One particular franchise that outright excels at releasing epic trailers, is The Walking Dead Universe. After all, fans would line up for hours on end and log in accordingly when the TWD cast assembled at San Diego Comic Con, to see the new trailer for the new season. Because they were cut together so well, and they featured some engaging music, and kept us guessing as to what epic events awaited Rick Grimes and his family as they traversed a world dominated by living death. In fact, those trailers were so good, that quality was extended to every corner of the franchise.
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If anything, the wonder of trailers from this franchise is top of mind today, simply because AMC released another hot trailer from this universe. For earlier, the season 2 trailer for The Walking Dead: Dead City arrived, and it is just… amazing. Since it features some stunning, post-apocalyptic imagery, and hints at themes of redemption, corruption and the ache of confronting our past, and well, you don’t have to take our word for it. Because AMC was kind enough to share that trailer with us, so we can share it with you, so you can see what an incredible season awaits us in the Dead Apple.

‘AMC Networks released today the dark and thrilling trailer for season two of The Walking Dead: Dead City, teasing conflicted connections and ruthless new villains, all looking to gain control of the concrete jungle. Starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan as fan-favorite characters “Negan” and “Maggie,” the new season will debut Sunday, May 4 at 9:00 pm ET on AMC and AMC+.

The Walking Dead: Dead City follows the popular Maggie (Cohan) and Negan (Morgan) characters traveling into a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, long ago cut off from the mainland. In season two, in the growing war for control of New York City, Maggie and Negan find themselves trapped on opposite sides. As their paths intertwine, they come to see that the way out for both is more complicated and harrowing than they ever imagined. 
 
The series also stars Gaius Charles, Željko Ivanek, Mahina Anne Marie Napoleon, Lisa Emery, Logan Kim, Dascha Polanco and Kim Coates, amongst others.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Finale of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There comes a point in all of our lives, where we find ourselves at a strange crossroads. One where, the career path we expected ourselves to be upon, is not as clear as it once was. Because life tends to muck up the waters with the many twists and turns that head our way, and we must choose… to find a way to feel fulfilled while dealing with the very changes’ life has brought forth to us, or pivot and start a new path that brings us something new and neither choice is simple. Since both require sacrifice and will harbor a sense of longing for what once was. But that is one of the keys to happiness in this life, figuring out how to balance the reality of the world versus what we dream of.

If anything, this is top of mind today, simply because it is the crossroads that Rowan found herself dealing with in the season two finale of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. For she was sidelined early on in this tale for horrible reasons. But thanks to Sip and the Talamasca she was able to learn those reasons and that sent her down that path. For it became clear that Julien and his brood were planning something awful for Lasher. Something that would benefit them and that was why they spent half a millennium preparing the family for his return and looking for the 13th Witch to bring Lasher back to this world. But it would come at a great and insidious cost. One that did not sit right with Rowan, and the remainder of her team when it came to light.

In that, Julien’s plan all along… was to kill Lasher, and kill the very children he brought to life with Emaleth. Not to be cruel mind you, no, for Julian Mayfair always harbors a worse motive. No instead, the cruelty was just an end to a means and that means… was to make the family outright Gods of Magic. For Lasher’s blood, would strengthen his children, and their blood, in combination with their father’s… would make the Mayfair family invincible from a magic standpoint. Which in turn, put Rowan at that crossroads. Because Julien was quick to offer her a chance at this power, and to show his respect for her and share his belief that she could wield said power no problem, he freed Lark from his magical bonds and offered her a place at his side, and Rowan was at first unsure of how to proceed.

For to say yes to the plan would give her a new life. One where she would never want and never need, thanks the immense power within her veins. But it would cost her, her very soul. But on the other hand, she could stay the course and be part a unique life, where she would be half witch, and a respected doctor. And saying no to Julien would lock her into that life for all time and force her to be a protector and a hunter of the monster that now populated her grandfather’s body, and well… in the end… Rowan chose to not pivot, but to embrace life as it came and that led… to an epic showdown. One that saw her outwit Julien long enough to save those kids, before bidding her son farewell since he did not survive the fight to free those little ones.

But his legacy would live on. Since his children would grow safe and away from a monster, and that pushed her to set up this new chapter of her life. Wherein she needed to wipe Lark’s memory and save him from the pain of being pursued by evil, followed by a return to New Orleans. To successfully free her family from the Thrall and to prepare to heal the sick with Lasher’s blood, since it did give her great power, all while preparing for the biggest fight of her life. The one that will hopefully banish Julien for all time and give Cortland a real second chance at life since he did lean toward being a better man here, and that… was a brilliant way to wrap up season two of this show.

For now, Rowan has come into her own, and she is the powerful witch she wanted to be. But she also has that which will fulfill her and has figured out her path and how best to walk it, and that’s all you can ask from that moment. But also, this was an epic finale. One that revealed at long last what Julien had planned for the family and how far he was willing to get it. But for now, there is peace, and the stage is indeed set for a third season. One that will pit Rowan against a genuinely hideous monster, and hopefully we hear that season three is on the way soon. So, this series can continue to bring forth more amazing moments and more amazing growth for a character that has come so far. Until next time.

It’s been a little while since we’ve settled in to discuss The Walking Dead Universe, and with good reason. Because the magnificent series, The Ones Who Live, left us with so much to process and celebrate and the same goes for season two of Daryl Dixon. Since The Book of Carol was an equally as powerful and sentimental journey, one that offered up warm feelings galore. If anything, beautiful reunions was the name of the game in 2024 for the TWD franchise. But now that we’ve enjoyed some good vibes, it’s time to return to the land of the dead and talk once more about a far darker chapter in the franchise.
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For we are now officially inching closer to the second season of The Walking Dead: Dead City. For AMC Networks let it be known that May 4, 2025 will bring forth the season two premiere of this highly anticipated show. One that is clearly going to dive deep into the power of the past and whether or not we can fully escape it, taking us on another powerful interpersonal journey with Maggie Rhee and Negan as they navigate the horrors of the Dead Apple, and well to properly celebrate this news, AMC was kind enough to also share the opening minutes of the season two premiere. Which we of course will share with you now, to properly build up some excitement for another explosive season of storytelling from one of the finest horror franchises out there.   

‘Back in the New York groove! AMC Networks announced today that the second season of the highly anticipated The Walking Dead: Dead City will premiere Sunday, May 4 at 9pm ET/PT on AMC and AMC+. The opening minutes of the eight-episode second season, starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan as fan-favorite characters “Negan” and “Maggie,” were also released. 

The Walking Dead: Dead City follows the popular Maggie (Cohan) and Negan (Morgan) characters traveling into a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, long ago cut off from the mainland. The crumbling city is filled with the dead and denizens who have made New York City their own world full of anarchy, danger, beauty, and terror. 

In season two, in the growing war for control of Manhattan, Maggie and Negan find themselves trapped on opposite sides. As their paths intertwine, they come to see that the way out for both is more complicated and harrowing than they ever imagined.  

The series also stars Gaius Charles, Željko Ivanek, Mahina Anne Marie Napoleon, Lisa Emery, Logan Kim, Dascha Polanco and Kim Coates, amongst others. Eli Jorné, who has been a writer and co-executive producer on The Walking Dead for multiple seasons serves as showrunner and executive producer on the series, along with Scott M. Gimple, chief content officer of The Walking Dead Universe, Cohan, Morgan, Brian Bockrath, Michael Satrazemis and Colin Walsh. 

At the time of its release, Dead City’s first episode ranked as AMC+’s #1 season premiere of all time [AMCN Internal Reporting, Unique Viewers in First 60 Days of Release] and viewership grew nearly every week during S1 [AMCN Multi-Platform L+7] The Walking Dead Universe series continue to be top performers across platforms and on AMC+, each ranks among the top 10 seasons of all time in viewership [AMCN Internal Reporting Avg Streams/Ep, First 60 Days.] 

About AMC Networks 
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is home to many of the greatest stories and characters in TV and film and the premier destination for passionate and engaged fan communities around the world. The company creates and curates celebrated series and films across distinct brands and makes them available to audiences everywhere. Its portfolio includes targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and HIDIVE; cable networks AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios, which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv; and film distribution labels IFC Films and RLJE Films. The company also operates AMC Studios, its in-house studio, production and distribution operation behind acclaimed and fan-favorite originals including The Walking Dead Universe and the Anne Rice Immortal Universe; and AMC Networks International, its international programming business.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 207 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular aspect of storytelling that Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC excels at, is timing. Because that is a nuanced and difficult thing, and when done wrong it can ruin a story. But this series, it knows exactly when to drop important answers our way so that the story is enriched and engaging. Not to mention, it knows how to properly drop a surprise in our laps, and that too, relates to timing, and well, never has that been more evident than during this week’s episode of the show. Because ‘A Tangled Web’ sent all kinds of stunning answers our way and harbored some big surprises.

All of which felt right and blended into the story perfectly, and well, let’s talk about the answers to some big questions first. Since one thing we’ve all been wondering about is Lasher’s origins. For we must know if he is friend, foe or something far worse and we simply don’t know where he came from. But here, we learned, thanks to two key storylines. One of which, involved Sip. Who received his promotion after all and was given all access to the Talamasca’s secrets. Such as how they knew plenty about Lasher’s kind. That related to the fact they had Lasher’s original body, from the 1500s, and what Sip learned by touching that corpse, was reinforced by Lasher himself.

For eventually, Rowan found Moira and confronted the family in a fierce enough manner to finally be granted access to Lasher. Who spent time learning about his past and his power, and he was eager to share that with his mother, and just like that… we came to learn that he originally lived in that era, and yes, his powers were strong then and helped him to become a priest and heal the lands and find his bride. Of course, he died under suspicious circumstances, but now we know… he’s less foe than expected. Just a broken and misunderstood monster like so many classic creatures, thrust into a life he does not understand in the slightest, and all he wanted here was to share his story and have his mother at his wedding.

Which Rowan and the family did agree to attend. Which in turn brought forth preparations for the big day and while those were happening, Cortland got closer and closer to his brother and learned more about the family he barely knew and what Julien’s ultimate plan turned out to be. In that, he planned to inhabit Hamish’s body via ceremony and live again. A move that Cortland was ready to stop, which was something new for him, and that brought he and Ian into the dead zone that Julien thrived within, and that brought about a hideous surprise. In that, dear old dad really didn’t care whose body he inhabited to return to Earth. He just wanted a sucker, and Cortland was it. Since he so willingly trusted Ian’s disdain, and sadly… he was left in that space between spaces while his dad returned to assume control of his body.

That… along with a strange ritual performed on Lark and a nasty vibe in general, brought about an awkward and uncomfortable wedding. One where Lasher and Emaleth had to be restrained to keep them from giving into their connection too soon, and where… darkness descended upon Rowan, giving rise to new questions. For once the union was brought forth, Rowan was immediately threatened with harm via that ritual, and it was revealed that any action taken against Ian would result in real pain for Lark and the question at hand from that… was why? Because Rowan did as she was asked, she left things alone and now there was punishment and threats.

All of which hints at the final part of a sinister plan, and likely next week, we will learn what it is. But for now, we can celebrate a satisfying tale. For this one offered up answers through and through, and now we know, all we need to about Lasher, and how he might still be a pawn. Not to mention, Julien’s return was simply diabolical and cruel, and fitting for his brand of evil and well, truly, the stage is set for one hell of a season finale. One where Rowan will have to outwit and outperform a family steeped in the power of magics, she doesn’t even understand, and it will be interesting to see what the Scottish Mayfairs are truly up to, and whether or not Rowan can defeat them, when season two comes to a close next week. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘The Dead Thing’. It also contains discussions regarding emotional and physical abuse, which may be triggering to some individuals.

It is definitely safe to say, that each and every one of us, have some pretty specific expectations for the romantic relationship we wish to find in this life. For instance, we want someone that we are attracted to on a fundamental level. Plus, we want them to harbor a grand moral core and treat others with respect and kindness. Not to mention, we also want them to elicit an incredible spark within us. The kind that we will never experience in the presence of another and is so strong that something as simple as a casual glance or a flash of a smile when they greet us, sends our heart a flutter. But above all, we want them to love us unconditionally and treat us in a manner that makes us feel safe and secure, and we do our best to seek this out.

Which is why, it is so incredibly confusing… when we find ourselves in a toxic relationship. Because that just doesn’t make sense. But alas, on our way to the one, that person that checks every box on that list… we will date folks that are downright disgusting. That are the anthesis to that particular wish list, and everything we should avoid. Sometimes in fact, we are around them for years on end, and we endure their sour moral code, their vitriol and ugliness and the abuse they send our way in small or large does. But why? Why would so many of us, who want something better, who have great expectations for love, take the time to let that kind of person into our lives and control us? Well, it just so happens that a new horror film on Shudder, takes the time to ponder upon that in The Dead Thing.
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A feat that this story accomplishes by introducing us to Alex. A woman that leads a pretty awesome life to say the least. For she has a good job that pays well and requires little of her, giving her the ability to live life as she sees fit. But she is listless, bored, and downright lonely, and she of course, is on the apps and looking for Mister Right. But alas, no one seems to fulfill her checklist, that is… until she meets Kyle. A charming man that loves animals and that she connects with deeply. But alas, after a night of what could be called love at first sight, he ghosts Alex, and that drives her the brink of madness. To the point where she seeks him out in every way imaginable. Only… when she finds him again, she comes to realize that he harbors some hideous secrets. The kind that should scare her away, but do not. In fact, they draw her closer to him, and the trouble he is about to bring into her life.

Which truly is the perfect way to deconstruct why we find ourselves in toxic relationships and drawn to people that aren’t what we want. For the story does so in a direct manner, by first pointing out that guys like Kyle, are wolves in sheep’s clothing. That emit a sense of wonder and good to those eager to find it, to latch on and cause all kinds of trouble. But of course, that doesn’t explain why someone who is good would let that kind of person stick around, and the film explores that too. By pointing out, there is a thrill that comes from dating someone drowning in red flags. Plus, their issues, leave us to wonder if we can repair the damage we see before us and enhance the fundamental connection that exists for reasons, we might not be ready to face in that moment. Such as the fact that when we tend to date people like Kyle, our self-esteem is not where it needs to be, or we’ve struggled enough with dating to think this is all we can do.
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But that just leads to a grand lesson in this film, one that speaks to how pushing to get what we truly deserve from a relationship, saves us from the real disaster that comes from these relationships and that… is where the horror elements come into play. Since we see, the darkest aspect of abusers come to life in this story and the joy they indulge in, when they unleash the psychological and physical damage that fulfills something hideous within them. Which leads to some disgusting moments in this story that showcase what abusers and toxic individuals are capable of when they feel free to finally be themselves and that… is downright terrifying. In fact, be warned, there are segments of this story that are outright unsettling to watch and feel a little too real.

However, great horror, doesn’t hold back, and that makes this… a great horror feature. Because it is unrelenting in its exploration of why toxic relationships persist in our world, and why we get into them, and how that doesn’t make us failures, or bad… just people. People that make a poor choice that we eventually learn from, and all of that is embedded into a brilliant script from Elric Kane and Webb Wilcoxen, and it comes to life in a powerful manner through Kane’s direction of Blu Hunt (Alex) and Ben Smith-Petersen (Kyle). Since they give life to characters that feel stunningly real, and all these elements make this a must-see movie. Because this is that rare horror film that truly reflects the toughest parts of life, in the boldest and bravest manner possible, to task its audience to be objective and patient when it seems our one true love, that ‘too perfect’ individual, comes into our lives.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 206 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Now that we’ve all had time to properly digest the previous episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches, courtesy of the show’s Super Bowl XLI break, it’s safe to say… that episode left us with more questions than answers. Simply because Julien’s cryptic words and actions made it clear that something bigger was at play, something sinister and something unique and well, we simply had to know what exactly. Because it really did make it seem as though Julien is the villain here and has been playing some kind of horrific long game and thankfully, last night’s episode of the show offered up some answers at last by filling us in on part of his grandiose plan.

But before we dive too deeply into that, we do need to take a moment and celebrate a big moment for Sip in ‘Michaelmas’. For he finally arrived at Talamasca HQ in Amsterdam, wherein we learned that because of Albrecht’s betrayal and the chaos that Daniel Malloy brought forth with his novel, Interview with the Vampire, Sip’s charges were dropped, and he was invited to help bring in Lasher. An invitation he happily declined. Because he correctly pointed out that the Talamasca treated him terribly and constantly kept him from the truth, and if they really wanted his help, the time had come to make him the head of the New Orleans Office, and fill him in. A move that didn’t receive resolution here, but did not need to. Because seeing Sip stand up for himself in this manner, was just plain magical and informed both us and the Talamasca of his strength and determination to do things right.
 
However, while that was indeed delightful, and charming to see, the rest of the story… offered up some sour and scary moments and some of the answers we seek. For the Mayfair team arrived in Scotland and quickly found their way into the town where they expected to find Lasher, and answers. But instead… all they encountered was chaos and roadblocks. For the strange nature of this town, and the celebration that shared the namesake of this episode, made it impossible for anyone to think straight or find focus. To make matters worse, the very pub that Julien pulled Rowan into, seemingly claimed Moira since she outright disappeared from the group’s sight, and before the team could rescue her and use her talents, they were whisked away to the family castle and fed more distractions with truth peppered in for good measure.

​For Ian was gracious enough to offer up drinks and comfort to the family, but little else. But when pressed he finally revealed that first and foremost, he had no plans to help Rowan get the blood she needed. Because he simply did not trust her, and did not trust her brood. For he expected them to interrupt the impending wedding of Lasher and his bride, and he could not stand for that. Which took Rowan off guard, since she and the rest of her team knew nothing about a wedding, nor did she expect such resistance, and she most certainly didn’t believe what Ian said about Lasher being a groom. But rather than stand by and let Ian simply have his way, she pressed and fought and pushed the right buttons to try and get to Moira and Lasher. Whom she both believed were stashed beneath the castle’s many tunnels, as Ian’s son inferred. But alas, despite her best efforts to be bold here and take the upper hand, Ian found a way to maintain control and what was shocking, aside from the fleshy lengths he went to, to maintain control, was that everything he told Rowan about Lasher’s union, was the truth.
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Because he spoke to how Lasher and his bride were beings known as Taltos. Powerful creatures that could give and take life, and well… that does explain how Lasher is able to rip women to shreds internally and well, to further hammer home his power of Lasher’s brood, we met his bride. Who managed to enchant Lasher in the same manner that Mayfair women enchant him, and well… that meeting, and Ian’s musings informed us that Julien had been planning this union for ages on end. But not everyone was excited about it, for Lasher wanted no part of it, out of the belief he would harm his bride. But it would seem he has no choice in the manner, since he was whisked away with the expectation, he would wed her and it would seem that nothing will stop that union thanks to Ian. But ominous nature aside, it was nice to finally learn what Lasher is and why it’s been so important to capture him. 

Yet, as this series is wont to do, it basically answered our questions, with more questions. Since there remains one big question regarding this union. Specifically, the ‘why’ behind it. Because while Ian pitched the whole thing as a beautiful rekindling of a species that mankind has somehow hunted to near extinction, that all sounds like nonsense. Because we know the power that Lasher yields, and if harnessed right, he seems to be invincible, and also… Julien Mayfair wouldn’t just marry off two mystical beings to enjoy the majesty of love. He has a plan, something to benefit him and benefit the family since that’s how he works, quid pro quo, and well, we simply must wait to learn the why. But while we do, we can applaud one engaging tale. One that kept us captivated and, on our toes, since the family stepped into a lion’s den of sorts, and it will be interesting to see how Rowan gets out of the mess she’s currently in, come next week. Until then.

If there is one unfortunate truth that accompanies the pursuit of our dreams, it would have to be that said pursuit… is not always a pleasant journey. Because sometimes, it takes far longer than we expected to finally hit it big and that can be a tough time as we patiently wait for the big green light to tell us we’ve made it. Not to mention, it is a tough path filled with failures untold and we hear the word ‘no’ more often than we care to. But something about this, calls to us, and drives us forward since we know it will give us a peace we’ve never known before, so we chase after it with gusto, and that can be problematic for some. 
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Because this journey does bring people to their knees and inspires desperation. Which can push them to take a paycheck in that field that they regret because the end result did not align with their morals or their dreams in the right ways. Or they tie themselves to someone enigmatic, that is eager to use them and abuse them in the hopes of pushing their own agenda forward. Or… worst case scenario, something awful happens in the pursuit. An act that creates incredible emotional devastation and prompts one to quit and live with regret. All because the journey can be so rough and tumble, and well, the dark side of the pursuit of our dreams is top of mind today, simply because it is explored in a unique manner in a new film on Shudder entitled, Dark Match.

Which is a story that introduces us to a small group of wrestlers that are in a tough place. Because despite the fact that they put on a great show, are led by a wrestling legend and harbor amazing talent… they simply cannot hit the big time or find a break. They just move from event to event, hoping the big break awaits and they’ve been at it so long, that tension is rising, and desperation is settling in. Which prompts their leader, ‘Mean’ Joe Lean, to take on a lucrative dark match. One that is led by an echo from Joe’s past, and while at first… this appears to be a gig that will solve their financial problems, it doesn’t take long for the troupe to learn that their desperation has prompted them to sign a deal with the devil. In the literal sense. For Joe’s mysterious foe, The Prophet, wants this troupe to die in the name of darkness so true evil can walk the Earth, and now it will be up to a ragtag bunch of dreamers… to save the world.

Which really is the perfect way to explore the dark side of the dream, and the desperation people sometimes find when they are eager to get to the top as quickly as possible, and of course… the dangers that accompany that. Because we really do see how badly Joe’s group want success, want to be in lights, and how badly it hurts them to not be there, to fight for a paycheck and a meal and that adds an interesting depth to this film. Since horror rarely looks at this aspect of the human condition, and it sells it and explores it well. Since we feel for this troupe, we want to see them succeed and we happen to learn from their plight. Since it teaches us to stay the course, wait for our time and do what we must to survive until our number is called… so we don’t get caught up in something we will regret or will set us back.
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But of course, while that makes for a powerful message and powerful story, this is still a horror film, and this movie delivers on that front in the most epic manner imaginable. Simply because the killing that Prophet inspires, brings about a gory waterfall of blood and guts. The kind that is both sensational and uncomfortable and you simply cannot go wrong with a splatter fueled story that also features some hardcore wrestling and some genuinely eerie moments. Since Prophet’s special brand of evil adds a unique chill to the story for certain and what’s amazing… is that this story still has so much to offer the audience. 

Simply because, it also features some epic acting, courtesy of some well-known and beloved actors. For Prophet is played by none other than wrestling legend, Chris Jericho, and he relishes in the role and gives it life in a fun and dynamic manner. And he is wonderfully counterbalanced by Steven Ogg’s turn as Joe Lean. Since Steven slips into the role of desperate dreamer with a sense of realism that really grounds the story. One that really is must-see. Because this one, is just a blast through and through. Courtesy of an engaging and relatable story, some fine splatter and just a general sense of fun that makes sure to entertain, as much as it teaches us to prepare for tough times, when we are shooting for the stars. So, we can come through, unscathed.

It really is quite amazing what’s happening within the horror genre at the moment. Because not only is it enjoying its reign as one of the top genres out there, but it is making great efforts to bring the genre back to its roots and help a new generation of fans understand what makes it so great and so worth our while. Which is why we are seeing zombie stories return to a sense of bleakness and devastation through The Walking Dead franchise, and why so many creatives are working hard to make the vampire and the werewolf and other such creatures so scary through deconstructive films that capture the essence of the character and the scare. To just hammer home, this is a glorious world that will take your breath away and let you process evil untold before returning you home, safe and sound.
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In fact, this is so wondrous that it is becoming clear that this back-to-basics approach should be applied to the various sub genres of the horror world as well to spice them up. In fact, one that would benefit from a refresh, is the slasher film. For while the slasher is a genuine staple that has enchanted horror fans for ages on end, through monsters that are both mystical and demented. It is indeed in need of a facelift. For slashers are mired in tropes and familiar situations that any audience member, be them salty veterans or newcomers can call out. But thankfully, there are creatives that have recognized that and are ready to apply that approach, and the slasher’s most significant refresh has arrived at last, in the form of the new horror comedy, Heart Eyes.

Which is a film that reinvents the slasher by way of a magnificent plot. One that introduces us to a marketing guru named Ally, who is going through a tough time in her life. Because she just endured a nasty breakup and her sour feelings toward love, inspires her to create an ad campaign with a dark romance theme, that airs at a time of crisis. For the past couple of years have brought about a dark Valentine’s Day for the nation. Courtesy of the Heart Eyes Killer. A serial killer that attacks couples on that special day, and that brings a PR hell storm down upon her. One that requires her to work with a fixer named Jay. Whom she feels an instant draw to, but she denies her heart what it wants. In an effort to heal. But their chemistry in undeniable and the Heart Eyes Killer is in their town and has noticed their spark and is now eager to snuff it out. A decision that will make Valentine’s Day a stunning fight for survival for this unlucky duo.

Which is… the perfect way to refresh this type of story and reinvent it. Courtesy of the fact, that the plot allows for incredible commentary to come into play. Because this story clearly has a lot to say about modern dating and our interesting views on love and romance, and that really is something we don’t see all that often in slasher films. Since messaging really isn’t their forte, and adding commentary here really does refresh the slasher well, as do the other elements present here. Such as the wondrous use of genre fusion since there elements of romantic comedies to be found here, and comedy in general and all of that just brings forth a slasher story that feels new and is exciting, and it still has so much to offer the audience.
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Simply because, it takes the many tropes and cliché we find in this type of film and flips them upside down. Which leads to all kinds of amazing surprises and moments that subvert expectations, and that only adds to the refreshing nature of this feature. But make no mistake about it, while this is a smarter slasher film than we are used to, one that also features some amazing updates to this style of story, it is still at its core a good old fashioned slasher flick, and it delivers on that front in bloody spades. For the Heart Eyes Killer is an inventive and twisted monster, one that enjoys spilling as much blood as possible, and leaving buckets of gore lying about post kill. Which leads to some solid splatter in this feature, and some stunning kills that that will indeed prompt some to cry out in surprise.

If anything, all of these elements give rise to an absolutely brilliant horror film. Because this one really does reinvent the slasher and update it for a new generation, and to boot, it even features some top-level acting. For Olivia Holt (Abby) and Mason Gooding (Jay) are simply sublime and land every joke and land every moment with ease. Not to mention, Jordana Brewster and Devon Sawa are magnificent as Detectives Shaw and Hobbs (yes, you read that right) and help to add gravitas to this story with their sheer presence as genre legends. All of which makes for a must-see feature. For this one has it all really, courtesy of some great writing and a bold decision to refresh one of horrors most beloved subgenres, and it would be no surprise if this movie kicks off a slasher renaissance since it has showcased, the slasher’s true potential.

Truly, one of the best surprises that the horror genre sent our way in 2024, was The Creep Tapes on Shudder. Simply because… we finally enjoyed more from the world of Peachfuzz, and not only did the series pick up right where the last film left off… but it went to new and bold places along the way. Since we received some hints as to what gave rise to Peachfuzz and his many names, and inspires the horrible machinations he takes part in. Plus, we learned about his youth and his family life and how that helped to contribute to his bloodthirsty nature.
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Not to mention, Mark Duplass just let loose an actor and provided us with some stunning moments, especially in the show’s fifth episode. All of which left us hopeful for more of this show; to learn more about this man and be treated to more of Mark’s work, and the many surprises this series and this franchise sends our way and well, we received some great news regarding our wishes today. For earlier, Shudder let it be known that The Creep Tapes is receiving a second season, and that’s just wonderful news. Because this show is simply refreshing and phenomenal and it will be a treat to return to this twisted world, and to properly celebrate this news, here are all the details on the show’s second season order, courtesy of Shudder.  

‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thriller and the supernatural, announced today the renewal of its found footage horror series The Creep Tapes, from writers and executive producers Mark Duplass and Patrick Brice, for a second season of six episodes. Hailed as “a killer expansion of a found-footage franchise” (A.V. Club) and a “sinister mix of comedy, cringe and sheer dread” (Dread Central), the first episodic installment of the cult favorite CREEP franchise was the most watched Shudder show of all time on AMC+ and the strongest November release in Shudder history, driving record subscriber growth and social media engagement. Season two of the Shudder Original Series will debut later this year on Shudder and AMC+.
 
Season two will continue to unravel the mind of this secluded serial killer (Duplass) who lures videographers into his world with the promise of a paid job documenting his life. Unfortunately, as the tape rolls, the killer’s questionable intentions surface with his increasingly odd behavior and the victims will learn they may have made a deadly mistake.
 
Said Mark Duplass, “We made the first season of The Creep Tapes completely independently, so we were able to truly and unabashedly get our freak on. The fact that so many of you watched it that Shudder not only asked us for more but asked us to go even further this time around? That's just… really, really unsettling. And terrifically exciting.”
 
Said Patrick Brice, “We are beyond delighted at the opportunity to bring audiences fresh kills from the closet in a second season of The Creep Tapes! For the series to have found such a rabid audience at Shudder is an absolute dream. It seems ridiculous to apply the term 'labor of love' to such an insane franchise, but it's the truth. We can't wait to dive back in.”
 
Said Courtney Thomasma, EVP of streaming for AMC Networks, “We can’t wait to see where Mark and Patrick will take this story next as we continue to grow this fan-favorite franchise across both Shudder and AMC+.  We’re already preparing ourselves for more psychological discomfort as a new season’s worth of devious and wonderfully weird Peachfuzz antics unfold.”
 
The Creep Tapes is produced by Duplass Brothers Productions and Shudder. Executive producers include series star Duplass and Patrick Brice who both also serve as co-writers, with Brice directing all episodes. Additional Executive Producers include Mel Eslyn, Jay Duplass and Chris Donlon, and Shuli Harel serves as co-executive producer.
 
About Shudder 
AMC Networks’ Shudder stands as the leading curatorial voice and cultural destination for genre entertainment, delivering an unparalleled selection of horror, thrillers, and the supernatural. With an ever-expanding library of films, TV series, and exclusive Originals, Shudder is accessible across most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. 
  
Shudder releases approximately thirty films per year, and has redefined genre streaming with a slate of groundbreaking and critically acclaimed titles, including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s Golden Globe-nominated LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna’s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest installment in the V/H/S franchise. Shudder also boasts fan-favorite series such as the two-time Emmy Award-nominated THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS. Notable 2024 releases include Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala’s THE DEVIL’S BATH, Chris Nash’s IN A VIOLENT NATURE, Sébastien Vaniček’s INFESTED, Colin and Cameron Cairnes’ LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL, Damian McCarthy’s ODDITY, and Robert Morgan’s STOPMOTION. 
 
About Duplass Brothers Productions
Under their banner Duplass Brothers Productions (DBP), award-winning filmmakers Mark Duplass, Jay Duplass and Mel Eslyn create original projects for film, television, and digital media.  In television, DBP is under a first-look deal with HBO which has yielded the hit series ROOM 104, TOGETHERNESS, and the HBO animated series ANIMALS.  Most recently they produced HBO's award-winning show SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE, starring Bridget Everett which was named an AFI TV Program of the Year in its first season, won a Peabody Award in its second, and is nominated for a WGA award and two Critics Choice awards in its third and final season.
 
In film, Mark and Jay first gained recognition in the early 2000’s for writing, directing and producing several acclaimed independent and studio films, including THE PUFFY CHAIR, BAGHEAD, CYRUS, and JEFF, WHO LIVES AT HOME.  The teams' numerous feature film credits in the decades following have included THE ONE I LOVE, TANGERINE, SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED, CREEP (1 & 2), THE OVERNIGHT, 7 DAYS, OUTSIDE IN, LANGUAGE LESSONS and THE SKELETON TWINS.  More recently they released Eslyn's feature directorial debut BIOSPHERE starring Sterling K. Brown alongside Mark, to much acclaim, as well as Morrisa Maltz's JAZZY which they produced with Lily Gladstone.
The team frequently collaborates with the documentary filmmaker Sam Jones', most recently on his HBO features TONY HAWK: UNTIL THE WHEELS FALL OFF for which they won the Producers Guild of America Award for Outstanding Sports Program, and JASON ISBELL: RUNNING WITH OUR EYES CLOSED.  They also produced the award-winning documentary NOT GOING QUIETLY, which follows the activist and lawyer Ady Barkan as he embarks on a national campaign for healthcare reform.  Their documentary LAST STOP LARRIMAH aired on HBO in the states and Netflix internationally, immediately becoming Australia's #3rd most watched show.
 
DBP is also active in the docuseries television space, best known for producing Netflix’s WILD WILD COUNTRY, winner of the Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series in 2018.  Additionally, the team produced the critically acclaimed series THE LADY AND THE DALE on HBO, Hulu's SASQUATCH and OUT THERE: CRIMES OF THE PARANORMAL, and Netflix’s popular AMERICAN CONSPIRACY: THE OCTOPUS MURDERS to name a few. 
 
Most recently Eslyn and Mark co-created the series PENELOPE on Netflix, which landed in the Top 10 Most Watched TV Shows in its first week, followed by a Spirit Award nomination for the lead actress Megan Stott.  The team also released their latest installment of their CREEP franchise, the episodic THE CREEP TAPES, which in its first week became the #2 trending title on AMC+.  This spring Jay will mark his return to feature directing with 2 films, THE BALTIMORONS and SEE YOU WHEN I SEE YOU.  Other upcoming releases include, Nnamdi Asomugha's THE KNIFE which will hit theaters later this year, and Katie Aselton's MAGIC HOUR which is slated to premiere at 2025's SXSW Film Festival.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Within every family, is that one family member that everyone gossips about. Because they are the toxic one, the one who causes all the trouble and all the strife. Sometimes they’re someone we see on a regular basis, and we have to bite our tongue regarding what we’ve heard, while others… died long ago. But they were so awful and so toxic that they haunt the family to this day, and they are the ones we are curious about. Because we simply want to know what they were like, how toxic they turned out to be and we wonder how we would handle them if we ever had the chance to confront them and their toxic nonsense. But alas, such a confrontation is but a fantasy.

One however, that we can sometimes explore in the world of fiction. Because in stories, anything can happen and curiosities can be explored and well, this particular pondering just so happened to be showcased in the next episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC. For ‘Julien’s Victrola’ picked up immediately after the end of last week’s episode. Wherein Rowan stepped into Julien Mayfair’s weird spirit room and well, at first… it seemed as though this voyage was going to be a genuine waste of time. Because the Julien present here, was a far cry from what Cortland encountered. For he was frail, confused and very, very sleepy. Leaving Rowan to wonder if by chance some measure of projection applied in this realm, since she thought little of him, making this the end result. So, she opted to head home quick.

Only to learn… that Julien was in fact, a formidable opponent. For that was but a ruse, one designed to split Rowan into two halves. Where her emotional self, returned to Earth, and her intellect stayed in his realm. To in part, mess with her, but also to see if she could match wits with him, impress him, and learn the truth about Lasher and his final destination. Which led to some fascinating moments in New Orleans. Wherein Moira and Cortland worked to unlock his memories since Emotional Rowan did establish that Scotland was involved in this, and Cortland realized he was there long ago. Which let us learn about him like never before, since that journey showcased the abuse, he suffered at the hands of his father. The kind related to him not being evil enough, really, to make the Mayfair line proud.

Not to mention, Emotional Rowan opened herself up to Lark like never before. Because he came by to check on her and her new powers since the genetic coding, he pulled, showed something was off about her. Which led to a full confession from E-Rowan about her powers, about Lasher and about how much she loved Lark. To the point where she made it clear she wanted him to be at her side from now on, including when the family headed to Scotland. Once they figured out where to go, exactly. Plus, she even protected him when the moment was right, and it was just fascinating to see this half of Rowan since she has, rightfully, not put much of her emotions on display in this tale because of the chaos that’s surrounded her.

But while that all happened in the Big Easy, Intellectual-Rowan did indeed lock into a battle of wits with Julien Mayfair. For he informed her that she had forty minutes to live without both halves of her mind in one place, and that had she paid him proper tribute, this would not have happened. Plus, he teased her often and worked to distract her. Making him supremely cruel in a manner we don’t often see in horror. Since his actions were less about guts and gore and immense power, and more about psychological warfare and exploitation of one’s emotional weakness. Something only a true abuser would lean upon. But thankfully… I-Rowan knew what she was up against, and she gave as good as she got, which surprised Julien.
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Because he did not expect any clap back and was deeply uncomfortable with the fact that she was able to match him and figure things out, and that made for some equally as unsettling moments for Julien. Since I-Rowan stunned him often with her musings and understanding of the situation, and she slowly wore him down and began to figure out that there was a second Mayfair line in Scotland. One that was deemed a protector of Lasher. Plus, she also came to learn how much Julien enjoyed power in real life and used the afterlife to grasp to tastes of it and used that to her advantage as well. But all that cat and mouse aside, Intellectual-Rowan eventually win the day, and her emotional half pulled her out of that madness, shortly after she received the exact location of Lasher’s whereabouts.

Not a moment too soon for that matter. Because we did see that Albrecht brought him to Cortland’s brother, Ian, across the pond, and we quickly came to learn… that Ian has dark plans for Lasher. For despite offering him kindness and anything he could want for in this life, he also locked him in a room and made sure to brutally murder Albrecht. Making it clear that whatever father wanted, father is going to get, when it comes to Lasher, and that helped to close out, the finest episode of this series to date. One that featured, a lovely little game of ‘what if?’ Wherein we came to learn that chatting with a long-gone toxic family member, could be quite the beneficial sparring match, one that we would win if we kept a level head in the battle.

But this episode also made sure, to catapult this story forward in an epic manner. By showcasing that the real villain of the story is indeed Julien and his machinations, and clearly… everyone is his pawn. Not to mention, let’s make sure we give Ted Levine a round of applause for putting forth an EPIC performance in this tale. For he was just brilliant, plain and simple, and offered up a calculated and frustrated madness from Juilen, and hopefully we get more Julien before the season ends. But while we wait, we can applaud one amazing episode. One that took us on an incredible ride and set the stage for more incredible adventures. For it would seem that Rowan and the Mayfair family are headed to Scotland to save Lasher, Jojo, and Daphne and stop Julien’s plans once and for all. Until next time.