In this episode we explore Alice of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland as part of the final girl ancesty. We take into account Lewis Carroll's questionable legacy and what that means for how Alice was presented, constructed and how we conceive of this legacy after all Alice has influenced today. We'll touch on how Alice's character and Carroll's themes reverberate through the horror genre, lighting the path for modern slasher and iconic franchises like The Matrix and Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Stranger Things.Connecting the dots to ancient myths with Inanna, and literary giants like Dante and Gulliver's Travels, we're going into the underworld of storytelling and the history of horror on this one. *This episode may contain spoilers for:Alice in Wonderland (1951) DisneyAlice in Wonderland (2010) Tim BurtonAlice Through the Looking Glass (2016)Alice in Terrorland (2023)The Matrix (1999)Stranger Things (2016-2025)The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018-2020)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholarsEnjoy the show? How 'bout a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐review?
Have you ever noticed the power the piano holds in horror films? From its haunting minor or off-key melodies that evoke anxiety and fear to its imposing presence symbolizing intimidation in the Gothic, the piano serves as a captivating character in itself. In this 88th episode (no coincidence!) we look more closely at how this seemingly elegant instrument becomes a sinister force of anxiety and fear in the world of horror, 'playing' on our anxieties of performance, class, and ableism.*This episode contains spoilers for: The Beast with Five Fingers (1946)House (1977) - https://archive.org/details/house_202104Interview with the Vampire (1994)Audition (1999)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholarsEnjoying the show? Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review to help us reach more of the horror community!
Iranian-American sci-fi author Reza Rajebi (pen. Daiko Hazhir) joins us to explore the thin, often terrifying line between imagined monsters and real-world horrors. Get a mini lesson in Iranian culture, an overview of the brutal realities of the U.S.-Iran conflict, and also a reminder of the internal conflict Iran now faces with itself. We also discuss the historical role of repression, exile, the next regime, the resilience of youth, and the role of storytelling and art in surviving and resisting oppressive power. Reza shares deeply personal reflections on watching the conflict between his two home countries and how that tension inspires him to write and read to find the answers we all need for humanity to evolve toward peace. The Exorcist (1973)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholarsThank you in advance for your stellar, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review!
We’re meeting the moment that is 2025, where the fight against power seems to be playing out both in the streets and on our screens. Together we'll dissect the subgenre, of "Eat-the-Rich" horror that oozes out much more when there's unrest among the common people, and more tax breaks for the already-wealthy. Let's talk about standout horror stories that call out billionaire greed, the link between wealth and corruption, and how the working class often steps in as the unlikely hero. And of course, we’re looking back to history and our long-standing tradition of mocking the egos of the rich and powerful because, let’s be honest, grotesque upper-class antics have actually been satire gold since Ancient Greece. So, if you’re guilty of rooting for the downfall of characters from White Lotus, Succession, The Menu, or Bodies Bodies Bodies check out this episode for more on how we got here, where the genre might be going, and why it matters right now. Society (1989)Satanic Panic (2019)The Menu (2022)Bodies, Bodies, Bodies (2022)Fresh (2022)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholarsEnjoy the show? Trade ya for a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐review!
Mind-bending and culture-crossing things are happening in Indigenous horror and sci-fi literature and film today and we need to know more!If you've never explored this creepy corner of our genre before, let's get started with acclaimed author Drew Hayden Taylor.In this special Canada Day episode, we attempt to unravel the intertwining themes of culture, monsters, and storytelling through the lens of native literature.Drew helps us navigate how these tales of terror and monsters reflect the realities of colonialism and appropriation, shaping narratives that challenge conventions. Join our discussion on how Indigenous authors continue to move past trauma into a new era of narrative that pushes the boundaries of future possibilities while honouring the rich history of Indigenous pasts.*No spoilers in this episodeDrew Hayden Taylor's Books we mention:The Night Wanderer (2007)Take Us to Your Chief (2016)Me Tomorrow: Indigenous Views on the Future (2021)Anthology:Zegaajimo: Indigenous Horror Fiction ed. Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm and Nathan Adler (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
In this episode, we trace the rise (and backlash) of the Manic Pixie Dream Girl trope and explores why this character rarely survives in horror. Unlike the indie rom-coms that birthed her, horror has no use for a paper-thin catalyst character. Here, the “manic” gets dialed up to maniacal, the “dream” turns nightmare, and instead of saving sad boys, she’s reclaiming her own narrative or getting messily destroyed in the process.We’ll talk final girls, feminine rage, and what happens when you give the quirky side character (ahem) 'teeth'. Because in horror, this adorable psychopath is NOT your muse—she’s your reckoning.*This episode has no real spoilers, but here are some of the films we discuss:Carrie (1976)The Fifth Element (1997)Bride of Chucky (1998)House of 1000 Corpses (2003)The Loved Ones (2009)Jennifer's Body (some spoilers here, kinda) (2009)A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)Ingrid Goes West (2017)The Babysitter (2017)The Babysitter 2: Killer Queen (2020)The Last Girl in Soho (2021)Pearl (2022)Maxxine (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
In this episode we are steeped in spooky adventures as therapist and author, Chad Scott, shares his insights and unforgettable experiences at haunting cemeteries and captivating locations steeped in history. Not only that, but good news for us frequent travellers of darkness: Chad explains how visiting historical sites can rival psychedelic drug effects in addressing mental health challenges like anxiety and PTSD. We learn how confronting the darker aspects of our cultural past can profoundly affect our emotions and mindset, not only for us history buffs, but for everyone seeking solace in understanding tragic narratives. Join us as we reveal the transformative power of dark tourism on our psyche!💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars and Chad at @drchadscott💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Welcome to our wrap-up of Zombie Awareness Month! In this finale episode, we dissect the dark tech world of zombie data, zombie businesses, and zombie networks and how these lurk in the shadows of our modern society. This special episode is a true reflection of the impact of zombies in our culture and how we’ve incorporated them in everyday speech to truly bring them to…life! Discover how zombies have influenced our language, risen Napster from its digital grave, and sparked conversations about cyberattacks! Join us as we reflect on our month-long series exploring the rich history of zombies—from early depictions to their cultural phenomenon today. Prepare for a brain-stirring experience!*This episode contains spoilers for :The Revolt of the Zombies (1936)Continue the conversation with us on Patreon. Join just in time for our ALL ZOMBIE THEMED Spooky Salon on Wednesday May 28th, 2025. patreon.com/spookyscholars💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
For our third installment in our series for Zombie Awareness Month we look at more ways that the zombies have shaped our culture. Journey back with us to 17th/18th colonial France to uncover how Voodoo spirituality transformed this infamous monster from folklore to film. We’ll trace the zombie’s impact through history and dissect its pop culture icon status, including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and its unforgettable contribution to the zombie phenomenon and to the history of the documentary. Whether you’re a zombie film aficionado or a dark history buff, this episode will reveal layers you’ve never considered before. Join us on this spine-tingling journey and gain a deeper understanding of why the zombie continues to haunt our collective imagination. HINT: Because they're us!....💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Join us as we journey through the last three 'Dead' films by the legendary George Romero, uncovering their sharp political commentary on a post-9/11 world. From "Land " to "Survival" to "Diary," we experience Romero's clever use of zombies to confront societal fears and anxieties that plagued the 2010s. Discover how Romero’s work encapsulated the struggles of our times, blending terror with relevance. If you're intrigued by horror's deeper meanings and the power of film as a mirror to society this finale to a two part series will pick at your braiiinnnnsss!*This episode contains spoilers for:Land of the Dead (2005)Survival of the Dead (2007)Diary of the Dead (2009)Night of the Living Dead (1968)Night of the Living Dead (1990)White Zombie (1932)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
In this first gruesome episode in our zombie movie series for Zombie Awareness Month (yes, it’s a real thing!) we’re looking at none other than George Romero’s 'Dead' series: Night of the Living Dead (1968), Dawn of the Dead (1978), and Day of the Dead (1985).We'll dive into how each entry builds upon one another, highlighting and strengthening a stance and cultural commentary on important socio-political themes like race, media, war, government and the patriarchal family structure.We’re taking a BIG zoom out at the impact of Romero’s ideas on the world of zombies we know today and how our modern society is only a slow zombie walk away from where we were when thee films were first released upon the world!You can’t miss this primer episode that kicks off the festivities for Zombie Awareness! 🧟➡️ Make sure you’re in the Patreon Spooky Space to have your say, leave your thoughts, comments, and your favourite zombie movie moments all month long!Night of the Living Dead (1968)Dawn of the Dead (1978) Day of the Dead (1985) 💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Just when you thought horror couldn't get more political, we join the fight against climate change!Bobby Donohue is the creator and host of Planet Bonehead, where horror characters are part of fun, unforgettable lessons for kids (and horror nerds) about one of the scariest realities we face—climate change!Bobby shares how he sees horror and monsters as a way to keep the conversation on climate change from going stale, right when we need everyone to stand up and more people to get into green tech and be part of the solution.Bobby’s work combining beloved characters and scientific innovation is helping to ensure kids (and grown-ups!) grasp the seriousness of our planet's plight without too much doom and gloom.Along the way we discuss the impact of modern politics on climate change and how creativity and entertainment is needed more than ever. Join us and explore the terror and teamwork required to fight for our home planet...until it's too late!*There are no real spoilers in this episode but we suggest the Mad Max franchise as companion watching. It pairs well with our discussion on desertification.@PlanetBonehead💀💀Follow The Spooky Scholars on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join our ongoing conversation with our #horrorcommunity in the LIVE salon spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Ever wondered what it's like to escape a religious cult? Have you ever been curious about why so many horror movies feature cults and how that reflects our real anxieties of being duped?In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the harrowing experiences of an ex-cult member and co-host of the hit podcast, Cultimatum. Melody, an ex-member of the House of Yahweh cult, along with her co-host, Andrew, reveal the secretive nature of cult culture, rules, and the profound impact of years spent under the control of a doomsday cult.Plus, discover the red flags to look out for and the psychological toll cults can take on regular, smart people who might just be looking for support. If you're curious about the truth behind religious cults, doomsday cults and the newly terrifying 'digital cults' this is a must-listen. Join me and the hosts of the Cultimatum Podcast, Melody and Anonymous Andrew for shocking revelations about loyalty, fear, and the incredible journey of self-discovery after cult life.*Episode may contain spoilers for:Escaping Twin Flames (2023) ➡️ Cultimatum podcast 🎙️Please follow the show(s) and leave reviews! 🌟💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
In this BONUS EPISODE on retrofuturism we dive back in to the fascinating intersection of old-fashioned aesthetics and futuristic dreams in the dystopian series, Fallout.We look at how the show places the past on a pedestal in the shelters from the uniformity to the propaganda. But then, what is the message on the surface? How are we to see the decay of vintage designs? Are we still yearning for the past or is this world of 2161 warning us that progress can all be undone? *This bonus episode may contain spoilers for Fallout (but I try to avoid them)💀Join the monthly horror community meetup in the Spooky Space at spookyscholars.com💀Get more horror recommendations at horrorhelpline.substack.com⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 💀Please leave a review because you love telling people what you really think! 🖤
Retrofuturism is an art form, a philosophy but it’s found its way into film as a subgenre of science fiction. Think spacecraft and high technology mixed with mid 20th century 'values' like traditional gender roles and life before the civil rights act.While sci-fi is horror’s nerdy sister, retro futurism is at odds with both of us in its conservatism and anti-progressive agenda.So what are the elements of retrofuturism we need to look out for? How is retrofuturism promoting a conservative mindset under the radar and how can we protect ourselves from becoming enamoured by its nostalgic aesthetic? How are sci-fi movies with a mid 20th century vibe different from retrofuturism? And what’s the deal with sex work in the 'nostalgic future'?In this episode we look at the implications of viewing the past as better than now and the dangers of believing that what's behind us is better than where we’re going. *This episode contains some spoilers for:Spider Baby (1967)Soylent Green (1973)Cowboy Bebop [series] (2021)Bladerunner (1982)You might also like:Episode 52 | Bubblegum DystopiaJoin the conversation for more horror & shownotes over on patreon.com/spookyscholarsShow info and more about your Horror Headmistress, Ashe Woodward, at spookyscholars.com
Are your favourite comic book characters being altered to fit political agendas? Join me and comic book store owner, Michael Storm, to explore how politics and censorship shape the superhero narratives we've come to love. Discover the hidden battles between comic creators and the Hollywood (read: MCU) elite. Learn more about what's at stake, what we might lose of traditional comic book culture to new technology, but also what is great news about the next wave and new generation of comic book appreciators. *This episode has no spoilers. Find Michael at:amazingfantasies.comtowardanarchy.com💀💀Follow US on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Today I’m talking with horror author Michael Harbron of the Interview with the Devil series. Writing religious, supernatural horror takes time and creepy, deep dive research. So not only do we discuss his chilling six-book (so far) series, but we also talk about Satan himself and the very real and growing attraction to The Satanic Temple. *no worries - there are no real spoilers in this episode. >michaelharbron.com>supporting listener businesses: thesmelloffear.com💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Horror may be about darkness and death, but spring is about light and life. So what happens when horror comes in with its version of doom for this time of year? What kind of uncomfortable tension are we in for?What's the deal with Satanic baby movies? In this episode we look at films with a big spring theme: Babies! How does horror feature pregnancy, birth, RE-birth and the role of women and mothers. We also get curious to answer why baby horror can give anyone the creeps, whether you have your own little demons or not.Listen in as we creep cribside for a look into the tiny terror of... BABIES! Eraserhead (1977)Immaculate (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Kevin Bacon may not be the quintessential horror star but he does love horror and has quite a few great horror titles to his name. In this special episode we're following the name of Kevin Bacon down a trail of horror movies in the game, Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon: Horror Edition. We're trying to get from horror movies ONLY to a Kevin Bacon horror in six steps.AND! We try to see how many degress THIS SHOW is from Kevin Bacon - and (HINT HINT) it's LESS than 6!*This episode may contian spoilers for:Satan's School for Girls (1973)Stir of Echoes (1999)Hauntology (2024)💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars
Reading is political. Horror is political. So we put these lovebirds together in this episode where I look at the true reasons for book bans, the importance of censorship but also freedom of expression in the horror community. I'm joined by Paul Cram, an actor with several horror credits who is in it for the art of the story. Learn about what inspires his art and how his search for community led him to create The Men Who Read Book Club, a non-fiction book club that has brought him to connect with men who are invested in discussions about masculinity, queerness, the darker things in life, but also friendship and support. *This episode may contain spoilers for:The Soviet Sleep Experiment (2019)The Jane Austen Book Club (2007) 💀💀Follow us on Instagram @spooky.scholars💀Join the ongoing conversation and LIVE salon each month at spookyscholars.com🖤Full show notes at patreon.com/spookyscholars