Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Horror’s Greatest’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular aspect that we don’t talk about enough when it comes to visual storytelling, is the importance of having the right soundtrack. Because fifty percent of the experience when it comes to film and television is impacted by the sounds we hear, especially in horror. For instance, if Freddy Krueger’s glove made a squeaky noise when he stabbed a teenager or if a laugh track played when a Romero zombie opened up the abdomen of an unfortunate soul… we would be taken right out of the story. We need that hideous squelching noise, and we also need quality music to accompany some of those scenes.

Because a musical sting lets us know that something ominous awaits or that the villain is but inches away from causing great harm. Not to mention, music can outright set the mood, set a scene and take us on an emotional journey as it plays out alongside the horror. If anything, the importance of sound editing, and film scoring is top of mind today because it was featured in the next episode of Horror’s Greatest on Shudder. In fact, ‘Film Scores’ was nothing short of a masterclass lesson in how both of those elements work and how closely they tie into the experience and it brought about such lessons by way of a grand and sweeping look at music and sound editing in the genre.

Wherein we came to learn that in many ways… horror film scores adapt with the times. For the grandiose golden era/dawn of horror, featured scores that matched the era they were a part of. Since they were bombastic and massive and as powerful as the monsters they revealed. Which gave way to more subtle scoring as the years carried along. The kind that worked tightly with the script and the overall vibe the director wanted to bring forth… so that the score felt organic. Something audiences craved and still crave. Now for a great example of how that works, look no further than the score from Jaws. Since that used those simple notes to inform us that something was lurking beneath the waters. Something big, something ominous. Which made the arrival of the shark all the more impactful in nature.

Not to mention, a score can just… enhance the emotional aspect of the story. As evidenced by The Omen. Because everything that Jerry Goldsmith recorded has a real gothic vibe to it, one that is ominous and evil and utterly horrifying as it becomes clear that Damien is something more to the fate of the world. All courtesy of a score that feels as though a church sermon has gone wrong. Not to mention, a score when done right, can truly evoke an emotion, which is what the score for The Shining manages to accomplish. Because the use of various stock scores in addition to the minimalist score from Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind creates a jarring experience. One that evokes a sense of unease and worry, that only adds to the atmosphere of fear Stanley Kubrick worked to bring forth.

As for what the story had to say about sound editing, it simply corrected pointed out what we covered earlier, that horror tends to perfectly land the right noise, the right squelch, to really sell the ick, and well, all of the explorations brought forth a fascinating chapter in this journey. Because it truly showcased an aspect of film and television that deserves more recognition. Because music is critical to the story, as is the right sound mix and this particular tale really did offer up newfound appreciation for the scores we know. Since now we properly understand the care that went into crafting musical notes that are as terrifying as the monsters that appear on the screen. Until next time.

We are taught from a supremely early age, that looks and appearances are supremely unimportant in the grand scheme of things. Because what truly matters is the person we become, the inner beauty we display and of course… what we contribute to the world. So, to worry about the clothes we wear, the scuffs on our face or even markings that we are born with… is silly to say the least, and we of course… hold to that advice and head out into the world with our head held high. Because we are ready to display the person we are, and all that we can offer the world, and it doesn’t take long for us to learn… that while this lesson has merit, few in the world listen to it or follow it in the slightest.
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For grade school is filled to the brim with people who worry about image overall and are willing to bully folks who don’t fit the mold they so expect. Not to mention, that immature nonsense doesn’t end when we leave high school and college. For so many hold onto it and believe it matters most and well, it’s toxic thinking for certain. The kind that does in fact, break people along the way. Because of the undue pressure it puts upon them, and they will of course… go to extremes to make sure they fit in. Because despite that lesson, folks eventually believe it to be true that image matters above all else. If anything, this stark reality and the ugliness that comes from it is top of mind today, simply because it is put on display in stunning detail in a new feature on Shudder entitled, Grafted.

Which is a story that introduces us to a brilliant orphan named Wei who has come to live with an exchange family in the hopes of starting over in life. For she has suffered great loss and bounced around, and all she wants now is to find a little acceptance, a little peace and continue her father’s work. Which involved figuring out how to graft skin so that burn victims, and anyone concerned about their appearance from other disfiguring injuries or markings that displease them… can enjoy a sense of self-worth in a culture that tends to stare. Work that her father employed because of his own port-wine birthmark, one that Wei has as well. But while at first it seems that she might be able to make new friends and find the agency she needs for her work, it doesn’t take long for popularity contests and concerns about image to pummel her psyche and that’s bad news for those involved. For Wei is at her wits end emotionally and they will push her over the line, wherein she will do whatever she must to complete her work… and fit in.

Which is… the perfect way to explore those central themes and offer up a subtle lesson. For it does present the world as it is, a place where image and standing matters, and that may be shocking to see, but that’s the point. To inform us that the world is not quite as we see it, and it most certainly sees us in a specific light topically, and that allows for us… to really see what kind of a hideous impact that worldview has upon others. Since we watch Wei, basically collapse before our eyes in real time. Since she goes from hopeful outsider, one willing to invite others into her heart to prove reality wrong, to a broken soul. One that cannot stand the cruelty imparted upon her, to the point where she outright snaps and commits to hideous acts. Which brings forth a bleak and devastating story, one that does the horror genre proud.
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Simply because, with there being a plot thread involving skin grafting, this movie quickly and easily slips into the realm of body horror. Courtesy of moments that are graphic and gory and outright unsettling. Mainly because of how far Wei is willing to go to fit in, which in this story involves literally robbing the face of those who push her too far. Which gives rise to ooey and gooey visuals that would make David Cronenberg wince with disgust, and of course… we are very much privy to the horrors of the human psyche in this story as well. Since Wei does showcase the hideous darkness, we carry, and what it can accomplish when unleashed upon the world, and all of these elements blend together to provide us with a stunningly brilliant horror film, one that harbors incredible depth, and as mentioned… a lesson.

In that people are more than their clothes or their appearances. But that for some reason… we hold to the stupid stuff, and we have to stop with that. Because we are causing harm, we are imparting cruelty and all it would take to change it… is just a moment of kindness. A smidge of acceptance and that makes this a fascinating must-see feature. One that has everything a horror fan could ask for. Since it has depth, meaning, solid scares and buckets of gore, and a fine lesson that we should all hold to. And hopefully this movie motivates everyone… to just take a minute and offer acceptance to a stranger on any given day. Because who knows, if we all just offered up a little bit of that in our travels, maybe a day will come quickly where that age lesson holds weight and becomes a standard.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular truth that none of us want to admit to or face in this life, is that we are going to make some seriously stupid mistakes during our time on this Earth. Simply because we are flawed creatures that would like to make the right call in a difficult moment. But alas, we will stumble, and we will cause some measure of harm either emotionally or physically to others via our folly, and well, what matters more in that situation is what we do following our mistake. For we have a choice in that moment, to either just move on and ignore the fallout, and potentially create new problems… or we can own up and do our best to repair the damage we’ve done.

If anything, that particular truth is top of mind today, simply because it was put front and center in the next episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC. For ‘Double Helix’ picked up the morning after the disastrous party at the Mayfair estate wherein… Rowan had to face the reality that not killing Lasher was quite the mistake. One that caused great harm to so many and left the family in tatters. After all, there were family members now stuck between worlds within the house, Mayfair women were dead, and the family was ready to change out Rowan’s standing as the top Mayfair. Which meant, she had that choice in front of her, and made the call to set things right, after a messy morning with Lark. Where they pondered upon the past and where Rowan did her best to chase him off to deal with this, and once she was free of his questions, she got to work on making things right.

A process that started with trying to get Lasher back from the Talamasca. Which meant that her and Moira were going to be joined at the hip for a bit, and well… the Talamasca portion of her plans, floundered badly. Mainly because, Sip came to learn that Albrecht and Lasher had outright disappeared. In fact, the transport vehicle that should have brought Lasher to a holding facility was abandoned on the side of the road and there were minimal clues to be found there… or at the office. In fact, the only clue available to him of note was a burned scrap of paper that featured the word ‘Taltos’. All of which left Sip disappointed and angry. Disappointed because he could offer Moira and Rowan no help, and angry because he was set to take the fall for all of this. Since the Amsterdam chapter of the Talamasca arrived and blamed him for everything and planned to bring him back to that office for interrogation.

That meant, in order for Rowan to set things right, she was going to have to take a different route… and that forced her and Moira to dig deeper into the family mythos and try to figure out who might be able to help them. After a quick and awkward conversation with Cortland, it became clear… that Julien Mayfair was the key to everything. For he was the one that set out to establish Lasher as the supposed savior of the family, through something he called ‘The Great Work’, and he was the one who set up partnerships with the Talamasca. And of course, since this world was open to the spirit one, there was a real chance that they could communicate with Julien and learn all they needed to from it. They just needed a way into his corner of the spirit world and that meant asking Dolly Jean for a favor.
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One that involved getting their hands on the Victrola that once belonged to this mysterious man and while at her place, they came to realize that this plan was quite sound. For Dolly Jean and her older sister often went into that realm to communicate with Julien and well… having a window into the spirit world at last, was everything that Rowan needed to set things right. Despite the danger present. Since Moira did touch that world briefly and was hurt badly from it. But Rowan had to atone, and she risked everything to head into that realm. Wherein Julien was impatiently waiting to speak with her. Which of course, was an amazing cliffhanger to end this episode upon, since we simply don’t know what to expect from a battle of wits with an outright monster.

But while we wait to see how Rowan handles this, we can celebrate one epic tale. One that laid down the foundation for Rowan to try and redeem herself for being greedy with power untold, and this story set up, new conflicts. Such as the nightmare that Sip has to deal with overseas and of course, Lark isn’t going away just yet. For he did stick around long enough to learn that Lasher’s genetic markers, match a portion of Rowan’s. Adding more fuel to the curious fire that burns within him, and that will of course complicate an already complicated situation. One that may be far harder than expected for Rowan to untangle. But at least she’s willing to try, and it will be interesting to see what we learn from Julien Mayfair, when he and Rowan finally chat come next week. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we are in the middle of utter chaos in our lives, the hardest thing in front of us… is figuring out how to take control of the situation. Simply because all we can do in the moment is react and do our best to hope that reaction will quell some of the stress. But deep down, we want this to end, and we know that if we can find control, we know we can barrel toward a conclusion and healing and better days. But that is no easy task, especially when our problems involve the complexity of people and their desires and never was all of this chaos more evident than during the next episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC.

For ‘Cover the Mirrors’ saw Rowan try to gain control of the situation. Simply because Lasher was out in the world and hungry for Mayfair souls… so she decided that perhaps the best way to grab hold of the nightmare, was to offer up a massive protection spell for the family, one that would keep them safe but also entice Lasher home so she could banish him. So, she rallied the troops and brought them to her new home… but under false pretenses unfortunately. Because she tasked Cortland with assembling this, and in classic Cortland fashion he tried to sell a special guest appearance from Lasher to the family. Since the lie still hung heavy. But since everyone was going to be under one roof, Rowan let it slide and quickly came to regret that decision.

Simply because, Cortland saw the evening as a grand opportunity to flex his muscles and gain control once again of the family’s affairs. So, he continued to lie and downplay Rowan and that left her listless and uncertain of how to gain control of the situation. Especially since there were Mayfair women refusing to attend the ceremony because of Cortland, and she truly wanted to protect everyone. But there seemed to be little she could do to fix this and little she could do to get anyone on her side, and that prompted her to just go with the flow and play nice and hope to hell that would be enough to get everyone to trust in her and trust in the evening. Leaving the situation out of control still, and it only got worse from there.

For in the heart of the city, was Lasher, and he was unsure of what to do next or how to live his life… and sadly… he got some horrific advice. For in the middle of a familiar park, he ran into something quite unexpected. Specifically, a vampire. To be even more precise, Felix. The vampire that was helping Lestat gather food in the season two finale of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, and he was quick to inform Lasher that he was special and that because he did not have to answer to the world’s rules… he should live his life as he saw fit and seize what he saw fit. To follow the rules that Darwin set forth. Which prompted Lasher to seek out his next Mayfair victim and attempt to seduce and kill her, with a gusto we’ve not seen from him yet. But thankfully, he failed, but the damage was done.
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Because this monster was now empowered. But an off the cuff moment back at the house… prompted Rowan to finally go for it and try and take control, and that brought about some unique results. On the plus side, it allowed for her to make nice with Moira and gain her trust to a certain extent, since she dropped by, and she was able to lock Cortland away to get him to shut up so she could tell everyone the truth about what was really going on and the horrors to expect without the spell. But that was it for good moments. Since a lack of understanding of her power accidentally exiled Josephine and Moira’s cousin to the same void she lived in briefly last season, and of course… she wasn’t prepared for the Talamasca and her own morality.

Because Sip and his team were waiting to capture Lasher, and all they needed was a moment of weakness and she gave that to them when he arrived. For she struggled with the concept of murder since her oath is to do no harm, which likely came into play the first time around as well. But none the less, Lasher was brought in by the Talamasca and Rowan lie injured and that brought together, one intense and rightfully messy tale. Since it correctly pointed out how tough it is to gain control of tough situations, and how impossible it can be when people get involved, and just like that… chaos continues to hover over the family, and no one is safe. And they simply won’t be until Lasher is captured, and it will be interesting to see what comes next, now that the Talamasca have control of a dangerous weapon that will stop at nothing to sup upon Mayfair souls. Until next time.

We harbor some supremely outdated beliefs in the United States of America, several of which… involve family life. For so many people, hold to the notion that family is seen as sacred by everyone in America, and because of that… it is beautiful and enriching. Wherein it always harbors a mother and a father to lead a family of two, potentially two and a half children, and they are loving and kind and truly guide their children to understand their role in the world. All so they can go forth and change a planet… that never seems to change. Which relates to how incorrect those beliefs truly are in our modern world. Because families don’t look like that anymore, and… they are not always as flawless and loving as we like to think.
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For there are some people out there, who are cold toward their children, and treat them poorly and outright abuse them verbally, physically or worse. Not to mention… we are so beholden to the belief that family life takes care of itself, that we’ve created a vicious cycle. Wherein generational abuse and trauma are now the norm and that’s helping to lock us in a cycle where we don’t break free of old, outdated and gross traditions. But thankfully, there is an awareness now, that we’ve turned a blind eye to what family really means, and can accomplish in our modern world, and there are creative voices now exploring its darker corners and how it can impact us. To break free of old cycles and see what we can become with that freedom, and it just so happens that a re-imagining of a classic Universal monster explores such matters in Wolf Man.

A feat that this film accomplishes by introducing us to Blake Lovell. An everyday New Yorker that is doing his best to raise a perfect daughter and have a perfect family. But alas, he is struggling to achieve those goals. For he and his wife Charlotte seem to be drifting apart and she harbors some resentment over the fact that their daughter Ginger seems to love him, more than her, and even that relationship harbors flaws. Since Blake does have moments where he channels some real darkness and directs it toward Ginger. The kind that was imparted upon him during his childhood, thanks to his abusive father, and well… Blake has quite the idea when it comes to resolving that darkness and bringing his family together at last. For he receives news that his father has passed and that means the time has come to pack up the old house and settle affairs in the great state of Oregon, and by going together… healing can take place. But alas, their arrival at Blake’s old stomping grounds… leads to real terror. For they learn an old legend is very real and it is focused on bringing Blake into its fold.

Which is the perfect way to explore the nature, of generational trauma. Since Blake’s troubled past, resurfacing in the present, allows for us to see how much dark words from a parent can shatter a psyche and make such actions feel normal, and part of life in a manner so powerful that we have no problem imparting it upon the next generation. But this story also makes sure to go beyond just showcasing that baseline aspect of it, for it uses the wolf transformation as an allegory to explore the power of generational trauma and the devastation it has upon an individual, and how that can, under the right circumstances, consume them and turn them into a monster of sorts. Which is a powerful way to ponder upon such matters, and what’s equally as incredible is that the film offers thoughtful ideas on how perhaps we can break the cycle, in ways that may not seem revolutionary to some, but aren’t talked about enough. Such as cutting ties and seeking help to resolve the damage.
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But of course, make no mistake about it. While this feature does harbor some thoughtful commentary on a problem in our world we are just now exploring, it is still a horror film, and it delivers on that front in an epic manner. In part by injecting a little body horror in the story. The kind that does make one nauseous and uncomfortable for certain with its visceral and direct nature. Not to mention… the scares are just plain excellent. For co-writer and director Leigh Whannell uses a bevy of simple tactics to scare the hell out of the audience. Such as our fear of the unknown, our fears of isolation. Along with concepts that explore how very afraid we are of seeing our loved ones suffer, and it doesn’t end there. Since Whannell also uses the ‘less is more’ mentality to build tension and to offer up jump scares that are impactful over lazy, and all of those elements, work to a tee, and truly put the viewer on the edge of their seat with worry.

All of which brings forth, a genuinely terrifying, and genuinely brilliant horror feature. One that does the original film proud. For the original film, The Wolf Man, was rife with commentary and tragedy and solid scares as well. But this iteration manages to up the ante with the terror and update the commentary for a new age, and truly, the commentary is the film’s highlight. Since it prompts one to question, are all of our negative behaviors in this life… a direct result of that cruelty… or learned behavior? And that also makes this an important and progressive feature, one that starts an important conversation about family life in the modern world and how it needs to be seen in a different light and given far more attention and care, so that tragedy can be avoided, and the cycle can be broken.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Horror’s Greatest’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.

Every horror fan out there, has a particularly unique horror film on their shelves, that they are always eager to show their friends and the uninitiated when the opportunity arrives. Simply because this horror flick is special and goes places that others have not or will not and they are always a true delight to behold. For this writer, that film is Chopping Mall, since so many folks I’ve known somehow never got the chance to see a gem of a story about horny teenagers fighting killer robots in a mall in the middle of the night, and I absolutely want people to know about that hidden gem, and that’s just it. Having that film around is about spreading the word about a movie that is special and amazing, and that’s why it should come as no surprise that the Shudder series, Horror’s Greatest, took the time to spotlight such movies.

Because this is a series that wants to bring horror fans together and what better way to do that, than by showcasing stories that will wow the novice fan and showcase what the genre can do in an unfettered fashion. And of course, what better way to care for the seasoned veteran than by giving them a chance to learn about something they haven’t seen before. Something rare and horrifying that they can immerse themselves within. Which was why ‘Hidden Gems’ took the time to offer up special features that were accessible and hardcore in nature. To appease those two sides, and we all received some very amazing recommendations from this episode. Since it truly offered up films that can serve as a gateway to the wonder of the genre, like Freaked, alongside stories that are dark and horrific in other unique ways, such as Ganja & Hess.

But while it was nice to get a comprehensive list of horror films to seek out and watch regardless of where you’re at in your horror journey, what makes this episode of note, is that it took the time to do more than just fire off a list of cool horror movies to watch that you’ve never heard of, it told stories about them. The same way that fan would fill in some blanks about what they know about their chosen hidden gem, and what makes it so incredibly special, which allowed for us to learn why so many of these films were pulled from distribution and how exactly they failed at the box office or disappeared from home video. To help folks understand how production companies and distributors and marketing teams can sometimes get it wrong and fail the project and let it languish because of how unique these kinds of stories can be.

Not to mention, it made sure to explore in amazing detail… how daring they can be and how powerful they can be, and how that can also impact perception and keep it from the mainstream. After all, The Untamed went places that a lot of movies would not. Since it featured sexual interludes with an alien being and deep-rooted ugly themes revolving around the nature of domestic violence and the toxic views some harbor regarding homosexuality. Or it explored how some of these films just pushed the envelope a little too hard, and that freaked out audiences in ways that no one expected. All of which gave us unique perspective on these films and their respective fates and of course, left us eager to explore several if not all of them. To broaden our horizons and to perhaps claim them and share them to others down the line.

Plus, it was also incredible to hear from people involved with these films and garner their perspective on the creation of their project and their insights. For that added amazing depth to an episode that was as unique as the stories it highlighted. Because most horror themed documentaries don’t cover these movies, which of course… keeps them as hidden gems. So, it was quite refreshing to see so many of them in the spotlight and learn their stories and learn about what makes them special. For they do deserve to be celebrated, and they need to be in the spotlight and thanks are due to Shudder for making that happen, and that truly leaves us eager for more. So, we can see what other hidden delights and observations and celebrations about this incredible genre await us as season two continues along. Until next time.

​Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Goosebumps’ (2023). 
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For the most part, homages are something that are used in small does in television and film. Simply because the expectation is that the audience should be enjoying something fresh and new, and too many tributes will detract from that. So, the majority of creatives out there abide, and throw in subtle winks and nods to their influences to uphold that particular rule. But what’s fascinating about this, is that the horror genre doesn’t abide by that at all. Since you can easily find tips of the caps to the greats or tributes to stories that influenced what you’re currently watching. Because in the world of horror, respect to what came before is everything, likely because this is a genre that didn’t hit the mainstream for nearly a century.

If anything, the wonder of homage in the world of horror is top of mind today, simply because it showed up in the next episode of Goosebumps: The Vanishing. For ‘Say Out of the Basement: Part II’ was flush with tributes, in between… an attempt to pick up the pieces. For both Devin and Anthony were doing their best to put the events of ‘Part I’ behind them. So, they went about their lives. With Devin working to integrate into the town better by hanging out more with a newly single Frankie. Which came with trouble since Trey’s toxic nature interfered, and oddly enough, his fury helped to motivate some of the biggest tributes present in this story. Many of which were tied to Anthony’s unique journey in this story. 

Because he discovered that a giant pulpy pod was growing in his arm, and he was quick to remove it and send samples of it to old friends. Who quickly informed him… that it wasn’t plant life, it was animal life that he had discovered, and it loved eating sweet, sweet, meat. Which prompted Anthony to get some dead mice and later, a lamb leg, to feed the little pod that was born of his flesh, and it was more than happy to enjoy a little sampling of meat and grew quickly. All of which, served as several tributes. Since in many ways, the gross removal of that pod tipped the show’s cap toward the body horror subgenre, and of course, the pod was a hybrid of the ones seen in Invasion of the Body Snatchers with a hint of Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors.

All of which made for some lovely tributes. The kind whose charm did not last… because there were scares to be found in this story. Because the pod and its potential for answers, fired up a bevy of old emotions for Anthony and made him a touch more reckless than usual. To the point where he felt the need to teach Trey a lesson, and that was a tipping point for the neighborhood bully. Who broke into the basement and had a hideous encounter with the pod-being. Who merged with Trey and created a hideous, angry nightmare that kidnapped Frankie in the hopes of finding peace. Which led to a wild showdown that seemingly led to the pod-being’s end. But alas, it turned to liquid and quickly inhabited Trey’s car, giving rise to more homages to come.

After all, that means a new iteration of ‘The Haunted Car’ awaits, and both old and new versions are in turn homages to Stephen King’s Christine and well, that was a perfect way to wrap up a story that did indeed pay proper tribute to the genre’s rich history. In a manner, that was downright scary. Because it was tough going, to watch Anthony carve that pod out of his arm and let’s be honest, Trey 2.0 was outright terrifying and disturbing, and that all came courtesy from one quality episode. One that really did let us know that season two of this show will lean harder into homage and into the scares, and that’s just fine. Since it shows that Goosebumps is continuing to grow, and it will be interesting to see what kinds of lovely tributes and bold scares await us as year two continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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One particular moment that no parent ever wants to face, is to learn that their beloved child… is an outright monster. Because in that moment, there is nothing but conflicted emotions. The kind that extends sympathy to those that suffered at the hands of their child, along with shame and a sense of failure. For it is the goal of every parent to raise a good human being who would never make the six o’clock news in a devastating manner. But some parents face that, and of course, disappear shortly after to likely learn to live with the outcome, and the weight of possible inaction. Since they will undoubtedly wonder if by chance, there was more, they could have done to prevent such a tragedy from ever taking place.

The fact is though, they likely could not. Since so many children conduct these acts at a point in life where they are capable of making their own decisions and harbor their own moral core, and that question is designed to help people cope really. But it does leave one to wonder… what would happen if a parent knew of the evil in front of them. Would they step in and try and stop suffering from taking place? Well, the next episode of Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches on AMC poses the answer that, yes, a parent most certainly would step in and try to stop their wicked child from doing harm. But would they be successful? Well, ‘Ten of Swords’ explored that too, shortly after we caught up with an unleashed Lasher in this tale, and it did not take him long here to find another Mayfair woman and seduce her and outright kill her.

Which in turn, rattled Rowan and prompted to jump into action quickly, and do something, anything. So, she decided in that moment… it was best to try and bring down her son once and for all. Which led to a harrowing sequence of events where we learned just how powerful Rowan has become, since she was able to summon bolts of lighting and fireballs, and she harbored the ability to bring down the world around her to try and end Lasher’s life. But alas, she could not bring him to his end, and he soon found himself on the street, hurting, confused and eager to find peace and well… only two things could bring him that. Specifically, more cold milk and more of the lifeforce of the Mayfair family. Which once more brought him to a victim and that brought forth even more death and suffering for the family.

Yet, while all of that was happening, Rowan found herself in quite the reflective place. Because despite understanding she’d helped to create a monster, it was still her son, and the ghosts of Mayfair past pointed out that she held back and could have stopped him if she actually wanted to. Which hammered home, that a parent would try to stop their child from evil, but it is up for debate if they could finish the job. For various reasons, such as how a toxic relationship is hard to quit, something that was further explored by Cortland here. Since Rowan was pondering deeply upon letting him free, and that was a kind thought to harbor. For in that strange space, he found himself within, he came face to face with his father as he explored it. Wherein we learned that toxicity spans generations in this family, and that Cortland’s poppa, Julien, was strong with it. As evidenced by his terrifying conversations and demands, and Cortland’s incredible obedience. Even going so far as to feed his starving dad his own arm to please him.
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But thankfully, Cortland was freed from that unsettling nightmare, in an effort to try and find another way to stop Lasher, and he wasn’t the only one called into service on this matter. Because Moira spent a little time with Sip in this tale, as part of the Talamasca’s plan to bring Lasher into their stead, and at first, it seemed as though Sip was wasting his time talking to her. Because she saw right through his attempts to curry her favor, in an effort to use her to capture Lasher. But seeing the devastation that Lasher put forth, firsthand, changed her mind on such matters. For she called Sip to come by and touch the fallen. To see exactly what they could learn from loss. Giving rise to the reality that now more are in on the hunt for this monster and that those closest to him, may continue to give him power because it seems impossible for a mother to cross that ultimate line, despite knowing what she knows.

But then again… she might. It may take time. Or perhaps a little more grounding from Lark. Who arrived with unique genetic results to try and help his friend. For that helped to remind us that Rowan is caught up between two worlds. The world she left behind and the world that gives her power, and objectivity might help her stop a monster. All of which gave rise to a fascinating story. One that pondered upon some unique concepts regarding parenting, and it also leaned into horror hard, courtesy of Ted Levine’s performance as Julien Mayfair, and it will be interesting to see how he pops up again down the line, since he hinted at that, and see how the hunt for Lasher goes as season two of this dynamic show continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains minor spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Get Away’.
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It is definitely safe to say that folk horror is enjoying quite the renaissance right now. For everywhere you turn, there are a bevy of horror movies about everyday people stumbling into the nightmare of obscure, small town life. Or it’s a story set ages ago where darkness befalls a small-town community. But one way or another, you’ve seen one of these lovely films and it makes sense as to why they are enjoying such popularity right now. After all, these films tap into something primal, fear wise. Such as our fears of isolation and helplessness, and they remind us of the true power of connectivity and larger community. Since those elements in our world prevent some of the darkness we see here.

But what’s truly wonderful about this era of folk horror, is that so many creatives are eager to put a unique spin upon them and take them to new heights. So that they can fit in with the current landscape and ponder upon internal issues that are plaguing us, or… perhaps enjoy some measure of reinvention. Since that is something that accompanies popularity as well. But the possibility of that, does beg quite the question. In that… what more can folk horror accomplish? For it is a genre that is pretty well established and doesn’t really seem as though it can go to new places. Well, as it turns out, it most certainly can. Because horror legend Nick Frost penned a screenplay for a folk horror feature, that does indeed offer reinvention for this popular subgenre of films.

A feat that Get Away accomplishes, by taking us on a supremely unique ride. Wherein we meet a family of four, consisting of Richard, his wife, Susan, and their kids, Sam and Jessie… who are on their way to enjoy a unique event. For this family has a bit of a curious streak when it comes to morbid things, and they have come to Sweden from Great Britian, to take in a special holiday. For soon an ancient festival will take place on an obscure Swedish island, one mired in dark memories of starvation and cannibalism and this family wants to see it play out. But alas, they are not welcome in the slightest by the locals and well, that creates quite the problem for those who call this island home. For Richard’s family has brought with them a genuine darkness that will make everyone on the island pay dearly, for not showing the family more courtesy.

Which really is a plot that manages to reinvent the folk horror genre, but early on it doesn’t seem as though that will be the case. Since everything that plays out before a secret is revealed, is some old school folk horror. Complete with eccentric locals and weird traditions and rotten hate for those who enter their orbit. But once the secret is out in the open, the film changes course and is filled with nonstop surprises. The kind that are epic in nature and also… stunningly gory. In fact, there are sequences here that make you nauseous with the wanton splatter that takes place and that’s a wonderful thing. Since it speaks to how well the surprise works and truly, that twist and how it comes to pass really does make this a folk horror film unlike any other. 
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But what’s equally as impressive that Frost’s script accomplishes more than a re-jigging of the subgenre. It also, is quite George Romero in nature. Since in many ways, this folk horror story is seen from the eyes of the people of the town, and what unfolds on their island has echoes of criticism of colonialism. Of how allowing outside forces in, can collapse the delicate eco-systems that Britian and America have upended in the name of exploration, imperialism and freedom/oil. But in true Romero fashion, Frost also makes a point to speak upon how in many ways, this wild family and their wild secret serve as a mirror for the ignorance we’ve let grow in society. The very one that now threatens the foundations of our society and how real inaction has helped it rise. Which makes for a brilliant horror feature really, one that still has more wonders to offer.

After all, Nick Frost is known for his comedic chops as well, so there is humor to be found in this story and that brings about some well-timed chuckles and some true laugh out loud moments, especially when the reveal and bonkers third act hit. Not to mention, the cast, led by Frost, sell the majesty of this complex and intelligent story. One that truly is an outright must-see. Because this Shudder exclusive has something for everyone really. For there’s gore aplenty for the gorehounds, there’s social commentary and deep thoughts on the human condition, and some magnificent comedy to ensure the messages never weighs heavy. But what matters most, is that this film propels folk horror in a bold new direction, courtesy of some original storytelling that informs us all, that with a little care and a little thought, the real potential of any genre can be found.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Horror’s Greatest’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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One the best aspects of the horror genre, is the sheer fact that it can take anything from our regular world and turn it into a scary story. For example, the movie, Thankskilling. A saucy horror-comedy that resolves around a Thanksgiving turkey eager to turn the tables and the blades on people. Something only horror could make happen, and it doesn’t end there. Since we’ve seen killer ice cream men stab people with a vanilla cone and believe it or not… this is a genre that can even take romantic concepts and turn them into something scary.

For proof, well look no further than this week’s episode of Horror’s Greatest on Shudder. Simply because ‘Killer Dates’ was the focus of this week’s journey through the genre, and the show was eager to showcase the bevy of horror stories revolving around the darkness that can accompany dates and love, in the most creative ways no less. Since stories such as My Bloody Valentine speak to matters of the heart, blood and all, and we’ve seen some unique variations of evil romance stories take place within the genre. Such as what happened to dear Carrie in Carrie, since she was basically baited and switched, romantically, into being the school’s joke, only for that to backfire.

But of course, we were also treated to explorations regarding the trauma that love can cause since Terror Train works within that realm and well… that’s really what made this episode so wonderfully special. The fact that it very succinctly broke down how love works so well in the genre. In part, because love creates great fear within us all. Because love is the unknown and it scares the hell out of us to put ourselves out there and really be so vulnerable in order to find it. So, these movies in many ways, express those fears and help us process them. Since there is really little chance a bad date will end with us say… getting sliced and diced a la Audition. So, that helps us to cope a bit, and these films also help us process another fear regarding love.

In that, we are terrified of being rejected. Of having that special someone humiliate us and harm us emotionally by not wanting us or perhaps falling out of love with us. And these movies ponder upon that as well. Since they do indeed express the shame, we feel when embarrassed and the terror of rejection. All so that we understand… that’s just part of life, and we have to go through that to grow and such pain will help us to find our real partner and if we cannot handle and understand all that… well then, we end up like the monsters that don’t get over it. Making some of these stories cautionary tales if you will, impactful ones for certain and these examinations made… for one engaging tale.

One that truly, went far deeper than other episodes from this series. Which isn’t an insult by any means, since we’ve established that this show is about education and introduction. But here, it was all about the learning and the wonder of these movies and that’s just fine. Because in a way, that does accomplish the core goals of this series. Since it helps the horror lover learn about a subgenre that is impactful and fun, and the newcomers get to understand how deep horror can go and how well it helps us to face our fears and hopefully… we see a few more episodes in this vein in season two. Because it was just riveting from start to finish since it truly showcased horror’s wonder. Until next time.