​Seeing is believing in this day and age, that is why we put so much faith in our news stations. Being able to deliver stories along with images of what is happening give us a feeling of trust that what they are reporting is true. When we listen to the radio however, we are a bit more skeptical, even when they might have the up-to-date information before our local television station. Something has to be said about the trust that visual reinforcement can provide us, even if it may be wrong.

It is a cold and snowy morning as Grant Mazzy is driving to his new radio station. Being fired from his last job for having the ‘take no prisoners’ attitude and providing full disclosure to his listeners, he has been able to find a new home in a small town in Ontario. Not being his dream job by a long shot, Grant takes to the airwaves as he has always done in the past and delivers as much information as he can provide to his new listeners. 

Being teamed up with his new producer Sydney Briar and tech support Laurel-Ann Drummond, Grant has been put on the path to succeed in the small town, although Sydney does not approve of his tactics. Wanting her new employee to focus on the schedule laid out in front of him, Sydney is consistently in Grant’s ear telling him what to focus on in his segments or off the cuff rants. Complying with the best of his abilities, Grant keeps on track with what he is being told, but a strange story comes across the news line that will change the town of Pontypool forever. 

A hostage situation is being reported over the wire, but without being able to confirm the account with any local officials or their sources, Grant is told to let the story go. When their traffic reporter calls in with a firsthand account of what is happening and that a large herd of people are starting to attack others without reason, Grant thinks that there is something unusual going on. Thinking that his new employer is playing a trick on him, Grant seeks answers from someone outside of the radio station and has to see this growing threat that is happening.  Although no one can truly confirm what is going own, Grant and his team have to rely on everything that is being delivered to them via the wire reporting system. Needing to know if what they are reporting is really happening, a visitor arrives at the station that can help explain everything that is suddenly going on in the small town.

Without being able to see the threat outside of the radio station, this is one of the more frightening stories I have seen in a long time. Very War of the Worlds-esque, since you have to place your faith in what you are hearing and not being able to see firsthand what's going on keeps you on the edge of your seat. A fantastic story that keeps you questioning if this infection will make its way to the radio station as they are the only ones that have not yet been affected. With a majority of the action off screen you have to put more faith into what you hear, rather than what you see and have to find out for yourself if it is okay to believe in something that you cannot see. Stay Scared.

It wasn’t that long ago, that we talked at length about how season two of Tales from the Darkside was quite experimental in nature. Simply because the show’s season two premiere was in fact, a science fiction adventure, one devoid of genuine scares and terror and was instead filled with philosophical concepts and uplifting moments as well. Making it quite the outlier for certain, one that truly pushed the envelope and tried new things that this series had yet to really dive into, and what’s amazing… is that it worked. For it was a supremely human story that engaged and inspired and while it might not have fit the mold, you can never go wrong with a quality story that offers us plenty to ponder upon. 
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But what is wild, is that it wasn’t the only experimental moment that season two was going to take part in. For the writers and producers really wanted to see what could work in this anthology and sadly, the next experimental story… struggled to offer the same quality as ‘The Illusionist’. Which is a shame, because ‘Ring Around the Redhead’ had the potential to be something quite special. For it features quite the epic plot. One that revolves around a man named Billy Malone who finds himself knocking at death’s door. For he was sentenced to death for supposedly killing a longtime friend, and when we catch up with him in his final hours… he is desperate to tell a wild story that exonerates him of such crimes. One revolving around a portal to another world and a wonderful woman named Keena, from that other world, that adores him. But alas, with no proof, the electric chair awaits, leaving Billy to wonder how on earth… he can prove his innocence. 

Which is a story that could have easily leaned into some quality horror, because an evil Raatma-like being from a portal would have been as spooky as can be. But instead, this episode makes a lot of mistakes with its story. For it too is devoid of horror and quite frankly, is a little too experimental and ambitious. Simply because it fuses together a ton of genres and styles. For instance, it is very much grounded in noir with Billy’s situation and how he tells his wild tale to the reporter in question. But it is also a fantasy story, courtesy of Keena and the strange world she comes from and the strange ring she protects and of course, there are hints of science fiction thrown in as well, alongside romance and that just makes for a tale that just doesn’t know what it wants to be.

But of course, it isn’t all bad. Simply because this is a story that does captivate the imagination if only for a little while. Since you are supremely curious about where Keena comes from and what makes her world so rich and how the powers of her people work, and the acting is definitely top notch here. Courtesy of the fact that John Heard and Penelope Ann Miller star as Billy and Keena respectively, and their acting chops are on full display here, and they approach this story with full effort and honesty, and that does make for some pleasant scenes for certain. But of course, having such dynamic good and bad present here, really does leave one pondering upon one big question. Specifically… what could have made this story better?
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Well… this story just needed focus. It needed to decide which genre was dominant here and stuck with that. Because it could have done wonders with that fantasy world plot and shown us creatures and dangers untold, and that would have been incredible. As would a story that leaned harder into the villainous nature of Billy’s friend, since that could have explored the duality of man and the constant fight of good versus evil in our world, one that could have taught Keena our worth if say… the people of her world had questions about our place in the multiverse. But alas, that’s not how it worked out in the end and what we are left with is a messy story, one that is surprisingly, watchable.

Mainly because of the performances. Since they really are top notch and engage you through and through, and obviously, if you’re a hardcore fan of the series such as this writer, then watching this one is essential to the overall experience. But there are a lot of folks who would, and were, and will be perplexed by this one, simply because it really did need more fleshing out so that a true focus and high concept for the story could have been found. If anything, that’s really all there is to say about this story, which means it is time to bid farewell to this missed opportunity and turn our attention to what awaits. Which just so happens to a return to the show’s roots, with a hint of voodoo thrown in for good measure. Until next time, try to enjoy the daylight.        

One particular horror series that consistently delivers quality storytelling, is Shudder’s Slasher. Because year in and year out, this show provides us with incredible tales of terror. The kind that pays attention to what makes the genre great and features quality character development and big names to boot. But above all, every single season of this show is gory and scary and always leaves the viewer satisfied and it is top of mind today for us, because its most ambitious season to date is about to arrive on the airwaves.  
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For Shudder recently announced that April will see the debut of Slasher: Ripper, a unique tale in the series’ mythos since it takes the saga into a period of time that the series has never explored before, and it features an equally as unique plot to keep the mythos fresh and original, something the show is also known for. But you don’t have to take our word for it, since Shudder was kind enough to send over the official synopsis and release date for the series, so without further ado… here is everything we know thus far about Ripper as we inch toward the return of this delightful horror series. 

Slasher: Ripper
New Series Premieres Thursday, April 6
Slasher: Ripper takes the Slasher franchise back in time to the late 19th century and stars Eric McCormack (Will & Grace) as Basil Garvey, a charismatic tycoon whose success is only rivaled by his ruthlessness, as he oversees a city on the cusp of a new century, and a social upheaval that will see its streets run red with blood. There’s a killer stalking the mean streets, but instead of targeting the poor and downtrodden like Jack the Ripper, The Widow is meting out justice against the rich and powerful. The only person standing in the way of this killer is the newly promoted detective, Kenneth Rijkers, whose ironclad belief in justice may wind up being yet another victim of The Widow. 

One thing that we can all agree upon, is that death is something we collectively fear as human beings, and rightfully so. Because it is terrifying to know that someone we love, someone close to us, will one day expire and simply… disappear from our lives. For they mean the world to us, and they are such a huge part of our lives that a void of that magnitude is downright incomprehensible. Not to mention, the thought of not enjoying life and leaving others behind is quite chilling to say the least. Since there is so much to experience on this island Earth. But as the years roll along and we face death and its power, we eventually come to terms with it through a unique understanding that comes with life experience.
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But while the majority of us eventually accept our biological fate, there are some who never let go of this fear. For they see death as a challenge and something that must be fought and avoided, and they will stop at nothing to cheat it through various acts. For some, that involves ridiculous health care routines, the kind designed to keep their body at peak physical performance so they get the most miles out of life, while others… will take part in any and all options available to them from a medical or holistic standpoint to ward off aging. All so they can revel in keeping death at bay and maintain their status quo, and well, that’s dangerous behavior, the kind that can backfire horribly, as is explored in the next episode of Tales from the Darkside.

A feat that ‘Lifebomb’ accomplishes by introducing us to a mining tycoon/executive named Ben Martin who is at a unique stage in his life. Because despite the fact that he is inching near retirement after spending years of dedicating countless hours to his company, he is showing no signs of slowing down. A reality that bothers his wife and children since they want to see him enjoy his golden years instead of working himself into an early grave, and their concerns are indeed justified. For Ben has noticed that a heart condition is developing, and he is terrified of dying and leaving his company, yes, his company, without his dedication. But thankfully, a salesman named Harry has just the thing to help him out, the Lifebomb. A revolutionary medical device that can encase and provide life support to anyone that has it implanted their body until medical personnel can properly treat the user. Which seems to be the answer to all of Ben’s worries, until he comes to realize… that signing up for this program makes him a VIP of sorts. One that will receive incredible care needed to stay alive, regardless of how many times his Lifebomb goes off. Giving rise to a new normal that might be more than he bargained for.

Which is… a storyline that gets incredibly philosophical in nature when all is said and done. Simply because it dives into so much regarding our fears of death and the dangers of trying to cheat it. Since we basically come to learn that Ben wants to avoid it at all costs… because he has no sense of self-worth. He only knows the worth his company and money have given him and leaving that thrill behind is a terrifying prospect for him. For deep down in his subconscious he knows he hasn’t found the kind of fulfillment and peace that is necessary to accept our biological fate. And that dying without finding that will make his final moments filled with regret and terror. But his pride won’t allow him to break that cycle, making him a tragic character really, one that suffers in every way imaginable here, and suffering is the other lesson present in this tale.
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Because that’s what we do when we try and cheat what we cannot escape. For all the treatments that people undergo to stay young or super fit, isn’t anything worthwhile. It’s punishment of the body and the mind, one that keeps the fear thriving, since they know they’re pushing themselves to escape the Grim Reaper. Which makes them, just like Ben, pushing toward goals that don’t make sense out of some foolhardy belief that their quest will be different than that of every human that’s ever lived on this planet. Which is a sobering thought, one that is designed to hammer home the greatest lesson of all. In that, none of us are getting out of this life, alive, so it’s best we accept our fate and turn toward what’s really important… living in the moment. For that is how we find the peace and tranquility needed to make peace with death. For when we’ve lived a full life, full of love and memories and joy, our final moments will be filled with gratitude and the knowledge that we will live on through those we touched along the way. 

Which makes this, a powerful episode to say the least, one that deserves a round of applause for hammering that message home. However, while it is wonderful to find a life lesson here, you’re likely wondering… where are the true horror elements? Well, not to worry. Because the Lifebomb is a horrifying and terrifying device. One that preys upon our fears of enclosed spaces and being kept alive during a major health crisis in a foamy cocoon cannot be pleasant in the slightest. Not to mention, being brought back from death’s clutches time and time again, would have to take a massive toll on one’s mental health, leaving that individual in a dark and hopeless and painful place. So, that’s where the scares are hiding in this episode, and they work quite well since that final image of a pale and broken Ben, will haunt you long after this tale has come to an end, and it truly compliments a powerful story that teaches us a great deal about our greatest fear. Until next time, try to enjoy the daylight.  

It’s been a little while since we settled in to discuss The Walking Dead Universe and understandably so. For the flagship series has been laid to rest and the holidays allowed for us to process that ending and everything it meant to us. But now that the new year is upon us, the time has come to chat about this franchise once again. For while The Walking Dead has come to its end, there are still more shows and stories on the horizon set in this harrowing universe and earlier today, AMC Networks was kind enough to provide fans with a bevy of updates on what we can expect from the TWD Universe in 2023.
 
One of which, was quite the surprise. Since it was announced that the eighth season of Fear the Walking Dead will also be its final season. But while another ending is on the horizon for this franchise, new beginnings await as well since Dead City and Daryl Dixon will debut this year while Rick and Michonne’s story will start production later this year and premiere in 2024. But that is of course, a brief overview of the information provided to the press at the Television Critics’ Association Press Tour, so here are all the details on life in the world of The Walking Dead in 2023, alongside some first-look photos from the final season of Fear the Walking Dead, and a first-look clip to boot, courtesy of AMC Networks.
 
‘AMC Networks announced today premiere timing for four series in The Walking Dead Universe, along with a first look at Fear the Walking Dead’s eighth and final season. Fear will roll out in two six-episode parts, the first of which begins Sunday, May 14 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on AMC and AMC+ and return for its final six episodes later this year. New spin-off series The Walking Dead: Dead City, starring Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, will premiere in June followed by The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, led by Norman Reedus, later this year. Additionally, the spin-off starring Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira as beloved TWD characters Rick Grimes and Michonne, will go into production this year and premiere in 2024.  
 
“It’s a truly exciting year for The Walking Dead Universe, as we conclude an epic journey on Fear the Walking Dead, which became one of the most successful shows in the history of cable television. And now we are set to bring forth the next iteration of the franchise - two new and anticipated series featuring the beloved characters of Maggie, Negan and Daryl. Along with that we begin production on the next chapter in Rick and Michonne’s unforgettable love story, which we look forward to sharing next year,” said Dan McDermott, president of entertainment and AMC Studios at AMC Networks. “This next phase of our beloved Walking Dead franchise promises to engage and enthrall faithful viewers. Fans new and old will love seeing zombies walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, beneath the Eiffel Tower, inside the Louvre, and at dozens more exotic and iconic locations from around the country and world.”
 
Scott M. Gimple, chief content officer of The Walking Dead Universe said, “The Walking Dead Universe LIVES!  To conclude Fear the Walking Dead, we're thrilled to be bringing you one of its most vibrant, inventive, exciting seasons EVER, while breaking new ground with old favorites: Maggie and Negan in the madhouse of post-apocalyptic Manhattan with no one to depend on but each other…Daryl Dixon in France, a loner who cannot move through this new dangerous world alone, facing vicious enemies and never-seen-before threats of the undead. And Rick and Michonne, in a romantic saga of the dangerous road to each other, and the road they must find with each other, cornered by a new civilization and hordes of the dead. Lauren Cohan, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, showrunner Eli Jorné, Norman Reedus, showrunner David Zabel, Danai Gurira, and Andrew Lincoln are creating heart-wrenching, heart-pounding magic for the next phase of the TWDU!”
 
The eighth season of Fear begins after the conclusion of Season 7, when Morgan’s
(Lennie James) and Madison's (Kim Dickens) hopes to rescue Mo from PADRE
did not go as planned. Now, Morgan, Madison and the others they brought to the island are living under PADRE's cynical rule. With our characters demoralized and dejected, the task of reigniting belief in a better world rests with the person Morgan and Madison set out to rescue in
the first place -- Morgan's daughter, Mo.  Fear the Walking Dead stars James, Dickens, Colman Domingo, Danay Garcia, Austin Amelio, Christine Evangelista, Karen David, Jenna Elfman and Rubén Blades. It is executive produced by Gimple, Showrunners Andrew Chambliss and Ian Goldberg, Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd, Greg Nicotero, Michael Satrazemis and David Alpert and is produced by AMC Studios.
 
The Walking Dead: Dead City follows Maggie (Cohan) and Negan (Morgan) 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 addition to Cohan and Morgan, the series stars Gaius Charles, Zeljko Ivanek, Karina Ortiz, Jonathan Higginbotham and Mahina Napoleon with Gimple, Showrunner Eli Jorné, Cohan, Morgan and Brian Bockrath as executive producers.  
 
In The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Daryl (Reedus) washes ashore in France and struggles to piece together how he got there and why. The series tracks his journey across a broken but resilient France as he hopes to find a way back home. As he makes the journey, though, the connections he forms along the way complicate his ultimate plan. The series stars Reedus, Clémence Poésy and Adam Nagaitisand is executive produced by Gimple, Showrunner David Zabel, Reedus, Greg Nicotero, Angela Kang, Brian Bockrath and Daniel Percival.
 
Lincoln and Gurira reunite for a new spinoff series that will finally continue the journey of Rick Grimes and Michonne characters. This series presents an epic love story of two characters changed by a changed world. Kept apart by distance. By an unstoppable power. By the ghosts of who they were. Rick and Michonne are thrown into another world, built on a war against the dead... And ultimately, a war against the living. Can they find each other and who they were in a place and situation unlike any they've ever known before? Are they enemies? Lovers? Victims? Victors? Without each other, are they even alive -- or will they find that they, too, are the Walking Dead? Gimple serves as showrunner and executive producer alongside Lincoln and Gurira.  
 
About AMC Networks 
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is a global entertainment company known for its popular and critically acclaimed content. Its brands include targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and the anime focused HIDIVE streaming service, in addition to AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios), IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, IFC Films and RLJE Films. AMC Studios, the Company’s in-house studio, production and distribution operation, is behind some of the biggest titles and brands known to a global audience, including The Walking Dead, the Anne Rice catalog and the Agatha Christie library.  The Company also operates AMC Networks International, its international programming business, and 25/7 Media, its production services business.'

​Small towns do have a certain appeal to people, but when they are tucked away in the wilderness and isolated from the rest of the world, well, that might be a problem. Not knowing what is hiding in the forest or the lake could cause some big issues for some folks as there is really no help to be had. While this might be the ideal living situation for some people, others want to be around masses of other people, mainly because there is safety in numbers. It just might be something to think about when you are looking to make your way off the grid, as not everything that you plan for always works out.
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Digging in the local mine, paleontologists Dan and Susan have uncovered something that could change the history books. Bringing their local Doc down to take a look for himself, he sees a cave painting of a dinosaur and knows that this is the find of a lifetime. But this event is short lived as a meteor falls from the sky and hits the lake causing a rumble and the mine collapses. Needing to be able to find something to bring to the local college to keep his funding up, Dan is forced to turn his attention to the meteor and gets the local sheriff to help him out on a recovery effort.

Making their way out to the middle of the lake to find the space rock, Dan and Susan find out that it is still burning extra hot and the recovery efforts will need to be put on hold for a little while. But what they don’t know is that the hot water on the bottom of the lake is helping to hatch an old dinosaur egg that has been frozen for a millennium. Weeks go by and everyone seems to have forgotten about the hunt for the space rock, but when a rental fishing boat is brought back to dock filled with blood, Sheriff Steve Hanson is starting to wonder if there is something in the lake. Not able to locate the body of the tourist, Steve keeps his eyes and ears open, but when he starts getting calls about something strange in the lake, he does not want to believe it.

Heading down to see what his friends Arnie and Mitch are up to, Steve watches as they battle it out for dominance when it comes to this evening’s hoedown, before spotting the head of the first missing tourist. Not being able to pinpoint what could have done this to the man, Steve calls in Doc for his expertise, leaving the old man scratching his head as well. Not knowing what the town is up against, Steve tries to keep the water free and clear of any visitors, but that only lasts so long as the creature is starting to make its presence known. Seeing the sea beast for himself after a chase and shootout, Steve gives all of the information that he has to Dan and finds out that it is indeed a dinosaur that is starting to terrorize the town, but the Sheriff needs to find out a way to stop it before there is no more town left.

If you like movies that are just thrown together and have very little editing done, this is the one for you. It made me laugh so much when you can tell that the scenes are supposed to be done at night and there is sun high in the sky. Besides that, it is not that rough, even the monster looks good for the time it was put out and I was going for it, because it is a monster movie, why not cheer for the monster. Mitch and Arnie are really the characters that help to move this movie along, even when the debate takes place of what to do with their new lake monster. With a full-grown monster in a month, a boat rental service, plenty of facial hair, a small-town sheriff, proof that man walked with dinosaurs, some snow moving equipment and a plan to make all of the money in the world, it is just a tale about greed taking over common sense. I must admit that if I find a dinosaur that is newly born and not in a cage that can handle it, I am running for the hills, just not the hills that have lakes though. Stay Scared.

It is definitely safe to say that when a brand-new television show is renewed for a second season, a grand sense of comfort washes over those involved with the series, and the fans that helped it get there. For now, the fans can enjoy more of what they love to begin with and hopefully help it grow via word of mouth, and for the folks behind the scenes… it means they get to continue to work and continue to create. Which is what any artist wants really… to keep going and keep pushing themselves and that can lead to some interesting surprises in year two of that particular television show.  
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Because now that there is job security for the people involved… they can push the envelope and try new things. A move that sometimes brings forth utter brilliance, as they push the story to new heights and challenge the actors like never before. Or it can lead to some ugly results, if things are pushed too far and the show begins to not resemble what people loved in the first place. Or in the case of today’s Retro Recap, the push to try something new, and experiment with the story and see where that takes both the story and viewer, can lead to some supremely Avant Garde results. The kind that are neither terrible or stellar, just off the wall and different, as was the case with the season two premiere of Tales from the Darkside.

For ‘The Impressionist’ is a story… that is indeed experimental in nature. For this is a tale of ‘terror’ that introduces us to a hyper talented impressionist named Spiffy Remo who is at quite the crossroads in his life. Because he is on the downslope of his career, despite still being able to nail impressions in an uncanny and convincing manner and all he is hoping for is one last shot to do something special with his skill set before the sun sets on his career, and that moment it would seem… has finally arrived. For the Federal Government contacts Spiffy to ask him to help with first contact with an alien species, represented by a being named Hoffgosh. And if Spiffy can figure out how to communicate and act just like the being now locked away at a secret facility, he will achieve wonders, the kind that will lead to the betterment of mankind.  

Which is a story that is very much filled to the brim with different concepts for an anthology horror series. Simply because, we have aliens in this story. Which of course, can be quite horrific, just look at the Alien franchise. But here, Hoffgosh is nothing more than a misunderstood traveler who has a lot to say. But no one can quite understand him because… alien language, and well, that means this is an episode that is mostly devoid of scares. Sure, there’s a jump scare moment since we don’t know Hoffgosh’s loyalties and motivations until later in the episode, but that’s it, that’s… the one. Which means this is just a science fiction tale plopped into a horror series as part of an effort to experiment with what this series could do and what’s wild, is that while that sounds super weird and super terrible, it isn’t.
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In fact, this is an oddly compelling story that keeps you locked to the screen because it features a lot of humanity and a lot of musings on life, really. Because this is a story that dives deep into the minutiae of the concept of legacy. Since there are a lot of moments that ponder deeply upon how badly we want to be remembered for our talents and how we also want our skills and gifts to contribute to the betterment of mankind. Which is compelling to find here, as is, the deeper messaging regarding the importance of being open to communication with others that speak a different language than us, so we can find our common ground and grow together.

All of which makes for a Darkside episode that really doesn’t fit in with the rest of the series, and that is likely why this episode isn’t top of mind amongst the fans. But it is part of the series, and it is a bold change of pace tale, one that is enjoyable to watch and features some solid acting. Since Chuck McCann is wondrous as Spiffy and well, that’s really all there is to say about this tale, and we do indeed need to be ready to reflect upon more episodes like this. Because this wasn’t the last time that series would lean into different genres and unique ideas and it will be interesting to revisit every last one of them, to see if they have held up as well as this unique vignette. Until next time, try to enjoy the daylight. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the series premiere of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’.
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Ask anyone on the street what goes into a successful and fulfilling life, and you’ll get back some fairly similar answers. For some will speak to how chasing one’s dream and/or finding a career that nourishes the soul… is a big key to finding all of that. While others will speak to a need to finding a partner in life that fills your spirit with love, since that too… can do wonders for a person. And a great deal of people… will speak to the importance of keeping our family close to us and that we should make sure that we start one of our own. Because family provides us with a powerful connection in this life. One that makes us feel as though we belong and teaches us how to love, and what skills we have, and how to get what we want in life, and people are able to offer up these answers for one simple reason.
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In that, this is knowledge that generations of people have come to learn, courtesy of the structure of our world and our expectations of one another. Which makes us part of a grand tapestry really, one that should be celebrated. But what’s genuinely fascinating about all of this… is that we tend to forget that all of this isn’t a universal experience in this life. For some folks, were adopted or grew up in an environment that didn’t provide them with that structure and understanding. Prompting them to take a vastly different path to uncover those answers. And we cherish the majority experience so much, that we don’t talk all that much about what it is like to be a person that doesn’t fully understand the bonds of family and the lessons that provides us. But we should. For we are all the same people, and no one should feel left out or left behind, and we should know how to help them… and that is why a new series on AMC is of note. 

For Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches is a story that plunges us into the world of a woman named Rowan Fielding, who early on in ‘The Witching Hour’, seems to have it all. After all, she is a successful doctor, one who is stellar at her job, and she has a loving woman she calls mom, in her life, and goes about her day with purpose and direction. But in reality, Rowan feels as though, a great deal is missing in her life. For she is adopted and has never known her family’s lineage and not having that deep connection, and not understanding her past and her roots… leaves her searching and wanting. But a grand moment of tragedy is about to change all of that. For her adopted mother is near her end, and when she dies old secrets about the family line and truths about stunning abilities that Rowan harbors, will come to light and will change Rowan’s life forever. For it turns out that she comes from a long line of powerful witches and is about to embark on a stunning journey of discovery and power untold. 

Which is… the perfect way to explore the central theme of this story. For we quickly come to understand what it means to not know family inside and out and not know our lineage and be denied the standard experiences that life has to offer. That leads… to some fascinating and powerful moments for certain, the kind that help us learn how hard it is to be in the dark in that manner and how difficult it could be make connections and find fulfillment, regardless of success… because of what we are missing. Making this opening chapter to a grand story, a masterclass in education and discussion about a topic that is less taboo and more ignored, and the show deserves a round of applause for letting us walk in a pair of shoes we never knew were sitting by the doorstep. However, while that alone could have been enough to carry this series premiere, it has so much more to offer its audience.
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After all, this is a world filled with mysticism and magic, the kind that works here because all of it is grounded in wonderfully organic characters and concepts that never once try to outshine the fundamentals of the story. Which in turn draws you deeply into this story since you want to know more about the Mayfair family line and its power and its obvious ties to darkness and how Rowan relates to all of that. Plus, in addition to some powerful horror elements that reinvent the witch for the modern era… there just so happens to be some wonderful commentary on our modern world present here as well. Specifically, regarding how women are viewed, and how we have so much farther to go regarding equal rights, and the show also deserves credit for adding this into the story. Since this too, is a topic that isn’t talked about enough, and needs to be spotlighted in such a frank manner, so we can recognize and combat the problem in real time when we see the nonsense that Rowan goes through here, in front of us.  

If anything, all of these elements come together to provide us… with a perfect series premiere. Since this story does a wonderful job of establishing the mystical and magical universe, we are about to explore in a manner that leaves us eager to continue the journey post haste. But it also establishes that the characters and their experiences, will be just as important as exposition, since their journey toward growth and agency will teach us a great deal about the human experience and family, and it also doesn’t hurt, that stellar acting is what will send that across. With Alexandra Daddario (Rowan) leading the charge in such matters with her vulnerable and earnest performance of a woman that is indeed looking for the missing pieces in her soul, and despite the potential dangers that await her, she will stop at nothing to have what she wants and that is going to make for one stunning season of storytelling. One that is going to take us upon a moving and haunting journey through worlds quite foreign to us. Until next time.   

Caution: This article contains discussions regarding domestic abuse, domestic violence, and emotional abuse. Which may be triggering to some individuals.
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While horror has always given us something to fear through the incredible scares and monsters and gore that populate its landscape, it is also a hopeful genre. Because evil is often defeated in these tales, giving us a sense that things will be all right in the world when the right people step up to the plate. And often times, horror stories that are painfully bleak in nature, add a shred of something wondrous at the end of the story to give us hope. Not to mention, they sometimes examine the beauty of who we are when that prevails over a tough or terrifying scenario. All because, horror is designed to take us on a ride, one that is safe and secure and leaves us thinking.
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But every now and then, you run into a horror story, that rejects that. It could be because the filmmaker or writer is eager to tell a true tale of terror. One where there are no happy endings and evil wins, to really rattle the viewer or the reader in an effort to hammer home an important message. Or… they could have little belief in humanity and want to explore the darkness we carry and the true evil we are capable of. Which isn’t a bad thing by any means because horror is designed to do those things and scare us regardless. It just means we need to be ready to experience a waking nightmare when that kind of story falls into our laps, because it is going to take us on quite the unsettling and uncomfortable journey and really… that harsh reality about horror is top of mind today, simply because a movie in that vein is now available to stream on Shudder.  

For Possession is a story that features some ugly moments. All of which are brought forth through an introduction to a family in crisis. For we immediately dive into the world of Anna and Mark, a couple that are on the brink of divorce. Simply because Mark is rarely home due to his work, and Anna wants someone to love her and be there for her and their son, Bob. Which pushes this couple to try and make amends and love one another… but to no avail. Instead, an affair that Anna has been having is revealed and the pain that engenders in Mark brings out the worst in him. To the point where both parties tear each other down physically and emotionally, and Mark is so distraught over this betrayal that he hires a private investigator to truly learn how deep this affair goes and what that will uncover, will change Mark’s life for the worse, in ways he never thought possible. 

Which at first glance, appears to be a story that is grounded deeper in infidelity and broken relationships than say… something horrific and twisted. But make no mistake about it, this is no drama, this is a horror film through and through. One that truly puts domestic violence and abuse in the spotlight in a harrowing manner. Since we are privy to moments that we know happen behind closed doors between the abuser and the abused, we simply don’t acknowledge it because it is taboo in nature, and no one really wants to think about it. But this film holds nothing back regarding its investigation into how evil this behavior is and how dark it truly is and that alone, could have carried this motion picture from beginning to end and that would have explained why this movie was banned back in the year it was released, the ultra-conservative 1981.
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But there are more horrors regarding the human condition to be found in this tale. For there is a supernatural element present in this tale as well, one that stands in as the allegory for what domestic abuse does to individuals that impart it and suffer from it. Making it clear how devastating its impact can be. Plus, there are grand discussions about toxic masculinity and how male ego and pride transform into something nightmarish when toxically enabled and there are even discussions regarding the horrifying nature of co-dependency. If anything, this movie just puts… the worst parts of us on display and reminds us of what we are truly capable of and how that could genuinely destroy modern society if we were to ever let it persist. Courtesy of a fascinating ending that well, leaves one in need of a hug.

Because this is… a bleak horror film through and through. One that holds nothing back and shockingly, features zero redeemable characters. For everyone here is the dregs of humanity and that does leave one to wonder, why on earth would a person want to watch a movie in this vein? Well, the answer to that is simple, because it is quality horror. Because this is what horror does best and there is plenty of room for tales of terror that dive deep into the worst parts of us, because they too, teach. They teach us to not be like Mark and the people in his world and teach us that there are better and healthier ways to handle toxic relationships, and all it takes to teach us those lessons, is to endure one stunning film… one that will stay with you long after it’s come to an end. 

Something that is genuinely fascinating about horror, is how some of the icons in the genre, have undergone incredible reinvention in the 21st Century. Take for instance, the zombie. For this creature was lying dormant in the shadows at the turn of the century, courtesy of a bevy of films that did nothing refreshing with them. But Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later and Zack Snyder’s Dawn of the Dead remake, found a way to make them scary and relevant again, by injecting speed into their rotten legs alongside unique commentary. Which introduced a whole new generation to the wonder of the living dead, to the point where they eventually became the most popular monster on the planet, courtesy of their television takeover via The Walking Dead. Not to mention, even the vampire has found new life in this century by way of stories such as Twilight, which took the time to update the vampire’s unique mythos.
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But as briefly mentioned a moment ago, not every monster has enjoyed such a renaissance. For the werewolf still languishes in stories that have yet to really showcase its relevance to modern times and even the killer doll remains in a holding pattern. Granted, Chucky and his twisted world remain popular for certain and rightfully so, since his franchise has grown to be more inclusive in nature, but he is truly the only killer doll icon out there of note. Leaving all of us to wonder, what would it and what does it take then to properly reinvent a monster in modern times so that audiences everywhere can explore their wonder and keep their mythos alive? Well as it turns out, a brand-new horror feature from Universal Pictures may have figured out that very formula. For M3GAN is a story that reinvents and refreshes the wonder of the killer doll for a new generation.  

A feat that this story accomplishes by taking us on quite the intimate and somewhat sorrowful ride. For when we are introduced to Gemma and her niece Cady, they’re going through a difficult time. In that, Cady’s parents have perished in a horrible accident, bringing these two together in the hopes of repairing what little family unit they have left. But Gemma is a career-oriented woman, making it hard for them to find that connection. Yet oddly enough, grief does inspire Gemma to lean into her expertise as a toymaker, to try something bold and perhaps create a toy that can in fact, help bridge the gap in situations like this, prompting her to give life to M3GAN. An ultra-realistic android that can learn and adapt, with no data restrictions, to become the perfect friend that will never leave the side of its master. However, the problem inherent with that much freedom, is that M3GAN is also able to learn about the darker aspects of the human condition and how they might benefit a being that is free of consequence and conscience, giving rise to new paths forward for M3GAN when it comes to her prime directive; protect her new best friend at all costs. 

Which is… the perfect way to reinvent and re-energize this particular monster for the 21st Century. For the vast majority of killer dolls that preceded M3GAN in horror are grounded in mysticism and voodoo curses, which simply don’t have same impact in the 21st Century, with Chucky still being the outlier to that. But there is a real fear of technology that exists in this era and some genuine belief that it is up to us to create new technology responsibly and M3GAN plays into those fears and concerns wonderfully, in a manner that truly is refreshing and inventive. Because we haven’t seen anything like M3GAN before and that creates a sense of awe when she begins to indulge in evil, since it gives rise to fresh and inventive kills that fit the mold for this century and of course, make us uncomfortable along the way, as good horror stories are wont to do.  
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But where this motion picture truly shines, is in its commentary on the human condition. Because this is also a story that ponders deeply on the notion of grief and for that matter, family, and what it means to us and that is surprisingly… welcome to find here. Because it adds genuine depth to a story and a subgenre that traditionally is devoid of such matters. For now, there are emotional stakes that accompany the carnage, and it adds depth and sympathy to the characters as well. For now, we feel for them and their plight and we’re rooting for them to find a way to heal and of course, conquer the surprise evil that has come into their lives. Plus, it is a relatable theme since we’ve all dealt with grief and its power in some capacity, giving rise to a plot that finds a way to stay with you long after this story has come to an end, and that’s huge, and that, combined with those modern twists, are two key reasons why this film is so enjoyable, yet its wonder doesn’t end with its deeper musings.

Because this is also a horror story, that understands its monster and knows that in order to really sell a sassy killer doll, that at times, has some killer dance moves, is to have to fun with the story. Which is why it is also a treat, to find the humor that is present in this film. Since the jokes and purposefully awkward moments help to add levity to the heavier moments and allow for the viewer to properly enjoy the creative kills present in this tale, giving rise to an outright fun and engaging experience. One that never tries to be more than it is and manages to reinvent the killer doll genre subgenre of horror in the process. Because M3GAN truly is a brand-new killer for a brand-new age of storytelling, and her wondrous arrival in this story will undoubtedly influence the genre for years to come, and the best news of all… is that you can experience this happening today. For M3GAN is now in theaters and we certainly hope you give this motion picture a look, for it really is a refreshing and original tale of technological terror.