Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 502 of ‘The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula’. To revisit the Season Five Premiere, click here.
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Something that comes up time and time again in our discussions of the wondrous Shudder series, The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula, is how well Drac and Swan educate us regarding horror and celebrate our relationship with it. And this has come up so often, simply because for the past five years, and even through Titans, this incredible duo keeps finding new ways to remind us of how we fell in love with horror. Of how we were exposed to it in ways we never thought possible and of course, how those moments that opened our eyes, somehow ties into the rich fabric of the genre. Which really does provide us with incredible perspective regarding the genre week in and week out.

If anything, this wondrous reason to tune in is top of mind today, because it was once again put on display in the show. For ‘Children of the Can’ allowed for Drac and Swan to inform us that if you were a child of the 1980s and 1990s, you were introduced to horror in a manner that you weren’t aware of, through quirky trading cards. For ‘The Garbage Pail Kids’ were filled to the brim with twisted characters that served as a gateway to horror. Since some of those characters were monsters outright, and/or were tributes to classic monsters from the past, giving rise to curiosity on our part, to seek out those monsters and learn about them. All of which, played a huge part in the history of the genre, and introduced so many to it.

But of course, there was a rhyme and a reason to this fascinating lesson, in that… it was up to the monsters to create their own drag version of these iconic cards. One that would impress and properly pay tribute to the spirit of the ol’ GPK, but not before we learned… that no one was sent home last week and that… this week’s episode… was going to make us extremely nauseous. Because Drac and Swan really wanted to use this episode to lean into the filth aspect of drag and boy, did they ever. First by having everyone drink trash smoothies that looked as disgusting as could be. Not to mention, someone was going to have to sit in a well-used port-a-potty to assemble their looks because… filth. Which brought forth some gross moments, the kind that were amplified by the floor show.

Because the monsters learned quickly what the expectation is from the Boulet Brothers and that brought forth some amazing tributes to those classic cards. The kind that featured the perfect blend of cheeky concepts and horror, as evidenced by what Throb Zombie brought to the table. Alongside some perfect horror elements, courtesy of Nohuru’s amazing spider hybrid. But of course, not everyone wowed from beginning to end, since some of the costumes just didn’t resonate or really wow this week, and that’s okay. Because that’s how this goes. But disappointment did lead to one last gross moment in the show. Wherein the bottom looks had to fight for their lives by moving worms and maggots from one location to another with their mouths, and the monster that moved the most, won another shot at the title.

Which was… awful to watch, but hey, this is what happens when there are concerns that there isn’t enough filth in the show. In that, we are thusly treated to some horrendous filth, and hopefully we all learned to be careful what we wish for, and hopefully no one was eating when they watched this episode. But that aside, this was, a great episode through and through. One that once again celebrated horror and its history in a supremely relatable manner and of course, featured some amazing judges once again. Since Matthew Lillard offered up amazing insight, as did Landon Cider. In fact, Landon did some schooling as well, and now that we’ve reached the end of this leg of the competition it is definitely safe to say we are all both nervous and excited to see what lies ahead. Excited because the monsters are bringing it, and nervous… because Drac and Swan aren’t messing around their challenges, either. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Bloodthirst’. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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For the vast majority of its illustrious history, the vampire story has been synonymous with romance, and understandably so. After all, for most of us, our first introduction to this creature of the night was Bram Stoker’s Dracula. A story that featured a mature yet ruthless bloodsucker that craved human connection and love, and that more or less cemented this creature to be nothing more than a strange lover of sorts. A tortured soul that needed the deep drink of love as much as it needed blood’s vibrant power, and that brought forth ages of storytelling where the vampire was misunderstood, yet dangerous and yes, there were outliers to this particular storytelling edict.

After all, there were stories where the vampire was indeed a force to be reckoned with and scary. But somehow, those stories still found ways to inject matters of love and seduction, those roots of the story that fascinate us so. But as the years roll along, there is a titanic shift happening within the world of the vampire story. For there is a desire to see it become more and perhaps return to its outright roots. Where it was indeed a ruthless and monstrous creature, one borne of that desire to consume blood above all else and lean into its incredible powers to move forward its own agenda, and it just so happens… that the Mahal Empire has taken the time to release a vampire film in that vein, and that makes Bloodthirst, quite the delicious watch.

For this particular story, plays a grandiose game of ‘what if?’ Wherein vampires are real and through some unfortunate twists and turns, they rise to prominence in the world and quickly take it over. Leaving mankind’s domain in ruin and those few unfortunate souls that managed to survive the initial onslaught now live in fear and on the road. Eager to avoid the roving bands of bloodsuckers that wander the landscape to feed with impunity and inflict suffering. But in these dark times, a hero appears to have emerged, for a slayer named John Shepard believes he has discovered the location of the master of the vampires and if he can slay the beast, he can free humanity from the scourge that surrounds it. Provided of course he can get people to rally to his all-important cause.

Which is a plot that truly unleashes the vampire for the monster that it is. Because they truly are the stuff of nightmares here, and care little about preserving the food supply. They want the pleasure of injecting fear before they feed, and the joy of standing above another species and that makes for one unsettling film for certain. One that is hopeless in nature for a time, and one that truly does feature some fearless and strong vampires. Who seem to believe they cannot be defeated and that John’s plans to vanquish the master are nothing more than a desperate attempt to inject hope into a hopeless world. But while it is indeed delightful to be treated to vampires that are ruthless in nature for a change… this movie brings so much more to the table. 
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For there is also… a lot of social commentary and subtext present in this film. That in many ways, presents a world that isn’t all that much different from our own. Since there are people out there who resemble the vampires, and indulge in darkness and fear, and those who don’t subscribe to that… infight about a way forward instead of banding together to really stick it to the vampires. All of which speaks to the divide in our world and the scattered nature of humanity at this point in time. Which is another welcome surprise to find in this tale, since vampire stories have only recently started to really dig deep into the human condition and parallel our world, and this movie really does deserve a round of applause for offering up such thoughtfulness here, and for offering up quite the entertaining and wild ride.

For not only do you get to enjoy some epic vampires and social commentary, but you’re also treated to some amazing action sequences. Courtesy of big-time fights between humanity and the monster that now rules the world. Not to mention, the acting here is simply delightful, since everyone plays their part to a tee, and we absolutely need to take a moment and recognize Tara Reid’s performance here. For she plays the Vampire Queen with a twisted zest and zeal that she’s never put on screen before, making this a special performance for her and really, in the end, all of these elements bring forth one satisfying vampire story. Wherein we are reminded of the fact that this classic monster is indeed a monster, one that has no qualms with robbing us of that which we cherish most, the very blood that sustains us.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Hell House LLC Origins: The Carmichael Manor’. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Truly, the found footage subgenre of horror is one of the most popular types of films out there for creatives to make, and for audiences to consume, and it makes sense as to why. After all, they can be made for a low budget, and creatives can indeed be creative as to what they let the audience see on screen. Giving rise to a creepy story that can easily reach the masses since they don’t require a massive investment. And as for the viewers, well they love them because we are a culture of voyeurs now, and being able to peek into the lives of others in a manner that entertains and allows for the viewer to process some fears in a safe space, is just a true delight.

Yet what’s fascinating about these wildly popular films, is that some don’t give them the respect they are due, and yet but a handful are genuinely successful and resonate with audiences, and there are good reasons for those problems as well. For gatekeeping is a thing, and needs to stop regarding these films, but also… because there is a formula that goes into making a great found footage film, that so many don’t bother to follow and just rush their film out there. For instance, it needs to be relatable on some level, so we feel as though we are immersed within the story. Plus, it needs to be scary, it needs to be engaging and above all, it needs to world-build and truly give us something captivating to focus upon, and one such franchise that accomplishes this every single time, is the Hell House LLC saga.

For from the beginning, writer/director Stephen Cognetti has created a world where the evil within it feels real, complete with characters we relate to and care about, and stories that scare and captivate and well… once again, Mister Cognetti has brought forth another masterclass in how to make a world-class found footage film through his latest film, which is now available on Shudder, Hell House LLC Origins: The Carmichael Manor. Which this story accomplishes by having us reflect upon footage recently recovered from the haunted and iconic Carmichael Manor. Wherein ghost hunter extraordinaire Margot, and her brother Chase, and her girlfriend Rebecca went missing after encountering the spirits that roam about the property.

Which in many ways, is a plot that appears to be nothing more than standard found footage fare, but the devil, as is always the case in these films, is in the details. For Margot is someone we can deeply relate to. For she has a past that drives her to explain the unknown, and she has a broken family and a partner that supports her and that makes all of these characters everyday folks we care about and feel for, checking off one important box on that list. And of course, the footage reveals unto us, a spiraling nightmare of sorts. Where something evil in the house begins to awaken and gain power… and it relates to the Abbadon Hotel. Which grows the mythos of this franchise in a delightful manner and makes the story worthwhile and engaging and enticing really. 
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But of course, while it’s nice to be treated to solid storytelling and some beautiful tributes and connective tissue to the rest of the franchise, what everyone is wondering, is whether or not this entry is scary, and it most certainly is. For that which haunts this house, knows precisely how to make an entrance when the time comes for the spirits to come alive. And that leads to eerie moments that absolutely make you jump and make your skin crawl. Making this an effective horror film as well, one that genuinely puts you on the edge of your seat with some of the visuals it puts forth. Plus, it features the obligatory clowns present in this saga, and no one likes clowns in horror movies, plain and simple, and yet… the wonder of this story doesn’t end there.

For it also features some solid performances from top to bottom. With every cast member selling the terror and selling their worries, and that leads to an authentic experience and truly, all of these elements blend together to give us… a perfect found footage feature. One that checks all the boxes necessary to offer up a great one, all while taking it to the next level with quality scares and quality writing. Which makes this… a must-see horror feature. Simply because it offers something for everyone. For if you’re a fan of the franchise, you’ll enjoy wonders untold here, and if you’re new to found footage or just love a solid horror film, there’s plenty to help you fall in love with these films, and plenty to chill you. Courtesy of a movie that is made with care and filled with scares.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘When Evil Lurks’.
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There is a great deal of people out there anymore, that genuinely believe that there are forces of evil working against the forces of good, and there is some merit to that line of thinking. After all, at this moment… there are terrorist organizations working against the West. Who believe it must be undermined and eventually destroyed. But there are also forces for good out there, watching those people, and studying their plans, and shutting them down as we sleep, keeping balance in the world, and while that should end such beliefs… they persist. In fact, they get wilder by the minute.

For those who hold to that notion, believe that there are monsters that roam the shadows, or outright evil spirits that lurk about and possess people to make them do their bidding. Or that there is a deep state composed of something sinister that operates with impunity to make our lives hell, and well… these thoughts are of concern, because there is no proof to back any of them up. They’re just theories and fears, but they persist, and people hold to them and well… that has motivated some creatives to ponder upon why people worry about such matters, and what the world might look like, if by chance these wild thoughts were reality. In fact, there’s a brand-new film on Shudder that dives deep into all of those questions, and that makes When Evil Lurks, quite the incredible horror story.

Simply because it presents to us, a world where demons thrive. In fact, they can be born into human flesh in this world and when that happens, they wreak havoc and claim children’s souls and yet… despite this threat being there… people just go about their day. For they believe that if they follow the rules of keeping evil at bay, for there are rules… the kind that involve avoiding technology and doing nothing to provoke evil, and live as far from it as possible, their lives will be okay. But alas, one fine day in the country, an everyman named Pedro comes to learn that the evil in this world has found its way into his town and with the authorities washing their hands of the matter, so a professional can handle it, Pedro and his friends take matters into their own hands to be free of evil. Only to learn, it has taken root and without prompt escape or action… it will spread and lurk, putting Pedro and his family at a crossroads since he simply hasn’t a clue… how to handle evil.

Which is a plot that presents us with a very unique and fascinating story. One that is original in nature, since this writer is hard pressed to think of a demon film where they are commonplace in the world, but also… that plot provides us with a hyper-intelligent story as well. One filled to the brim with commentary on our modern world, how we ignore problems until they become a real concern and how… our world wouldn’t change all that much if the evil some think persists behind the scenes was indeed real. There would still be indifference and bickering. But above all, this incredible storytelling twist really speaks to the reality that our biggest problem, and why these thoughts persist, is because we tolerate evil, and we let it persist. To the point where our minds struggle to comprehend that reality, and our imaginations give rise to unique thoughts to help us cope. All of which are some fine points that stay with you long after this movie has come to an end.
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However, while it is refreshing to enjoy a film this original and this different, make no mistake about it… it’s a horror film through and through. One so scary that it will also stay with you because of the awful visuals it presents you with. For this film also ponders upon the possibility that if evil was real, it would relish in the opportunity to inflict pain and find joy in such matters. Which leads to some twisted and horrifying moments in this story. The kind that sees the evil do whatever it pleases and that truly will unsettle the viewer. In fact, there is a moment near the end of the film that is so shocking and so disturbing, that you’ll likely need to pause the film, and take a minute to process and/or recover from, the nightmare you’ve just seen before continuing along. 

All of which makes this, an utterly powerhouse horror film. One that is smart, scary, and as gory as they come and of course… it scares you to the very core of your being. Simply because… this movie holds nothing back with its scares and its depravity, as though the evil in this story is nothing more than an enabler for the worst that we are capable of. Which also adds some frightening parallels to the times we live in. Yet there are still hopeful thoughts in this story, since it does subtly touch upon how we could defeat our fears and evil through genuine unity, and really, in the end, the thoughtfulness of this film, and its scares, do make it essential viewing. Because it has something for everyone and it goes hard, courtesy of an unfortunate answer to a longstanding question… ‘what if?’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 809 of ‘Fear the Walking Dead’. To revisit the previous episode, clickhere. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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One unfortunate truth that no fan of a television series that is going off the air likes to face, is that not every loose end will be tied up before or during the series finale. Especially when that show is an ensemble piece. Because there is only so much screen time available and the final season is often moving toward something big and juicy, so only a handful of characters can see their arcs come to completion before the greater story comes together and brings the whole thing to grandiose close. And that’s tough to swallow when someone we love doesn’t get their due and that frustration, is why the final season of Fear the Walking Dead on AMC is of note.

Simply because… the eighth and final season, is trying to serve as the anthesis to that. After all, Morgan Jones finally faced his painful past and made peace with it before heading off into the world to find the man that gave him a second chance, and as of late… supporting characters are also seeing their arcs find closure, as are some principles. After all, Strand is finally (mostly) atoning for his mistakes, and the same goes for Madison Clark. Plus, we saw Charlie’s arc end with redemption and Luciana and Daniel have reconciled their darkness. Giving rise to a final six episodes mired in resolution and wrapping up every character’s arc, and the show is showing no signs of slowing down on this matter.

For last night’s story, ‘Sanctuary’, took the time to offer closure for Dwight, and others. For Dwight, we came to discover, had made his way back toward his old stomping grounds near Alexandria and the Sanctuary, and the house that he and Sherry were supposed to meet at and start over within, and well… Dwight was in a dark place upon his arrival. For he really felt as though the death of his son and the events of life between that moment and the day he left Virginia at Daryl’s request… were a direct result of karmic punishment. As though his decision to stand with Negan doomed him and made him a monster from which there would be no redemption or closure. But of course, the universe found a way to make Dwight question that again.

Because a random and sickly man, a diabetic to be specific, was asking for help. Help to get his insulin back from a group of strangers that holed up in a stronghold and help to just… find peace. A move that Dwight understood was another opportunity to set things right, and he made every attempt to help this man… only to find himself deeply reflecting up the journey once again. Since the stronghold those men were using for shelter was the Sanctuary and that brought back all kinds of horrible memories and traumas, and matters were only further complicated by the fact… that his musings delayed his return and his new friend slipped into a diabetic coma and death and resurrection. Giving rise to even lower moments for Dwight, the kind that made it seem his soul was about to be lost to this hopeless world.

But a strange miracle made its way into that moment, one that came courtesy of the arrival of June, Dove, and Sherry. Of course, Sherry led everyone here because she well knew, this was where Dwight would end up after everything that happened. But while this should have a been a moment of celebration and reflection, it was nothing but sour grapes for D. Who simply wanted to suffer and wanted no part of what June and Sherry were asking. Which was to come back to P.A.D.R.E. and defend it from Troy’s forces. Because he was a good man with good ideals, and also because, everyone would follow him into battle. But of course, a simple no wasn’t enough to chase off Sherry and June, and they kept pressing, that is until disaster struck.
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For Dove tried to steal some supplies so she could escape everyone, period. And in doing so, took a bullet from those unsavory fellows. Which brought our heroes back to the Sanctuary, since it was indeed a bastion for good medical supplies and well… that’s when our heroes were really forced to face their past. Because in this place bad memories were amplified for Sherry, and a sense of failure for June hung heavy in the air, and each hero here really leaned into their flaws and their doubts despite the fact that the dead were closing in and ready to collapse the building. But the damage they experienced over the past eight years ran deep and they were indeed lost, until the possibility of seeing an innocent die and seeing their own lives end in sorrow… finally woke them up to the reality of the situation and of their pain.

In that yes, mistakes were made, and stumbles were common for this trio, but they were still heroes. They were still admired, and they were still good people. Who saw a lot of bad days and experienced a lot of hurt. But as the saying goes, no one is gone until they are gone, and they still could shine and still do right, if they really worked at leaving their past behind and worked to heal their traumas and that led… to closure at last for everyone. For they faced the truths and understood what lie ahead. And… it led to Dove’s healing and in the end, Dwight returned with this duo to Texas and truly left the Sanctuary and bad days behind, and it really was time for everyone to do so. Which brought forth a happyish ending for certain.

One that stayed in line with this year’s theme of redemption and if we can find salvation as a species, and that really did make for a satisfying ending to Dwight and Sherry’s pained plight, one that has spanned two shows and years on end. Plus, it was nice to see June heal at last as well. But of course, it wasn’t a perfectly happy ending. Since we did come to learn that while Strand is better, he is still Strand and still believes in going the extra mile for survival, which was why he brought Troy’s daughter into the Madison’s old holding cell. For insurance and of course… to survive. But while we wait to see what repercussions come from this, we can indeed celebrate another story that brought about closure for characters that need it, and truly… it will be interesting to see what other characters will find peace before this storied saga about broken people at the end of everything, comes to a close. Until next time.

This piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the shows and films being covered here wouldn’t exist.

There are some folks who believe that once the clock strikes midnight on 10/31 and the calendar transforms to 11/1, that all things spooky must end. The Halloween decorations must come down post haste and the holiday decorations must go up and everyone should stop watching scary movies. For now… the season of giving has come and only Yuletide cheer should be surrounding us and well… every horror fan out there knows… that’s just not the right path at all. Sure, it’s fine for some, but there really is no harm in watching horror movies during the holiday season.

For they can help us cope with the madness and the stress of the holiday season, and one cannot forget that there are a bevy of holiday themed horror films out there, that make the season of giving, a season of splatter in a manner that oddly respects the holidays, and thankfully… the good people at Shudder are aware of this, and that’s why they make sure to provide us with new offerings during the holiday season. So, we can get our spooky fix and find a way to escape when that one drunk uncle won’t shut up about whatever nonsense he’s spewing, and the good news is, we now know what to expect from Shudder during the opening days of the holiday season. For their November Programming Guide has been released and here is everything that they are sending our way as the holidays take hold.

​Horror’s new icons The Boulet Brothers are on the hunt to find the world’s next drag monster superstar in this brand new, star-studded fifth season of their hit reality competition show. With new competitors, their challenges, special effects makeup, costumes, and performances, it promises to be truly terrifying and out-of-this-world.

​Rose (Marin Ireland) is a pathologist who prefers working with corpses over social interaction. She also has an obsession—the reanimation of the dead. Celie (Judy Reyes) is a maternity nurse who has built her life around her bouncy, chatterbox six-year-old daughter, Lila (A.J. Lister). When one tragic night, Lila suddenly falls ill and dies, the two women’s worlds crash into each other. They embark on a dark path of no return where they will be forced to confront how far they are willing to go to protect what they hold most dear. This standout directorial debut from Laura Moss reimagines Mary Shelley’s classic horror myth Frankenstein with such a contemporary understanding that it becomes something exciting, terrifying, and singularly new.

November 1
 
Anna and the Apocalypse
A zombie apocalypse threatens the sleepy town of Little Haven - at Christmas - forcing Anna and her friends to fight, slash and sing their way to survival, facing the undead in a desperate race to reach their loved ones. But they soon discover that no one is safe in this new world, and with civilization falling apart around them, the only people they can truly rely on are each other.
 
November 6
           
I Am Not A Serial Killer
In a small Midwestern town, a troubled teen with homicidal tendencies must hut down and destroy a supernatural killer while keeping his own inner demons at bay.
 
Mastemah
Follows Louise, a young psychiatric who starts analyzing a dark and mysterious man, but after that, people around her start to die. 
 
November 13
 
Berberian Sound Studio
A sound engineer’s work for an Italian horror studio becomes a terrifying case of life imitating art. 
 
The Wretched
A defiant teenage boy struggling with his parents’ imminent divorce faces off with a thousand year old witch who is living beneath the skin of and posing as the woman next door.
 
November 20
 
Pontypool
A radio host interprets the possible outbreak of a deadly virus which infects the small Ontario town he is stationed in. 
 
About Shudder
AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. For a 7-day, risk-free trial, visit www.shudder.com.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Shining Vale’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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The true beauty of the horror genre in modern times, is that it can truly serve as a platform to help people process the horrors of the world, and the horrors of life. For nothing is off limits for this genre and the stories it creates and the monsters that roam its worlds, can serve as an allegory for anything that ails us. Which is why we see so many stories speak to our modern problems and our fears. But what’s fascinating about this, is that most stories in this genre, rarely focus on both. It’s one or the other, as though there is a concern that perhaps putting too much into a tale of terror might too be much for an audience to process, which is a cautionary decision that isn’t always correct.

Because audiences are savvy and smart and want as much as possible to process so they feel as though they are getting their money’s worth and that’s why the STARZ series, Shining Vale, continues to be of note. Because as it continues to tell its fascinating story, it is making sure to offer as much commentary as possible, on our world and our personal experiences and for proof… look no further than last night’s episode of the show. For ‘Chapter 12: Smile’ took the time to examine some very personal and real things. Such as how our actions have grave consequences and how sometimes… we bury ourselves in toxic surroundings and haven’t a clue that we do, and all of that was handled in this story by way of Pat and Terry. 

For Terry came to learn in this story that Pat was the one that had the affair, and all he dealt with was a stolen kiss, and when confronted about this, Pat finally fessed up to what really happened and learned about consequences. Since Terry decided he needed to leave and heal and find a new path in life. Which he attempted to do with Kathryn, only to learn that leaving did nothing for him. If anything, being away from Pat made him talk about her more. Because he was tied to her, and her toxic actions and if he wanted real change… he needed to confront that and of course… Pat needed to own up to her own actions better and that was some fine commentary on the human condition. The kind that all of us can find something worthwhile within. 

As for something a touch more global, well that was handled by way of Pat’s other journey in this tale. Because the dreams were back and wilder than ever, and they… oddly enough offered commentary on how we treat women in this world and explored the stupid decisions men have made for women throughout the years to control women and make women feel as though the problem lies in gender and not in misogyny. As evidenced by the strange acts from the past that Pat experienced as she met another familiar face in her dreams, and much of what we saw here… felt pretty damn relevant. Especially discussions about Pat’s need to smile more to feel better, and that was some fine commentary on the current state of affairs when it comes to equality in our world and the majesty of this tale didn’t end there.
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Because it featured some powerful moments for Gaynor, wherein she was forced to confront her decision to leave school and the conflict she’s currently experiencing about returning and finishing what she started and of course… the horror elements this show is known for were everywhere to be found as well. Since those dreams offered more than commentary. They spoke to a Pat Phelps that was caught between worlds, one that extended well beyond our knowledge and was doing its best to have one its citizens make its way into our own, through Pat. Because uh… the implication was strong that a night of passion with Terry, and a strange dream about a sexual encounter with that beastly being, combined with the return of Pat’s youthful nature… might mean that a baby is on the way. Which are some classic horror elements for certain, akin to hints of Rosemary’s Baby.

But before we ponder further upon whether or not that is the case, we can celebrate, one stunning tale. One that packed more commentary and observations into a half hour of storytelling than some horror franchises hope to accomplish over decades. But that speaks to the brilliance of this series and its quality writing, and this episode deserves a round of applause for going this route. Because it does prove, audiences can handle a plenty and hopefully other scary stories follow suit. But that aside, the stage is definitely set for one wild episode next week. One that might see Pat become a momma once again, courtesy of a neighbor that clearly cannot be trusted, and the potential for that kind of surprise… does begin to lean this story toward something supernatural after all, and that means… next week’s tale might change everything and take us down a bold new path. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Eight of ‘Goosebumps’ (2023). To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve been treated to some powerhouse horror storytelling, courtesy of the Disney+ and Hulu series, Goosebumps (2023). Because not only has this show taken the time to reinvent the classic series, we all know and love, giving rise to something fresh and original, and downright engaging… but it’s also given us so much more. Such as homages to the classic show and the books in an organic and chilling manner, alongside featuring bits of commentary on the human condition, and an immersive story full of mystery and answers. But while that has made for an incredible experience through and through, this is also a show that understands sometimes… you just need a scary story to scare you and well… that’s precisely what this week’s episode leaned into.

For ‘You Can’t Scare Me’ featured a mad dash to save Nora from Biddle and was devoid of deeper meaning and backstory. It was just one intense ride, one that got underway, after the show resolved last week’s cliffhanger. For the imaginary house Biddle built was melting and our heroes were in dire straits. Which forced them to move deeper into the book, and meet people from Harold’s past, including his parents. Who had kind things to say and wishes they wanted someone to express to Harold if the group escaped, and escape… they most certainly did. For Mister Bratt came through at the last possible second and drew an escape route for everyone to use before once again being claimed by Biddle. Giving rise to the rescue at hand.

Not a second too soon for that matter. For Biddle was indeed hot on Nora’s trail, who settled into the family cabin and went right to work in executing her all-important plan. Which was… to bury the bits of Slappy about the woods, so that no one would ever find him and so no one would ever assemble him again and let his evil thrive. Which he of course, tried to stop with minimal results. But what he did do, was distract Nora just long enough, for Biddle to make his way to the cabin and what followed… was some hardcore, Shining style horror. Wherein Nora was forced to run through the snow and the woods with Biddle nipping at her heels and at one point, it seemed as though he was victorious, since he managed to get Slappy back and wound Nora.

But what he did not count on, was everyone coming to her rescue, teenager, and parents alike. And now that everyone knew the story, they were able to confront Biddle and be honest with him, with a sense of urgency no less. Because Isaiah was separated during the search/confrontation, and Biddle could have caused him great harm. But kind words, a reminder of what his parents wanted for him… allowed for a miracle to happen. In that, Biddle finally came to see the error of his ways, and that Slappy wasn’t a friend, but an outright monster that had caused him more harm than good, and he needed to be free of that little wooden jerk. So, he tossed Slappy off of a cliff and relinquished his spirit to the afterlife. Freeing Bratt and allowing for everyone to go home okay, and that… was quite the ending.

Mainly because just like that, the heroes won, and a happy ending awaits and that is… out of place for an episode this far from the season finale. But it’s welcome here, because it was a pleasant surprise and leaves us wondering what is to come now that Slappy is defeated. But before we ponder further on what comes next, we can celebrate one scary tale. One that really did put Nora and Isaiah in real danger and let Justin Long shine as the heavy. Because he tapped into something terrifying as an actor and really made Biddle the stuff of nightmares. But at last, Harold is at peace, Slappy is defeated and undiscovered country awaits. The kind that will either take this story in a bold new direction or lean into an old horror trope. Wherein the monster, might not be as dead or as easily defeated as we are led to believe. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 404 of ‘Creepshow’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It is definitely safe to say that season four of the hit Shudder series, Creepshow, is the best season of the show to date. For not only are the stories perfectly written, and bizarre and engaging but they are supremely dark and filled with powerhouse social commentary. Since we’ve enjoyed ponderings upon what it means to resolve past trauma, how people struggle when they use shortcuts and other means to get ahead and of course… this season has explored the power of karma. If anything, this series is showing no signs of letting up with the brilliance it is putting on display this season. For its next set of episodes, opted to do something quite unique with its explorations in that, it wanted to also point out that sometimes, you can have in depth explorations about the human condition and still have a boatload of fun in the process.

For instance, ‘Meet the Belaskos’, was a story that featured a unique and quirky world where everyone knew that vampires were a thing, and most places weren’t cool with vampires being in their neighborhood. A problem for the Belaskos family, since they were pretty chill bloodsuckers that just wanted to find a permanent place to call home and earn a living for the rest of time. Which is indeed a pretty quirky tale that seems lighthearted in nature and seeing this family use blood products and talk about going to work and dealing with the mundane, was fun. As was the secondary subplot in this story. One that involved Anna, the daughter of the family, falling in love with Alex, the son of a staunchly anti-vampire individual. Which brought forth a cheeky love affair for the ages that made this more Romeo and Juliet than darkness.

But there was subtext to be found here, in that, this was in fact, a story about the horrors of prejudice and it's disgusting nature and how it brings about self-destruction. Which was made evident by the horrible things Alex’s dad said and did to the neighbors, and the various well… racist propaganda dispersed around town asking vampires to stay away and how ‘their kind’ weren’t welcome. Which is clearly commentary on our modern world, and our inability to understand we are all one race and that in fact… we will see more collateral damage in every sense imaginable until we finally understand that. But that’s not something that immediately stands out thanks to the lighthearted nature of the plot, that truly serves to remind us that yes, a fluffy story can make learning fun since the dark lesson here never felt overwhelming.

As for the second vignette, ‘Cheat Code’, well that too seemed to be nothing more than a story grounded in the bizarre. Wherein we met Jeff and his son Dave, who clearly weren’t interacting all that much, seemingly because of the divide that teenagers and fathers share, so Jeff decided… to find common ground. Through video games no less, since Jeff was once a local champion on the joystick and that seemingly brought them closer. But alas, what Jeff didn’t know was that the game he chose to use as a bonding measure, carried with it something sinister. Specifically, the ability to pull its players into the game itself, and once they ran out of life in the game, they ran out of it in the real world as well. A move that proved terrifying since Dave was pulled into that digital world.
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Yet how that twist ends, and the little things that came before it, speak to a deeper theme here. One that revolved around the fact that Jeff and Dave were actually divided through the power of loss. For mom grew ill and passed away and well… Jeff was desperate to find a way to connect with this son so he could heal, so they could heal. Which meant this was a story about grief and how it claims us and how we sometimes immerse ourselves in other things to heal from it. And how that isn’t a healthy thing in the slightest. Alongside a road map on how to save those we love from being lost to it. Which made for a beautiful yet quirky tale that taught us a lot, without us ever knowing really. Because the wacky nature of the game kept us engaged.

But make no mistake about it, both of these tales were hardcore, intelligent horrors stories, wrapped in a fun façade. One that really did allow for us to be entertained and to laugh aloud at some of the wild moments present here. Because horror really can be fun, and it truly can put a smile on our faces and make us hoot and holler regarding the ugly stuff when the story is right, as evidenced here. Because who didn’t cheer when the blood began to flow in the first story, or chortle when the game started to chomp down upon its human players, despite the danger. If anything, this set of stories just reinforces the brilliance of Creepshow, since this is the kind of versatility that only the best shows out there can display, and it will be interesting to see what storytelling surprises await us as season two of this magnificent series continues along. Until next time, kiddies.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 205 of ‘SurrealEstate’. To revisit the previous episode, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike. Without the labor of the actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
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It is definitely safe to say that horror stories about hauntings, carry with them familiar concepts. In that, a restless spirit is often tied to a location or harbors its power from some kind of inanimate object that held great importance for them when they were alive. And that object is the only way to put them at rest or stop their reign of terror. Either by using the object to give them peace through burial or by destroying it and well, those concepts stick around because they work. They offer logic and power to the afterlife and give the story something solid to work with in order to end the haunting and bring forth joy to those who are tormented by the spirit.
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Which is why the SYFY series, SurrealEstate, is such an important show. Because it has from the very beginning, pondered upon what would horror and haunting stories would look like if they took more chances and strayed from formula from time to time. Which has given rise to refreshing stories and refreshing challenges that feature different types of hauntings, where the ghost needs something more than its teddy bear and/or its precious mirror to be smashed to find peace and well, it just so happens that the next episode of this storied series, took those explorations to a whole new level. For ‘Art & Science’ posed the possibility that perhaps ghosts can be tied to things that go far beyond our understanding. For instance, what if… the only way they could find release was through something creative?

Which was what Luke’s journey explored in this tale. Because an artist named Aurora, who moved to a lovely house by the sea to restart her life, was suddenly under fire from a terrifying spirit. One that left her messages and threats and even trapped Luke and Aurora in the house one fine night. And all of it seemed tied to an object, a painting in fact, but that was designed to fool us. For in reality, the spirit in question was the ignored soul of a bad artist’s late wife, and since she died long before a woman could have her agency… she needed Aurora to give her agency, a voice, and power… through art. Which Aurora was eventually able to do and that brought peace to the house at last, and a vastly different kind of ghost story for certain. Since this writer is hard pressed to think of a story where art inspired spiritual release. 

Yet there was more that this episode was eager to explore. Since August was summoned to the offices of his former employer. In part to be offered his old job once again, but also because… something weird was happening with an old project. For the Erebuster machine was designed to explore the mysteries of the universe and the afterlife and use math and science to see if there was one and if so, what it entailed and well… it was ready to report back to its master. And it was ready to cause trouble if it didn’t get to share what it discovered, so August settled in to hear its report and what it offered him… was powerful for certain. Since the machine basically figured out what August already knew, but also that what lie beyond was vast… and confusing. And that man does not need to think about such matters because it was too complex and for the dead to use to eternity to explore. So, instead, man should live and enjoy the less complex moments.

Which brought forth, a fascinating storyline, wherein a machine managed to touch what lies beyond and leaves us curious and that too was quite refreshing and original in nature. Since computers and science so rarely play a part in these stories, but this show found a way to make that work as well. In more ways than one thanks to that Susan surprise. But all of that serves as a reminder that this really is the most original ghost story to hit the airwaves in years, and this episode was simply brilliant. Courtesy of the refreshing concepts it sent our way. Since we really haven’t ever seen such explorations in this subgenre of horror, but they are welcome for certain and it will be interesting to see what other explorations await us in the weeks to come, as season two of this incredible show continues along. Until next time.