Tales from the Darkside: “The Yattering and Jack” (S4E07)
Based on a short story by Clive Barker, “The Yattering and Jack” stands out from the usual Tales from the Darkside lineup with its clever writing, dark humour, and uniquely quirky tone. It’s less horror, more supernatural farce—with demons, poltergeist tricks, and a devilishly patient protagonist. This episode is one of the more memorable entries in the series, not for chills, but for its weird charm and satisfying payoff.
Plot Summary
The titular Yattering is a minor demon, sent from Hell to torment and eventually drive Jack Polo insane. Jack, a perpetually cheerful and unflappable pickle salesman (yes, really), proves to be the demon’s worst nightmare. No matter what the Yattering does—shattering ornaments, moving furniture, exploding the Christmas turkey—Jack remains unbothered, even polite.
The demon’s frustration grows as its antics escalate, but Jack’s zenlike calmness never wavers. Eventually, Jack’s true intentions are revealed: he’s known all along that the Yattering was real, and he’s been carefully baiting it into violating Hell’s rules. Once the Yattering touches Jack, it forfeits its freedom and becomes his servant. Jack wins, and the Yattering is hilariously defeated.
What Works
Smart Source Material
Clive Barker’s touch is evident here. The script has an intelligence and wit that’s rare in Darkside episodes. There’s thematic depth underneath the humour, and the twist ending feels earned.
Great Performances
Tony Carbone, playing Jack, is delightful. He manages to walk the line between affable and calculating. The Yattering, played with manic energy by Bruce Payne, is a scene-stealer. He’s twitchy, exasperated, and entertaining in every frame.
The Humor
This episode is genuinely funny in places, especially in its depiction of demonic failure. The idea of a high-strung demon being psychologically outmanoeuvred by a genial pickle salesman is absurd, but it works.
A Clever Twist on the Supernatural
The rules of Hell—no physical contact unless provoked—add an interesting constraint to the conflict. Jack’s subtle manipulation of those rules is a satisfying narrative payoff.
What Doesn’t Work
Silly Visual Effects
Some of the poltergeist effects haven’t aged well. Flying knick-knacks and shaking furniture look more like an ’80s sitcom than supernatural horror. However, given the comedic tone, it’s forgivable.
Tone Might Be Jarring for Some
Viewers expecting straight horror might be thrown off by the episode’s whimsical style. It plays more like a supernatural comedy sketch than a terrifying tale.
The Yattering’s Look
The demon’s design is more impish than frightening—kind of like a goth mime who lost a bet. It fits the tone but might underwhelm horror purists.
Themes: Control, Patience, and Outsmarting Evil
This is a rare horror story where the human completely outmanoeuvres the supernatural. Jack’s calm in the face of chaos is a metaphor for how patience and intelligence can defeat even the most persistent forces of destruction. It’s also a great example of Tales from the Darkside’s occasional ability to blend genres and deliver moral tales without a heavy hand.
And of course, it’s a bit of a role reversal: the demon is the one unravelling, not the human. That’s where the humour—and the real subversion—lies.
Final Thoughts: A Playful and Sharp Supernatural Comedy
“The Yattering and Jack” is a hidden gem in the Tales from the Darkside catalogue. It’s not particularly scary, but it doesn’t need to be. The sharp writing, fun performances, and clever concept elevate it well above average. It’s one of the rare episodes where everything works together harmoniously—even the hammy special effects have their charm.
Who Would Enjoy This Episode?
- Fans of Clive Barker and supernatural comedies
- Viewers who enjoy stories about clever humans outwitting monsters
- Anyone who likes quirky, character-driven tales
Who Might Not Enjoy It?
- Horror purists looking for scares over satire
- Viewers who dislike “talky” or theatrical episodes
- Anyone allergic to over-the-top demon antics
Final Verdict: Smart, Funny, and Demonically Delightful
With wit, charm, and a touch of hellfire, “The Yattering and Jack” is one of Darkside’s most entertaining episodes. It’s not about fear—it’s about the joy of a good, old-fashioned supernatural hustle.
