Episodit
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Ever wondered what it's like to escape a religious cult? Have you ever been curious about why so many horror movies feature cults and how that reflects our real anxieties of being duped?
In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the harrowing experiences of an ex-cult member and co-host of the hit podcast, Cultimatum.
Melody, an ex-member of the House of Yahweh cult, along with her co-host, Andrew, reveal the secretive nature of cult culture, rules, and the profound impact of years spent under the control of a doomsday cult.
Plus, discover the red flags to look out for and the psychological toll cults can take on regular, smart people who might just be looking for support.
If you're curious about the truth behind religious cults, doomsday cults and the newly terrifying 'digital cults' this is a must-listen.
Join me and the hosts of the Cultimatum Podcast, Melody and Anonymous Andrew for shocking revelations about loyalty, fear, and the incredible journey of self-discovery after cult life.
*Episode may contain spoilers for:
Escaping Twin Flames (2023)➡️ Cultimatum podcast 🎙️
Please follow the show(s) and leave reviews! 🌟
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In this BONUS EPISODE on retrofuturism we dive back in to the fascinating intersection of old-fashioned aesthetics and futuristic dreams in the dystopian series, Fallout.
We look at how the show places the past on a pedestal in the shelters from the uniformity to the propaganda. But then, what is the message on the surface? How are we to see the decay of vintage designs? Are we still yearning for the past or is this world of 2161 warning us that progress can all be undone?
*This bonus episode may contain spoilers for
Fallout (but I try to avoid them)💀Join the monthly horror community meetup in the Spooky Space at spookyscholars.com
💀Get more horror recommendations at horrorhelpline.substack.com
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Puuttuva jakso?
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Retrofuturism is an art form, a philosophy but it’s found its way into film as a subgenre of science fiction. Think spacecraft and high technology mixed with mid 20th century 'values' like traditional gender roles and life before the civil rights act.
While sci-fi is horror’s nerdy sister, retro futurism is at odds with both of us in its conservatism and anti-progressive agenda.
So what are the elements of retrofuturism we need to look out for?
How is retrofuturism promoting a conservative mindset under the radar and how can we protect ourselves from becoming enamoured by its nostalgic aesthetic?
How are sci-fi movies with a mid 20th century vibe different from retrofuturism? And what’s the deal with sex work in the 'nostalgic future'?
In this episode we look at the implications of viewing the past as better than now and the dangers of believing that what's behind us is better than where we’re going.
*This episode contains some spoilers for:
Spider Baby (1967)
Soylent Green (1973)
Cowboy Bebop [series] (2021)
Bladerunner (1982)
You might also like:
Episode 52 | Bubblegum Dystopia
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Show info and more about your Horror Headmistress,
Ashe Woodward, at spookyscholars.com
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Are your favourite comic book characters being altered to fit political agendas?
Join me and comic book store owner, Michael Storm, to explore how politics and censorship shape the superhero narratives we've come to love.
Discover the hidden battles between comic creators and the Hollywood (read: MCU) elite.
Learn more about what's at stake, what we might lose of traditional comic book culture to new technology, but also what is great news about the next wave and new generation of comic book appreciators.
*This episode has no spoilers.
Find Michael at:
amazingfantasies.com
towardanarchy.com
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Today I’m talking with horror author Michael Harbron of the Interview with the Devil series.
Writing religious, supernatural horror takes time and creepy, deep dive research.
So not only do we discuss his chilling six-book (so far) series, but we also talk about Satan himself and the very real and growing attraction to The Satanic Temple.
*no worries - there are no real spoilers in this episode.
>michaelharbron.com
>supporting listener businesses: thesmelloffear.com
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Horror may be about darkness and death, but spring is about light and life.
So what happens when horror comes in with its version of doom for this time of year?
What kind of uncomfortable tension are we in for?
What's the deal with Satanic baby movies?
In this episode we look at films with a big spring theme: Babies! How does horror feature pregnancy, birth, RE-birth and the role of women and mothers.
We also get curious to answer why baby horror can give anyone the creeps, whether you have your own little demons or not.
Listen in as we creep cribside for a look into the tiny terror of... BABIES!
Eraserhead (1977)
Immaculate (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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Kevin Bacon may not be the quintessential horror star but he does love horror and has quite a few great horror titles to his name.
In this special episode we're following the name of Kevin Bacon down a trail of horror movies in the game, Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon: Horror Edition.
We're trying to get from horror movies ONLY to a Kevin Bacon horror in six steps.
AND! We try to see how many degress THIS SHOW is from Kevin Bacon - and (HINT HINT) it's LESS than 6!
*This episode may contian spoilers for:
Satan's School for Girls (1973)
Stir of Echoes (1999)
Hauntology (2024)
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Reading is political. Horror is political. So we put these lovebirds together in this episode where I look at the true reasons for book bans, the importance of censorship but also freedom of expression in the horror community.
I'm joined by Paul Cram, an actor with several horror credits who is in it for the art of the story. Learn about what inspires his art and how his search for community led him to create The Men Who Read Book Club, a non-fiction book club that has brought him to connect with men who are invested in discussions about masculinity, queerness, the darker things in life, but also friendship and support.
*This episode may contain spoilers for:
The Soviet Sleep Experiment (2019)The Jane Austen Book Club (2007)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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While you might not think that fantasy would be a genre that does a great job of depicting the dangers of fascism, it does. You might not think that Disney has a hand in this, but again, you’d be wrong.
Here to tell us how and why all this works is writer and speaker, Alex Mell-Taylor. Alex is a fascinating thinker who puts these cultural concerns together for us and brings us examples from film to prove it––something she does regularly on her blog, Alex Has Opinions.
Together we talk about fantasy, dystopia and horror and how film and stories are working together to get us to think more critically about modern affairs. Alex also encourages us to turn to community as the balm for many of the concerns about culture war and, frankly, real actual wars that are happening already or approaching.
*This episode contains spoilers for:
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)I Saw the TV Glow (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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In this Part Two of Two with Alan Katz, the writer and co-creator of the iconic Cryptkeeper from "Tales from the Crypt" television series, we’re focusing on a little more of Alan’s experience with the film industry, especially it’s gate-cryptkeeping .
Alan tells us why he thinks horror lovers are the "sweetest" and "healthiest" people (aww, thanks!) and we get some REALLY good news about what's coming soon for us 'Crypt-lovers.
And if you learn anything horrible in today’s episode, you can say a quick thanks by following the show, and leaving a 5-star review.
*And if you’re ready to step up your horror game, we'd love to have you in the Community of Corpses on Patreon (Patreon.com/spookyscholars ) where you can grab your freebies, discounts and fearsome friends who are ready to talk horror any time.
Spookyscholars.com
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Alan Katz, writer for the TV show, Tales from The Crypt and co-creator of the Cryptkeeper himself joins me for Part One of his horror storytelling journey.
We'll get some background on how the Cryptkeeper came to be but also how Alan has found the best way to continue to bring his dark stories to us once again!
This is part one of a two-part series.
*There are no spoilers in this episode!!
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Love horror? So do we!
This Valentine's Day, join us as we explore the eyeroll that is movie remakes!
Let's look closer at the notion that these captivating remakes are not simply corporate projects, but heartfelt odes 🖤 to the original classics we adore.
Discover why the essence of these iconic horror films lives on, showcasing passion and admiration instead of just profit.
From chilling analysiss of beloved villians to emotional connections that transcend the genre, we're uncovering the real romanticism behind horror movie remakes. Sounds like a perfect Valentine's Day episode to me!
*This episode contains spoilers for:
House of Wax(1953)
House of Wax (2005)
My Bloody Valentine(1981)
My Bloody Valentine 3D (2009)
Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)
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Get ready to sink your teeth into the world of Canadian vampire horror movies.
We have to explore the unexpectedly quirky and, strangely, Canadian films that have put a new spin on the classic vampire genre.
From unexpected comedy to spine-chilling horror, these films are a macabre mix—whether they make you laugh or shudder!
Join us as we uncover some hidden gems featuring vampires that are not just scary but also showcase homegrown Canadian comedy that us canucks 🇨🇦 are known and loved for!
*This episode may contain spoilers for:
Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter (2001)
Suck 2009
Rufus 2012
Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person (2023)
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As far as horror goes, "musical" may not be on the top of your mind as a favourite sub genre. But horror and the mainstream (Read Joker: Folie à Deux) are still making modern musicals.
So what gives?
Musicals, let's face it, are cheesy - though we do love the camp & queerness.
In this episode, we explore the blend of creepy horror themes with catchy rock music, showcasing how legendary rock gods channel their inner monsters.
From cheesy theatrical performances to iconic rock star life moments, we’ll uncover your favorite thrilling soundtracks that keep you on the edge of your seat.
Whether you’re a die-hard metal fan or a lover of horror, this guide to the wildest horror musicals is a must!
*This episode contains spoilers for:
Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)
Studio 666 (2022)
The Lure (2015)
Suck (2009)
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The death of David Lynch this past week has left a gaping hole in the art community.
For this episode we delve into the life and legacy of David Lynch, the renowned auteur whose surrealist films changed the landscape of filmmaking.
Join us as we explore how this brilliant artist captured the depths of horror and Weird in his work, marking an indelible impact on cinema and beyond.
Let's remember the odd realities and bizarre narratives that captivated audiences and sparked debates.
As we navigate the collective loss of creativity, we reflect on Lynch’s unparalleled influence and what his death means for the future of artistic expression, especially in the indie creator world.
*This episode may contain spoilers for:
Eraserhead (1977)Blue Velvet (1986)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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With the unique spirit that runs through 🇨🇦 Canadian horror film and literature, we have no interest in giving that up to become the 51st state!
In this episode we explore what sets it apart from our American neighbours (yes, that's how you spell it!'). We journey through the haunting woods and eerie forest settings that are emblematic of Canadian storytelling.
Experience the rich tapestry of Canadian uniqueness that shapes horrors you won’t find south of the border, embracing themes of identity, survival, and indigenous folklore. Feel the Canadian pride as we discuss iconic films and lesser-known gems that showcase our distinctive approach to fear. Celebrate what makes Canadian horror movies unique in their own right and why our art and our identity needs to stay right where it is.
*This episode may contain spoilers for:
The Mask (1961)Black Christmas (1974)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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A Christmas Eve bonus gift from me and Susan AND the star of Mr. Sandman (2024), Hailey Schmidt.
It’s a friendly tip-of-the-hat episode to the kids in horror who bring us some of the best chills.
PLUS! It looks like Hailey is growing up to be one of us… a horror fan for the new generation!
This quick horror fix should give you a break from the X-mas insanity and then we’ll see you for full episodes in the new year.
*This episode may contain spoilers for
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars
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We’re wrapping up 2024 with a look back at some of Season 3's best moments, top episodes and a behind-the-scenes blooper reel.
Susan is in for one last 'seasonal' review and we’re both sharing our hopeful horror thoughts before this year is DEAD…
*this episode may contain spoilers for:
The Insects’ Christmas
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You're probably already absolutely sick to DEATH of hearing Christmas music everywhere you go. But did you know that some of those jingly tunes actually have morbid origins?
In this episode, learn about the deadly backstories of your (un)favourite Christmas songs AND top it off with a poem that kills you if you read it out loud!
*There are no spoilers in this episode (unless you count ruining your favourite childhood songs about Christmas... then yes, those will be spoiled for sure).
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We're talking horror with Filmmaker Matt Schmidt of Acres films about his new project, Mr.Sandman (now on Prime).
Matt has some incredible insights on horror that actually answered some of my longtime questions like:
Why do we love horror in short form? Why do we love 70s horror so damn much? And how might Hollywood have to start paying attention to good filmmaking and filmmakers if they want to actually make good movies that people will pay to see?!If you're hoping good things for horror in the new year, this episode will definitely get your spirits up!
*This episode may contain spoilers for:
Hereditary (2018)
Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021) & Frozen Empire (2024)
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🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars - Näytä enemmän
