Decoding the Delightfully Dark: Why Marvel’s Runaways Embrace “Arsenic and Old lace”
Have you ever wondered about the quirky name behind Gert and Old Lace in Marvel’s Runaways? It’s a nod to a classic black comedy, and the connection is richer – and darker – than you might think. Let’s unravel the story behind this cinematic inspiration and why it perfectly suits these unique characters.
A Halloween Haunting & Hidden Secrets
“Arsenic and Old Lace” unfolds on Halloween night, a setting that inherently suggests mischief and hidden things. The Brewster family home sits close to a graveyard, and the aunts, Abby and Martha, have essentially created one in their basement. This proximity to the spectral world fuels the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
The movie’s title cards even feature whimsical witches on broomsticks, hinting at the supernatural undercurrent. While there aren’t literal witches, Abby and Martha embody the spirit of them, luring unsuspecting victims with a deceptively sweet facade – much like the witch in “Hansel & Gretel.”
The Poison & The Past: Breaking Down the Title
The “arsenic” part is straightforward: Abby and Martha use arsenic to poison their victims, cleverly disguising the taste in wine. You’ll notice a recurring gag where characters almost take a sip, onyl to be saved at the last moment.
but what about “old lace”? The title subtly references Myrtle Reed’s 1902 romance novel, ”lavender and Old Lace.” That story centers on a woman uncovering a tragic love story through relics in her aunt’s attic. Though,the secret hidden in the Brewster aunts’ cellar is far more sinister!
Why Runaways Chose This Film
So,why did the creators of runaways choose this particular film as inspiration? One key parallel lies in the finding of hidden parental secrets. Just like Mortimer Stoddard uncovers the truth about his aunts, the Runaways discover the dark deeds of their own parents.
Beyond that, it’s likely a character-driven choice. Gert, a confident and clever teenager, referencing a classic film adds to her personality. It suggests a desire to appear sophisticated and well-read, and as Arsenic herself points out, movies made before 1985 can be incredibly enjoyable.
A Perfect Fit for a troubled Family
Ultimately, “Arsenic and Old Lace” provides a wonderfully ironic and darkly humorous foundation for the Runaways’ dinosaur duo.It’s a clever Easter egg that rewards attentive viewers and adds another layer of depth to the story. You’ll appreciate the subtle brilliance of connecting these seemingly disparate worlds.
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