EPISODE · Mar 16, 2026 · 26 MIN
The Hitcher (1986): How this Road Horror Still Hooks Fans
from Not Now in Theaters: A Retro and Cult Film Podcast · host Over-Egged Media, LLC
Why Did Critics Hate on The Hitcher and Yet Fans Love It 40 Years Later?Moma told The Hitcher's main character Jim Halsey never to pick up a hitchhiker, and when he picks one up, he immediately learns why. His mysterious passenger, John Ryder, goes on to stalk him across the West Texas Desert, leaving a trail of destruction and death.Inspired by The Doors' song "Riders on the Storm," The Hitcher infamously got zero stars from Roger Ebert and no love from his buddy Gene Siskel.But wouldn't you know it? This horror thriller found fans on home media and cable. And it's a fanbase that continues to this day.Join me for a discussion of Rutger Hauer's all-time villain performance, why the murky details of the plot are an asset, and the film's lasting legacy.Directed by Robert Harmon. Written by Eric Red. Starring Rutger Hauer, C. Thomas Howell, Jeffrey DeMunn, and Jennifer Jason LeighConnect with us on Bluesky:@not-ni-theaters.bsky.socialAnd to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com
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Why Did Critics Hate on The Hitcher and Yet Fans Love It 40 Years Later? Moma told The Hitcher's main character Jim Halsey never to pick up a hitchhiker, and when he picks one up, he immediately learns why. His mysterious passenger, John Ryder, goes on to stalk him across the West Texas Desert, leaving a trail of destruction and death. Inspired by The Doors' song "Riders on the Storm," The Hitcher infamously got zero stars from Roger Ebert and no love from his buddy Gene Siskel. But wouldn'...
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The Hitcher (1986): How this Road Horror Still Hooks Fans
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