Campfire Radio Theater – “The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea”
We are proud to present “The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” a harrowing descent into the abyss from Campfire Radio Theater.
Months ago, creator John Ballentine described this story to me, and I was immediately intrigued by the challenge it presented. The sound design needed to be a character in itself—the creak of the hull, the oppressive silence of the ocean, and the mechanical claustrophobia of a nuclear submarine. My score had to illuminate that tension without getting in the way. The result, combined with a solid cast and a well-written script, is a really strong episode.
“Literal Horror Movies in Your Ears”
Campfire Radio Theater has been praised by listeners as “the benchmark of audio drama,” and this episode is a prime example of why. Reviews on Podbay highlight the “phenomenal” sound design that “completely immerses you” in the story.
This specific episode has garnered acclaim for its authenticity. Listeners with real-world naval experience have even praised the episode’s tension, noting that it reminded them exactly why they stay away from submarines. As one listener put it: “Excellent writing and execution, talented cast, and what a twist”.
Episode Synopsis
“What terror lies below the depths…”
Wrestling with his own inner demons, the captain of a nuclear submarine must face the haunting prospect of a world perhaps beyond the brink of annihilation as well as a ghostly spectre tracking them in the abyss.
Warning: Explicit language and frightening situations.
Cast and Crew
Written, directed, and produced by John Ballentine.
Original music score by Kevin Hartnell.
The Cast:
- Graham Rowat
- Jared Rivet
- Blain Hicklin
- Mary Murphy
- Juliana Gutierrez Arango
- Joe Stofko
- Alvin Bolling II
- Mark Reece Healey
- Spring Heeled Jack
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