Garth Marenghi's Darkplace (2004)

Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is a captivating dive into the depths of the 1980s horror genre through the lens of acclaimed horror writer Garth Marenghi, a comedic brainchild of the award-winning Matthew Holness. The series unfolds in a hospital precariously situated over the gates of Hell in Romford, where the line between the real world and Marenghi's twisted imagination blurs. Touted as a groundbreaking series by Marenghi and his publicist-cum-co-star, Dean Learner, Darkplace is an enthralling labyrinth of horror, drama, and absurd humor. The show is vividly characterized by its startlingly cheap production values, delightfully dreadful dialogue, and comically violent scenes - a parody of the era it aims to represent. Marenghi, who not only wrote but also produced, directed, and starred in the series, enthralls the audience with a layered narrative, oscillating between the episodes and modern-day interviews. These interviews serve as both a prologue and an interruption, adding another dimension to this hilarious horror spectacle. However, beneath the surface of its seemingly clichéd plot and ostensible misogyny, Darkplace is an inventive exploration of the genre, its gaping plot holes only adding to its ironic charm. Garth Marenghi's Darkplace, thus, emerges as a glorious pastiche of 80s horror, celebrating its flaws with unabashed humor and audacious storytelling.

Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is an action show featuring Matt Berry and created by Billy Brown.

Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Peacock, Peacock Premium and Pluto TV and it's also available on Amazon Prime Video.