Monstrous Flesh: A Horror Film Podcast

A fortnightly podcast dedicated to exploring the origins of horror tropes, the folklore behind it, and the representation of women and non binary folks within it! In each series we deep dive a particular theme or trope, and we dissect it to an inch of its life! Hosted by Dr Megan Kenny and Clelia McElroy, and edited by Adam Hynes.

Daylight Horror 4 - Funny Games (1997) and Eden Lake (2008)

The Daylight Horror series comes to a chilling conclusion! 😱 In our final episode, we dive into the twisted depths of Funny Games and Eden Lake. Prepare for psychological torture, teenage terror, and a whole lot of uncomfortable truths about classism and violence. ☀️🔪 #podcast #horror #daylighthorror #funnygames #edenlake #podcastlife #horrorpodcast" *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Sources: "Hybrid Hoodie Horrors Genre Localisation and Britain’s Moral Panic" (Lindsey Decker, 2021) "HEARTLESS HOODIES - Contemporary British Horror Cinema: Industry, Genre and Society" (Johnny Walker, 2024)

09-24
01:27:02

Daylight Horror 3 - The Wicker Man (1973 & 2006) and Midsommar (2019)

We're breaking down the chilling double bill of The Wicker Man (both the 1973 AND 2006 version!) and Midsommar. Get ready for pagan rituals, twisted cults, and a whole lot of uncomfortable sunshine. ☀️💀 *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). ***

09-17
01:28:16

Daylight Horror 2 - The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) and Piggy (2022)

This week, we discuss the iconic The Texas Chain Saw Massacre - a blood-soaked odyssey into the maddening heat of rural Texas. We dissect the film's enduring legacy, from its groundbreaking violence to its exploration of family, fate, and the American psyche. We then turn our attention to Carlota Pereda's groundbreaking debut Piggy, delving into themes of bullying, body image, and the monstrous within us all. Get ready to sweat, scream, and question your sanity. *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). ***

09-11
01:44:36

Daylight Horror 1 - Jaws (1975) and Nope (2022)

Welcome to this Monstrous Flesh podcast mini-series, where we turn our attention to a fascinating subgenre - Daylight Horror. This week we're talking about Steven Spielberg's 1975 cult classic Jaws and Jordan Peele's UFO extravaganza Nope, from 2022. Why do these two films make a great double bill, you ask? ... Let's talk! *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Research for this episode: JAWS: VOIR - Ep 1 - The Summer of the Shark (Netflix) Visual essay written by American Film Blogger Sasha Stone, about her experience as a 10 year old girl who discovered a love of cinema in the summer of 1975 when she first watched Jaws. https://crimereads.com/on-the-endless-symbolism-of-jaws-which-owes-its-dark-soul-to-moby-dick/ https://brightlightsfilm.com/scars-and-their-stories-exploring-a-scene-from-jaws/ https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2023/06/30/jaws-sex-abuse-crisis-245597 https://seanpatrickhughes.substack.com/p/jaws-a-social-commentary https://time.com/6199449/nope-explained-meaning-jordan-peele/ https://fdiv.net/2015/01/02/who-were-jockeys-muybridges-photographs https://overland.org.au/2022/08/barbaric-struts-and-cosmic-indigestion-in-jordan-peeles-nope/

09-03
01:33:55

WITCHES 8. I Am Not A Witch (Nyoni, 2017)

"I believe the ladies have explained everything. Now it's up to you, whether to be a goat or a witch. If you choose to be a goat, cut the ribbon. But, if you choose to be a witch, keep your ribbon intact. Then you'll join this witch camp." In this episode, we delve into Rungano Nyoni’s poignant and powerful film, "I Am Not a Witch" (2017). This unique piece of cinema blends elements of magical realism and social commentary to explore themes of oppression, identity, and resistance through the eyes of an accused young girl in Zambia. From the film's bold critique of patriarchal structures and its portrayal of the systemic subjugation of women, we explore the heartbreaking journey of the protagonist, Shula, as she navigates a world that views her as both a threat and a commodity. *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing *** Research for this episode: Interview with Rungano Nyoni for Get Into Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LE8eUU7SkWo I AM NOT A WITCH SHOWS THE BITTER TRUTH BEHIND THE FOLKLORE - https://filmobsessive.com/film/film-analysis/film-genres/art-house/i-am-not-a-witch-shows-the-bitter-truth-behind-the-folklore/?utm_content=cmp-true ‘I Am Not a Witch’: How a Satire About Misogyny Is Transforming Zambia’s Film Industry - https://indiewire.com/features/general/i-am-not-a-witch-rungano-nyoni-interview-zambia-1201999906/ Critical Analysis of 2018 drama I am not a Witch https://www.academia.edu/41562185/Critical_Analysis_of_2018_drama_I_am_not_a_Witch https://www.filminquiry.com/i-am-not-a-witch-2018-review/?utm_content=cmp-true I Am Not a Witch: The ordeal of a young African girl set against the tone of satire https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/329162/

07-23
01:56:27

WITCHES 7. Bulbbul (Dutt Guptan, 2020)

'Where did the sweet little lady I knew disappear?' 'I gobbled her up' This week we are discussing Bulbbul from 2020, a hauntingly beautiful horror film that redefines the genre with its rich storytelling and potent symbolism. Set against the backdrop of 19th century Bengal, "Bulbbul" is a tale of love, betrayal, and the supernatural, but most importantly, it’s a powerful commentary on the plight and strength of women. *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

07-09
01:59:36

WITCHES 6. The Blair Witch Project (Sanchez & Myrick, 1999)

OK, here's your motivation. You're lost, you're angry in the woods, and no one is here to help you. There's a fucking witch and she keeps leaving shit outside your door. There's no one here to help you! She left little trinkets, you fucking took one of them, she ran after us. There's no one here to help you! We walked for 15 hours today, we ended up in the same place! There's no one here to help you, THAT'S your motivation! THAT'S YOUR MOTIVATION! Welcome back to another episode of the Monstrous Flesh podcast. This week, Clelia and Meg journey into the eerie forests of Maryland to dissect the groundbreaking found-footage horror film, "The Blair Witch Project" (1999). Join us as we recount the harrowing experiences of the film's characters, Heather, Mike, and Josh, and analyse the psychological dynamics that drive the story to its nerve-wracking conclusion. From the unsettling atmosphere created by the raw, handheld camera work to the haunting final scene that left audiences reeling, stick with us and we just might get you out of the woods... *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

06-25
01:43:38

WITCHES 5. The Witches of Eastwick (Miller, 1987)

Men are such cocksuckers aren't they? You don't have to answer that. It's true. They're scared. Their dicks get limp when confronted by a woman of obvious power and what do they do about it? Call them witches, burn them, torture them, until every woman is afraid. Afraid of herself... afraid of men... and all for what? Fear of losing their hard-on This week, we're casting our spell on the 1987 film adaptation of "The Witches of Eastwick," a cinematic gem that blends dark comedy, supernatural thrills, and a powerhouse cast. Join your hosts Meg and Clelia as we delve into the film's portrayal of power, sexuality, and sisterhood, dissecting the unforgettable performances of Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer, as well as the devilish Jack Nicholson. Grab a wax figurine and your favourite needles, because it's time to dive into the eerie world of The Witches of Eastwick! *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

06-11
01:57:55

WITCHES 4 . Suspiria (Argento, 1977) & Suspiria (Guadagnino, 2018)

"Suzy Banyon decided to perfect her ballet studies in the most famous school of dance in Europe. She chose the celebrated academy of Freiburg. One day, at nine in the morning, she left Kennedy airport, New York, and arrived in Germany at 10:40 p.m. local time..." This week, Clelia and Meg delve into the eerie world of Suspiria, examining both Dario Argento's 1977 classic and Luca Guadagnino's 2018 reimagining. Join us as we compare the unique styles, narratives, and themes of these two horror masterpieces. We begin with Argento’s original, a technicolor nightmare that revolutionised horror with its striking visuals, haunting Goblin score, and unforgettable atmosphere. What elements make this film a timeless piece of horror history? Then, we shift to Guadagnino’s ambitious remake, a film that replaces the original’s vivid colors with a muted, dread-filled palette and adds new layers of psychological and political complexity. How does this version stand on its own, and what fresh dimensions does it bring to the sinister dance academy? Clelia and Meg discuss standout performances, especially Jessica Harper and Dakota Johnson as Suzy Bannion, and delve into the thematic contrasts, exploring how each film addresses femininity, power, and terror. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Argento’s classic or intrigued by Guadagnino’s fresh take, this episode offers a thoughtful analysis of two films that, while sharing the same bones, provide distinctly different experiences. Tune in for a captivating conversation that honors the eerie brilliance of Suspiria in all its forms. *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

05-28
01:44:01

WITCHES 3 . The VVitch (Eggers, 2015)

Wouldst thou like the taste of butter? A pretty dress? Wouldst thou like to live deliciously? Join your host Meg and Clelia for an in depth discussion of Robert Eggers 2015 breakout film The VVitch. From the haunting ambiance of 17th century New England to the complex portrayal of a family's descent into despair and darkness, there's no stone left unturned. Light your candles and join us, lest ye be left in the dark! *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

05-14
01:52:23

WITCHES 2 . The Witches (Roeg, 1990) with Emily Smith

Every country in the world has witches. And there is a leader, a high witch of each country. And the ruler of all the witches is The Most Evil Woman in creation… The Grand High Witch… Herself. In this episode we dive into the wicked world of "The Witches" (1990). We are joined by Emily Smith, PhD student at the University of Nottingham, specialising in the representation of Witches in the 20th Century. Join us as we explore the portrayal of witches as liberated women, unshackled from the confines of the cisgender heterosexual-patriarchy, who unabashedly embrace their monstrosity. From the cackling delight of the Grand High Witch to the mischievous antics of her cohorts, we delve deep into the magic and mischief that define these captivating characters. *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

04-23
01:16:47

WITCHES 1 . The Craft (Fleming, 1996)

Now is the time. This is the hour. Ours is the magic. Ours is the power. Now is the time. This is the hour. Ours is the magic. Ours is the power... In this inaugural episode, we explore covens, female friendships and rivalry, as we delve into the mystical world of "The Craft" (1996). Join us as we explore the blurred lines between light and dark magic, question who the true protagonist of this film really is and ponder the age-old query: Who gets to decide what anyone deserves? *** Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). *** Cover art by Kurakurakucing

04-16
01:30:45

REVENGE 3. Whatever Happened to Baby Jane (1962) x Morgiana (1972)

In this episode, we are discussing Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) and Morgiana (1972), two films that show how the poisonous brew of sibling rivalry, jealousy, and psychological manipulation can turn a house into a cage and a family into a battlefield. We'll be looking at how revenge is not always an external force but can fester from within, leading to a slow, methodical unraveling of the mind and the ultimate destruction of a family.So, lock your doors, and check on your loved ones, because the call is coming from inside the house.***Editing and theme music by Adam Hynes @adamnarrowsFollow the hosts of Monstrous Flesh on social media @monstrous_flesh and @monstrousmeg

09-16
01:36:03

REVENGE 2. Lady Vengeance (2005) x Ballerina (2023)

In this episode, we are discussing Lady Vengeance (2005) and Ballerina (2023), two films that show the immense power of female rage and the methodical, brutal lengths our heroines go to in order to seek retribution. We'll be looking at the difference between the collective and personal nature of revenge, how trauma fuels the desire for justice, and how these films challenge the traditional portrayal of women as passive victims.***Editing and theme music by Adam Hynes @adamnarrowsFollow the hosts of Monstrous Flesh on social media @monstrous_flesh and @monstrousmeg

09-09
01:18:32

REVENGE 1. Play Misty for me (1971) x Fatal Attraction (1987)

Welcome to Season 3, "Revenge”, exploring the many and varied motivations for Women to seek revenge in horror.This season, we’ll be looking at how revenge manifests, the different forms it takes, and importantly, we’ll be questioning why there’s been a tendency to gender this concept.In this episode, we are discussing Play Misty for Me (1971) and Fatal Attraction (1987), two films that helped define the "erotic thriller" subgenre and sparked a moral panic around female rage. We'll be delving into the tropes of the spurned lover and the "bunny boiler" to understand what these films reveal about societal anxieties surrounding female independence, desire, and retribution.So, grab your headphones and maybe lock your doors, because things are about to get unhinged!***Editing and theme music by Adam Hynes @adamnarrowsFollow the hosts of Monstrous Flesh on social media @monstrous_flesh and @monstrousmeg

09-02
01:32:14

Festive Frights - E4 - The Sacrifice Game (Wexler, 2023)

Merry Christmas folks! In this last Festive Frights episode, we are locking our doors and windows, replaying Stranger Danger infomercials, and having a cosy night in reading Black Magic books by the fire….  We are discussing The Sacrifice Game, that’s just come out on Shudder this month! Beware, spoilers abound! If you haven't seen The Sacrifice Game yet, make sure you do before sinking your teeth in this episode. Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). Cover art by Kurakurakucing. We'd love to hear your thoughts on The Sacrifice Game, reach out via our website or on social media. Creep it weird everyone!

12-25
54:46

Festive Frights - E3 - Black Christmas (Clark, 1974)

"If this movie doesn't make your skin crawl... it's on too tight!" In this episode, we're putting the phone on do not disturb, and leaving the Christmas tree in the attic.... We are discussing Bob Clark's 1974 Black Christmas! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for the Pi Kappa Sig sorority sisters… last few days of term, Christmas parties to attend, the girls are getting ready to go home for the holidays… But something feels off…  The house receives a series of disturbing phone calls. The caller makes sexually explicit comments and threats. After a sorority member goes missing, and a local adolescent girl is murdered, the remaining girls start to suspect a serial killer is on the loose. But no one realises just how near the culprit is… Beware, spoilers abound! If you haven't seen Black Christmas before, make sure you do before sinking your teeth in this episode. Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). Cover art by Kurakurakucing. We'd love to hear your thoughts on Black Christmas, reach out via our website or on social media. Creep it weird everyone!

12-18
57:12

Festive Frights - E2 - Krampus (Dougherty, 2015)

You don't want to be on his list. You Better Watch Out. When the Christmas spirit is lost, he arrives. Join your hosts Clelia and Megan for this second episode of Festive Frights! Today we are keeping our Christmas spirit in check and being careful what we wish for... We are discussing Michael Dougherty's 2015 Krampus Beware, spoilers abound! If you haven't seen Krampus before, make sure you do before sinking your teeth in this episode. Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). Cover art by Kurakurakucing. We'd love to hear your thoughts on Krampus, reach out via our website or on social media. Creep it weird everyone!

12-11
57:49

Festive Frights - E1 - Gremlins (Dante, 1984) with guest Emma Duncan (Fortune & Glory Film Club)

"They're clever. They're mischievous. They'll get into the kitchen, the basement, the garage. They'll get into anything. And once they get in... you're in for it!" Welcome to this mini series: Monstrous Flesh Festive Frights! Join your Monstrous hosts Megan Kenny and Clelia McElroy as they deep dive under the horrors of the season that lay hidden under the mistletoe... In this first episode, we are joined by Emma Duncan, director of Fortune & Glory Film Club in Nottingham, to discuss the cult classic GREMLINS (Dante, 1984). Get ready for some truly out there reading of this Christmas favourite... you'll never look at Gizmo the same way. Beware, spoilers abound! If you haven't seen Gremlins before, make sure you do before sinking your teeth in this episode. You can find out more about Emma and all their upcoming events on Facebook and Instagram @fortuneandgloryfilmclub Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). Cover art by Kurakurakucing. We'd love to hear your thoughts on Gremlins, reach out via our website or on social media. Creep it weird everyone!

12-04
53:08

Summer Screams - Episode 5: Fear Street 1978 (Janiak, 2021)

"No one gets out of this town, not even Miss Perfect. I'm sorry but I can't save you. One way or another, you're gonna die tonight." Join hosts Megan Kenny and Clelia McElroy as they discuss witches, curses, generational trauma, and the worst possible camp activity of them all... capture the flag. Beware, spoilers abound! If you haven't seen the Fear Street trilogy yet, make sure you do before sinking your teeth in this episode. Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows). Cover art by Aamina Mahmood (@_aaminamahmood). We'd love to hear your thoughts on Fear Street 1978, reach out via our website or on social media. Creep it weird everyone!

08-29
01:08:35

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