Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the vampire elicits a great deal of emotions from readers and viewers of their stories. For instance, there is a sense of awe and romance that accompanies these creatures, since they tend to be refined and magnificent individuals, who seem to have come to understand the wonder of projecting class and virtue. Yet at the same time, they elicit fear since they can go from refined and bougie to bloodthirsty nightmares that will tear someone’s throat out since they are in fact, a monster through and through. But what they rarely evoke, is a sense of pity, since those elements make it hard to feel that for a creature of the night. But that is starting to change. For the longer we watch Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire on AMC, the more pity we feel for these beings. 

For this series is quickly establishing the fact, that the vampire’s journey is one of pure tragedy. One where they lose more than they gain by becoming immortal. For with their humanity gone, and their sense of time skewed, they detach from their emotions while desperately trying to hang onto them, giving rise to ugly and cruel moments that only add to a mountain of trauma that has built up over decades. The kind that they seemingly can never escape and being trapped in a body at a specific age, that oft seems to remind them that they are in fact frozen in time with their worst memories and moments. Making them sorrowful beings that we should only feel pity for, and all of these elements are top of mind today, because they were all put on display in the next episode of the show. 

A feat that ‘I Want You More Than Anything In the World’ accomplished by taking us into the salad days in the world of vampires. After all, Claudia was now the star of a hit skit at the Théâtre des Vampires, and Louis was able to move as he pleased and continue to indulge in the wonder of his love of photography. Making this story seem less about such issues, and more about the dapper lifestyle the vampire leads. But soon, cracks formed in the foundation of joy both Claudia and Louis thought they had built. After all, Claudia soon began to lack in her performances, to the point where she was punished and threatened. All because… the luster faded over being a star was replaced with a cruel reminder of the fact she was a 14-year-old girl for all time now and that was getting harder and harder to reconcile and she wasn’t alone in struggling with the wonder of immortality. 

Because Louis was frustrated over the fact that he wasn’t learning new skills fast enough and wasn’t seen as much more than an amateur photographer that would likely never find the wonder of the eye that so many famous photographers enjoyed. Not to mention, the ghost of Lestat continued to haunt and terrify him, to the point where he felt the need to finally let go because of the pain Lestat brought him, so he did not end up like Armand. Who spoke to the pain in his heart that never left him. Courtesy of a powerful moment where he explored his backstory with his new love. One that spoke to the horrors of his youth and how the moment his life changed forever locked that horror in place. Speaking to a real trauma that vampirism creates, and to top it all off… trouble arose in this tale. Since Santiago worked to turn the troupe upon Armand for his own power play, and Daniel of course… has more questions in present day regarding Armand’s intentions. 

All of which made, for a grand tragedy of a tale. One where all we could feel for these creatures… was outright pity. Because all of those elements we discussed were put on display in full and that really did showcase, a miserable group of creatures here. Trapped in their past, stuck with their sour memories and they cannot move forward because they are trapped in an endless cycle of violence that ruins them for all time. Which made for one powerful episode to say the least. One that informed us that being a vampire wouldn’t be cool, it would be pure hell on Earth. Wherein there would be no peace and power, just real suffering and a desperate search for the next meal while keeping a close eye over one’s shoulder for the next usurper desperate to take one’s place in the name of agency and to desperately feel something outside of the suffering.

Which also makes this… a game changing tale. One that finally showcased the horrors of vampirism in a manner that felt realistic and poignant. All by informing us that our worst demons would linger because we would no longer have anything to work for or a clock to race against. And all of this came forth via some stunning performances. Since everyone here turned in their A-game and expressed their internal torture with a gravitas that worked and added to the pity surging in our stomachs, and this truly motivates a viewer to continue the journey. For this is indeed undiscovered country for vampire stories, since we’ve never seen the horrors of becoming a bloodsucker be put on display in this manner and that will make the wait for next week’s episode as painful as can be. For now, and we must know if these creatures can be saved or if they will use reinvention to bury their trauma further to find a reason to go on… when they have in many ways, given up on what really makes life worth living… that growth that truly defines us. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘In a Violent Nature’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that slasher films operate within a very specific formula in this day and age. One that was forged in the era of Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, and Michael Myers. Wherein a group of teenagers come to discover a great evil or twisted bloodlust and must fight to survive on a horrifying night. Wherein they learn about themselves, what they are made of and of course… how best to defeat the monster that hunts them. Usually through a ton of research that reveals a weakness they can exploit, one that will come at a cost as they fight for their lives because in the end, it’s either them or the monster. 
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Which is a formula that works well and has served the subgenre equally as well for decades on end. Since it allows for the monster to return because their mythos extends well beyond one discovery, and it gives rise to some intense tales filled to the brim with gore and guts and jump scares. But it does leave one to wonder, if by chance the slasher will ever see an evolution of sorts. The kind that other monsters have enjoyed in recent years. After all, the zombie continues to evolve in storytelling on television, and the vampire is having a renaissance as well by becoming less sparkly and by embracing the evil they are capable of. But the slasher seemingly keeps on, slashin’ on, but it would indeed seem its moment of evolution has arrived, courtesy of a new slasher feature from Shudder and IFC Films that hits theaters today. 

Simply because, In a Violent Nature, is a downright revolutionary slasher feature. One that outright surprises us in every way imaginable. A reality made possible, by way of quite the deceptive plot. Because at first glance, this appears to be just another slasher. After all, we are introduced to a group of college kids that disrespect the final resting place of a man known as Johnny. Who suffered in life and supposedly made people pay for his suffering, and sadly, by messing with his grave… he wakes from a long slumber and seeks out those who desecrated his resting place, and took items from it and well, that is pretty standard slasher fare. The kind that works within a mythos, gives us the backstory and the answer to putting Johnny down for all time.

Which in essence, is a plot that makes the viewer quite comfortable, since this really does feel like an old shoe and a grand homage since the film is shot in the old 1:33.1 ratio found in some classic 70s slashers. But that’s where… things quickly change, and the surprises come into play. Such as the fact that this entire story is told from the perspective of the killer himself. Which we just haven’t seen before. Since men like Johnny are always lurking presences, waiting to strike and their appearance is to set the stage for the horror. But here, he’s the one we spend time with, and we come to learn about the patience of a monster like him, and the slow and methodical way in which they kill and that makes… for some unsettling moments.
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Because just like that, you’re plunged into his anger, his desire and his need to kill and kill he does. With an impunity that brings forth the next surprise in this feature. Specifically… the brutal nature of the kills. For Johnny holds nothing back when it comes to his rage and his bloodlust, and that makes us privy to every horrific moment as he takes a life in the most creative and savage manner possible. Which only adds to this uncomfortable ride, one that can only be compared to an outright nightmare. The kind where you are but the helpless passenger, forced to watch atrocities unfold and you simply cannot wake up. Which makes this, an absolutely magnificent and utterly brilliant horror film. One that is savage and cruel yes, but truly takes us into new territory for this type of film. 

For we truly garner new perspective, and we truly come to respect the slasher like never before. Since we learn here, they are… unstoppable, and patient forces of nature that absolutely need to complete their goal. Which makes them something to be feared again since Johnny doesn’t speak… he just kills and kills well and that only adds to the majesty of this incredible horror feature. One that also harbors amazing performances since it takes skill to pull off this kind of demented and vicious silence, and Ry Barrett accomplishes that with minimal effort as Johnny, and the rest of the cast only sells his fury, all of which adds to the revolutionary nature of this story. One that embraces new angles and holds nothing back in its desire to make this unstoppable monster a true fixture of terror once again.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 204 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular truth about horror stories, is that the monsters that populate the genre, will rarely deal with the complications and problems that everyday people do. They won’t deal with the fear that accompanies losing one’s job, they won’t experience depression and anxiety. They won’t have their hearts broken and nor will they deal with the power of grief. For they are something otherworldly, something powerful… and they have in many ways transcended the need for emotion and the need to grow from that. Or… they simply could be incapable of such thoughts because they are no longer human in the traditional sense. But one way or another, you just don’t see zombies, vampires, werewolves and other such creatures, deal with the stuff we do.  

Which is why this week’s episode of Reginald the Vampire on SYFY is of note. Simply because, ‘Watch the Sunrise’ outright did the impossible and forced otherworldly beings to deal with their humanity and the emotions and problems we all do. A feat that this story accomplished, by having Claire deal with genuine tragedy. For one fine morning, hours before a grandiose trip to see the sunrise at a beautiful location with her newly reformed family… she came to discover that her mother had passed away in the middle in the night. Which brought her great shock, since she thought there was nothing critically wrong, but alas… her dad informed her that Amy was sick with a form of cancer and that he was trying to save her from this very fate, and bailed out quickly because he thought he failed everyone.

But he didn’t. Time had run out and nature had taken its course and well… just like that… we were able to explore new territory within the genre. Since this episode basically asked, how would a being with otherworldly powers deal with loss and grief? And the answer to that question… was not well. Simply because Claire could not understand how this happened being surrounded by so many powerful creatures. Much less, the fact that she had incredible powers of her own that should have helped her to save her mother from such a piddly mortal fate and well, that plunged her… and everyone around her… into a sorrowful place. Wherein each of them was reminded of the precious nature of life, and how little control we have over our fates, including the undead. 

After all, they too were facing some serious trouble on the horizon with Bolestro preparing to wipe them out and well, all of this allowed for a powerful exploration to take place. One that offered that powerful lesson, explored the importance of truly cherishing the moment with those we love since we don’t know when our number is up… alongside a revolutionary look at how these transformed humans… would indeed struggle with grief and be hit by it harder because of their transformation. But it also pointed out that… they could get through it, via community and via care and by perhaps using their powers collectively to help a being with such powers… process the pain. Which Uriel helped do here for Claire by giving her a chance to properly say farewell to her mother with a quick visit to the afterlife.  

All of which made, for one incredible and powerful tale. One that truly took the audience by surprise with its philosophy and outright genius. Because this is just groundbreaking stuff for the genre, that we simply don’t see but clearly should. Especially now in this era of elevated horror since stories like this, can help so many in need. But genius aside, there was plenty more to celebrate about this tale. Since it also finally revealed what Uriel and his companion came to Earth for, and the fact that Bolestro has a child on a mortal plane, is a big deal and will undoubtedly come up down the line. But for now, we can offer up a round of applause for one moving and brilliant story. One that tackled one hell of a topic in a manner that was moving and poignant, and it will be interesting to see what other storytelling surprises await us as season two of this magnificent series continues along. Until next time. 

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One unfortunate truth that we all must face when we begin to search for true meaning within our soul or try to learn about who we are as a person, is that we won’t always like what we uncover. Because the truth is a painful thing to confront and it can humble, terrify and outright leaves us listless when we learn it. Which is why that particular search for personal truth… can take a very long time. For we must process that which we’ve discovered and that which we don’t like and enact change or seethe within what we’ve learned. Not to mention, sometimes… what we learn externally can also shock us and leave us wondering how we proceed from that point on, knowing what we know. 

If anything, this particular truth is top of mind today, simply because it showed up in the next episode of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire on AMC. A feat that ‘No Pain’ accomplished by informing the audience and our broken friends, that Louis and Claudia’s potential integration into a society where they hoped they would belong… might not be possible. For the world they are a part of is indeed as dangerous and as sour as they both feared. All of which came forth, by way of unfortunate truth after unfortunate truth. Such as how, the modern vampire came to be… by allowing for a true monster to shape its future and its appearance. By way of Lestat and Armand meeting long before Louis was even a glimmer in his mother’s eye.

For Lestat was the one who believed that the vampire could be more than a filthy creature that only lurked in the dark. They could be masters of their universe and enjoy the spoils of screwing with humanity and they could also take full advantage of mankind’s economic system to benefit vampirekind and bolster their world. And Armand embraced this idea and with Lestat, gave rise to the iconic Théâtre des Vampires and the rest, as they say is history. History that deeply unsettled Louis in his early days with Armand. Simply because it opened old wounds, and left him wondering with great worry, what other influence Lestat had upon the vampires that were so eager to welcome him and Claudia into the coven. 

Because he was worried that they might have adopted the two-faced, narcissism that Lestat was known for and well, his time with Armand allowed for him to press upon that and well, that’s when ugly truths came to life. Such as the fact that Louis had not completely healed yet from his traumatic time with Lestat and he felt weak and embarrassed because of that. When he had hoped this journey would show him strength and grace. Leaving him beside himself in a manner we have not seen from him for some time now. A sequence that proved that sometimes… our hard truth is that we haven’t moved as far along as we might like and we will need more time to be where we want to be, and that is both humbling and frustrating in so many ways. 
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Not to mention, Claudia learned a horrifying lesson about the truth she was searching for. For she so desperately wanted to belong and find peace within her own kind, in a manner where they weren’t pure trash like Lestat or the horrific nightmares that she saw in Romania and for a time, she thought she had found what she was looking for. Since she was to be inducted, and she was taught the ways of her newfound bloodsucking club and was treated with respect. But when the day came, and she took her vows, she came to learn she was just another pawn. Seen as a kid over an equal, and she would play that part to a tee, adding real horror into her heart since she learned what we all never want to learn about those we wish to belong to… that we don’t belong at all and are around to serve a purpose for their needs over our own.

Which means, that real trouble has found this duo, since it won’t be long before the others learn what Armand learned about Lestat, and since… Claudia won’t be able to handle her new role. Also, there’s trouble brewing in present day since Daniel has been contacted by someone who is eager to learn more about the vampire and well, all of those elements set the stage for an ugly rest of the season. One that will perhaps remind us that this is more tragedy than anything else, since Louis has seen such sweet sorrows in his time on Earth. The kind that could indeed put him on a strange and pained path for all eternity. But in the here and the now all we can do is wait for next week’s episode, and the slow descent it seems to have planned for us as a heartbreaking dusk awaits our tragic friends in their seemingly fruitless quest to find peace and happiness and normalcy in the vampire world. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 203 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular moment we hope to never face, but absolutely will… is the end of our lives. Which is a glum thought to have, but it’s quite the truth. Because somehow, someway… we will come to understand that our life is finite, and our time here is limited and that is often through a brush with mortality or staring it down as the end draws near and that can be… quite the sobering and powerful experience. Because it prompts us to take inventory and try to reconcile whether or not we’ve done enough in life this to die happy and content and if not… ponder upon what must be done to rectify that. Because no one wants to step into what lies beyond without some measure of pride and peace and well, this particular moment is top of mind today, because it was featured in a very unique manner during this week’s episode of Reginald the Vampire on SYFY.

Thanks to the fact that Reginald, and his blood-sucking buddies were facing the end in ‘The Truth About the Truth’. Because despite trying to get some understanding of how to reason with Bolestro and/or defeat the Angel Army… they came up empty handed and that… put that moment on display. Which in turn allowed for us to just learn how people try and handle that moment and we came to learn… that some… see it as an opportunity. Because Reginald saw this, as a chance to turn the vampire nation around. For it they could show capacity for good, for love, for all the things that keep humanity worth saving, then perhaps they could find salvation. Which was a pretty positive mindset to step into, one that would indeed… allow for Reginald to find value and worth before the end and he decided it best that Angela would be his test subject and uh… yeah… that went about as well as one might think.

Because Angela, wanted no part of being trained to be good. Because she’d seen it all, done it all, and had truly found her agency at this point. So, she pushed back on everything Reginald wanted, to keep that agency and to keep fear at bay. But that only went so far, because the thought of the end, after so many years of fighting for agency and fighting to survive… was more than she could bear. So, Angela resorted to some dark acts around town to, in a way, live undead life to the fullest before the days ran out. All of which spoke to how sometimes… facing the end is scary and will prompt us to freak out and act out. To the point where we are foolish and need someone to rein us in, which Maurice was able to do. But this all made for some powerful storytelling, the kind that wasn’t resolved in the slightest. It was just a moment, a reflection of how people genuinely respond to such matters, and it was powerful television for certain.

But while that made for a fascinating exploration on such matters, this series loves to pack in storylines and musings and to break up the powerful pondering in front of us, this episode also harbored a tale of forgiveness and healing. Since Nikki was paying a deep psychological price for killing an angel, and found what she needed badly, through love and understanding, and that made for a lovely little vignette. Not to mention, Sarah finally met an angel face to face, since Uriel filled in while Reginald and Ashley dealt with their problems. Prompting him to unveil his wings to offer honesty and help to Sarah at a stressful time. Which could lead to a different crisis, and of course, Reginald had hoped to tell her that truth, in person and in private. To try and smooth things over and quell his own facing death crisis. Since he happened to be the individual that also… goes the extra mile to find that peace, just in case.

All of which made for one brilliant tale. One that truly showcased a scary moment in our lives in the raw, to point out that we all react differently to the truth about our fate and the show may explore what follows that initial shock in greater detail down the line. Because despite pondering upon a great possible fix for redemption, the outlook for the vampire nation doesn’t look that bright. Because sadly, they have grown selfish, and vain, and really only look out for themselves and ripping apart generations of that is no easy task. Which means this story could explore all kinds of powerful moments revolving around facing the end, such as how we reconcile it when it draws near, and how we find that peace, regardless of the track record. Because that’s all we want in the end, just a peaceful farewell. But truth be told, we’re all hoping for a happier ending and a way out, but in horror… all bets are off, and it will be interesting to see where this story takes us in the weeks to come with everything hanging in the balance. Until next time.

It really is quite the lovely time to be a fan of The Walking Dead Universe. Because now that the franchise is free and clear of the confines of the comic book, it is offering up some of the most amazing zombie stories we’ve ever seen. After all, Daryl Dixon is giving us a fascinating look at life around the world under the rule of the dead, complete with a powerful journey for Daryl that is helping him grow like never before. Also, The Ones Who Live was an outright masterpiece that brought an end to one of the scariest aspects of the franchise, the Civic Republic Military, while also allowing for Rick Grimes and Michonne to go new places emotionally as characters.
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Plus, Dead City finally took us into the heart of a thriving undead metropolis. By allowing for us to see what New York City transformed into after the dead made it their home, and season one also explored the echoes of trauma that Negan and Maggie carry from their experiences together in the flagship show. Which makes for an enriching and unique story, one that obviously we are dying to enjoy more of and that’s another big reason it is such a great time to be a fan. Because AMC Networks knows the fans need a little sampling, in between shows, to keep them going and that’s brought forth year-round news on the franchise, and wonderful trailers and sneak peeks, like the one that hit the web today.

For earlier, AMC released a behind-the-scenes look at season two of The Walking Dead: Dead City, which is in production now, and we are here to share that sampling of season two, and some updated details on year two of Maggie and Negan’s Manhattan adventures… with all of you. Because we know you’re eager to take part in all the gifts that AMC bestows upon the loyal fans of this incredible and beloved franchise.

‘AMC Networks released a behind-the-scenes look at production on the second season of The Walking Dead: Dead City, premiering in 2025 on AMC and AMC+. The hit series in the Walking Dead Universe stars Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Lauren Cohan as the fan-favorite characters “Negan” and “Maggie.”
 
The Walking Dead: Dead City follows the popular Maggie (Cohan) and Negan (Morgan) characters traveling into a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, long ago cut off from the mainland. The crumbling city is filled with the dead and denizens who have made New York City their own world full of anarchy, danger, beauty, and terror.
 
In season two, in the growing war for control of Manhattan, Maggie and Negan find themselves trapped on opposite sides. As their paths intertwine, they come to see that the way out for both is more complicated and harrowing than they ever imagined.
 
The series also stars Gaius Charles, Željko Ivanek, Mahina Anne Marie Napoleon, Lisa Emery, Logan Kim and Kim Coates, amongst others. Eli Jorné, who has been a writer and co-executive producer on The Walking Dead for multiple seasons serves as showrunner and executive producer on the series, along with Scott M. Gimple, chief content officer of The Walking Dead Universe, Cohan, Morgan, Brian Bockrath, Michael Satrazemis and Colin Walsh.’

One thing that we often forget when it comes the many streaming services that we enjoy, is that it takes a lot to bring us the entertainment we crave. It takes a fleet of writers, directors, and other creatives to assemble the shows and movies we love, and we don’t talk enough about the fact that it takes certain executives to even bring those creatives to bear. For someone does have to approve a project or say yes to some kind of licensing and that’s important to note. Because those folks work hard, and try their best to really please us, and well… that’s why one of those individuals is enjoying quite the promotion.
 
For recently, Shudder announced that Emily Gotto, who was responsible for bringing the brilliant, Late Night with the Devil, among other epic titles to horror’s best streamer… has been promoted Emily to Senior Vice President of Acquisitions & Production for Shudder and that’s huge and wonderful news. For it informs us that someone with a keen eye, that understands the wonder of horror, and has worked hard to make sure Shudder has the best of the genre, will make sure that quality tales of terror continue to permeate Shudder’s fabric for ages to come. And well… to properly celebrate this news… here are all the details on Emily’s well-deserved promotion, courtesy of Shudder. 
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‘AMC Networks announced today that Emily Gotto has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Production for Shudder, the company’s premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural.  In this expanded role, Gotto, who is based in the UK, will lead film acquisitions and production for Shudder Original films and co-productions and continue to report to Scott Shooman, Head of the AMC Networks’ Film Group, encompassing IFC Films, RLJE and films for Shudder.
 
Said Shooman: “Emily has been instrumental in elevating the Shudder brand within the genre community and bringing some of the most talented storytellers from this space to the service, as we continue to seek out and showcase titles that underscore the breadth of horror. She has a filmmaker-first mentality and is always looking for what’s new and next to deliver something unexpected and something she knows will deeply resonate with Shudder’s passionate members. I’m excited to continue working alongside her in bringing the best of horror to Shudder.”
 
“It's been an honor to work with such passionate and dedicated colleagues at Shudder, IFC and RLJE, bringing some of the greatest horror storytellers to audiences via the big and small screens. Every day we continue to grow as a brand, distributing the widest variety of breakout and established genre talent. I’m very excited to continue to be part of Shudders evolution in what is a very exciting time for the genre.” 
 
Gotto’s recent acquisitions and productions include the recent hit LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL, which, following its record-breaking box office theatrical debut, became the streamer’s most watched and biggest acquisition driving film of all time; Demian Rugna’s breakout film WHEN EVIL LURKS; Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK; SXSW Audience-winning ODDITY by Damien McCarthy; and Sébastien Vanicek’s INFESTED. During her time at Shudder, Gotto has worked with a number of acclaimed directors, including Issa Lopez, Chloe Okuno, Flying Lotus, Jayro Bustamante, Coralie Fargeat, Josh Ruben, David Bruckner, Radio Silence, Scott Derrickson, Johannes Roberts, Joko Anwar and Laura Moss, among others. 
 
About AMC Networks
AMC Networks (Nasdaq: AMCX) is home to many of the greatest stories and characters in TV and film and the premier destination for passionate and engaged fan communities around the world. The company creates and curates celebrated series and films across distinct brands and makes them available to audiences everywhere. Its portfolio includes targeted streaming services AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK and HIDIVE; cable networks AMC, BBC AMERICA (operated through a joint venture with BBC Studios, which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv; and film distribution labels IFC Films and RLJE Films. The company also operates AMC Studios, its in-house studio, production and distribution operation behind acclaimed and fan-favorite originals including The Walking Dead Universe and the Anne Rice Immortal Universe; and AMC Networks International, its international programming business.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Nightwatch: Demons Are Forever’.
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It really is quite amazing how hyper intelligent and emotional the horror genre has become. Granted, it’s always been brilliant, since this is the same genre that pondered upon our odd puritan-esque relationship with sexuality via the slasher’s films of the 1980s, alongside offering up amazing commentary on our obsessions with things via George Romero’s Dawn of the Dead. But over the last decade or so, the genre really has taken quite the turn and leaned into far more powerful concepts and explorations. Giving rise to stories that pluck upon different emotional strings and fears and the genre is better for it. Because it is allowing for something special to take place.

For instance, anyone that enjoyed the masterpiece that is Doctor Sleep, was able to ponder deeply upon the nature of generational trauma and the power of substance abuse and how that too is generational in nature. Allowing for anyone that perhaps didn’t resolve such matters, to have their wake-up call and perhaps go and speak to someone about such matters after seeing Danny Torrance suffer through the unresolved. Giving rise to a story that influenced actual impact on such matters, something horror has wanted to do for ages upon end and truly, it is showing no signs of slowing down on such matters. For Shudder is now home to a powerhouse horror sequel that digs into more new territory regarding the traumas we carry in Nightwatch: Demons Are Forever.

A feat that this film accomplishes, by taking us thirty years after the events of the original Nightwatch feature. Wherein we come to learn that while Martin started a family with his beloved Kalinka after the monster was locked away… the years were not kind to them. In large part because Kalinka opted to take her own life over the nightmare of being hunted in that manner, and Martin… is forever locked in the pain of that loss and of that night as well. Which means that Emma, their daughter, is in a tough place. For she wants desperately to start her own tomorrow and forge her own path… but knows that will devastate her father. Which prompts her to make a stunningly bold move. In that, she decides to visit the monster that tormented her family, to put an end to dad’s worries once and for all. But there is one problem with this decision. In that, it has awakened the monster and people that support him and now… he and his cohorts will stop at nothing, to finish the job started thirty years ago.

Which is the perfect way to explore… how generational trauma is something we sometimes accept into our own lives, willingly no less. Because now and again, we will see parents, guardians, and people we love suffer greatly from the pain they carry, and in doing so… we adopt it… cherish it and own it. All out of the belief that our innocence and perspective on such matters can help heal them, when in fact… this creates more harm than good. For it brings us down, it makes us enablers and in turn, brings about fresh life to an old pain that needs to die. Which means that this film is more about how, we cannot accept our parent’s pain. We can acknowledge it, we can help them find a path to resolution, but we can never own it, or we will suffer some devastating emotional consequences.   
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That makes, for a smart feature for certain, one that features some delightful horror elements as well. Because the return of the monster is a real treat here and adds unique depth to the story, as does who is cohorts are. Since that also in many ways, bookends the central theme and shows how far we can sink if we accept the sins of our father as our own. But that aside, it also leads to some amazingly spooky moments. The kind that are downright gothic and chilling in nature, and that brings about some stunning jump scares, some equally as stunning twists and above all… some shocking kills. Because the monster makes sure his work lives on here, and that leads to sequences that leave us uncomfortable. In part because we know what suffering is about to arrive.

All of which brings together a very satisfying sequel to a classic horror story. One that also works well if by chance you haven’t seen the original, since the blanks are filled in smoothly here. But for those who are here to see what thirty years did to Martin, you are treated to a complete second chapter. One that is intelligent, spooky and downright engaging through and through. Courtesy of powerful moments and reflective commentary that gives one plenty to ponder upon, and hopefully allows for those who might want to be free of their parent’s burdens… to take action. So that they don’t find themselves in a similar quagmire here. Where suffering is the order of the day and where the past finds ways to transcend the years and brings about more harm to a new generation.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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It is quickly becoming apparent, that season two of the beloved AMC series, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, is planning on taking us on quite the intimate and powerful, and downright unique journey. One that will reflect upon some very important moments in the human experience through the lens of a monster, really. Which will allow for us to view them in a fascinating manner, one that is both detached and intimate in nature. Which will in turn offer up fascinating new perspective on who we are, what we could be and for proof that this is going to be the case, well then look no further than last night’s outright brilliant episode.

For ‘Do You Know What It Means to be Loved by Death’ took the time to ponder upon how we heal after going through a traumatic experience and how we find a way to return to life, and it accomplished such a feat… by having Louis and Claudia, settle into life in Paris. Wherein Louis explored such matters first. Since he simply took time to process the tragedy he experienced at the hands of his abusive lover, and quite literally used an objective view of the world, through photography, to find the perspective on the matter he needed. Which truly informed us… that is what we must do post trauma. Take inventory, process it, and come to understand how we weren’t responsible for what brought darkness upon us, we were just caught up in a maelstrom and that did help Louis heal. 

As did, quite the encounter. Because finally, Louis met Armand in this tale, and in doing so… was invited into the Theatres des Vampires in the city to meet… the local coven and learn the rules and be faced with some of the horrors of being a vampire. After all, it was commonplace here to use illusion and storytelling to lull an audience into a twisted vampire tradition. Wherein an innocent victim would be killed on stage without anyone being the wiser since the audience was drunk and fooled, a move that gave the vampires food and great delight. But what mattered more in this moment, was the sheer fact that this crew knew Lestat, and that prompted Louis to confront his past and try and learn that the monster was gone, which according to all the facts… he was. 

All of which, showcased how we heal, on an accelerated timeframe of course, since this could take years… but how we do it none the less. Whereas Claudia’s journey took the time to ponder upon how we integrate ourselves back into the world when we’ve been wounded deeply. So, we can find agency, and restart life properly and well, the answer to that was simple… we get out there and live. Because it was Claudia that made sure she and Louis spent as much as possible in the theater. To make new friends, to learn about their culture and the creatures they’d become and well… that was indeed the simplest lesson of the night to explore. Since they found themselves out of the shadows into the vampire’s light. But one that came with a cautionary tag of course. Because while it is important to get out, live, find ourselves and find what we want… we must be mindful of who we do it with. 
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Because not everyone we spend time with and befriend is good or has our best interests in mind, and this troupe of vampires are indeed cause for concern. Since they eagerly brought out Claudia’s bloodlust and while they hunt human trash, their cruelty and their desire to toy with humans in such a twisted manner… is worrisome. All of which will be carefully watched and fawned over by an audience, that received some amazing lessons in this tale. The kind that really did speak to the subject matter in a haunted and wild way, since we don’t see vampires go through trauma and healing, but it was here, and it added gravity to the story and the journey. Not to mention, the horror elements were simply top notch in this tale. For the finale of the stage play was chilling to say the least, and the finale of this story was brilliant.

For this story understood that the audience needed something a little twisted and little wild to brighten the mood and keep the subject matter from overwhelming. And watching Armand and Louis talk philosophy and life and what steps lie ahead to fit into the group better, while carnage and screams and headless corpses meandered about, was the stuff of horror legend. All of which made for one fantastic tale. One that added incredible depth to an already rich story and truly leaned into the wonder and the horror of the vampire, and well… now that Louis and Claudia are embedded in a bold new world with strange new friends… it will be interesting to see what other changes and lessons await them as season two of this magnificent story continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 202 of ‘Reginald the Vampire’. To revisit the Season Two Premiere, click here.
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It really is quite amazing what the hit SYFY series, Reginald the Vampire, is accomplishing right now. For not only does the show continue to cement its status as one of the best horror comedies out there, thanks to the quirky reality of having a Slushy Jockey transform into a creature of the night, but it is also showcasing how valuable the vampire subgenre can be to the horror landscape. Since this series continues to explore unique corners of the human condition and life, and offer lessons along the way, stuff that is normally reserved for other monsters in the genre. But this show really is something special and it is showing no signs of slowing down regarding those explorations, as evidenced by this week’s tale. For ’30 Days’ used some very relatable moments to ponder deeply upon the importance of keeping an open mind in all things.

Because when we don’t… we rush into things and potentially push away opportunity, and several key characters explored all of that. Since Sarah found herself at a crossroads over learning that angels were real, because she truly wanted to live in a world where the supernatural wasn’t a possibility, to leave her past behind and in doing so… may have gutted an opportunity to confront and make peace with that past much sooner in life. Not to mention, Claire almost lost out on a chance to have a family life, since we learned her dad is an Incubus, (a shape shifting demon) that wanted to be near her, and she was so hellbent on sticking with the narrow path of punishing him that she almost missed out on getting to know a solid monster and having what she wants. All because of that closemindedness. Plus, Todd almost rushed into vampirism because he truly thought it was mystical and magical over anything else… but thankfully Mike took the time to showcase why it was such a big decision and what it would actually entail. 

But while it was indeed fascinating to learn how being openminded would have given Sarah peace sooner, and helped Claire to understand how she can be whole, and helped Todd make his decision a little slower… there were still more deep lessons to be found. Since Reginald and Maurice’s journey pondered deeply upon the importance of claiming agency when we step into new chapters in our lives. To help us find confidence and settle in, and that came forth because this episode featured Maurice’s first meeting as Deacon of the Vampires. A meeting complete with a ceremony that included the most ridiculous hat ever, and a butt load of pushback from his new subjects. For old school vampires are petty, we learned, and were ready to push Maurice around to get their way. But both he and Reginald stood firm to their edict of a new path and stepped up in that moment and claimed their power, and for their efforts, garnered respect at last. 

All of which made for a fascinating and magnificent episode. One that was grounded in amazingly real concepts and featured some good laughs. Because seriously, that hat was ridiculous. Like, how can someone even wear that thing without having a major neck injury, vampire or not? But that aside… this series is always eager to offer up a juicy story, and some serious conflict, and it used one last lesson to bring that about. Because in the closing moments of this tale, we came to learn that the man that Reginald saw in his dreams last week, was a powerful angel. One named Bolestro and he… had a bone to pick with the vampires of the world. For he felt that these creatures wasted so many good opportunities to be something special, and that they all needed to be slaughtered, and well… they had 30 Days before that was going to happen. Which of course… is a revelation that ties to quite the simple lesson.

In that, when our gut tells us something is wrong, we should listen. Or in this case, Reginald should have listened. All of which sets the stage for a fierce second season where our heroes will face off against an enemy that seems to be outright invincible, since Bolestro brushed off harm with ease, and well… one cannot help but wonder if by chance… Reginald and Maurice’s desire to make the vampire world, better, might be the saving grace/counter punch needed to save them all. Provided of course… they can change the (cold and dead) hearts and minds of a very spoiled class of monster. But while we wait to see, we can celebrate one intelligent episode. One that really did offer up some lovely and applicable lessons for all of us, the kind that are likely swirling about our minds today. All courtesy of a show that understands the potential of the vampire story, and it will be interesting to see what other