If there is one particular horror celebration that every horrorphile enjoys in this life, it would have to be Shudder’s “Halfway of Halloween” extravaganza. For the streamer just loads up on spooky stories during that timeframe, the kind that truly wow us and leave us eager for more scares and more blood and guts, and everything in-between. But alas, we’ve yet to hear about this year’s lineup for the event, since Shudder has been extra quiet about it, to likely build up some of that good old-fashioned anticipation. But that changed earlier today.
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For Shudder let it be known that Baghead, a horror feature based off of the short of the same name from Director Alberto Corredor will be making its exclusive debut during this year’s “Halfway to Halloween” horror-thon on April 5, and well… what an amazing announcement this is. Because that was a well-received short, and a feature length version of it, will be nothing short of epic. And to properly celebrate this announcement and build a real buzz for the film, Shudder was also kind enough to share the trailer for the film, and a synopsis, which we will now share with all of you. As we begin to count down the days to the release of this highly anticipated feature, and that wondrous celebration.

‘The supernatural horror BAGHEAD, from director Alberto Corredor, will make its exclusive debut Friday, April 5 on Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Produced by STUDIOCANAL and The Picture Company, BAGHEAD is a full-length feature adaptation of Corredor’s indie short of the same name and will debut as part of the streamer’s “Halfway to Halloween” annual, monthlong horror-thon lineup. The film will also be available to stream on AMC+.
 
Following the death of her estranged father (Peter Mullan), Iris (Freya Allan) learns she has inherited a run-down, centuries-old pub. She travels to Berlin to identify her father’s body and meet with The Solicitor (Ned Dennehy) to discuss the estate. Little does she know, when the deed is signed, she will become inextricably tied to an unspeakable entity that resides in the pub’s basement–Baghead–a shape-shifting creature that can transform into the dead. Two thousand in cash for two minutes with the creature is all it takes for desperate loved ones to ease their grief. Neil (Jeremy Irvine), who has lost his wife, is Iris’ first customer. Like her father, Iris is tempted to exploit the creature’s powers and help desperate people for a price. But she soon discovers breaking the two-minute rule can have terrifying consequences. Together with her best friend Katie (Ruby Barker), Iris must battle to keep control of Baghead and figure out how to destroy her, before she destroys them.
 
“BAGHEAD is a tale of family secrets, the depths of grief, and the things best left undisturbed in the basement,” said Corredor. “I’m so excited to share this film with US audiences when it debuts on Shudder.” 
 
The deal was negotiated by Emily Gotto on behalf of Shudder and Chloe Marquet on behalf of STUDIOCANAL.
 
BAGHEAD was produced by STUDIOCANAL and The Picture Company’s Alex Heineman and Andrew Rona through their long-term deal with the European giant. Roy Lee and Jake Wagner are Executive Producers along with Alberto and Lorcan Reilly.  

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 Original Content is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Over the last few years, Shudder has introduced audiences to groundbreaking and critically acclaimed films including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Joko Anwar’s SATAN’S SLAVES, Josh Ruben’s SCARE ME, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna‘s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest in the V/H/S film anthology franchise, as well as the fan favorite TV series THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS. 
 
About AMC+  
AMC+ is the company’s premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, Orphan Black and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.  
 
About STUDIOCANAL (a CANAL+ Company)
STUDIOCANAL, a 100% affiliate of CANAL+ Group held by Vivendi, is Europe’s leader in production, distribution and international sales of feature films and series, operating in all nine major European markets - France, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Spain, Denmark and Benelux - as well as in Australia and New Zealand.  It finances and produces around 30 films per year, distributes around 80 films per year. It owns the largest library in Europe and one of the most prestigious libraries in the world, boasting more than 8 000 titles from 60 countries, spanning 100 years of film history. 20 million euros has been invested into the restoration of 750 classic films over the past 5 years. In addition, STUDIOCANAL also produces almost 20 series each year and operates at an international level by globally distributing its scripted productions and CANAL+ Originals (2,000 hours of current and library content in distribution). All productions take place directly through STUDIOCANAL entities or with its award-winning network of 14 production companies in Europe and in the United States (STUDIOCANAL Series, LAILAPS FILMS, RED PRODUCTION COMPANY, URBAN MYTH FILMS, BAMBÚ PRODUCCIONES, STUDIOCANAL ORIGINAL, 2e BUREAU, SUNNYMARCH TV, SAM Productions, DINGIE, KINO SWIAT, BIRDIE PICTURES, STRONG FILM & TELEVISION, THE PICTURE COMPANY).’

It is definitely safe to say that the first season of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, was quite revolutionary in nature. In large part because… it finally allowed for this story to truly reach its potential. For the original was muted in many ways by the era in which it was released. But in 2024, everything Anne wanted to explore can be explored and that allowed for a powerful first season to take place. One that showcased representation properly and of course, offered up a fresh take on this true classic, and it also left us eager for more of Louis’ sorrowful tale, which is a wait that is nearing its end.

For May 12, 2024, will see this dynamic series return to the airwaves and continue the adventure and the interview, and since we are so close and so eager for a sampling of things to come, AMC was kind enough to satiate our bloodlust with a taste of season two. For earlier, a super-sized trailer was released to the masses, one that will definitely build excitement and have us counting down the minutes until dusk, when Louis and Lestat can lurk about our televisions again. And well, since you’re in need of that trailer, here it is, alongside updated details on the show, courtesy of AMC.
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‘AMC Networks debuted the first extended trailer for season two of the critically acclaimed series Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire, premiering May 12, 2024 onAMC and AMC+, giving fans a dynamic look at the upcoming season. The series stars Jacob Anderson, along with Sam Reid, Eric Bogosian, Assad Zaman, Delainey Hayles and Ben Daniels.
 
The interview continues in season two. In the year 2022, the vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac (Anderson) recounts his life story to journalist Daniel Molloy (Bogosian). Picking up from the bloody events in New Orleans in 1940 when Louis and teen fledgling Claudia (Hayles) conspired to kill the Vampire Lestat de Lioncourt (Reid), Louis tells of his adventures in Europe, a quest to discover Old World Vampires and the Theatre Des Vampires in Paris, with Claudia. It is in Paris that Louis first meets the Vampire Armand (Zaman). Their courtship and love affair will prove to have devastating consequences both in the past and in the future, and Molloy will probe to get to the truths buried within the memories.
 
Season two of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire is executive produced by award-winning producer Mark Johnson, creator and showrunner Rolin Jones, Mark Taylor, along with Christopher Rice and the late Anne Rice.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we last settled in to discuss the phenomenal new AMC series, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, we talked at length about how the show outright surprised us. Simply by taking the time to feature what the franchise has not in some time, relevant social commentary. For this is a series that loves to explore the overall human condition and what makes us good, what makes us evil and what it might take for us to be a better species. So, to see ‘Bye’ ponder deeply upon modern concerns, such as how the world is currently being indoctrinated by the nonsense to make certain countries ‘great again’ was indeed quite shocking, and it led to an eye-opening tale.

One that really did explore how fear was the engine to this movement, since it is oft used to manipulate and transform everyday folks that lean on critical thinking, into terrified zombies that consume more lies and more fear. But of course, as zombie stories are wont to do, that really was as far as that exploration went. Largely because this subgenre of horror tends to lean toward having us figure out the solution through showing us the problem, and that is precisely why this week’s episode of the series, was just as shocking as last week’s tale. Simply because… ‘What We’ took the time… to offer up an answer as to how perhaps we pull people back from that fear. 

A feat that this story accomplished by first informing us that Rick and Michonne survived that surprise bail out from the CRM chopper, by landing in a body of water, one that was next to a living complex that still had power and creature comforts. And once this duo was inside, dried off and comfortable, they were able to fire off a few jabs at one another regarding some of their more recent concerns before taking a little time to rest and collect their thoughts and gameplan what was to come next. Which for Michonne, involved talking some sense into Rick to get him home and that hope grew when a surprise was revealed at daybreak.

In that, the chopper they flew in on, didn’t see the second building in this complex, and crashed into it. Which meant, the CRM would think that Major Sergeant Rick Grimes and Co-Signee Dana Bethune were dead. Allowing for immediate freedom for the two of them, the kind that would indeed just let them leave and enjoy life with their family at last. One that Rick learned had grown, courtesy of his son, RJ. But oddly enough, a golden ticket to freedom and a chance to meet and hold his son and his daughter with his wife at his side, still wasn’t enough to convince Rick to leave and go home and live a true dream. He wanted to fire up his beacon again and that led to great conflict with Michonne, and rightfully so.

Because Rick was being dumb, plain, and simple and that prompted Michonne to prepare to head home on her own and that... actually managed to light a fire under Rick. After all, he did miss her, love was there, and that prompted him to chase after her, amid chaos. Since the CRM came to destroy ‘the evidence,’ and that let in walkers and led to an epic, sass filled battle involving Rick and Michonne and the dead. One that ended with Rick standing by Michonne at the right moment, one that unlocked the feelings in his heart and amplified hers and that allowed for them to reconnect, physically, spiritually, and it also allowed for Michonne to finally reach the man she loved so deeply.
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For after they found one another again, Rick once more hinted at returning to his beloved Civic Republic Military to invoke change. Which in turn prompted Michonne to use some of Nat’s wise advice to finally cut through the nonsense and understand why this place was more important to Rick than Alexandria and what he and Michonne and their family were building. Which brought about a powerful admission. In that, the CRM used manipulation tactics to basically help Carl and Michonne’s memories to fade. Which in turn made Rick believe he had done something wrong to lose those images of his boy, of his love and once those were gone and he was at his lowest and felt as though he had nothing left, they sucked him in. Made him believe he could prevent that kind of loss from happening to anyone else, and that… is how he transformed. But Michonne was able to change that, and help him to see Carl, see love again, and understand… that those we love are never gone when we honor them through the fight that is life. Which prompted Rick to leave this behind… and go home. With his love.

Which meant at long last, this duo was on the road and heading home and we had quite the powerful lesson in hand. In that, a lot of what we are seeing happen around us, is a dehumanization of sorts. Wherein the basics of what makes us great, our ability to care for one another, to embrace community, and decency is being washed away by fear and rhetoric so that an, us versus them mentality exists when it’s all just us, really. But it can be undone, it can be fixed. When we find a way to understand common ground and what matters again. Such as say coming to learn that the promises of a politician, should never dictate how we live our lives. For they are not the ones we live for, we live for us, we live for the betterment of ourselves and our families because that’s what will change the world and give us a society where the ones who live are happy and loved.

All of which brought about, a powerful story to say the least, one that also impressed beyond its messaging, via a brilliant script written by Danai Gurira. Because this was also a story about the power of love, of how we should also express that at every turn because love is understanding and kind and also brings about healing. Plus, we would be remiss to not discuss the incredible acting present here. Because Andrew Lincoln and Danai Gurira just let loose here and offered us moving and powerful performances that captivated us from beginning to end, and left us with tears of joy and sorrow, and wonder. Which makes this a perfect episode, plain and simple. One that encapsulated the best parts of the franchise, these characters, and even the zombie sub-genre and now that we’ve reached the end of this magnificent tale, it will be interesting to see what lies ahead, now that this unstoppable force is reunited and ready for the next chapter in their lives. Until next time.

Sometimes reflecting upon old shows and old stories, allows for quite the immersive and moving experience. The kind that manages to take us right down memory lane in more ways than one. Simply because that story truly encapsulates the zeitgeist of an era, or a very specific moment in time. One we lived through and having that remembrace string plucked upon allows for a wash of memories to flood over us, the kind that are wonderful and warm and oddly enough, this particular truth is top of mind today, all because the next episode of Tales from the Darkside accomplishes just that. For ‘Comet Watch’ is a story that truly captured a unique moment in pop culture, courtesy of an equally unique story. 
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One that introduces us to a man named Engelbert Ames, who is reveling in excitement in this tale. For above in the sky, is the celestial wonder known only as Halley’s Comet and Engelbert wants nothing more on this night than to just observe its majesty, much to the chagrin to his wife Charlene, and well… to the chagrin of an unexpected visitor. For the telescope in his stead also harbors a portal to the comet itself and discovering that secret allowing for a woman named Lara Burns and Sir Edmond Halley to return to our world after spending 76 years in the cosmos. A reality that frustrates both Edmond and Lara since he wants back into space with Lara at his side as his love, and she wants none of that, and their desires will bring about a battle that will change fates on this night. 

Which is a story that immediately reminds anyone that lived in the 1980s of the massive Halley’s Comet craze, that gripped the world. For 1986 did see Halley’s Comet return, and it genuinely captivated the world through and through. For there were news reports about its return, and every science magazine and program offered up some kind of special regarding its long and winding journey through the endless cosmos. But more importantly, it captivated Hollywood as well. In fact, the buzz leading up to its return was so strong that the industry opted to capitalize on it in advance of its arrival, allowing for a trilogy of horror films revolving around the lethal arrival of a comet to play out.  

All of which immerses one in nostalgia if they lived through the moment, and it gives rise to an opportunity for unfamiliar viewers to explore the craze that accompanied this once in a lifetime moment. And it is something this article is focusing upon simply because… there’s not a lot of great things to discuss when it comes to this episode. Because it truly is one of those random experimental tales that uh… doesn’t deliver. Sure, it has some cool ideas, because the thought of people surviving on the comet is pretty wild and fantastical, but it’s deeply grounded in science fiction and really doesn’t offer anything scary or deep to ponder upon. If anything, the only real draw here is the acting. Since Anthony Heald and Fritz Weaver add gravitas to the story as Englebert and Edmond Halley, respectively. And Sarah Rush and Kate McGregor-Stewart balance out their performances nicely as Lara and Charlene.
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But we’d be remiss to not point out how weird it is that the story sells Halley as less of a scholar and more of a toxic, thirsty, lovelorn nightmare, when the man historically had a family and was not known for such gestures, and it really speaks to a failure of this story. One that sadly, could have been quite amazing. Because if by chance the creative team opted to go the route of Night of the Comet, Lifeforce, and Maximum Overdrive, and add something scary into this… we could have been treated to quite the classic Darkside tale. One that could have featured something truly monstrous, something truly evil, something that would have given us nightmares in the name of a twist to a longtime visitor to our solar system. But alas, we got a weird love story instead.

But that’s okay, because not every story in a season as long as this one can be a winner, and the show deserves some credit for trying something different and new. Because that’s what made Darkside so great and again, we can definitely celebrate the acting in this story and its bold nature to lean into romantic sci-fi over pure terror. But of course, not everyone will be happy with that, and that’s understandable. For this show promised terror and mayhem. But it is nice to know that at least care went into this tale, and that it does indeed invoke a powerful sense of nostalgia in those who grew up watching the series, one that hopefully they spread about via that aforementioned comet trilogy to bring balance to the misplaced sweetness of this tale. Until next time, try to enjoy the daylight. 

Something that is genuinely fascinating when it comes to modern television, is how many shows shy away from what can still be considered to be taboo and difficult topics. And what makes that so fascinating is that we are now in the year 2024, where we seem to have a better understanding of the fact that the world is a flawed place, where the bad things that happen to us are grounded in unique origin points that can be worked upon and prevented, and we need to acknowledge that reality and have conversations around the harm that is happening. So that it is recognized and discussed so we can bring about the end of such problems. 
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Granted, it is not completely up to television to solve our woes, but this is a medium that reaches so many and has in the past, tackled tough topics before and well, it is perhaps the past that can be looked to, to really garner a blueprint of how best to discuss such topics and believe it or not, a classic episode of Tales from the Darkside might aid in that. For back in the show’s second season, a particular story popped up that at first glance, was nothing more than a tale of irony, but upon deeper inspection, had a lot to say about mental health, the dangers of not treating it and the horrors of generational abuse.

Which are feats that ‘Monsters in My Room’ accomplishes by introducing us to a family in transition. For Helen has remarried and her new husband Biff, is struggling to connect with her son, Timmy. Which wouldn’t be of note, save for the fact that Biff… bullies his stepson around often. For he deems him soft, and feminine in nature, and believes that Timmy needs to be a man and fight like one, just like Biff did in Vietnam and well… that leads to tough times for Timmy. For now, he is constantly under fire from his stepdad during the day, and to complicate matters further, there are monsters lurking about his room that terrorize him at night, making it seem as though… poor Timmy is about to become a terrifying statistic. But thankfully, this story takes things in a vastly different direction, which we will discuss in just a moment.

Because what matters most here is that this episode presented, in an incredible manner, how we can use television to discuss big topics. And as evidenced here, we cannot shy away from it on the small screen, we must present it in an honest and earnest light, as was accomplished here. Since Biff’s actions, in all their terrifying glory, properly showcased PTSD and the dangers of not having it or mental health issues treated. Since it made Biff an abusive monster and that in turn allowed for another honest showcasing regarding generational trauma, and how repeated abuse creates new monsters, the kind that are eager to strike back as Timmy did here at the end of the story.
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But giving this to us in an honest light, and with a little horror chaser, made the lessons here palatable and poignant and worth discussing at home. And that’s just it, we need to start the discussions and this episode does that and really does offer a blueprint for how to do it at a time when television is ready to go full bore and tackle the tough stuff and expose it to the world. But of course, one cannot discuss this story without discussing its horror elements, which are equally as impressive as the commentary here. Because this is another one of those horror stories that preys on multiple childhood fears. Such as having our parents lose their temper with us, because we love them and want to be the best kid for them at a young age… alongside our fears of the dark.

Specifically, the things that we think go bump in the night, and the monsters here are simply sublime. For they are indeed the stuff of nightmares and only something a kid could conjure up in their mind and those moments are indeed creepy and intense and add to one amazing episode. One that was also ahead of its time for addressing two topics we BARELY discuss now, and it was anchored by some solid performances. With Seth Green leading the way as the conflicted and wounded Timmy and Greg Mullavey selling the scares as the out-of-control Biff, and well, now that we’ve reached the end of this wondrous and pioneering tale, it will be interesting to see what other trailblazing moments await us in season two. Until next time, try to enjoy the daylight.

March really is a special time of year. After all, warmth can be felt upon our skin again as the winter begins to slink into memory, courtesy of fresh sunlight that lifts our spirits. And of course, there are birds chirping, flowers are beginning to bloom, and everything just seems right in the world, for everyone really… and yes… that includes horror fans. Because every single spring over the past few years, Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Girl, return to the airwaves on Shudder and this year is no exception to that rule.
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For this Friday will kick off a super-sized sixth season of The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs. Complete with an amazing tribute episode to one of horror’s biggest names. Giving rise to something that every horror fan can enjoy through and through, making springtime all the more refreshing and to properly celebrate the return of this beloved show, Shudder was kind enough to drop a new trailer and some key art for this amazing new season at the drive-in. And we are here to share those treats and all the deets, as we inch toward the sixth season of this trailblazing series.

‘Shudder revealed today the trailer and key art for the supersized sixth season of The Last Drive-In, premiering Friday, March 15 at 9pm ET on Shudder TV and AMC+ TV. The season kicks off with a special, The Last Drive-In Live: A Tribute to Roger Corman, followed by all-new watch parties every other Friday at 9pm. The episodes will also be available on demand on Shudder and AMC+ each Sunday following the Friday broadcast premiere.
 
Recorded live from Las Vegas, Joe Bob celebrates legendary filmmaker Roger Corman’s first 70 years in Hollywood with The Last Drive-In Live: A Tribute to Roger Corman, featuring guests of honor Roger and Julie Corman - and a surprise visit from one of Roger’s oldest friends and collaborators, Bruce Dern. After the special, The Last Drive-In continues with Joe Bob’s signature movie watch parties on a biweekly schedule, featuring single feature spotlights and surprises.

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 Original Content is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Over the last few years, Shudder has introduced audiences to groundbreaking and critically acclaimed films including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Joko Anwar’s SATAN’S SLAVES, Josh Ruben’s SCARE ME, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna‘s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest in the V/H/S film anthology franchise, as well as the fan favorite TV series THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Three of ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One thing that horror fans can agree upon, is that the zombie subgenre really does the best job of offering up social commentary on the human condition and our modern world. For the zombie is a creature that can truly stand in as any of our problems or concerns, and its overall design makes it scary enough that it holds our attention and allows for the lesson to be burrowed into our brains and well, that’s allowed for some powerful stories to come to life throughout the years. Ones that have explored the nature of consumerism, of post 9/11 America, and through The Walking Dead Universe, the subgenre has asked some powerful questions about the nature of who we are and what we are deserving of.

In fact, those deeper questions are commonplace commentary in the TWDU, which is why this week’s episode of The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live on AMC was so surprising. Because for the first time in a very long time, the franchise opted to explore a more modern, relevant topic regarding some of our world concerns. After all, we live in a time where we are seeing so many people just suddenly side with people and leaders that are vehemently bad people through and through. Yet they defend them, vote for them, and believe in their mantra and we simply don’t know why. Because one would think that logic and good nature would prevail and well, ‘Bye’, took the time to ponder upon what is causing this. 

That is… after it gave the fans what we wanted most… the love story that we’ve been waiting for. Because Rick and Michonne have been apart far too long. So, a fair, early, chunk of this episode saw this duo, acclimating to being in one another’s orbit once again, and celebrating the fact they could breathe again because they are in fact, one another’s oxygen. Which really did make for some lovely scenes. Ones that made it appear as though, they would soon be out of Philadelphia and on the road to Alexandria and the Commonwealth to be with their family once more. Mainly because, Jadis made sure to inform Rick that she was now watching them closely and that if anything happened to her or moves were made against the CRM… its might would come down upon them and Alexandria.

Which in turn, motivated that grand escape attempt. Wherein Rick secured a raft to get them downriver, and mottled corpses that resembled he and Michonne physically to make it seem as though they died in the wild and no one would be the wiser. Giving rise to more hope that this series would see them rekindle their love and catch up on years of longing and hurt and well… that’s when this episode took quite the turn and surprised us all. Because while it seemed that Rick and Michonne were barreling toward the rendezvous point, it turned out that Rick was only there briefly, to leave his love a note. One that informed her that she had to go back, that he had to stay behind to protect her and that shocked Michonne and prompted her to of course, disobey and stay behind, and really watch Rick from afar and what she learned stunned her.

In that, somewhere down the line, Rick was broken by the Civic Republic Military. To the point where he believed that it was the only way forward and slowly and surely, he was not the only one to fall into that mantra. Because Thorne went from vehemently wanting to be part of the change that Okafor spoke to, to being the best damn command officer she could be. For a meeting with Major General Beale suddenly made her super loyal to the cause, for she had ‘seen the light.’ Unfortunately, her newfound focus only helped Rick to lean into that as well, and that only further stunned Michonne. For now, the love of her life, the man she spent years in the wilderness searching for and yearning for… was nothing more than a foot soldier, spouting the nonsense of the CRM, and he was unwilling to leave it behind.
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To the point… where Michonne found herself and her relationship with Rick in jeopardy. For there was a time when Rick and Michonne went up to the Cascade base to clear out the last of the dead, and that brought forth a scary moment since Thorne briefly transformed into Shane Walsh, since she thought deeply upon putting Michonne down to keep her ‘A’ personality away from the cause and of course… when there was a chance to run… to be together… Rick refused to take it. Making it clear to Michonne that Rick had lost his way and was now indoctrinated and forgot who he was and what mattered most by siding with the CRM, putting that love in jeopardy. And this bothered her so deeply and infuriated her so much, that in a fit of frustration, she tossed herself and Rick out of a helicopter to be free of the CRM’s grasp.

A move that could badly injure both of them, and potentially kill one of them. The latter of which doesn’t seem plausible because this franchise would never put either of them down like that. But that aside, such a move spoke deeply to Michonne’s frustration and the moments leading up to it, are what truly explained and explored the strange world we live in right now and how it has come to be. For Rick Grimes now represents our friends, our family members who one day went from having casual chats about life to preaching about the dangers of the border or the need to restore a country to glory once again and well… this episode pointed out… that we live in a fearful and traumatic time where old wounds have never been healed and where not everyone feels safe in the slightest. 

Giving rise to idiots who now promise safety, a way forward, all by playing into fear and stoking its flames. So that those good people will happily surrender to those words and the cause in the name of safety and stability and that’s scary to say the least. Especially since we’ve now seen a man as brave and as intelligent as Rick Grimes succumb to those machinations, and well… that made for a powerful story. One that truly reflects our world and a growing problem of indoctrination through fear. As for the cure, well horror rarely offers that, it just showcases the problem so we can ponder upon it and fix it, and this episode did that well courtesy of an engaging and almost heartbreaking story. One that we can only hope will shift toward salvation or redemption thanks to Michonne. Or it could lead to a tragic love story, and the only way to know is to continue the journey and see what lies ahead. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Satanic Hispanics’.
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When we think of Latin folklore in horror, our minds really drift to a pair of key characters. The enigmatic and chilling La Llorona and the terrifying Chupacabra, and we think of them first… simply because they are the two monsters that are predominantly featured in all thing’s horror media. Which isn’t a terrible thing by any means, since it has allowed for fascinating explorations to come forth regarding La Llorona throughout the years, lending to the legend of this sorrowful spirit and of course, you can never go wrong with a good old fashioned monster movie about a blood sucking nightmare roaming the countryside.

But while those stories do entertain and celebrate some segments of Latin culture, they are but the surface of the rich lore that permeates Latin culture, and that is a bit of a shame. For horror is something that is deeply intertwined with Latin storytelling, courtesy of endless stories and legends and overall fears about the unknown and what lurks in the dark. All of which quite frankly, deserves its day in the sun. Because those stories and legends could open up all kinds of possibilities for storytellers and provide horror fans with new nightmares to obsess over and thankfully… the day to begin exploring all of that has finally arrived, courtesy of a new horror anthology on Shudder entitled, Satanic Hispanics.

For this is an all-Latino horror anthology that does nothing but focus upon the rich legends that make up Latin culture in a different manner no less. For this anthology, introduces us to a man named the Traveler early on, through some serious trouble that lands him in front of a pair of police officers in El Paso, which prompts great concern from the Traveler. For he knows that something sinister is on its way to his location and he needs to leave, so he works with these officers to solve past crimes and explain his fascinating and supernatural origins through incredible stories that seem to do nothing more than bore his friends, much to his chagrin. For he really is who he claims to be, and the clock is ticking, and it… draws near. 

Which really is the perfect way to explore the rich tapestry of horror in Latin culture and how it is passed down from generation to generation, through word-of-mouth storytelling, just as it is presented here. Since it is elders in the community and parents that pass these tales to their children to scare them, educate them and outright enthrall them and well, once the stories get underway in this film, are we treated to some incredible legends. The kind that goes deep into the history of Latin people, and feature and harbor incredible themes about our relationship with mother nature and our relationship with the spiritual world. Giving rise to stories that are refreshing, and unique, and fascinating in nature. But more importantly, they properly celebrate Latin culture and open up its wonder to a new audience at last. 
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But make no mistake about it, while this is indeed a piece to be celebrated on those elements, it is still a horror anthology, and it delivers there through and through. Courtesy of moments that are shocking and chilling, and outright violent and gory. In fact, this anthology is indeed one that gore hounds will celebrate since the red, red wine we all harbor in our veins flows freely here and as added bonus, this anthology also knows… when to lighten the mood. Because horror and some of the stories told in Latin communities are aloof and fun and this anthology knows when to let loose. Courtesy of a pair of vignettes that lean into the comedy and entertain, giving rise to a wonderfully balanced and outright magnificent anthology.

One that really does what it sets out to accomplish and give a voice to legends and stories that we don’t hear about all that often. Not to mention, this horror film is a marvel when it comes to representation as well. By showcasing the talents of five talented Latin directors, and Latin writers and actors and that really is something that popular media is sorely lacking. Which also makes this anthology, progressive and important, and respectful. Since it truly does pay proper tribute to the legends and concepts it features and it also will invoke, fond memories for any Latin audience members. Who will reflect upon days gone by when their Mamá or Abuelita spun those tales beneath the cover of night and well, all of these elements make this a must-see anthology. Because it is original and fun and serves as a breath of fresh air in the genre.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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When we are faced with some tough goals in life, or some serious struggles, there is one thing in particular that gets us to where we need to go… hope. Because hope is what allows for us to believe that tomorrow will be a better day, one where the struggles finally end, and we can enjoy a little peace again and hope also… is what allows for us to keep pushing toward our goals. Simply because setbacks and failures do happen in our journey, and we need that little glimmer to push us forward and help us to believe that maybe, just maybe, we will enjoy a break at last and see progress or achieve our goals. But what’s fascinating about hope, is that while it helps, it isn’t endless, and we sometimes need a little help in keeping it going in our hearts.

Which is where support networks come into play. Those people who can see what we need and help us to find that sliver again so we can go forward and reach the goal and or understand that we might not get what we want and process that and find hope for a new direction. If anything, hope and its ups and downs are top of mind today, simply because that was put upon display in the next episode of The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live on AMC. A feat that ‘Gone’ accomplished by taking the time to catch up with Michonne, and what she was doing while Rick Grimes was trying to adjust to the horror of being away from his family as a captive of the Civic Republic Military, and well… as it turned out… Michonne was out there, inspiring hope.

Because during her travels she encountered a roving group of survivors. Who literally were constantly in motion, and well… she of course took the time to save some lives when that group encountered some trouble and that… motivated quite a few of them to stick with her. Because of her strength, her bravery and that allowed for her to find newfound support against incredible odds as she moved toward where she believed Rick to be. Since this episode also informed us that the northeast corner of what once was the United States of America was dangerous in some areas. Courtesy of massive herds of the dead from the tri-state area, that migrated about. But alas, while this new group helped her evade those herds and moved her along… making it seem as though Michonne was the support network people need in question… disaster proved otherwise.

For along the way, there were disappointments in her search, and that aforementioned disaster. For eventually, this new rag-tag group of heroes encountered the Civic Republic Military, who of course used their might and their strength to wipe out 99% of the group. For only Michonne and her new friend Nat walked away from that bombing run, and that put Michonne at her lowest. For her and Nat’s lungs were wounded, she was trapped in a mall with a man that also lost so much and well… this happened to be when that support network and a boost of hope came into play. For during the year that Michonne and Nat were trapped in the mall, Nat truly came to know Michonne and understood how much she loved Rick, and how badly she needed resolution regarding him.

So, Nat did the right thing. He stood by Michonne after their lungs healed and followed her to where any clue regarding Rick might lead them. Making sure along the way, to speak to hope’s power, and the need to believe just a little longer. Because that is what keeps us going when our hearts are sinking and keeps us walking when the world weighs down upon us. And he did this, in part because Nat was just… a fine human being, one worthy of Alexandria but also because… he needed her to really see this through to prepare herself for the worst-case scenario. Because if Rick was gone and she hadn’t processed that through hope, through the struggle… she would never be able to face her children again. Giving rise to a powerful journey about how we light the spark for others in need and how powerful hope can be. 
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But of course, we know how this journey ended, thanks to last week’s surprise. But it was important to learn how hope kept Michonne going and how one man made that difference when she was at her lowest, and that brought us to the reunion in question… a sliver of joy and more tough times ahead, where she will need to apply what Nat taught her. Because sadly, Nat didn’t survive beyond the reunion moment, thanks to one of the CRM soldiers being alive, and she will need positivity to process that, and sadly… the reunion was cut short and was filled with worry. Because Rick activated his emergency beacon and the CRM was coming, and that prompted him to put together a plan that would keep her safe and hopefully keep them together.

One where Michonne would hide her leadership abilities and her own inspirational skills to just blend into the realm of the CRM. So as to not be noticed in the slightest, since we now know of the CRM’s desire to keep A’s out of the game, and that is what will require a great deal of hope on her part, a great deal of strength. For the Civic Republic Military is strong, and she knows now how strong and how vast their resources are, courtesy of an impromptu tour and of course… through the very interrogation that Rick guided her through, and only hope will help her cope with that. Not to mention, she’ll need it to handle the ugly forces awaiting her in this place. Since Jadis is aware of her arrival, and eager to play her little games with Rick and Michonne as only she can.

But while that sets the stage for conflict down the line, we should in the meantime… celebrate one powerful tale. One that properly bookended Rick’s journey with Michonne’s own long and winding road to her love. But what mattered more here, were the powerful lessons about hope. About how we inspire it and how we find it, and we have Matthew August Jeffers and his amazing performance as Nat to thank for this. Since his work here sold the gravity of the message and of course, Nat’s journey outright broke our hearts, and it is indeed a shame we won’t enjoy more of his wisdom, and hopefully… he gave Michonne enough of it and enough hope… to fight the good fight ahead now that Jadis is ready and willing to play hardball. Until next time.

To learn more about Nat, check out our interview with the actor that played him, Matthew August Jeffers, here.

It really is quite interesting how so many people view March as a period of new beginnings. Where all need to immediately prepare to set out into the world and explore it and think upon our resolutions and potential great changes in our lives. Which is why you see so many, posting pictures on social media of their time out in the world when it gets sunny and warm, and well… this is fascinating because… there are just as many folks out there, that don’t subscribe to this in the slightest. Who see March as just another month and don’t feel that call of nature. They just want to live their lives as they see fit and hang out and pursue their own interests and really, both sides are right. 
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For there is no wrong way to live life and that’s why so many streamers and networks are happily bringing forth shows and movie events during March. To keep the folks who plan on just settling in and enjoying some fine viewings on the weekend, to relax in their own way, as happy as can be, and that’s precisely why Shudder is planning another robust round of releases in March. To satisfy those horror fans who don’t feel the need to head outdoors, and please the newcomers to the genre with stories that captivate and terrorize and since you’re here because you’re thinking about staying in and relaxing with some scares, here is Shudder’s March 2024 Programming Lineup for you to peruse and use to plan accordingly. 

Directed by Mike Mendez, Alejandro Brugués, Gigi Saul Guerrero and Demian Rugna, Eduardo Sanchez  
View The Trailer Here
Streaming On Shudder March 8
Available in US

Synopsis
This horror anthology assembles a Murderers’ Row of talent. Mike Mendez (Big Ass Spider), Alejandro Brugués (Juan of the Dead), Gigi Saul Guerrero (Culture Shock), Eduardo Sanchez (The Blair Witch Project), and Demian Rugna (When Evil Lurks, Terrified) unite in the first all-Latino horror anthology.

Directed by Josiah Allen and Indiana Bell
Streaming On Shudder March 22
Available in US, CA, UKI

Synopsis
An isolated man living at the back of a desolate caravan park is visited by a desperate young woman seeking shelter from a violent storm. As the savage storm worsens, these solitary souls begin to feel threatened - but who should really be afraid?

Shudder Original Special
 
LIVE on Shudder March 1; Streaming on Shudder March 3
Available in US and CA
 
​Synopsis
Joe Bob dives deep into the epic love story of two people changed by a changed world in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live.

March 1
 
At Midnight I’ll Take Your Soul
A gravedigger prowls the city in search of a female to bear him a son.
 
The Strange World of Coffin Joe
Three episodes: A dollmaker whose dolls are eerily human, a tale of necrophilia and a doctor proves love is dead.
 
This Night I’ll Possess Your Corpse
After the events of the previous film, Coffin Joe continues to seek a maiden to give him a son. With the help of servant Bruno, he kidnaps six girls from a village. Which one of them will pass his trials of fear?
 
Dream Demon
A young woman about to be married begins having terrifying dreams about demons. When she awakes, however, the demons are real and begin to commit gruesome murders. 
 
The Strangers
A young couple staying in an isolated vacation home are terrorized by three unknown assailants.
 
Ghostwatch
In a “live” broadcast on Halloween night, a BBC team investigate a reported poltergeist in an ordinary London home.
 
Give Me Pity!
Sissy St. Clare graces the small screen for her first ever television special, an evening full of music, laughter, glamour and entertainment. But Sissy’s live event quickly begins to curdle into a psychedelic nightmare.
 
Grabbers
When an island off the coast of Ireland is invaded by bloodsucking aliens, the heroes discover that getting drunk is the only way to survive.
 
Alice, Sweet Alice
In 1961, a divorced Catholic couple’s life is turned upside-down when one of their two adolescent daughters is suspected of her younger sister’s brutal murder during her First Holy Communion and a series of subsequent stabbings.
 
March 4
 
Day of the Beast
Bent on committing as many sins as possible to avert the birth of the beast, a Catholic priest teams up with a Black Metal aficionado and an Italian connoisseur of the occult. Now he must become an unrelenting sinner. Is there still hope?
 
Perdita Durango
A psychotic criminal couple kidnaps a random teenage couple. The woman rapes the male captive and lets him watch his lover being raped by the man. Then they plan to sacrifice the couple.
 
Butcher Baker Nightmare Maker
An orphaned teenager finds himself being dominated by his aunt who’s hell-bent on keeping him with her…at all costs.
 
March 11
 
First Contact
Two estranged siblings go to their late scientist father’s farmhouse to make sense of his incomplete work. They soon discover an evil entity, buried in time and space for millions of years, has been released and begun wreaking havoc.
 
The Church
An old Gothic cathedral built over a mass grave develops strange powers that trap a number of people inside with ghosts from a 12th Century massacre seeking to resurrect an ancient demon from the bowels of the Earth.
 
The Sect
A lonely kindergarten teacher discovers a secret well in the basement of her house, and soon finds herself being followed by a murderous Satanic cult. 
 
March 18
 
Southern Comfort
During a routine exercise, a team of National Guards are threatened by angry and violet locals.

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 Original Content is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Over the last few years, Shudder has introduced audiences to groundbreaking and critically acclaimed films including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Joko Anwar’s SATAN’S SLAVES, Josh Ruben’s SCARE ME, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna‘s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest in the V/H/S film anthology franchise, as well as the fan favorite TV series THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS.