulnerability in intimate settings. The scene’s legacy lives on through homages and reinterpretations in subsequent horror media.
How Long is the Shower Scene in “Jar”?
The actual duration of the shower scene is relatively short, likely lasting only a minute or two. However, its impact is disproportionately large due to the effective use of suspense and sound design.
What is the Overall Tone of “Jar” as an Episode of Monsters?
“Jar” maintains a tone that blends dark humor with genuine horror. It is a prime example of the show’s ability to balance the macabre with moments of absurdity, creating a unique and often unsettling viewing experience. The episode explores themes of obsession, transformation, and the consequences of playing God, all within a framework of darkly comedic storytelling.
Why is the Shower Scene Considered Memorable in the Context of Monsters?
The shower scene is memorable because it encapsulates the essence of the Monsters series: using suspense, suggestion, and unsettling imagery to create a lasting impact. It is a prime example of how horror can be effectively conveyed without relying on excessive gore or graphic violence. The scene’s effectiveness lies in its ability to tap into primal fears and leave the viewer with a sense of unease long after the episode has ended. The iconic nature of the shower scene, coupled with the overall quality of “Jar” as an episode, contributes significantly to its continued popularity and discussion among fans of the Monsters series.