Dark Discussions Podcast

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. The three set book series, SCARY STORIES TO TELL IN THE DARK, written by Alan Schwartz is probably most famous for its artwork by Stephen Gammell. Fairly scary and some say not appropriate for young children, the books and their art were one of the most controversial books for children. Now in 2019, director André Øvredal, famous for such modern classics as TROLLHUNTER (2010) and THE AUTOPSY OF JANE DOE (2016), is back with an adaptation of the Schwartz books. Teenagers Stella, Auggie, and Chuck meet up with an out-of-town eighteen year old named Ramón. When fleeing bullies on Halloween, they land up at the old Bellow house, an abandoned mansion with dark secrets. While investigating the rooms, they find an old book that may bring evil upon the town. Starring relatively unknowns, the movie however received good reviews. Oddly just like the books, the film may be a bit more scary than its suggested viewership. With its successful box office run, the movie is another in a list of 2019 horror films bringing success to theaters. Dark Discussions takes a look at this new film and gives their thoughts. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. Danish director Lars von Trier has been a polarizing figure for years. Many if not all of his films have caused divisiveness. And some have pushed the boundaries of mainstream and what some would call graphic sexual pornography. Either way, the film that the majority call his most mainstream film, MELANCOLIA (2011), became a critical darling and won many awards. It’s the wedding day of Justine (Kirsten Dunst) and Michael (Alexander Skarsgård). Justine’s brother-in-law John (Kiefer Sutherland) and sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg) are hosting the wedding at their magnificent mansion. As secrets of family and friends become exposed, a news report of a giant planetoid, Melancholia, hurdling towards a fly by of Earth is broadcast. The film stars Kirsten Dunst in an award winning performance where she received the award for Best Actress at Cannes (which many proclaim as the greatest award of them all for a lead actress). With its splendid imagery, the film was once again shot by long time collaborator cinematographer Manuel Alberto Claro. Dark Discussions takes a look at this unique and acclaimed film. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome to Anthony T's Horror Show. Anthony T back with a roundtable interview as he talks with director/producer Dave Kerr, Actress/Producer./Makeup Effects Artist Amber Fulcher and cinematographer Owen D. Young JR.to talk about their latest film Revenge of the Slasher Nurse and their upcoming film Bloody Summer Camp. plus Anthony T goes to the theatre for his film recommendation. Dark Discussions Podcast Network

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. Kevin Tenney may not be as famous as some of his peers from the 1980’s, but he’s had a few horror movies that have become October staples. His most famous film, NIGHT OF THE DEMONS (1988), is probably one of the most famous horror films that take place on Halloween night. However, his feature film debut two years prior, WITCHBOARD (1986), is probably almost famous. Linda Brewster and her boyfriend Jim have a weekend cocktail party. Unfortunately her ex-boyfriend Brandon seems to not get along well with her latest beau. During a “game” using Brandon’s Ouija board, something goes wrong. Brandon claims that the bad energy between he and Jim have caused Daniel, the spirit of a dead boy, has become angry. The next day, Linda tries her own summons only to find out that an evil may in the house that’s more fearsome than the ghost of a young boy. The film got notoriety because Tawny Kitaen starred in it. Being a very popular television personality and model, she brought some cred to what was otherwise a B-movie. However, this ghost tale went against the trend of 1980’s slasher films and stood out as a fan favorite. Dark Discussions takes a look at this good hearted and fun throwback horror film. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome to Anthony T's Horror Show. Anthony T is back for episode 26 and he has news on four major properties that is so big that it takes almost half of the episode as he talks about Halloween Kills, Halloween Ends, Saw IX and two major properties that he talks about for the first time on the podcast as you have to tune in to find out. Anthony T talks horror conventions after that as he gives a recap and his thoughts on Scares that Care Weekend 6 and his trip to Williamsburg,VA and then looks forward to Rock and Shock in October where he talks about the first wave of guest announcements. Finally, he talks about his trip to Vinegar Syndrome’s The Archive on the way to Williamsburg and recommends a film that he picked up there. Dark Discussions Podcast Network

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. It is his 9th feature length movie. And it is what he has said is the penultimate film of his career. ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD (2019), the latest feature length film by Quentin Tarantino, is a lengthy epic written and directed by him. Some say it is a love letter to Hollywood back in the day. Others say it is his commentary of various topics as cultural shifts in society. Yet, no matter, the movie, just like all of his films, gained much press. The film follows actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo Dicaprio) and his best friend and stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). When Dalton gets the call to play another villain-of-the-week on a prominent western show, Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie) and husband move next door on Cielo Drive in Beverly Hills. As tumultuous change occurs with hippies and other nonconformists moving into the city, Cliff and Rick try to navigate the turmoil of what’s to become. Bringing in the most money on its debut than any other film by Quentin Tarantino, the word of mouth and critical response has made the movie a winner. In career defining performances by Pitt and Dicaprio, and a strong supporting cast, the movies episode nature leaves most riveted. Dark Discussions takes a look at this interesting and engrossing film. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. Animal attack films have been around for ages. When it comes to alligators or crocodiles, there’s been a load of them. Such films as ALLIGATOR (1980), ROGUE (2007), BLACK WATER (2007), and EATEN ALIVE (1977) are just a few of them. Now Ghost House Pictures has released the latest in these reptile films simply called CRAWL (2019). Haley Keller leaves the University of Florida to go check on her father Dave. A category 5 hurricane is about to hit and neither she nor her sister has heard from him. When she arrives at his condo, she finds only his dog, Sugar. Taking Sugar along they head to his house that’s for sale, she discovers he is trapped in the waterlogged crawlspace under the house. Unfortunately for both of them, the flooding has brought with them a large number of alligators. Produced by Sam Raimi, and directed by Alexandre Aja known for such films as Piranha 3D and High Tension, the movie has been well received by critics. The script by the Rasmussen brothers (best known for the screenplay of John Carpenter’s film THE WARD) have especially received praise. Starring Barry Pepper and Kaya Scodelario as father-daughter, they carry the movie’s quick 87 minutes. Dark Discussions takes a look at the movie and gives their thoughts. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. In 2018 a relatively unknown director named Ari Aster had his film HEREDITARY released. Prior to its debut, the movie was getting rave reviews while playing on the festival circuit. Though the film got mixed reviews by audiences, it was a box office success. His sophomore effort MIDSOMMAR (2019) was just released and it too received fantastic reviews. College co-ed Dani Ardor follows her boyfriend Christian and his friends Mark and Josh to Sweden for a festival. Having lost her parents and sister to a murder-suicide, her mental state has been shattered and this trip seems like an exotic escape from her troubles. When they arrive, what they expected to be similar to Mardi Gras is much more pagan. As the week goes by, stranger things begin to happen and their hosts become more erratic. Though the film stars a cast of relative unknowns, Aster’s writing and direction move this very long film into directions that are very unnerving. Already being called the best horror film of 2019, the movie has made three times its budget. Dark Discussions takes a look at this new film and gives their thoughts. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome to Anthony T's Horror Show. Anthony T previews the upcoming Scares that Cares 6 Weekend on this edition. First, he talks to director Patrick Rea about his short films "It’s Hell Getting Old" and "Rattle" which will be screening at Scares that Cares Weekend 6 then he joined by Dark Discussions co-host Michael as they talk about the upcoming Scares that Cares Weekend 6 in Williamsburg, VA that takes place August 2nd - 4th. Dark Discussions Podcast Network

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. Already a best selling author, by 1983 Stephen King had become a household name. In November, his latest novel Pet Sematary was released as a hardcover. It quickly became a best seller. Spelled wrong based off the name given to a graveyard by children in the fictional town of Maine, the book eventually was released in 1984 as a mass market paperback where it once again became a best seller. Dr. Louis Creed, wife Rachel, and small children Ellie and Gage move to rural Ludlow, Maine where Louis takes on the job as director of health services at the University of Maine. His elderly neighbors across the street, Jud and Norma Crandall, become friendly with the Creeds. What should be a fairly stress-free job turns into a nightmare when a student is killed while jogging. Soon the Creed’s cat Church is killed by a lumber truck. Rather than have Louis break the news to Ellie, Jud takes Louis on a journey in the woods to bury the cat. Not much later all their lives will be turned upside down. Consider one the most dark novels by King, may consider it to be his best. Back in 1989 and then in 2019, the novel was adapted into film. Even a 1992 sequel was made to follow up the original movie. With guests hosts Barrett and Kevin, co-hosts Abe and Philip take a look into the book and give their thoughts. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. The Conjuring Universe has been one of the more successful film franchise of recent times. Starting with the first film, the series now has spawned numerous spin off movies including THE NUN (2018) and the ANNABELLE films. After this years earlier film THE CURSE OF LA LLORONA, the third ANNABELLE film entitled ANNABELLE COMES HOME arrived at theaters. When the Warrens, the ghost hunting duo, head out for a date night, they leave their young daughter Judy with a teenage babysitter, Mary Ellen. Her friend Daniela however arrives to hang out with the two. While left alone she sneaks off. Finding keys to the artifact room and enters. When she begins touching things, she is unaware that she is disturbing evil presences. Soon ghosts appear and the three become endangered. ANNABELLE COMES HOME is the directorial debut of successful screenwriter Gary Dauberman. Having written or co-written such blockbusters IT CHAPTER ONE (2017) and ANNABELLE: CREATION (2017), his debut was highly anticipated. Dark Discussions takes a look at this latest movie of the Conjuring Universe. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome to Anthony T's Horror Show. X marks the spot on this edition. First, its Saw IX vs Halloween 2 and 3? as he talks about the major casting announcement for Saw IX and the rumors about Halloween 2 and 3 releasing in the same month next year. Anthony T then goes into Jason Blum Gets a Funko and X director doesn’t and he tells you who are most deserving of being immortalized as a Funko instead of Jason Blum. Next he interviews director David McDonough about his film “Groundhog”. After that, he pleads to any promoter or anyone to run a horror con in Rhode Island in an open letter since X convention never seems to happen even though they said they would have a con this year. All that plus the craziest film ever filmed in Rhode Island in his film recommendation. Dark Discussions Podcast Network

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. The 1988 horror movie CHILD’S PLAY was not only a success but also became a fairly popular franchise. With a serial killer’s soul now possessing a child’s toy, the movie had many places to go. It also had Brad Dourif who turned the “monster” into something with a quirky personality. Now 2019, a remake of the film was released. However, the story was updated for the modern era. Karen (Aubrey Plaza) is a single mother who works for a department store. She’s able to get a returned Buddi doll from the warehouse for her thirteen year old son Andy. Buddi is able to connect to Bluetooth, wifi, and tablets throughout the house allowing him to be used as a tool as much as a toy. Soon, Andy begins to suspect that this version of the Buddi doll may be defective. Unlike as advertised, any protective programming seems to have been removed. Though starring Aubrey Plaza, the movie is really a starring vehicle for the young actor Gabriel Bateman who plays Andy. The movie was directed by Lars Klevberg and written by Tyler Burton Smith. Both are fairly new with little renown prior. Dark Discussions takes a look at this interesting take on the beloved franchise and gives their thoughts whether it stands out or not. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. With the arrival of the highly acclaimed horror film THE RANGER (2019) on Shudder (and disc), actor Jeremy Holm has been brought to the attention of the horror fan community. He starred as the title character of the film. In a long line of slasher and sociopathic characters, his take has been called refreshing many times, almost as much as it has been called frightening. While at Scare-A-Con New England, some members of the Dark Discussions crew were able to meet Jeremy as he mingled and met all his many fans. The convention was oddly the first horror convention he attended but the experience left him aware of the impact he’s had in the present horror film era. Last week, Dark Discussions reviewed and critiqued the movie. However, this week we were able to get Jeremy Holm to join us for an interview to discuss his perspective on the film, some behind the scenes aspects, and some upcoming horror projects he is participating in. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM

Welcome the newest episode of Dark Discussions, your place for the discussion of horror film, fiction, and all that’s fantastic. Another surprising Shudder exclusive, the film THE RANGER dropped earlier this year. A prototype throwback to the 1980’s slasher films, the movie changes it up a bit with some back story that is not expected in such movies. Actor Jeremy Holm who stars as the title character met members of the Dark Discussions Podcast at New England Scare-A-Con in June. Their interest in the film grew and they decided to take a look at it. When Chelsea and her four friends flee a punk rock party when law enforcement raid it, her boyfriend Garth stabs a police officer. Now on the run, they head to a state park where her family has roots. Unfortunately for them, a local park ranger is there who has other things on his mind. And the results bring back Chelsea’s personal history that she has been running away from since she was a child. Receiving fairly good reviews, the movie was directed by first time director Jenn Wexler. With a strong cast including Chloë Levine, the movie’s real star is Jeremy Holm in a dominating performance that has been drawing positive accolades from both critics and fans alike. But is the film solid? Dark Discussions gives their critique. As always we welcome your comments: darkdiscussions@aol.com (written email or attached mp3 files) WWW.DARKDISCUSSIONS.COM